April 14, 2012 Reading Notes

April 14, 2012 Reading Notes

http://www.esvbible.org/devotions/every-day-in-the-word/

Joshua 9:3-10:43

Joshua 9:3-27

This is a great portion of Scripture, not because Joshua and Co. were tricked by the Gibeonites, but because it shows something of the faith the Gibeonites and the understanding that all of the nations in Canaan had of the people of Israel and what God was doing with them.

Vs. 3-15 Now it says the Gibeonites acted with cunning, but there was faith in something that motivated all of this. Not everyone responded like they did.

Notice in verses 9-10 that they knew of what God had done 40 years earlier in Egypt and believed it. They also mention Og and Sihon, but notice that no mention is made of Jericho or Ai. These guys were pretty clever.

V. 14 This is the only negative thing there is in the Bible against Joshua, and God doesn't make a big deal about it. I'll bet they never failed to ask the Lord again. We’ve noticed that Joshua had failed to ask God about a couple of things. Learning to ask God in practical matters was something that he was growing in, even in his 80’s. He had intense faith in God, as we’ll see today, but had areas where he thought he could understand a situation without needing God’s guidance. This is true of all of us. I’m sure this lesson is here for us as disciples.

To Joshua’s credit, this decision turned out good for Israel and for the Gibeonites. In Nehemiah, there are Gibeonites in Jerusalem helping to rebuild the wall.

Vs. 16-21 Three days later when Israel marched on Gibeon they realized they had been hoodwinked. Notice that Gibeon was the main fortress that protected three other cities.

Notice in verse 18 that when the people of Israel found out what their leaders had done, they were upset.  Why?  Because they had internalized the message that if one person sinned, the entire nation suffered.  They knew they were not to make peace.  God took care of this situation for Israel and covered this oversight of the leaders, bringing something good out of it.  Later, after Joshua and these leaders are gone, the people will use this incident as precedence to disobey God and form alliances with people in the land.  That will be sin, since they are not tricked, and it is what will launch them into the tragedy that is the book of Judges.

Vs. 22-27 The Gibeonites, the people, the leaders, the entire city had amazing faith. Remember that Abraham & Sons © had lived in Canaan for generations long before this; and it is possible, besides the information the Gibeonites had of Egypt, that they also understood something of the history of Abraham and the promise. That's speculation, I know, but it makes you wonder. Somehow they knew of what God had said to Moses in Deuteronomy about bringing all of the inhabitants of the land to judgment. Were there spies in the crowd as Moses preached? They knew what God had said. In 10:2 it says that this was a great city with real fighters, yet they had the faith to try to make peace. God rewarded them for this.

Faith is information, trust in that information and obeying that information. This is why these people received God’s mercy. All of the other kings in Canaan knew exactly what the Gibeonites knew and chose not to believe or even run. It is the irrationality of sin.

Joshua 10

Vs. 1-5 It is interesting that God used this event with Gibeon to draw all of these kings into the open field for battle. Imagine how long this would have taken going one city at a time. These are basically the kings that held military power in the southern part of Canaan.

Vs. 6-11 Notice that God assured Joshua of victory. And then you see Joshua, the man of faith, building his strategy on God’s assurance. This is the balance of hearing God and then using our passion and creativity in following God. Both God and Joshua get their licks in, during this battle. Joshua drove his tired army by night to a place where the attack would be unexpected. Then God did His thing. First He got some confusion going and then He "threw down large stones." God made sure Israel knew that He was involved and that they weren't just winning by their own strength. In light of Joshua's request, this must have been a passing, isolated thunderstorm, since the sky was clear enough to see the sun. I can imagine the guys running from Joshua, saying, "Is it me, or does it seem to you that that cloud is following us? Ouch!"

Vs. 12-14 These verses are amazing not only because of what happened, but because of Joshua. How did Joshua know that he could do this? There must be a link between this and what Jesus told the disciples about what would be possible if they had faith as a mustard seed. Inspired by the Spirit, yet as a man fully immersed in this moment with God, Joshua called on the day to stand still. Before we get lost in the physics of the situation, think about the faith that was inspired in Joshua. I think of how Jesus knew to heal one man and walk by another. And how Peter and John one day walked past a guy Jesus had walked past many times, and knew it was time to heal him. It makes me think about the harvest and where those intersections of faith and mustard seed occur.

It was a good thing Joshua didn't know a lot about physics or natural law or anything, because if he had, he would never have asked this because it is "impossible." It wasn’t that the day slowed down, it was that it stood still, the sun and the moon remaining in the same place means the earth stopped spinning. Apparently God isn't impressed with physics either, because He did it. Just think about what had to happen for the earth to stop moving. Those hours on earth, everywhere on earth, would have been strange hours. God's power is beyond physics. Physics exist for His purposes but are not necessary. He is absolute. He creates. He stops. He resumes. Physics and natural “laws” work because He makes them work, and life can and will exist (someday) without the sun.

It is interesting on this point that Luther tried to teach science with this section and called Copernicus a fool to say that the earth revolved around the sun because Joshua clearly asked that the sun stand still. Obviously God knew what Joshua meant, and in the same way, we still call it "sunrise" and a "sunset," even in scientific journals, even though we know better.

Again, all of these nations knew what the Gibeonites knew. They could have fled, they could have repented and asked God for mercy. The same is true for the people we are sent to reach in the harvest. They need to hear the message, but responding by faith is between them and God.

Luke 16:19-17:10

Luke 16:19-31

Since Jesus was just talking to the Pharisees, this story would have been aimed at them and also would have been good teaching for the disciples.

The story of the rich man and Lazarus falls into a different category than Jesus' parables. The parables are normally faceless, nameless object lessons. They are examples of "that woman" or a "certain man." No names of historical people are ever used. Names of known people throw the meaning of the story into a historical or fictional framework. For example, if Jesus had told the story of the prodigal son, and Abraham had been the father, we would have immediately asked the question of the story being real or being something Jesus just made up using the historical figure. If the story didn't jibe with what we knew was historical, it would open the question of what, in fact, is historical in the Bible. That would be a nasty can of worms. BUT, that didn't happen. When Jesus told a parable, he used no names and didn't use historical figures.

So, what's going on here? The obvious implication is that this is an historical event. Jesus was not only the man, the Spirit indwelt Son of God, but He was also God the Son. He not only had earthly illustrations to draw upon, but as God, having seen the dramas on earth and how they were concluded when men left the earth, He knew what happened to these people when they finally entered the next life. Jesus, as God the Son, had witnessed every person who had ever lived enter the presence of God. Actually, it is a place of waiting. The waiting was for the time when the justice and righteousness of God would be fulfilled by Jesus living the perfect life and making payment for sin. The question, "Could God really provide salvation for sinners righteously, according to His own rules," was answered in Jesus' sacrifice, payment and resurrection. Until that event, there was a place of waiting, which was divided into two parts: A place of punishment and a place of comfort in the presence of God. If you read the book of Revelation, people being resurrected to judgment and being thrown into the lake of fire (hell) is still future (Rev.20). The new heavens and new earth (heaven) is also still future (Rev. 21). So for now, even on the spiritual side of life, things are temporary until the final judgments and new creations are finished.

