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Thoughts on the Bible Readings (1 Samuel 19; Isaiah 63; Matthew 8) for July 7th

1Samuel 19 speaks of king Saul's plotting to kill David. When Jonathan hears of this he refuses to believe that his father, Saul, would do this to faithful David. Jonathan is able to temporarily dissuade his father from carrying through Saul's intent to destroy David. Jonathan brings about a period of respite between Saul and his son-in-law. Verses 8-10 speak of another battle between Israel and the Philistines. Saul again moved with envy cast his javelin to slay David. David escapes and flees from Saul's presence. Verses 11-17 describe David as a fugitive in his own house, where Saul believes David has been trapped. David and Michal plan David's escaping from the city and her placing pillows of goats' hair in David's bed and covering them to pretend that David is sick in his bed. Saul commands his soldiers to bring David to him in his bed that Saul might slay David. Michal lies to her father saying that David threatened to kill her. David flees to Samuel in Ramah. Both Samuel and David anticipate Saul's wrath and take refuge in Naioth. Saul hears of this and comes with his army to destroy David. Saul had sent two armed contingents before coming himself. But each of these groups including the king himself were prevented from apprehending David by God's spirit coming on them and causing them to prophesy. It became a perplexing proverb: "Is Saul also among the prophets?" 
Isaiah 63 is about the day of Yahweh's vengeance and the remembrance of His mercy. Verses 1-6 speak of a period of time after the Lord Jesus Christ's return to earth. This period is described in Revelation 10 as the March of the rainbowed angel. The time is after the invasion of Israel by the northern confederacy. Jesus and his saints will go into the ancient region of Edom to subdue and convert the Arab peoples into accepting Israeli Jews fleeing from the foe that has conquered their land and is systematically imprisoning Jews. Our Lord Jesus has his clothing of a red colour being stained with the blood of his enemies. He makes war in righteousness with his foes. The figure of warfare here and in Joel 3:13 is likened to the crushing of grapes in a winepress. Verse 4 tells us that the vengeance of our God is for a day, but His mercy and redemption is for a year. His wrath is limited but His grace and mercy is abundant: Exodus 34 verses :5-7; Psalm 103 verses 1-19; James 3 verses 12-13. Verse 5 tells us that our Lord Jesus only the Saviour empowered by His Father. And so our Lord is righteous in the exercise of his judgment. Verses 7-14 tell of Yahweh's remembrance of His mercy to His people Israel. Verses 7-9 recount the evidence of the Almighty's exercising His redeeming mercy when He delivered His people from Egypt. Verses 10-14 say that despite His love they constantly rebelled throughout their wilderness wanderings. Despite the grief that this caused their Father. Yet despite this He brought them through the Red Sea and into the Land promised to their faithful patriarchal fathers and through this gained renown and a famous Name: Yahweh. Verses 15-19 is a prayer of the prophet for Israel's Sovereign to again show mercy to His people. His stedfast love and compassion will compel the LORD to deliver His children. Israel had been disciplined for their waywardness but will be won over by the love of their Father and will be brought home from exile to be Yahweh's people.
 
In Matthew 8 verses 1-4 Jesus cures a leper. This chapter shows Jesus' authority in both word and deed. The leper knew Jesus had the power to heal. The only question was: "Would Jesus heal him?" Our Lord cured the leper and sent him to the priests to testify that Jesus could do what the Law couldn't do: Romans 8 verses1-6. Verses 5-13 speak of the faith of a Roman centurion. He asked the Lord Jesus Christ to heal his servant. The Roman asked  Jesus to simply speak the word and the servant was to be healed. Verse 5 says that the centurion, being a man commanded by Rome, saw Jesus as the empowered servant of God - Jesus' Father through whom salvation comes - and with divine power and authority to heal. Our Lord Jesus said that this type of faith exceeds that of the nation who claimed to be God's children. Jesus declares in verses 10-13 that such faith showed that man to be a true son of Abraham. The Lord's words are reminiscent of the promise that God made to Abraham in Genesis 13 verses 14-16. By contrast the lack of faith of the chosen people would see them excluded from gaining the benefits of the Abrahamic promise. Verses 14-17 describe many miracles fulfilling the words of Isaiah 53 verses 3-4. Verses 18-22 tell disciples that the cost of following the Lord Jesus Christ is to forsake all other pursuits now and start that following of Jesus immediately. Verses 23-27 tell of Jesus' authority over the elements of nature in calming a storm. The cures he performs show him to be the Son of God who can save life. Verses 28-34 describe the curing of two demented men. We need to have our minds healed from the madness that is endemic in human nature and only our Lord and his Father can do that. We will be partially cured now as we heed the words of life and completely cured when by God's grace we are given an immortal body incapable of sinning.Thoughts on the Bible Readings

