The disciples needed to understand Jesus' identity before He could teach them properly about His death. The disciples needed to know who Jesus was, so that they could fully understand why He came.
Peter was thinking from a human perspective only, not from God's...and because of that, it was warped by Satan.
v34-38 The choice of following Jesus is an all or nothing choice - you either are, or you are not. The decision you make will have implications on the day of judgement.
In seeing Moses & Elijah there, this was affirmation of Jesus being all that the Law & the Prophets had said. However, this experience was going to show them Jesus truly was sent from God.
The question raised in the minds of the disciples was who was Jesus and why did we first have the Prophets - the reason was to show Jesus was enough and far superior than the Prophets.
When Jesus returned to the rest of the disciples, he saw their lack of faith. It is a reminder of our need for complete dependence on Jesus and not at all on ourselves.
Spiritually, the way to become great is to become less - become a servant of all. Be like a little child - welcome them.
Jesus tells the disciples not to behave the way they did, because:
Those who do miracles are tied inextricably with Jesus' teaching
Those who do good will not lose their reward (ie: they will not be forgotten)
It is better to enter the kingdom of God in a right position before God than to have think you're right & be exposed for what you are.
Deal with sin thoroughly.
Friday, 31 May 2013
Thursday, 30 May 2013
Mark 7:1-8:26 Jesus does all things well
Earnestness is not what saves us. We must remember to hold to the commands of God and hold loosely (if at all) to the traditions of humans.
We must remember outward appearances count for nothing. Rather, it is what is on the inside that matters.
The disciples were human in their attitudes and actions - they looked at outward appearances, whilst God looked at the heart.
Jesus has a real sense of calling to Israelites, but He shows graciousness to the woman in the midst of her circumstances.
The deaf man would have wondered what Jesus was doing, however, they showed him how Jesus graciously responds to the needs he has.
Friends are the people responsible for bringing those who can't help themselves to Jesus. We should do the same.
8:1-9 Jesus demonstrates His compassion. He shows concern and care, and He completely satisfies.
Jesus used the bread as an example - He was aware of the dangers of the Pharisees and of Herod. He warns against both.
To bring someone else to Jesus, we recognise He is all they need, not us.
We must remember outward appearances count for nothing. Rather, it is what is on the inside that matters.
The disciples were human in their attitudes and actions - they looked at outward appearances, whilst God looked at the heart.
Jesus has a real sense of calling to Israelites, but He shows graciousness to the woman in the midst of her circumstances.
The deaf man would have wondered what Jesus was doing, however, they showed him how Jesus graciously responds to the needs he has.
Friends are the people responsible for bringing those who can't help themselves to Jesus. We should do the same.
8:1-9 Jesus demonstrates His compassion. He shows concern and care, and He completely satisfies.
Jesus used the bread as an example - He was aware of the dangers of the Pharisees and of Herod. He warns against both.
To bring someone else to Jesus, we recognise He is all they need, not us.
Wednesday, 29 May 2013
Mark 5:21-6:56 Fear & faith
To enjoy the experience of Christ's saving power, we must have faith. It is often lacking because we view ourselves, rather than Christ Himself. Faith must resist unbelief or self-belief.
The disciples were puzzled in 5:30 by Jesus' question, as the crowds were huge. Jesus waited to see the woman's faith in action. Her actions demonstrated faith in the midst of hostility and cynicism.
Jesus' methods of preparation were clear instructions/strategy, a demonstration of faith and a sense of authority from God. There was an importance to community and going to those whom God had chosen.
Herod's character was populist - he did only what would bring him acceptance and favour. He was dishonourable.
In feeding the 5000, the disciples had to learn they were incapable and human ways were impossible. They also needed to realise that only Jesus could provide so that the people were fully satisfied.
The disciples got into difficulty because they obeyed Christ's command. Jesus requires that we call out for Him - He only comes when we want Him.
The disciples were puzzled in 5:30 by Jesus' question, as the crowds were huge. Jesus waited to see the woman's faith in action. Her actions demonstrated faith in the midst of hostility and cynicism.
Jesus' methods of preparation were clear instructions/strategy, a demonstration of faith and a sense of authority from God. There was an importance to community and going to those whom God had chosen.
Herod's character was populist - he did only what would bring him acceptance and favour. He was dishonourable.
In feeding the 5000, the disciples had to learn they were incapable and human ways were impossible. They also needed to realise that only Jesus could provide so that the people were fully satisfied.
The disciples got into difficulty because they obeyed Christ's command. Jesus requires that we call out for Him - He only comes when we want Him.
Tuesday, 28 May 2013
Mark 4:1-5:20 Seeds sown, miracles shown
The seed sown will land on different soil, and only some will bear fruit. The Kingdom will come to those whom God has given it. Success is only shown by fruit that bears more fruit and proves the test of time.
I need to be repeatedly asking "Is the word of God bearing fruit in my life and in others?" - if not, then I need to ask if it really is taking root.
The responsibility rests on the hearer - we must use what we are given to bring glory to God through obedience. We thus have spiritual privilege that must lead to spiritual progress.
Jesus came to bring seed to be sown, but His second coming will be to return for His harvest. We need to remember that we are here to bear fruit.
The disciples were surprised that Jesus didn't seem to care, but He was surprised they were so afraid and seemed to have no faith. They were so fearful of their own lives that this miracle seemed much more personal to them.
Jesus showed compassion and care, when others had no time for him. When you can't explain something, the natural response is going to be one of fear, which explains why the crowds asked Him to leave.
It may be the best form of witness to leave when people want you to.
I need to be repeatedly asking "Is the word of God bearing fruit in my life and in others?" - if not, then I need to ask if it really is taking root.
The responsibility rests on the hearer - we must use what we are given to bring glory to God through obedience. We thus have spiritual privilege that must lead to spiritual progress.
Jesus came to bring seed to be sown, but His second coming will be to return for His harvest. We need to remember that we are here to bear fruit.
The disciples were surprised that Jesus didn't seem to care, but He was surprised they were so afraid and seemed to have no faith. They were so fearful of their own lives that this miracle seemed much more personal to them.
Jesus showed compassion and care, when others had no time for him. When you can't explain something, the natural response is going to be one of fear, which explains why the crowds asked Him to leave.
It may be the best form of witness to leave when people want you to.
