Deuteronomy 18:1-20:20 + Luke 9:28-50 + Psalm 73:1-28 + Proverbs 12:10
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Wow, the past 3 months seem to have flown by… It’s now April 1 and we are officially 25%, or one quarter, of the way through the Bible! Congratulations! Give yourself a pat on the back! High-five God! Your marathon pace is going great!
Old Testament – In Deuteronomy 18:15 today Moses prophesies about Jesus! “Moses continued, “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your fellow Israelites. You must listen to him.” These words of Moses’ show that the coming of Jesus was not an afterthought, but part of God’s original plan. In Acts 3:22-23 Peter quoted this verse to show that Jesus was the long awaited Messiah, the prophet referred to here in Deuteronomy.
Bob Deffinbaugh with Bible.org has a great commentary on Deuteronomy chapter 18 titled “False Prophets” at this link. One good quote from this link from Bob is – “False prophets play down the majesty and holiness of God. They try, as it were, to ‘bring God down’ to our level. They make us feel comfortable around “God” (or the “gods”), and they even seek to convince us that we can manipulate God to our advantage. The true prophets did just the opposite.'” Think there are false prophets in our world today?
In Deuteronomy chapter 19 we read about the Cities of Refuge today. An image is below for verse 11 – which did not allow one safety in the Cities of Refuge…. “”But suppose someone hates a neighbor and deliberately ambushes and murders that neighbor…”
An image is below for Deuteronomy chapter 20 verses 1 through 4 – ““When you go out to fight your enemies and you face horses and chariots and an army greater than your own, do not be afraid. The LORD your God, who brought you safely out of Egypt, is with you! Before you go into battle, the priest will come forward to speak with the troops. He will say, `Listen to me, all you men of Israel! Do not be afraid as you go out to fight today! Do not lose heart or panic. For the LORD your God is going with you! He will fight for you against your enemies, and he will give you victory!'” This reminds me of a great lyric from Chris Tomlin’s Arriving CD – “If God is on our side, who can be against us?”
New Testament – Today in Luke chapter 9 we read about the Transfiguration! I read an interesting commentary that said Peter was suggesting that 3 shelters be made because Peter thought at that time that the faith was built on these 3 pillars: The Law (Moses), the Prophets (Elijah), and Jesus. Whereas, Peter later understood that through the New Covenant our faith is now built on Jesus, “a chosen and precious cornerstone” (1 Peter 2:6).
In Luke chapter 9 verse 46 today we read – “Then there was an argument among them as to which of them would be the greatest.” Hmmm…. think this sort of thing still goes on today? 🙂 Sure it does, because I’ve participated in this sort of thing. No, I guess I’ve never straight out argued with someone that I’m greater than them in the kingdom of God… but I’ve thought it. How sad. How very sad. Why sad? Because if we consciously thinking about ourselves as being better than someone else, then we are spending precious time focused on the wrong thing in life – ourselves. God calls us to love & serve others in so many more valuable ways. When we are focusing on ourselves, and thinking we are all-that-and-a-bag-o-chips we are not loving anybody… Praise God that Jesus teaches the disciples – and you and me today – that there is a better way. Verses 47 & 48 continue – “But Jesus knew their thoughts, so he brought a little child to his side. Then he said to them, “Anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes my Father who sent me. Whoever is the least among you is the greatest.””
Bible.org’s commentary on Luke chapter 9 titled “The Transfiguration of Christ” is at this link and commentary titled “Secular Saints” is at this link.
Psalms – Wow… Psalm 73 today is amazing! I love it. I actually had lunch with a good friend who said to me verse 13 almost verbatim – “Was it for nothing that I kept my heart pure and kept myself from doing wrong?” It was so sad for me to hear him say this… but he obviously is not alone. The Psalmist thought this too, and I imagine each of us might feel like this is at times. Praise God that the Psalmist rallies, as hopefully do we, in verse 23 – “Yet I still belong to you; you are holding my right hand.” And then I absolutely love where he goes with verse 26 – “My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever.” I can quickly think of people in our world today where this verse 26 is so applicable… let us pray that those in time of failing health and spirit have God remain the strength of their heart!
Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Psalm 73 titled “Is Your Spiritual Vision 20/20?” is at this link.
