September 1, Reading Notes

Job 40-42

Our last day in Job! This will be fun. Reading God's response to Job made me think of what Paul says in Romans 9:20, "But who are you, a man, to answer back to God? Will what is molded say to its molder, 'Why have you made me thus?'" It finally made sense to me what Paul is saying. He is simply answering this question in Rome with God's answer to Job. It has nothing to do with justice or fairness. Both Paul and God are saying that knowing God means trusting His actions because of His love and wisdom.

One note regarding the wildlife that is described below, remember that after the flood, things changed slowly. There was a massive climate change that resulted in the decline in the age of people and the dying off of certain types of animals. There were few people after the flood, allowing wildlife to grow undisturbed. Some of the types of animals on the ark may have lived for a time after the flood, but the climate and conditions on earth had changed. There were woolly mammoths, but somehow, through climate or the increased needs of growing human populations, they were killed off, similar to buffalo in North America. People lived close to rivers or where there was a supply of water. Although no one knows what the Behemoth and the Leviathan were, they could have been a large variety of something we have today that lived in those rivers and were a constant threat and challenge to the people.

Job 40

Vs. 1-2 The root of Job's problem had been finding fault with God. He accused God of being unjust.

Vs. 3-5 This is the first of Job's two replies to God.

Vs. 6-14 I think verse seven is funny. "Gird up your loins" (and fight like a ….). Obviously Job couldn't contend with God. Notice that God really has just been asking Job questions.

Vs. 15-24 I have a couple of questions here.

First, what was the Behemoth? It appears to be something that isn't around anymore. It seems that the common opinion is that it was a variety of hippopotamus, sort of what the woolly mammoth was to the elephant. Who knows. Growing up I always saw hippos as docile, fat animals living to get fat. Well here are some fun facts about hippos. Once they were common to all of Africa, including Egypt and the Nile, and Asia, including the areas around the Euphrates and Jordan rivers, and even Europe. No famous explorer of Africa was not attacked by a hippo. One explorer had his boat overturned and had his head and shoulders bit off. Apparently they are incredibly aggressive and on land they can outrun a man, even weighing 4000 pounds (the hippo, not the man). Now that we can kill them with guns, howitzers and atomic weapons, they are in decline because the ivory of their teeth does not yellow like an elephant's ivory, making it highly sought after. George Washington's teeth were not made of wood, but of hippo ivory. So, if there was a variety of hippo back then that was a little bigger, had a bigger tail and was meaner, it could well have been the behemoth. And apparently their tail does get stiff when they are mad, which apparently is always.

Second, why does God even use this illustration? Well, one reason is that they were apparently a hazard to anyone living along rivers, which was a lot of people. Another reason might be to mention that God made this very formidable animal that gave hunting parties fits. But for me it has more to do with the theme of the book: the hidden purpose of God. What was the purpose of that animal? Why did God make it? Who knows, but God knew and designed it as He chose.

Job 41

Enter the Leviathan. Apparently this was another river dweller and again the identity is unknown. It is thought that this could have been a very, very large crocodile.

Vs. 18-21 It is suggested that this could be poetic description of a crocodile coming up for air in the bright sun, the "light" in its eyes, the "smoke" coming out of its nostrils as it lets out air on the surface of the water creating a blowing of vapor that looked like smoke.

Again, even a nature lover might ask God why He made the Leviathan. Would it really be a loss if they went extinct? Does anyone "miss" the T-Rex? If you had lived near a river, you would never have let your kids go play at the shore if these things were around. It would have always been on your mind and trying to exterminate them would have been a generational endeavor.

Job 42

Vs. 1-6 Notice that Job quotes God twice, he confesses and repents.

Vs. 7-9 This is pretty interesting. God calls Job his servant four times. It never says that the friends prayed for Job, but Job prayed for them. God was not upset with Elihu.

Vs. 10-17 Notice the "condition" in verse ten.

Notice that it never mentioned any of Job's kids' names except these three daughters.

Tradition suggests that Job was 70 when this happened to him. And just as his prosperity was doubled after this event, so was his age. That is the suggested reason that he lived another 140 years.

As you read Job now, year after year, you will find new stuff each time you read it. Not only that, as you follow Christ in the harvest, as things happen to you and to others, what you've learned here will be used by the Spirit to teach you and to temper your heart. He will lead you to have a more eternal perspective on this life, and the Lord will lead you into more and more situations where you will learn to let go of expectations in this life on earth. As we follow Christ we learn to trust Him completely, and make Him and what you know of Him, enough to guide us through anything that happens to us.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oCrBczelMwM

2 Corinthians 5:11-21

This is a very well-known and cool part of the Bible. And to think, all of this is being expressed like this because of Paul's suffering and a conflict he's having with a church. It is God's wisdom.

V. 11 Notice that Paul talks about their turmoil and its results as the "fear" of God. This is their motivation for persuading others. The message of the persuasion, we'll see later, is for people to repent and be reconciled.

V. 12 Note that the criticism in Corinth that is against Paul and shredding the church is ever present in Paul's mind as he is writing. It was a weight that Paul constantly bore.

Vs. 13-15 This is Paul understanding the necessity of God making them weak. But instead of being driven by concern for themselves or driven by fear, look what controls them. And look what it made them do. A disciple is always oriented to the harvest, because the love of Christ is revealed in the harvest.

V. 16 Paul once regarded Jesus as the enemy and his followers as heretics. That was before he understood what is happening "spiritually" in the world and in the plan of God. Now Paul says, "we live by faith, not by sight." Our eyes are to be on the spiritual reality, and then we understand the physical in terms of the spiritual. Another way to say this is what Paul says in Romans 8:14, "For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God." We live on earth now understanding things spiritually, seeking spiritual direction, being led daily by the Spirit.

V. 17 Notice that this is a "creation," something made. Salvation is not membership to a club, where membership can be revoked due to bad behavior. It is being made, created. Salvation is something brought into life. This is why once we are saved or "created," we are always saved. You can revoke someone's membership, but you can't "un-create" something.

Vs. 18-21 Two things here. Disciples are always oriented to the harvest. "Ambassadors" is who God made us. To deny this is to get ourselves into a life we were not called to or equipped for. Our joy and strength and purpose is found in following Christ in the harvest.

Second, Paul is making sure they understand that this ministry is not something we grasp, but something that grips us. Paul wasn't putting himself forward, as if this was his career. Paul describes this life following Christ and speaking out to the lost as the irresistible vocation of anyone who has been seized by the love of Christ.

V. 21 This might have been a slight reminder to that Jewish audience and those Jewish super apostles that righteousness is not found in doing things Jewish, but in Christ alone.

Psalm 45

Now, I'm really not given to "spiritualizing" the meaning of the text, saying its real meaning is in something other than the physical event to which it was written. However, there is a prophetic element in lots of the Bible where a verse or event foreshadows something in the future. God shows us this is so. When we get to the NT and see some of the passages that Jesus or others used, we look back and say, "I would have never guessed that would also have a meaning for the future."

This psalm was apparently written for a wedding. But when you get to verse six, you see that this is quoted in Hebrews 1:8, "But of the Son he says, "Thy throne, O God, is forever and ever, the righteous scepter is the scepter of thy kingdom." God is saying that this verse has to do with Jesus being crowned king. This is also when He takes the church as His bride. So then, let's read the entire psalm as if it is referring to Jesus taking His throne and meeting with His church at the wedding feast.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGgX_oqdib4

Proverbs 22:14

There really is no such thing as "getting away" with something. If God lets you kick against the door until you "succeed," you are walking into judgment, not blessing.

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this link Every Day in the Word. If that doesn't work, go to http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/devotions/ and click on “Every Day in the Word.” 

I'm writing these comments to and for those who are following a One Year Bible and interested in growing deeper as a disciple, following Jesus in the harvest. My hope is to see the growth of a discipleship culture in the church. Groups of 3-4 disciples, meeting weekly, encouraging each other to follow Christ and work to reach out and make disciples who make disciples. The Bible itself is the most universal manual we have and key to our growth and service in Christ. Nothing keeps us more focused on why we are here or what we are to be doing. My comments are only meant to provide some explanation of the events or to show the flow of God's plan of redemption. My comments are in no way exhaustive, but are designed to keep us focused on Christ and our role in His harvest. My hope is that the people in these groups will grow in Christ and be willing, after a year, to find 3 others to meet with and encourage in their growth as disciples, disciples making disciples in the harvest.

