October 15, Reading Notes

Jeremiah 26-27

Today is an example of how Jeremiah and the Spirit organized material topically rather than chronologically.

Jer. 26

Vs. 1-3 The timing of this was at the beginning of Jehoiakim's reign, but it is evident from verse 21 that he was already reigning for a while and he was a very "no nonsense" kind of guy. So, Jeremiah was being thrown into harm's way, but God said He would protect Jer.

Vs. 4-6 A very simple message. The people had already slipped back into idolatry.

Vs. 7-11 Notice it is the priest and the prophets who are behind this.

Vs. 12-14 Jeremiah was faithful to proclaim God's word and to warn the people.

Vs. 15-24 There were still some good people around. Thank God for Ahikam the son of Shaphan. It should be noted that there were good people who had been influenced by Josiah's revival. In fact, the parents of Daniel & Co. were raised during Josiah's reign and those boys were born at the end of Josiah's reign. Daniel was from that era and became one of the most godly men in the Bible.

Jer. 27

The Word of the Lord fell on deaf ears during Jehoiakim. Now, in the time of Zedekiah the option is not "obey Me and be saved," but "obey Me and submit to Nebuchadnezzar."

Vs. 1-7 This is a very interesting summary of God's direction and power using Babylon.

Vs. 8-15 What an interesting test to give Zedekiah. Jeremiah will tell him this privately just before his death. Zedekiah should have listened.

Vs. 16-22 There is hope in what God says here, but I'm sure the priests (remember how much they liked Jeremiah in the last chapter?) were totally not happy.

2 Thessalonians 3

Vs. 1-5 It is interesting that Paul is writing this from Corinth and asking for their prayers and God's blessing. Corinth is the only city I can think of where Jesus appeared to Paul and told him to hang on. Paul had already faced church related worry and suffering. Corinth would now be added to that burden.

Vs. 6-12 Apparently some people quit their jobs thinking the Lord's coming was around the corner. Paul and Co. had set an example for the Thessalonians in working and caring.

Vs. 13-15 You can find similar warnings in 1 Cor. and in Romans.

Vs. 16-18 A closing of the letter marked with the proof of the apostle.

Psalm 85

Vs. 1-3 This looks like it could be talking about how God was patient with the people in the wilderness or during the time of the judges.

Vs. 4-13 This could have been sung to God immediately after the kingdom split or during any of the valley Judah went through. It could have be written during the exile or shortly afterward.

It is also true that we can pray this in many times of our lives. We change, our circumstances change, God is always the same and He is gracious, forgiving and full of loving kindness.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Dg55eP4zw8

Proverbs 25:16

So, to what do you think this should be applied?

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

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

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

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

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

October 14, Reading Notes

Jeremiah 23:21-25:38

Jer. 23: 21-40

Vs. 21-32 God isn't finished with the false prophets. It is interesting to be reading this and then to see in 2 Thess., that there will be lying signs and wonders.

Notice in this section how often you find, "declares the Lord."

As you read this, what is God really upset about? Along with that thought, there are two questions that help show the structure of this rebuke to the prophets.

Vs. 33-40 Now God is going after those who were ridiculing Jeremiah, not realizing that they were really ridiculing God. I guess they would go up to Jeremiah and say, "What is the BURDEN of the Lord?" I'm sure once this hit the street it was great fun and there were hundreds of variations. And let's face it, every time Jeremiah opened his mouth there was some clump of bad news that fell out. But, of course, the problem was it was really God speaking. Poor Jeremiah. And, can you imagine that God pays such close attention to the words people use?

Jer. 24

This chapter is one vision.

Vs. 4-7 This was already being fulfilled before God said it through Jeremiah. Daniel chapters 1-3 had already taken place before this deportation. Those 4 men, Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, were upper echelon leaders in Nebuchadnezzar's government and Daniel was his chief advisor. Neb had already been hit with the fear of God, literally, and the Jews were a protected people in his empire, exempt from worshipping anything by Yahweh. God is pretty cool.

V. 7 That still hasn't happened, but it probably will during the tribulation and especially in the Millennium.

Jer. 25

Vs. 1-2 Notice that this is going back in time. Chapter 24 was after the death of Jehoiakim and this chapter is in the 4th year of Jehoiakim (who reigned about 11 years). Four years after Jehoiakim was made king by Pharaoh Neco, Nebuchadnezzar showed up. Neb took some of the stuff from the temple to show he was bigger than God, and then took about 1-3000 people, including many of the younger men, to be trained in his service. Among these people were four teens: Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah.