Proverbs – Proverbs chapter 12 verse 10 I kind of forgot was in the Bible – “The godly are concerned for the welfare of their animals…” Great Proverb for all you animal lovers out there! 🙂 I’m an animal lover too… but as I know my weakness for even caring for plants, I have wisely not moved into caring for the animal kingdom in any way, shape, or form… I probably should not put this out there publicly. God may now put me to the test in this arena! 🙂
Worship Video: Today’s readings reminded me Matthew West’s terrific song “Maker:”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UwRCbKXqFqY
Have you given your life over to your maker? Click here and meet your Maker!
Please join us in memorizing and meditating on three verses of Scripture today: “An argument started among the disciples as to which of them would be the greatest. Jesus, knowing their thoughts, took a little child and had him stand beside him. Then he said to them, “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For whoever is least among you all is the greatest.” Luke 9:46-48 TNIV
Prayer Point: Pray that you will never seek to be the “greatest.” Pray instead to be the least among all, as Jesus was the least among all. Pray you will follow Jesus in his humility.
Comments from You & Questions of the Day: How have the first 3 months of readings been for you? Have you learned something new about God? About Jesus? About the Old Testament? Are you looking forward to the next 3 months of readings? Do you think this daily reading of the Bible is a good spiritual discipline? Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings? Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!
God bless,
Mike
p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Bible readings at this link.
p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.
p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!
BLOG READERS HISTORICAL COMMUNITY COMMENTS:
(our Group Bible Study is below! : )
======= Ramona:
Deuteronomy 18:1-20:20
God, I want to hear from you, but I really don’t want to hear from you. Send me someone, anyone who is willing to listen to you and have them tell me what you said, and so Israel said.
The LORD your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you from your fellow Israelites; you must listen to him. This accords with what happened at Horeb in the day of the assembly. You asked the LORD your God: “Please do not make us hear the voice of the LORD our God any more or see this great fire any more lest we die.” The LORD then said to me, “What they have said is good. I will raise up a prophet like you for them from among their fellow Israelites. I will put my words in his mouth and he will speak to them whatever I command. I will personally hold responsible anyone who then pays no attention to the words that prophet speaks in my name. “But if any prophet presumes to speak anything in my name that I have not authorized him to speak, or speaks in the name of other gods, that prophet must die. Now if you say to yourselves, ‘How can we tell that a message is not from the LORD?’ whenever a prophet speaks in my name and the prediction is not fulfilled, then I have not spoken it; the prophet has presumed to speak it, so you need not fear him.” (Deuteronomy 18:15-22 NET.)
I’m sure if you hear God speak, you will know that God is speaking to you. Yet, if someone comes in and says that they have a word from God, look out. Now, not only must you listen carefully to their words and weigh it against what you remember, you think, are the ways of God, you must also judge if the prophet is true or false. If you get it wrong you are in trouble, and if you get it right you better pray that you have a good memory. If you right it down can you remember where in your multitude of journals you wrote down the word? (Before I began saving my writing to hard drive, I accumulated 18 journals.
Do I put plugs in my ears to block out God’s voice speaking to me, while claiming that if God only sent a righteous person to speak to me, I’ll listen? By the time you finish testing the messenger, will you remember the message?
Grace and peace,
Ramona
======= Maria:
I have been reading your blog regularly for some time though I have never posted. I have been reading the One Year Bible since January and I find your blog to be an amazing great tool in learning more about the daily readings. I appreciate all the illustrations since I seem to be the visual type of person. I’ve learned a lot from your blog! It truly encourages people to read the Bible more and more. This has been indeed a wonderful journey.
So today I wanted to say thanks for all the work you do in keeping this blog so well updated on a daily basis!
It’s interesting to see how the more you read the Bible, the more you “get” it. When reading the Bible (even if we don’t quite get it at first) we are depositing little seads directly from God’s word into our brain. Later, the Holy Spirit can access these seeds when we need them in our life. If we don’t deposit anything in our “brain account”, we won’t have anything in there to access from.
That’s why I think reading the Bible is so important. It is a way to directly communicate with him without the use of the “middle man” like you said. And it helps us recognize true gifted teachers who teach God’s word based on Bible teachings and weed out those who are “false prophets”. It is through God’s word that we can connect with him.