If you would like a more descriptive commentary that is still readable and concise, I'd recommend the Bible Knowledge Commentary. It's keyed to the NIV, so the result is, the commentators are constantly telling you what the Greek or Hebrew is. That never hurts.

I am not endorsing any particular One Year Bible; in fact, I read something you don't, die revidierte Lutherbibel 1984.

Anyone reading along with us is welcome to do so and is encouraged to take their own notes and make their own observations. If the comments made do not agree with your particular tradition or understanding, that's OK. Nothing I've written is meant to criticize any point of view, but only to express the truth of what God has written to us, as I understand it.

August 31, Reading Notes

Job 37-39

Job 37

Notice all of the stormy imagery. It is thought that as Elihu was speaking, they all noticed that a storm was approaching and Elihu began to use it to describe God's power and wisdom.

V. 9 Notice the whirlwind. Job lost his children to something like this.

V. 13 This is probably the key to what Elihu was driving at. It is not just that God makes it happen, it is the stated motives that guide His hand and His actions.

Vs. 14-24 This is Elihu's final challenge to Job.

V. 15 This argument goes, "If you don't know this, then what right do you have to say what God is doing in this situation you are in?"

V. 19 Job wanted to talk to God. Elihu is suggesting that if Job isn't wise enough to figure out what God can create with a thought, how is he going to really duke it out with God?

Vs. 23-24 Again, Elihu justifies God.

Job 38-39

Job finally got what he wanted.  God arrived in the approaching storm.  Notice that God speaks to Job out of the very thing that killed his kids.

God never defends His actions in allowing this to happen to Job. At this point, we are the only ones who know the whole story. What God does is describe why Job should just trust Him. To do this, as my uncle says, first God takes Job on a nature hike and then He takes him to the zoo. Isn't it really totally beyond our comprehension how God can direct, control and sustain the entire universe, all of life? There is so much that exists that we don't even know about in the spiritual dimension, on the microscopic level, chemical reactions taking place in deep space (and what is space anyway?). And yet He doesn't even break a sweat to sustain it or create it. He holds it all together and directs it. And we know Him in the person and grace and salvation of Jesus our Lord. "Trust" is an awfully small word when we consider His work in our lives and how He uses us.

The point in all of this is that God's infinite wisdom and intricate sovereignty are so great, that we should trust Him for what we don't understand. If we know God in Christ, we know His love, His salvation and His work on this planet of death. That should be enough for us to trust Him completely, and take up our death daily and follow Him in the harvest.

2 Corinthians 4:13-5:10

In Paul's recent suffering he was overwhelmed by the emotions of certain death, and then all the distress and conflict he felt with the church in Corinth. Through that experience of suffering ("death") the Lord gave Paul what he needed to speak to this church.

2 Cor. 4:13-18

Vs. 13-15 In order to understand this you have to read Psalm 116. Paul is quoting verse ten. It is a psalm of deliverance. I bet he read that over and over during this time. Paul expected the leaders and people in Corinth to understand this reference since this was a very Jewish church.

Paul is saying that he and those with him shared the same experience as the psalmist. Even though they were threatened, they still believed and went on speaking for God. Paul says here that they kept on because they knew they would be raised with Christ. Paul knew that God would use that experience, however it turned out, to bring His grace further and to bring glory to His name.

Vs. 16-18 This is so much like what Jesus told His disciples. Jesus said they shouldn't fear those who could only kill the body. It was in all of His teaching that we are to live for the kingdom and leave the rest to Him.

Based on the resurrection and the spiritual reality given by God, we can risk it all for Him.

Notice that the Spirit can use the suffering of today to cause daily renewal and preparation.

V. 18 This assumes that a disciple following Christ in the harvest is learning to see the spiritual. This is not automatic. Many church goers are lost on earth and do not see God working to redeem, or see their part in it.

2 Cor. 5:1-10

This section explains verse 16-18. The point being that the body must die, but God uses that daily process of death to produce all sorts of wonderful things. But I would say that this process of death and renewal only really happens if our eyes are on the harvest and the eternal plan God that is working through Christ, through us, in this world.

V. 1 Notice the contrast between the tent and the house. Remember 1 Cor. 15:42

Vs. 2-5 This says that it is normal for us to groan while we are in this body, but this isn't just any groaning. We all groan. The context of Paul's groaning wasn't just his arthritis, it was his work on earth for Christ and the difficulty of following Christ bearing the body of death. It is a spiritual understanding of what is happening in life, understanding this body of death and understanding that our hope is in the resurrection. Read Romans 8:23. It seems kind of funny to say this, but if a person isn't groaning inwardly, it is very likely they are not in the harvest or a disciple and really don't have a very present longing for the resurrection.

Vs. 6-10 So this is why Paul has that attitude, Philippians 1:21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. 22 If it is to be life in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. 23 I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. 24 But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account.

V. 9 Notice our aim as we live and work in the harvest. Therefore there is not fear, but instead, expectation when we get to verse ten.

This entire spiritual perspective and spiritual life Paul is talking about here can only be found following Christ in the harvest, reaching out to the lost and making disciples who make disciples. If a person is not involved in that, they can never arrive at this heart and mind for Christ.

Psalm 44:9-26

After having read the first eight verses yesterday, were you ready for this? Suddenly it seems like everything reads like Job.

Vs. 8-16 If Job's friends heard this, they would say the people sinned.

Vs. 17-22 But, like Job, they had not sinned.

V. 22 Notice that Paul quotes this in Romans 8:36, "As it is written, 'For thy sake we are being killed all the daylong; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.'" If you reread this section of Romans you'll see that there is a very strong theme of being safe in the sovereign plan of God. But safety doesn't mean understanding what God does. Nor does safety mean not suffering during this time on earth.

Vs. 23-26 "for the sake of your steadfast love." We have read all of the historical events that happened in Israel. There will be a few more details in Jeremiah and Daniel, but basically we have everything. So, what could this event have been that was such a distress to Israel? The Sons of Korah wrote for the temple worship and so this must be the southern kingdom. When was there a time when the people were following God closely, but when there was an enemy at hand that was conquering the land. I would guess this was written during the time of Hezekiah when the Assyrian army was capturing the land.

Why was God allowing this? In His purpose, He was accomplishing a million things, changing the face of nations and empires. But why did Judah have to suffer like this? I'm sure there was more than one reason. But if this did happen when I think it did, the depth of their despair would be matched by the height of their praise when God visited the Assyrian army. Just like Job and Paul, suffering preceded praise and truly understanding the depth of God's wisdom.

I really like this old Promise Keepers song. In Christ we follow, wait and call.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMEaJPlFkn4

Proverbs 22:13

This is sort of like the joke, "I exercise every day. I do a half a sit up when I get up in the morning and I do the other half at night when I lay back down." There is some area in all of our lives where we are the sluggard.

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this link Every Day in the Word. If that doesn't work, go to http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/devotions/ and click on “Every Day in the Word.” 

I'm writing these comments to and for those who are following a One Year Bible and interested in growing deeper as a disciple, following Jesus in the harvest. My hope is to see the growth of a discipleship culture in the church. Groups of 3-4 disciples, meeting weekly, encouraging each other to follow Christ and work to reach out and make disciples who make disciples. The Bible itself is the most universal manual we have and key to our growth and service in Christ. Nothing keeps us more focused on why we are here or what we are to be doing. My comments are only meant to provide some explanation of the events or to show the flow of God's plan of redemption. My comments are in no way exhaustive, but are designed to keep us focused on Christ and our role in His harvest. My hope is that the people in these groups will grow in Christ and be willing, after a year, to find 3 others to meet with and encourage in their growth as disciples, disciples making disciples in the harvest.

If you would like a more descriptive commentary that is still readable and concise, I'd recommend the Bible Knowledge Commentary. It's keyed to the NIV, so the result is, the commentators are constantly telling you what the Greek or Hebrew is. That never hurts.

I am not endorsing any particular One Year Bible; in fact, I read something you don't, die revidierte Lutherbibel 1984.

Anyone reading along with us is welcome to do so and is encouraged to take their own notes and make their own observations. If the comments made do not agree with your particular tradition or understanding, that's OK. Nothing I've written is meant to criticize any point of view, but only to express the truth of what God has written to us, as I understand it.

