November 1, 2012 Reading

November 1, 2012 Reading

Today's Reading in the ESV One-Year Bible

Ezekiel 1-3:15

I remember hearing Howard Hendricks talk about his early days reading the Bible. Hendricks taught Bible Study Methods at DTS and, I think, is without a rival in teaching that course. Anyway, I expected him to say that he took to the Bible like a duck to water. He did, too, a dead duck. He started in Ezekiel and his Bible became a paper weight for a long time thereafter. After charging through Isaiah and Jeremiah, I hate to tell you that you'll probably need to gird up the loins of your mind to get through Ezekiel. Daniel will be fun to look forward to, and thankfully there is lighter fare in Hebrews and the other epistles. Thankfully you're reading a One-Year Bible. If you are in a group of others who are also reading along, that makes it that much easier.

If you're getting tired, you are understanding why many people don't read through the Bible. Yet, you've got to get to this place of difficulty and get to the end so that you can inspire others to finish. Hendricks used to tell us that reading the Bible was like mining. Anyone can find the occasional nugget lying on the surface. But to find the richest ore, and the true heart of God (and that's the point, isn't it) you have to go deep. Digging is work, but that's when the treasures are found. The more you read, the easier it gets and the rewards drive you on. We are in pursuit of a deeper understanding and love for God. In order to follow the Word made flesh, you have to know His Word.

So, before we begin, I'll give you a little background on Ezekiel and a few suggestions to make the journey more active for you.

If you're asking me, Daniel and Ezekiel have similar purposes. In Daniel you see God preparing the nations for the return of Israel to its land and for the coming kingdom. In Ezekiel you see God preparing the people for their return to their land and preparing Israel for the coming kingdom. Ezekiel will also fill in some of the detail on the people we have just read about in Jeremiah. The first part of Ezekiel will show why God had to judge the people who remained in Jerusalem. The people living with Ezekiel in Babylon are the remnant. Those who were left in Jerusalem with Jeremiah were to be judged. Everyone was rooting for the folks back in the city, but the Lord would show the exiles that a corrupt culture must be judged. They, too, needed to change their hearts if they expected to go back to the land.

One of the important phrases to look for and underline in Ezekiel is, "Then they will know that I am the Lord." That is a very powerful statement. There are other phrases and statements. If toward the end of Ezekiel you notice something and think, "I wonder if I've missed this earlier in the book," just make a note to yourself at the beginning of Ezekiel and look for it next year. It keeps you alert. In fact, when you find "they will know," not only underline it; but number it and see how many you find.

The counting of years in Ezekiel began when Ezekiel, along with 12,000 others and King Jehoiakim, was taken into exile. Ezekiel began his ministry when he was 30, in what was probably the 15th year of exile, which began when Daniel was taken. That would make Daniel and Ezekiel, probably, the same age. Thirty was the age a priest began his ministry. The last we hear from Ezekiel, he is 52 years old. The life of a prophet, as we've seen with Jeremiah, was not really glorious. Ezekiel saw amazing things, but he paid an awesome price for it. As protection from the people and as a sign to them, Ezekiel was unable to speak for several years. Shortly before Jerusalem was destroyed, God told him that his wife would die and he was forbidden to mourn her death. Finally, when a messenger came from Judah and told them that the city had been destroyed, God allowed him to speak freely. In between, Ezekiel was commanded to act out many zany things in public, which I'm sure made him face tremendous ridicule. And of course, as he saw what God thought of the people, it also brought sorrow and weight to Ezekiel's heart as he ministered to Israel. On the other hand, Ezekiel was used to begin the process of healing the hearts of these very corrupt people. And to strengthen Ezekiel and give him joy and hope, he saw things of God that were rivaled only by the visions the Apostle John saw in Revelation.

Today we'll see Ezekiel's commissioning as a prophet.

Ezekiel 1

Vs. 1-3 We've already mentioned some of this. Ezekiel was 30, the normal age to begin serving as a priest. Jesus also began his ministry at 30. Chebar was located just above the city of Babylon where the Euphrates and Tigris are close together. Nebuchadnezzar used the Jews to widen a river to create the "Grand Canal." I don't know if they had gondola rides like in Venice, but if they did I'll bet they were just as expensive.

Vs. 4-28 We have had vague descriptions of the glory of the Lord earlier in the Bible. We saw the glory of the Lord appear to protect Israel as they left Egypt as a pillar of fire and a pillar of cloud. We saw the glory of the Lord fill the tabernacle and fill Solomon's temple. Isaiah saw the glory of the Lord in the temple as he was commissioned for service as a prophet. There, it was fire and smoke. Here, Ezekiel (and all of us) for the first time ever see the detail of God's royal presence: His throne and the angels that go with Him.

Vs. 4-14 These “living creatures” are referred to as cherubim. Since they are “different” from anything we have ever seen in Scripture, it shouldn’t be surprising that other angels called Cherubim in other places in the Bible look a little different. We’ll have to ask God to clarify the differences once we get to heaven. It seems to me that the look of these creatures is symbolic in some sense, since all of it relates to creatures of earth. I'm content to let others try to figure out why one side of their head looks like an ox and another like a lion or an eagle.

Vs. 15-21 These are the wheels and the direction of the Spirit. Again, this is something God wants Ezekiel to see and be awed by. God doesn't need this elaborate moving throne to move.

Vs. 22-25 This expanse would be like the ceiling of a throne room, but this one is the supernatural version.

Vs. 26-28 And now we see Him who sits on the throne. Since God the Father is unable to be seen, this is probably the Son of God taking human appearance as He has before in the OT.

Notice that verses 22 and 26 lead up to seeing God on His throne. Still, all of this is vague. Ezekiel sees a "likeness." It is still true that no one has seen God.

V. 28 And to think, all of this display was simply to get Ezekiel's attention. When Ezekiel bowed, he heard the voice. Just like when God presented Himself to Elijah, the real point of all the other stuff was to get Elijah tuned to hear the voice of the Lord. (1 Kings 19:12)

Ezekiel 2

Vs. 1-7 This is God commissioning Ezekiel to go to the rebels of the house of Israel. That is basically everyone who is in exile with him. One of the things to note here is the word "rebellious." In my German Bible it says they are the "house of contradiction." That adds an interesting twist to the thought of their rebellion, as if it is sort of passive-aggressive. Sin makes all of us living contradictions. We think it's cute. God calls it rebellion. Thank the Lord for grace.

Vs. 8-10 This is where Ezekiel accepts God's commission to him. He takes the Word and he fully consumes it. That's what you're in the process of doing now, reading your One-Year Bible. It is no accident that God has used people, regardless of nation or education, who have consumed the Word.

Ezekiel 3:1-15

Vs. 1-3 This looks to have been a very realistic vision, so I wonder what it was like eating that scroll. Was it like a wrap? It is interesting that here, the scroll was sweet with no after effects. In Revelation 10:10, it had a bitter after effect.

Vs. 4-11 As with every commission, there is the command to go. How many times do you find "go" in this section? God mentions here that He would give Ezekiel a supernatural hardness and determination. God would also protect Ezekiel other ways and make him a very notable, living sign among his people.

Vs. 12-15 I don't know what Ezekiel was like before this event and commissioning, but now, seeing the people's sin and need as God does, he is bitter and upset and overwhelmed.

Now the fun begins.

We all hate to be embarrassed when we go out on the limb for God in the harvest, but as we'll see in Ezekiel, when God puts us in one of those situations, it is not to shame us. It is to make something memorable for someone else. Their response to that memorable moment can help them or be a source of judgment. It reveals the heart. We think we always have to be clear and smooth in the harvest, and we should aim for those things as we present the gospel and work with others. Yet, sometimes God prefers foggy, stilted, embarrassing and unforgettable.

Hebrews 3

One tension in Hebrews is understanding the warnings. What will really be lost if the people slip back into adherence to the law? Will they lose their salvation, or will they lose the effect of the grace of God in them in a dying world? This question has kept people very busy. My take on things is that you cannot lose your salvation, since it is a spiritual birth and a new creation. These can't be undone. But Jesus Himself warned His disciples several times that we are meant to be salt; but if the salt loses its saltiness, it is only good to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. And you remember too, in 2 Timothy 2:20, there are vessels for ignoble use. Those vessels are still in the house, but all the master can use them for is degrading kinds of things. I think the warnings in Hebrews are about losing saltiness, becoming unusable and trading away the power of grace for the false peace that comes from compromise and hiding.

