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Thoughts on the Bible Readings (2 Samuel 8, 9, Jeremiah 13 and Matthew 24) for July 23rd

2 Samuel 8 continues the enacted parable which commenced in chapter 6. After the promise of chapter 7 David strikes against his surrounding foes. David in Psalm 110 describes the role of Messiah - the king-priest after the order of Melchizedek - who would commence his rule among his enemies: Psalm 110 verse 2. Some of the victories recorded in 2 Samuel 8 are placed by the author of this segment of Samuel's second book, although these are deliberately placed out of chronological order. This is to develop the symbolism of the enactment. Teaching through the parabolic form is an important part of Scripture as it takes our minds along with the developing story. The Moabites were severely dealt with and the Syrians defeated and garrisoned to prevent them from uprising. Syria's king's crown was sent to David and placed on his head. The king of Hamath after hearing of the Syrians defeat sent tribute to king David. Verses 11-12 name the nations subdued by David and the collected tribute dedicated to God - no doubt being collected for the building of the temple in Solomon's reign. Next David subdued Edom and placed troops there. Verses 16-18 speak of the nation's officers set over his kingdom's administration. Chapter 9 tells of David's kindness to Mephibosheth Jonathan's lame son. David enquired of Ziba one of the servants of Jonathan's house, possibly appointed by the previous king Saul, as to whether there were any survivors of Saul's household to whom David could show kindness. David is told of Mephibosheth who is now raised to sit with David at the king's table. Mephibosheth shows reverence to David and declares his unworthiness of such an honour. Ziba is given the responsibility of managing Mephibosheth's estates; whilst Jonathan's son goes to Jerusalem. 
 
In Jeremiah 13 verses 1-7 the prophet is told by the Almighty to go to place a dry loincloth around his waist. Many days later Jeremiah was asked to to the Euphrates River and put the cloth in a safe place in the cleft of a rock near the river. The clothing was buried and Jeremiah returned to Jerusalem. What a long journey God had asked him to take! The lesson must have been important. Later again Jeremiah is sent back to where he had buried his clothes and God asked him to find his clothes. Then as would have been expected the prophet recovers his ruined clothing. Two return journeys each of about a thousand kilometres for each of these trips. In verses 8-11 Yahweh tells Jeremiah what all this signified. It was the LORD's expectation that His people would cling closely to their God. They should have been an adornment to the God of Israel. Instead the nation proved to be worthless for the purpose to which their Sovereign had called them. In verses 12-14 Jeremiah is told of the parable of the many wineskins which were to represent the people of the LORD filled with His teachings. Instead Judah had imbibed every wine that was contrary to the ways of Yahweh. They had become drunk with the wine of Babylon - from the leaders to the common people. And so their Omnipotent Maker would not spare His people. The language describing their destruction is reminiscent of Psalm 137 verse 8 which tells of Babylon's destruction. Verses 15-17 tell of the coming exile of Yahweh's flock. There are three very strong allusions in these verses which are picked up by our Lord Jesus Christ in the raising of Lazarus in John 11 verses 1-10, 35. Pause and reflect on why our Lord would use this chapter from Jeremiah when he is under siege from the rulers of the Jews. In Jeremiah 13 verses 18-19 the rulers of God's people are told that the Almighty would soon send them into exile. Verses 20-22 explain the nation's immorality for which Judah's husband was to discipline His wife. Verse 23 says that their behaviour was true to type just as the Ethiopian's skin would always be dark. Verses 24-27 speak of the punishment being Judah's scattering and that it was befitting of their lack of respect for Almighty God. 
In chapters 24 and 25 of Matthew we have "The Olivet Prophecy".  The first of these chapters is today's reading and centres on signs answering the three questions of verse 3. Chapter 25 is more about readying ourselves for our Lord's return. Note the link to the end of chapter 23. The leprous house was to be thrown down stone by stone. Disciples would be confused by claims made by false Messiahs and these would be accompanied by betrayal and persecution. A great sign to believers would be the desolation of Israel caused by the Roman invasion which had been foretold by Moses in Deuteronomy 28 and to Daniel in his ninth chapter. Opportunity would be provided for disciples to flee; this happened as Robert Roberts pointed out in "Ways of Providence" on five occasions. But those failing to heed Jesus' warnings would perish in the destruction of Jerusalem and its temple. The "Sign of the Son of Man in heaven" related to the presence of Rome's armies in the incipient fulfilling of those words and later, to a larger degree, to the restoration of the state of Israel. Next followed the parable of the fig tree (representative of Israel), and tells us why desolation had to come. Despite the signs none could know exactly when. Preparedness would be essential and disciples need to be ready by demonstrating patience by two traits - wisdom and faithfulness (verse 45). Chapter 25, in tomorrow's readings, will explain this through parables.