As a real event, this story provides us with real learning about what happens immediately after death, what it looks like and what the awareness of life is like after leaving this part of life. So, for my part, I treat this story as an historical event.

Notice that the two parts have names: Hades being the place of punishment and Abraham's side being the good place. Why Abraham's side? I can only guess that God's redemptive purpose was tied into the promise to Abraham. Though the promise of redemption goes back to the Fall, it is at God's call to Abraham that the plan of redemption is mentioned in detail. The promise to Abraham was the object of faith in God for many generations of Israel's history. Today the object of faith is the Gospel of Christ. Anyway, God calls the good place, Abraham's bosom, or "At Abraham's Side."

Notice that Abraham knows about the law of Moses and the prophets. You wonder by that if Abe was able to hear or view some of that history.

Notice that the response of the man in Hades is concern for his brothers. We often feel very uncomfortable talking about Christ and commitment to God when an unbeliever has lost an equally unsaved loved one. I get that and there should be concern and tact. But in reality, that lost person who has just stepped into reality, and that being the place of punishment, is consumed with begging that someone will go to that other person on this side of life and tell them about Christ. What shocking reality! Not only is heaven cheering us on to share the Gospel of Christ, but hell is rooting for us, too, and maybe with more emotion and desperation.

Notice that if a person will not accept the Word, they will not be impressed by miracles. Think about what we’ve read in Deuteronomy. So much of that was true and inspiring for us as believers. What Moses said there was the essence of following God in faith for any generation of people on this earth. The Pharisees put their hope in Moses, but as Jesus told them in John 5:45-47, "Do not think that I shall accuse you to the Father; it is Moses who accuses you, on whom you set your hope. If you believed Moses, you would believe me, for he wrote of me. But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe my words?"

The same goes for miracles. I remember saying, "If God shows me something, then I'll believe." Not so. The preaching of the Word is sufficient and goes to the heart and soul. If people will not believe what God has said, they will not be moved by miracles. We've seen that the miracles of God bringing Israel out of Egypt and the miracles of His daily provision didn't do much for them.

Luke 17:1-4

Jesus was still thinking about the pride of the Pharisees, how they were like the rich man and made faith and acceptance very difficult for the needy, like Lazarus, tax collectors and sinners. These "little ones" are those in need of redemption like the tax collectors and sinners who had been drawing near to Jesus to hear the Word. The word for sin, means "to stumble." I was reading Romans 14 and 15 this morning, and not making people stumble was a big part of what the Spirit said through Paul. And when you get to the end of Romans, it says in Romans 16:17-18, "I appeal to you, brethren, to take note of those who create dissensions and difficulties, in opposition to the doctrine which you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by fair and flattering words they deceive the hearts of the simple-minded." The word "difficulties" means a stumbling block.

Jesus was warning the disciples about this problem and Paul was fighting against it in churches.

V. 3 seems to be Jesus warning His disciples not to be like the Pharisees, holding prejudices and grudges that make it hard for people to come to God and find His acceptance. Jesus tells the disciples that they are to forgive and thereby not give people cause to stumble in their steps with or toward God. Notice what Paul says to Timothy and how that sounds like this: 2 Timothy 2:24 And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kindly to every one, an apt teacher, forbearing, 25 correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant that they will repent and come to know the truth, 26 and they may escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will.

This gentle spirit, willing to forgive and be patient with the aggressive, sinning and frustrating, was something that Jesus was trying to ingrain in His disciples, and something Paul knew Timothy needed. And, hey, I need it too.

Notice that if the conditions are met, Jesus commands, "you must forgive him." I take it that the rejection of this person would cause the stumbling.

Vs. 5-10 It seems that with this command, Jesus pushed the disciples to realize He was asking something of them that was impossible for them to do emotionally. In fact, it was beyond their faith. So they asked Him for the faith to trust Him in order to do what He commanded.

In this context, where Jesus has just talked about forgiving in a complicated situation, it is interesting that He uses the illustration of a mulberry tree. As I understand it, they make a very dense and complicated network of roots. I know from living in Texas, that if you had clay or cast iron sewer piping, and you had a mulberry tree in the yard, the pipes were full of roots.

Jesus is saying that even the tiniest amount of faith would cause, in this image, the tree to rise up and this complicated root system to release and unravel. Of course, if you do this, remember that in cities there is often restricted airspace around international airports so be careful of how high you throw the tree through the air into the sea. Just a helpful suggestion. J So the promise of faith is that the most impossible thing and the most complicated relationships can be overcome with faith.

Vs. 7-10 Now comes the faith itself, and how simple. Faith is increased simply by obeying with gratefulness, without questioning or thought as to what we deserve. We think our service for God is above and beyond the call of duty, but it's not. I struggle with this all the time, but I'm inspired by this example. In light of all that we've been given as disciples, our salvation, the Spirit, and eternity with Christ, our work in the harvest is nothing and we are unworthy servants and have only done what was required of us.

I know that it might be hard to see this, but this actually ends this section of teaching that began with tax collectors and sinners coming to hear Jesus in Luke 15:1. The harvest is important to Jesus and a disciple needs to be able to extend the grace and forgiveness of Christ, not as a conceptual message, but as his living experience and passion in knowing his Lord.

Psalm 83

Vs. 1-8 It's hard to know when this was written. At the destruction of Jerusalem, many of the neighboring nations were happy and were judged by God for their acts during that time. I have the sense this might have been when the Assyrians were threatening Jerusalem and the surrounding nations were hoping that Judah would be taken captive.

Notice the references to chapters 4-8 in the book of Judges. That period of time was a time when the neighboring nations made frequent "shopping trips" to Israel.

Vs. 9-18 The psalmist cries out to God to save them like He did during the days of the Judges.

Notice the crying out. Earlier in the year, most of the psalms were the "crying out" kind. You might conclude that by the mere frequency of those kinds of psalms, that should be our normal state before God: asking, seeking, knocking.

V. 18 The desire is that the nations would know the Lord. If this psalm was written regarding the Assyrian threat to Jerusalem, God decimated the Assyrian army. The world was stunned and every nation knew there was a God in Jerusalem.

Proverbs 13:4

What occurs to me reading this is the difference between knowing God's will and doing it. We may need to question what His direction for us is, but we don't need to ask what our sense of interest and energy should be once we know. Diligence is a response of faith and love.

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.

