Isaiah 41:17-43:13 + Ephesians 2:1-22 + Psalm 67:1-7 + Proverbs 23:29-35
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Old Testament – Today in Isaiah chapter 42 we read some amazing prophecies about Jesus! Verses 1 through 4 in Isaiah 42 are known as the “Servant Song,” in which the servant is the coming Messiah, Jesus. There are 3 other servant songs in Isaiah we’ll read in the coming days. The nation of Israel, as well as the Messiah, are both often called “servant”. The nation of Israel was to be a kingdom of priests and the Messiah is the high priest who atones for the sins of the world. In Isaiah chapter 42 verse 1 today we read: “Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him and he will bring justice to the nations.” Verses 1 through 4 are quoted in part in Matthew 12:18-21. Do you see the prophecies about Jesus as you read today’s chapter 42? Is this chapter and its prophecies encouraging to you?
Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Isaiah titled “The Lord is the Gracious Redeemer” is at this link. Below is a great image for Isaiah 43:2-3 from today’s readings:
New Testament – Today in Ephesians chapter 2 verses 8 through 10 we read: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (NIV) Have you been saved by grace through faith? Do you believe that salvation is a gift that cannot be earned? Have you ever felt that you had to work for your salvation? What does Paul say about works related to salvation in these verses? Do you believe that you are God’s very workmanship created in Christ Jesus to do good works? Do you believe that God has prepared good works for you to do in advance? Are you participating in God’s plan for your life?
Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Ephesians titled “The Guilt of Men and the Grace of God” is at this link. Below is a great image from Ephesians 2:10 from today’s readings:
Psalms – Psalm 67 verse 2 today sounds very Great Commission-ish: “May your ways be known throughout the earth, your saving power among people everywhere.” It’s interesting to read this verse when just recently I was reading a review in my local newspaper about a book that “exposes” evangelical Christians. This book really dives into how “successful” evangelical Christians are in “recruiting” young adults ages 20 to 35 with their ministries. And this book reviewer – and the book author – were very disdainful of Christianity. Saying it threatened secular society… and this just made me realize that the more we do indeed make God’s ways known throughout the earth – the more we introduce people to God’s saving power among people everywhere – well, then the secular world will push back big time with books and reviews like the one I read. And the secular world will even push back in more severe ways as well. This makes me realize that indeed our efforts to make God’s was known – God’s love, grace, mercy, salvation, call to repentance – are being noticed by others! But hopefully more than just being noticed by others, let us pray that our Kingdom work actually introduces others to God’s only son Jesus, who transforms hearts and lives for eternity!
Proverbs – Proverbs chapter 23 verses 29 through 35 is one of the largest portions of Proverbs that we will read on one day this year in the One Year Bible. I’m sure you’ve noticed that usually our Proverbs readings each day are one or two verses. Well, these 7 verses today are well worth presenting together all at once! I pray these verses speak to each of us powerfully about the dangers of overdoing alcohol and being out late partying: “Who has anguish? Who has sorrow? Who is always fighting? Who is always complaining? Who has unnecessary bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? It is the one who spends long hours in the taverns, trying out new drinks. Don’t let the sparkle and smooth taste of wine deceive you. For in the end it bites like a poisonous serpent; it stings like a viper. You will see hallucinations, and you will say crazy things. You will stagger like a sailor tossed at sea, clinging to a swaying mast. And you will say, “They hit me, but I didn’t feel it. I didn’t even know it when they beat me up. When will I wake up so I can have another drink?” This is so very true! I have to share with you here that I have really been convicted lately of how dangerous alcohol can be for so many people in our society. Recently I’ve had a couple of good friends share with me their struggles with alcohol – and they are heartbreaking stories. Alcohol abuse can literally destroy lives and relationships, as we all know. I’m not a prohibitionist. But, I do see so much truth in this Proverb and I think we all need to recognize the danger of alcohol abuse – not to mention the dangers of drugs. Please please please, don’t ever let the sparkle and smooth taste of wine deceive you! For in excess it can indeed bite like a poisonous serpent…
Worship Video: Today’s readings in Isaiah chapter 43 reminded me of Josh Wilson’s song, “Carry Me:”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9huooelamNA
Is God carrying you? Click here and be carried!
Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10 NIV
Prayer Point: Pray that you realize that you are truly God’s workmanship. Pray that you are doing good works that God prepared in advance for you to do. Pray that you realize that works don’t save you, but that you know the truth of grace from Ephesians 2:8-9, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Comments from You: What verses or insights stand out to you from today’s readings? Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!
Grace, love, peace, and joy!
Mike
p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Bible readings at this link.
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BLOG READERS HISTORICAL COMMUNITY COMMENTS:
(our Group Bible Study is below! : )
======= Ramona:
Isaiah 41:17-43:13
The oppressed and the poor look for water, but there is none; their tongues are parched from thirst. I, the Lord, will respond to their prayers; I, the God of Israel, will not abandon them. I will make streams flow down the slopes and produce springs in the middle of the valleys. I will turn the desert into a pool of water and the arid land into springs. (Isaiah 41:17-18 NET.)
Reading these two verses brought these Words of Jesus to my remembrance,
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied. (Matthew 5:6 NET.)
Everything that is written in the Prophets is found in Jesus. I believe it is not until we get to the place where we are like the dear, with his tongue hanging out from thirst panting for water (Psalm 42:1), that God will quench our thirst and satiate our hunger. When we stop filling ourselves up with things that will never satisfy our thirst then God will come in and give us Streams of Living Water.