Thoughts on the Bible Readings (2 Samuel 7, Jeremiah 12 and Matthew 23) for July 22nd

In 2 Samuel 7 we have a most remarkable reading. The chapter is best known for the promise that the LORD makes with David. One should also look at the parallel account in 1 Chronicles 17. But the chapter is incredible for a range of reasons. As mentioned in yesterday's commentary we have an enacted and protracted parable that extends across 2 Samuel 6-8. In these chapters we have revealed David's understanding about the king-priest Melchizedek and how that man typifies Christ. Verses 1-3 of the chapter tells of David's restlessness when he thinks of his own lavish lifestyle compared to the ark of the Sovereign of the Universe being housed in a tent. He tells the prophet Nathan of his intentions to build a glorious house for God. Nathan endorses the king's love of his LORD. However in verses 4-11 the prophet is told that Yahweh will not allow a man of war to build a temple for a time of peace. David is additionally instructed that although the Almighty understands David's intentions He has not to this point in time sought for a grand place in which He will be worshiped. Is the idea of a magnificent house appropriate? Yes in so far as it reflects the respect of the worshippers and reminds them of the Majesty of the Heavens. For further thoughts on this consider Solomon's prayer at the dedication of the temple: 1 Kings 8 versex 12-30; and the temple of Ezekiel's prophecy Ezekiel 42-47. The prophet's message says that more importantly than David building a house for God will be his Sovereign building a house - ie household - for David. And that "house" would be founded on the Messiah, our Lord Jesus Christ. This is the message of the remainder of the chapter. Verses 12-16 give the details of our Heavenly Father's promise to David. There is a partial fulfilment of the terms with respect to Solomon; but in their totality they can only be applied to Jesus Christ. David is told that the promise will occur when he is dead and buried - verse 12. Solomon came to the throne when David was still alive. The heir of the kingdom - verse 13 - would be a direct descendant of David, and yet also be the Son of God - verse 14 - see the angel Gabriel's words to Mary in Luke 1:30-35. That this son would suffer for sin (though not his own: John Thomas - Elpis Israel, page 302, translates verse 14: "In his suffering for iniquity... and with the stripes due to the sons of men"). The LORD's chesed - stedfast love - would continue with David's special seed: Christ. And David thought having died would see the fulfilment of the promise - in the kingdom having been raised from the dead. The phrase in verse 16 "before your face" literally means' in your presence': see Psalm 16 and Acts 2 verses 22-36. When David sat before the ark of the LORD he was enacting the role of the king-priest Melchizedek, but he knew that he was symbolising the Lord Jesus Christ as David said in the parallel account, 
1 Chronicles 17 verses 17: "a man of high degree" - Hebrew 'the law of the Adam who ascends' ie to the right hand of His Father. 18-29 tell of David's prayer of gratitude. But we need also to see what he did in the enactment of the parable which tells us what David understood from God's promise to him. The promise to bring greatness to David's house was but a small thing for the Almighty. And, says David, its fulfilment lay in the distant future: 2 Samuel 23 verses1-7. This is because it focuses on the Messiah. In verse 21-29 David magnifies God and praises the LORD's majesty and care for all of His children from the time of Israel's redemption out of Egypt. When we exalt ourselves we make God small; but when the Omnipotent Creator is seen as He truly and rightly is is we take our rightful place.
In Jeremiah 12 verses1-5 the prophet express his complaint to the LORD. Jeremiah sees the wicked seemingly prospering and he calls upon his Sovereign to reward the nation according to their doings. The prophet says that he is confident that the Almighty knows his heart and when he endures trial his God will save him. When the LORD God answers Jeremiah He challenges the prophet by telling Jeremiah that although things are difficult now they will get far worse. In verses 6-13 Yahweh says that He has already forsaken His house and delivered His heritage - Judah - to the ravages of the Babylonian lion. The wild beasts would thrive in the desolate land that was once the glory of all lands and the envy of the world. A nation who were originally shepherds - Babylon - had driven the flock of the LORD from His Land. Judah had sown what they believed to be wheat but the harvest they reaped was thorns. And so God had punished His people. In verses 14-18 Yahweh will punish all of Judah's evil neighbours. This is quoted by James in Acts 15 verses 16-18 where he links this Scripture with Amos 9 verses 11-15. God says that He will restore His nation when they return to Him and forsake the baals that they now swore by.
In Matthew 23 our Lord Jesus pronounced 8 woes, or curses, upon the hypocritical Scribes and Pharisees. Indeed Jesus indicated that many of their instructions showed that they had perceived what God's law required of them, but they had failed to practise the law of their Sovereign. Verse 9 tells us that many churches act against Jesus' clear teaching to call no man father, since only One is our Father, God Himself, who is in heaven. Similarly none of us is to be called the Teacher; for Christ our Master is alone to be called that. Humility is the key ingredient for a disciple's life. Christ's outlining of the beatitudes of Matthew 5 stand in stark contrast to the 8 cursings in this chapter. For these reasons Jesus pronounced their house - that is the city of Jerusalem (compare these words with our Jeremiah readings) - desolate (just like the leprous house of Leviticus 14 verses 39-45). This state would continue until our Lord Jesus' second advent which advent would be heralded by the restoration of the state of Israel. Under the reign of Messiah, our Lord Jesus Christ the nation will finally be healed - see verses 37-39. The take home message for all who would be God's children is in verses 23-24. The Pharisees were 'penny wise, but pound foolish'. If you wish to focus on minor matters then ensure that you don't impose your values on others and try to focus on the monumental matters. Read the words aloud and ponder their lessons for you.