August 30, Reading Notes

Job 34-36

As I read over this, it seems there are a couple of things to remember. First, in the final event, it is the Spirit who is writing this, so the message He is conveying is important for us. Second, Elihu, through the Spirit, puts his finger on some important points, but he is removed from Job's pain. In each chapter, we almost need to re-read chapter one to see what Job is grieving. Reading what Elihu says in correction to Job, you realize he didn't feel Job's agony. If this had happened to me, it would have been a miracle if I could have put two meaningful thoughts together. Job is speaking out of grief and incredible physical pain. Fourth, there is a reason this happened to Job, not only for his good, but for ours. Job was one of a kind, the most spiritual, righteous, God-loving man on earth. God can hit him hard and take him to task even in his extreme suffering, because of who God made him. Our job is to observe and learn what happened behind the scenes and what happened to Job.

This reminds me of a question I asked in the Acts class regarding why God didn't stop Paul before he was guilty of persecuting and killing so many believers. Why didn't God stop Paul? It was for His own purpose. God worked for good, for all, according to His wisdom, love and purpose in the lives of Paul and all those battered believers. And, Paul got the message. 1 Timothy 1:16 but I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost (of sinners), Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience for an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life. And like Job, Paul simply bowed to the sovereign might and wisdom of God. Here's the next verse. 1 Timothy 1:17 To the King of ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

Job 34

Vs. 1-6 This looks like Elihu's introduction to his next point. Notice how he asks permission and then how he restates a part of what Job said.

Vs. 7-9 This was kind of silly of Job to say. We'd say it was excusable because of his pain, but because of his pain, his narrow view of God's actions, and the pressure of his friends, Job showed what was in his heart. A statement like this is always wrong.

Vs. 10-11 Elihu justifies God. We may not understand God, but we know Him and should always justify God. Notice too that Elihu doesn't try to prove Job is wrong. Instead, he proves God is right.

Vs. 12-33 This sounds like what Job's friends said, but it is meant differently coming from Elihu. He doesn't think this happened to Job because Job sinned. He is simply saying that if you don't understand what God is doing, don't charge Him with injustice. He can't do wrong.

Vs. 34-37 This is the charge against Job. He has been prodded to accuse God of wrong.

Note, this is not the same as cursing God. Satan never won his bet with God. Job never stopped loving God.

Job 35

Chapters 35-37 roll together as one argument with two parts and they will be Elihu's final words.

Vs. 2-3 It seems there are two things here that Elihu thinks are wrong. First, Job demands the right to have an answer. Second, Job took the statement in 34:9 further, by saying it was of no advantage to be righteous instead of rebellious.

Vs. 5-8 This is an interesting statement, and even more interesting if you understand that it comes from God. We are not doing God a favor by being righteous, like cheering up the old boy. "Oh look, Dan obeyed. Now I feel better. Now I'm happy." God is complete in himself.

Vs. 9-15 It seems Elihu is saying that it is only pain that makes us want an answer from God. We never ask for an answer when things are going well. Duh! This means that God's "silence" is really our perception, and evidence that we are focused on us and really don't know God and His working. Why don't we demand that God tell us why things are going good? We don't mind His "silence" then, do we?

V. 16 The verdict: Job doesn't know God as well as he thought he did.

Job 36

In what follows, Elihu seems to finish showing that it is always better to be righteous and then moves to answering the question about our right to demand an answer.

Vs. 1-4 Unlike Job's friends who aimed at correcting Job, Elihu is focused on speaking on God's behalf.

Vs. 5-16 It seems Elihu is describing God's wisdom in dealing with people.

Vs. 17-23 The key verses here seem to be 22-23.

Vs. 24-33 Some people feel that as Elihu was speaking, a storm began forming on the horizon.

Elihu seems to be saying to Job and the others that we should always extol God's works and trust His heart, power and wisdom. This is why Job has no right to demand an answer, because of God's wisdom and power. This chapter flows into the next and then into God's description of His might and wisdom. We don't demand God to explain gravity to us, but we're sure thankful it works. We simply trust. And still, deep in Job, there was this sense of trust and understanding that directing all of God's power and wisdom, is a heart of love.

2 Corinthians 4:1-12

Paul is still describing the effects of how God brought him and his co-workers through the emotional turmoil they were in. As we see it here, God brought Paul through these troubles in this particular way to give him this heart and these words for the Corinthians.

Vs. 1-2 Bearing fruit in spite of their weakness, they see they have been given this ministry by God's mercy. Paul is justifying God. Again, you understand that Paul is also addressing criticism against him in Corinth. Paul didn't choose the ministry, God chose him for the ministry by His mercy.

Vs. 3-6 But what about Paul not being a good speaker? Just like us, Paul's clearest witness for Christ was His light shining in Paul's heart. So, it's not about us and our abilities, it is all about Him being able to simply shine through us. You don't have to be a well-educated super apostle for that to be possible.

Vs. 7-12 And, in submission to Christ, what comes out of the cracked pot? It is what God brings out through taking us through experiences that make us realize the greatness of His love and power and wisdom. Suffering in us produces life in others as we share what He is doing.

You understand then, that God is doing exactly what Paul is describing. God took Paul through great distress to prepare him to write these words to correct and bring life to this troubled church. Isn't it interesting that this is very much like what we're seeing in Job? And why not? It's the same author.

As disciples, we need to see this pruning by the Father as normal in the harvest. When you see how God led Job and Paul and so many others, should we expect something easier for ourselves? If we really desire God to use us to bear fruit following Christ on earth, we need to let Him shape us through suffering. It is easy to be fruitless, but fruitlessness and comfort is our choice, not what God has called us to. Knowing Christ and His blessing in the harvest will look more like what we're reading, than what most people in suburban America are living. Philippians 1:29 For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake, 30 engaged in the same conflict which you saw and now hear to be mine.

Psalm 44:1-8

Vs. 1-3 You did it then….

Vs. 4-8 And you do it now….

It is in God we trust. He is enough.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mS0SKY5cck

Proverbs 22:10-12

V. 10 this reads like Romans 16:17-20

V. 11 Maybe we are too tolerant of the cranky. If we really love purity of heart and gracious speech, we also need to rebuke the scoffer.

V. 12 The Lord sees it all. Nothing is hidden or will remain hidden.

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this link Every Day in the Word. If that doesn't work, go to http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/devotions/ and click on “Every Day in the Word.” 

I'm writing these comments to and for those who are following a One Year Bible and interested in growing deeper as a disciple, following Jesus in the harvest. My hope is to see the growth of a discipleship culture in the church. Groups of 3-4 disciples, meeting weekly, encouraging each other to follow Christ and work to reach out and make disciples who make disciples. The Bible itself is the most universal manual we have and key to our growth and service in Christ. Nothing keeps us more focused on why we are here or what we are to be doing. My comments are only meant to provide some explanation of the events or to show the flow of God's plan of redemption. My comments are in no way exhaustive, but are designed to keep us focused on Christ and our role in His harvest. My hope is that the people in these groups will grow in Christ and be willing, after a year, to find 3 others to meet with and encourage in their growth as disciples, disciples making disciples in the harvest.

If you would like a more descriptive commentary that is still readable and concise, I'd recommend the Bible Knowledge Commentary. It's keyed to the NIV, so the result is, the commentators are constantly telling you what the Greek or Hebrew is. That never hurts.

I am not endorsing any particular One Year Bible; in fact, I read something you don't, die revidierte Lutherbibel 1984.

Anyone reading along with us is welcome to do so and is encouraged to take their own notes and make their own observations. If the comments made do not agree with your particular tradition or understanding, that's OK. Nothing I've written is meant to criticize any point of view, but only to express the truth of what God has written to us, as I understand it.

August 29, Reading Notes

Job 31-33

Today we have Job's final argument of innocence to God. His friends will finally be silenced, but unknown to us they brought along a young disciple who really has been listening. Elihu has seen the error of both Job and his friends. Elihu is a little off track too, but he will show Job some things he had not considered. Because of this, Job remains silenced and is ready to hear and be humbled when God speaks.

Job 31

IF you are having a hard time keeping up with Job, or IF you are falling asleep, highlight the word "IF."