V. 1 Notice that the writer is not assuming he is speaking to a mixed crowd. Here they are holy brothers; and in verse 12, they are still brothers. Notice they are to look at Jesus, who has been said to be God, the Son, the Savior, and a high priest who knew suffering and can intercede for us.

Vs. 2-6 As much as they revered Moses, Jesus is so much greater.

V. 6 Notice that holding fast our confidence and our boasting in our hope, is the measure of being God's house. If that confidence and boasting is lost, it sounds like the losing of saltiness. It isn't saying a loss of salvation, but there is a sense of no longer being that city on a hill giving light to the lost.

Vs. 7-11 To prove this, the writer quotes Psalm 95.

V. 11 Although that generation never entered Canaan, this is not saying that everyone remained unsaved and never came to God. Some people may have repented, yet because of their rebellion, they just never made it into the land. Even Moses and Aaron didn't make it into the land and they were definitely saved.

In 1 Cor. 9:19ff, Paul talks about his sacrifice so that he could share in the blessings of the gospel. He was already saved. It gives me the idea that one can be saved and have an eternal home in heaven, but as a result of choices made on earth, never experience the power of grace and the blessings of the gospel in this life. The continued following of Christ in the harvest is vital for growth and experiencing God's blessings. We lose a lot when we are neither salt nor light for Christ.

Vs. 12-14 The mention of "today" reminds me of John 9, where Jesus heals the man born blind and tells His disciples, "we must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is still day." So what if a Christian rebels and decides it's not worth the trouble? You never see the grace you would have seen.

V. 14 Share is the same as in 3:1 and there is actually a "the" before Christ. I think this is the same thought that began chapter 3, sharing in a heavenly calling. You can still be saved and deny the calling or commission of the church, because you'd rather do something else or you don't like discomfort. To walk with Christ is to be with Him in the harvest. To hide is to deny Jesus.

Vs. 15-19 But if a person does deny and does not participate in this calling; that is, this companionship with Christ as a witness to humanity, it is really the "deceitfulness of sin" and rebellion. To hide is to deny Jesus.

In Philippians, Paul mentions that we are called to share the sufferings of Christ. Sharing or being a companion to Christ in suffering was Paul's own goal. Following Christ in the harvest means sharing what He endured for us, for His sake and for others. 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. (Philippians 1:29)

We serve in His house as servants in the harvest, but only if we want to. We can have a great life on earth and miss all that, but also miss His rewards and fellowship and rest/peace. He leaves us the choice of picking up the cross daily. Following is up to us. But some of us would rather work in the harvest following Him, and as a result, know Him even deeper.

Psalm 95, Sons of Korah.

Psalm 104:1-23

Vs. 1-4 This is an interesting way to begin this majestic psalm. Look at verse 2 and then look over at Ezekiel 1:22-28. Also, doesn’t verse 4 sound like Hebrews 1:7? God is majestic beyond all of our imagination.

Vs. 5-9 All creation and its forces in nature obey the Lord.

Vs. 10-13 And through nature, God Himself takes care of the world of animals.

Vs. 14-15 And God meets all of the needs of man, just like Jesus said He could in the Sermon on the Mount.

Vs. 16-18 The trees of Lebanon and the mountains had a grandeur beyond what man could grasp, and in them God made animals to dwell.

Vs. 19-23 And just like it says in Genesis 1:14, He made the planets and heavenly bodies for us to set times and seasons. It is interesting that in Genesis 1, God had already covered the earth with vegetation before He made the sun, moon and stars. The heavenly bodies were needed before the creation of the animals, because they are oriented to the sun, moon and stars, just like we are for our orientation to times and seasons.

God points to His own majesty and love in creation. It is ironic. The very thing that should make people question and conclude that there is a God is all around them, yet in an ironic sense, invisible to them.

Psalm 104

Proverbs 26:24-26

These proverbs play off the proverb from yesterday. You can glaze something over, disguise and hide a sinful heart and evil motives, but God will make sure it is eventually exposed.

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this link http://www.esvbible.org/devotions/every-day-in-the-word/. If that doesn't work, go to http://www.esvbible.org/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. Send comments or feedback to dgkachikis@gmail.com.

October 31, 2012 Reading Notes

October 31, 2012 Reading Notes

Today's Reading in the ESV One-Year Bible

Lamentations 4-5

Alas, it is our last day in Lamentations. Rejoice!

Lamentations 4

Vs. 1-10 Jeremiah describes the change in people and the city because of the devastation of judgment. What is interesting, especially in terms of the treatment of the children, is that the people had already changed. The people had either been offering their kids in sacrifice or were accepting of the practice. The destruction and desperation of judgment just revealed the heart beneath the civilized veneer.

Vs. 11-20 In this section we see that the punishment of the people and the success of the enemy was under the Lord's direction.

V. 13 Notice that the prophets and priests, who should have led the people, shed the blood of the righteous in the city, in its gates. This means that the people they killed were the people who stood against their sin. Although this was done by the leaders, the people approved.

V. 14 Jesus said it. When the blind lead the blind, both fall into a pit.

V. 17 This is the watching of those who had not loved or followed God. Actually, they were looking first to Egypt to help them. When Egypt didn't work, God was the backup plan. People get religious when there is a threat and they have no more resources, but they have no understanding of God either. To suddenly get religious doesn't fool God. They were so used to worshipping Baal and every other god they thought they could hold on to, but thought they could reach out to Yahweh at the same time.

V. 20 This is referring to King Zedekiah. You don't put your hope in men, particularly ungodly ones.

Vs. 21-22 We mentioned this before and will see it again. Edom was judged for their excessive joy in the destruction of Zion and were also taken into captivity. Israel returned and was restored. Edom never again became an established nation.

Lamentations 5

This chapter is different from the others, although it doesn't appear so in the ESV. It is written, not as a "poem," but as a prayer.

Vs. 1-18 This is an appeal to God to look and have compassion. Notice that Jeremiah says everything in the first person plural. He is praying on behalf of God's people.

Vs. 11-12 Although Babylon was guided to punish Judah, and although Nebuchadnezzar, I believe, understood that God wanted him to do this, the violence was excessive. God never is happy about this. Another example of excessive violence by a God-ordained man was Jehu. (2Ch. 22:8, Hos. 1:4) The Babylonians overstepped their bounds also by taking young children by the hand and swinging and smashing them against buildings and rocks. In judgment, God said to Babylon in Psalm 137:9, Blessed shall he be who takes your little ones and dashes them against the rock!

Vs. 19-20 Another appeal to God.

Vs. 21-22 The final appeal. At this point, it looked like the nation was lost forever and the death and destruction would have intensified that feeling. But there were the promises to Adam and Eve, and to Abraham and to David. There were the promises of salvation and national restoration in the book of Isaiah and in the Psalms. Notice that this plea for restoration was not to happiness or prosperity, but to God Himself. This will be fulfilled in the coming of their Messiah.

Hebrews 2

In reading this section, notice that it still sounds sermonic. Also, notice how the author is using the OT. He had a great understanding of the OT and how it spoke about Jesus.

V. 1 This is a warning, one of about five in the entire book. The author is summarizing everything he has just said about Jesus and God speaking through Him. The message is that if you don't regard the importance of the message and the Messenger, you will drift away. In a way, if you wanted to get picky, it is saying that the message and the Messenger are so important, that if you focus your faith and practice on anything else as the primary focus and essential object of faith, you are in danger of drifting away. I know we tend to look at people who are in obvious error and agree that they have gotten lost. However, I wonder if focusing on the Christian culture, its music and meetings, isn't a log in our eye. I just read a report from people visiting the underground church in China. Those disciples are doing far more with far less in their harvest fields than we in the West are doing in ours. It seems that the message and the Messenger are their only focus and it burns in their hearts. To be a believer in China means you are a disciple. In the West, being a "believer" can mean a lot of things and exclude any need to follow Christ in the harvest. People can get lost in their Christian culture and drift away.

Vs. 2-4 Do you get the argument here? If those who were following the law took the message seriously that had been delivered by angels, they had better take seriously this message delivered by the Son. Point: don't go back into the law.