Maria
======= Sean:
awesome site! I really enjoy reading myself, but I tend to take it more slowly. I am really encouraged that there are groups out there who do this together!
Sean
======= Kristie:
I enjoyed today’s readings, although as I started reading Deuteronomy I was also eating my breakfast (egg burrito). When they were talking about cheeks and lobes, I started the reading in Luke!
Anyhow, several things jumped out at me. One is the transfiguration (I read it in the ESV) when the Jesus was left standing alone, and Peter starts saying, “Hey, let’s build a shrine..” Then they are enveloped in a cloud and God has “this is my son, listen to Him!” It just cracks me up. Poor Peter thinks he has this great strategy, and then God corrects him–personally. And the lesson is, Listen to Jesus! And how do we do that? But reading and understanding the Word! How exciting that we are doing that together here reading the whole Bible to gain a better understanding and overview.
I also enjoyed the Psalm today…
verse 23: Nevertheless, I am continually with you;
you hold my right hand.
He is with us…why? Because he holds our right hand. I see it as a picture of a father with a child, holding our hand.
Anyhow, I am sure you got similar observations on that Psalm. It’s beautiful.
Kristie
======= Laura:
Re: The Transfiguration that, we spoke of in todays reading. Bible.org was very interesting today. The comment that Bob made “The spectacular never really convinces or converts anyone”, is the reason that those who witnessed the Transfiguration of Jesus who were Peter, James and John give no gospel account of the Transfiguration. The Lord does not play up this miracle or the mount of Transfiguration.
According to Bob Deffenbuagh: Bob says ( I’ve copied and pasted this ) Observations
Before we seek to explore the implications and applications of the transfiguration, let us pause for a moment to make an observation about the three who witnessed this event. There were three witnesses to the transfiguration: Peter, John, and James.181 There are also three accounts of the transfiguration in the gospels: Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Is it not noteworthy that while there are three witnesses to the transfiguration, not one of them is a gospel writer? Matthew, who wrote one of the accounts, was one of the nine left behind. John, on the other hand, who accompanied Jesus up to the mount of transfiguration, and who wrote a gospel account, does not include the transfiguration in his gospel. I find this most interesting. If such a spectacular event were to happen today, we would be certain to have the “press corps” invited. Jesus did not do so, and He knew what was going to happen (cf. Luke 9:27).
I am not sure that I can explain why this is true, why Jesus would invite three men along, and yet none of them would give a personal account of the event. I think it is safe to say that Jesus did not capitalize upon or emphasize the spectacular. If He handled things as some religious leaders do, He would not only have had the twelve disciples along, but he would have had the radio, television, press, and a huge crowd of witnesses along with him as well. Jesus downplayed the spectacular, while we play it up. Perhaps we need to learn a lesson from our Lord, here
Bob makes 5 points that I found interesting:
1. The Transfiguration confirms the identity of Jesus.
2. His kindom is identified.
3. Clarification is made that Jesus is one who is greater.
4. The crown and cross are one.
5. God can raise men from the dead.
I encourage everyone today to read the commentary at the link Mike provided about the Transfiguration, you might learn something new.
Laura
======= Ann:
The first three months of reading the Bible (as a group) has been so rewarding. Points that I had not even considered have been aired on the ‘Blog Site’ enriching my understanding. Many thanks to you all.
Ann
======= Karen:
I believe that reading the Bible is a spiritual discipline that I need. I have to admit that I started out strong, but have fizzled out in the past month or so. I have picked up days here and there, but not consistently. I feel like Paul who said that they things he should do he didn’t do and the things he shouldn’t do were what he found himself doing. Thank you for the blog, I, too, really need the illustrations to show some of the important points, and look forward to insights in the blog that I haven’t picked up from the reading. Keep up the good work.
Karen
======= Bill:
I’ve very recently given myself to the Lord. Reading the Bible daily for the first time is having a major positive effect on my life.
Praise God
Bill
======= Becky:
I can hardly believe it, but I’ve read the Bible every day for three months! It’s definitely thanks to the structure and the motivation from this site. Although I’ve been a believer for a few years, I regret to say that I’ve not read consistently before, nor have I read much of the OT, except for Genesis, Exodus, and some of the “stories” here and there. Reading Scripture, the Blog, and people’s comments has been great– I’ve learned a lot!