I have always loved the first four verses of Isaiah 42 from the very first time I read it.
“Here is my servant whom I support, my chosen one in whom I take pleasure. I have placed my spirit on him; he will make just decrees for the nations. He will not cry out or shout; he will not publicize himself in the streets. A crushed reed he will not break a dim wick he will not extinguish; he will faithfully make just decrees. He will not grow dim or be crushed before establishing justice on the earth; the coastlands will wait in anticipation for his decrees.” (Isaiah 42:1-4 NET.)
I’m not sure what specifically in and about these four verse bring me such joy and comfort but I think for me it gives me guidelines in determining or discerning who, is ministering the Gospel. Are they, am I really being led by the Holy Spirit? Or am I being led by my own flesh? When I see or hear people preaching in the street or subway. I ask, “Are they following these guidelines?” Are they witnessing or are they being a witness by their comportment. Can people see in them, can they see in me the indwelling of the Holy Spirit?
God also gives Isaiah a scathing indictment in chapter 42 against God’s people then, and now.
18 “Oh, how deaf and blind you are toward me! Why won’t you listen? Why do you refuse to see? 19 Who in all the world is as blind as my own people, my servant? Who is as deaf as my messengers? Who is as blind as my chosen people, the servant of the LORD? 20 You see and understand what is right but refuse to act on it. You hear, but you don’t really listen.”
Yet, despite all of these charges, we are still God’s people because He loves us unconditionally.
Ephesians 2:1-22
But now in Christ Jesus you who used to be far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, the one who made both groups into one and who destroyed the middle wall of partition, the hostility, when he nullified in his flesh the law of commandments in decrees. He did this to create in himself one new man out of two, thus making peace, and to reconcile them both in one body to God through the cross, by which the hostility has been killed. (Ephesians 2:13-16 NET.)
These are awesome verses. The Law that kept God Chosen People, the Jews, separated from the Gentiles, that’s me, was done away with. He made two different people, the ones who were given the Law and the ones who were not, into one people group. Even if we refuse to accept that Jews are God’s Original Chosen People God still sees us as One. Even if the Jews fail to accept the Gentiles as part of their family, God still sees us as One Family. We are family not because we accept and are endeared to everyone; we are family by way of Blood, the shed Blood of Jesus Christ.
Proverbs 23:29-35
For a while, I have seen alcoholic beverages as bottled “spirits.” In fact there are still stores in Manhattan that use the phrase, “Wines and Spirits” in the title that identifies their business. I live in the Borough of Brooklyn or Kings County, part of New York City, and my borough is also known as the Borough of Churches. A church building should be a place where folks get together who are filled with the Holy Spirit. However, we know that there are churches all around the world where there is no Spirit: they have a counterfeit spirit. Coupled with the “bottled” spirits we find in liquor stores and those places that operate under a counterfeit sprit these verses, at least to me, do not deal exclusively with the imbibing of many alcoholic beverages.
Whatever the choice, fake sprit or one from a bottle, the consequences are the sam, you will find yourself shipwrecked, so beware.
Grace and peace,
Ramona
======== Rosemary:
Oh brother, can I testify to that last statement! I have not drank since August 19, 1987. By God’s saving grace.
HE IS TELLING THE TRUTH.
Rosemary
========= Ramona:
>>Alcohol can literally destroy lives and relationships, as we all know. >>
Mike—Anything done in excess is dangerous and will destroy your life and I’m using “life” as more than the breathing in an out of air.. The life that is destroyed is the abundant life Jesus talks about in John 10:10. In the USA, we are destroying our lives by being intoxicated with food. Driving while full (DWF), to me, can be the same as DUI/DWI. Anything done in excess is “sin.”
Societies and cultures just excepts certain kinds of excess and puts it’s stamp of approval on it. Anything that destroys our relationship with God, anything that causes us to sacrifice our family for the so called “greater good,” or for our own personal feel goods, is sin.
Grace and peace,
Ramona
======= Lori:
Mike,
This is my first time writing- I started the one year bible blog with you on jan.1st!! I have been so blessed by you and your awesome efforts! I’ve told many others about you also, including my 75 yr. old mother who also is enjoying your blog!! Thank you – thank you – keep up the great work!
I would like to share a book that is the absolute best on the subject of christians drinking alcohol: “Sipping Saints” by David Wilkerson. It is a very short book, but very powerful!! A must read for all christians! I use to drink once in awhile until I read this book- now I never do.
May God Bless you for the awesome work you are doing in sharing His Word with us!
Lori
======== Mike:
Thanks Rosemary, Ramona and Lori for the comments on the subject of alcohol today! It’s quite a subject… I really did almost drink myself to death in college. And so perhaps it’s foolish for me to drink at all these days – but I do think I’ve found the “moderation” / not-excess point that you refer to Ramona.
I appreciate the book recommendation Lori. I do hope to read it for further study on this subject of alcohol. And I’m glad you’ve been on board w/ us since Jan 1!
God bless,
Mike
======== Linda:
I am at a very trying time in my life and may soon be homeless. This reading today and the things you have put together regarding it have been a great big kiss from God to me. Thank you.
Linda
======== Emily:
I love the song. It sent chills down my spine. Your site is so rewarding and uplifiting. Thanks for the reminder that God is forever in our hearts!