Monday, 27 May 2013
Mark 3:7-35 Fear & loathing in Galilee
Jesus knew the potential of being crowded out by the urgency of the masses. He withdrew, as was his wont. He took His disciples - He kept the main thing the main thing, only committing to those who were His core business.
Twelve disciples later become apostles - they started as learners and then became those on a mission. We must remember this in our own lives.
His family were those who apparently were concerned about Jesus' mental state.
His response shows the absurdity of their belief/assertion.
It shows that His power comes from God Himself.
He then gives a warning that if they are not careful they will commit the eternal sin.
Jesus recognises who His family are, but also says there are His spiritual kinsmen. He wants people to know they can belong to His family by doing God's will.
In chs 1-3, Jesus comes across as being hassled by crowds, but completely focused on God's task and the priority of spending time doing His Father's will.
Jesus provokes reactions of hatred, hostility, humility and gratitude. We must remember this will always be the case.
Twelve disciples later become apostles - they started as learners and then became those on a mission. We must remember this in our own lives.
His family were those who apparently were concerned about Jesus' mental state.
His response shows the absurdity of their belief/assertion.
It shows that His power comes from God Himself.
He then gives a warning that if they are not careful they will commit the eternal sin.
Jesus recognises who His family are, but also says there are His spiritual kinsmen. He wants people to know they can belong to His family by doing God's will.
In chs 1-3, Jesus comes across as being hassled by crowds, but completely focused on God's task and the priority of spending time doing His Father's will.
Jesus provokes reactions of hatred, hostility, humility and gratitude. We must remember this will always be the case.
Sunday, 26 May 2013
Mark 1:16-3:6 The Costly Callings
Jesus' authority exercised:
In His call to Simon and Andrew - calling them to leave their nets, which they immediately do, then James and John.
Jesus' authority is shown in His teaching and His casting out of evil spirits. He then shows His authority in healing many and various diseases and driving out demons.
The Galilean fisherman were to become personal soul-winners by leaving what they knew and changing it to fishing people. The conditions were unconditional surrender and absolute obedience.
Jesus' first thought is to get up and spend time alone in prayer - He attempts to do this, but various hinderances stop Him - the disciples, the crowds, the leprous man. We are now commanded to go into all the world - we MUST be obedient to Jesus' command and call.
Jesus could see beyond the crowd. He could see beyond what people's outward appearance was and could see what people were thinking. He responded accordingly He was proving He really is God.
Jesus always responded simply by showing in different ways that He is God - people will always have questions, God will always have answers. Whether people will take time to listen is another matter.
Jesus was above the laws - He is the Lord of all. He left those who judged Him as those condemned, rather than those they thought were sinful. Jesus often surprises.
In His call to Simon and Andrew - calling them to leave their nets, which they immediately do, then James and John.
Jesus' authority is shown in His teaching and His casting out of evil spirits. He then shows His authority in healing many and various diseases and driving out demons.
The Galilean fisherman were to become personal soul-winners by leaving what they knew and changing it to fishing people. The conditions were unconditional surrender and absolute obedience.
Jesus' first thought is to get up and spend time alone in prayer - He attempts to do this, but various hinderances stop Him - the disciples, the crowds, the leprous man. We are now commanded to go into all the world - we MUST be obedient to Jesus' command and call.
Jesus could see beyond the crowd. He could see beyond what people's outward appearance was and could see what people were thinking. He responded accordingly He was proving He really is God.
Jesus always responded simply by showing in different ways that He is God - people will always have questions, God will always have answers. Whether people will take time to listen is another matter.
Jesus was above the laws - He is the Lord of all. He left those who judged Him as those condemned, rather than those they thought were sinful. Jesus often surprises.
Saturday, 25 May 2013
Numbers 32-35, Mark 1:1-15 Bloodshed and atonement & The Beginning of THE Good News
Ch 32 Reuben & Gad wanted to stay where there were & not fight. Moses was concerned that they were being lazy and simply wanting to reap the benefits of what their countrymen would achieve.
Moses would only grant them concessions if they would be willing to fight for the Lord - they needed to fight to receive any benefit.
Numb 32:23 is a fantastic verse reminding us of the permanence of sin's consequences - they are ever-present and wreak havoc in one's life. Sin is not to be trifled with.
Ch 33 Moses takes note of each of the stages of the journey, as he has been commanded to by the Lord.
The reminder of Israel's entry into the promised land is that it was not rushed, but rather was something they had taken their time over. They were to be holy and wholly ready for what God was bringing to them.
Ch 35 God's standards of holiness are the highest of high and cannot be fudged, although He still has room for His grace and mercy.
Mark 1:1 The good news - different from just a biography, this is good news about God.
John the Baptist anticipated repentance and the forgiveness of sins. He also foretold the coming of the Holy Spirit.
Jesus preached the good news of God - His Kingdom is near, repentance & belief of the good news was to happen.
Father, Son & Spirit are all active in this early section of Mark, along with Satan. It's a reminder that the work of God is Trinitarian, but not without significant opposition from the Evil One.
Moses would only grant them concessions if they would be willing to fight for the Lord - they needed to fight to receive any benefit.
Numb 32:23 is a fantastic verse reminding us of the permanence of sin's consequences - they are ever-present and wreak havoc in one's life. Sin is not to be trifled with.
Ch 33 Moses takes note of each of the stages of the journey, as he has been commanded to by the Lord.
The reminder of Israel's entry into the promised land is that it was not rushed, but rather was something they had taken their time over. They were to be holy and wholly ready for what God was bringing to them.
Ch 35 God's standards of holiness are the highest of high and cannot be fudged, although He still has room for His grace and mercy.
Mark 1:1 The good news - different from just a biography, this is good news about God.
John the Baptist anticipated repentance and the forgiveness of sins. He also foretold the coming of the Holy Spirit.
Jesus preached the good news of God - His Kingdom is near, repentance & belief of the good news was to happen.
Father, Son & Spirit are all active in this early section of Mark, along with Satan. It's a reminder that the work of God is Trinitarian, but not without significant opposition from the Evil One.
Friday, 24 May 2013
Numbers 28-31 A bloody mess.
Chs 28-29
28:3-8 Daily sacrifice - morning & evening - one lamb at each, grain offering, drink offering.