April 13, 2012 Reading Notes

April 13, 2012 Reading Notes

http://www.esvbible.org/devotions/every-day-in-the-word/

Yesterday, after Israel took (was given) Jericho, Joshua (6:26) cursed anyone who attempted to rebuild Jericho. Now, you don't have to go looking for it now, but as you read through the OT this year, you will unexpectedly find the guy who ordered the rebuilding of Jericho and what happened to the builder who did the work. This is why reading through the Bible is fun. You find stuff, and the Spirit makes all sorts of connections for you. It is always better when you find something on your own and get that "kick" of excitement. That's the kind of joy and motivation that stays with you and it energizes your teaching and your sharing. The truth actually becomes a part of you.

Yesterday we witnessed a national disaster for Israel. In 7:5 it says that all of the people were disheartened by the defeat and loss of men at Ai. In contrast to how Israel was before, you don't see everyone at their tent doors weeping and ready to stone Joshua.

Joshua prayed and cried out to God, but God sort of says to him, "What are you doing? Get up off your face. Obviously the people sinned." The people and Joshua were to learn an important lesson. If they were defeated, it was because of sin. It meant there was something wrong with them, not God.

Joshua 7:16-9:2

Joshua 7:16-26

V. 16 When it says that Judah was taken, I'm guessing a tribal leader stood before the priest and the priest rolled the Urim and the Thummim and the result showed if a man was to be selected or not.

You can imagine Achan standing there watching his nightmare come true as the people were whittled down to his tribe, his clan, his family, his household, and finally he's standing nose to nose with Joshua, who I think was a rather imposing dude.

Vs. 24 and 25 are pretty fearful verses. The innocent were immediately with God and enjoying it. The hard reality is, even today, that the sins of the fathers (and mothers) harm the children, even in Christian homes.

V. 26 God's anger was satisfied. Now imagine that this is what happened to Jesus. God just kept heaping it on until He was totally punished in our place. When Jesus had paid every last penalty for us, you could quote part of verse 26 in that, "God turned away from His burning anger" toward all who are covered by the blood of the Lamb.

One more thought from yesterday. God told Joshua that as long as the “devoted” thing was among the people of Israel, He couldn’t be among the people of Israel. It just makes me wonder how many things I’ve let into my life that have distracted me from loving Jesus and following Him in the harvest. He never leaves us, but as long as we have something besides Him, it weakens His ability to speak to us and it keeps us from fully abiding and loving Him. More about that in Luke.

Joshua 8

Vs. 1-2 God totally affirmed that He would give Joshua victory at Ai. Joshua is one of the few guys in the Bible who has no mark against him. Moses and David were both murderers. Not that I’m looking for something bad, but this is the first time I’ve seen that although Joshua didn’t do anything bad, he didn’t always ask God first before he did stuff. There was no mention of him asking God before he sent the spies to Jericho.
That worked out fine. He never consulted God before the defeat at Ai. That would have been a good idea. Apparently, like us, Joshua had things to learn, even in his 80s.

Notice that God allowed them to take the plunder. Achan should have waited.

Vs. 3-23 I find it interesting that God turned the entire situation around so that it made Israel's defeat look like a cleaver ploy to get the city to empty out, leaving it defenseless from the rear.

Vs. 24-29 This is Joshua and his leadership. Notice that like Moses holding the staff back when Joshua fought, Joshua wouldn’t put down his javelin. He was devoted to the Lord and to his men.

Notice in verse 29 that Joshua made an example of the king of Ai. He will do this to other kings, but what he does here is interesting. In Deut. 21:23 it says, "... for a hanged man is accursed by God."

This curse of hanging a man before God is what the Father did to His Son for us.

Vs. 30-35 Now that Israel has taken the two fortress cities that guarded the road from the valley of the Jordan into the hill country, it was time to fulfill what God had commanded them to do. They themselves had already experienced the emotions of blessing and curse and knew the terrible effects of the curse. I’ll bet their experience with Achan, when God left them for that battle, made this event much more intense and real.

This is the ceremony that the Lord commanded Israel to carry out: the blessings and the curses. The way this was organized with the ark in the middle was really cool.

The Bible Knowledge Commentary OT, page 347, adds that Joshua had to move the nation 30 miles to get to the place God said this ceremony was to take place.

I've never seen before that Joshua wrote on the stones and that he copied it from his own copy that he himself had written. Joshua was not a king, but fulfilled one of the requirements of a king by making his own copy of the law and reading it every day. The BKC mentions that they have found other monuments where documents three times longer than Deuteronomy were inscribed.

This was a long event that could have gone days and weeks. Notice verse 35. Everyone was present to hear the law. Joshua's strength was in fulfilling the law and all that was commanded him.

Joshua 9:1-2

While Israel was on its pilgrimage, devoting its heart to the spiritual rather than the military, apparently all the kings of the land thought it was a good time to mount an offensive against the worshiping nation. But not everyone was spiritually irrational and wanted to fight, as we'll see tomorrow. Those who seek, find.

Luke 16:1-18

Vs. 1- 9 So, imagine there is a connection between this chapter and the past chapter. What would it be?

I'll make a suggestion. Jesus was in conflict with the Pharisees over the question of reaching out to sinners. When Jesus told the parables of the lost sheep, coin and son, He was really teaching His disciples, because the Pharisees weren't open anyway. All three of the parables involve things of value, but spiritual value rather than earthly value. You see this particularly in the father talking with the elder brother. The Pharisees were rich. It was one of the ways you joined the club. And actually, the disciples were rich by biblical standards, since they had food for several days and had several changes of clothes. But they were also rich in something else, and that needed to be shared.

Now if we put what Jesus is saying here, together with what He said elsewhere about seeking the kingdom first and selling everything and having treasure in heaven, you understand Jesus is telling them to use all of their resources for the kingdom. What I find interesting here is that the steward got everyone squared up with the master and decreased their debt so it was paid up. So you have two elements to how the steward used his last days of influence: People paid up their debts and they were in good standing with the master. I guess, applying it to us, we should be using our resources so people can trust Christ (who paid their debt) so they can be forgiven and in good standing with God.

Jesus is not telling the disciples to be generous if they have a lot to be generous with. He is telling them to use all of the resources God gives them shrewdly to help people come to Him. As we’ll see later, the disciples were poor and getting poorer, but they were beginning to understand what real spiritual values and riches looked like. In this case, it meant paying a price to be with tax collectors and sinners.

Vs. 10-13 Here is a clear application. It didn’t matter how much they had or gave, it was their faithfulness with a very little that counted. Notice the promises in verses 11 and 12.

We’ve seen verse 13 before in the Sermon on the Mount. I think it was a standard part of Jesus’ teaching to His disciples. I still don’t think I take this as seriously as Jesus meant it.