I'm thinking that Jeremiah spoke these words before Nebuchadnezzar showed up, because the 70 years wouldn't begin until Daniel and the others were taken to Babylon.

Vs. 3-14 Jehoiakim had only reigned 4 years but was said to be an evil king. Jeremiah was a veteran prophet and God had shown great kindness through Josiah. Now in these few short years, the people had not listened and the country fully embraced Baal and everything else.

The reason for the 70 years is in 2 Ch. 36:21, because they had never trusted God enough to give the land its Sabbaths. In 70 years, Daniel would be reading these chapters and praying for the return of the people in spite of the lions roaring in the background. It is because of Daniel chapter 6 that the people get sent back.

Vs. 15-29 This is the vision of Jeremiah feeding the nations the wine of God's wrath. There is an "end times" feel to this. Figuratively speaking, Jeremiah's eyes had "seen the glory of the coming of the Lord who was tramping out the vintage where the grapes of wrath were stored." Now God put it in a glass and Jeremiah was feeding it to the nations.

Vs. 30-33 This is God's wrath against the nations.

Vs. 34-38 Again, God is declaring the shepherds (kings, priests, leaders) responsible and they will be punished.

Reading this about the shepherds reminded me of the following song. I used to sing this all the time and I still love it. We are all meant to lead others as makers of disciples, guiding, encouraging, entrusting, strengthening others to follow Christ. But the real training for this is not a seminar or a seminary, but that we ourselves are led by Christ and His Spirit.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oAcgX3Aqo9g

2 Thessalonians 2

Some of the teaching we get here, thanks to this conflict, we find nowhere else in the Bible. Poor Paul had to lose some sleep and have some agitation, but we get a treat. Funny how God keeps working like that.

Vs. 1-2 This was sort of like the old joke (for those who believe in the pre-trib rapture) that the rapture came and you got left behind. But here, no one was laughing. It was being said that the Day of the Lord had begun and they were shaken because what Paul apparently had taught them didn't happen.

As has happened in all centuries since this was written, people see their circumstances as being the fulfilling of the Day of the Lord. The present Roman persecution was being explained as being that day.

Vs. 3-12 Paul apparently gave them some very thorough teaching about the last days. Why do you think he taught this to new believers, particularly these new believers? So, according to Paul, what has to happen to know it is really, really the day of the Lord?

It seems to me that because of the persecution, Paul needed to give them hope and show them God's plan.

V. 3 The rebellion is "apostasy," a departure from the faith. You see this mentioned also in 1 Tim. 4:1, 2 Tim. 3:1 and 2 Tim. 4:4. Apparently it will be a world event coming up to the Day. Times of stress will come and people will depart or adopt a "Christianity" that is nothing like Jesus.

V. 6 The restrainer is removed. Obviously it is not the Holy Spirit Himself. People will be saved during the tribulation. My opinion is that the restrainer is the influence of the Holy Spirit through the church. The church is taken at the beginning of the Day of the Lord. Apparently the Thessalonians were taught this and knew "who" or "what" the restrainer was. If you go back to 1 Thes. 1:10 and realize that the wrath to come is the Day of the Lord, you understand that the church is to be excluded from (taken out of) that wrath. It is the time of Jacob's trouble, where Israel, not the church, will be tested and proven. With the church gone, the physical influence of the Holy Spirit will be removed from millions of towns, cities, offices, and places of decision.

Vs. 7-8 The revealing of the man of sin.

Vs. 9-12 Incredible, visible, lying signs and wonders, visible to the entire world.

Vs. 13-17 Based on what Paul has just said, it is impossible that the Day of the Lord has come. They were chosen to give glory to Christ. They were to be established and comforted by this teaching and keep extending love and testimony in the harvest.

Looking at the teaching Paul gave these new Christians, they expected to be persecuted and their hope in this dying world was Christ's return for them at some point in this harvest. You wonder if Paul's/the Spirit's warnings about people falling away, holding a form of religion but denying the power of it, was just a bunch of baloney. The only way to prove we are followers is to follow in the harvest. I wonder if it is possible that we have a brand of discipleship and church that would endure if we were really subjected to pain.

Psalm 84

If you could find that one place where there is perfect peace and comfort, where you can be accepted and at rest, wouldn't you want to visit it regularly? It isn't really a place, it's a person. But really, someday that person will be in a place we can get to, and I'll be happy to be there. For now, we seek Him in secret.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z8CdpR159eE

Proverbs 25:15

So what does this say to the disciple in the harvest, bearing fruit with patience?