Sabbath - 2 x lambs
New moon - 2 x young bulls, 1 ram, 7 male lambs - all without defect
Feast of unleavened bread & Passover - 2 bulls, ram, 7 male lambs - all without defect
Feast of weeks - 2 bulls, 1 ram, 7 male lambs - all without defect
Day of Atonement - 1 young bull, 1 ram, 7 male lambs - all without defect
Feast of Tabernacles - 13 young bulls, 2 rams, 14 male lambs - all without defect
The sacrifices were there as an annual reminder that the blood of animals never could take away sins - it required one who had been sinned against to come and to make full atonement. Only Jesus could do this.
Ch 30
What we say is important - we should let our 'yes' be 'yes' & our 'no' be 'no'.
A woman's relationship with father and husband should be honourable. We are to have dignity and honour in our relationships.
Ch 31
As Christians, we are to deal with sin as severely - cf Col 3:5-11.
The chapter is a reminder of the dependency we have on each other. No man is an island. We need each other and to care for each other.
28:3-8 Daily sacrifice - morning & evening - one lamb at each, grain offering, drink offering.
Sabbath - 2 x lambs
New moon - 2 x young bulls, 1 ram, 7 male lambs - all without defect
Feast of unleavened bread & Passover - 2 bulls, ram, 7 male lambs - all without defect
Feast of weeks - 2 bulls, 1 ram, 7 male lambs - all without defect
Day of Atonement - 1 young bull, 1 ram, 7 male lambs - all without defect
Feast of Tabernacles - 13 young bulls, 2 rams, 14 male lambs - all without defect
The sacrifices were there as an annual reminder that the blood of animals never could take away sins - it required one who had been sinned against to come and to make full atonement. Only Jesus could do this.
Ch 30
What we say is important - we should let our 'yes' be 'yes' & our 'no' be 'no'.
A woman's relationship with father and husband should be honourable. We are to have dignity and honour in our relationships.
Ch 31
As Christians, we are to deal with sin as severely - cf Col 3:5-11.
The chapter is a reminder of the dependency we have on each other. No man is an island. We need each other and to care for each other.
Thursday, 23 May 2013
Numbers 25-27 & 36 Maintaining the Lord's honour
Ch 25-26
Maintaining the honour of the Lord
Sin is serious – we must never
underestimate how serious God views our offences against Him.
1 Cor 10:6-12 reminds us why they are there
– to teach us not to set our hearts on evil things.
Phineas was stirred to respond by desiring
God’s holiness and being disturbed by human sinfulness.
Do I see both with equal clarity?
Ch 26
Ch 26
Not one of the people counted by Moses and Aaron remained – except Caleb & Joshua. God is capable of proving His point and remaining with those who trust Him, against all odds!
Ch 27 & 36
Zelophehad’s daughters wanted to keep his
name going – they wanted the inheritance to continue and property to remain in
the family.
Moses’ over-riding concern before his death
was that there would be a succession – that someone would be ready to take over
from him, so that God’s people would not be without a shepherd.
Moses was being called to take the initial
lead. Joshua was being asked to take up
the baton. Both were required to trust
God entirely.
Wednesday, 22 May 2013
Numbers 22-24 God's Words must be spoken!
Ch 22
God uses all sorts of means and methods to demonstrate His ways and paths. Some of these are completely out of the ordinary and unexpected, some are just in the mundane and routine. We must never close our eyes or ears to the things God is saying.
The chink in Balaam's armour was his disobedience to God without even realising it. He did not understand or see the ways of God - God was blessing whilst Balaam was cursing. Be careful with the temptations you fall into - guard your heart carefully.
Ch 23-24 Balaam's oracles:
God's special purposes for & care of the people of Israel:
God has not cursed Israel
God has not denounced Israel
God has blessed Israel - that cannot be changed
No misery is observed in Israel
The Lord their God is with them, the shout of the King among them, God brought them out of Egypt
They have the strength of a wild ox
The people of Israel will rise like a lioness
Their tents are beautiful, their dwelling places
They will know and enjoy abundance
God brought them out of Egypt
They will know blessing
Balaam was now understanding & knowing God's hand of goodness on the Israelites. He was in control and blessing them.
Ch 23-24 Balaam as spokesman for God and minister of His word
Balaam recognises the awesome responsibility - He can only say what God says & will not swerve from it either way.
For us, there is a compulsion to preach - we can only say what God says. God's words are the ones that bring life
God uses all sorts of means and methods to demonstrate His ways and paths. Some of these are completely out of the ordinary and unexpected, some are just in the mundane and routine. We must never close our eyes or ears to the things God is saying.
The chink in Balaam's armour was his disobedience to God without even realising it. He did not understand or see the ways of God - God was blessing whilst Balaam was cursing. Be careful with the temptations you fall into - guard your heart carefully.
Ch 23-24 Balaam's oracles:
God's special purposes for & care of the people of Israel:
God has not cursed Israel
God has not denounced Israel
God has blessed Israel - that cannot be changed
No misery is observed in Israel
The Lord their God is with them, the shout of the King among them, God brought them out of Egypt
They have the strength of a wild ox
The people of Israel will rise like a lioness
Their tents are beautiful, their dwelling places
They will know and enjoy abundance
God brought them out of Egypt
They will know blessing
Balaam was now understanding & knowing God's hand of goodness on the Israelites. He was in control and blessing them.
Ch 23-24 Balaam as spokesman for God and minister of His word
Balaam recognises the awesome responsibility - He can only say what God says & will not swerve from it either way.
For us, there is a compulsion to preach - we can only say what God says. God's words are the ones that bring life
Tuesday, 21 May 2013
Numbers 18:8-21 Little things matter to God
18:8-32 The offerings that are holy & belong by right to God are also the Israelites. God has His say over them, but we are to consider them our own.
19:1-10 The sacrifice is costly - it means the person sacrificing it will be unclean and must cleanse himself. The blood will be shed and it will make a cleansing from sin.
Ch 20 Moses and Aaron once again are forced to come before God acknowledging their need and their only hope in Him. However, they also fail in this and don't trust God enough to honour Him as holy.
Do I see honour God as holy in the everyday dealings of my life?
In the same way as ch 21, we repeatedly fail and turn away from Jesus to ourselves and our own way of doing things. We must come back to the Christ of the cross - the One who was lifted up so that we might live.