Vs. 10-15 The Pharisees who objected to Jesus’ association with tax collectors and sinners were still present. As Jesus was telling His disciples that God does measure our faith by our faithfulness to Him in using the resources we've been given, the Pharisees must have been scoffing audibly. When He told the disciples they couldn’t possibly serve God and money, the Pharisees were convinced that it was not only possible, but that they were doing it. The Pharisees were justifying themselves; because, generally speaking, they were generous in tithing, although they did it publicly for their own appearance and recognition. Remember, the idea of riches is about what a person values.

Vs. 16-18 Jesus changed the direction of the discussion and got the Pharisees on a point they couldn't deny they were at fault. They felt they were teachers of the people and the compliance officers of the law. They "forced their way" into the kingdom, trying to make the law conform to them, stretching truths to make themselves acceptable. But Jesus said that not even the punctuation of the law could be perverted. It would always stay the same regardless of how they reinterpreted it for themselves.

Then Jesus got the Pharisees on adultery. They had engineered the law to allow divorce for burned toast, pretty much like today. Divorce was so commonplace in those days that later when Jesus told another group of Pharisees that God was against divorce, even Jesus' disciples were “amazed and greatly astonished,” and said in Matthew 19:10, "If this is the situation between a husband and wife, it is better not to marry.""

In Jewish society it was a man's world. If a wife was out of place, divorce was easy. This is how the Pharisees were using their wealth and position to give them treasure on earth. Their riches and values had to do with manipulating the law for their own gain. You’ll see this in the parable tomorrow of the rich man and Lazarus. Again, this ties back to the issue of tax collectors and sinners, Lazarus being that needy, but rejected person. Anyway, the Pharisees probably weren't making noises now.

Psalm 82

So, what's going on here? It looks like God could be referring to the angelic hosts, but looking at the rest of the psalm shows you that God is talking primarily to the leaders of Israel. Yet, even in the two references we have to Satan and his fall (Isaiah 14:12, Ezekiel 28:12), his description is taken from the description of the king of Babylon and king of Tyre, and given such language that makes it obvious to us that God has now begun to talk about the fallen angel, whose arrogance was similar to the human judges being described. It could be that the references to "sons of the most high" and "princes" could be shadows, in a secondary sense, of angelic authorities, since "sons of God" (in Job 2:1) and "prince of Persia" (in Daniel 10:20) are both titles that refer to angels. If, in fact, the angels had a guardianship to serve and guide mankind, they perverted it and did not guide anyone to honor God by giving justice and protection.

Vs. 1-5 The main meaning is to the leaders of Israel. The people needed godly leadership, but the leaders then, like the Pharisees in Jesus’ day, misled the people and served themselves.

Vs. 6-8 They had a privilege to serve and guide the people. Think of men like Moses and the elders he appointed under him who were given a portion of his spirit (spiritual enabling) to serve before the people and give them justice. The fact that these judges and leaders had the Word of God made them like gods. They were given the truth and “power” to direct people in God’s way. That is why God can refer to them figuratively as "gods," mighty ones. Jesus refers to verse 6 in John10:34. Even Jesus' usage there has a twist to it, because in referring to this psalm, He is standing before leaders of the people who have led the people astray. Jesus’ point was that if they who had been given the Word were called “gods,” how could they say He was blaspheming when the Father had consecrated Him and sent Him into the world?

As reflected in this psalm, as Israel settled into the land, they strayed from God and were led by many who did not honor God. The prophets brought God's judgments upon the leaders who misled the people. As we go on through the year, we'll find many portions of Scripture like this in the OT. One that I'll use here is a good one that eventually promises the Messiah.

Jeremiah 23:1 "Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture!" says the LORD. 2 Therefore thus says the LORD, the God of Israel, concerning the shepherds who care for my people: "You have scattered my flock, and have driven them away, and you have not attended to them. Behold, I will attend to you for your evil doings, says the LORD. 3 Then I will gather the remnant of my flock out of all the countries where I have driven them, and I will bring them back to their fold, and they shall be fruitful and multiply. 4 I will set shepherds over them who will care for them, and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall any be missing, says the LORD. 5 "Behold, the days are coming, says the LORD, when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, and he shall reign as king and deal wisely, and shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. 6 In his days Judah will be saved, and Israel will dwell securely. And this is the name by which he will be called: `The LORD is our righteousness.'

Proverbs 13:2-3

V. 2 A man’s mouth is seen in contrast to the person who is treacherous. A treacherous person uses his mouth to trick or mislead people, but in relating to people in that way his inner life if full of turmoil and violence. The good man eats what is good because he uses his mouth to encourage and enrich others honestly.

V. 3 This is the obvious corollary and a good reason to honor the Lord with our mouths.

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.

April 12, 2012 Reading Notes, The last post from Sheridan Bridge.

April 12, 2012 Reading Notes

http://www.esvbible.org/devotions/every-day-in-the-word/

It finally hit me today reading about Israel crossing into the land, that the waters of the Jordan didn't recede until the priests' feet were in the water. Talk about making your faith work to the last possible second. God could have started lowering the level as the priest approached, but no, they had to trust Him to the point of doubt, getting their feet wet. It makes me think of Jesus telling Peter to put out into the deep and let down the nets for a catch. Peter says they couldn't catch a fish all night long, but at His word Peter obeyed. And then it says, "And when they had done this, they enclosed a large shoal of fish so that the nets began to break." In both situations, the priests and Peter, it wasn't until they had done it, that the miracle kicked in. As disciples following Jesus in the harvest, this ought to tell us something.

Joshua 5:1-7:15

Joshua 5

Vs. 1 So, if the kings of the land had melting heart syndrome, they must also have had "stiff-necked and not very smart" syndrome. If Israel's God could do all that they knew He did in Egypt or at the Jordan, what chance did they think they had? There should have been "for sale" signs going up all over Canaan.

It was also a good thing they were in no mood for a fight, because Israel's soldiers were not in any shape to fight back.

Vs. 2-9 Keep this place, Gilgal, in mind for later. This is where the stone monument would have been set up. It will be important in Judges 3.

This entire section shows us what we might have guessed at, but didn't fully realize. When Israel rebelled at Kadesh-barnea, God broke off the Mosaic Covenant with them. His promise to Abraham was still guiding things toward this moment, but some things were stopped. Since Kadesh-barnea none of their male children had been circumcised. This wasn't neglect on the part of the people or Moses. Moses of all people should have known how important circumcision was since he almost died by not circumcising his son. This must have been a directive by God. God was looking ahead to this moment when He would lead a new generation into Canaan. Circumcision will mean something to these people. It was the symbol of the promise to Abraham. By going through this, every man would know he was participating in that covenant. This generation of Israel is probably the most godly group of people who ever followed the Lord.

Vs. 8-9 This is God's explanation to them. In Egypt, the people were forbidden to circumcise their children. Apparently only people high in society could be circumcised as a sign of their position. The Hebrews were slaves, and reproached as such, and therefore forbidden to be circumcised. Bible Knowledge Commentary OT, page 337.