Also, I was really resistant at first to reading Scripture in anything other than the King James Version. But I decided to borrow the One Year Bible (NLT) from a friend to see if it was easier than flipping back and forth in my old trusty KJ. And it was! And I started to really like the NLT! I bought one for myself and 2 for friends.
Becky
======= Brandie:
To me the Old Testament is like reading a story, it is hard to explain. I can’t really get into learning something new in the Old Testament but can. For example how many wives they had and who they laid with – oh my goodness..and now it is still the same..with out the many wives..:)
The daily reading of the Bible is a good spiritual discipline because it makes me feel good about myself. Makes the day go smoother
Brandie
======= Hal:
But God remains the strength of my heart…Man, thats tight! No matter who the person is, the situation or circumstance rising up against me, I can say “but God.” Because as long as He’s with me, I know that He’s takin care of me because He stays He on control. God bless u for ur amazing ministry. Your reward will be great in the Kingdom
Hal
======= Jenny:
I see in Deut today the Bible discusses evil such as physics, fortune-tellers, contacting the dead etc. Some Christians seem unsure about this. When i was in the world i went to a psychic (she was wrong!) n considered contacting the dead, my best friend had died and i was desperate, though i knew it was wrong and my Christian upbringing kept me from it. I later learned if someone does contact the dead via juiji board, seance, (n its not fake) you are not contacting your loved one but rather a demon impersonating ur loved one. scary! I’ll stay away from that. Astrology, horoscopes, witchcraft (Paganism, Wicca) is all extremely evil and we as God’s children should not go near that. You never want to open a door to invite that in your life. v 14: “the Lord your God forbids you to do such things.”
Man, there are false prophets right and left. Many prominent ppl today. As Christians we need discernment….is their practices of the Bible? Do they have a scriptual basis for what they say? Do they seek to add or take away from the Woord of God? I was listening to Pastors’ Perspective, a call-in Christian radio show, about the Emerging Church…stay away from that, it brings confusion to ppl, including many weaker Christians…it also seems to be the gateway for the emergence of the one-world-church spoken of in the end times. At church tonight the Pastor was discussing that the US may go to war with Iran in the summer and this could be the battle spoken of (i believe its in the book of revelation) the war that comes against Israel and this is pretty much signifying that the return of Jesus is right around the corner…but we know 7 yrs b4 His return, the church will be raptured. God’s wrath is about to be poured out…definitely on the US, we know Hollywood is the home to all the pornographic smut, etc…and we are spreading it world-wide. But God will not pour out His wrath until His bride (the church…the TRUE church is taken up!)
In Luke we read about Elijah and Moses with Jesus…perhaps comforting Him, strengthening Him concerning His upcoming crucifixion. These two men may very well be the two witnesses that will appear during the Great Trib..we know one is Elijah. Years ago ppl wondered, how on earth can the whole world see these two witnesses be killed and rise again on day 3. well with the internet and cable, we see its definitely possible.
Who will be the greatest in the kingdom….if we are honest with ourselves, we will know we are sinners and its ONLY by God’s grace, Jesus’ righteousness imparted to us that allows access to God and eternal life. Nothing we do or say…i honestly have never thought of myself being great in the Kingdom of God..the thought makes me laugh!
Wow!! I LOVE Ps 73!!:
Truly God is good to Israel,
to those whose hearts are pure.
2 But as for me, I almost lost my footing.
My feet were slipping, and I was almost gone.
3 For I envied the proud
when I saw them prosper despite their wickedness.
4 They seem to live such painless lives;
their bodies are so healthy and strong.
5 They don’t have troubles like other people;
they’re not plagued with problems like everyone else.
6 They wear pride like a jeweled necklace
and clothe themselves with cruelty.
7 These fat cats have everything
their hearts could ever wish for!
8 They scoff and speak only evil;
in their pride they seek to crush others.
9 They boast against the very heavens,
and their words strut throughout the earth.
12 Look at these wicked people—
enjoying a life of ease while their riches multiply.
13 Did I keep my heart pure for nothing?
Did I keep myself innocent for no reason?
14 I get nothing but trouble all day long;
every morning brings me pain.
I am soooo feeling that!!! “I get nothing but trouble all day long; every morning brings me pain.”