Emily
======= Erin:
I hadn’t been doing these readings lately — I had switched to a chronological Bible for the last few months, but it was not going well. I haven’t even gotten to any New Testament readings yet, and to have JUST OT readings was getting tedious for me. I decided to come back to this and use my chronological Bible alongside it for historical context. Anyway, this is my first day back, and it had to be God directing me back to this, because I REALLY needed this passage in Isaiah today. My 13-year-old son has been enthralled by the Curiosity series on the Discovery Channel, and I’ve been watching it with him to help him with any questions or anything that comes up that is contradictory to our faith. The last episode we watched was about the end of the world. I generally avoid disaster-type movies because of how much they trouble me. I am an EXTREMELY empathetic person, and it is far to easy for me to actually insert myself and my children into those situations and be haunted by weeks. Watching this episode of Curiosity was like watching a disaster movie, but with scientific evidence to back it all up — it was horrifying. So to come here today for the first time in months, without knowing what passages I would be reading today, and see Isaiah 43 — it was like God whispering to me that it was okay. Whatever happens, God will walk with me through it. And he already knows what the future will bring. He created me and my children “for such a time as this.” We will be okay because God goes with us.
Erin
======== Billy:
We have been studying James in our Bible Study group and this is where he says, “Faith without works is dead.” This seems like a contradiction between what Paul just said in Ephesians but in my Bible note it said the following which I found to be very good:
“That a man is justified by faith alone, but not by a faith that is ALONE.” (it says these are Martin Luthur’s words)
Billy
========= Juliana:
My family and i are usually in an argument over what the associated with alcohol abuse is versus
misuse. Through what I learned during my high school health class misuse IS misuse if
the person drinking is underage like our son’s situation. My wife believes that abuse is reserved for raging alcoholics and that our son is simply experimenting like everyone else his age. I have blended views given my very own “experimentation”, however I want to deal with this better than our parents did. Our son also recently received a public intoxication solution and we needed to pick him up from the police train station… Within the grand scheme associated with things the answer does not help us with the underage son, but it a minimum of puts us on a single page since how best to manage this..
Juliana
======== Art:
Christianity does threaten secular society, Mike. Satan is the Prince of the World, and he will convince those that follow him to fight tooth and nail against Christianity. The writer of the newspaper article that you read is merely expressing what in some worldly quarters is “popular opinion.”
We must remember that when Jesus walked the Earth, neither He nor his followers were popular. Satan even had the religious folk of the time against Him. He became such a threat that He was put to death. He reminded us that we who follow and worship the true God of the Universe would also be put down in the day’s society. So this is what we expect!
Let us not be faint-hearted because of these stabs. Satan can only go as far as God will permit him to go. Let us continue to share the Word with all who will accept it, and also to all others that might be touched by the Holy Spirit. In ancient times, it could have perhaps been Paul writing a story like that…and we know how, through the grace of God, how he turned out!
Keep the faith, brother!
Art
======== Dee:
I love the foreshadowing of Christ in Isaiah today.
I love in Ephesians..we are God’s workmanship..his masterpiece. Lest any man may boast..we boast in Christ instead
Proverbs was interesting and reminded me of my dad and of a coworker of mine..alcohol abuse not only hurts you but your family. It ensures..beware
Dee
======= Renee:
Every time I read Isaiah 42…I can tangibly feel the Love of God for His son and His purpose. And, how, He openly reveals His plans for His people.
8 “I am the Lord; that is my name!
I will not yield my glory to another
or my praise to idols.
9 See, the former things have taken place,
and new things I declare;
before they spring into being
I announce them to you.”
Isaiah 43
11 I, even I, am the Lord,
and apart from me there is no savior.
12 I have revealed and saved and proclaimed—
I, and not some foreign god among you.
You are my witnesses,” declares the Lord, “that I am God.
Praise His Great Love for us forever!
Eph. 2:4-10
4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Bless God for all He’s done
Ps. 67:3
May the peoples praise you, God may all the peoples praise you.
Proverbs 23:29-35
Wine in and of itself is not bad. Jesus’ first miracle was to restore the wine for a wedding at Cana.
Proverbs points to the fact that we should not be using wine as a substitute for God.
Shalom
Renee
======= Angela:
Ephesians 2:1-10 was the passage that stood out to me the most. It says that before we were saved, we were sinful, disobedient, and satisfying our fleshly desires. We deserved horrible punishment. Verse 4-6 then lifts the mood, “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus-” It’s amazing how God can be so gracious and merciful to such sinners like us. He has brought us up from our sinful, undeserving selves to salvation through Jesus Christ. These verses made me realize how much God really deserves praise and glory, yet sometimes we still don’t glorify him.
Angela
======= Jane:
Mike.. Thanks for sharing carry me by josh Wilson. Man that song is incredible! What a talented musician! Yeah I was thinking about being saved by grace not by our works. I think salvation is the free gift! Then when we take Jesus in ( he Carrys us) then he purposes the good works! They follow because we Love him! Not for self recognition let any man should boast! I love this verse. Although it only took me a life time to figure out. I was raised on rules and regulations. Oh yes Jesus loved me BUT if I did this and this “prob not”. So took while to change that mentality!! He loves me for me!! I love David Dunn new song Jesus loves me this I know .
Jane
======= Bob:
Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Our Pastor used this verse for us to reflect on our Mission Trip to Liberia. It fit perfectly.
Proverbs 23:29-35…Well said Ramona!
Bob
========= John:
Isaiah readings (going to skip around)
Is 43:11-13
I, even I, am the LORD,
and apart from me there is no savior.