In looking at the things Job avoided and the things Job did, you have to look deeper than the "if." He lists these actions along with other words also. So, you'll see a lot of "If….and" combinations. And then there is "let."

V. 23 Deeply ingrained in Job's thinking toward God was fear. We could use more fear in our thinking about God. We still have it in our thinking that God is just a good old boy who chuckles at our sin and looks the other way, and now even more because of grace. Job's fear of God was at the root of what both he and his friends didn't understand about God. They were focused on blessing and punishment having a one-to-one relationship to God's justice. God's sovereignty, wisdom and eternal plan weren't part of their thinking. That God could do things that didn't make sense, and that He could bring pain without judgment and allow the wicked to grow and prosper wasn't yet in their thinking. Trusting God's wisdom, love and sovereignty brings health to our fear of God, and it brings maturity to our view of God and our place on the planet during this time.

Job 32

Enter Elihu.

V. 2 Notice that Elihu caught that Job never justified God for this. It never entered Job's thinking that what God was doing could be right, not because of justice, but because of his eternal wisdom and understanding.

V. 6 The rest of this chapter is Elihu, in some convoluted near eastern way asking permission to join in the debate. When we think of Elihu being a young man, remember that this is in comparison to Job and his friends. If they were all in their 80s or older, Elihu could have been the youngster at 60.

Vs. 11-14 Notice that Elihu had been carefully listening.

Vs. 18-19 At that time the belly, not the heart, was the seat of emotions. Interesting imagery.

V. 22 This is basically saying that he has no agenda. What he'll say is simple and sincere.

Job 33

V. 1 What is interesting is that Elihu is the only one who uses Job's name.

Vs. 1-7 He is asking Job to listen, and telling Job he will not hammer him like his friends did.

Vs. 8-11 He has been listening. He repeats the kernel of Job's argument back to Job.

Vs. 12-33 This is the key to Elihu's entire word to Job and he doesn't beat around the bush.

First, God does speak, just not the way we might think, or the way we might like. Can you see the ways that Elihu suggests that God speaks?

Second, Elihu suggests that God speaks to warn us and to keep us from doing stupid stuff before we fall into it. This was something that no one had thought of. Elihu is saying that God uses pain to get our attention before something happens, not as a judgment, but as a help, a warning. In the coming chapters, God's actions will be described as going even deeper than just working with us. Yet, isn't it cool that Elihu gets right to the matter and gives Job something to think about immediately?

So here we are as disciples, working in the harvest and something "bad" happens. Here is the real question: How long does it take you to understand emotionally that it was God and not others who blocked you? I say "emotionally" because it is easy to "think" the right answer and still get incredibly depressed and bitter. How long does it take us to redirect our following in the harvest once we grasp this, or do we mourn for the door of opportunity or season of life that just closed? Even as I write this, I know how important and hard it is to learn these lessons. I've gotten better, more mature, but I still bear some scars from not having grasped this years ago. But then, the Lord knew I needed those scars to learn. So even in failure there is victory if we learn to love Him, if we grow to know Him better and trust Him as we keep on following in the harvest. I had a little motto above my desk in Germany: The only way to fail in Christ, is to quit. Boy, did I learn the truth of that the hard way. And happily, I'm still learning and trusting and following. Christ is enough and that's enough.

2 Corinthians 3

V. 1 After describing how the Lord worked in his heart, Paul realized that talking about himself like this was going to cause some of his critics to voice this complaint against him again.

Apparently, some of these critics were very Jewish and demanded that visitors who came to the church should bring a letter of recommendation stating that they were "kosher."

Vs. 2-3 This is very simple and powerful. The work of God was done by God through Paul & Co. God was their recommendation and the Corinthians were proof, like a letter. The work of the Holy Spirit cannot be faked. What happened to the Corinthians was proof that Paul was genuine. I'm wondering if the critics had fruit. I wonder if they could show that God had used them to save the lost and to make disciples who made disciples, or were they "teachers" and not "evangelists." Jesus said, "by their fruit you will know them." There are a lot of Christians who are all argument and opinion, but no fruit.

Notice here that Paul uses the tablets of stone vs. human hearts. That suggests that these super apostles were very Jewish, trying to bring the church back to a more Jewish look. God promised in the OT He would give the Jews hearts of flesh. That would be the work of the Spirit.

Vs. 4-6 Notice how Paul refers again to his weakness and that God brings about the blessing almost involuntarily.

Vs. 7-18 This seems to be Paul expressing that the law was work and that it didn't help. The old covenant couldn't be realized without the new covenant and the freedom of the spirit.

V. 18 There is not a lot of ritual and strain involved in standing before the Lord with an unveiled face. It is the freedom of knowing Christ. It was the Spirit that gave Paul the power for bearing fruit in ministry, not Paul himself. Salvation and living for Christ doesn't come from works, but from the Spirit.

Psalm 43

Vs. 1-2 The trial of waiting on God was intensified because of others. We've seen this in Job.

Vs. 3-4 The prayer for God's guidance and light. This yearning for God is tied to the altar (cleansing and worship) and the presence of God.

V. 5 As we read yesterday in Psalm 42, the head might understand; but the soul, the emotions of this body of death, can still be in turmoil. As Job learned, we have to have total trust in God. He is our hope and our salvation.

The very fact that we have psalms like this, inspired by the Spirit, means that God knows we will always struggle with our emotions and with waiting on Him. The struggle brings us closer to the Lord. I guess that is a part of what Elihu was telling Job.

This song is a good reminder to rest in Christ as we follow and go through stuff like Job and Paul did.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fIgVU_5FsqA

Proverbs 22:8-9

Amen.

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this link Every Day in the Word. If that doesn't work, go to http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/devotions/ and click on “Every Day in the Word.” 

I'm writing these comments to and for those who are following a One Year Bible and interested in growing deeper as a disciple, following Jesus in the harvest. My hope is to see the growth of a discipleship culture in the church. Groups of 3-4 disciples, meeting weekly, encouraging each other to follow Christ and work to reach out and make disciples who make disciples. The Bible itself is the most universal manual we have and key to our growth and service in Christ. Nothing keeps us more focused on why we are here or what we are to be doing. My comments are only meant to provide some explanation of the events or to show the flow of God's plan of redemption. My comments are in no way exhaustive, but are designed to keep us focused on Christ and our role in His harvest. My hope is that the people in these groups will grow in Christ and be willing, after a year, to find 3 others to meet with and encourage in their growth as disciples, disciples making disciples in the harvest.

If you would like a more descriptive commentary that is still readable and concise, I'd recommend the Bible Knowledge Commentary. It's keyed to the NIV, so the result is, the commentators are constantly telling you what the Greek or Hebrew is. That never hurts.

I am not endorsing any particular One Year Bible; in fact, I read something you don't, die revidierte Lutherbibel 1984.

Anyone reading along with us is welcome to do so and is encouraged to take their own notes and make their own observations. If the comments made do not agree with your particular tradition or understanding, that's OK. Nothing I've written is meant to criticize any point of view, but only to express the truth of what God has written to us, as I understand it.

August 28, Reading Notes

Job 28-30

At this point in Job the temptation is to go, "Whatever!" or "Oh, be quiet." But let's not be like his friends. There is still some fun to be had.  As you go through these chapters, do some exercise. "You mean like do 25 pushups and 25 squats after each chapter?" Good thought. I should probably take your advice, but no, Bible study exercise. Underline words that are repeated and look for organization in the arguments. These chapters work out well for that.

Job 28

First, read the chapter through and see if you can figure out where Job is going. Look for key verses where Job takes his "search" one step further.

If you've done that, or just want a shortcut, then read these verses one after the next and you'll understand the organization. Verses 1, 12, 20, 23, 28. Wasn't that fun? That's what you begin to notice if you read your Bible year after year.

Job 29

Job is not only mourning the good ol' days, but he is also recounting, honestly, that he was really a very cool guy and a helper of many.

The word to guide you here is probably "I." Follow it and you'll follow Job through his photo album.

Job 30

Vs. 1-18 Now look for "now."

Vs. 19-23 This change will be pretty obvious to you because Job starts saying "you."

Vs. 24-31 Job now seems to be summing up the past three chapters, lamenting how life has totally crashed in on him.

If you were in a discipleship group, you'd be discussing what you found in these chapters.