16 So I tried to understand why the wicked prosper.
But what a difficult task it is!
17 Then I went into your sanctuary, O God,
and I finally understood the destiny of the wicked.
verrrry powerful! I heard a sermon on this once and it opened my eyes so much!
21 Then I realized that my heart was bitter,
and I was all torn up inside.
22 I was so foolish and ignorant—
I must have seemed like a senseless animal to you.
23 Yet I still belong to you;
you hold my right hand.
24 You guide me with your counsel,
leading me to a glorious destiny.
25 Whom have I in heaven but you?
I desire you more than anything on earth.
amen, i am feeling this!!!
28 But as for me, how good it is to be near God! (another Amen!)
Concerning proverbs…i do see many ungodly who love their animals…But I am definitely an animal lover!!!! I have loved all my pets; cats, dog, rats, etc, sooo much. I truly believe pets and animals are a gift from God to us! I lok forward to getting a couple rats soon, my living situation doesnt permit cats or dogs. Also have been a vegetarian for nearly 17 yrs. God just gave me a sensitive heart for them. Of course i know eating animal carcus isnt a sin, but i personally cant do it. But during the millennial reign, all animals will be vegetarian, the lion will lie down with the lamb…I’m assuming we will be vegetarian. that makes me happy! So this is to say murdering animals didnt begin until sin entered the world….part of the curse.
Ok, those are my daily tangents. :p
Jenny
======= Stuart:
This is a truly wonderful site with well proportioned daily readings. No matter how many times we read the Word, there is always something new to learn. The daily discipline of reading OYB before embarking on each day’s activities is indeed beneficial:)As for looking forward to the next 3 months readings, I will go further and state that I look forward to reading OYB for as long as it is written!
Blessings to Mike and all his readers.
Stuart in Spain
======= Laurel:
I am new to the word of God, I am being Baptized in a few weeks. I do not understand Deuteronomy 19:21 Show no pity: life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.
Are we not suposed to firgive all who sin against us so we to will be forgiven?
Laurel
======= Nancy:
In response to Laurel, after Christ came things changed. Yes, we do need to forgive always, but in Old Testament times that was not the case. Many things are new because of Christ coming and giving us a new covenant. May the Lord Bless You.
Nancy
======== Richard:
I think your blog on the one year Bible is outstanding. I enjoy the confident, yet humble way you share God’s Word along with your insights. It is a challenge to keep up with the readings, but a very good discipline that I enjoy more with the relevant discussion you provide.
Richard
======= Lisa:
I became a grandmother in March, blessed by a baby girl born to our oldest son and daughter-in-law. Going to war in the OT part of our reading made me think of Jesus asking the disciples to follow Him. They could not have their hearts on earthly homes and serve the Lord. He is priority. I thought about our own daily struggle with this. If you decide, you can fight the war, otherwise we are lukewarm. The captain of the army told them to go back home if it was more important to them. I don’t like what Jesus says about Lukewarm in Revelation, when I am in a season of undecided, wishy-washy, the rut of the tyranny of the urgent, etc. My peace is found at the feet of Jesus.
Lisa
======= Elizabeth:
Hello All,
The past three months of reading have been good. It’s been awhile since I’ve read the first part of the OT consecutively and intentionally. Reading at such a fast pace is helpful in getting a broader view of God’s big plan.
The law has been more cumbersome for me than in prior readings, but the Israelites’ broader journey through the wilderness has been rich in life lessons.
I’m looking forward to moving into Joshua and Judges,
Elizabeth
======= Denise:
Hello,
I have really enjoyed being in God’s word the last four months and look forward to the next 8 months. I have to say that the OT is very convicting and heavy. I have to keep reminding myself of God’s grace vs. the law.
I have also found that if I read Proverbs first, Psalms second, the NT third and the OT last it helps me to be able to focus more on the Psalms and Proverbs. There is so much going on in the NT & OT stories that my mind often lingers there.
What a wonderful journey! Thank you for this blog, it is a great resource and blessing! I also enjoy the emails you send out with the questions for reflection.
Denise
======== Elizabeth:
Denise: Interesting insight about reading the psalms and proverbs first….I’ll have to try that!