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

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

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

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

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

October 13, Reading Notes

Jeremiah 22-23:20

Jer. 22

The kings after Josiah went like this: Josiah, Josiah's son Shallum, Josiah's son Jehoiakim, Jehoiakim's son Jehoiachin, Josiah's son Zedekiah.

This prophesy to the kings seems to be made toward the end of Jehoiakim's reign. When Josiah died, the people made his oldest son Shallum the king. Pharoah Nico took Shallum prisoner and made his brother, Jehoiakim, king. After Jehoiakim, Coniah (Jeconiah or Jehoiachin) was made king. Jehoiachin surrendered to Nebuchadnezzar and Neb made another son of Josiah, the king, Jehoiachin's uncle Zedekiah.

Anyway, Zedekiah is not in view here so the timing seems to be during Jehoiakim's reign, looking back to Shallum and looking forward to Jehoiachin.

Vs. 1-10 If this word was spoken to Jehoiakim, it definitely fell on deaf ears. We'll see Jehoiakim's true character in a few chapters.

Vs. 11-17 Rather than fearing and respecting God and taking to heart what happened to his brother Shallum, Jehoiakim lived the good life and was a rotten ruler.

Vs. 18-19 As a result, no one would be sad to see Jehoiakim die.

Vs. 20-23 This is a cry to the house of David and the entire nation. Notice the mention of the shepherds. The shepherds (leaders) will be the focus of the next chapter.

Vs. 24-30 Jehoiachin was only 18 or 19 when taken as a prisoner to Babylon. Oddly enough, 37 years after he was taken, Nebuchadnezzar's son, Evil Knievel, freed Jehoiachin, I think as proof of the blessing God spoke on those who would surrender to Nebuchadnezzar.

One interesting note here is that God says none of Jehoiachin's descendants would sit on the throne of David. Joseph, Mary's husband, was descended from David through Jehoiachin. That would have made Jesus disqualified, but Jesus was the physical son of Mary, who was descended from David through Nathan, none of whose sons became kings.

Jer. 23

Vs. 1-4 This is the promise of judgment on the past shepherds of Israel and a promise for the regathering of the people under good shepherds.

Vs. 5-8 The house of David will once again become good shepherds. In fact, the shepherd in view here is "The Good Shepherd," Jesus Himself. I think the days in view here are the Millennial Kingdom when Jesus rules over the world and the Jews are regathered to Israel.

Vs. 9-10 This cry of Jeremiah is because of the false prophets, some of whom were priests and known by Jeremiah.

Vs. 11-15 In this judgment on the prophets and priests, there is a comparison between the false prophets of Samaria and Jerusalem. The main difference is that while the prophets in Samaria spoke in the name of Baal, the prophets in Jerusalem spoke in the name of the Lord.

Vs. 16-20 God will continually show these prophets are wrong by bringing disaster on the people.

2 Thessalonians 1

This letter was probably written in Corinth after Timothy returned from Thessalonica. The two big issues that seem to be present had to do with holding up under persecution and there was some false teaching about the Lord's return.

Vs. 1-4 Their growth was evident in how they treated one another and how they stood firm in persecution and affliction. In their short time as a church, God had made them an example to other churches.

Vs. 5-6 In suffering God tempers His people, proving their "worth," that is, that they are saved, deepening them through suffering. When those who mistreat believers see that it doesn't work, they see this as an omen of their coming judgment. I think Paul saw this during that time when he persecuted the church.

Vs. 7-10 At the judgment there will be vindication and joy for those who have suffered, and there will be judgment for those who don't know God.

V. 9 Hell will be away from the presence or face of the Lord, and they will have no sense of His glory or might. Everyone alive has an internal sense of His eternal power and deity. We all enjoy God's work and presence. That will be removed.

V. 10 Jesus will be glorified IN his people who held on.

Vs. 11-12 Paul's prayer wasn't that they would be soft Christians, but that the power of Christ would be proven in them so that Christ would be shown to be the almighty Savior that He is. As disciples we know the general direction, but it is the Lord's choice to determine how our lives will bring glory to Him. If it means being crushed for Christ to bring Him glory, then we praise God in the press.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVV5lmlbgpM&feature=related

Psalm 83

To me, verses 16 & 18 are the most interesting verses. Even in calling on God to rebuke these nations, there is the thought that if God humbles them, they may seek Him. After the seeking comes the knowing, and God receives the glory.

Proverbs 25:11-14

All of these are good words and advice. Inherent in God mentioning these is His desire that we become the positive examples and don't become the negative example.

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

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

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

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

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

October 12, Reading Notes

Jeremiah 19-21

Jer. 19

Where the illustration of the potter showed that God could change things quickly based on the obedience or disobedience of the people, this illustration showed that the damage the people brought on themselves was irreparable.