Thoughts on the Bible Readings (1 Samuel 18; Isaiah 62; Matthew 7) for July 6th

1 Samuel 18 speaks of David's deep friendship with Jonathan - Saul's son - his appointment to high office in Saul's army; and of David's marriage to Michal - Saul's younger daughter. Verses 1-5 tell of the strong bond that was forged between Jonathan and David following the victory of faith which had allowed David to slay Goliath the giant of Gath. The two friends - David and Jonathan - were one in their attitude towards their God.  Let's highly prize and value true friendships as these can assist us in walking faithfully towards the kingdom of God. Jonathan made a covenant with David and gave to David his bow - which was Jonathan's prized weapon of choice - and the royal robe which he wore. Saul retained David as one of his army captains. Verses 6-9 describe Saul's envy of David who was praised by the Israeli women above Saul their king. David was under Saul's watchful and critical eye. Saul believed that David was seeking to usurp him. Verses 10-16 describe a foul mood overtaking Saul and his unsuccessful attempt to kill David with the king's javelin. The LORD's protection surrounded David. David's behaviour caused Saul to be in awe of David. In verses 17-31 Saul, knowing of the love of David for Saul's younger daughter Michal, seeks to have David slain in battle by the Philistines by asking a dowry from David of two hundred foreskins of the  Philistines. What treachery to use a ruse of vengeance against God's enemies as an excuse to eliminate the king's rival. Likewise how wonderful it is when our lives bare testimony to our being the children of our Heavenly Father. 
 
Isaiah 62 describes Zion's coming salvation. Verses 1-5 speak of the prophet's prayer for his beloved Jerusalem. It is a prayer for her destiny to be delivered by her faithful and Almighty Sovereign. Jerusalem will be a city of truth and righteousness as Zechariah 8 verses14-23 speaks. The terms used in verses 4-5 describing the fruitfulness of the land are used of Hezekiah and his wife Hephzibah. In verses 6-7 the prophet asks all the faithful to copy their faithful king who despite settling watchmen on Jerusalem's walls he continues to pray and trust in the Almighty and counsels his people to do likewise. Verses 8-9 tell of his confidence in the LORD to deliver and exalt His people during the glorious reign of His Son in the near future. Verses 10-12 describe the time when Yahweh elevates Zion to the capital of the world: Isaiah 2:1-5; Jeremiah 3 verses 16-17. The people of the LORD will be blessed and all nations will come to Jerusalem to worship in sincerity and truth.
 
The judgment mentioned in Matthew 7 verses 1-5 refers to critical fault finding in others as opposed to the need to show discernment . We must judge righteous judgment: we are commanded to do so. Verse 6 tells disciples to not share the precious knowledge of God with mockers who will never change. Verses 7-11 tells us that the askers will receive; the seekers will find; and to the knockers doors will be opened. This is because our Heavenly Father is faithful to His promises and will only give good gifts to His children. In verse 12 our Lord highlights the golden rule - do to others what you would wish them to do for you. Verses 13-14 tell us to strive to please God. Diligence must characterise the disciple's life. Without diligence we will easily lose our way. Verses 15-20 teach us what type of tree we are; for the fruits of our lives will be seen in the fruits of our behaviour. Verses 21-23 are sobering thoughts which teach us that is not what we say that will save us - but rather how we live. Our Lord only knows those who understand him and love and live as he lived: There was a popular song many years ago called: "To know him (Jesus) is to love him". Our Lord Jesus knows those who love him and he reciprocates that love to them. Matthew 25 verses 34-36. Read aloud and pause and ponder. Verses 24-27 tell of two builders - one wise, the other foolish - each one chose a different foundation on which to build. The wise man undertook the long and laborious task of digging deep and founding his house on the rock: Matthew 16 verses 13-20; 1 Corinthians 3:10-17. The foolish builder lazily chose the quick and easy way of building on sand. When the waters and tempests and afflictions of trials tested the stability of the structures, the houses, house on the rock stood firm, but the house on the sand was swept away. The Lord Jesus Christ says that wisdom lies in listening to his words and acting on them. Only doers of the Word and not simply forgetful hearers are founded upon the rock: James 1:19-27. Verses 28-29 speak of Jesus' authority in his speech in contrast to the scribes who quoted each other rather than speak with a "Thus says the Word of God".

**The Life of Christ #91 – "The Lost Brother" by John Martin | The Prodigal Son’s Return (Luke 15)**

A @Christadelphians Video: **📝 Video Description:** **✨ A revealing deep dive into Jesus’ most beloved parable—the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32).** In this thought-provoking talk, John Martin explores the younger brother’s rebellion, the father’s radical forgiveness, and the older brother’s struggle with grace. Discover how this ancient story speaks directly to our lives today. **🔔 Love Bible teachings like this? Subscribe + click the bell to receive notifications for new videos!** **📜 Key Bible Verses (Emoji-Categorized):** 🕊️ **Luke 15:11-32** – The Prodigal Son’s Journey 🐑 **Luke 15:1-10** – The Lost Sheep & Lost Coin 💖 **Romans 2:4** – God’s Kindness Leads to Repentance ✝️ **1 John 1:9** – Confession & Forgiveness **⏳ Full Chapter Timestamps (56-Minute Breakdown):** 00:00 – Introduction** (Why This Parable Matters) 06:15 – Part 1: The Younger Brother’s Rebellion** (Leaving Home) 14:30 – Part 2: Consequences of Sin** (Hitting Rock Bottom) 22:45 – Part 3: The Turning Point** (True Repentance) 30:10 – Part 4: The Father’s Unconditional Love** (Running to Restore) 38:25 – Part 5: The Older Brother’s Resentment** (Grace vs. Legalism) 46:50 – Part 6: Modern Applications** (How This Story Changes Us) 53:20 – Conclusion & Final Reflection** **📌 Tags:** Bible study, John Martin, Life of Christ, Prodigal Son, Luke 15, Parables of Jesus, Christian teaching, Gospel message, Repentance, Forgiveness, God's love, Lost Brother, Grace, Biblical wisdom **💬 Discussion Prompt:** *"Do you relate more to the younger brother, the father, or the older brother? Let’s discuss in the comments!"*