Elizabeth
======= Luch:
Psalm 73:28 is fitting as we go through this Holy/Passion Week. Jesus died for us and rose from the dead so this verse could be a reality in our/my life/lives.
“But as for me, how good it is to be near God! I have made the Sovereign LORD my shelter, and I will tell everyone about the wonderful things you do.”
Luch
======= Wendy:
These last three months have been so very rewarding to me. This is as far as I have even gotten with respect to reading the Bible. I have learned so much! I see so many similarities from the Old, New Testaments and today. I am really looking forward to more…..it has made me stronger in my faith….my daily walk with the Lord.
I would like to take time to thank you, Mike for the opportunity for us to participate together. Your program keeps me focused.
Have a wonderful Easter everyone. God Bless us all.
Wendy
======= Alli:
Hi Mike
I would also like to personally thank you for putting together these daily readings…like Wendy, this is as far as I have ever gotten with respect to reading the Bible…and I am also looking forward to learning much more…I try my best not to miss a day and I have been successful :)…I am understanding more and more each day and pray that God would grant all who read wisdom and open up our understanding daily…
Thank you so much once again…
God Bless!
Alli
======= Dee:
In Deuteronomy Chapter 19, verse 13, second half stood out to me, (13) Purge from Israel the guilt of murdering innocent people, then all will go well with you. For some reason, the shedding of innocent blood come into my mind(abortion) and I got to thinking, if they still purged the guilty parties, the abortion activitist and held accountable or just banished all abortion clinics, how different our nation and society could/would be? Now, if any are reading are sensitive to this read or have been guilty of this in past, Jesus blood covers a multitude of sins and repentance is there and you will see those precious babies again in Heaven I believe, its just all these congressman who are so Liberal and don’t see these infants at conception as being real or not having a voice for those who cry out in the womb, it is a sore spot deep within me and I believe the Holy Spirit puts that sensitivity in our soul/spirit because it is against all that Christ came to give us and that is Life and Life more abundantly! and to the fullest!
now, that I am off my soap box,
Luke, 9:28-50
So, Jesus took up Peter James and John up the mountain while He went to pray. What I noticed throughout the Gospels is everytime, Christ is trying to show or teach the disciples, His special “set apart disciples” something extraordinary, they go to sleep..they went to sleep now and when Jesus goes to the Garden on night of His arrest, charges, and leading up to ressurection, they sleep..What is wrong with this picture??I look at this in our lives, when Christ is within us and trying to teach and discipline us in our lives, we get into lazy mode, and want to sleep, eat, get off on things that “aren’t” the will of God..is that speaking to anyone else because I am preaching to myself here too..These guys had the Saviour with them all days, all the time, and maybe they felt the peace that surpasses all understanding, and maybe they thought Hey, we are with the King of Kings, Lord of Lords, the greatest Protection we will ever know, and that just put them in a tranquil, ease, position that they thought as long as the Father is with them, they were off their shift of work, so to speak..whatever it was, we can all learn that Christ has amazing things for us to do here and on this side of Heaven to bring about the amazing Transformation that will Rock this World off its foundation..
~~Be Blessed
Dee
======= Ted:
I’m 53 and using the one year Bible study for the first time. It’s having a HUGE impact on my spiritual walk. I’m ashamed it took me so long to get into daily scripture reading. I always used to look at it as a chore. I look forward to it now. It’s changing my life in really positive ways.
Blessings,
Ted
======== Billy:
Mike, the first 3 months have been fantastic. The Blog and the Daily readings are a Godsend. I look forward every day to my morning reading. Thanks again for your insight and words of wisdom.
Thanks Laura, yeah I have read some of the Bob Deffenbaugh comments before and he is well worth giving a look when Mike posts his commentaries. He is very smart and insightful. Thanks for the summary.
Billy
======= Duane:
I look forwarded to my daily reading everyday. I enjoy reading and listening to the audio version as well. Through commentary links I am learning more everyday. The bible blog is the best way I’ve found to complete the one year bible journey.I actually stumble on it by accident, what a blessing.
Duane
======= Colleen:
Mike, thank you so much for your faithful service to the Lord through this web site! This is my second go-round with One Year Bible Blog and it has been a true blessing! I look forward every day to joining all of you as we make our way through God’s holy scriptures. The blog, commentary links, and readers’ comments add so much richness to the experience; God is revealing so many new things that I did not see or think about on my last time reading through the Bible. May our Heavenly Father bless each of you!