I know it is hard to be patient with all of Job's lament, but there is something for us in this as disciples. There is deep suffering on this planet and as we follow Christ; for example, as Paul did, there are seasons of darkness. What proves spiritual maturity and understanding of God more clearly, than following Him through "pitch black" life and still embracing the love of Christ and the wisdom of God? Anyone can follow or sound spiritual when everything is great and you're on your way to Applebee's. For most people on this planet, life resembles Job more than it does Applebee's. How do you really tell someone to hang on in the storm unless you've hung on in the storm? How do you learn how to hang on in the storm? You go through the storm and love and trust Christ, and make Him totally enough. Oh, and it really helps to read Job.

2 Corinthians 2:12-17

This is a very short reading today, but very important for a few reasons.

Vs. 12-13 This is Paul completing the story of his inner conflict with this situation in Corinth. He has a father's heart for this church and was unable to find rest.

Two things are interesting here. First, God didn't give Paul rest. He couldn't settle his own heart even though he was a very spiritual guy. Second, there was a door for ministry opened to him, but Paul still couldn't rest. What kind of minister was Paul to let his inner conflict ruin his chance to have an impact on these people? He was normal.

Vs. 14-17 Now this is Paul explaining what he learned in all of that unrest and conflicting feelings. This is also how Paul dealt with walking away from an open door. We would not have these verses if he had not followed the Lord through this storm in his life. Actually, this entire description of what Paul learned will continue until 7:5, where Paul will begin talking about meeting Titus. To me this is amazing. Paul is telling us firsthand what he learned in the storm, making sense of the problem in Corinth and the unrest in Asia and in his own heart.

V. 14 There was turmoil and not knowing what to do, but what Paul learned was that even in this confusion of heart, God leads. That's pretty cool.

Vs. 14-16 And what about that open door that Paul had to leave? Even for that brief moment, He saw how Christ used him in the harvest. Although his mind was not at peace, in Christ, the presence of Paul & Co. and their sincerity still attracted some and repelled others. God still used them, involuntarily. Paul was amazed. (By the way, Paul came back to Troas later.)

V. 17 This confirmed the truth, for Paul, against all the accusations (peddlers of God's Word). Note that there is a connection of words here with those in 1:12. God, Paul and the others because they sincerely followed Christ in the harvest. It was not based on their cunning, market research, wisdom or strength. They loved Christ, followed Him in the harvest, and God did the rest.

Can God really use us when we're confused and broken? Do we have an appearance to keep up? In a moment, God humbled Paul more than he was already humbled. Paul was already broken, but God made the crack bigger and more fragrance came out. So now Paul is amazed and praising God. That's pretty cool.

All this talk about fragrance made this song come to mind.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aP2kZCigZKE&feature=related

Psalm 42

So, this is the second time this year you've read Psalm 42. Does it have any different sense for you now since we're reading Job and 2 Corinthians. In a way, it seems to me that all of the emotions of waiting and hope and suffering roll together through all these books. In a way, it intensifies the message of hope and deliverance.

V. 10 Notice the mention of "bones." Then check out Job 30:16 & 30. In my Bible they are all on opposite pages so I can circle each one and connect them with a line.

This psalm is really about someone who is depressed and holding on. There are probably hundreds of pages of videos on line about this psalm, many of them surprisingly coming from Holland.

How can you do Psalm 42 without including this song?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5nrXkM-4VAM&playnext=1&list=PL533B3AC3DBEF22D0

The video links below emphasize the whole message of the psalm. On the second video, if you just want the song, move the time bar to two minutes.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-eTRaHYbD0Q

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N_pMMQhQRco&list=PLCC630016C26CA8FD&index=6&feature=plpp

Proverbs 22:7

Is this saying to stay out of debt or not to get poor? Humanly speaking, I guess this is true, but it is good to know that the Lord is Lord of them all. To me, working in the harvest as disciples makes being rich on earth very irrelevant.

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this link Every Day in the Word. If that doesn't work, go to http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/devotions/ and click on “Every Day in the Word.” 

I'm writing these comments to and for those who are following a One Year Bible and interested in growing deeper as a disciple, following Jesus in the harvest. My hope is to see the growth of a discipleship culture in the church. Groups of 3-4 disciples, meeting weekly, encouraging each other to follow Christ and work to reach out and make disciples who make disciples. The Bible itself is the most universal manual we have and key to our growth and service in Christ. Nothing keeps us more focused on why we are here or what we are to be doing. My comments are only meant to provide some explanation of the events or to show the flow of God's plan of redemption. My comments are in no way exhaustive, but are designed to keep us focused on Christ and our role in His harvest. My hope is that the people in these groups will grow in Christ and be willing, after a year, to find 3 others to meet with and encourage in their growth as disciples, disciples making disciples in the harvest.

If you would like a more descriptive commentary that is still readable and concise, I'd recommend the Bible Knowledge Commentary. It's keyed to the NIV, so the result is, the commentators are constantly telling you what the Greek or Hebrew is. That never hurts.

I am not endorsing any particular One Year Bible; in fact, I read something you don't, die revidierte Lutherbibel 1984.

Anyone reading along with us is welcome to do so and is encouraged to take their own notes and make their own observations. If the comments made do not agree with your particular tradition or understanding, that's OK. Nothing I've written is meant to criticize any point of view, but only to express the truth of what God has written to us, as I understand it.

August 27, Reading Notes

Job 23-27

What is kind of interesting to see in Job is that as a result of this conflict with his friends, Job is getting clearer in his thinking. It's almost like he is coming closer to understanding God in what is happening to him. When God makes his statements to Job at the end, some of what He says sounds like some of what Job is beginning to say. This is all to suggest that there is even some wisdom in God allowing these friends to misunderstand Job the way they did. When God finally speaks, Job has almost come to the place of solving the mystery for himself.

Job 23

V. 7 Job is confident that if he were to present his case to God, he would be acquitted. He is right in that, but wrong in the reason for this trial.

V. 14 Some light is breaking through here.

Job 24

V. 1 Job knows the wicked will be judged. But this entire ordeal has made him wonder why God delays. The answer to this will be the same answer as to Job's trial. Trust in God's wisdom and goodness.

V. 12 This is a pretty strong statement by Job, but it makes more sense if you understand him as saying that God doesn't execute judgment immediately.

Vs. 22-23 So, why does God allow this?

Job 25

Bildad gives the final and shortest speech.

V. 4 Notice that what he says here, and what all Job's friends have said, is hinged on these words which they heard from a spirit. Actually, all the words and vision from Satan did was to confirm what they already falsely believed. Knowing God through His Word is the answer. If you only know the Word, or you just have "god fuzziness" in your heart, you'll be equally wrong. Paul said what we all really need, "That I might know Him."

Job 26

These are Job's closing words of argument, from here to chapter 32. This part of Job's argument seems to show that God's power and ways are deeper than our understanding. That will be good for Job to remember in a few chapters.

Job 27

V. 2 Job still thinks he got a raw deal from God.

Vs. 7-23 But Job acknowledges that the wicked eventually are judged. He just doesn't include himself with the wicked. He is still thinking along the old lines: "The wicked get judged, the righteous get blessed. I'm righteous and have incurred judgment, so God made a mistake." God will correct this wrong thinking in a few chapters.

2 Corinthians 1:12-2:11

2 Cor. 1:12-24

V. 12 Paul is gently defending himself here. His mention of conscience, simplicity, sincerity, etc., shows that he's dealing with criticism. Notice that the mention of earthly wisdom is sort of what Paul said in chapter one of 1 Corinthians.

V. 13 No hidden agenda or ulterior motives.

Vs. 15-24 What you notice in this section is Paul's outpouring of heart to show the Corinthians that he loves them and is working for their good. This will be typical of the letter up to chapter nine. This gentleness and expression of how God soothed Paul's own heart will explain some of his digressions.

V. 17 I think the best way to understand this is as follows. At the end of 1 Corinthians, Paul mentioned that neither he nor Apollos would be able to visit them. They apparently had deep issues that needed an authority figure. It seems that Paul made an unplanned visit to Corinth and it was a real showdown. He planned to go again, but instead, decided to send a very strong letter. The fact that Paul decided to forgo this second visit was used by his critics as meaning he was insincere, just saying what he thought the Corinthians wanted to hear.