Thoughts on the Bible Readings (1 Samuel 17; Isaiah 61, Matthew 6) for July 5th

In all 3 readings the contrast between perception and reality is shown to be a mighty chasm, which fleshly thinking invariably gets wrong every time. 
There are 3 words in the Hebrew for man: the most frequently used'Adam' (the man of dust); secondly 'Enosh' (sick mortal, weak,frail man); and lastly, 'Ish' (mighty man, man of renown'). All 3 are used in 1 Samuel 17 - the warriors of Israel are the third word(so is Jesse), as is the Philistine 'champion' (Goliath). The third word predominates the chapter until David speaks of Goliath as an Adam (v32). Saul answered David by referring to the colossus as the Ish he seemingly projected. David's rejoinder to Saul indicated Yahweh's ever present aid and deliverance for David from the lion and the bear and assured the king that the uncovenanted Philistine would be equally dispatched. The victory being assured because "the living God" was in heaven and His Israel on earth. The Almighty's beloved servant prevailed with sling and stone and carried the severed head to Jerusalem where Gog's multitude will likewise in the near future be carcasses on the ground (Ezekiel 39). Psalms commemorative of this victory and penned by David indicate what his motivations and thoughts were in Psalm 8. The Hebrew superscription to this Psalm is "Muth Laben" indicating on 'the death of the Champion', an alternative translation of the Hebrew is "on the death of the victorious son", ie our Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus is the Adam to whom the Almighty would give the dominion planned for the Adam at Creation. This Adam would be given the dominion over all flesh: Genesis 1:26; Psalm 8. This is what the Apostle Paul is talking of when he speaks of "the all things" LXX 'ta panta' in Colossians 1. This particularly speaks of the slaying of the enslaver of the race; the undefeated Champion over every single person until our Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of Man' came triumphantly: Colossians 2:9-15. Also the entire 144th Psalm tells us the same. It tells us that although both David and our Lord Jesus knew the frailty of their estate Yahweh of armies would prevail over flesh and "the Adam" would eventually conquer sin and death.
Isaiah 61 tells of Yahweh's blessing and favour to Zion through the LORD sending His beloved Son to them promising them restoration and healing through Messiah, his gospel message and restoration and healing through the offering of himself. The early verses are cited by our Lord Jesus in his home town synagogue in Nazareth - Luke 4 verse 16:30 - where he declared "today is this Scripture fulfilled in your ears". He has only quoted to the first half of verse 2 since Jesus ministry was to offer hope to the repentant who embraced the gospel message. The "day of vengeance" would come upon those who rejected the message in 70 AD (to the Jews) and the entire world at Jesus' second coming. This earned the ire of the townsfolk where our Lord had grown up in their midst and worked in their midst. The people of Nazareth attempted to kill him by casting him from the precipice. It was this Scripture that sustained John the Baptist as he languished in the prison (Machaerus) of Herod Antipas. Verses 3-7 describe the blessings which will flow to Zion when Jesus Messiah reigns over them at the appointed time. Verses 8-9 tell of their Sovereign's call on Israel to turn from their hypocritical ways and embrace the paths of the LORD. All the world will then acknowledge that nation as the blessed children of God. Verses 10-11 tell of the prophet rejoicing in the Almighty Creator and His plan to bring righteousness and blessing to the entire earth. 
In Matthew 6 Jesus warns against 3 forms of showy piety prevalent amongst the Pharisees of his day: conspicuous giving of alms (charity, prayers designed to impress others rather than heartfelt requests to the Father and attention-seeking fasting. Matthew 6 verses 1-6 points out that charitable deeds must have their focus on the receiver and not the giver - and the reward being future not present. The same attitude must characterise our prayers: verses 5-6. Jesus then provides a model prayer in which the reverence of God and His Name - Yahweh our Father -  being foremost. Then His Kingdom sought when His will is done. Next petition for needs (not wants), the forgiveness of our sins (measured and determined of our Father by our capacity to forgive others) and then deliverance from "the evil" - ie our nature's provocation within us to sin. Verses 16-18 advises on fasting: a preparation of the mind to serve God, not an opportunity to impress others with our religious dedication. Verses 19-24 tell us that the heart is a magnet. What we treasure most will be measured by what occupies our thinking most. Don't pretend we are serving God when our minds (hearts) are preoccupied with ourselves - ie covetousness which is idolatry (Colossians 3verses 5). Verses 25-34 speak of the treasure we should seek: freedom from all anxiety is known by our God who loves us and will provide all that we need to bring us into His Kingdom. Our Father has shown us His majesty and power to bestow blessings and beauty through His creative acts. The last two verses of the chapter establish what must be the primary purpose of our lives: honouring our Father and His Son by setting our affection on things above. Slowly read these aloud. Pause and ponder. One day at a time, the Father has given us. We leave the worry for tomorrow to Him.