Vs. 5-9 Some Jews believed that at the end of the age, the world would be subjected to the good spiritual armies, Michael and his merry angels. The author shoots this idea to pieces. Everything will be subjected to Jesus. While Jesus is fully God, He is also fully man, bone of our bone, the Son of Man. He is the only human capable of righteously ruling the earth and judging both mankind and the angels who were to have served mankind.

V. 9 The full subjection will come yet. Wait for it. For Jesus came first to be a sacrifice for sin.

It could be that some were using the argument that now since Jesus came, things were no better than they were before in world affairs. Surely God would have changed the political world. Right? The Jews never understood that He needed to die for sin first. Even Jesus' disciples missed that. And he said to them, “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?” (Luke 24:25-26 )

Vs. 10-18 In order for Jesus to "taste death" for everyone, He had to be immersed into the entire human experience. Jesus had to be subject to the same lost world and gravity and temptation as everyone else.

V. 16 Notice that argument about angels again. The mention of Abraham refers to the redemptive promise to Abraham and to those who are saved by faith, à la Romans 4.

V. 17 Jesus had the actual experience so that He could be a high priest to us, with full understanding of what it meant to be a human. The flip side is that no one will be able to say to Him, "How would you know what it felt like? You're God."

V. 18 I've heard people "wax elephants" on this temptation and how Jesus felt all temptations far deeper because He was perfect. I've never really understood all of that. But there is a very real point here that this audience might have understood. They were being frightened and pressured to return to Judaism. Jesus was under constant pressure to do the same. Because He healed on the Sabbath, the Jewish leaders hated Him. (John 5:16-18) He didn't live according to the tradition of the elders (Luke 11:38), so they despised and shunned Him. Jesus definitely knew what it was like to be hated and cast out because of not adhering to the traditions of men regarding the law.

As disciples, following Christ in the harvest means that we might upset the local culture too, even the Christian culture. There will always be a pressure to be quieter and more harmless, so that others can feel more comfortable and secure in their way of life.

Psalm 103

Remember David? Doesn't it seem like a long time since we've heard him crying out? But remember that David's life was not very easy. And then, he himself complicated it, destroying most of his family, and alienating many of his friends. Still, David was a great man because unlike so many of the kings after him, when he was humbled, he still loved God with all his heart. Here he is telling Israel to bless the Lord. Regardless of the challenges in our lives, following Christ in the harvest means we learn to bless the Lord in all circumstances.

Vs. 1-5 What a beautiful way to say so much with a few words. Knowing David's life and how he learned this, I wonder if he wrote this in his later years, looking back.

Vs. 6-12 I'm impressed by the mentions of God's steadfast love in combination with the mentions of God's anger and removing of sin. This must have meant a lot to David in those later years. David, his family, and friends suffered much as a result of his own sin. Yet God used David as an example of His mercy and grace.

Vs. 13-14 This isn't just poetry coming from David. It is his understanding of God's deep love and compassion.

Vs. 15-18 And here are the reflective thoughts of a godly man, pulled from the fire and restored by the grace of God.

There have been many songs, in all generations, written to verses in this psalm. This is new to me and very pretty.

Psalm 103 By Zach Jones. From the Album "Fuse".

Proverbs 26:23

You get it, right? The glaze hides what is underneath. This would be like putting whipped cream on a cow pie. In what context do you think of the word fervent? Yeah, me too.

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this link http://www.esvbible.org/devotions/every-day-in-the-word/. If that doesn't work, go to http://www.esvbible.org/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. Send comments or feedback to dgkachikis@gmail.com.

to express the truth of what God has written to us, as I understand it. Send comment or feedback to dgkachikis@gmail.com.

October 30, 2012 Reading Notes

October 30, 2012 Reading Notes

Today's Reading in the ESV One-Year Bible

This is another big day because you are beginning Hebrews.

Lamentations 2:20-3:66

Lamentations 2:20-22

Even though God had warned the people that this is what would happen if they rejected Him, and even though He did everything He could to try to help them, it was still hard for Jeremiah to watch it all take place. Remember that rejecting God isn't just a "right or wrong" thing. The further a person or culture walks away from God, the sicker the heart becomes and the more distorted behavior becomes in that sickness. They had become a sick, cancerous society.

V. 20 Notice that two sacred things were violated. The "holiness" of a mother and child and the "holiness" of the priest in the temple. When sin rules there is no holiness or safe place.

V. 21 The young and the old were like the pride of a city, a sign of prosperity and wellbeing. The young men and young women were like those who are fruitful and bring the future. All were killed. The mention of dust is interesting because you'll see that again in the psalm.

V. 22 This was a tragic, long foretold, grand event.

Lamentations 3

Vs. 1-20 This is Jeremiah's "a ministry in review." No one would envy him. When I read verse 1, I always see, "I am the man of constant sorrow." As you go through this section underline "he" and you'll find several divisions in the One-Year Bible text. Each of these divisions shows another poetic image of how Jeremiah felt. It will give you a deeper appreciation of Jeremiah's years as a prophet and this trauma of seeing all of the prophesies of judgment fulfilled before his eyes.

Man of Constant Sorrow

As we follow the Lord in the harvest, if we are close to Him and bearing fruit, we should expect to identify with some of what Jeremiah experienced and felt. Paul had a hard service. Jesus said that a disciple was not above his teacher. Jesus was not treated kindly by those he came to save. Yet, the flipside of the suffering, was the blessing. Jesus was blessed as foretold in Isaiah 53. Sharing the blessings of the gospel drove Paul on in his service. And we're about to see that Jeremiah was blessed too, because of what he learned about the Lord Himself.

Vs. 18-20 This seems to be as deep as you can go. Poor Jeremiah.

Vs. 21-24 This seems to be as high as you can go. And, you realize that Jeremiah could only say this with such reality and conviction, because God had shown him Himself through all of what Jeremiah lived through in verses 1-20. As the old song goes, "you must go through the valley, to stand upon the mountain of God."

Vs. 25-39 These seem like proverbs Jeremiah has learned in all of his long work with the Lord and with the people. Some of this is written in retrospect, thinking of how the people could have been more open to the Lord and allowed themselves to be corrected and guided by Him. The ESV does a good job of grouping the thoughts.

Vs. 25-27 This is what Jeremiah learned and what the people rejected. This is something that every disciple in the harvest has to learn, often through trial.

Vs. 28-30 Submitting to the Lord is not easy. We need to recognize that our sin has to be dealt with and we need to be humbled. Learning to live according to the new man and not the old often comes through mistakes and God's correction. I have met many believers who will never do this because of their pride and their vision of following Jesus that says everything is about them and their welfare.

Vs. 31-33 And this is the hope we learn by allowing God to humble us as we learn to follow. His love and faithfulness are proven again and again in our lives. These lessons were deeply impressed on the soul of Jeremiah.

Vs. 34-39 Verses 34-36 either express the injustice going on in Israel, or they were charges brought against the Lord for allowing His people to be punished by Babylon. But, God is true and doesn't approve of that kind of stuff. Verse 37-39 give the answer that since God is the Most High, He can't be charged with evil but He punishes evil. That punishment shouldn't be called unjust.

Vs. 40-42 Therefore Jeremiah calls the people to repent.

Vs. 43-47 Because God has done this….

Vs. 48-51 … Jeremiah will continue to weep and intercede for his people and continue to live before the Lord. When I read this I think of the life of Daniel, who lived with this same resolve and intensity before the Lord, praying for his people.

Vs. 52-66 Yet Jeremiah suffered for following God. The very nation he is crying for, at least that generation of them, made Jeremiah's life and service hard. But God was with Jeremiah and saved him and judged them. Underline you and you will see that Jeremiah agreed with God's judgment of that generation.

What helped Jeremiah survive, and what helps us in the harvest, is that our reward and nourishment is following the Lord. The Lord Himself is the reward, not people, not results, only Him. He gives us energy and hope and joy that cannot be taken away.

Mountain of God, Third Day

Hebrews 1

The letter to the Hebrews was probably written after the events in the book of Acts (62 AD) and before the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem (70 AD). No one knows what church this might have been. Though it could have been a letter that circulated to a lot of cities and churches, it seems to be addressed to a particular group in a particular place. The main issue in the book is one we've seen come up in a few of Paul's letters, that is, the temptation to bring more Jewish law into the practice of following Christ. It seems that these Jewish Christians were being pressured by the local community to slip back into the observance of the law.