The Israelites are repeatedly failing, yet God is continually gracious and good. It is a slow road to obedience, but God never tires.
19:1-10 The sacrifice is costly - it means the person sacrificing it will be unclean and must cleanse himself. The blood will be shed and it will make a cleansing from sin.
Ch 20 Moses and Aaron once again are forced to come before God acknowledging their need and their only hope in Him. However, they also fail in this and don't trust God enough to honour Him as holy.
Do I see honour God as holy in the everyday dealings of my life?
In the same way as ch 21, we repeatedly fail and turn away from Jesus to ourselves and our own way of doing things. We must come back to the Christ of the cross - the One who was lifted up so that we might live.
The Israelites are repeatedly failing, yet God is continually gracious and good. It is a slow road to obedience, but God never tires.
Monday, 20 May 2013
Numbers 15-18:7 The seriousness of sin & the awesomeness of God
Ch 15
v1-21 Making offerings that are a pleasing aroma to the Lord is essential. We do as God pleases, not as we ourselves choose.
For those who sinned defiantly, there was no way back - they were to be cut off. This was because the Lord's word was being despised and broken and their guilt remaining with them. It is a rejection of who God is and all His character and promises.
The deliberate law-breaker had to be taken by the assembly and dealt with. We deal with sin in community, never in isolation.
Ch 16:1-35
Korah's rebellion was that Moses and Aaron had gone too far - they had set themselves up above God's assembly.
Dathan & Abiram's rebellion was against Moses' command - they argued that he had come to lord it over them and so they disobeyed him.
In both cases, the rebels were setting themselves up against the Lord's chosen leader. In the process, God is rebelled against and sinned against. Sin is serious and therefore must be dealt with seriously.
Ch 17
The exclusive Aaronite priesthood is strengthened and confirmed by the rebellion against him, but God's confirmation that he is His chosen means. Aaron is the one who stands between the living and the dead. He illustrates what Christ does in mediating for us.
Our service to God is nothing more than a gift - anything more is a work to gain us righteousness, which it never could do.
v1-21 Making offerings that are a pleasing aroma to the Lord is essential. We do as God pleases, not as we ourselves choose.
For those who sinned defiantly, there was no way back - they were to be cut off. This was because the Lord's word was being despised and broken and their guilt remaining with them. It is a rejection of who God is and all His character and promises.
The deliberate law-breaker had to be taken by the assembly and dealt with. We deal with sin in community, never in isolation.
Ch 16:1-35
Korah's rebellion was that Moses and Aaron had gone too far - they had set themselves up above God's assembly.
Dathan & Abiram's rebellion was against Moses' command - they argued that he had come to lord it over them and so they disobeyed him.
In both cases, the rebels were setting themselves up against the Lord's chosen leader. In the process, God is rebelled against and sinned against. Sin is serious and therefore must be dealt with seriously.
Ch 17
The exclusive Aaronite priesthood is strengthened and confirmed by the rebellion against him, but God's confirmation that he is His chosen means. Aaron is the one who stands between the living and the dead. He illustrates what Christ does in mediating for us.
Our service to God is nothing more than a gift - anything more is a work to gain us righteousness, which it never could do.
Sunday, 19 May 2013
Numbers 11-14 Rabble v God
The clarity of those who follow God and obey His ways closely is shown. Moses obeys and lives according to God's ways, although even he gets it wrong. Ultimately, only God can be trusted. In different ways, the rabble, Joshua, Miriam and Aaron all get it wrong.
God graciously deals with each problem, according to His good character. He is faithful to who He is.
The spies went and discovered a land that was great, vast and plentiful, but took their eyes off God.
Ch 14 We must remember Moses' prayer - coming before God and recognising the importance of circumstances, but the prevailing goodness and purposes of God.
God graciously deals with each problem, according to His good character. He is faithful to who He is.
The spies went and discovered a land that was great, vast and plentiful, but took their eyes off God.
Ch 14 We must remember Moses' prayer - coming before God and recognising the importance of circumstances, but the prevailing goodness and purposes of God.
Saturday, 18 May 2013
Numbers 6:22-10:36 The costliness of sacrifice
Going with God's blessing, His protection and face shining on them was what it meant to have God's Name upon them. The blessing ensured this.
Ch 7 - the reminder that the offerings were costly and significant was important for the Israelites. These were no insignificant momentary gifts, but things that would have taken much dedication and cost.
Ch 8 - reinforces that the Israelites are a separate, holy people. The Levites were to be set apart as a people, set apart for God. The Levites were to be set apart for God, they worked under the High Priest and served the people.
Ch 9 - reminds us of the importance of the Passover. God Himself required that the Israelites remembered the Passover - it was significant to them.
Moses was to seek God's face, finding out what He wanted and how they were supposed to do things. It is a reminder to us of the importance of keeping close to God in the midst of leadership.
God's presence to guide us - we can be assured of His presence with us, as we obey Him...however, we must obey His every call.
Ch 10 is a reminder that although God leads us, we are expected to do things ourselves also. We are not just passive observers, but active participants in God's big picture!
The trumpets are a reminder of commemoration and celebration. God remembers and acts.
Ch 7 - the reminder that the offerings were costly and significant was important for the Israelites. These were no insignificant momentary gifts, but things that would have taken much dedication and cost.
Ch 8 - reinforces that the Israelites are a separate, holy people. The Levites were to be set apart as a people, set apart for God. The Levites were to be set apart for God, they worked under the High Priest and served the people.
Ch 9 - reminds us of the importance of the Passover. God Himself required that the Israelites remembered the Passover - it was significant to them.
Moses was to seek God's face, finding out what He wanted and how they were supposed to do things. It is a reminder to us of the importance of keeping close to God in the midst of leadership.
God's presence to guide us - we can be assured of His presence with us, as we obey Him...however, we must obey His every call.
Ch 10 is a reminder that although God leads us, we are expected to do things ourselves also. We are not just passive observers, but active participants in God's big picture!
The trumpets are a reminder of commemoration and celebration. God remembers and acts.
Friday, 17 May 2013
Numbers 1-6:21 War & worship
Ch 1 & 2 War & worship
Preparations must be made that worship God, but prepare oneself for war. The Christian life is about war & worship.
The tribes must be ordered to remind the uniqueness of each tribe, but also the unity of being together.