V. 10 Here is another surprise. An uncircumcised man could not participate in the Passover. They had not celebrated a Passover since Kadesh-barnea. This means that this is only the third Passover that Israel has held. They had the original Passover, they had a Passover at Mt. Sinai, and the next would have been held in Canaan if they had obeyed. Many people in this generation have only heard of the Passover.

Vs. 11-12 It is interesting that on the day after the Passover, the manna stopped. The Feast of Unleavened Bread followed the Passover and for this feast they gleaned grain from the fields. Some of these people didn't know anything but the manna. I wonder if they felt bad that this had ended and years later reminisced about the wonder of it. It sort of makes you wonder which miracles and provisions of this time on earth are being overlooked and taken for granted. When this darkness is all over, we might appreciate what a wonder it was that we were indwelt with the Spirit and had the Word as a daily resource. Maybe we'll wonder, too, why we didn't take more advantage of these very special and amazing privileges.

Vs. 13-15 Joshua must have had guts. He apparently recognized the "man" as an angel, but didn't know what kind (good or bad) he was. So, he challenged him anyway. What a guy.

Since Joshua was by Jericho, he probably went to look at the challenge of how Israel, without materials or experience taking a fortified city, could wage war here. With those thoughts in his mind this angel appeared. Joshua realized that this person was in command of the battle for Jericho, not him. Joshua was the servant.

By the way, who was that angel? Hint: You're not allowed to worship angels. Revelation 19:9 And the angel said to me, "Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb." And he said to me, "These are true words of God." 10 Then I fell down at his feet to worship him, but he said to me, "You must not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brethren who hold the testimony of Jesus. Worship God." For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.

I wonder what Jesus thought, years later, walking through the city He Himself had led Israel to conquer?

Joshua 6

So, what things do you notice here and what speaks to you as a disciple?

The biggest lesson for me is that God demands faith, and thereby strengthens our faith. I've heard people go overboard trying to explain why they went around the city 7 times, trying to find significance in "7." There might be something there. I don't know. But I do know that the entire process was "out there." It wasn't normal. It didn't make sense. There was nothing externally smart or wise or crafty or military about what they did. But it was wise to listen to God, and they did. We get so used to only doing the "smart" thing, that we forget to walk by faith. If faith is included in the equation, then the smart thing might look stupid in the eyes of the world. As disciples, we know God and understand life & reality in a way that is different than everyone around us. It will make us look like fools. As Jim Elliot said, "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep, to gain what he cannot lose." Jim Elliot and four other guys gave their lives to follow Christ into the harvest.

Vs. 1-14 One thing about the way God did it was that the people couldn't take any of the credit for this. A city like Jericho could have withstood a siege for months. God's way only took a week.

Vs. 15-21 It seems that Joshua gave these instructions just before the men yelled. Notice that special care is given to protect Rahab. Notice too that all the people of Jericho were called to stand before God for judgment. That meant they would all have to be separated from the body to stand in His presence. The killing of the animals might have had some religious significance and or it was for Israel and the other nations to see that God's judgment was total. Also, all of the precious metals were to go into the treasury, almost as a memorial to this first victory. This kind of total ban on taking anything would only happen here, so if the men were patient, they would get stuff at other cities.

Vs. 22-25 Again, these are special instructions about Rahab and her family. They would have to be taken outside of the camp until they were cleansed, the men circumcised, and then they would become part of the community of faith. Her faith was already evident. This was an exception to God's rule of not including any of the Canaanites. But God's mercy always extends to faith in action and we'll see another exception in chapter 9.

Vs. 26-27 We can assume it was the Spirit speaking through Joshua to pronounce this curse. Believe it or not the most evil of the kings of Israel, the northern kingdom, will rebuild Jericho and this curse will be fulfilled.

Joshua 7

Vs. 1-15 It's too bad they didn't include the entire chapter for today.

There are a few things that stand out to me.

First, Achan becomes the symbol of how one man's sin has an impact on others. Perhaps it was good that something like this happened right away. It became a permanent lesson to that generation of people. Phinehas will mention this again at the end of Joshua. Notice in verse 5 that 36 men died as a result of what Achan did. That was tragic. Families suffered and children lost their fathers. On the other hand, good does come out of this. The guys were safe with God in heaven and chillin', and this becomes a tremendous example to the nation. After this, you can bet they were holding one another responsible to obey the Lord.

You very seldom hear anyone say that our individual walk with the Lord is important to the work we are doing together in the harvest. It is.

Second, in the next conquest, God is going to allow them to collect plunder. Achan should have just waited.

Third, God will use this entire situation for good. Not only do the people get a great lesson, but the nations surrounding Israel will now get arrogant. This arrogance will actually help Israel make quick work of the main strength of the opposition. In everything, God works for good with those who love Him. God will turn this small defeat into a military strategy to defeat Ai.

Luke 15

This section is rich with lessons for us as disciples. So, why do you think Jesus makes the same point with three different stories? What is the same in each? How does the image get enlarged in each?

I do want to mention one thing before I begin here. These three parables do not stand alone. This section of teaching will continue to Luke 17:10. Because we are reading smaller sections, it is hard to see the continuity, so as you go from one section to the next, look for the flow of the teaching and how it all holds together.

Vs. 1-2 This is the occasion and reason for Jesus teaching on the lost sheep, lost coin and lost son. Now, if you look at Luke 17:1-4, you will see the conclusion of all of this teaching and all of these parables. To deny anyone forgiveness was a sin.

Vs. 3-7 Notice that He doesn't love the lost sheep more than the others, but there is an outpouring of mercy, compelled because of the need. Notice too that the neighbors and friends are invited to rejoice. And of course, there is rejoicing in heaven. That happens now too.

Vs. 8-10 Here, even the angels of God rejoice. The other ones, no so much.

Vs. 11-16 There are good lessons here on how the Father allows us to have our way. Love cannot be compelled. It should be a warning to us when God allows us to prosper in our sin.

Vs. 17-24 Notice that it was hardship that caused the son to come to himself. Neither the father nor anyone else bailed him out. And he knew the door was open to return to his father. There is true repentance here.

V. 21 Although the father cut him off and didn't let him finish, he heard enough and knew there was genuine repentance. His words are so interesting, "he was dead and is alive again."

Vs. 25-32 Enter the older brother, with whom I can identify unfortunately. Notice what his concern was. It was the fatted calf. He never got one. The father pointed him to the spiritual reality. It wasn't about stuff, it was about life and salvation.