The letter has a "sermonic" sense to it. Although the argument is very logical, there is a feel to what is said, as if a formal, public exposition is being made.

No one knows who wrote Hebrews. Paul would be a good guess because of the very logical writing and the very deep knowledge of the Scripture. Of all the NT writers, Paul is the only one we see with this bent. People say that some of the style and word usage is different than Paul's; but if this was a public sermon, that might account for the differences. The other best guess is Barnabas. Barnabas was a Levite and it would explain the vast knowledge of the OT. Other guesses range from Timothy to Apollos.

From beginning to end, remember that this group of converted Jews had once been very alive and willing to suffer for Christ. Now, after these years, the rising of persecution had them reeling and wondering if maybe a little "law" would really hurt, especially if it made the persecution go away.

Hebrews 1:1-14

Vs. 1-2 As you read this you sense that this is formal beginning to a sermon. And you notice that a comparison is being made. Also, it says we are in the last days.

Vs. 3-14 So, as you read this you already know that Jesus is "better" than everything else, but what do you think might be some of the underlying problems that are being addressed? If anyone thought Jesus was just an angel made by God into a god, this section speaks against that. In this section you see Jesus as fully God and fully man, born in the flesh, but eternal. Also, if Jesus was just to be regarded as a good teacher or one of many prophets, that would also be totally wrong.

Vs. 3-4 This is the summary of Jesus in His divinity, His position as the human "Son of Man." That Jesus sat down and took that place was necessary to fulfill prophecy and to show that a son of Adam could assume lawful, sinless authority over the world of men.

Vs. 5-6 Jesus is the Son who is worshipped. As Jesus said in His temptation and confrontation with Satan, only God can be worshipped. God said so.

Vs. 7-9 Notice the contrast. Angels are ministers of God, but in verse 8 God calls Jesus, God.

Vs. 10-12 And this Son is eternal. Hold on to these verses because you'll see them again very soon.

Vs. 13-14 Jesus sat down at the right hand of God. That is amazing. The angels were created to serve those who would inherit eternal life. Think of this too in terms of Satan overstepping his authority. I believe that he was supposed to serve man, but through rebellion found a way to have authority over mankind when Adam and Eve sinned.

Every day as I read the gospels, I'm always humbled by the very real challenge everyone had looking at that "unbeautiful" and unattractive Jewish man, that tree root visible in the dry ground. They watched Him work a wonder and heard Him say God was His Father. How could that little Jewish guy be the one of whom it is said, "all things were made through Him and without Him was nothing made that was made?" (John 1:3) Only by the grace and Spirit of God can we be privileged to understand this, and know and serve Him in the harvest.

Indescribable, Chris Tomlin

Psalm 102

Vs. 1-11 It looks to me like Jeremiah wrote a psalm. No, actually it looks like this was written after the people returned to Jerusalem after the exile. They were low and despised then too. It will take getting to verse 12 to see that this comes from the returned exiles.

Vs. 12-17 Notice the focus on rebuilding Zion. Look at verse 14 and remember the dust in Lamentations 2:21. There is a future feel to these verses because someday all nations will honor the Lord in Zion.

Vs. 18-22 This is being written for the next generation so they will praise God. Sounds like they are interested in disciple making too. This section also ends with a view to the end of time when the King rules.

Vs. 23-28 This is their present despair and their future hope. What if I told you I can prove from this section that that hope is in the redemptive plan of God and in the work of Jesus? How? Look at verses 25-27. Now look at Hebrews 1:10-12. Who are those verses in Hebrews talking about? Kind of interesting, huh?

Proverbs 26:21-22

The destruction spoken of in these verses is incredible. The image of fire is obvious, but the morsel that goes down deep is ten times worse. When a lie becomes imbedded in a heart or a person or of a culture it may never come out.

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this link http://www.esvbible.org/devotions/every-day-in-the-word/. If that doesn't work, go to http://www.esvbible.org/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. Send comments or feedback to dgkachikis@gmail.com.

October 29, 2012 Reading Notes

October 29, 2012 Reading Notes

Today's Reading in the ESV One-Year Bible

Lamentations 1-2:19

Happy days are here again….not. This is Jeremiah's lament over Jerusalem after it was destroyed. He refers to what he saw before and during the siege by the Babylonians. I'm not sure how "artsy" Jeremiah and the Spirit wanted to be, but of the five chapters, chapter 3, right in the middle, is a very personal pouring out of Jeremiah's heart. Surprisingly (or not), out of the crying out of chapter 3, we have gotten many good songs.

Lamentations 1

Vs. 1-10 Verse 1 sets the tone for this chapter and this section. It describes the humbling of this once beautiful princess, Jerusalem. This part of the lament is for the city. Notice the references to Zion and Jerusalem, and notice that the city is referred to with feminine pronouns. Just for fun, underline, circle or highlight them.

Vs. 11-22 Jeremiah and the Spirit personalize the crying out of Jerusalem in the first person. The first part of verse 11 explains the situation and transitions between the third person and the first person. Notice the repetition of I, my, and me.

Lamentations 2:1-19

Vs. 1-10 Now notice all of what God did. It wasn't the Babylonians; it was God. If you circle "He" and "His," you might run out of ink; but it is a good exercise.

Verse 6 is ironic in that, because of this judgment, God made Zion forget the festivals and Sabbath, meaning that they couldn't hold them. In reality, they had forgotten these things themselves, and that neglect was part of the reason for their judgment and the downward spiral of their culture.

V. 7 The people never expected God to do this, but He Himself promised this if their hearts were rebellious and their worship was useless.

Just an aside, unless the Ark of the Covenant had already been destroyed or hidden, it was probably lost here. It is funny that other items in the temple are mentioned as being taken in Jeremiah 52, but an important item like the ark is not mentioned. Actually, none of the furniture in the Holy Place is mentioned either. It is just assumed that it was taken to Babylon.

V. 9 This mention of the prophets is ironic since Jeremiah was the only true prophet. The others were frauds who lied and strengthened the people's rebellion against God.

Vs. 11-19 Now Jeremiah is writing about his own heartache during this destruction. How many different things can you find in these verses that caused Jeremiah sorrow and anguish? There are at least five.

Vs. 18-19 It was easy to suggest that the people should cry out to the Lord, but the hearts of these people were very sick. Think of the people who took Jeremiah captive to Egypt. In spite of every word of Jeremiah coming true, they still thought that worshiping other gods would help. In one of Ezekiel's visions, we'll see another view of the depth of the corruption of the people's hearts. These people Jeremiah is writing about here were lost, blind and ignorant. It is doubtful that they could call on the Lord.

Like Jeremiah, our job is to faithfully follow the Lord into the harvest. As we present the Word and the love of Christ, He will draw men to Himself. We work to make disciples who make disciples. It is more than tragic to see people disregard the Lord and lose their souls, but when it comes to that, it was their choice. We work in the hope of reaching and helping those who will reach out to our Lord.

Philemon

This letter was written by Paul, in prison in Rome under house arrest, during the time he wrote Ephesians and Colossians. Philemon was, apparently, a well-to-do Christian in Colossae, who had a church in his house and who had lots of slaves. One of those slaves apparently ran off with some stuff and tried to hide out in Rome. Rome was about 1000 miles from Colossae as the bird flies, and for a slave like Onesimus, probably at least 1500 miles by foot. And then Rome was a city of thousands. What a place to hide. But wouldn't you know it, someone in Rome (maybe Tychicus or Timothy or Luke) recognized him and brought him to Paul. Talk about bad luck. Then wouldn't you know it, it got worse. Paul led him to Christ. Oh, brother. Now, although Onesimus did wrong and fled, in Christ, he had to go back and fess up. Also, although Philemon had the right to punish this slave and even have him put to death, Onesimus was now a brother in Christ. And if that wasn't complicated enough, when Philemon looked at Onesimus, he noticed that there was a note pinned to his shirt from Paul.

Vs. 1-3 Philemon was a worker. It is thought that there was a church in his house. It could be that Apphia was his wife and Archippus was his son. Archippus is also mentioned in Colossians 4:17 and may have been a pastor.