I have revealed and saved and proclaimed—
I, and not some foreign god among you.
You are my witnesses,” declares the LORD, “that I am God.
Yes, and from ancient days I am he.
No one can deliver out of my hand.
When I act, who can reverse it?”
I know this chapter is about Israel, but they are his chosen people. Just as believers are His chosen people (remember Ephesians post from yesterday).
Look at the parallels for our salvation:
– God alone is our savior. It is not about anything we can do – it is by His grace giving us faith that we are saved by Him through Jesus Christ.
– It has been revealed to us, we are saved by God, and He proclaims it in His Word. We ARE his withesses That He alone is God.
– Assurance – no one can deliver us out of His hand. Not even we can jump ship. When He acts it is done!
This is why it is so important to know that God has and will keep His promises to Israel. If He can break His word towards Israel, then He can break His word and promises to us. God is a faithful God who will complete His works.
======================================================
Is 43:6-7
I will say to the north, ‘Give them up!’
and to the south, ‘Do not hold them back.’
Bring my sons from afar
and my daughters from the ends of the earth-
everyone who is called by my name,
whom I created for my glory,
whom I formed and made.”
Again about Israel – but it is true for a believer also. We were created for His glory. that is what “God is up to” this whole time – it is not about us – it is about Him. It is for His glory – all his attributes magnified to the highest level that God went ahead with Creation – knowing there would be a turning away from God. Like Joseph said – paraphrased – ‘What Satan meant for evil – God means for good.’ When it appears that God suffers a setback – as time passes – it is true (sometimes revealed) that it works out for the good – and God is glorified.
======================================================
Is 42:6-8
“I, the LORD, have called you in righteousness;
I will take hold of your hand.
I will keep you and will make you
to be a covenant for the people
and a light for the Gentiles,
to open eyes that are blind,
to free captives from prison
and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness.
“I am the LORD; that is my name!
I will not give my glory to another
or my praise to idols.
Messianic writings that talk about Jesus in this chapter and what God will do for Israel and us as believers.
He calls us into righteousness, He will keep us and conform us into the image of Christ. He will make us a light that will open the eyes of people and free them from the captivity of sin (the world).
I am the Lord; that is my name is ‘ I am Jehova (the existing one or “I am”); that is my name.
AND VERY IMPORTANT – He does not share His glory with anyone. If you get or agree that this is all about God’s glory, then you should see that:
Salvation is not about grace and works – there is nothing we can do to earn salvation. God does not share His glory with us.
The concept of purgatory is contradicted by God not sharing His glory. We cannot spend some time in some place suffering to earn our way into heaven. It is not about anything we do – but about God.
The idea that any dead human is elevated in heavenly status to deity or near-deity would mean God would be sharing His glory. God does not share His glory, and for His glory to be magnified to fullest – NO ONE else can step in and play godlike roles.
God is big enough to handle the switchboard. The idea that we need an earthly mediator to approach God died at the cross. The idea that a dead human can approach God in heaven on our behalf denigrates Jesus’ role as the only mediator in Heaven for us (believers).
1Tim2:5
For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus,
God does not share His glory – He is BIG enough for the job.
John
======== Vance:
ISAIAH 41
17
“When the poor and needy search for water and there is none, and their tongues are parched from thirst, then I, the LORD, will answer them. I, the God of Israel, will never forsake them.
18
I will open up rivers for them on high plateaus. I will give them fountains of water in the valleys. In the deserts they will find pools of water. Rivers fed by springs will flow across the dry, parched ground.
19
I will plant trees–cedar, acacia, myrtle, olive, cypress, fir, and pine–on barren land.
20
Everyone will see this miracle and understand that it is the LORD, the Holy One of Israel, who did it.
21
“Can your idols make such claims as these? Let them come and show what they can do!” says the LORD, the King of Israel.
MY COMMENT:
12
[Therefore beware] brethren, take care, lest there be in any one of you a wicked, unbelieving heart [which refuses to cleave to, trust in, and rely on Him], leading you to turn away and desert or stand aloof from the living God.
13
But instead warn (admonish, urge, and encourage) one another every day, as long as it is called Today, that none of you may be hardened [into settled rebellion] by the deceitfulness of sin [by the fraudulence, the stratagem, the trickery which the delusive glamor of his sin may play on him].
ISAIAH 42
6
“I, the LORD, have called you to demonstrate my righteousness. I will guard and support you, for I have given you to my people as the personal confirmation of my covenant with them. And you will be a light to guide all nations to me.
8
“I am the LORD; that is my name! I will not give my glory to anyone else. I will not share my praise with carved idols.
** THANK GOD!
Jesus is God’s “personal confirmation of My Covenant”. Isn’t that great!
18
“Oh, how deaf and blind you are toward me! Why won’t you listen? Why do you refuse to see?
19
Who in all the world is as blind as my own people, my servant? Who is as deaf as my messengers? Who is as blind as my chosen people, the servant of the LORD?
20
You see and understand what is right but refuse to act on it. You hear, but you don’t really listen.”
OUCH!
How much are we—am I—like this?
“Faith without obedience and works of love is dead.”
ISAIAH 43
1
But now, O Israel, the LORD who created you says: “Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine.
2
When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown! When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.
THANK GOD! … Jesus is with us even through our unbelief and “weakness of faith”.