Vs. 1-13 I'm guessing this was either during the time of Jehoiakim or during the early years of Zedekiah. Both of these kings were ungodly and led the people in worshipping everything.

V. 5 I have never heard of human sacrifice being a part of Baal worship. I would guess that the altar (mouth) of Moloch was set up at the same place. I'm sure that in the minds of the people, the worship of Baal and unwanted children that came from it, was closely associated with Moloch and throwing those babies into its burning mouth.

V. 9 If you understand verse five, you see that this was justice, not on innocent people, but on those who were involved in Baal worship.

Vs. 14-15 After Jeremiah returned to the city with those people and leaders who had gone with him, curious as to the Word of the Lord he would be declaring, Jeremiah entered the temple courts and finished the message.

Jer. 20

Jeremiah was a well established phenomenon in Jerusalem by this time. He was hated and tolerated and everyone knew their place. I'm sure that Jeremiah wasn't ready to have his education as a prophet of God suddenly take a giant step forward.

Vs. 1-2 This guy appears to have been the first to lay hands on Jeremiah. He beat Jeremiah and it looks like it was public. The mystique was gone. Jeremiah was no longer untouchable. Pashhur was a very common name. If you do a word search you'll find lots of them.

Vs. 3-6 Even if Jeremiah had wanted to go away quietly, he couldn't. The Lord put a word in his mouth that I'm also sure went public.

It is hard to say when this happened but there are only two possibilities. After Jehoiakim rebelled against Nebuchadnezzar and died, his eighteen year old son became king. In obedience to Jeremiah, after ruling for 100 days, he and his mother walked out of the gate of Jerusalem and gave up the city to Neb and was taken to prison in Babylon. At that time, still in God's mercy and I think Neb was being advised by Daniel, Neb left the city standing, the temple intact; but to humble Jerusalem and Judah, he took 12-13,000 leaders, craftsmen, and businessmen into exile. The false prophets, like Pashhur, had said this would never happen, but it did.

It could be that Pashhur was taken at this time. However, this was not the siege of Jerusalem that led to people eating their children. That came 10 years later at the end of Zedekiah's reign. If I were a guessing man, I'd say that Pashhur was taken with Jehoiachin to Babylon as a sign for the people that God meant business and to keep their hands off of Jeremiah.

Vs. 7-10 Jeremiah's humiliation and his calling.

Vs. 11-13 Now if Jeremiah wrote all of this at one sitting, he was off of his bi-polar meds. I think this was all the reflection of a few days, or weeks. Jeremiah understood that in spite of his humiliation, God did judge Pashhur; and Jeremiah survived and was set free. He would need to remember this lesson because it would get worse.

Vs. 14-18 Doesn't this sound like Job? Jeremiah, as a priest, would have had a copy available to him. It seems to me that it isn't so much that Jeremiah is lamenting what just happened to him, but that God is using him to declare judgment on the people and that he is witnessing everything.

Jer. 21

This chapter may be several years after the last chapter showing the continuation of the prophesy of the broken flask.

Vs. 1-2 After Nebuchadnezzar took Jehoiachin and the 12,000 into captivity, he left Zedekiah (Jehoiachin's uncle) in Jerusalem as king. This was actually an act of mercy by God, and again, I think Daniel advised Neb to be nice. But, because of the hope of Egypt's army and the fact that Babylon was so far away, Zedekiah rebelled. Zedekiah also had an army of prophets telling him that the Babylonians would be defeated by Egypt or Assyria and that the people taken in exile would soon return. There were even exiles in Babylon prophesying this and sending word back to Jerusalem.

It is totally ironic to think God would deal with them "according to His wonderful deeds." Not only had God shown them mercy in Neb not destroying the city, but they were still just as idolatrous as ever.

Vs. 3-14 Notice in this prophesy, there are different people addressed.

I heard that when they found the Dead Sea scrolls, tied to the scroll of Jeremiah there was a memory card. This is what was on it, I think from Jeremiah himself.

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

1 Thessalonians 5:4-28

Vs. 4-11 This is not saying that as children of light, Christians know when the day of the Lord is to begin; but that they know it will begin, and so to be alert and keep working in harvest.

If you live oblivious to all of this, you really don't need verse 11. The Thessalonians needed it, not only because of the persecution and because they had apparently lost people, but because they kept trying to work in their city reaching lost people, making disciples.

Vs. 12-13 Support your local leaders/elders. Actually, since they were going through persecution, they needed to bind together with the leaders more than ever.