Vs. 4-7 It is interesting that Paul was not only moved that Philemon was growing in Christ as a disciple, but it looks like he was a good friend and had been a source of comfort and encouragement for Paul personally.

V. 6 Notice that Paul says that by sharing his faith, Philemon was growing into the fullness of knowing Christ. I really think this is how it is meant to be. If we are not involved in the harvest, we can't grow in really knowing the Savior.

V. 7 Philemon had a ministry to workers in the harvest, strengthening and helping them. His actions were from his evident love for Christ and His people.

Vs. 8-14 Introducing another of Christ's people to love: Onesimus. From verse 13 it seems that Paul would have been happy to have kept Onesimus, but there had to be due process of forgiveness and asking permission. The very fact that Paul is being so diplomatic shows there might have been something going on behind the scenes. It may be that Onesimus stole something when he left or was a real problem to everyone and deserved severe punishment. Paul seems to be going out of his way to defuse a situation that might have gotten the better of Philemon.

Vs. 15-16 Paul adds a little eternal perspective and some sovereignty of God into the equation.

Vs. 17-20 I don't think Paul is being manipulative here, but rather fatherly. It seems that Paul also led Philemon to Christ. It is important for parents to see their children do what is right. Sadly, stuff doesn't always go right in the home or in the church. Paul is guiding him, and again, it seems that Paul was being persuasive because he felt like he needed to be.

Vs. 21-22 This sounds a little like Philippians, where Paul had a feeling he would be released soon.

You just finished another book of the Bible!

It is kind of comical to think of Onesimus trying to escape from Philemon and slavery, and hiding in the super city of Rome. He had the "bad luck" of running into the hands of God. It is hard to escape from the long arm of the Lord.

The Long Arm of the Lord, Wayne Watson

Psalm 101

If I were a guessing man, I'd say this was written after David became king of the entire nation and just after he brought the Ark of the Covenant into the city of David. David's confidence and purity of heart seem to be "pre-Bathsheba." David seems to be saying that because of his confidence in God's steadfast love, he can be firm with those who are sinful and perverse. It might get him in trouble to be just, but his hope was in God. He knows that the steadfast love of the Lord will pull him through all the anger of men associated with this stand he is taking.

Vs.1 What an interesting combination - steadfast love and justice. David learned both of these as he ran from Saul and waited on the Lord for the Lord's justice and vindication. In spite of all the hatred and warfare aimed at David, God fulfilled the promise of bringing David to the throne.

V. 2 This is the next part of the declaration of this psalm. It is hard to know if David is saying you to God or to the blameless way. David knew it was important to meditate on God and to keep himself pure before God. David wanted this to be true of those in his house.

Vs. 3-5 David was resolved to keep the dishonest and evil away from him.

V. 6 In contrast to the evil and faithless, David would protect the faithful in the land.

Vs. 7-8 We don't hear of David judging Israel, other than from his throne when people were brought before him. He never led wars against the wicked in Israel. During the time of the judges and the time of King Saul, lawlessness was allowed to grow. These wicked people were lawless and robbing and harming others. David would bring justice and order to the land. This need for justice is how these verses should be understood. Notice that David's desire was also to keep evil out of the city of the Lord.

Reading David's desires here, but knowing David's life, brings sad thoughts. Knowing what happened in the book of Jeremiah brings sad thoughts too. For us as disciples, knowing all of this should humble us and make us grow close to the Lord as we work in the harvest.

Proverbs 26:20

Think of this proverb in terms of what you just read in Psalm 101. Interesting connections.

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this link http://www.esvbible.org/devotions/every-day-in-the-word/. If that doesn't work, go to http://www.esvbible.org/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. Send comments or feedback to dgkachikis@gmail.com.

October 28, 2012 Reading Notes

October 28, 2012 Reading Notes

Today's Reading in the ESV One-Year Bible

This is a red letter day. You'll be finishing two books, Jeremiah and Titus. I don't mean to get you fat, but I think it would be an appropriate time for a treat of some sort.

Jeremiah 51:54-52:34

Wow, the end of the book of Jeremiah! You did it!

Jeremiah 51:54-64

Vs. 54-58 This is the end of the pronouncement of judgment on Babylon. Remember, most of this is yet to come.

V. 57 The night Babylon was taken, that brilliant and serious military strategist and king, Belshazzar, knowing his city was surrounded, decided to get everyone stinking drunk and celebrate to the gods. It was a desperate religious act, trying to find a god who would respond to their desperate need. The Persians could have taken the city with two boy scouts and a blind German Shepherd. To be fair to Belshazzar, he did get a response from "the other side." At one point King Belshazzar brought out the drinking vessels taken from the temple in Jerusalem and fed wine to his wives while praising the gods of gold and silver. Yahweh took exception to that and publicly wrote a message to him in the plaster of the wall. Belshazzar died that night. Trivia question: Who was in charge of the empire of Babylon (the last Babylonian ruler) the night the city and empire fell? A Jewish exile named Daniel. Keep this in mind.

Vs. 59-64 So Zedekiah and Seraiah both went to Babylon in the fourth year of Zedekiah's reign. It could be that this is the event of Daniel chapter 3. This would have been the 12th year of Nebuchadnezzar and that fits nicely into the time frame. If so, Zedekiah was on hand to see three Jewish men risk their lives to follow God, and he would have seen Nebuchadnezzar worship the God that Zedekiah was in rebellion to.

Just for trivia, if you do a word search on those words describing who Seraiah was related to, "the son of Neriah, the son of Mahseiah," you find that Seraiah was the brother of Baruch, Jeremiah's assistant.

Seraiah read the prophecy against Babylon and threw it in the Euphrates. Five years later Zedekiah rebelled against Nebuchadnezzar. Seraiah was killed by Neb, and Zedekiah was severely punished by him.

Interestingly, this is the end of the prophecies of Jeremiah. Yet, we'll read more from Jeremiah in Lamentations. What follows now is all history.

Jeremiah 52

Tradition says that Jeremiah wrote 2 Kings. This might have been added here by Jeremiah as an historical summary of the final events.

Vs. 1-3 Zedekiah was a spineless man, ruled by those around him and by fear. His own lack of faith destroyed him. He rebelled against Babylon because of his officials who wanted to join an alliance with Egypt and the other surrounding neighbors to oppose Babylon.

Vs. 4-11 The reason the Babylonians could breach the city was because the famine was so severe, that no one could stand anymore to defend the walls. We have read this about the flight and punishment of Zedekiah.

Vs. 12-16 This is the end of Israel, beginning with the destruction of the temple, going to the destruction of the city and finally the taking away of the people. Thankfully God had already been working for several years to preserve His people in Babylon.

V. 14 When they burned the temple, the gold on the walls flowed into the cracks in the foundation. To get the gold, the foundation blocks had to be moved. This led to the total disassembly of that building. The foundation stones were valuable and well cut and were probably hauled away to be used for other buildings. When Zerubbabel showed up years later, he had to re-cut stones for the foundation of the temple.

Vs. 17-23 This was the total humbling of Israel. These items had been their pride. God promised Hezekiah that all of these would be removed to Babylon. See 2 Kings 20:17.

Vs. 24-27 Now this is what you did when you conquered a people. You found their leaders and you put them to death. Seraiah, who we met in the last chapter in verse 59, died here. So here is a question. I mentioned that Daniel was the last ruler of the Babylonian empire the night the Medes and Persians took over. Why didn't they kill Daniel? Why did Daniel become a beloved and key ruler under Darius the Mede? We'll figure it out together when we get to Daniel. God's amazing grace and working would be the short answer.

Vs. 28-30 Although the main deportations took place at a set time, Neb was always taking people into exile. Some of them lived in the surrounding area and some people obeyed and got out of the cities. Because of the next verses dealing with Jehoiachin, I tend to think that these minor deportations are those who obeyed and willingly surrendered to Nebuchadnezzar. That would also account for the low totals here. Not many of the people were willing to obey God.