May we be like the man in the Gospel of Mark who PRESSED THROUGH UNBELIEF, the man who Jesus was speaking to:
Mark 9
22
And it has often thrown him both into fire and into water, intending to kill him. But if You can do anything, do have pity on us and help us.
23
And Jesus said, [You say to Me], If You can do anything? [Why,] all things can be (are possible) to him who believes!
24
At once the father of the boy gave [an eager, piercing, inarticulate] cry with tears, and he said, Lord, I believe! [Constantly] help my weakness of faith!
25
But when Jesus noticed that a crowd [of people] came running together, He rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, You dumb and deaf spirit, I charge you to come out of him and never go into him again.
THANK GOD! Jesus is very patient with us!
This should SPUR US to obey more!
13
“From eternity to eternity I am God. No one can oppose what I do. No one can reverse my actions.”
THANK GOD!…
EPHESIANS 2
I really like these questions:
“ Do you believe that you are God’s very workmanship? Do you believe you were created in Christ Jesus to do good works? Do you believe that God has prepared good works for you to do in advance? Are you participating in God’s plan for you life? ”
10
For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so that we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.
21
We who believe are carefully joined together, becoming a holy temple for the Lord.
22
Through him you Gentiles are also joined together as part of this dwelling where God lives by his Spirit.
NOTE:
We are God’s masterpiece!
May we NOT rest in the sense of being lazy! “I am God’s masterpiece—so I will REJOICE in this and do nothing!”
WE SHOULD REJOICE! BUT WE SHOULD ALSO BE ABOUT THE WORK OF THE KINGDOM!
“…He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so that we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”
Vance
Martin Luther is a giant of faith. He and his faith are still alive in the Presence of Jesus. Note some of his commentary on Galatians:
GALATIANS 1
VERSE 1.
O foolish Galatians.
Paul reproves the Galatians rather sharply when he calls them “fools, bewitched, and disobedient.”
Grace does not suddenly transform a Christian into a new and perfect creature. Dregs of the old and natural corruption remain. The Spirit of God cannot at once overcome human deficiency. Sanctification takes time.
VERSE 1.
Who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth?
Since the devil has this uncanny ability to make us believe a lie until we would swear a thousand times it were the truth, we must not be proud, but walk in fear and humility, and call upon the Lord Jesus to save us from temptation.
Although I am a doctor of divinity, and have preached Christ and fought His battles for a long time, I know from personal experience how difficult it is to hold fast to the truth. I cannot always shake off Satan. I cannot always apprehend Christ as the Scriptures portray Him. Sometimes the devil distorts Christ to my vision. But thanks be to God, who keeps us in His Word, in faith, and in prayer.
VERSE 2.
This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?
We must learn that forgiveness of sins, Christ, and the Holy Ghost, are freely granted unto us at the preaching of faith, in spite of our sinfulness. We are not to waste time thinking how unworthy we are of the blessings of God. We are to know that it pleased God freely to give us His unspeakable gifts. If He offers His gifts free of charge, why not take them? Why worry about our lack of worthiness? Why not accept gifts with joy and thanksgiving?
GALATIANS 5
VERSE 6.
For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.
The question occurs to us, What difference is there between faith and hope? We find it difficult to see any difference. Faith and hope are so closely linked that they cannot be separated. Still there is a difference between them.
First, hope and faith differ in regard to their sources. Faith originates in the understanding, while hope rises in the will.
Secondly, they differ in regard to their functions. Faith says what is to be done. Faith teaches, describes, directs. Hope exhorts the mind to be strong and courageous.
Thirdly, they differ in regard to their objectives. Faith concentrates on the truth. Hope looks to the goodness of God.
Fourthly, they differ in sequence. Faith is the beginning of life before tribulation. (Hebrews 11.) Hope comes later and is born of tribulation. (Romans 5.)
Fifthly, they differ in regard to their effects. Faith is a judge. It judges errors. Hope is a soldier. It fights against tribulations, the Cross, despondency, despair, and waits for better things to come in the midst of evil.
VERSE 6.
For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but faith which worketh by love.
To think, “If faith justifies without works, let us work nothing,” is to despise the grace of God. Idle faith is not justifying faith. In this terse manner Paul presents the whole life of a Christian. Inwardly it consists in faith towards God, outwardly in love towards our fellow-men.
VERSE 7.
Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?
The words, “Ye did run well,” are encouraging indeed. Often our lives seem to creep rather than to run. But if we abide in the true doctrine and walk in the spirit, we have nothing to worry about. God judges our lives differently. What may seem to us a life slow in Christian development may seem to God a life of rapid progression in grace.
Vance
======= Anka:
“The man who formerly persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” 24And they praised God because of me.
What a great testimony and it must have been a huge encouragement for the persecuted church.I guess God knows we sometimes have doubts,it seems like we get the tougher end of the stick than even those who have no regard at all for God…yet like a father he still draws us near.
After I became a christian,I joined a church that seemed pretty big on spreading the word.As time went on I began to ask certain questions in my heart….we were always invited to sow big time into the work of God…yet no mention was made of the poor…if a member was in financial distress he was encouraged to sow a seed etc….we were really encouraged to sow into the lives of our ministers to get a prophets reward…a pastor in one of the satelite churches even decided to take on the name “pastor wealth”.Well after a while I got a scholarship outside the country(which I really didn’t want)and not long ago I also started really studying God’s word with the OYB.Where I’m going with this is that sometimes,we get caught up in the wrong gospel…but when you really want to know the truth,God will make a way…the way may seem a bit tight(really uncomfortable)but well,that’s why it’s called the straight and narrow I guess.