Thoughts on the Bible Readings (1 Samuel 16, Isaiah 60, Matthew 5) for July 4th

God sent Samuel to Bethlehem to anoint a replacement for Saul, the failure who sat on the throne, from among Jesse's sons. The elders of the town trembled after hearing of Samuel's summary dispatch of Agag and asked him if he had come in peace. He replied, 'yes'. One by one the seven older brothers pass before him - each one impressive in his features; only for Samuel to be told not to look on the outward appearance (the basis of human judgment), but rather on the heart, which is Yahweh's basis of measurement. At last the youngest, who was not thought worthy of being presented, was brought, chosen and anointed. David was invited to soothe Saul's melancholic moods by playing his harp.
Isaiah in chapter 60 the time of Zion's future glory, when the wealth of the nations will pour into her (Psalm 102 verses12-22). Verses 1-3 describe the LORD bringing glory from gloom to the long downtrodden nation of Israel. We are living close to the commencement of that epoch as our above quote from Psalm 102 reveals for Yahweh has restored Israel to their homeland. He has once more given them Jerusalem. Verses 4-9 tell of the flowing of the wealth of the nations into Zion. We are told that many Arab nations will be to the forefront of helping Zion, as will Great Britain through her navy. The maritime power of Tarshish (Britain) will be at the forefront of Zion's restoration. Verses 10-14 speak of the prominence that Israel will experience and those who afflicted her will coming begging for mercy. Verses 15-16 is an acknowledgment of the Almighty's role in Jerusalem's elevation. Verses 17-22 outline the abundance of blessings that will flow to her as she is blessed in Messiah's kingdom. Just as in Revelation 21 Jerusalem's glory will be the LORD God Almighty and his radiant Son.
Matthew 5-7 is called "the sermon on the mount". Note from the start that after an arduous climb away from the multitude Jesus prepared a series of talks designed for disciples. It begins with a composite picture of our Lord's own character as the blueprint for all true citizens of Zion. There are 8 beatitudes: verses 2-12 - and the reward for each is the same- just expressed in different terms- that is to be blessed with a place in Messiah's kingdom. The 8 blessings - beatitudes- find their antitheses in the curses, or woes upon the Scribes and Pharisees in Matthew 23. Within the 8th blessing (Greek "kairos" - a happiness borne in the knowledge of our Father's overriding love and care for His children) there is a ninth, for those who then heard and were moved to respond to the gracious words which they heard. Verses 13-6 give 2 metaphors which describe the disciple's purpose - to shine forth the gospel to others - and who the disciple truly is - a sincere follower of our Lord Jesus Christ. Verses 17-20 tell us of Christ's mission and as his followers our duty to develop a righteousness of the heart and not one of outward appearance to others. Verses 21-26 tell us to control anger and to reconcile problems, not stir up strife. Verses 27-32 deal with lust and difficulties within marriage. Verses 33-37 ask disciples to tell the truth and avoid oaths. Verses 38-42 ask us to avoid retaliation. Verses 43-48 instruct us to be as our Father and show love at all times. We note in all these words the authority of our Lord: "but I say unto you". This contrasts with the Jewish leaders who would quote one or another rabbinical authority: Matthew 7:28. In all of these segments our Lord goes beyond what the Law requires and goes straight to the issues of the heart. Let us also learn that this is how we should look at the Word of God and the words of His Son. The fifth chapter concludes with an appeal for the Father's children to appreciate and emulate His character (verses 43-48).

Thoughts on the Bible Readings (1 Samuel 15, Isaiah 59, Matthew 3, 4) for July 3rd