Vs. 31-34 I've seen it suggested that this is a sign that the exiles would eventually return to Jerusalem. That may be. But clearly it is a delayed fulfillment of God's promise, that if anyone left the city and surrendered to the Babylonian army, they would be taken into captivity and God would honor them. (Jeremiah 21:9) This is what Jeremiah told Zedekiah to do when Zed asked him to inquire of the Lord for him. Zedekiah didn't do it, because he didn't believe it and was afraid of his Jewish enemies. Jehoiachin, the king before Zedekiah, walked out of the gates of Jerusalem with his mother, was imprisoned, but for his obedience, was honored.

I'd like to think it was Jeremiah, 27 years after the fall of Jerusalem, who wrote these notes. I'd like to think he settled down on that acreage he bought in Anathoth, married some sweet young thing and lived in peace, writing out 2 Kings and enjoying the sunsets at night.

Jeremiah had suffered in his service for God. He was hated by most people for bringing them a message of salvation they didn't want to hear. And for all of this, he helplessly watched his people give themselves to disobedience and destruction. Yet even with this, he was much closer to God than anyone around him. When we get to Lamentations chapter 3, you see the deep faith and maturity of Jeremiah in the midst of all the suffering.

Titus 3

Wow, the end of Titus!

Vs. 1-8 This is an awesome passage of Scripture. At this time, Nero was beginning to light the fires of persecution. To me, the section has to do with people being salt and light in the harvest.

Vs. 1-2 This is keeping our hearts and attitudes in tune with Jesus and His love, so that we can work in the harvest. Getting lost in "civilian affairs" and being anxious and vocal about elections is a way to repel others needlessly from Christ.

Vs. 3-7 We always need to remember that we, too, were lost and in rebellion to God, hating and being hated. It was His complete love and mercy that saved us in spite of who we were.

V. 8 The main way to show the love of Christ is good works. Even in persecution a disciple needs to remember why he is here, and it is very hard to slander a neighbor for being a Christian when he helps your elderly parent rake leaves. There are lots of things the Spirit shows us to do in our own neighborhood, if we know our neighbors and we live in the harvest. Notice that these good works are tied into our salvation in Christ. In fact, notice that this entire section has to do with living a life as an ambassador of Christ in a dying world. The spiritual perspective and power to live like this comes from the gospel and our own salvation, through the grace of God.

Vs. 9-11 Whatever focuses the church inward, taking on a self-righteous life of its own, is brought about by warped people. And it takes away our compassion for the lost in the harvest.

V. 12 I like this guy Tychicus. Suddenly he's everywhere. He's also mentioned in Acts, Ephesians, Colossians and 2 Timothy.

V. 13 Titus was supposed to make sure that the church supported these workers and sent them out with their back-packs full.

V. 14 One more urging of the people to be involved in good works, which I think means being in the harvest following Christ.

V. 15 Isn't this an interesting sentence, Greet those who love us in the faith. That "faith" embraced the entire spiritual perspective of life in Christ in the harvest. There is a kindred spirit of those who know what it is all about and are working hard in the harvest.

Psalm 100

Wouldn't it be great to get though something indescribably hard and dangerous, something that had been filled with difficulty and sadness, and then to stand on the other side of that "something" and celebrate the goodness and salvation of God? We get glimpses of this, and it is ultimately where we are heading.

Vs.1-2 This will happen completely when Jesus takes His throne.

V. 3 These are just a few words, but the depth of what they mean is endless.

V. 4 That we can enter His gates and courts is enough cause for praise and thanksgiving.

V. 5 This is the declaration of David. God's steadfast love and his faithfulness are often found in tandem, and they are always found when we seek the Lord.

Proverbs 26:18-19

Wow, what a declaration from God. That little sin is the tip of a madly sinful and violent heart. Little sins have a way of seeming innocent, funny and acceptable. Those of us who have known people like this know that it definitely isn't funny.

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this link http://www.esvbible.org/devotions/every-day-in-the-word/. If that doesn't work, go to http://www.esvbible.org/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. Send comments or feedback to dgkachikis@gmail.com.

October 27, 2012 Reading Notes

October 27, 2012 Reading Notes

Today's Reading in the ESV One-Year Bible

Jeremiah 51:1-53

More on the judgment of Babylon. Reading all of this, the question I have is why so much space is given to Babylon. Babylon did take the last of Israel into captivity, and they did enter the temple and destroy it. These things alone would put them in a special category.

Also, God put a lot of time into His work in Babylon and says some very big, good things about Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 2. Nebuchadnezzar built one of the seven wonders of the world, and God humbled Neb and revealed Himself to Neb in ways He has never done with other Gentile rulers.

I tend to think that there might also be something about Babylon that typifies the pride and rebellion of man. The Tower of Babel was built there; Nimrod became a great man there; mankind was unified there in its rebellion, forcing God to judge mankind yet again. (As a result of that curse we have the German language.) There must be something going on beyond the words in Jeremiah. I say this because some of these words against Babylon haven't happened yet, and in Revelation there is a very significant chapter about "Babylon" as represented in a woman sitting on a beast. There is apocalyptic meaning associated with this empire.

To show you what I mean, look at these references. Revelation 14:8, 16:19, 17:5 and 18:1-21. Much of what is written about Babylon in Isaiah, Jeremiah and Ezekiel is repeated in Revelation. The fulfillment is yet to come.

As you read this section, look for structure and things to underline.

Vs. 1-5 Notice that this section mentions that in spite of God's judgment, Israel and Judah are not forsaken.

Vs. 6-10 Notice the references to leave Babylon. Verse 10 seems to be a key verse. God used Babylon to accomplish His work and purposes, and now He would vindicate Israel and restore Zion. Again, when you get to the first five chapters of Daniel, you will see a lot of God's grace being given to Babylon. To reject God's grace, as is seen in Daniel chapter 5, is a good justification for judgment. They did have a chance to change and worship God.

Vs. 11-14 So, who is it who really is bringing the ruin of Babylon? God doesn’t use His people. He uses the ambitions and pride of other nations to defeat the proud. Israel, God's redemptive people, are not used in His judgments.

Vs. 15-19 Notice that Jeremiah as a man and prophet declares God to be the true God who is bringing this judgment. Notice how God is referred to in the third person.

Vs. 20-26 Now notice that God is speaking in the first person. This judgment has not fully taken place and is probably reserved for the time of the Tribulation.

Vs. 27-33 This is the poetic description of the battle against Babylon in those future days.

Vs. 34-40 This is Israel's case against Babylon.

Vs. 41-44 This is the taking of the city. Verse 41 sounds like a verse from Revelation 14:8 and 18:2.

Vs. 45-46 In spite of this destruction, Israel is to take courage. During the Tribulation with all the destruction and all the forces at play in the world, that might not be an easy thing for Israel to do. Trust is never easy.

Vs. 47-49 It is interesting to think of this. The Babylon of Jeremiah's day would be punished for the slain of Israel. Regardless of who the Babylon of Revelation is, they will be punished because the blood of the saints was found in her. Revelation 18:24.

Vs. 50-53 Babylon's destruction is guaranteed, and verse 51 is one of the reasons for it.

This might seem like a funny place to put this song, but in reading all of this about judgment and thinking about Revelation, I think of Jesus on His throne, taking the book of judgment. He earned the right to open that book by dying for mankind. He is the only man of all mankind who is worthy to judge mankind. That generation on the earth will behold His glory in His wrath. In heaven, we will bow and worship Him as the Lamb who was slain and lives forevermore.

Revelation Song (with lyrics) KARI JOBE

Titus 2

Some of what Paul tells Titus sounds like things from 1 Timothy, just very brief and condensed.

Vs. 1-6 In 1 Tim. 5 Paul told Timothy how to address different groups. Here Paul tells Titus how these groups are supposed to behave. It is interesting that older people in the church are to be models for the younger people in terms of faith and following Christ. This holds true especially for the older women. This teaching of the younger women looks like more than what accidently happens over a cup of coffee. It is planned discipleship.

Vs. 6-7 Very brief compared to 1 Tim. 4:11-16

Vs. 8-10 This is directed to slaves.

Vs. 11-14 What a great declaration as to how our lives should reflect the truth of the gospel. These are the first verses I memorized back in 1875 as an Awana leader. (I might be 100 years off.)

Notice the "good works." In any time and in any culture, I think this is how the church reaches out, by loving our neighbors for the sake of Christ. This is much deeper than meets the eye and it is very neglected in terms of the harvest. Not only did Jesus list loving your neighbor as the second greatest commandment (Matt. 22:39), but Paul mentions it twice in the last part of Romans (13:9, 15:2).