Colleen
======= Jill:
I find it interesting in Luke 9:50 where Jesus called them a perverse generation. Shows Jesus frustration. I read a commentary on it saying they were focused on only their physical bodies and that they wanted Jesus to heal their demon possessed son. But not concerned with Jesus teachings. He came to reach them about eternal life and was concerned with more of that.just something to think about, We get caught up in earthly things and the state of our physical bodies. We are self centered. We should be Concerned only about where we are going.
Jill
======= Sandra:
YES YES THIS ONE YEAR DAILY BIBLE READING IS ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL.. I HAVE HAD A LITTLE HARD TIME W ALL THE SACRIFICES. BUT I OUR GOD IS THE ALMIGHTY AND WHATEVER HE SAYS OR DOES IS HIS BUSINESS.TY SO MUCH .I HAVE SENT TO OTHERS ENCOURAGING THEM TO READ.GOD BLESS ALL WHO HAVE A PART IN THIS.I JUST PRAY FOR MORE WISDOM TO UNDERSTAND HIS WILL…AGAIN THANK YOU ,GOD BLESS….
Sandra
======= Tabitha:
This is year 3 for me. I don’t comment often but I do enjoy reading and going thru this study knowing that there are others who are working out their own salvation with fear and trembling right along with me. I feel like something is off during the day if I haven’t read and studied with you. Prayers and blessings to you all.
Tabitha
======= Judie:
I liked your opening comment about our marathon pace in going through the Bible. We
certainly need to keep up on our reading. I have found that if I miss one or two days of reading for whatever reason, I need to catch up right away. If I don’t, then it gets harder and harder to make myself do it because it seems that there is just so much, and, also, I know that something is missing from my life that I really need for my spiritual health.
Today is Easter. Christ is alive. He lived an died for us. I am always amazed at this. There is such a joyous song of Easter that I listen to every year. Please take the time to go to youtube music and listen to Easter Song by Glad. It will make your heart sing.
Judie
======= Robert:
Luke 9:28-36
The Transfiguration
For the gospels, Mathew didn’t go and John who didn’t write anything about the Transfiguration. That is a very interesting observation. Thanks Laura. There are dozens of reasons of course (maybe training purposes), but obviously it wasn’t in God’s plan. Peter does say something in 2 Peter 1:16-18. There might be a clue in the end where scripture says, “The disciples kept this to themselves, and told no one at that time what they had seen”. Jesus must always be our own personal discovery. (Luke 9:20).
I am not sure how I would handle this event or write about it but I certainly would see Jesus in a new way. Seeing the Kingdom this way presents the same problem today. How do you tell someone about it? Little kids understand it better than we do! LOL.
Psalm 73
I think the Steve Sanchez commentary “Is your spiritual vision 20/20?” has a good point. It is a matter of helping people appreciate in the midst of our 5 senses the wonder of who God is, what he has made and what sort of future he has in store for us. In many ways this is in line with how to see the Kingdom. Steve says, “We can come alongside someone and say, “Here, let me help you; you’re looking in the wrong place. Look over here.” We stand shoulder to shoulder and say, “Can you see Him? Look again; He’s right in front of you.” This is the heart of discipleship – helping your brothers and sisters, and fellow human beings “see.”
Robert
======= John:
Detestable Practices
Deut 18:9-13
“When you enter the land the LORD your God is giving you, do not learn to imitate the detestable ways of the nations there. Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the LORD, and because of these detestable practices the LORD your God will drive out those nations before you. You must be blameless before the LORD your God.” NIV
The Hebrew word for “detestable practices is “tow`ebah” and is translated elsewhere as “abominations” meaning – disgusting.
I think the NIV is a bit nice on this point. Something detestable is bad, but has the connotation of “being able to put up with”. Disgusting on the other hand “turns your stomach”, makes you pale to look at, or is just plain horrible.
God is very patient and tolerant until a person or people reach a certain level of sin. When that level is reached – judgment is pronounced on them. Such were the seven tribes inhabiting Canaan.
Besides the rejection of God, the diseases that were probably rampant in these nation states, it may be that it was pure evil that these people lived under as a Code of life.