Ch 3-4
Each of the families of Levites was assigned different tasks. The Kohathites were to take the Tabernacle down, the Gershonites were to carry the Tabernacle covers etc and the Merarites were to carry the frames of the Tabernacle.
The Levites were representing the Priests. The first-born were to be symbolic and given over to God.
4:1-20 is a reminder of the awesome holiness of God. God is not to be trifled with or messed with.
Ch 5
The camp was to remain pure -
Those who were impure, doing or done wrong, or were unfaithful in marriage were to be put out of the camp. However, there were to be tests to see if the person was being pure or not.
Ch 6
The Nazirite was to be given over to God completely. We are to be asking ourselves if we are given over completely to God or not.
Ch 3-4
Each of the families of Levites was assigned different tasks. The Kohathites were to take the Tabernacle down, the Gershonites were to carry the Tabernacle covers etc and the Merarites were to carry the frames of the Tabernacle.
The Levites were representing the Priests. The first-born were to be symbolic and given over to God.
4:1-20 is a reminder of the awesome holiness of God. God is not to be trifled with or messed with.
Ch 5
The camp was to remain pure -
Those who were impure, doing or done wrong, or were unfaithful in marriage were to be put out of the camp. However, there were to be tests to see if the person was being pure or not.
Ch 6
The Nazirite was to be given over to God completely. We are to be asking ourselves if we are given over completely to God or not.
Thursday, 16 May 2013
Hebrews 13 Live like a Christian!
Aspects of Christian duty implied:
Love
Hospitality
Persecution
Marital holiness
Freedom from the love of money
Contentedness
Humble followership
Doctrinal faithfulness
v5,6,8
Remember God has promised to be with us whatever
Remember God is our helper and we need not be afraid what humans can do to us
Remember God is unchanging from yesterday, today & forever
God's presence, God's protection, God's unchanging nature
v7 Remember your leaders & look how what the outcome of their lives was - imitate their faith.
Remember your old Jewish connections are not worthless. However, remember they are not where you are now. We now come to Christ, who is the fulfillment of the law.
v 15,16, 20, 21
God will equip us with everything good for doing His will. He will work in us what is pleasing to Him and will get the glory!
Love
Hospitality
Persecution
Marital holiness
Freedom from the love of money
Contentedness
Humble followership
Doctrinal faithfulness
v5,6,8
Remember God has promised to be with us whatever
Remember God is our helper and we need not be afraid what humans can do to us
Remember God is unchanging from yesterday, today & forever
God's presence, God's protection, God's unchanging nature
v7 Remember your leaders & look how what the outcome of their lives was - imitate their faith.
Remember your old Jewish connections are not worthless. However, remember they are not where you are now. We now come to Christ, who is the fulfillment of the law.
v 15,16, 20, 21
God will equip us with everything good for doing His will. He will work in us what is pleasing to Him and will get the glory!
Tuesday, 14 May 2013
Hebrews 11:23-12:29 Faith!
Moses looked ahead & saw Christ. He chose to reject the pleasures of the world to enjoy disgrace and ill-treatment for the sake of Christ. He sided with the Israelites when joining the Egyptians would have been easier.
4 different steps & stages of faith v28-31
Keeping God's commands
Obeying God
Trusting God
Accepting God
Is the world worthy of the way I behave? Do I exhibit radical faith in every area of my life?
The Christian race demands discipline & focus. Rid yourself of sin, run the race marked for you, fix your eyes on Jesus!
God provides hardship as a discipline for us - it challenges us, rebukes us, encourages us & reminds us to keep on going. God is doing it for our good!
If we are slack and careless, we will be at risk of falling to sin - don't succumb!
Our Christian privileges excel the Israelite experiences at Sinai
Not at a mountain, darkness, gloom or storm, trumpet blast, but rather to Mount Zion - the city of the Living God! A joyful assembly, coming to God, the Judge of all people - to Jesus who speaks a better word than all the blood of Abel!
There is coming judgment - and this is good news. God has promised judgment will happen and therefore, we must remember it is coming and live accordingly.
4 different steps & stages of faith v28-31
Keeping God's commands
Obeying God
Trusting God
Accepting God
Is the world worthy of the way I behave? Do I exhibit radical faith in every area of my life?
The Christian race demands discipline & focus. Rid yourself of sin, run the race marked for you, fix your eyes on Jesus!
God provides hardship as a discipline for us - it challenges us, rebukes us, encourages us & reminds us to keep on going. God is doing it for our good!
If we are slack and careless, we will be at risk of falling to sin - don't succumb!
Our Christian privileges excel the Israelite experiences at Sinai
Not at a mountain, darkness, gloom or storm, trumpet blast, but rather to Mount Zion - the city of the Living God! A joyful assembly, coming to God, the Judge of all people - to Jesus who speaks a better word than all the blood of Abel!
There is coming judgment - and this is good news. God has promised judgment will happen and therefore, we must remember it is coming and live accordingly.
Monday, 13 May 2013
Hebrews 10-11:22 Sacrifices can never take away sins
Contrasts between the sacrifice of Christ & those of the tabernacle:
Tabernacle - have to be repeated endlessly year after year & still can't make perfect
Impossible to successfully take away sins
Not desired by God & not pleasing to Him
Christ - once for all, completed
Completely takes away sins
Jesus - the epitome of God's will
Brings holiness
Christ's sacrifice means He was perfectly acceptable to the Father, doing His will. And thus, to us, we are made holy by it. His enemies are made His footstool and we are brought into fellowship with Him. The Holy Spirit testifies to this.
10:19-25
Draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith
Hold unswervingly to the hope we profess
Consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds
Don't give up meeting together
Encourage one another & more so as you see the Day approaching
Once we have received God's light, the only alternative to going on with God is to trample Him under foot & receive judgment for this. (v26-39) On the basis of those earlier days when they received the light, the writer expects them to continue.
Our lives are to be lives of faith - we are to be sure and seeking the things we hope for and certain of them.
v7-16 Faith was aware of God's coming Kingdom - His judgment, His rewards & lives in light of those.
v17-19 Abraham was aware that God's promise was true, even if it felt like it was going to be at odds with His command. He trusted God in spite of appearances.