V. 15 Apparently this thought was supposed to keep everyone focused on the mission of the church. This sounds like Paul's words to Timothy, "Let no one despise your youth."

Psalm 99

Vs. 1-5 The king is very clearly the Lord who reigns in Zion over all the people of the earth. It is hard to read the Bible on any day in the One-Year Bible without bumping into the final redemption of man with God reigning over all. I think the Lord wants us to keep that before our eyes in the harvest.

Vs. 6-7 God worked through these great men during crucial times in Israel's history to bring Israel justice and peace. But even though you had these leaders, God's presence and Lordship was still visible. He was leading.

Vs. 8-9 Notice the actions of verse 8, answering, forgiving and avenging. The Lord is the King who is exalted and holy and to be loved and honored.

This song says everything we have read about God's love and judgment. He is loving and forgiving, yet an avenger of sin and wrongdoing. In a word, He is Awesome.

Awesome God

Proverbs 26:17

Amen.

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this link http://www.esvbible.org/devotions/every-day-in-the-word/. If that doesn't work, go to http://www.esvbible.org/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. Send comments or feedback to dgkachikis@gmail.com.

October 26, 2012 Reading Notes

October 26, 2012 Reading Notes

Today's Reading in the ESV One-Year Bible

Jeremiah 49:23-50:46

Jeremiah 49:23-39

Vs. 23-27 This is God's judgment on Syria, represented by Damascus. Syria had plagued Israel and had played a role in Israel's demise.

Vs. 28-33 This is a judgment against the nomadic tribes descended from Ishmael. You often hear people say that the enemies of the Jews came from Ishmael, and they say that Israel's enemies came as the result of Abraham's relationship with Hagar. It is obvious that what Abe and Sarah decided with Hagar was a poor decision, but Israel had plenty of enemies without these guys. The people who became the Babylonians (Iraq) and the Persians (Iran) were there long before. The enmity is really a spiritual thing and goes back to the garden and God's working with Abraham, a man from what today would be Iraq.

Vs. 34-39 Elam is what was to become the Persian empire. Today it is Iran.

It is hard to say when this happened, or whether it has happened yet. It certainly didn't happen with Babylon rising in power. Nebuchadnezzar married a Persian princess and made the hanging gardens of Babylon for her. There were good relations between Babylon and Persia. Read Daniel. When Persia took over Babylon it was basically bloodless and Darius the Mede ruled in the city of Babylon as the co-ruler of the Persian empire. Persia certainly hasn't been an empire since Alexander defeated them, but Alexander didn't destroy much either. Note that God will set up His throne there. That would mean judgment. Also, in the latter days, God will restore them. That is restoration during the Millennial Kingdom. This has led people to believe that this destruction will take place during the Tribulation.

Jeremiah 50

Vs. 1-3 Generally speaking, this long declaration of judgment on Babylon hasn't been fulfilled yet, in the terms described here. This has also led people to believe that the total fulfillment of this will not happen until the Tribulation and the Millennial Kingdom. There is a lot written about Babylon in Revelation that sounds similar to some of what is said here.

Vs. 4-5 Notice that this is definitely talking about the Millennial Kingdom.

Vs. 6-7 God's judgment is on the nations for not showing compassion to Israel, even though they knew Israel belonged to Him and were being punished by Him. Actually Egypt, Babylon, and Persia hosted Israel and will receive some blessing for that in the Millennial Kingdom.

V. 8-10 This is the declaration of punishment against Babylon.

Vs. 11-16 Verse 13 hasn't fully happened yet, so many people think this is pointing to the time of the Tribulation and that the Babylon mentioned in the book of Revelation might be the real city of Babylon.

Vs. 19-20 Again, this is millennial blessing. Because of the punishment mentioned just before this promise of blessing, that punishment just would just precede the fulfilling of the promise.

Vs. 21-46 This description is much larger than what took place when Persia defeated Babylon. That was almost a friendly takeover. What is said in these verses is still looking for a future fulfillment.

A couple of thoughts:

Although God humbled Nebuchadnezzar, the kings after him did not respect God. Chapter 5 of Daniel shows a lot of disregard for God and what He had done. When Persia took over, it was through the events of Daniel 6 that Cyrus sent the Jews back to Jerusalem. God created a new respect for His name and a sense of fear regarding forcing the Jews to worship anyone but Yahweh.

It could be that in the time of the Tribulation, both Iran and Iraq play a larger role in world affairs and as a result are put down by the Antichrist. In order for the Antichrist to make a world-recognized peace treaty with Israel, certain hostile nations, especially Islamic and anti-Semitic nations, will either change their attitude or be put down. With Iran tinkering around with making a nuclear weapon, you wonder how all of that history will play out.

In the meantime, we need to keep focused on the harvest before us. Our task is following our Savior into the harvest He died to redeem, making disciples who make disciples. We don't need to be consumed with the events that are slowly coming to the horizon. As to what is going to happen and when it's going to happen, remember what Jesus said to the disciples in Acts 1:7-8, He said to them, "It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the end of the earth."

Titus 1

Vs. 1-3 To my knowledge, this is the longest introduction of any of Paul's letters. Notice how much "gospel" Paul puts in here. It sets the tone of the letter and shows Titus what kind of foundation needs to be laid in this church.

V. 4 Apparently, Paul led Titus to Christ.

Vs. 5-9 Paul and Titus had traveled together and Paul left Titus in Crete. This is all after the events recorded in Acts. Notice that Paul gave Titus apostolic authority. Titus was to appoint elders. There was no congregational voting here.

V. 9 Notice that the elders had the authority to protect the teaching of the church.

Vs. 10-16 Once again, there was pressure for the Gentile Christians to adopt customs and teaching from the Jewish law. This new church in Crete needed to have these false teachers strongly rebuked, and Titus was the man. In contrast, Paul never told Timothy to rebuke anyone in Ephesus, probably because they had a better core of leaders for Timothy to work with.

In order for this church to reach its harvest, it had to be unified around Jesus and His mission, and therefore the need for order and correct teaching. That's the same with us. If the church is not bearing fruit for the Lord in the harvest, making disciples who make disciples, we are doing something wrong and are focused on the wrong stuff. Sometimes before we become fruitful, there needs to be correction, in our hearts and in the group.

Psalms 97-98

I appreciate more and more that there is a "price" to pay to be able to sing these songs from the heart. In Psalm 98 it mentions "a new song." From Psalm 40 you see that it is the Lord who puts that new song in our hearts. Only He can do it, and I think it gets there by Him proving us in the harvest, following Christ.

Psalm 97

Vs. 1-5 The Lord reigns and even the creation obeys and bows before Him. What chance does puny man have before Him?

Vs. 6-7 This is just like Romans 1:18-22. How can we disregard the Creator and worship images and creatures and stuff?

Vs. 8-9 Zion rejoices because Israel's only hope is the Creator, and He will take His seat in Zion and rule the earth. Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is He. All things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. (John 1:3)

Vs. 10-12 Love, not slavish obedience, has always been the key to knowing God and knowing His joy and blessing.

He reigns.

Psalm 98

Vs. 1-3 That "new song" begins with salvation, and we learn new verses of that song as we follow Christ in the harvest, experiencing grace after grace, deliverance after deliverance, seeing new spiritual life come into existence, learning how deep and wonderful God is. But, we can never forget our salvation. Notice that verse 3 is in the past tense. That hasn't happened yet, but it will.

Vs. 4-6 The celebration of the saved should be with all their heart and passion and skill.

Vs. 7-9 The celebration of the creation will join in to the song as the King approaches.

Thank You for Saving Me - Delirious The song turns into a celebration. Try to listen to all seven minutes.

Proverbs 26:13-16

We have either met this guy, or we've been this guy in some area of our lives. God is certainly for rest, but He is not for this kind of behavior.

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this link http://www.esvbible.org/devotions/every-day-in-the-word/. If that doesn't work, go to http://www.esvbible.org/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. Send comments or feedback to dgkachikis@gmail.com.