And to think, as we work in the harvest we meet these prodigal sons and can tell them the Father is waiting if they are ready to turn to Him. And when we help them come to the Father, there is joy. It is pretty cool to think that there was rejoicing and joy in heaven the day you gave your life to Christ. This is a way that we create joy and celebration in heaven, by working in the harvest, making disciples.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9qGXOVPw4uU

Psalm 81

Because you have read the books of Moses, you will understand this psalm so much better. Most commentators think this psalm is recording celebration of the Feast of Booths. If so, that pinpoints it to Nehemiah 8:14-18. This son of Asaph was writing after the exile, celebrating the first Feast of Booths since the death of Joshua.

Vs. 1-3 This is to be a joyous celebration because God is their strength.

Vs. 4-10 God made this feast a statute, so Israel would always remember how God sustained them in the wilderness living in tents. He freed them from slavery and did the impossible by keeping them alive. Just think, they were supposed to have celebrated this every year for the past 800 years and never did it.

There is a lot of wilderness history here.

Vs. 11-16 Once in the land, the people didn't listen to God. Ironically, not holding the Feast of Booths was a case in point. God was the one who freed them, but once free they didn't need him.

Notice how there is an exhortation here that if people will listen to Him, He will forgive and bless them. This portion reads a lot like Isaiah 55.

Proverbs 13:1

Does the father's instruction also contain rebuke? It looks that way from the parallelism. Rebuke sounds negative to us, but God commands it.

2 Timothy 4:1 I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: 2 preach the word, be urgent in season and out of season, convince, rebuke, and exhort, be unfailing in patience and in teaching.

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.

April 11, 2012 Reading Notes

April 11, 2012 Reading Notes

http://www.esvbible.org/devotions/every-day-in-the-word/

Joshua 3-4

Joshua 3

Vs. 1-6 There is something in this I've never seen before. According to the Bible Knowledge Commentary, Joshua moved the entire nation seven miles and they camped out near the Jordan. They moved those seven miles, with no clue as to how they were going to cross the Jordan. It was March, just before the Passover, and apparently the snow from Mt. Hermon in the north was melting and the river was overflowing its banks. This shows how much the people had changed and what God had been doing in them for 40 years. This generation of Israelites might have been the godliest generation that ever represented the nation. They didn't complain and make problems when faced with "impossible" circumstances. They simply followed and waited. Now they waited three days, getting organized, but waiting for God's provision.

As disciples, following isn't easy, and that's why many don't follow in the harvest. What if God doesn't do His part? Why get so "uncomfortable" for nothing? God will love us anyway. But it is only in sacrifice, following, depending and waiting in this harvest that we really get close to God. It is in the impossible that we see His power and bear fruit for God. But it all comes down to faith and following, absolutely convinced that even a "dead end" has meaning and will lead somewhere. It didn't make sense that God led 2 million + people to the edge of a swollen river. But He did. It doesn't make sense for us to follow from day to day without security, for the sake of the Kingdom and for the harvest and the Lord. But we do. And if we have a very big God, we don't have to complain.

Philippians 2:13-16 for God is at work in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, …..

V. 4 Notice that the people had to keep a distance from the ark. It symbolized the presence of God, and although all they could see was the priests carrying something draped in ornate skins, they knew to respect it.

Vs. 7-13 All of these people had only known Moses' leadership and many had never seen what happened at the Red Sea. They would all enter the land of promise with a unique sign that would show them the certainty of God's presence and the authority of Joshua.

Vs. 14-17 There were a couple of miracles here. Not only did the water gather far north, but the river bed dried up quickly. If the Levites holding the ark were in the middle of the river, and the people had to keep a distance of 3000 feet, it must have been a crossing that took place for miles on each side of the ark. It might also have been a miracle for the priests to have stood there with those poles digging into their shoulders, waiting for 2 million people to go across the Jordan.

This was not only a big day for Joshua, but also for the priests representing God and leading the people.

Joshua 4

There are a lot of things that can feed your heart in this passage. How incredible that God fulfilled this incredible promise. They were in the Land.

Vs. 1-10 Notice the monuments for remembrance that God had the people make. One was in the middle of the Jordan and the other was where they camped on that first night in the Land. I don't think God is into "scrapbooking," but He does go for remembrance and education of the next generation. What items of remembrance do you have at home, in your family, in your office, that remind you of God's faithfulness? It is something that disciple makers / leaders do for a group as you work together in the harvest making disciples who make disciples. I have a couple of "stones of remembrance" in my office right now that remind me of God doing great things when it seemed like the doors were shut.

By the way, those stones that Israel moved were big stones. Those guys must have been strong, or were made strong in a way they didn't realize. I have carried natural stones for landscaping that were about two ft long and one ft high and one ft thick and they were herniatingly heavy. A pile of 12 of those wouldn't have made much of a monument. I think that God must have given these guys superhuman strength. Also, If Joshua set up 12 stones that could be seen when the river was still flooded, how big were those stones?

Vs. 11-14 The 2.5 tribes went first, fully armed and looking ready for a rumble. If the Canaanites had planned a surprise party, the river going dry and the appearance of these guys would have given them second thoughts. By the way, you can bet there were people somewhere watching this happen. This gave the new generation a sense of awe, both of God and of Joshua.

Vs. 15-18 What an awesome moment. After all those years since Jacob left Canaan for Egypt, Israel is finally, completely, back in the land.

Vs. 19-24 are really great verses and 23-24 explain something important in our own lives. God leads us through tough times, so that when He delivers us, He can use His work in our lives as an example to others. He strengthens our faith in following and shows others that He is mighty so that we might fear and love the Lord forever.

Luke 14:7-35

I don't think Jesus was picking a fight here. I believe He might have received an impulse from the Spirit as He observed how vain and petty these important people were.

Vs. 7-11 It appears that when Jesus was invited to a party by a Pharisee, He was a real party-pooper. Talk about having guts. Anyway, these lessons were for the twelve, and for us as His disciples. If you live your life to receive the recognition of men, you cannot be a disciple. In another conflict with the Pharisees, Jesus said to them in John 5:44, "How can you believe, who receive glory from one another and do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?" I think that verse puts this section together pretty well. They looked to each other for recognition, but in the parable, when invited by God, well, they were busy.

Vs. 12-14 And He had a special lesson for the host. Apparently his goal in inviting some of these people was to receive from them.

In both of these parables, Jesus is teaching His disciples something He has explained before; that is, if your treasure is in heaven, you can live and serve down here with reckless abandon, without anxiousness and without the need to win approval from others.

Vs. 15-24 This looks like someone tried to change the subject or get Jesus to say the "amen" to his statement. Verse 16 shows that Jesus was rebutting what this man said. Apparently it was assumed in what this guy said, that they would all get to heaven, so why should Jesus take all of this so seriously. This fits together with what Jesus said yesterday about striving to get into heaven now, while the opportunity presented itself. These people who were invited took this all too casually. This earth is about life and death.

Vs. 25-35 It almost seems to me that Jesus was walking later and thinking of all that had happened. He realized that most of the people following Him had no clue how humanly difficult it was to come to Him.