Vs. 18-20 Paul is motivated by the glory of God and the work of Christ, not politics.

V. 21 Notice how Paul is trying to describe the bond he has with them.

V. 22 What you don't see here is that the word "testimony" in verse 12 and the word "witness" in verse 22 are the same word and it sort of ties this section together. Both Paul's conscience and God bear witness to Paul's sincere and pure handling and intentions in this matter.

Vs. 23-24 Do you see how Paul is trying to answer their suspicions and still express his love? Paul doesn't "lord it over them," but works with them.

2 Cor. 2:1-11

V. 1 After sending 1 Corinthians, Paul made an unplanned visit and it was a hard one.

Vs. 2-4 Apparently Paul found his "soft side." Actually, what you see is Paul letting them into his reasoning and his heart in making these decisions. These aren't "rabbit trails," but instead he is opening up to show them the process of his thinking. He is trying to describe the influence of his affection for them in making these decisions.

Vs. 5-11 It seems likely that this letter was sent to reprimand someone who was creating dissention against authority. He and Paul probably had it out. Rather than Paul going back to confront this person, he wrote the letter to tell the church to correct this man before Paul returned. This showed their spiritual maturity in standing for Paul and following the Word. Paul reminds the church to show love and forgiveness to this repentant person.

Just as side notes here:

2 Timothy 2:24 And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kindly to everyone, an apt teacher, forbearing, 25 correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant that they will repent and come to know the truth, 26 and they may escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will.

And actually written from Corinth when Paul made his scheduled visit over the winter - Romans 16:17 I appeal to you, brethren, to take note of those who create dissensions and difficulties, in opposition to the doctrine which you have been taught; avoid them.

Earlier this year I spoke to a member of a search committee who expressed a major problem with someone on their board. My advice to him was to take care of the problem before they hired a pastor. It amazes me that groups have problems, won't deal with them and expect someone totally new and unsuspecting to move his family, relocate, enter a situation, and then find the church is built over a cesspool of problems and dishonesty. And we wonder why the harvest gets neglected. Paul's simplicity needs to be modeled in following Christ. To follow Him in the harvest, the group needs to be honest, and behavior needs to reflect love and obedience to Christ. Ignoring problems makes it impossible to move forward in love.

Psalm 41

It appears that David considered himself to be this poor man. When he was running from Saul for those ten years living in caves and on the open fields in the wilderness, he was certainly poor. From verse five, it seems that David is still running, but having seen God save him in many small ways, his faith was strong. He was suffering, but he still believed.

Vs. 5-9 Doesn't this sound like Job?

Notice that verse nine is prophetically referring to Jesus.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4qPceadBMU&feature=related

Proverbs 22:5-6

V. 5 I think it is safe to assume that this is generally how God does things, but Job's friends were telling Job that this is what had happened to him.

V. 6 Every believing parent's prayer.

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this link Every Day in the Word. If that doesn't work, go to http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/devotions/ and click on “Every Day in the Word.” 

I'm writing these comments to and for those who are following a One Year Bible and interested in growing deeper as a disciple, following Jesus in the harvest. My hope is to see the growth of a discipleship culture in the church. Groups of 3-4 disciples, meeting weekly, encouraging each other to follow Christ and work to reach out and make disciples who make disciples. The Bible itself is the most universal manual we have and key to our growth and service in Christ. Nothing keeps us more focused on why we are here or what we are to be doing. My comments are only meant to provide some explanation of the events or to show the flow of God's plan of redemption. My comments are in no way exhaustive, but are designed to keep us focused on Christ and our role in His harvest. My hope is that the people in these groups will grow in Christ and be willing, after a year, to find 3 others to meet with and encourage in their growth as disciples, disciples making disciples in the harvest.

If you would like a more descriptive commentary that is still readable and concise, I'd recommend the Bible Knowledge Commentary. It's keyed to the NIV, so the result is, the commentators are constantly telling you what the Greek or Hebrew is. That never hurts.

I am not endorsing any particular One Year Bible; in fact, I read something you don't, die revidierte Lutherbibel 1984.

Anyone reading along with us is welcome to do so and is encouraged to take their own notes and make their own observations. If the comments made do not agree with your particular tradition or understanding, that's OK. Nothing I've written is meant to criticize any point of view, but only to express the truth of what God has written to us, as I understand it.

August 26, Reading Notes

Job 20-22

As I read this again today, it reminded me how some of the stuff Job's friends say is really good. The last part of what Eliphaz says in chapter 22 reads like a psalm. But what are we learning here? Life on earth is not heaven on earth. The global spiritual and earthly drama is deadly. In the plan of redemption and purpose of God, He works in complete love and justice and wisdom. We don't see that, but that doesn't change Him. In His plan, He didn't even spare His Son, but as Paul says in Romans 8:31-32, "What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also with Him graciously give us all things?"

Job 20

Zophar is determined that the wicked never win on earth. As he describes their demise and their crimes, he is probing to see if he can touch a nerve with Job. Nice guy.

Job 21

This is Job being very dark in his words. Although justice will be executed by God, that doesn't mean it happens on the earth. Job is telling them to really look around instead of just spouting religious baloney.

V. 5 The key here is that Job is righteous, and look what happened to him. If the only things that matter in the world are blessing and justice, then they should be appalled at what happened to Job.

V. 7 What Job said here made me think of what Paul said in Romans 9:17 For the scripture says to Pharaoh, "I have raised you up for the very purpose of showing my power in you, so that my name may be proclaimed in all the earth."

In God's redemptive purpose He allows the ungodly to prosper for His reasons. Surely one of the reasons God allowed William Randolph Hearst to have the influence he had, was to tell his reporters to "puff Graham" (give big exposure) during a crusade in 1949. The media exposure helped propel Billy and his crusades onto the front page and the front room of America. That example is visible and obvious. There are millions of examples happening around us where God allows those who hate Him to prosper, but He is using them for His ultimate purpose. And in His wisdom and power, God is able to do this with perfect righteousness, justice and love, honoring our free will to whatever degree that free will exists.

Job 22

This begins round three.

Vs. 5-9 is Eliphaz just guessing as to what Job might have done. There is good truth in much of what he says, but he is completely wrong about Job. These blind accusations were criminal. And we know Job is innocent.

Vs. 21-30 This would have given Job hope if this destruction in his life was because of sin, but because there was no sin, these words would hurt Job instead of heal him.

2 Corinthians 1:1-11

When you think of Paul, you see that he was no stranger to suffering. In fact, when Jesus called Paul He said, Acts 9:15 But the Lord said to him, "Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel; 16 for I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name." A lot of Paul's deep suffering came from believers, and particularly from this church.

Corinth was a trial for Paul. Not only did Paul speak strongly in 1 Cor., but he will speak strongly here too, but only at the end. In both letters he had to defend himself; in fact, some say that 2 Corinthians is nothing but Paul having to defend himself, not for his sake, but to correct and balance the church. No other church that we know of had this many letters written to it. According to what we find in both letters, there were actually four letters written and two were lost. In 1 Cor. 5 Paul mentions a letter he had written, then came the writing of 1 Corinthians. Later Paul wrote a letter mentioned in 2 Cor. 2:2-3 which was very strong, and got lost, and now he is writing 2 Corinthians. This was a high maintenance church. This is the only church where Jesus appeared to Paul to encourage him to persevere.

But, like Job, as a result of the problems and Paul's suffering, we get some amazing teaching and we see into the heart of this model disciple following Christ in the harvest, making disciples who make disciples. Just like Job's confrontation with his friends, much of what Paul expresses here from his heart would never have been put on paper if he hadn't suffered emotionally because of these people. God had a purpose for Paul and the Corinthians and for us in what happened here. Basically, Paul shares how God has soothed him and made sense of this in Paul's heart in chapters 1-9. It is like Paul explaining how God has helped him. Chapters 10-13 are Paul taking up the challenge against him by the Jewish super apostles who were ruining Corinth.

How do you start a letter of correction? Paul begins by focusing on how this all made sense to Paul. God was working in him, molding him through suffering and adversity to make him a minister for Christ and a blessing for others.

Vs. 3-7 Job couldn't yet see that his sufferings were going to used by God to encourage many generations of men and women. Paul was experiencing this as it was happening. As disciples, nothing happens to us that is random. The Father prunes us, not because of disobedience, but so we will be more fruitful. In Paul's case, the suffering was not just a part of following Christ, it made him more skilled in following Christ.