Thoughts on the Bible Readings (2 Samuel 6, Jeremiah 11 and Matthew 22) for July 21st

2 Samuel 6 contains two tragic incidents and one of exceptional joy. Having taken Jebus David has now made it his capital and is intent on bringing the ark of the covenant to "Jerusalem" as the centrepiece of the LORD's worship. The nation is to be united through the praise and understanding of their Almighty Sovereign. In his enthusiasm for the bringing of the ark David has omitted to find out the proper way to transport the ark. Verses 1-4 describe the pomp that was to accompany the journey of the ark. A new cart had been made and two priests were given the responsibility for transporting the ark. Verses 5-11 tell of the failed attempt to bring it to Jerusalem. Uzzah and Ahio were driving the cart accompanied by great festivity when it came to the threshingfloor of Nashon and the oxen stumbled. Uzzah put out his hand to steady the ark and the LORD immediately struck him dead. David was devastated and the journey came to a standstill. The ark was taken aside into the field of Obed-Edom where it remained for three months. David was fearful to have stirred up Yahweh's anger and brought about Uzzah's death. However the Gentile house where the ark stayed was blessed by Almighty God. Verses 12-15 describe the final journey of the ark to its resting place in Jerusalem - this time being carried on the priests' shoulders. Its voyage was with burnt offerings and priests trumpeting its progress. Psalm 132 was written by David telling us what was in his mind at this time. Read and ponder how this occasion was typical of the righteousness and peace that will come with Messiah's kingdom. David also composed a Psalm of thanksgiving - look at the words of 1 Chronicles 16:8-37. The ark was placed in a tent that David had erected for it: Amos 9:11-15 talk of the restoration when our Lord Jesus will rule from Jerusalem. Sadly Michal, Saul's daughter, was ashamed of her husband and poured scorn on David for throwing himself wholeheartedly into the praise of his God. For this David no longer treated Michal as a wife. Michal remained childless for her pride. Notice that David gave gifts to the people of that which represented "bread and wine". The king was enacting the part of a king-priest after the order of Melchizedek as this chapter and the next two chapters will reveal. 
Jeremiah 11 verses 1-5 speak of the Almighty cursing Judah for their failure to keep the covenant that He made with the forefathers of the nation - Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The words of Yahweh take the form of oath and the prophet shows his agreement with God's curse by saying "Amen" at the close of the LORD's words. Verses 6-8 sees the prophet denouncing his nation as he walks through the streets of Jerusalem. Verses 9-13 tell of Judah returning to the sins of many of their predecessors in the worshipping of the baals. There were, says God, as many of the these as there were cities in Judah. Verses 14-20 say how the leaders had made a conspiracy against Jeremiah to eliminate him. The word picture deliberately chosen shows how their attitude defied the Law of the LORD God Almighty. These leaders sought to destroy both the tree and its fruit. Israel were forbidden to do this. And so their Omnipotent Creator had determined to bring disaster to Judah. Jeremiah acknowledges that Yahweh is true and righteous and therefore Judah's punishment is deserved and measured. Verses 21-23 reveal that the chief plotters against the prophet were the men of Anathoth - Jeremiah's hometown. Anathoth was a town of priests of whom Jeremiah was one.
In Matthew 22 verses 1-14 we have the parable of the wedding feast of the Kingdom, to which we all have been invited through the Gospel. Our Omnipotent King has provided the only garment needed for admission; the sin covering raiment of His ever glorious and pre-eminent Son. We put this garment on when we believe the gospel, repent and are baptised. The disciple must then live a life of faithfulness for our Father to graciously give us a place in His kingdom. A sobering note concludes this parable: "Many are called, but few are chosen". Then follow four questions, each one from each of the three main political parties in Israel and then unanswered question from the Lord to each of these groups. These answers provided incontrovertible proof from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Promised Messiah. Verses 15-22 addresses the unpopular subject of taxation. The tax here was the Roman tax which was even more hated because it maintained Roman armies in Judah's land. The Land that had been given to them by the Almighty. Jesus was asked: "Should we pay this tax? Or, should we not pay it?" If our Lord said - yes - then he lost popularity with his people. If he said - no - then he could be accused of treason against Rome. His enemies were sure Jesus was trapped. However he completely turned the table on his adversaries. He masterfully not only answered the question but also used the occasion to direct all the hearers to their responsibilities to their God. Our Lord asked for a denarius. Whose image and superscription is on this coin? Caesar's they replied. Then give to Caesar what is his and to God what belongs to Him. We have been made in the image and likeness of God. So our lives, minds and actions belong to Him. Verses 23-33 say that the Sadducees came to Jesus with a trick question relating to resurrection. This sect accepted only the first five books of the Old Testament - called the Book of Moses. They mistakenly believed that resurrection was not supported by these Scriptures. However Jesus proves from Exodus 3 verses 15-17 that the raising of the dead is proven by Yahweh saying that He is the God of Abraham, and God is the God of the living, for all live unto Him - not He was - therefore Abraham has a future after his being restored to life in the future. Their failure, Jesus declared , was in not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God (verse 29). Verses 34-38 Jesus is asked by Pharisee lawyer which is the greatest commandment in the Law of Moses. This topic was hotly debated among the religious leaders. Our Lord's answer is that it is very clear: You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, and mind and strength - Deuteronomy 6 verses 4-5. Jesus says that the second is like unto it: You shall love your neighbour as yourself: Leviticus 19:18; 1 John 4:7-13. The chapter concludes proving Jesus himself to be the divine son of David (after the flesh), but God's Son of the Father's right hand, as attested. In verses 39-46 Jesus asks his critics whose son is Messiah, his Lord? Easy they thought! The Old Testament tells us that Messiah is the son of David. If so, says Jesus, why then does David in Psalm 110 call Messiah his Lord? This was an impossibility in Jewish reckoning for a son to be superior to his father. The only way for this to be true is for Jesus to be the Son of God as well as being the son of David: Psalm 110 verses -2; 2 Samuel 7 verses 2-16,  2 Samuel 23 verses 1-7; Micah 5 verses 2-5. His opponents were left dumbfounded.