Vs. 14-22 These are a bunch of very important admonitions.

V. 18 My cell phone, out of the blue, totally unexpected, utterly without provocation, died today. I know enough to get over it and I'm giving thanks because I know God did it, or let it happen, for a reason.

V. 23 How do you understand this verse?

V. 24 And then, how do you understand this?

We're blazing through these letters, so it is good for us to remember that these were written to disciples. The disciples in Thessalonica didn't have much of a Bible. Maybe they had a couple of letters. They might have had a copy of Mark's gospel. We have so much more, but they were risking their lives and livelihoods daily in following Christ. They truly were taking up the cross of their death and following Christ into the harvest, reaching out to the lost and making disciples.

People are complex. We want a lot of things and are driven by our egos, sin, desires, etc…. Discipleship is simple. We just do whatever He asks. And that's what we've been reading.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kv4DDXJTga8

Psalm 82

Just like in Jeremiah, the rulers of the people, the shepherds, could lead the people astray and bend justice. That is the point of this psalm. Judges, rulers, elders are appointed by God and rule under Him. That means they are also accountable to Him.

Jesus quotes verse six meaning that if God called leaders "gods (elohim, mighty ones)," how much more should Jesus be called the Son of God and God the Son.

Proverbs 25:7-10

V. 7 Don't be quick to seek status. Know your place. Let the Lord do it.

V. 8 Don't be quick to assume what you think you saw was accurate and declare it publicly. Find out first.

V. 9 Don't be quick to assume you understand your neighbor's actions and tell your thoughts to others. Go ask him first.

Now if we could just institute these in the church. God is always working, so we need to slow down, take a breath and do things His way.

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

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

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

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

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

October 11, Reading Notes

Jeremiah 16:16-18:23

Jer. 16:16-21

Vs. 16-18 There are a few places where God expresses His pursuit of those who reject Him, and this is one of them. It reminds you of the words in Hebrews 10:31, "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." It is also interesting that God says He is always watching.

Vs. 19-20 This is Jeremiah's confidence in the Lord and his desire to see God acknowledged.

V. 21 God will bring a time when people will know Him.

Jer. 17

Vs. 1-4 God explains how deeply engraved idolatry and ignorance was in the culture. When God brought Israel into Canaan, the culture was so corrupt that God's only solution was to wipe it clean. This generation in Israel is in the same state. God will need to punish these people and then totally remove the survivors to another place to save Israel. It makes you wonder about cultures today.

Vs. 5-6 The curse of those who ignore God.

Vs. 7-8 This blessing sounds like Psalm 1.

Vs. 9-10 Verse 9 is famous. The heart is deceitful and incurably sick. While the penalty and judgment against sin can be removed, the sickness of sin in us remains strong. "Defeating" sin means we need to be in the Word, following the Spirit and responding to Christ in love for what He has done for us. Thank God for His grace and His cure in our Lord. Being released from this body to be with Christ will be the death of sin in us.

Vs. 11-13 This appears to be a judgment against injustice that was going on among the people. True riches are found in God, including the living waters. John 7:37 On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and proclaimed, "If any one thirst, let him come to me and drink.

Vs. 14-18 In spite of Jeremiah's desire to help his people, the people were getting tired of Jeremiah and persecution against him was growing. What is interesting is that Jeremiah's pleas to God are beginning to sound like God's pronouncements of justice on the people. Jeremiah is beginning to see how wicked the people are.

Vs. 19-27 It looks like God is giving the people a very simple test of their obedience.

Jer. 18

Vs. 1-11 So what do you think the point of this illustration is? It seems to me that God is saying that He can shape and change the events and times at will, so they really ought to obey Him.

Vs. 12-17 This is the people's response to God and God's pronouncement against them.

Vs. 18-23 This is the people's response to Jeremiah and Jeremiah's response to God. Notice verse 23. Jeremiah is now feeling what God is feeling regarding the sin of the people. In all the years of preaching to and ministering to the people, Jeremiah has begun to understand God and has become more like God.

1 Thessalonians 4-5:3

1Thes. 4

Vs. 1-8 It is interesting that both Corinth and Thessalonica were known for loose living and Paul had to urge believers in both cities to concentrate on living holy to God and resisting immorality. The church today still needs to hear this. The sexual saturation of our culture: TV, movies and especially the web, has made this even more necessary now than back then.

Vs. 13-18 There appears to have been some misunderstanding of Paul's teaching, or there was some other teaching that contradicted what Paul had taught. It seems to me that someone was teaching that those who had died as believers in Christ would not be a part of the church uniting with Christ at the rapture.