Vs. 8-11 This might have been the horrible night of shouting in Ephesus in Acts 19. The effect was that they thought they would die. In addition to this fun, Paul was deeply worried for the church in Corinth. Apparently he had made a quick unplanned visit to Corinth after sending 1 Cor., and this meeting must have been a fight and very upsetting. So he sent them a very strong letter via Titus (a letter after 1 Cor. which was lost) and then he was terribly worried about the response of the church. Oh, and did I mention he thought he was going to die?

Somehow we get the idea that if we are really, really, really mature in Christ we won't get stressed. I always think of Paul here, the guy who had been in the third heaven, getting rattled in the danger and heat of the moment, thinking he would surely die. But even in that emotion and fear, God used it to teach Paul what we're reading here, equipping us for the harvest. There was no way to burn this on Paul's heart except to take him through the furnace of adversity. Reading books and seminary classes only go so far. And we are no exception.

Psalm 40:11-17

You feel David's desperation in this psalm. Reading this psalm along with Job and Paul gives you a sense of weight, needing God and His help. You sense the hope and understanding of eventual victory, but it is straining under the present weight of danger. In this danger you see the weakness of the body of death in its despair, its fear, its loneliness, its desire to run and seek immediate comfort and security. That's us too, even as disciples.

The second video below is a skit done to "Everything" by Lighthouse. What I like about the skit is that it deals with someone who already knows Christ. Even as believers we need deliverance daily and our track record of being full devoted followers of Christ in the harvest, does not look good. We need deliverance, but only find it when Christ and His Word and mission are everything to us.

The first video is the skit and the song. If you have good hearing, you only need the skit. You'll enjoy it.

The second video is the song and the text. If you'd like to see the song text as you watch the skit, and would like to try something fancy, start the second video (song and text) and then put the cursor on the start button for the first video. When the second video has run for 9 seconds, start the first video and mute it. I enjoy complex stuff like that, but if it's too much for you and you'd rather watch it full screen, just watch the first video. You'll enjoy the skit and its message of deliverance.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cyheJ480LYA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fjDojEOiMcE

Proverbs 22:2-4

We're OK up until verse four. How do we understand this? I would understand this with Jesus' words about our treasure being in heaven and living here, serving in humility. Paul had riches, honor and life in Christ, though as he told the Corinthians, "to the present hour we hunger and thirst, and are ill clothed and buffeted and homeless." Working in the harvest makes you rich in the closeness of Christ and the blessings of the gospel.

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this link Every Day in the Word. If that doesn't work, go to http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/devotions/ and click on “Every Day in the Word.” 

I'm writing these comments to and for those who are following a One Year Bible and interested in growing deeper as a disciple, following Jesus in the harvest. My hope is to see the growth of a discipleship culture in the church. Groups of 3-4 disciples, meeting weekly, encouraging each other to follow Christ and work to reach out and make disciples who make disciples. The Bible itself is the most universal manual we have and key to our growth and service in Christ. Nothing keeps us more focused on why we are here or what we are to be doing. My comments are only meant to provide some explanation of the events or to show the flow of God's plan of redemption. My comments are in no way exhaustive, but are designed to keep us focused on Christ and our role in His harvest. My hope is that the people in these groups will grow in Christ and be willing, after a year, to find 3 others to meet with and encourage in their growth as disciples, disciples making disciples in the harvest.

If you would like a more descriptive commentary that is still readable and concise, I'd recommend the Bible Knowledge Commentary. It's keyed to the NIV, so the result is, the commentators are constantly telling you what the Greek or Hebrew is. That never hurts.

I am not endorsing any particular One Year Bible; in fact, I read something you don't, die revidierte Lutherbibel 1984.

Anyone reading along with us is welcome to do so and is encouraged to take their own notes and make their own observations. If the comments made do not agree with your particular tradition or understanding, that's OK. Nothing I've written is meant to criticize any point of view, but only to express the truth of what God has written to us, as I understand it.

August 25, Reading Notes

Job 16-19

I really wonder if Job would have said some of this if his friends hadn't accused him. It seems to me that Job's friends were the greatest challenge that Satan threw at him. In defense of his friends, they had been mobilized by a lying vision and so they thought they were on a mission. But, if they had known God as deeply as Job did, they would have known, too, that Job wasn't guilty and that something else was going on. In that case, their only recourse would have been to comfort Job and strengthen him until God spoke.

Job 16

V. 5 The irony of how they were treating Job is that he was a champion of the weak and knew how to encourage them. Job would have treated them with kindness.

V. 7 It isn't God who is wearing out Job, it is Job's friends. But wait, the fact that God is allowing this, means that God is involved. But, for what purpose?

V. 9 Job is suffering in pain and grief and now he has Moe, Larry and Curly entertaining him, so we should go easy on him. Still, he is wrongly accusing God of motives like hate. Job has something to learn.

V. 17 sounds like Isaiah 53:9.

V. 19 This verse hints to Job holding some knowledge of God that told him there was still hope.

Job 17

Vs. 6-8 Notice the reaction of the righteous to Job. They are appalled and naturally assume that Job has hidden, unconfessed sin. Otherwise this wouldn't happen to him, right?

Job 18

This is like tag-team wrestling, except Job is alone and there are three of them fighting against Job. Now Bildad enters the ring.

If you look at what Bildad says, he is basically saying, "This is what happens to the wicked. Oh look, it's just what happened to you. Any questions?"

Job 19

This is a very strong chapter.

V. 2 They were destroying Job with their misapplied righteousness.

Vs. 13-19 Can you imagine this? Everyone was condemning Job because of what had happened to him: everyone he had helped, his family, the entire community. That is a lot of rejection.

V. 21 What a sincere cry for help and compassion.

V. 25 Job doesn't understand what has happened to him, but there is something he knows because of knowing God. He knows that there will be a fair, final judgment and in that judgment he will be vindicated.

Vs. 28-29 Job knows his friends will be judged for what they are doing.

1 Corinthians 16

V. 1 Notice that Paul says this is the same thing he directed the churches in Galatia to do. We've seen this reminder to the Corinthians ever since the first chapter. Paul tells the Corinthians that he is giving them the same teaching and directives that he gives everywhere in every church.

This "encouragement" for them to help the church in Jerusalem will continue into 2 Corinthians and be complete when Paul writes Romans, which is actually written from Corinth just before Paul heads to Jerusalem with this gift.

Vs. 5-14 I think these verses comprise a unit, because the Corinthians need help now, but the help they thought they needed wasn't available.

Vs. 5-9 Paul was busy in Ephesus.

Vs. 10-11 Timothy was probably returning with the letter, but it is clear from chapter 4 that some people didn't respect him. He would probably be a help to those who were really following Christ, but not the critics.

V. 12 Apollos wasn't in a hurry to visit Corinth.

Vs. 13-14 Therefore Paul tells them to stand strong in the Lord.

Vs. 15-18 And Paul tells them to look to the servants / leaders among them. Stephanas and his family had devoted themselves to the service of the saints. They might not have been "super" apostles, but they were worth following. Paul urges them to receive the recognition of the church. Notice that Paul talked about people being recognized or not recognized at the end of chapter 14. I was reading this morning of Jesus teaching His disciples that the humble servant would be the greatest among them. Looking at Corinth, I don't think they were looking for that kind of leader. 2 Corinthians will show that they enjoyed the forceful kind. I think this is why Timothy was scorned and why they didn't appear to value Stephanas.

Vs. 21-24 This is one of Paul's stronger endings. Notice the mention of any who do not love the Lord being accursed.

So what does it mean to love the Lord? We all love Jesus. Right? People who guard the truth to the destruction of a church love Jesus. Right? I think it would be better to define love as doing what Jesus said to do: following Him in the harvest, reaching out to the lost, making disciples who make disciples. As shown in this letter, the church can be full of people who do church and use their gifts for themselves, and really don't love their Lord. Jesus Himself said that not everyone who calls Him Lord will enter the kingdom of Heaven.

Psalm 40:1-10

Another wonderful psalm. This is the first year that I've felt the connection between reading Job and reading these psalms.