October 25, 2012 Reading Notes

October 25, 2012 Reading Notes

Today's Reading in the ESV One-Year Bible

Today you will read Paul's last written words. It is interesting that the Lord worked it out so that Paul's final words would be written to a disciple, and they are great words. Also, I'm sure if you take everything Paul has written and rearrange the letters just right, you can make the sentence, "Go out and enjoy a pumpkin spice latte as you read today."

Jeremiah 48-49:22

This section today records God's punishment of three neighboring nations who were also "relatives" of Israel. Moab and Ammon were descendants of Lot, Abraham's nephew. Edom came from Esau, the son of Isaac and brother of Jacob. All of these nations played a role in the corruption and demise of Israel, but Edom's actions during the time of the destruction of Jerusalem put them into a special category.

Jeremiah 48

This is the judgment on Moab. I have no idea why so much space is given to them other than they may have had the largest and most ungodly influence on Israel. Their influence goes back to the wilderness and Baal Peor and Balaam. That was a crucial, defining event in Israel's wanderings in Numbers 25 and it is referred to again and again in both the Old Testament and in the New Testament. Also, Solomon was greatly influenced by his wives from Moab and Ammon. It was Solomon who introduced idolatry into Israel and into the family of David. It is probably because of this idolatry that Solomon and his sons were not in the physical line of Christ, the line of Mary, as given in the Gospel of Luke. Chemosh, Molech and Milcom were the same gods, and these were the gods who were worshiped by throwing babies into their open mouths of fire. The babies came as the result of the "X-rated" worship of Baal and his wife Ashtoreth. It was the sex apparently that lured the old king into this spiritual defection. As the text below shows, Solomon worshiped these gods and this came by the influence of his wives from Moab and Ammon. Again, this is probably the reason why Moab is given such eminence in this judgment.

1 Kings 11:5-7 For Solomon went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Sidonians, and after Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites. So Solomon did what was evil in the sight of the LORD and did not wholly follow the LORD, as David his father had done. Then Solomon built a high place for Chemosh the abomination of Moab, and for Molech the abomination of the Ammonites, on the mountain east of Jerusalem.

Vs. 1-8 This is the declaration of destruction and distress that will come on Moab. Notice the reference to Chemosh in verse 7.

Vs. 9-10 Moab will flee but the pursuers will not give up.

Vs. 11-13 Moab lived in relative ease, never having to change, also meaning that they never repented from idolatry. Chemosh is there again.

Vs. 14-20 This is the taking away of Moab's pride, both in removing its heroes and destroying its cities.

Vs. 21-25 This again is the summary of Moab's humbling.

Vs. 26-27 And this is the reason for God's judgment. It is interesting that God promises this judgment, but the armies that did it were not from Israel. Moab was destroyed by God, using other nations, not Israel.

Vs. 28-33 The people of Moab would become homeless.

Vs. 34-39 This is the mourning and crying of the people of Moab.

Vs. 40-46 This is God's declaration of judgment and suffering. And there is Chemosh mentioned again in verse 46.

V. 47 Yet at the end of the age, in the Millennial Kingdom, there will be blessing for Moab. Go figure.

Jeremiah 49

Vs. 1-6 This is the judgment on Ammon.

V. 3 Milcom was another name for Molech or Chemosh (the sacrifice of babies).

V. 6 Yet even for Ammon, at the end of the age, in the Millennial Kingdom, there will be blessing.

Vs. 7-22 The judgment against Edom.

Vs. 9-10 This hints at some of Edom's sin. During the destruction of Jerusalem and destruction of the surrounding cities, the Edomites were like the grape pickers and thieves, Babylon's little helpers. The Edomites picked everything bare.

You'll notice that there is no mention of restoration for Edom. We'll read more about Edom in the book of Obadiah, but Malachi 1:4 says it all.

Malachi 1:4 If Edom says, "We are shattered but we will rebuild the ruins," the LORD of hosts says, "They may build, but I will tear down, and they will be called 'the wicked country,' and 'the people with whom the LORD is angry forever.'"

No millennial blessing here.

Notice again that God Himself pronounces judgment, but Israel was not His tool for punishment of the nations. God allowed the nations to punish one another. Israel was purposed for the redemption of the nations; and, as we've seen, they themselves were judged and punished.

2 Timothy 4

Vs. 1-2 The day I memorized this, it was like being given a privilege by the Lord. Next to the Great Commission and Acts 1:8, I believe this is the greatest charge to us in the NT. It's hard to get back to the old, strong roots of conviction; but this charge, this truth, and this confidence in the Word of God has to be alive in our hearts in each generation until Jesus returns. It is the Word, and nothing but the Word, that the Spirit uses to give light and life. We are here to shine in the darkness and to give testimony to the truth.

Vs. 3-4 Again, that sense of urgency.

V. 5 This was a personal charge for Timothy, from teacher to disciple. Notice the call to suffer and to reach out. Somehow I think those go together.

Vs. 6-8 Paul was confident that his time was short.

Vs. 9-10 Timothy needed to get to Paul ASAP. Demas may have been the only person to desert Paul, but it seems fishy to me that Titus and Crescens were mentioned in the same breath.

It could very well be that when the great panic struck the group, as the Romans did what they did and grabbed Paul, that in sheer fear, the group scattered. Demas, apparently, was motivated by something more than fear. And too, it may be that Titus and Crescens had already left and were on assignment when the hammer fell.

Vs. 11-13 Luke was still there, good old Luke. Paul needed help and I think it may have been more than a one-man job.

Mark is the guy who deserted Paul early in the book of Acts, but now Mark had written the Gospel of Mark. He was a cousin of Barnabas.

If Timothy was working in Ephesus, one of the things on his mind would have been leaving the work unattended to go to Paul in Rome. Therefore, I think, Paul told Tim that he had already sent Tychicus to him, to take over for him.

V. 13 Paul needed the cloak for the dark, dank, dirty, dismal dungeon. It is interesting that Paul wanted the Bible too. He needed the encouragement of the Word right to the end. Apparently they didn't have "compact" versions back then.

Vs. 14-15 We don't know who this Alexander was, but God did. Timothy was ordered by the Spirit to avoid him.

Vs. 16-18 Paul appeared before Nero and the other judges. In 64 AD Nero burned Rome and began his persecution of the Christians, whom he made the scapegoats for his madness. This was now 67 AD, and though Paul had managed to serve "under the radar," God brought him "front and center" now to bear witness before the Gentiles. Look at what Jesus told the twelve when He sent them out:

Matthew 10:17-20 Beware of men; for they will deliver you over to courts, and flog you in their synagogues, and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles. When they deliver you over, do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour. For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.

Vs. 20-21 These are very interesting short bursts. I find it interesting that God didn't allow Trophimus to be healed.

For a second time, Paul asks Timothy to come quickly.

Though we will read more of what Paul wrote, these are Paul's last recorded words on earth, in the harvest.

Since we're concluding 2 Timothy, this is a good song to hear again. It's a good call to following as disciples in the harvest.

Guard the Trust, Steve Camp

Psalms 95-96

Psalm 95

Vs. 1-5 What a joyous call to worship.

Vs. 6-11 And this is an interesting way to tell people that if they are His sheep, they need to follow. When we get to Hebrews, we'll hear some of these words again in reference to entering God's rest.

You'll enjoy this video today. The song is beautiful and true to the text. If this is what Psalm 95 sounded like, sung in worship in Israel, then the singers were definitely blessing and opening the hearts of the people.

Psalm 95, Sons of Korah

Psalm 96

Vs. 1-6 This psalm is full of testimony to the nations based on the new song of salvation that the Lord had put into the hearts of His people. This is the way God does it. Those who know Him, His love and His presence are the ones who are compelled to share Him in the harvest.

Vs. 7-9 Notice how redemptive this song is. All nations are called upon to come to the Lord and give glory to Him.

V. 10 The good news for everyone is that the Lord reigns. And we know the One who is on the throne.

Vs. 11-13 The curse on creation will be lifted when the Lord comes. Though judgment is mentioned here, no one who sings this psalm has any fear of the judge. There is only the joy of His coming.

Proverbs 26:9-12

This all looked pretty good. I was smiling and agreeing with it all, until I ran into verse 12 and hurt myself. J

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this link http://www.esvbible.org/devotions/every-day-in-the-word/. If that doesn't work, go to http://www.esvbible.org/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. Send comments or feedback to dgkachikis@gmail.com.