Paul was speaking to encourage and restore the hope of being united in the resurrection at Christ's coming.

1Thes. 5:1-3

This day of the Lord is the seven-year tribulation. The beginning of this time is hidden, but once it begins, you can mark off the days until the return of Jesus.

Psalm 81

What stands out to me here is God's pleading for the people to listen to Him. God said this of Israel, I'm sure He says it of the generation of people on the earth, and I wonder if He says this about the church.

In our reading today, thinking about the effects of sin on us, on culture, on our response to God, it all points to the need to keep before the Lord and plead with God for ourselves and others in the harvest. Our hearts need to be kept aflame in His love and we have a harvest to work in before the Lord returns.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYuWOx2pp38&feature=related

Proverbs 25:6-7

This sure sounds like something Jesus said. Apparently the Pharisees didn't read the proverbs.

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

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

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

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

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

October 10, Reading Notes

Jeremiah 14:11-16:15

Jer. 14:11-22

Vs. 11-12 Since the people wouldn't repent, God told Jeremiah, yet again, not to intercede for the people.

Vs. 13-16 Jeremiah reminds God that the people were being fed lies by the false prophets.

Vs. 17-22 Jeremiah cries and laments for the people, pleading with God as Moses and Samuel did for the people.

Jer. 15

Vs. 1-4 are God's answer to Jeremiah's lament and continues what God said in 14:11.

V. 1 Even if Moses and Samuel pleaded, God would not hear them.

V. 4 This gives us some understanding in what was behind the ruination of the people. Manasseh drove the people to such wickedness and idolatry for 50 years that the people were incurable. Not only that, God vowed that He would punish Jerusalem for all the innocent blood that was shed in the city.

Vs. 5-9 God makes Jerusalem a widow.

Vs. 10-21 Jeremiah's lament and God's answers.

V. 10 Jeremiah laments his life and calling.

V. 11 God assures Jeremiah of vindication…

Vs. 13-14 …by punishing his enemies and making them serve their enemies.

Vs. 15-18 Jeremiah, it appears, tried to quit, but there was no place to turn in the prophet's badge. Having been in ministry, I know this feeling way too well.

Vs. 19-21 God reaffirms His calling to Jeremiah if he will get out of his self pity and serve Him.

Jer. 16:1-15

Vs. 1-4 Just as God did to other prophets, He made some demands on Jeremiah to help him, but also to be a sign to the people. (For Ezekiel's protection and as a sign to the people, God made him unable to speak unless He was talking through him.) In this case, God forbade Jeremiah to take a wife during this time of judgment.

Vs. 5-7 Jeremiah couldn't mourn with the mourning.

Vs. 8-9 Jeremiah couldn't rejoice with the rejoicing.

Vs. 10-13 When Jeremiah declared these restrictions to the people, God knew the people would act surprised that God was so mad at them. God does not take idolatry lightly.

Vs. 14-15 This is a very, very strong thing that God was going to do, and as we'll see in Daniel, it involved a lot of love and grace and power from God to free His people from their upcoming captivity.

1 Thessalonians 2:10-3:13

1Thes. 2:10-20

Vs. 10-12 Poor Paul, always having to defend himself. It was hard for those false teachers to match Paul's heartfelt compassion after being saved from what he was saved from. Verse 12 is the focus of all Paul & Co's actions and teaching.

V. 13 There is a certain miracle in receiving the Word of God. What cheered this disciple maker even more, was that the people were able to see past Paul to the author of the Word. It takes a very humble teacher not to get in the way of the Word and make himself the focus.

Vs. 14-16 The first two sentences begin with "for." This shows the proof of verse 13. The reality of their faith and growth in Christ was the persecution they endured. In the seed that had no depth and fell away, what was the focus of the persecution and tribulation? It wasn't Jesus.

Vs. 17-20 Here again is Paul's natural compassion in Christ, in the harvest. How do you understand verses 19 & 20. If you were a bricklayer, but never laid a brick, how would that make you feel? If you were a painter, an artist, but never painted, how would that be? Paul couldn't be satisfied as a disciple maker, a laborer in the harvest, without fruit. If you get what is being said here, my question is how we can be satisfied, regardless where we work in the harvest, in the field, in the barn, in the machine shed fixing the equipment, cooking for the field workers, without fruit, without a harvest.

1Thes. 3

Vs. 1-5 Two things stand out to me. First, Paul had someone like Timothy who would go back into a tough situation, who knew how to teach and to strengthen. Second, Paul gave this young church and these new believers a vision of following Christ that included suffering and affliction.