Tabernacle - have to be repeated endlessly year after year & still can't make perfect
Impossible to successfully take away sins
Not desired by God & not pleasing to Him
Christ - once for all, completed
Completely takes away sins
Jesus - the epitome of God's will
Brings holiness
Christ's sacrifice means He was perfectly acceptable to the Father, doing His will. And thus, to us, we are made holy by it. His enemies are made His footstool and we are brought into fellowship with Him. The Holy Spirit testifies to this.
10:19-25
Draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith
Hold unswervingly to the hope we profess
Consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds
Don't give up meeting together
Encourage one another & more so as you see the Day approaching
Once we have received God's light, the only alternative to going on with God is to trample Him under foot & receive judgment for this. (v26-39) On the basis of those earlier days when they received the light, the writer expects them to continue.
Our lives are to be lives of faith - we are to be sure and seeking the things we hope for and certain of them.
v7-16 Faith was aware of God's coming Kingdom - His judgment, His rewards & lives in light of those.
v17-19 Abraham was aware that God's promise was true, even if it felt like it was going to be at odds with His command. He trusted God in spite of appearances.
Sunday, 12 May 2013
Hebrews 8-9 A new & better covenant
Jesus' ministry is "much more excellent" (superior). His is a once for all sacrifice, by a perfect High Priest, one who fully identifies with our weakness, yet was without sin. He is seated at the right hand of the Father, given the position of authority by the Father.
The first covenant failed because it could not adequately deal with sin. It had to be repeated time and again. From the Israelite's perspective, they did not believe and were hard-hearted.
The new covenant is superior, as it is founded on better promises.
The failure of the earthly sanctuary & its ceremonies (9:1-10)
It was not a once for all deal (v6)
The High Priest had to offer sacrifices for himself (v7)
They were unable to clear the conscience of the worshipper (v9)
v11-15 Jesus' ministry is better
He went through a greater, more perfect tabernacle that is not man-made.
He didn't enter by means of animals, but by His own blood, having obtained eternal redemption.
It is once for all.
The blood of Christ is unblemished and able to cleanse us.
9:15-23 Jesus' death was necessary b/c:
He was a ransom to set the people free from sins committed under the first covenant.
The law requires the cleansing with blood.
Without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness.
v24-28 Jesus didn't enter a man-made sanctuary. He entered heaven itself, God's presence. He did this once for all with blood that was His own. He died so that we may receive salvation not judgment because of Him!
The first covenant failed because it could not adequately deal with sin. It had to be repeated time and again. From the Israelite's perspective, they did not believe and were hard-hearted.
The new covenant is superior, as it is founded on better promises.
The failure of the earthly sanctuary & its ceremonies (9:1-10)
It was not a once for all deal (v6)
The High Priest had to offer sacrifices for himself (v7)
They were unable to clear the conscience of the worshipper (v9)
v11-15 Jesus' ministry is better
He went through a greater, more perfect tabernacle that is not man-made.
He didn't enter by means of animals, but by His own blood, having obtained eternal redemption.
It is once for all.
The blood of Christ is unblemished and able to cleanse us.
9:15-23 Jesus' death was necessary b/c:
He was a ransom to set the people free from sins committed under the first covenant.
The law requires the cleansing with blood.
Without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness.
v24-28 Jesus didn't enter a man-made sanctuary. He entered heaven itself, God's presence. He did this once for all with blood that was His own. He died so that we may receive salvation not judgment because of Him!
Saturday, 11 May 2013
Hebrews 6:9-7:28 A better hope introduced!
6:9-12 The writer is sure of God's justice and memory. He will not forget the work and love shown to Him by helping His people. He wants them to continue to show this diligence to the end.
We are those who work for God's glory - we work for Him and because of Him.
v13-20 If we have made Christ our refuge, we can be sure of Him - He did so with Abraham, He has sworn by Himself, His promise is unchanging. Jesus is an anchor - rooted firmly and unmovable.
Melchizedek is greater than Abraham and consequently also the Levitical priesthood b/c Abraham blessed Him. He did not trace His descent from Levi. He belonged to a different tribe. Psalm 110:4 promised that this new order of Priesthood would come and that the Levitical priesthood would not be here forever. The Priesthood has changed and so implicitly, there must also be a change of law (cf: 7:12).
v15-25 Distinctives:
The new priest appears on the basis of an indestructible life. A better hope is introduced, which is part of a better covenant. Because Jesus lives forever, He has a permanent priesthood. God is therefore able to save completely those who come to Him because He always lives to intercede for them.
v23-28 In Jesus, we have a High Priest who meets our need - He is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners and exalted above the heavens. He doesn't need to repeatedly offer sacrifices, either for Himself or others, but rather, he has done so once for all. The Son is perfect forever!
Friday, 10 May 2013
Hebrews 3:7-4:13 Move on and grow!
3:7-4:2 We are warned against hardening our hearts as the Israelites did in the desert. They were overtaken because God had promised they would not see His rest. We must avoid hardening our hearts and ensure we hold firmly to Christ in the same we started to.
4:1-13 God uses His word to penetrate to the core of us. He judges our thoughts & attitudes - uncovering everything.
Jesus the Great High Priest has gone through the heavens and is able to sympathise fully with all we go through - therefore, we can approach the throne of grace with confidence knowing that the mercy and grace we need is there.
5:1-10 The High Priest is selected from among men and is appointed to represent them in relation to God. Christ possesses these characteristic in a far greater way than any human ever could. He therefore becomes the source of eternal salvation for all who obey Him.
The writer complains in Hebrews 5:11-14 that the readers have not moved on from elementary teachings, but rather have stayed immature. The foundation of the gospel are the basics of Christ and His cross - they must grow on this foundation. However, for those who reject Him, they are effectively crucifying Christ again.
Thursday, 9 May 2013
Hebrews 1-3:6 Jesus is best!
1:1-4 Statements about Christ:
God speaks through Him
He was appointed heir of all things by the Father
Through Him God made the universe
He is the radiance of God's glory
He is the exact representation of His being
He sustains all things by His powerful word
He provided purification for sins
He sat at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.
Jesus is proved to be superior:
He is the Father's Son
God demands we worship Him
His throne will last forever
He has been set above His companions
His years will never end
Jesus is better than any angel!
2:1-4. If Jesus is so important, we need to stay close to Him. His message is binding and we will receive punishment if we drift from it.