In Exodus 17 verses15-16 Yahweh declares that a banner would be lifted up proclaiming perpetual war against Amalek, since they had continued to snipe at Israel from the time of their departure from Egypt. Psalm 105 verse 37 indicated that when Israel left Egypt they were emboldened and triumphant; but as the Exodus reading indicated became disheartened by the guerrilla tactics of Amalek. Consequently Saul is given a charge by God to eradicate Amalek. This Saul did with horrendous results failing to complete what the LORD commanded. This failure led to God’s promising to take the kingdom from Saul. Saul justifies this failure by rationalisation. That is always a disastrous course. God castigates Saul through the prophet Samuel’s denunciation from his Sovereign. Pause and slowly read aloud the classic words of verses 22-23. Meditate its meaning for us. We do well to note that the failure to exterminate Amalek cost Israel dearly in the past (Haman was an Agagite Esther 3:1 – compare Baalam’s prophecy Numbers 24 verse 7, and 20 verses 7-10, Ezekiel 38verse 2, 16-18 39 verses 1-16, Revelation 20 verses 7-10) and Gog will in the future invade Israel. Gogue is derived from Agag. Samuel provides Saul with a salutary lesson.
Isaiah 59 verses1-13 outline Israel’s incorrigible behaviour, and by extension all possessing human nature, thus bringing inevitable judgment. The metaphors that are used graphically illustrate Israel’s inability to escape from the dilemma with which they were trapped by their passions – and by extension every human being. Verses 14-20 describe how their Sovereign would firstly judge and then redeem mankind. We give thanks to our God and Yahweh’s arm, strengthened and extended, to bring us the sinless Saviour Jesus – who overcame sin and established a basis for our forgiveness. The Almighty has provided for us a standing with our Omnipotent Creator through the forgiveness of our sins. We become the Almighty’s grateful children. Verse 20 is cited in Acts 3 verse 26. Read the last seven verses in Acts 3 and contemplate their importance to you. Verse 21 reveals that Yahweh has not only brought us to Himself, but He also continues to support us daily through His spirit Word. This will be with us throughout all time until His Son returns: Hebrews 13 verses 5-8.
Matthew 3 presents Jesus as the Messiah, totally compliant to the Father’s righteous requirement acknowledging human nature to be rightly related to death and our God’s gracious forgiveness and offer of resurrection to eternal life to those identifying with our Lord’s sacrifice by submitting to baptism (Romans 6). Verses 1-6 tell of the message, appearance and mission of John the Baptist. John commenced his preaching with the Gospel message from Isaiah 40. Verses 7-10 tell of the rulers’ hypocritical response to John and his scathing denunciation of them. He speaks of the divine judgment that was to be brought upon them and their nation. Verses 11-12 he says that the Messiah will come to complete God’s mission: Malachi 3 verses1-5. Verses 13-17 describe Jesus’ baptism and His Father’s testimony approving His Son by word and sign.In chapter 4 Matthew shows the Son of God triumphant over temptation through the sustaining power inherent in God’s Word. The Lord Jesus was tempted in all points like his brethren, as Hebrews 4 verses 14-16 and 1 John 2 verses 15-17 reveal. Genesis 3 shows each of the same elements of temptation of Adam and Eve as 1 John outlined. But unlike Adam and Eve’s temptations our Lord’s came, as Mark 1 tells, surrounded by now savage beasts; and in a cursed wilderness – not a wonderful paradise (garden). Jesus was assailed in all the categories of sin with which we are assaulted. But unlike us he emerged from the temptations triumphant having overcome by his faith in the Word of his Father. Jesus’ divine begettal gave him a mind capable of being totally immersed in his Father’s empowering Word. Thus arming him adequately for the sore temptations with which he struggled. All his answers were from Deuteronomy 6 and 8 demonstrating that he had learned the lessons of trial during 40 days in the wilderness. Israel failed to learn these wilderness lessons during their 40 years within their journey to the Promised Land as Hebrews 3 and 4 teaches us. The chapter finishes with the great work in Messiah’s Galilean ministry, as prophesied in Isaiah 9:1-2.

Thoughts on the Bible Readings (1 Samuel 14, Isaiah 58, Matthew 1, 2) for July 2nd

In 1 Samuel 14 Jonathan and his armour bearer, in response to a God given sign, show immense courage by together discovering themselves to a Philistine fortress at Michmash and defeating it. The first strike of the two faithful Hebrew warriors was to destroy 20 of the foe inducing panic within the garrison- the great trembling referred to is a translation of the words meaning ‘a trembling from God’. The ensuing chaos turns soldier against soldier. Saul seizes the moment and, after foolishly uttering a self-centred oath, commands to immediately attack. Although Saul is victorious Yahweh would not answer him. Saul compounds his folly with yet another disgraceful response. The people are forced to unitedly negate Saul’s oath and save Jonathan from death. The chapter concludes with Saul and his valiant sons subduing many national enemies.
Isaiah, in chapter 58, outlines a nation which gave lip service to God but not from their hearts. The early verses of this chapter focus on fasting. Fasting can be of value in concentration of the mind on God. But it is of no value when those who observe it ritually forsake the principles of the Almighty. They spoke of the Sabbath and yet failed to comprehend what their Sovereign was teaching them – it was a day of support and burden lifting from those oppressed; a day of joy and not of self-affliction. If Israel embraced God’s values and practiced them then Yahweh would liberate them and cause them in their minds spiritually to soar into the heavenlies. Then their minds would harmonise with their Sovereign.
The New Testament opens by highlighting the promised seed, this is Jesus, central to the monumental Covenants around which much of the Old Testament is structured. Matthew 1 is the genealogy of Mary the mother of our Lord Jesus Christ through king David. Luke’s account of the genealogies of our Lord Jesus Christ in Luke 3 verses 23-38 is Joseph’s (Jesus’ stepfather’s)) lineage. Jesus’ ancestral line through his mother Mary – note Luke’s differs in that it gives Solomon as the progenitor of this line – who descended from David’s son Nathan. The story of Matthew 1 links Mary with four other stigmatised women (Tamar, Rahab, Ruth and Bathsheba), who, despite their public shame were, like Mary, outstanding women of faith. These women despite being stigmatised like Mary carried their scorn in their age just as our Lord Jesus Christ was accused of being born of doubtful legitimacy throughout his life. Jesus came into existence at the time of his birth. Prior to that time he had no existence; except that His Almighty Father had structured the whole creation around the coming of His Son. The name Jesus means “the salvation of Yahweh”, as Matthew 1verse 23 tells.
Matthew 2 describes the visit of the Magi and their costly gifts for the King of the Jews – a title that the Idumean Herod arrogated to himself – allowing us to date the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ to 6BC. Joseph, Mary and Jesus fled to Egypt in the fulfilment of prophecy (Hosea 11:1). The precious gifts of the wise men allowed Messiah’s family to subsist in Egypt until it was time to return to their place of residence in Nazareth upon the accession of Archelaus following the death of Herod the Great in 4BC.