Vs. 6-10 What is interesting to me in this section, is the weight of care Paul had for them in Christ. I wonder if Jesus' weight of care for us is any less.

Vs. 11-13 These are familiar themes: love for one another out of the love of Christ, and honoring God. But did you notice how this ended. Jesus is the finish line. Our goal is meeting this person, our savior. Our goal is not doing good and being religious. That's a huge difference.

Psalm 80

This would have had to have been written during the years of Isaiah or after the exile. Isn't it interesting reading this psalm now while we're in Jeremiah?

I still can identify with this psalm. I want the Lord's face to shine on my life and work for Him in the harvest.

This video has a few psalms on it. If you only what to hear Psalm 80, go forward to 16:00. It's beautiful.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btk3LbwgtBA&feature=results_video&playnext=1&list=PL03220D8CDB08599E

Proverbs 25:1-5

This is my favorite chapter in Proverbs. Someday, Lord willing, I'm going to memorize it.

Vs. 2-3 Substitute for "kings," "lovers of Jesus."

Vs. 4-5 Those in the presence of the king are those people he confides in and seeks advice from. For a lover of Jesus in the harvest to be established, you need other lovers of Jesus who are tender in the love and faith that are in Christ and passionate about the harvest. Too many lovers of Jesus fail for lack of kindred spirits and are influenced by the lukewarm and the resistant.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJkseqsWJ7E

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

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

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

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

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

October 9, Reading Notes

Jeremiah 12-14:10

Jer. 12

Vs. 1-4 Jeremiah is upset that as times get bad, the wicked and those who are plotting against him can hold it off longer because of their resources.

Vs. 5-6 God is challenging Jeremiah. He has not yet really seen what God's judgment will look like and how vile the people will be in their response to his preaching. God is telling Jer that this is a picnic compared to how it will be.

Vs. 7-13 You notice that the word "heritage" is prominent in this pronouncement of God's judgment on Judah and Jerusalem.

Vs. 14-17 This is a pronouncement of judgment on the neighbors, then compassion on Judah and compassion on the nations who listen to what the Lord is doing. This might be looking to the end of the tribulation and the beginning of the Millennial Kingdom.

Jer. 13

Vs. 1-7 First, what was this? Apparently it was like a belt and worn around the waist. The priest wore a sash or belt like this. John the Baptist wore one made out of leather. In order for this to have made any point to the people, it would have been recognizable and understandable to them. Apparently when Jeremiah wore it, it was either very attractive or it made him look like he was working as a priest when he wasn't.

V. 4 There are two possibilities with the Euphrates. There is a town/location about 3 miles from Jeremiah's home town of Anathoth that is spelled almost the same way. If it is the Euphrates River, that would have been a 700 mile round trip. If it is the near location, then this "parable" would have been more visible to the people and would have applied to the usefulness of the people to God. The name would have been a "suggestion" of exile sounding like the Euphrates. If it really is the Euphrates, then this is also a very strong warning about the future exile since the exiles would have been led north to the Euphrates and then south down the Tigris to Babylon.

Vs. 8-11 The point here is the linen belt. Just as the belt looked good and brought glory to the wearer, also signifying the purpose of the priest, Judah and Jerusalem's usefulness was in giving glory to God. When they stopped doing that and fell into idolatry and disobedience, they were rotted and unable to be used.

Vs. 12-14 The people's response to this word was positive. They liked wine, but these are the grapes of wrath and the anguish of this judgment would be so emotionally devastating that it would be like them being drunk, confused, off balance, and not being able to regain their composure. Imagine being drunk forever.

Vs. 15-17 God's warning of judgment and Jeremiah's warning that if the people don't listen, he'll cry again.

Vs. 18-19 This looks like it is the humbling of King Jehoiachin and his mother who actually surrendered the city to Nebuchadnezzar, keeping it from being totally destroyed. This humility marked the second deportation of exiles and was a sign of mercy. The people who remained in Jerusalem didn't heed this mercy.

Vs. 20-27 The king and the people didn't change, so the next time Nebuchadnezzar came to Jerusalem it was for total destruction.

V. 22 Some of this imagery is very strong. The harlot is being raped, receiving the punishment fitting of her sin.

V. 27 This imagery is just that, imagery. God will cleanse His people.

Jer. 14:1-10

Vs. 1-6 Drought was one of the punishments God would bring against the people if they left Him as mentioned in Deuteronomy.

Vs. 7-9 Jeremiah pleading for the people.