In this sense it may be understandable why God said all must be destroyed. That way the Israelites would not be physically or spiritually polluted.
Like Mike said, another good commentary from Bob. Everyone should read this commentary. You may not agree with the commentary, but you should read it – especially if you do not agree .
False Prophets, Part II
(Deuteronomy 18:1-22)
By: Bob Deffinbaugh , Th.M.
http://www.bible.org/page.asp?page_id=2398
(same link as in Mike’s text)
John
======= John:
Luke 9
Vs. 27
“I tell you the truth, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God.” NIV
“kingdom” has a different connotation today then it had back in Jesus’ time. Today we associate a kingdom with territorial boundries. Back then a kingdom was associated with the “ruler” – with the ruler’s power and authority.
With that in mind – I have always associated the preceding verses to the transfiguration about “not tasting death” to be about the transfiguration. It was at that mount that the three disciples saw the power, authority, and glory of Christ.
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Transfiguration
“29As he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became as bright as a flash of lightning.”
“32Peter and his companions were very sleepy, but when they became fully awake, they saw his glory and the two men standing with him.”
Jesus met with Moses and Elijah – this was apporpriate as Jesus fulfilled the Law and the Prophets.
The disciples saw the full glory of Christ – reflecting His power and authority.
If that was not enough – God, the Father, Himself spoke and anointed Christ with the authority of the One to listen to regarding God’s message.
People write that none of the disciples at the mount ever wrote about this event. I am not so sure:
John 1:14
“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only,who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” NIV
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One last note on Peter – I would not be so hard on him for his comment on building tabernacles/shelters/tents for the three. It is quite likely that this event occured during the feast of the Tabernacles, where the populace built shelters and lived in them for eight days to commerate the time in the Wilderness. In his effort to say something – perhaps Peter felt safe falling back on the Feast Days of Our Lord.
John
======= John:
Luke
When will they listen?????
Luke 9:41 “O unbelieving and perverse generation,” Jesus replied, “how long shall I stay with you and put up with you? Bring your son here.” NIV
Moses uses the same words regarding the “genearation” in Deut 32:5. There is nothing new under the sun. Israel had not followed God’s Words in the past, and they (the nation) were not listening to Christ’s message now.
Christ (I would think rhetorically) asks how long he shall be there and put up with the people. “put up with” is Gk. anechomai – and is literally “bear or endure”. Remember God hates sin, so it must have been a horrible burden for our Lord to be on earth surrounded by sin and corruption. What makes it worse – the people (the nation) were not listening to His message of Salvation.
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So what about the boy? Is every epileptic demon-possessed? No. However in this case, the boy was demon possessed, and I think on a spiritual level the boy represents the nation (Israel). A nation who had been attracted to false idols, who had not listened and obeyed God’s Word, whose very structure was twisted,crooked and perverse as the boy’s features.
So the people want another miracle. Jesus heals the boy by throwing the demon out of his body, and the people are amazed. The do not believe in Him, but they are amazed. Another in the countless examples – that signs and wonders do not convert when the heart is not right.
[NOTE: If the nation heeded the Word of God – they would have embraced Jesus. If the person is a believer, on a physical level, they never would have a deomonic possession. there is not in the Bible and since in History where a true believer was thought to be demonically possessed. Influenced, maybe; possessed, no.]
Jesus immediately goes to work – that is great but hear now what is important…listen to the message.
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Who will be greatest?
Even in his disciples who have been with him two+ years – listening is not high on the list. Despite all the messages on humility – here they argued about who would be greatest in the kingdom of God?
Jesus showed them here: look – be humble as a child – receive all who come in my name no matter their rank or life works – LISTEN – all are in the Body of Christ – the least shall be the greatest. It is not important the rank, but to be in the Body. That means you have listened.
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What about those not in the inner circle?
It does not matter if those doing my work are not amongst you. If they are in the Body of Christ – they are not against you – but for you.
Listen to the message of Christ. If you have believed in Him and Recieved Christ into your life – you are part of the Body of Christ.
Do you find yourself pinning your belief on signs and wonders, do you want recognition for your Christianity, do you get ticked at the activities of the church down the street who proclaims the Word of God?????
How exasperating it must be to Christ when His Body acts in these ways – listen to the message, and pray to be more Christlike.
John