Thoughts on the Bible Readings (1 Samuel 13, Isaiah 56, 57, Revelation 21-22) for July 1st

At 3,000. men Israel’s army was pitifully small. Only one third of these were with Jonathan, yet he courageously defeats a Philistine garrison at Geba for which Saul instantly claims the credit. The enraged enemy mass a huge army to crush the first sign of any resistance and march to Michmash for revenge striking terror into Saul’s men, who have began to scatter. Samuel had asked Saul to wait 7 days until he comes and offers the sacrifices. As his forces continue to shrink Saul’s patience fails and to embolden the remnants of his men he slays the offerings himself. No sooner has Saul done this than Samuel arrives to admonish Saul for his foolishness and his failure to trust the charge given to him. Saul seeks to justify his actions and Samuel tells him that the consequences of his folly would be the giving of the kingdom to another. Saul’s army had shrunk to one fifth its size. Nonetheless, with courage he faces and defeats a vastly numerically superior foe possessing but two swords with his group; he and Jonathan alone had them.
Isaiah 56 teaches us that God always intended to include foreigners ie non Jews in his plan of salvation. This was a great shock to the Jewish people who thought that the LORD was only interested in His people – Israel. Verses 1-8 speak of Yahweh giving His family NAME of the LORD to foreigners who chose to follow His ways. The eunuchs are particularly mentioned and this would prove a powerful motivation to the eunuch of Acts 8. God’s house would as Jesus quoted on his cleansing of the temple be a “house of prayer for all nations” – Matthew 21 verses 12-13. The Sabbath principle of ceasing from one’s own works and working the works of God Is clearly expressed in this chapter and will be expanded on in chapter 58. The remainder of the chapter in verses 9-12 denounces Israel’s corrupt and self serving leaders.Isaiah 57 contrasts the futility of idolatry with our Sovereign’s true contrite and humble supplicants. These alone know the secret of the LORD and of those with whom He can harmoniously dwell: within their hearts. Isaiah 57 verses14-15 – see also Isaiah 66 verses 1-2; James 4 verses 5-8; 1 Peter 5 verses5-6. By contrast the wicked can never find rest. Isaiah 57 verses :20-21. This completes the second section of Isaiah’s prophecy.
Revelation 21 provides a glimpse of the perfect state of the earth at the end of the kingdom age. The first 8 verses we see new heavens and earth since there is no longer any mortal population – no nations exist, as there is no more sea. As there is no more death it means there is no more sin. Finally, the pure in heart will see God (Matthew 5 verse 8). No man can see God and live Moses was told; this is not the case for the immortals. God’s people, Jews and Gentiles, will dwell with Him as the prophet Hosea had said. The sorrows of their struggles before attaining to the Divine nature have been forgotten with the tender scene of their loving Father wiping away all tears. Everything upon earth has been renewed and perfected. The One declaring these things is the Alpha – the first and increate – and as the Omega (the final letter of the 24 lettered Greek alphabet) the bringer to finality of all things; “God all in all” 1 Corinthians 15 verse28. Nothing that is morally corrupt is allowed in this perfected world. The vision of the new Jerusalem coming from God to earth is revealed in verses 9-27. It is described as a cube – perfect in each dimension. It is the 144,000 with the Lamb – 12 squared times 10 cubed. The Israel of God with admission gained via the 12 Apostolic gates each one based on a rare and precious gem. The transparent glass sea is indicative that there is no wickedness; only the tranquil calmness of full fellowship with the Almighty and His Son. This means there is no need of a priesthood, or Temple. No artificial light is required as the earth is full of the knowledge of the glory of Yahweh (Habakkuk 2:14). Revelation 22 backtracks to a vision of the kingdom age. There is seen a “wood (Greek “xulon”), or forest, of life on both sides of the pure river issuing from Messiah’s sanctuary. These trees bore 12 different types of fruits; and their leaves were the medicine for the healing of the nations – today 90% of medicines are derived from plants. As in Revelation 14 the faithful have their minds sealed by the Father’s Word. In addition to this encouraging vision verses 8-21 tell the faithful disciples that the coming of Jesus Christ is near and certain. The witnesses must faithfully guard the message from Messiah. John sought to worship the one – an angel – revealing that message to him, but was forbidden. Steadfastness in virtue must be maintained to receive the reward the Lamb will bring. The tree of Life from which Adam and Eve were separated after sinning is now open to the redeemed servants of Christ. Verse 15 exhorts us as disciples to practice truth and righteousness – there cannot be the Truth without individuals governing their lives by truth (Zechariah 8:16). Jesus describes himself as the root (origin, or source Micah 5 verse 2) and offspring (descendant) of David. Verses 17-19 are a final call for the thirsty seekers of immortality to respond (cp Isaiah 55verses 1-4). The Lord Jesus Christ says in verse 20 I am coming speedily; and John responds together in verse 21 with ourselves, “Even so, come, Lord Jesus. Amen (let it be so)”.