Thoughts on the Bible Readings (2 Samuel 4, 5, Jeremiah 10 and Matthew 21) for July 20th

In 2 Samuel 4 we have two incidents that are related to the house of Saul. One of these concerned Saul's son - Ishbosheth - and the other about Saul's grandson - Mephibosheth. The first (Ishbosheth) speaks of an assassination by two wicked men. The second of restoring to favour of Mephibosheth - Jonathan's son - an act of kindness in fulfilment of the covenant faithfully made in love between the two great friends David and Jonathan. Verse 4 tells us how Mephibosheth became lame. Verses 5-7 describe the stealth and guile of Baanah and Rechab, who had been captains of Saul's raiders, as they planned and executed the slaying of Ishbosheth. In verse 8 these two men present David with Ishbosheth's head. In verses 9-12 we are told of David's anger towards these two opportunists and their execution and the hanging of these two disgraced criminals. 2 Samuel 5 verses 1-5 describes David's being crowned at age 30 over all Israel and tells us that he reigned for 40 years. Verses 6-10 speak of the capture of Jerusalem from the Jebusites by a valiant Joab in a great act of strength and courage. This now becomes the city of David and Joab earns for himself restoration to the head of David's army. Verses 11-12 inform us that David advises Hiram king of Tyre of David's becoming Israel's king. Verses 13-16 speak of David's accumulation of more concubines and wives. Verses 17-25 says that with divine help and guidance David is given two miraculous victories in major battles over the Philistines. Then in obedience to his God he continued to strike down the Philistines. Truly Saul had slain his thousands, but David his ten thousands. 
In Jeremiah 10 Yahweh is contrasted with the dumb and useless idols of the heathen and declared to be the true and living God. The nations are dismayed by the lightning, the thunder, earthquakes etc and yet they fail to see the Almighty power of the Creator of these phenomena. Verses 2-5 tell of the impotence of an idol to do anything. There is great irony in the prophet's graphic word pictures here. The prophet speaks of the incredible efforts of the idol maker to craft an object that can do absolutely nothing. I love the ESV's words in verse 5 "the are like a scarecrow in a cucumber field". Verses 6-7 tell us that there is no one like Israel's Omnipotent Sovereign. He alone is all wise and the idol worshippers are dull and stupid. He reigns enthroned in the Heavens as King over all nations. Despite their magnificent appearance they remain dumb idols incapable of doing anything. But as verse 10 tells us Yahweh is the only true and living God. Paul points this out in Acts 17 and says that the time for ignorance has ended as the only true God commands all to repent. In 1 Thessalonians 1 verses 9-10 he describes how believers from that city had turned from their dumb idols to serve the living and true God. In verses 11-16 the LORD through Jeremiah condemns the foolishness of idol worship and contrasts those inanimate objects with the Almighty King of Judah. Verses 17-18 speaks of God slinging the nation out of the Land like a stone flung from a sling. Verses 19-21 is once again a lament for the devastated Land and the scattering of Yahweh's flock. Verse 22 tells us the the LORD's land has become the habitat of jackals. The Almighty tells us a great truth that has been proven throughout history: "I know, O LORD, that the way of man is not in himself, that it is not in man who walks to direct his steps." And as a consequence of this our Sovereign's advice to each faithful believer is given in verse 24. Slowly read and meditate its meaning for you. For their evil ways the Omnipotent Creator will soon pour out His wrath on all nations. 
In Matthew 21 Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem was accompanied by shouts of "Hosannas" (save now). Matthew tells us that this was in fulfilment of the prophecy of Zechariah, in the 9th chapter. The prophecy of Zechariah contrasts Alexander the Great, bringing death and destruction; with Jesus the lowly bring salvation. The next citation in Matthew - "Blessed is he that comes in the name of the LORD" ie Yahweh - comes from Psalm 118 verse 26 (but note Messiah's mindset from the context from the entire Psalm). The rulers were in indignation with the multitude and asked Jesus to rebuke them. Our Lord's response was to refer them to Psalm 8 the LXX version, which spoke of what was happening and the victory being accomplished. Next in the chapter came the curse of a fig tree, which like Israel, showed the false promise of apparent fruitfulness. It was cursed by Jesus. The next day the disciples witnessed that the tree had immediately withered. This was followed by Jesus demonstration that his authority was unquestionably from God. After this came the parable of the two sons - firstly the rulers said that they were doing the Father's will, but lord; in contrast the commoners knew they were sinning, but sincerely repeated. Lastly the chapter concludes with the parable of the unfaithful tenants. The rulers recognising themselves in the story fulfilled it to the letter by immediately taking counsel to destroy Jesus.

The Life of Christ #93: At the Feast of Tabernacles – Revealing Teachings by John Martin

A @Christadelphians Video: **Video Description:** Discover the wonderful and thought-provoking teachings of Jesus during the Feast of Tabernacles in this insightful Bible talk by John Martin. Unpack the rich symbolism and deep lessons from this key moment in Christ’s ministry. 📖 **Bible Verses Covered:** ✝️ John 7:1-53 ✝️ Leviticus 23:33-43 ✝️ Deuteronomy 16:13-15 ✝️ Zechariah 14:16-19 ⏳ **Video Chapters:** 00:00 - Introduction 05:12 - The Historical Background of the Feast 12:35 - Jesus’ Arrival at the Temple 18:50 - The Debate Over His Authority 25:15 - The Promise of Living Water 32:40 - Jesus as the Light of the World 40:05 - The Crowd’s Divided Reactions 47:20 - The Pharisees’ Opposition 54:30 - Final Teachings & Conclusion 🔔 **Receive notifications** for more inspiring Bible studies by subscribing and clicking the bell icon! 📚 **Category:** Religion & Spirituality **Tags:** The Life of Christ, Feast of Tabernacles, John Martin, Bible study, Jesus teachings, Gospel of John, Christian sermon, Bible verses, New Testament, Old Testament prophecy