God bless you all
Anka
======== Luch:
I think God calls us to be faithful to each other in being part of the ‘correction process’. Proverbs 9:8,9 says, Reprove a scoffer and he will hate you, reprove a wise person and they will love you. Give instruction to a wise person,and he will be still wiser. Teach a righteous person, and they increase their learning.” The other thought is Proverbs 27:5-6, Better is open rebuke than ove that is concealed. Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but deceitful are the kisses of an enemy.
I guess the key to approaching someone to ‘check them’ is that you have a heart for them and really love them. I wouldn’t just go around ‘correcting people’ unless I have some kind of relationship with them. I think it’s also wise to learn to ‘ask questions’ in a low key way rather than to make ‘pronouncements’ about one’s behaviour. I hope those couple of thoughts are useful to you John.
regarding today’s reading, I love that Paul says “God was pleased to reveal His Son in me”. Isn’t that what our faith is about–having a continual fresh revelation of the Son of God….In gal 2:20 he will say it again, “i have been crucified with Christ. I no longer live but Christ lives in me.” It seems today we are caught up in popular, evangelical religious activity but there seems to be so little of people living in intimacy with Jesus as Paul was promoting. People are propped up by the religious programs that are ‘offered’ a la carte but who is pursuing Jesus with intensity and passion??
Luch
======= Vance:
Proverbs 23 (NKJV)
12
Apply your heart to instruction, and your ears to words of knowledge.
NOTE:
This, to me, seems to summarize the entire reading of the judgments of the nations and of today’s reading.
How we “apply” the heart is key. Our time and what we do with our time is the most precious and important decision we can ever make.
I like this from Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary:
“Here is a parent correcting his child: accompanied with prayer, and blessed of God, it may prove a means of preventing his destruction. Here is a parent encouraging his child, telling him what would be for his good.”
Hebrews 12 (NKJV)
9
Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits [Heavenly Father] and live?
10
For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but He [our Heavenly Father with perfect wisdom disciplines us] for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness.
Galatians 1 (NKJV)
3
Grace to you and peace from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ,
4
who gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father,
5
to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.
NOTE:
Jesus came that we have eternal life. And eternal life begins NOW. “Greater is He Who is in us than he that is of and in the world” (I John 4)
We are called to live being “deliver[ed] from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father” through the working of the Lord Jesus by the sealing of the Spirit.
Galatians 1 (NKJV)
12
For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through the revelation of Jesus Christ.
NOTE:
When the Lord Jesus is revealed to us, He will come to always CONFIRM THAT GOD’S WORD IS TRUE!
2 Corinthians 1 (NKJV)
19
For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us—by me, Silvanus, and Timothy—was not Yes and No, but in Him was Yes.
20
For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.
We need always to obtain, and then maintain a personal relationship with the Living Lord Jesus through the Holy Spirit, rooted and grounded in the Word of God and prayer.
Vance
======== John:
Isaiah 15-18
Prophecies of Judgment:
MOAB (JORDAN), DAMASCUS (SYRIA), CUSH (ETHIOPIA OR ?)
Looking up history – all seemed to have been taken down and destroyed (to some degree) by Assyria. That will fulfill the prophecy in the near term – although not exactly, which lends itself to the idea of a long term fulfillment.
======================================================
MOAB (JORDAN)
Moab region of Jordan originally settled (supposedly) by Lot’s eldest son (through incestuous relationship with daughter). Ruth was a Moabite. David sent his parents to Moab for safety during struggle with Saul.
Symbolically, commentators refer to this group of people as “people who profess to believe in God”, but in reality “have no relationship with God”.
Whether literal or symbolic, God will judge the people represented. It seems that there are people left in the end.
If literal, God is said to spare Jordan, because that is where the remnant will flee to (Petra, Jordan) during the Tribulation, and those Jordanians (that are left) will become “believers” with the remnant?????
If Moab symbolic of some group – there will be some portion of those people who are “false positive” in their faith that will convert during the end times.
Is16:5 is cited in Acts15:16 as an indication that this is a time when Jesus will return to “rule”. Reaffirming that this is talking about the “end times” – millenium period???? First the Gentiles will be harvested for the “believers”, and when that is done God will turn back to the remnant (Israel), and establish His throne (David’s).
======================================================
DAMASCUS (SYRIA)
Is17:1
“An oracle concerning Damascus:
“See, Damascus will no longer be a city
but will become a heap of ruins.” NIV
This is the verse people and prophecy sites kept citing during the recent conflict in the Middle East. The Syrians acknowledged that their military was on alert, and aircraft was manned 24/7 during that conflict. It does not take much of an imagination to paint a scenario where Damascus, as a city, would be at risk. “Heap of ruins” means there ain’t no rebuilding.
Symbolically, this would be the people that reject and have always rejected the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. For these people in end times there rejection will seal their “complete doom”.
Isaiah here does not say how this will happen, just that it does. Seems the destruction of the state and it’s citizens is complete. The judgment of God on a people who have historically been at war with Israel since the time of Book of Kings, and have continually rejected the God of Israel.
NOTE: Pre-trib rapture works in nice here in that if there are “believers” in Syria – they will not be around for this destruction.