Thoughts on the Bible Readings (1 Samuel 11, 12, Isaiah 55, Revelation 19, 20) for June 30th

How interesting that Nahash, whose name means “snake” chooses to attack the town of Saul’s birth, and he allows them to live for 7 days providing they covenant with him to have their right eyes thrust out. This of course is highly symbolic of the lust of the eyes, characteristic of serpent thinking prevailing throughout 7,000 years until Yahweh’s sworn covenant to destroy the flesh is consummated (1 John 2 verses 15-17; Revelation 20). When Saul heard of it the spirit of God came upon him and like the Levite in Judges 19 verses 29-30 he cut an ox into 12 pieces and sent it throughout all Israel. The irony being twofold: a) the first act was an unjust revenge upon their wayward kinsfolk; and, b) it was this act that caused the parlous state of Benjamin, Saul’s tribe. Israel mustered and destroyed the foe. Now Saul’s supporters went to Gilgal emboldened and intent on punishing the former detractors, which Saul wisely prevented.In chapter 12 Samuel proclaims that he has entirely maintained justice during his judgeship. He recounts the LORD’s faithfulness in deliverance of His people in the 450 years of the Judges and tells them that it was not Samuel they were rejecting, but God. From verses 19-25 he says to them, that despite what has happened, he will continue to pray for them and urges them to serve Yahweh with all their hearts (v 20).
Isaiah commences his 55th chapter with the timeless plea to seek priceless ‘living waters’ (Psalm 42 verses 1-2; John 4 verses 10; 7:37-38; Revelation 7 verse 17; 22 verse 17). These waters flow from our Lord Jesus Christ- the cost is the laying down of our lives in following him, our captain cp Hebrews 2 verse 10; 12 verse 2). How sad the effort and expense undertaken for that which can never ultimately sustain (the lesson of the Manna Exodus 16 and Deuteronomy 8). Verses 6-9 ask us to seek Yahweh that He may be found of us when we realise the gulf between His thoughts and our own. The chapter concludes by explaining that the Almighty’s thoughts can only be found in His Word and by our consuming of this –1 Peter 1 verse 22-25.
In Revelation 19 we firstly read of rejoicing at the overthrowing of the Roman system. It is because the long awaited judgments have been consummated. The rejoicing is from the angelic host and those saints ruling in the new Messianic heavens. Verses 6-10 speak of the Marriage of the Lamb. It is now another step closer to the filling of the entire earth with the knowledge of the glory of Yahweh, symbolising the victory of the Lamb’s warfare. The fine linen is representative of “the righteous deeds of the saints”. We must, as the prospective bride of Christ, remain faithful so that at the time of our marriage to Christ we will be one with the Lord who we love. Verse 9 tells us what a blessing this will be. The Apocalypse speaks of 7 blessings. The angel who revealed this to the Apostle John refused John’s homage, as he says that he also has been faithfully contending and witnessing for Jesus; which he says, “is the spirit (or motivation) of prophecy”. Verses 11-21 describe the going forth in war of the rider on the white horse – symbolising the righteousness of the Lamb’s warfare. The saints with Christ are also mounted on white steads; as they, too, are “called, and chosen, and faithful”. The Lamb’s white robe had been dipped in blood indicating that the saints’ source of righteousness is the offering of their leader. And Christ’s source of victory is attributed to his divine Sonship and the empowering force of the Word of God. Christ’s furious judgment is represented by the treading of grapes in a winepress. The nations are described as the ravenous birds, who will be invited to feast on the Roman Church’s carcass. The total destruction of the Beast’s organisation is spoken of by their being cast into the consuming lake of fire. Chapter 20 of Revelation speaks of the events of the kingdom age – 1,000 years – termed the Millennium. The symbolic powers of sin are spoken of as being cast into a bottomless pit and chained for that term. There will be a releasing of all would be rebels at the end of the thousand years. The reason for this is to test the willing loyalty of the kingdom’s subjects. Service to God must always be on the basis of a choice made from a loving heart and not from fearful compulsion. The resurrection prior to the start of the Millennium will be of the responsible believers. From these the faithful will become the rulers of the Messianic Age. The rejected will be consigned to the “second death” from which there will be no raising. The subjects of the Millennium will be raised and judged at the end of the thousand years. The blessing upon the faithful believers of the first resurrection will be to make them king-priests (Revelation 5:9-10) ie corulers with Christ. A great white throne will be set up as the final tribunal for those who will die during the Millennium. Those adjudged to be faithful will swell the ranks of the immortals. Those who were not faithful will be consigned to sleep perpetually in the grave. Tomorrow’s readings in chapters 21-22 will show the scene of the Final Consolation.