We were created to be willing subjects before Jesus. Jesus took that path humbling Himself so that we could be reconciled to Him.
As Christians, we are to fix our eyes on Jesus - apostle and High Priest.
Jesus is better than Moses - Jesus was faithful to the One who appointed Him, He built the house, He is son of the house,
Wednesday, 8 May 2013
Leviticus 25-27 Obey the Lord!
Ch 25
The jubilee year was every 50th year. It was to proclaim liberty and freedom. Jesus is our Jubilee - He sets us free and our debts cancelled.
We are not to take advantage of each other, but to fear God.
Remember we are just aliens and tenants.
Help each other out.
Don't abuse each other.
Remember what God has done for you.
Remember you all belong to God.
Ch 26 God's promise is one of walking with us if we are obedient to Him and punishing us for disobedience. If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just and will forgive us and cleanse us.
All we have may be redeemed, however redemption is costly and we must only seek to redeem those things of value.
God requires absolute obedience and devotion to Him. No half measures.
Tuesday, 7 May 2013
Leviticus 21-24 Holiness, justice and mercy
"Holy to their God", "holy", "I am The Lord" are all repeated expressions. We must remember God's oiliness and who He is and thus behave accordingly.
A number of these sins would be classed as not so serious by many. God sees each as defiling and enough to separate us from Him. They are all serious and require atonement. My sins likewise, no matter how small I feel they are are serious and need sorting before God.
Ch 23 Feasts:
Passover
Feast of unleavened bread - rest, do no regular work, do not eat, make sacrifices
Feast of weeks - present lambs, rams, bulls, goats as sacrifices, do no regular work
Feast of trumpets - do no regular work
Day of atonement - deny yourself, do no work
Feast of tabernacles - do no work, make sacrifices, rejoice before the Lord, live in booths,
The various feasts have similarities of sacrifice and rest. They express devotion to God in giving what we have and giving up what we can.
NT parallels of the feasts:
Passover - communion 1 Cor 5:7-8
Pentecost (Feast of Weeks) - when the Spirit came Acts 2:1-4
Feast of Tabernacles - great multitude before the Throne - Rev 7:9-10
Ch24:1-9 Pure & continually - vital themes in our worship and service
God's holiness, justice and mercy are presented in these chapters all together
Monday, 6 May 2013
Leviticus 17-20 I am the Lord
Ch 17:
Israel was to realise that God had His ways that things were to be done - He was to be obeyed and trusted. The reminder is there that the sacrifice is before the Lord.
The life of the creature was in the blood - hence it was strictly forbidden. It was there to make atonement for oneself.
Ch 18:
Israel must keep the Lord's commands, because He is the Lord - He decides what is right and what is wrong.
The holiness of God is exhibited in this chapter, which explains the extermination of the Canaanites later. It is to do with obedience to Him, entirely.
Ch 19-20 The holiness of God is given as the grounds for obedience. Do we need more?
These commands remind us that there is no other God before God. Do I truly believe and act on this?
Israel was to realise that God had His ways that things were to be done - He was to be obeyed and trusted. The reminder is there that the sacrifice is before the Lord.
The life of the creature was in the blood - hence it was strictly forbidden. It was there to make atonement for oneself.
Ch 18:
Israel must keep the Lord's commands, because He is the Lord - He decides what is right and what is wrong.
The holiness of God is exhibited in this chapter, which explains the extermination of the Canaanites later. It is to do with obedience to Him, entirely.
Ch 19-20 The holiness of God is given as the grounds for obedience. Do we need more?
These commands remind us that there is no other God before God. Do I truly believe and act on this?
Sunday, 5 May 2013
Leviticus 13:47-16 Rules & regulations
13:47-59
Sin contamination in habits and practices is considered serious & far-reaching. It is not to be tolerated or ignored.
The leper in the NT had to be cleansed from the defilement of his leprosy - you need to be a completely new creation.
Sin is serious - wherever it is found, whatever its form, it defiles. Ch 15 is all about the defilement of secret sins. It pollutes everything around it and needs cleansing and atonement as with the other sins.
The order of ceremonies for the day of Atonement:
With a young bull for a sin offering
Put on the sacred linen tunic w/ linen undergarments, tie the linen sash, put on the linen turban.
Take 2 male goats for a sin offering and a ram for a burnt offering.
Offer the bull for his (Aaron's) own sin offering
Take the 2 goats & present them before The Lord
Cast lots for the goats - one to be for the Lord, and the other as a Scapegoat
Offer the goat for The Lord, release the scapegoat into the desert.
Take a censer full of burning coals from the altar & 2 handfuls of incense, to take behind the curtain
Put the incense on the fire.
Take some of the bull's blood and put on his finger 7 times.
Slaughter the goat, take its blood behind the curtain.
Sprinkle the bull's blood on the atonement cover.
God is very particular about how He is to be approached. Sin is to be fully removed through substitution. Humans are to show their full penitence and remorse for their sin.
Sin contamination in habits and practices is considered serious & far-reaching. It is not to be tolerated or ignored.
The leper in the NT had to be cleansed from the defilement of his leprosy - you need to be a completely new creation.
Sin is serious - wherever it is found, whatever its form, it defiles. Ch 15 is all about the defilement of secret sins. It pollutes everything around it and needs cleansing and atonement as with the other sins.
The order of ceremonies for the day of Atonement:
With a young bull for a sin offering
Put on the sacred linen tunic w/ linen undergarments, tie the linen sash, put on the linen turban.
Take 2 male goats for a sin offering and a ram for a burnt offering.
Offer the bull for his (Aaron's) own sin offering
Take the 2 goats & present them before The Lord
Cast lots for the goats - one to be for the Lord, and the other as a Scapegoat
Offer the goat for The Lord, release the scapegoat into the desert.
Take a censer full of burning coals from the altar & 2 handfuls of incense, to take behind the curtain
Put the incense on the fire.
Take some of the bull's blood and put on his finger 7 times.
Slaughter the goat, take its blood behind the curtain.
Sprinkle the bull's blood on the atonement cover.
God is very particular about how He is to be approached. Sin is to be fully removed through substitution. Humans are to show their full penitence and remorse for their sin.
Saturday, 4 May 2013
Leviticus 9-13:46 Cleansing and atonement
Leviticus 9 Aaron's first offering was the sin offering and the burnt offering to make atonement for him and the people. Mercy needed to come through the atoning blood.