Thoughts on the Bible Readings (2 Samuel 3, Jeremiah 9 and Matthew 20) for July 19th

In 2 Samuel 3 an agreement is made between David and Abner to transfer all power under David's authority and for Abner to facilitate this transition. David agrees that Abner will replace Joab as the commander of the army. When Joab heard of this agreement he tried hard to change David's mind by claiming that Abner could not be trusted. The chapter began by telling us of David's growing power and family; at the same time as the house of Saul is in serious decline. The chapter says that Ishbosheth challenged Abner by accusing him of being intimate with one of Ishbosheth's concubines. Abner reacted violently and swore to transfer authority to David. Ishbosheth was never able to control Abner and so Abner's outburst was met with silence. David also made a condition for Abner's plan to be implemented that his wife Michal must be restored to David. Abner convinced the heads of Benjamin to support Abner's plan. He travels with 20 Benjaminites to come with him for the discussions with David. After Abner's visit Joab sought to overturn the agreement. Now his sworn enemy, who had killed Joab's younger brother - Asahel - had usurped Joab's position as captain of the army. Verses 26-30 tell of Joab's cunning deception and he and his brother Abishai ruthlessly slaying Abner at the gates of Hebron - a city of refuge. Verses 31-34 recounts David's anger and sadness at the treachery of his two nephews. Abner was publicly praised by David for his courage and dedication to his job. He died tragically as a fool at the hands of the cruel brothers. David describes Joab and Abishai as wicked men. In Verses 35-40 David refused food and mirth to honour Abner. This was pleasing to David's servants as they respected everything that king David did. David then expressed the view that Joab and Abishai were extremely dangerous men. David called on Yahweh as his witness that the king had nothing to do with Abner's assassination.
In Jeremiah 9 verses 1-3 the prophet laments the deplorable circumstances that had come upon Judah. He says that he could weep uncontrollably for his nation. He speaks of the immorality in both words and actions that had brought this about. Verses 4-6 speak of how the nation had no moral fibre - everyone was guilty of lying and oppressing others. In verses 7-9 the Almighty declares that He must chastise His people for their falsehood. Verses 10-11 say that the land will be divested of people and grazing animals. It will become the place for jackals. The cities of Judah will be uninhabited. Verses 12-19 laments the failure of any wise and discerning person to be found among Judah. The reason for the ruin of Judah was a failure to obey Yahweh's laws. They had stubbornly followed their idols and were reaping the consequences for their actions. Ultimately the LORD would cast them out of His Land. Verses 20-22 condemn the women of Judah who had embraced a covenant with death. And Judah's carcasses would be so many that they would be like dung on the ground. Verses 23-24 tells of the only possible remedy. The ideas are just as pertinent to every disciple today. We quote them in full and ask each reader to meditate on the meaning to the way we live before our Heavenly Father: "Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but him who boasts boast in this, that he knows and understands Me, that I am Yahweh who practises steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight says the LORD." The Apostle Paul elaborates on this theme in the book of Corinthians: 1 Corinthians 1 verses 18-31. Carefully ponder these lessons. Jeremiah concludes his ninth chapter in verse 24 by saying that the days are coming when Judah's Sovereign will judge all whose heart remains uncircumcised.
Matthew's 20th chapter starts with the parable of the labourers in the vineyard, naturally representing Israel - Isaiah 5; Psalm 80 verses 8-19. The parable is memorable because of its failure to represent sound financial practice. This device deliberately tells us that access to the kingdom is on the basis of grace and not merit. Then follows in verses 17-19 Jesus telling the Apostles for a third time of his approaching and imminent demise. Then Salome, the mother of James and John (two of the three foremost Apostles), seeks for them the greatest positions of honour in Messiah's kingdom. All the lessons on humility leading to this point seem to have not been grasped. The section concludes with the healing of two blind men, who became followers of the Master.

Thoughts on the Bible Readings (2 Samuel 1, Jeremiah 7 and Matthew 18) for July 17th.

2 Samuel begins with David hearing of the death of Saul and his sons on Mount Gilboa. The news was brought to David in Ziklag by a dirt-covered Amalekite. This man sought to ingratiate himself to David and was hoping to be generously rewarded for his news. Instead the man is shocked and terrified by David's angry response. Before David responded he asked the Amalekite to tell him the circumstances of the death of Saul and his sons. The account is given and David is told by the Amalekite the information we heard in 1 Samuel 31. However he provides extra information believing that David will reward him. The Amalekite says that he came upon Saul who was nearing death and at the request of king Saul he slew Saul. As proof that he had done what he claimed the man brought Saul's crown and arm band. David mourned till the evening and then rose in rage and tells the Amalekite that his actions had sealed his own death having slain Yahweh's anointed. That wicked man was instantly executed by one of David's young warriors. The second half of the chapter outlines David's ode of lament for Saul and Jonathan. The lament is called the Song of the Bow, since the bow was Jonathan's weapon of choice. Jonathan had given David his bow earlier when the two friends made a covenant between them. The words of the song are in verses 19-27. At David's command they were recorded in the book of Jasher and were to be taught to Judah, David's own tribe. David speaks of Saul and Jonathan as "the glory of Israel" and they were slain on the Mount - high places - defending the people of the LORD against their enemies. David is distressed that the Philistines will gloat over their victory. David says "tell it not in Gath" - the Hebrew is a poem: "Tell it not in Telltown". David asks God to withhold moisture from falling on Mount Gilboa. Verses 22-23 describe the valiant and courageous and undivided warriors that Saul and Jonathan were. Verse 24 outlines Saul's generosity towards the Jewish maidens he favoured. Saul showed generosity to many during his life. In the last three verses David concludes his lament by saying that he is greatly distressed by Jonathan's untimely death. That demise was the end of an extraordinarily deep friendship. No doubt that this friendship will again flourish in Messiah's kingdom. David is exemplary in his speaking well of Saul who constantly had sought to destroy him. Let us learn to speak always graciously with measured words: Ephesians 4 verses 29-32. 
 