Thoughts on the Bible Readings 1 Samuel 10, Isaiah 54, Revelation 17, 18 for June 29th

Samuel privately anoints Saul to be king and gives prophecies of significant events for that day. The first was to happen at Rachel’s tomb, she being the mother of Benjamin and therefore likewise an ancestor of Saul; where he would be told to return home as the asses had been found and lest his absence cause anxiety. Next at the oak of Tabor he would be given 3 goats, bread and wine – an indication that on the basis of sacrifice he would be invited into fellowship with God. This is followed by a later encounter with a company of the prophets, who Samuel had founded. This occurs near the Philistine garrison close to Saul’s home whence he would temporarily become as one of the prophets: indicating that God would support and bless the mighty undertaking laying before Saul. Later Saul was to meet Samuel at Gilgal, where he would be required to wait seven days until Samuel would come to offer sacrifices. Saul returns home and tells his uncle nothing of his anointing, nor coming sovereignty. The chapter concludes with Saul’s humility and public anointing and the mixed reactions to this.
Isaiah proclaims the need to expand Zion’s tent for she, just like barren Hannah, would embrace a numerous offspring; who as a fulfilment of the promise to Abraham’s faithful seed include all nations (Genesis 12:3; Romans 4 verses 13; Galatians 3 verses 7-9, 16, 26-29; 4 verses 21-31). Zion would be Yahweh’s redeemed bride and through extension that of our Lord Jesus Christ. As the tumultuous and storm tossed waters of Noah – who as his name indicated brought rest to the earth – so Zion’s precious and costly foundations were laid down by the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus, in whom the afflicted find rest (Matthew 11verses 28-30). All her children are v13 “taught of God” and so v17 “no weapon formed can prevail against them”. This remains irrefutable for both natural and spiritual Israel. Our peace being foundered upon our Lord’s resurrection and his assurance of our own (Isaiah 28:16; John 6 verses 27-69 – note especially v45 where v13 of Isaiah 5Revelation chapters 17-20 are described in “Apocalypse Epitomised” by H. P. Mansfield as, “The Judgment of the Great Whore and the Triumph of the Lamb”.
In chapters 17-18 we read of the destruction of Rome (Babylon the Great). In chapter 17 the Roman Church is described as a great prostitute, who has shed the blood of masses of the believers in the Lord Jesus Christ over centuries. It is presented as riding and controlling a brutish beast. The harlot sits on many waters – ie exercises dominion over many nations see also verse 15; eg in Columbia one can read many signs such as, “young man if you want power, become a priest”. The wine which Rome has used to befuddle the minds of those nations is Rome’s teachings (compare Jeremiah 51:7-8). Verse 5 says that on her head was a “mysterious”, or ‘secret’, name. The Catholic system is surrounded by secrets – there is within the Catholic catechism’s 7 blessed mysteries – starting with the mystery of the Trinity, a fundamental denial of the truth that Jesus came in the flesh. Rome had slain many martyrs (witnesses) of Jesus. “Foxes book of Martyrs” outlines many of these. The sight of the Great Whore brought astonishment to John. The Whore’s location is said to be a seven hilled city – Rome – verse 9 (these literal hills were emblematic of the 7 forms of government Rome has had). Verse 18 in addition tells us that at the time Revelation was written – 96 AD – that the city had dominion over the then known world; and that alone was Rome. Chapter 18 tells of the moral pollutions practised by Rome and the destruction that will be brought upon it. The words of verse 2 are an echo of what was said when the first Babylon fell. Verses 2-3 express Yahweh’s detestation of the vileness of Rome. Verse 4 is an appeal to God’s people to have nothing to do with Rome’s behaviours, so as to not share in her calamities. Martin Luther was a devout Church priest until he went to Rome and saw the perversions practised by all levels of the Church, and especially by the pontiff of that era. The Sovereign Lord will repay Rome’s evils doubly. The Roman Church describes herself as, “the Mother and Mistress of all Churches”; she sits as a queen, but the Almighty will make her a poverty stricken widow. All will forsake her and rejoice in her destruction. Verses 11-14 give an inventory of these soul merchants (note verse 13 lists among her cargoes, “the souls of men”). Those who have traded with her will be anything but exultant at Rome’s fall – there will be weeping and wailing. Rome’s overthrow is likened to a great angel casting a millstone into the sea. The blood of the martyrs will finally be avenged.