Bottom-line: This is another place where you do not have to understand or interpret Prophecy to come to grips with Jesus’ return. Can you see elements in Isaiah that have come true or seem very likely to come true soon. If you can picture an escalating scenario where Damascus is at risk…..then…
….are you praying for salvation of loved ones and friends? Are you living with a sense of urgency in Christ? Do you share the gospel when presented the opportunity?
======================================================
CUSH (ETHIOPIA OR ?)
Ethiopia, Group of African nations, Nations of the world, the United States????? A lot of speculation here, but in the end there is nothing new in the chapter.
There will be judgment and then gifts (worship) to the ruler of the world (Jesus). The judgement will take out the non-believers, and the people who came to Christ during the Tribulation will be the one’s worshipping along with saints in “glorified bodies” in the millenium??????. (Still thinking this one out 🙂
What did Solomon say, “Nothing new under the sun”? the idea of the world being judged is not new. Even if this is the United States ( a stretch at best) Billy Graham said,
“If God doesn’t judge America He will have to apologize to Sodom and Gomorrah.”
(attributed to Graham)
John
======= Ramona:
Isaiah 15:1-18:7
As I read chapters 15 & 16, I am intrigued by the judgment of Moab. Moab was Israel’s relative, conceived by an incestuous relationship between Lot, Abraham’s nephew, and Lot’s oldest daughter. Ruth, King David’s great-grandmother, was from Moab yet God does not look upon this nation or any nation by considering their blood relationship with Israel/Judah, he looks upon the nation’s relationship to Himself.
I think about how many of us think that we can skate into God’s kingdom based on who and what are in our genealogies. Our access to certain benefits upon the earth and in our countries and communities may be given or denied based on who are parents and forefathers were, but God is a forward looking God. Our past and current connections to great men and woman of God matter not unless we have a current relationship with Him. God has no grandchildren, only children.
Grace and peace,
Ramona
======= John:
Galatians 1
Two for two. I am keeping track of epistles and how many of the problems are “internal to the church” versus external persecution. How does this relate today to the problems of the church? Are most of our problems internal? do they revolve around unsound, watered down, or false gospels?????
======================================================
STERN, SOLEMN, and SEVERE
Galatians does not contain one word of commendation, praise, or thanksgiving. There is no request for prayer, and there is no mention of their standing in Christ. – Paraphrase from J. Vernon McGee
This “letter” is a declaration of emancipation from legalism of any type.
“Galatians is the strongest declaration of and defense of the doctrine of “justification by faith” in or out of Scripture.” – ibid
“Grace is a way “to life” and a way “of life”. – ibid.
======================================================
Paul’s background
and 180 degree turn to Christ.
Like I told my friend Ed – who takes Paul with a “grain of salt”. Either Paul is telling the Truth, and you better take him seriously, or Paul is lying or mistaken – and this whole Christian thing is for the “birds”.
I think when you go from leading persecutor of Christians to leading evangelist for Christians – that should be enough to sit up and take heed of what the man writes in his “letters”. Something happened!!!!
======================================================
Two points
1)patience
I always thought it would be neat to be like Paul. Get knocked off a horse, get up, commune with the Lord, and go out to your ministry.
I did not realize that given the time frames and dates implied in Paul’s bio here that Paul spent close to FOURTEEN years in Arabia. Doing what? My guess, is he was learning the gospel and applying it to what he knew as Pharisee regarding the Old Testament. I would not be surprised if Paul’s tutor here was Jesus Christ.
Makes the last two years I have been studying seem like a pittance. I am much more patient now regarding what God’s plans for me are in this life. If Paul took fourteen years before heading out – who am I to demand less????
2) James – Jesus’ brother
Gal1:19 “I saw none of the other apostles—only James, the Lord’s brother.” NIV
I have stayed away from this in the past, but this is the definative Greek statement in the Bible regarding James’ relationship to Jesus.
I know this will be hard for some to accept, but you need to examine it, and decide for oneself. James is not a brother “in” Christ – James is the brother “of” Christ. The Greek texts are consistent and clear in the grammatical structure of this verse.
Jesus having an earthly half-brother – if true – should have a profound effect on the theology of some “believers”. For others not so much.
Here is a link: analyzing Greek and going to extra-biblical sources starting in section 3.3. If you have a problem with this concept – PLEASE – just read through the article, think about it ,pray about it ,and decide for yourself.
http://www.christianorigins.com/doherty-muller.html
NOTE: One of the explanations given by some is that Joseph, being older, had children before marriage to Mary. But that can not be true. Jesus had blood rights to David’s throne thru Mary, but His legal rights (the “male” line) to the throne of David came through Joseph as the Eldest Child (adoptive status is same as natural status in those times). To be the eldest child with the legal rights to David’s throne – there could be no pre-existing living offspring of Joseph. Any other offspring of Joseph had to be after Jesus’ birth. God pays pretty good attention to “detail”, He does not violate standards He previously set up, sooooo……
John
======= Bethany:
This reading today in gal. ch. 1 was really speaking to me.
also with what you wrote about no-one appointing you to do this web-site missionary outreach …well, God used what you wrote today to really speak into my heart about what my mission will be!! thank you, and God Bless your efforts. You really are reaching people, whether you know it or not!
your friend,
Bethany
======= Susanne:
Haha!!!
Yup…. “Dive” was my same immediate thought!!!!!
…. sink or swim- just dive in! The outcome is of the Lord. He will bless obedience and choice to follow the Spirit’s lead. Mike- you are a testimony- worldwide!!! Thank you.