Jeremiah 7 is about the evil that prevailed in the land of Judah. Jeremiah is told to stand at the gate of the temple and tell everyone who entered the building that they were hypocrites. The people of Jerusalem believed themselves to be holy and in accord with God's values. They were convinced that for this reason no calamity could come to them. Yahweh's message to them is for them to change their ways if they want to remain in the Land. Otherwise disaster would befall them. Read verses 5-7 carefully and consider the implications for the way we must show mercy and justice to all people. By contrast verses 8-11 tell us the corrupt way that they were living. The prophet says that the Almighty detested and would punish them for their self delusion. The nation declared their belief that their Sovereign delighted in them. Verse 11 is quoted by our Lord Jesus Christ in Matthew 21 verses 13 as he cleansed the temple. This shows that the leaders behaviour was just as perverse 600 years after the prophet's time - despite the LORD having disciplined them by overthrowing them and sending Judah into exile. The Almighty tells the leaders to learn from history by allowing the Tabernacle at Shiloh to be overthrown for a long period of time because of the nation's wickedness. In verses 16-17 Jeremiah is told not to pray, nor intercede, for the people as God will not listen. The nation's offensive worshipping of idols is described in verses 18-19. Their principal goddess is described as "the queen of heaven". Near to where I live is a massive Catholic Church which is named Regina Coeli, which translates from Latin to 'the queen of heaven' in English. Judah's Sovereign expresses His jealousy and anger at their insult to Him. In verses 20-26 Yahweh speaks of their continuing refusal to listen to Him and amend their doings. Judgment could not be delayed. So in the last three verses the prophet is told to tell the nation to commence their grieving now.
Matthew's 18th chapter focuses on humility and forgiveness, both of which are crucial if a disciple is to enter the Kingdom. Forgiveness must be given to those who request it. Never in the Bible is forgiveness unconditional. Whether it is the forgiveness God offers us, or the forgiveness others ask of us it depends upon whether we contritely ask our Father's forgiveness and as we forgive others: see the Lord's Prayer Matthew 6 verses 12-14. Humility and absence of malice is the foundation for receiving an inheritance with our Father and His Son. The disciple must never become the cause of stumbling for another. Being conscious of the sources of sin in our lives will result in believers taking the extreme actions required to prevent us losing the Kingdom. 
The parable of the lost sheep indicates the love of the Shepherd for his straying sheep and the extreme effort expended in its recovery; as well as the accompanying joy when the lost sheep is recovered. The parable of the stumbling disciple is based upon the same principles - the maximum exertion is to be made in order to restore a beloved disciple. Our Lord's words to Peter are of ongoing and limitless forgiveness as the number 490 represents. Our forgiveness is conditional on extending constant forgiveness to others (Matthew 6 verses 12-14). Jesus' instructions here stand in stark contrast to Lamech's vengeful attitude mentioned in Genesis 4 verses 23-24. Most pertinent to us is the parable of the unforgiving servant. Our God has forgiven us an immeasurable debt. Unless that moves us to see that, however great we might esteem any wrongs done to us, they need to be seen in perspective as inconsequential. We must be moved - like our Lord Jesus Christ and his Father - from within our heart to truly forgive others.

Thoughts on the Bible Readings (1 Samuel 31 and Jeremiah 6 and Matthew 17) for July 16th