Vs. 26-27 To follow Jesus would require such an allegiance to Him that it would take total priority over every other relationship. Following Jesus would mean willingly going to your death.

Vs. 28-32 I think these stories are given to get people to want to follow Him, and to do it with a serious understanding. Even today, people become believers and remain at a place in their lives of casual commitment. They love church and worship and pot-lucks. They'll even become missionary tourists and paint a building in Haiti. That is not the same as living a disciplined life of death and denial on earth everyday to follow Christ, to reach the lost and to make disciples who make disciples.

V. 33 This is the point of all that Jesus has said. I think "all" means "all."

Vs. 34-35 A disciple is supposed to be different and make a difference.

The video below is Steve Camp's "Consider the Cost." This is a great song and one that kept me motivated (thanks Euro-Corp 94 and Helena) during one of the hardest years of my life following Christ. Actually, it would be fair to say that the Spirit used this song to heal my heart. There were dark hours when I'm sure I shed a bucket of tears listening to this description of what it means to follow Christ in the harvest. There is a very simple explanation of the Gospel in this song, which is definitely expressed in this section of Luke, and that I hope is being expressed more and more as I mature in Christ in the harvest.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8InK4-Jjgqo

Psalm 80

This looks like another post-exile psalm. This psalm echoes what Moses / God said would happen. The people would be removed from the land because of their sin. The appeal made to God is to His faithfulness and His glory, to remember His promise to their fathers.

This psalm breaks down nicely into three parts each concluded by the appeal and refrain of the psalm.

Vs. 1-3 God saved Israel from death by sending Joseph into slavery in Egypt. Remember how Benjamin played a part in this story. When God raised up Joseph, He gave Joe two sons who became tribes in Israel. Then comes the refrain.

Vs. 4-7 But now after their disobedience and exile God seems to be ignoring them and their enemies laugh at them. Then comes the refrain.

Vs. 8-19 God brought them out of Egypt and planted them like a vineyard with a wall. But in verse 12 God broke down their walls, because of the sin of Israel, and allowed wild animals to ravage the vineyard. In verse 17 the psalmist asks for "the son of man" to come and help them and lead them to restoration. I think that is prophetic, looking ahead to Jesus. When they call on Jesus in those final days, the glory of His face will shine upon them.

It is also interesting to find portions of Scripture that inspired songs. I missed mentioning one in Matthew 9:28, when Jesus asks the two blind men if they thought He could heal them. They said to Him, "Yes, Lord." You know what song that's in, right?

The main appeal of this psalm, I think, is responsible for the title and first verse of this song. This is a video where you will definitely enjoy the images. And it's a very good song.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QoYdQa6Cprc

Proverbs 12:27-28

I agree with the other reading of verse 27. Diligence is the reward that makes a man rich. And to make the connection to verse 28, the righteous are diligent to live following the Spirit, following Christ, in His Word, in His harvest, making disciples who make disciples.

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.

April 10, 2012 Reading Notes

April 10, 2012 Reading Notes

http://www.esvbible.org/devotions/every-day-in-the-word/

Deuteronomy 34

It is obvious reading this that the writer was probably Joshua.

Vs. 1-4 The Lord showed Moses the land. He couldn't have seen all of this territory from Mt. Nebo, even on a clear day. The fact that God promised it to Abraham is an assurance to Moses that even after he is gone, God will continue to lead Israel into the land.

Vs. 5-8 One question here is why God hid the gravesite. The standard, and probably correct, answer is that if Israel would have known where the body was, they would have brought it with them and made a shrine to Moses, possibly a place of worship.

V. 7 Apparently God kept Moses from wearing out, meaning on the other hand, that when we wear out, it is because God lets us. I think of Isaac losing his sight so early in his life, thinking he was going to die and then living another 40 years. If I had my choice, I'd go like Moses, but I don't think God will consult me and His choice will be for His glory, not mine. I'd still like to go out with my boots on.

I find it interesting that Joshua is described as being full of the Spirit. It says spirit of wisdom, but we can guess it was Holy Spirit enabled wisdom. In the OT it doesn't mean Joshua was permanently indwelt by the Spirit (that couldn't happen until Christ), but the Holy Spirit was close to him, guiding him. Also, what is the spirit of wisdom? God gave wisdom to the men who built the tabernacle. It was that same sense of order and creativity and insight that was with God as He created the universe.

Vs. 10-12 It is also interesting that the miracles are mentioned as "deeds of terror." That is our language struggling to express the Hebrew. The signs created a sense of amazement and fear and awe. As awesome as that was, sin trumps wonders. All the people older than nineteen who saw those miracles, and followed Moses out of the land, were overthrown in the wilderness by their sin.

Jesus is the prophet "like Moses" who has come to lead Israel and all of mankind. In Jesus' short time on earth he did more wonders. Moses knew God like a friend, but Jesus knows God as Father. As for the "deeds of terror," wait until the Lamb begins to open the seals on that book. Moses was used to show Egypt the fear of God for a few months. Jesus will introduce a seven-year "sound and light" show on earth that will get everyone's notice. And those who follow Jesus will be led in the Spirit to the Father and true rest.

Joshua 1-2

Joshua 1

Vs. 1-9 This is a great section of Scripture; God's first address to Joshua after Moses' death.

V. 2 Wouldn't you freak out if God told you to get two million people to do anything? This is that spirit of wisdom working in Joshua. In Joshua's head, thanks to the Spirit, this was a piece of cake.

V. 4 God would begin to give this land to Israel. In Joshua we'll see God break the military power of Canaan. After that, it would have been easy for the people to go to God and then take more and more of the land. That means that the second phase of the conquest would have been easy, but contingent on their obedience. And there is the rub. They didn't obey or seek God. The full ownership of the land will come during the Millennial Kingdom of Christ.

Note how often God tells Joshua to be strong and courageous.

If you have never memorized verse 8, this would be a great time. In fact, instead of doing just verse 8, memorize 5-9.

V. 8 Should we be any different? Joshua was to read Deuteronomy daily, meditating on it day and night. But do you see that he was supposed to speak of it? In order to speak of it, he had to be totally submerged in God's heart and thoughts.

Vs. 10-18 I get inspired reading what the Reubenites, Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh said to Joshua. Why do you think they close their message to him with, "Only be strong and courageous?" This strength and courage were to have come from Joshua's own faith and confidence in God. I was reading about Jesus teaching His disciples, saying that a disciple is not above his teacher. It makes me think that those who lead others don't need to be perfect, but they should be strong and courageous in the couple of things we really need to be doing as we follow Christ in the harvest. Faith is contagious. So is doubt and hypocrisy.

Joshua 2

Vs. 1-7 It is interesting that there is no mention of a conversation with God regarding the spies. Joshua only sent out two spies. Tradition has it that one of these spies is the guy who married Rahab, Salmon (or Salma). In that case we know Salmon's father was Nashon. This would have made Salmon one of the prominent, godly leaders of Judah. I'll bet the other spy was from the tribe of Ephraim.