Vs. 1-5 This was not only David's experience, but it became Job's experience too. Waiting on the Lord is worth it and out of it you get a new song and a heart of praise.

To me the verses that stand out are verses 9-10….I have told, I have not restrained my lips, I have not hidden, I have spoken, I have not concealed. In the harvest, when in doubt as to what to say, just tell people what the Lord is doing in you.

Since we don't know what these psalms sounded like put to music, we really don't know which were kind of bouncy and happy and which sounded sad. This song by NEWSONG, about this psalm, is bouncy and happy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZQ2R2FEmHM

Proverbs 22:1

Maybe this is the same as saying that being approved by God is the best thing on this planet.

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this link Every Day in the Word. If that doesn't work, go to http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/devotions/ and click on “Every Day in the Word.” 

I'm writing these comments to and for those who are following a One Year Bible and interested in growing deeper as a disciple, following Jesus in the harvest. My hope is to see the growth of a discipleship culture in the church. Groups of 3-4 disciples, meeting weekly, encouraging each other to follow Christ and work to reach out and make disciples who make disciples. The Bible itself is the most universal manual we have and key to our growth and service in Christ. Nothing keeps us more focused on why we are here or what we are to be doing. My comments are only meant to provide some explanation of the events or to show the flow of God's plan of redemption. My comments are in no way exhaustive, but are designed to keep us focused on Christ and our role in His harvest. My hope is that the people in these groups will grow in Christ and be willing, after a year, to find 3 others to meet with and encourage in their growth as disciples, disciples making disciples in the harvest.

If you would like a more descriptive commentary that is still readable and concise, I'd recommend the Bible Knowledge Commentary. It's keyed to the NIV, so the result is, the commentators are constantly telling you what the Greek or Hebrew is. That never hurts.

I am not endorsing any particular One Year Bible; in fact, I read something you don't, die revidierte Lutherbibel 1984.

Anyone reading along with us is welcome to do so and is encouraged to take their own notes and make their own observations. If the comments made do not agree with your particular tradition or understanding, that's OK. Nothing I've written is meant to criticize any point of view, but only to express the truth of what God has written to us, as I understand it.

August 24, Reading Notes

Job 12-15

There are tons of things you can see in these chapters: individual truths, Job's rebuttal of his friends, Job's pain. It's all here. I'll highlight a few things that stand out to me.

Job 12

Vs. 4-5 These verses show that the depth of Job's suffering just keeps on going, deeper and deeper, everyday.

V. 9 Job couldn't be fooled. He knew that ultimately God had allowed this.

Vs. 13-25 Notice that after the affirmation of verse 13, Job lists what God does. Underline or circle all the "He's" you find.

When I read all of what God does, what He gives and takes, I thought of "Blessed Be Your Name," by Matt Redman. I'll post that video at the end of today's notes on Job, but it is a video with a message.

Job 13

Vs. 4-11 This seems to be Job warning his friends that God won't be happy with them.

V. 24 Job's relationship to God made sense up to this point. The silence isn't something Job understands.

Job 14

V. 13 This looks like Job understood something about death and resurrection. Most places in this chapter Job is speaking of dying, as being removed from life on the earth. Here it seems he knows where you wait after you die and that eventually you will be raised (remembered) by God.

Job 15

The bell rings. This begins round two. Eliphaz enters the ring.

Vs. 2-13 Notice that these comforters have now completely lost their cool.

Vs. 14-16 These are the words of Satan from Eliphaz's vision in chapter four.

In our reading today, Job spoke about God's wisdom and power and then applied this rather darkly to God raising up and putting down, etc…. This is what had happened to Job himself in losing everything. Job couldn't yet see that God's actions are motivated by more than punishment for sin and blessing for obedience. While God's works are always done in justice and wisdom and love, it doesn't mean that we'll understand what He does or understand what He allows to happen to us. Because of Jesus, we understand God's love and wisdom. In fact, read Isaiah 53 and you'll see how some of what happened to Jesus, sounds like Job. Through God's Word and through Jesus, the love of God incarnate, we know Him and we know we can praise Him in circumstances we don't understand. He is enough and we can bless His name.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUtFV127i-s&feature=related

1 Corinthians 15:29-58

Vs. 29-34 Paul / the Spirit uses a couple of "common sense" arguments, and then Paul really rebukes the Corinthians. The Resurrection is a "red letter" doctrine and not something to be ignorant about. If you read this out loud you can feel Paul in here.

V. 29 This is an argument from general human consciousness. Almost everyone, even an unbeliever, thinks there is an "after life." Pagans even had rites for the dead, believing they were alive in another world. This would also be like saying that the demonic exists as evidenced in the unbelieving public's interest in the occult and horror movies. They may be unbelieving, but they sense that these forces exist.

Ironically, some people in this church didn't get what unbelievers knew to be true. The dead are raised.

Vs. 30-32 The resurrection makes the gospel absolute. The resurrection not only means life for those who know Christ, it means judgment and that every person must bow to Christ. It makes Jesus the only Savior and the only saving message on the planet. This is what put Paul in danger. If there was no resurrection, Christianity was only teaching, not an irresistible global reality. When Paul spoke of the resurrection and all that is inherent in the resurrection, it made his message one that called for a decision, not simply benign assent.

V. 32 is actually a quote from Isaiah 22:13. Maybe that's where the Epicureans got it. It means the same thing in both cases. If there is no resurrection and life with God, there is no judgment, there is no basis for morality, there is no necessity, there is no point.

Vs. 33-34 This is a very stinging rebuke to this super church with all the gifts. They had people among them who were either unsaved or incredibly spiritually immature.

Vs. 35-41 So much for "there's no stupid question."

Vs. 42-50 This is not only great teaching on the resurrection, it is our hope.

Vs. 51-57 More great Scripture.

V. 51 belongs in every church nursery.

Basically this is saying that the only exception to the process of death and resurrection will be those who are present when Christ returns before the Tribulation to take the church. In that taking of the church, there will be an instant translation of the body from physical to spiritual. This also means that at the rapture, all who have died in Christ, from the death of Jesus until that time, will be raised.

V. 57 Our victory is in Christ. The powers of death (gates of Hades) cannot defeat us.

V. 58 So then, we should be willing to deny ourselves, take up our cross daily and follow Christ in the harvest, reaching the lost and making disciples who make disciples who make disciples.

Psalm 39

What a great psalm.

Vs. 1-3 This looks like a very weary David struggling to wait on the Lord.

Vs. 4-6 Just like Moses in Psalm 90, "teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom." Understanding our place in life, on this earth, in this time should make us focused in following Christ in the harvest.

Vs. 7-11 Our hope is in Christ.

Vs. 12-13 A cry for restoration.

I wonder if David's song would have sounded like this? I wonder how many hundreds of times I've listened to this song? If there had been mp3 players back then, it might have been in the thousands.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGV1RMuFTG0

Proverbs 21:30-31

Amen.

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this link Every Day in the Word. If that doesn't work, go to http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/devotions/ and click on “Every Day in the Word.” 

I'm writing these comments to and for those who are following a One Year Bible and interested in growing deeper as a disciple, following Jesus in the harvest. My hope is to see the growth of a discipleship culture in the church. Groups of 3-4 disciples, meeting weekly, encouraging each other to follow Christ and work to reach out and make disciples who make disciples. The Bible itself is the most universal manual we have and key to our growth and service in Christ. Nothing keeps us more focused on why we are here or what we are to be doing. My comments are only meant to provide some explanation of the events or to show the flow of God's plan of redemption. My comments are in no way exhaustive, but are designed to keep us focused on Christ and our role in His harvest. My hope is that the people in these groups will grow in Christ and be willing, after a year, to find 3 others to meet with and encourage in their growth as disciples, disciples making disciples in the harvest.

If you would like a more descriptive commentary that is still readable and concise, I'd recommend the Bible Knowledge Commentary. It's keyed to the NIV, so the result is, the commentators are constantly telling you what the Greek or Hebrew is. That never hurts.

I am not endorsing any particular One Year Bible; in fact, I read something you don't, die revidierte Lutherbibel 1984.

Anyone reading along with us is welcome to do so and is encouraged to take their own notes and make their own observations. If the comments made do not agree with your particular tradition or understanding, that's OK. Nothing I've written is meant to criticize any point of view, but only to express the truth of what God has written to us, as I understand it.