1 Samuel 31 records the sad end to Saul's life as he and his sons were all slain on Mount Gilboa. Saul died as he had lived - a great warrior for his people, Israel. The result had been told by the medium at Endor during the previous night. He was mortally wounded by the Philistine archers. Saul, knowing that he couldn't survive, asked his armour bearer to take his life. But that man could not lift his weapon against Yahweh's anointed. So Saul perished by thrusting his own sword through his heart lest the Philistines abuse him while he was still alive. Saul's armour bearer died in like manner. The Israelites in the nearby towns fled and left their villages to be spoiled by the victorious Philistines. Verses 8-10 says that the day after the battle the spoilers took the spoil from the battlefield. They beheaded Saul and sent his armour to their towns before that armour was placed in the house of Ashtaroth and Saul's body and those of his three sons and fastened them to the wall at Bethshan. When the warriors from Jabesh-Gilead heard of this they valiantly came and took Saul's body and those of his sons from the Philistine garrison and carried them to Jabesh-Gilead where their burned before burying those warriors under a Tamarisk tree at Jabesh-Gilead. The bravery shown by the mighty men of Jabesh-Gilead was by way of recompense for Saul's saving that city at the start of his reign. There is also a two in three probability that Saul's ancestors may have been from Jabesh-Gilead: see Judges 21:7-24. After burying those heroes beneath a tamarisk tree those brave warriors from Jabesh-Gilead mourned for seven days. 
In Jeremiah 6 verse 1-5 God speaks of the impending doom that would come on Judah from out of the north from the Babylonian shepherd kingdom. The LORD's people are told to flee or be prepared to fight. Verses 6-8 describe the siege mounds that would be brought against the guilty people who had treasured up destruction by their actions: see Romans 2:1-11. In word pictures their wickedness is spoken of: a well holding bitter water; and as a sick and deteriorating body. For these reasons the Almighty will bring desolation to the Land. Verses 9-10 speak of the punishment as leaving but a few grapes after the gathering and then the gleanings. Verses 10-13 speaks of their Sovereign pouring judgment upon His people out of the cup of His anger: Jeremiah 1:9-10. The civil and the religious leaders are seen as trying to heal the nation's incurable disease. In verses 14-15 these leaders prophesy of a time of "peace" when the wicked ways can bring only war: Isaiah 57 verse 21. Verses 16-21 tell of the LORD appealing to His children to find His ways through His prophets' counsel, but they stubbornly refused. So the Almighty must bring discipline to His family. These people do not want to change. Instead they think that as long as they offer their God incense and offerings He will accept them. But, no external worship is a substitute for true worship from their heart. In verses 22-26 the cruel and relentless Babylonian army is presented to Judah. Judah will be reduced to sackcloth in the day of the LORD's anger. In verses 27-30 God speaks of Himself as a refiner of precious silver. When their Sovereign has refined His people in the crucible of affliction they will be seen to be worthless dross. We too are tried by affliction and what will the Almighty reveal to us about our character when we are tried. Pause and ponder.
In Matthew chapter 17 we focus on an event known as the Transfiguration. It occurs in each of the synoptic gospels - Matthew 17; Mark 9 verses 2-8, Luke 9 verses 8-36. It was a revelation of Jesus in transcendent glory. Its significance belongs to the Kingdom age. Our Lord Jesus Christ is resplendent in glorious white glistening robes. Mark tells us that this glory and righteousness surpassed that attainable by any person - this is telling us that the glorious and righteous character of our Lord was unique and sustained by God's workings. Our Lord Jesus was seen together with Moses (representative of the Law) and Elijah (for the prophets). But their glory was inconsequential when compared to that of our Lord Jesus Christ's. In addition to all of this was the commanding and imperious voice of Jesus' Almighty Father announcing to those Apostles, and to all, including us: "This is My Beloved Son in whom I am well pleased, hear him". After coming down from the Mount Jesus told his disciples that their failure to cure the epileptic boy was because their faith needed to grow and develop like a grain of mustard seed. After this Christ again told his Apostles of the great trials which lay ahead of Jesus. These sufferings would culminate in his offering on the tree and that on the third day he would be raised from the dead. Let us consider let us look at Peter's timeless commentary on the Transfiguration in 2 Peter 1 verses 13-20. Pause, and ponder and reflect.

Thoughts on the Bible Readings (1 Samuel 29, 30; Jeremiah 5; Matthew 16) for July 15th

In 1 Samuel 29 David will find that his lies and deception have brought him to a dilemma from which there would appear to be no opportunity to escape. The lords of the Philistines had mustered their forces at Aphek in order for a full scale war with Israel. Achish has summoned David and his men to go with them to fight against their enemies. The other 4 lords express their objections believing that should the battle not go in favour of Philistia David could change sides and fight for Israel to reconcile himself to Saul. These lords recount what a thorn in their sides David had been in the past. Achish defends David's loyalty before the lords. However they still insist that David and his men leave the Philistine camp before sunrise - before the battle. David agrees to do this. Once again David's Almighty God has saved him out of an exceptionally dangerous predicament. Chapter 30 sees David and his troop reach a very low point where David despairs of life. As David's troop come to Ziklag they find their town destroyed and burning and strewn with corpses. David's followers are so distraught that they want to blame him for what has happened and to stone him to death. David prays as verse 6 tells us. Never let us forget that no matter how bad things seem to be we can always count on our LORD for support. David then asks counsel from his God by asking Abiathar the priest to find out what the Almighty would have him do. Their Sovereign instructs them to pursue the enemy and that they will recover their families and their wealth. David's company found a sick and starving Egyptian who had been left behind by the Amalekite raiding party. Just think that had Saul destroyed the Amalekites as God had commanded him this catastrophe could not have happened. The Egyptian promised help as long as he was not sold to those Amalekites. Verses 16-20 tell us that just as the Almighty had promised so it came to pass. Two hundred of David's men had minded the luggage whilst the other four hundred had risked their life in battle. The 400 did not wish to share the spoil. David made a rule from that point and beyond the spoil was to be divided evenly whatever part his followers had played in the warfare. David always tried to act with justice and equality for all. David then distributed much of the wealth to the nearby regions with an explanation that it had come from the enemies of Yahweh.
In Jeremiah 5 the prophet is told to run through Jerusalem to see if he could find anyone who would walk in the ways of the LORD. If the prophet could find such a person God promised to pardon Judah. However, says Almighty God, He saw only hypocritical lip service - outward worship without any truth. All this despite their Sovereign's discipline. Ezekiel was given a similar task in chapter 9 of that prophecy. The nation had set her face against her Maker. Jeremiah acknowledges that this is true, but claims that the LORD's people are ignorant of His ways. In verse 6 their Omnipotent Judge declares that they would be savaged by the Babylonian lion and that God would observe the nation's actions as closely as a leopard does his prey. In verses 7-9 her Sovereign describes her lascivious behaviour and that Judah's appetite for immorality is unquenchable. Graphic word pictures are used by her God. Verses 10-13 outline the vast extent of the coming judgments - even the prophets would be destroyed (excepting Jeremiah as we shall find out later). In verses 14-17 the LORD describes the arrogance and ruthlessness of the Babylonians. He also speaks of the destruction that would be brought upon Judah. The Babylonians would show no mercy. Verses 18-25 reveal that Yahweh, in contrast to Babylon, would show mercy in sparing Judah and saving a remnant. Verses 26-29 speak of the treacherous behaviours of the Judeans among themselves. God says that such actions cannot go unpunished. In verses 30-31 God describes the perverse practices of the priests and ruler. Sadly, says the prophet, the people not only tolerate it, but want it to be that way. 
The 16th chapter of Matthew shows the incapacity of the nation's rulers to see what was happening in their midst. This is followed by a treatise on the deception contained in corrupt teachings; whose pervasive influence rapidly permeates like leaven. Next comes the greatest confession by Peter, upon which rock-like foundation the entire ecclesia is built - namely, that "Jesus Christ is the Son of the living God" (see John 6verses 68-69; Ephesians 2 verses 20-21). Our Lord Jesus next explicitly explains to his Apostles his coming sufferings, death and resurrection on the third day. Our Lord Jesus Christ's resurrection was the sign of the prophet Jonah. That prophet spent 3 days in the belly of the whale which in Jonah's prayer is called the belly of hell: Jonah 2 verses 1-2. The Apostle Paul says that this proved the Lord Jesus Christ's divine Sonship: Romans 1 verses 4; Ephesians 1 verses 15-22. The Apostle Peter reminds us of the same matter: Acts 2 verses 22-36. The chapter concludes with a final appeal to each believer to take up our stake - Greek "staurus" - and follow our Lord through suffering even unto death should that be our lot.