The offering was accepted and God showed His acceptance by showing His glory to all people.
Ch 10
Nadab and Abihu offered unauthorised fire before the Lord - therefore the fire came out and consumed them. He is not to be messed with. He chooses how things will be done and will reign supreme.
Ch 11
There are things that God considers holy and pure, and others that are considered unholy and impure.
The coming of God to dwell among them brought a change in behaviour - they were to be different people.
Mark 7:14-23 shows that Jesus was declaring foods clean to eat & saying these distinctions were no longer binding.
Ch 12-13
The child still had to be circumcised to be considered a Jew.
The plague of leprosy and the plague of sin both contaminate and exclude. As believers, we need to deal with our sin and be made clean.
The offering was accepted and God showed His acceptance by showing His glory to all people.
Ch 10
Nadab and Abihu offered unauthorised fire before the Lord - therefore the fire came out and consumed them. He is not to be messed with. He chooses how things will be done and will reign supreme.
Ch 11
There are things that God considers holy and pure, and others that are considered unholy and impure.
The coming of God to dwell among them brought a change in behaviour - they were to be different people.
Mark 7:14-23 shows that Jesus was declaring foods clean to eat & saying these distinctions were no longer binding.
Ch 12-13
The child still had to be circumcised to be considered a Jew.
The plague of leprosy and the plague of sin both contaminate and exclude. As believers, we need to deal with our sin and be made clean.
Friday, 3 May 2013
Leviticus 4-8 Instructions for sacrifice
Ch 4
The sin offering is for unintentional sins. The blood is what makes atonement for our sins.
The blood is shed, the blood is spread and poured out, which show that sin must be punished - there must be blood shed.
Ch 6
Neither the sacrifice or the fire was to fail. We must remember that Jesus will never fail.
Ch 7:11-21 Spontaneous gifts of their love for God
A fellowship offering as an expression of thankfulness
The sin offering is for unintentional sins. The blood is what makes atonement for our sins.
The blood is shed, the blood is spread and poured out, which show that sin must be punished - there must be blood shed.
Ch 6
Neither the sacrifice or the fire was to fail. We must remember that Jesus will never fail.
Ch 7:11-21 Spontaneous gifts of their love for God
A fellowship offering as an expression of thankfulness
A fellowship offering as a result of a vow or freewill offering
We bring a sacrifice of praise to God.
Ch 8
Aaron & his sons came before Moses to be sanctified. Then the ram.
The blood of the ram was sprinkled on the Priests. This was a reminder of them offering themselves before God.
Thursday, 2 May 2013
2 Timothy 4 A Crown of Righteousness Awaits, Leviticus 1 & 2
Ch 4:
Paul urges Timothy to fulfill his calling - to preach the Word, to do so discharging all the duties of His ministry.
Paul is aware of the past - He cannot change what has gone, but also sure of the future. He knows the day is coming when God will judge all.
Leviticus 1
The 2 outstanding features of the burnt offering:
Without defect v3, 10
Pleasing to the Lord v9, 13
The burnt offering was to make atonement for their sins (v4), it was to please the Lord, (v9, 13, 17).
Heb 7:26 shows that Jesus is the blameless sacrifice, possessing perfection.
The fellowship offering sacrificed blood, showing devotion to the Lord. Every part was offered to the Lord, with none remaining. Is this the way I come to God?
Paul urges Timothy to fulfill his calling - to preach the Word, to do so discharging all the duties of His ministry.
Paul is aware of the past - He cannot change what has gone, but also sure of the future. He knows the day is coming when God will judge all.
Leviticus 1
The 2 outstanding features of the burnt offering:
Without defect v3, 10
Pleasing to the Lord v9, 13
The burnt offering was to make atonement for their sins (v4), it was to please the Lord, (v9, 13, 17).
Heb 7:26 shows that Jesus is the blameless sacrifice, possessing perfection.
The fellowship offering sacrificed blood, showing devotion to the Lord. Every part was offered to the Lord, with none remaining. Is this the way I come to God?
Wednesday, 1 May 2013
2 Timothy 1-3 The pattern of ministry, a reminder of the gospel
Ch 1
Paul is certain of his calling and the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus.
He is sure of his legacy in Timothy.
He is sure of his gifting in God.
He is certain of the privilege of suffering for the gospel.
His knows for certain the promises of the gospel of Jesus.
The demands & cost of Christian ministry. Paul's counsel & exhortation:
Fan into flame the gift God has given you.
Don't be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me His prisoner. Join together in suffering for the gospel.
What you have heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus.
Guard the good deposit entrusted to you (with the help of the Holy Spirit).
The Christian home is vital in bringing sincere faith into our children's lives. cf 1:5, 3:14-15
Ch 2
v1-13 Be strong in grace, entrust what you have heard to others, who will be qualified to teach others, endure hardship. Be hard-working.
Remember Jesus Christ.
v14-26 A Christian should seek to present themselves as a workman before God, approved and unashamed, correctly handling the word of truth.
Ch 3
The evil traits listed here are a characteristic of godlessness. As Christians, we are to be godly. Live a godly life in Christ Jesus.
v14-17
The Bible is able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ. It is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, training in righteousness, so you are fully equipped for every good work.
Paul is certain of his calling and the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus.
He is sure of his legacy in Timothy.
He is sure of his gifting in God.
He is certain of the privilege of suffering for the gospel.
His knows for certain the promises of the gospel of Jesus.
The demands & cost of Christian ministry. Paul's counsel & exhortation:
Fan into flame the gift God has given you.
Don't be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me His prisoner. Join together in suffering for the gospel.
What you have heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus.
Guard the good deposit entrusted to you (with the help of the Holy Spirit).
The Christian home is vital in bringing sincere faith into our children's lives. cf 1:5, 3:14-15
Ch 2
v1-13 Be strong in grace, entrust what you have heard to others, who will be qualified to teach others, endure hardship. Be hard-working.
Remember Jesus Christ.
v14-26 A Christian should seek to present themselves as a workman before God, approved and unashamed, correctly handling the word of truth.
Ch 3
The evil traits listed here are a characteristic of godlessness. As Christians, we are to be godly. Live a godly life in Christ Jesus.
v14-17
The Bible is able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ. It is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, training in righteousness, so you are fully equipped for every good work.
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