I’ve “senced” your CALL and i pray right now… in the Name of Jesus… a hedge of protection against anything that makes you “feel unqualified”. Lord, please bless Mike with courage to be simple, yet bold in sharing Your love with others and creativity to do it in all his “weakness”. Thank You Lord that You choose weak & show forth Yourself for me to “see”. I am encouraged and more! AMEN
In His Love, with a grateful heart, ~susanne
p.s. today our 2 sisters, Jen & Mae will meet personally! i share this for prayer request to any who are led. Jen has had somewhat of a challenge and asked for prayer regarding her father & cancer. i’m also sharing cuz i’m so excited for them both… excited to see God at “work” and how He ordains divine appointments!
Susanne
======= Jake:
Thank you for the UTube music. Today I want to dive into the bible and life with my Lord.
Jake
======= Karen:
I think, Mike, that the beauty of what you are doing is that it sets the mind to thinking more on what was read this morning. Sometimes we have a tendency to read it and forget it. You get one to pondering a bit more on just what was meant by what we read. Also, your referrals to other sources gives opportunity to dig deeper. I thank God that you have given so much thought to this Bible blog. HUGS!
Karen
======= Shari:
Mike, what you are doing is helping those who have not understood the bible be able to see it in a way that is a part of our daily lives. Please continue this for the thousands of people around the
world each day who depend on you. Blessings, Shari
======== Billy:
Mike, Praise the Lord !! that you were called to write this blog.
Billy
======= Anita:
Mike, I thank God and you every day that you were called to write this blog. This is the second year that I have participated in this blog and have gained so much from yours and Ramona’s comments and insights.
Anita
======= Bob:
Galatians: Sometimes the smallest voice we hear is the most profound. I was given a simple image of a Pastor’s collar just at the end of an intense Men’s Bible Study that provoked me to search out exactly what in Proverbs 23:12 we read: “Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge.” Now I am in Seminary. A call that I would resonate with what Martin Luther writes. “…do not become a teacher or preacher, in fact try to avoid it because it should be God that promotes you to that responsibility. It has to be in your bones and a burning fire in your soul to be God’s representative.” (Re: Acts 1:11-23)
Bob
======= Michelle:
Thank you for your dedication to this ministry. For years I have read with you as time and internet access allow. God is always so faithful.
Michelle
======= Jane:
Galatians 1:10 really spoke to me this am. I feel like I spent an eternity being s people pleaser. Being brought up in s large family I was taught not to ruffle feathers and promote peace. And to repress anger. Over time I learned not to have courage but seek to please. That’s different than what the bible teaches. It says please only God. Wow. I hsve learned this the hard way. Because I drilled this with control issues into my kids. I’m learning courage to speak up and give God glory and to seek to please God by biblical teaching
Jane
======== Sandra:
MIKE ,I BOLDLY APPLAUSE U FOR THIS BIBLE STUDY. GOD WORKING NG THRU U.I CAN SEE HOW DEEP U SEARCH AND MAPS,PICTURES AND THE MANY THINGS U POST ARE SO ENCOURAGING. MAY GOD EVEN DEEPLY BLESS U MORE. I ENJOY!!!!
Sandra
======== Imja:
Is. 16:5
In love a throne will be established;
in faithfulness a man will sit on it—
one from the house[c] of David—
one who in judging seeks justice
and speeds the cause of righteousness.
Gal. 1:10 and 15
10 Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.
15 But when God, who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me by his grace, was pleased 16 to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, my immediate response was not to consult any human being.
Ps.58:11
11 Then people will say,
“Surely the righteous still are rewarded;
surely there is a God who judges the earth.”
Proverbs 23:12
12 Apply your heart to instruction
and your ears to words of knowledge.
Shalom to all 🙂
Imja
======== Nancy:
Seeing how the church was influenced by false teaching caused me to think about what is happening today. Denominations are splitting over doctrine. Conservative vs liberal.
The liberals believe that gays should become ministers of the gospel. That it is not a sin to be gay. That the word homosexual only showed up in a 1947 translation & that it wasn’t the sin that condemned Sodom & Gomorrah. Conservatives believe that it is a sin.
I believe gay people can attend the church to become saved. Once saved they need to denounce that life style & strive to overcome it. Similar to a drunk becoming sober, or a thief to not steal etc. Ephesians 4.28. We all have sins we need to overcome.
My understanding is that the Liberals do not see it that way. That a person can continue in that lifestyle & be saved. They can become ministers of this gospel.
It is tragic what is happening, a new believer left my church to attend a liberal church because of it. Another person I’ve known for years lives in that life style & believes they were saved as a teenager. They quote scripture they believe support that lifestyle.
I believe 2 Corinthians 4.4 niv explains why this is happening.
“The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.”
Our world has lost its mooring. Whether these are the last days are not I can’t say. The early church was under Nero a horrible man & still the church survived. My prayer is to stand strong in these dark days & pray.
Nancy
========= Dee:
The Moabites..these were discussed on how they wanted to attack Israelites but saw the sz of Israel. They tried cursing Israelites but couldn’t get leaders to curse them. We always have a Moab in our life and there are always “Israelites”. What are we going to do? How will we react.?
Galatians..such a good book. Paul doesn’t beat around the bush telling that there is only one way and God’s Word is eternal..he is so bold and forthcoming and filled with the spirit.
Psalm 58..it talks about judging..are we in the right frame to judge? Can we should we,,?
Instruction and knowledge. Make sure you check on wisdom and have a knowledge deep and secure. Amen
Dee