Thoughts on the Bible Readings (1 Samuel 28, Jeremiah 4, Matthew 15) for July 14th

1 Samuel 28 is the lowest point in Saul's life. In chapter 10 we see a promising beginning for a humble young man who God caused to be surrounded by a band of spiritually talented men. From there he slid lower and lower in the failure of removing all of the Amalekites and then to the slaughter of the Gibeonites. Yahweh refused to answer Saul and so in his extremity with a massive Philistine army having invaded the land he turns to a witch, or a medium, as some translations say.
Saul travelled at night accompanied by members of his army to Endor to hear of his fate from a woman whose life was in danger from her king who had removed from Israel "all those with familiar spirits". The first interchange of words between Saul and the woman illustrates how these types of people are able to delude others and gain their confidence. A very tall man in the company of other men comes to her home not far from the site of the coming battle. This man assures her, that even though the king has determined to destroy mediums, he can guarantee her safety. He then asks her to stir up the spirit of Samuel. The woman says "You have deceived me - you're Saul". Who else could it be? She delivers a disturbing message to the king. Did she summon Samuel from the dead? Certainly not!
Why would God allow this when he had refused to answer Saul? Also there is no communication with the unconscious dead. Notice that Saul asks her what she has seen. And her answers are vague, and many in Israel would have described Samuel in this way. She also relates information that many in Israel knew very well. The woman tells Saul that he and his sons would die in battle tomorrow. Anyone could see that this was the most likely outcome for an unequal battle. Finally the woman implores Saul and his men to eat before departing for the battle.
In Jeremiah 4 verse 1-2 the LORD asks Israel to return to Him and promises that if they do this the Gentiles will embrace their God: Isaiah 65:16-19. Verses 3-4 says that repentance is a matter of a heart that has been touched by God and has nothing to do with outward appearances. And without anyone truly seeking the Almighty our God will bring justice to every hypocrite. Verses 5-8 reveal that the day of settling for the nation would come in His bringing judgment from the Babylonians in the north. The Babylonians are depicted as a ravenous lion ready to sweep upon the prey - Judah. Verses 9-13 speak of how Judah's hearts will tremble from the king down to the commoner. Verses 14-18 tell the nation to change its ways, since their doings have caused this coming doom. Verses 19-31 give a word picture of the destruction that the Babylonians have brought upon guilty Judah. Jeremiah is anguished by his contemplation of this scene of devastation. The prophet likens the pain of Judah to a woman in hard  labour.
Matthew 15 describes the lengths to which Jewish traditions could be taken to subvert Divine precepts and the Word of the LORD. The 5th commandment, described as the first with promise (Ephesians 6 verses 1-3), was bypassed by a legal ruse known as Corban. It allowed the wealthy to avoid all responsibility to their parents by declaring with an oath that an individual's entire wealth belonged to God. Whilst ,at the same time, ensuring that the wealthy enjoyed unfettered access to everything "promised" to the Temple. Just like the times of Jeremiah the chosen people gave mere lip service to their Creator and substituted this for this is what the truth demanded by our Sovereign demands from all disciples.
The record tells of a discussion about the true source of defilement of people - that is their own fleshly minds  - and not any external thing. These matters reveal Pharisaism as an example of the blind leadership of the blind. The faith of the Canaanite woman, whose daughter Jesus healed, was astonishing to our Lord. This incredible incident is like the faith of the Roman centurion in Matthew 8. This woman's belief and accepting of the power of Jesus to heal and his authority caused our Lord Jesus to marvel.
This faithful woman acknowledged that privileges rightly rested upon the covenant people of Israel. She also requested that Jesus graciously give her crumbs that fell from the chosen people's table by heading her daughter. The chapter tells us that Jesus performed many miracles for the Gentiles. This caused many of them to ascribe praise to the God of Israel. The chapter concludes by telling us that our Lord Jesus fed 4,000 gentiles. This was despite his own Apostles' reticence to show any compassion to those people who were after all Gentile dogs. Our Lord never shared such prejudices. Christ was always expansive in his love of all and freely distributed the gospel's bounties.