V. 10 But the people wouldn't change, so God had to punish them.

When Jeremiah was just getting started, King Josiah found a copy of the Bible. When they read the books of Moses to Josiah, probably Deuteronomy, Josiah was moved to tears and grief because he understood the judgment coming against his people. When we read all of this, as disciples, we need to understand that what is going to happen to the people on this planet, our town, our neighborhood, our family, who don't know Christ will make Jeremiah look like a party. Jesus said it best when He talked about what they would be facing for eternity, "where their worm does not die and the fire is not quenched." That is eternal punishment. It doesn't mean we need to get obnoxious in the harvest, but it does mean that we need to work and pray constantly. It was Jesus who saved us from the wrath of God. He is the only one who can save them.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GW2ACyQGJUA

1 Thessalonians 1-2:9

After Paul established the church in Philippi, he went on to Thessalonica, a major city of about 200,000. We've read this in Acts 17:1-9. We know Paul was there at least three weeks and might have been there from 3-6 months. Paul thanked the Philippians for two gifts of money they sent to him as he worked, starting and establishing the church in Thessalonica. From the two letters we have to this church, we can see that Paul did some very in depth teaching to establish them. There was a lot of persecution to Paul and the church there, and eventually Paul was driven out and had to flee to Berea. When Paul settled down in Corinth, he wrote these letters to encourage the people in their faith, in the persecution and to correct misunderstanding about what he taught them and to correct false teaching by some of the Jews, who, as usual tried to discredit Paul.

1Thes. 1

V. 3 Notice that their faith became immediately visible. They were immediately met with opposition.

V. 5 Notice "our gospel." This is to say that in spite of what others said about Paul, the power of the Gospel was visible to them and bore fruit.

Vs. 6-10 Children become imitators of their parents. This is why Jesus' words to His disciples are so important, "a disciple is not above his teacher." We need to be disciples of our Lord so that as we make disciples and they imitate us, they naturally grow to imitate Christ.

The word about what God did among the Thessalonians and their faith in Christ became news.

1Thes. 2:1-9

As you read this, understand that Paul had been/was being slandered and said to have taken advantage of them. Just like in 1 & 2 Corinthians, Paul is having to defend himself here. But notice the gentleness in his tone. This wasn't a job for Paul. He poured out his heart to God and to them. They even sacrificed so that they could work there among them.

Disciples in the harvest are natural born fools - pouring out their hearts, living by faith in love with Jesus Christ, allowing "life" to pass them by in order to reach out to those who don't even know they're lost. They spend their lives, working to make disciples who will do the same and follow Christ and pour out their lives to make disciples. Paul poured out his heart, first to Jesus, and then in the love of Christ for others. He was a fool for the sake of Christ. He is a good person to imitate.

I heard this song at a church that has seen many, many people come to Christ. It's not a flawless church, but they have been blessed in bearing much fruit. This song was sort of a theme song for them. Having a kind of heart in the harvest, like Paul, is more important than strategy and talent. It needs humility in our salvation and love for Christ and a bold commitment to pour out our lives for Him. John the Baptist said, "No one can receive anything, except what is given to him from heaven." Even success isn't ours, but God still searches for a kind of heart that is open to Him to use in making disciples. Paul had that heart. We need it too.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDKe95wfT7k

Psalm 79

It's kind of interesting to be reading Jeremiah as we're reading this psalm. What Asaph is protesting is exactly what God says will come upon the people.

V. 5 God's jealousy is because of Israel worshipping other gods.

God did punish the nations for going beyond the allowance He gave them to punish Judah and Jerusalem. In many cases their violence against the Jews became butchery and was filled with rage against God. Jeremiah will prophesy about that. At the end of the tribulation, this psalm will be fulfilled.

Proverbs 24:30-34

So, what is the point in all of this, especially if you don't own a vineyard or take naps in the afternoon?

It seems to me that it is saying that a little neglect leads to ruin. So, you can be a Christian workaholic and even be successful in "ministry," but neglect your marriage, your kids, your health and boom! Before you know it there are weeds all over the place; the wall is down; bad things are getting into the vineyard and it is ruined.

Along with the armor in Ephesians 6 is the command to stay alert with all perseverance. We still have this silly idea that walking though this life is easy and that God is a nice help when we need Him. This world is incredibly dangerous. Our bodies/spirits on this world are irreparably damaged, and the spiritual life is not a vigorous life. It is an impossible one. We need the Word and the Spirit every minute.

A Christian singer who the kids and I used to listen to "came out" in April 2010, making public that she is a lesbian. Now she's trying to bend the Bible to match her "lifestyle." Ironically, her life is now a ruined vineyard testifying to the truth of these verses. She never saw it coming.

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

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

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

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

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