That the spies went to a prostitute almost gives the idea that they were like sailors finally hitting land and looking for a good time. Rahab was certainly a prostitute, but most likely she also ran an inn. They were looking for a place to stay. These guys would have been close to the Lord. The fact is, God is very insistent on telling us that she was a prostitute. Even back then, God was in the business of saving tax collectors and sinners.

Vs. 2-5 The entire city was on "red" alert for Israel. This is evident from them coming for the spies and Rahab's words.

V. 6 So why would Rahab risk her life like this?

Vs. 8-14 Now, what about the faith of Rahab? This is a little complicated, at least in our thinking, because she was a prostitute, a Canaanite woman who should have been killed, and she lies like a trooper (whatever that means). There is some tension in all of this. God not only shows her incredible mercy, but she marries Salmon (some think he's one of the spies), and through Rahab comes the entire Davidic line of kings and, eventually, the Messiah.

In my thinking, real faith has three parts: Information, Acceptance/Trust, and Doing.

Notice the information that Rahab had. It dates all the way back to the Red Sea, 40 years earlier. This means that on hearsay, she believed the entire story about Egypt and she was aware of Israel in the wilderness for the past 38 years.

She certainly believed and trusted this information. She mentions that she and everyone else (v.11) were shaking in their sandals. Rahab goes on to make the connection of all that Israel had done to the supremacy of their God. Look at verse 11. Wow.

What is interesting to me is that, to this point, everyone in Jericho went this far with what they believed. Rahab says that everyone knew this information and that they believed the information. So why was she saved.

Rahab risked her life to save the spies. She did something. Doing is what completes real faith. The demons believe in God and tremble (James 2:19). The demons had the right information, they really knew that God was there, but they made the wrong response. So did the people in Jericho. Rahab made the response of faith, honoring God. She may have lied, but she was also risking her life for God and these men who followed Him. Ends do not justify the means. She was an immature believer, but she was a believer.

The response of Jericho's city fathers was to pursue the spies to kill them. Bad choice. This showed their hearts. If they had approached Joshua with terms of peace, they would have been told there could be no peace and they would have had to move before Israel got there. If they really believed the stories they would have moved and saved their lives. They should have known they didn't have a chance.

This is why Rahab was saved. She had real, amazing faith. Everyone knew about the Red Sea, and Egypt and Sihon and Og and believed the truth of those stories. Everyone understood that Israel had an awesome God. Rahab personalized that information, and when given an unexpected opportunity by God, she did something. She honored God. And in spite of her past and fear and weakness, God honored her right back, hundredfold.

Vs. 15-21 It is also notable that the spies were close enough to the Lord to be able to make this kind of a deal with her. It showed something of their faith, too.

Notice that if her house was built into the city wall, God must have protected this part of the wall.

Vs. 22-24 These two spies, like two other spies 38 years ago, came back with a good honest report. Notice that even in this, God gave them an adventure and a story. I'll bet Joshua and the other leaders were sitting on the edge of, of, well, whatever they were sitting on, as the spies told this story. They would have been utterly convinced that the Lord was in this. That's cool of God to encourage us through these types of adventures. In the harvest you get lots of these.

Luke 13:22-14:6

Luke 13:22-35

Vs. 22-30 Since it doesn't say that one of the disciples asked Jesus this question, it could have been someone from the crowd that followed Him. The answer suggests that Jesus was answering someone who was not yet saved. This answer is very similar to what He said in Luke 12:57-59, which was also to the unbelieving crowd.

V. 24 The word "strive" means to agonize, to fight, scratch and struggle. The crowds treated Jesus like their good buddy, but the danger of judgment was always present and believing in Jesus was no trifling matter. And, it isn't as easy as unbelieving people think it is. We know that it is only a prayer away, but in reality, there is a struggle of heart against their own sin that takes place. Without God's help, none of us would have made it. If a person was on a sinking ship, they would be crazy not to struggle to get to a lifeboat. And if God threw them a rope and made a way and they were too "relaxed" about taking the help, they would only have themselves to blame.

V. 30 This is definitely to the disciples and Jesus will talk about this later.

Vs. 31-35 Can you imagine the surprise these Pharisees received when they died and immediately found Jesus sitting on a throne? Shocking.

Jesus is trying to help the people, and these guys are trying to scare Him away. Jesus' route to Jerusalem was not very direct. You could say that He was making a final tour of Israel, sometimes actually heading away from Jerusalem, but the destination was where He was to offer Himself to God for mankind.

He weeps over Jerusalem here, though He is miles away. He will do this in Luke 19:41 as He views Jerusalem from across the valley. Notice the words Jesus uses here. How can people actually say that Jesus didn't think He was God?

Luke 14:1-6

When I read this, all I can say is that Jesus was strong and courageous. Jesus was invited again to eat with a Pharisee and He went, but He knew the Father was leading Him into a place of testimony, teaching and conflict. And this is only a small part of what happened at the Pharisee's house. There will be more tomorrow.

I think for us as disciples, a part of "abiding in Christ" is seen in how Jesus abided in the Father. Jesus expected the Father to lead Him every minute of every day. Jesus was always in the presence of the Father and understood every situation as being a part of the Father's working. Jesus always knew that He had the resources of the Spirit and Jesus always knew that He was completely secure in the Father's care. I think if we abide in Christ as we follow Him in the harvest, this same security we see in Jesus will be ours too.

Psalm 79

This looks like it was written after the destruction of Jerusalem in 586BC. Verse 11 talks about prisoners. By this time, there was a well established and protected Jewish community in exile in Babylon and the synagogue system was being developed. A descendant of Asaph, apparently, got inspired.

Vs. 1-4 The only time this happened in Jerusalem is when the Babylonians broke in at the end of Zedekiah's reign. Notice that Asaph is appealing to God on the basis of the destroyed temple and city and the scorn brought to God's name. It is interesting that we read in the song of Moses that when God let that happen, the nations would know that God allowed it because of Israel's idolatry.

Now, there may also be a prophetic element to this that looks ahead to the tribulation. What happens to the Jews and all other believers in Christ during the final 3.5 years of the tribulation will make all other persecutions pale in comparison.

Vs. 5-7 Using Jacob's name is probably a way of appealing to God to remember His promise to Abraham. Notably, the tribulation is called the time of Jacob's trouble. Notice that verse 5 is echoed by the martyrs in Revelation 6:10, "and they cried out with a loud voice, saying, "How long, O Lord, holy and true, will You refrain from judging and avenging our blood on those who dwell on the earth?"

Vs. 8-10 Since the people in Jerusalem during the siege were mostly ungodly (there were exceptions) these verses seem to look to the future when those who follow Christ will be viciously persecuted during the tribulation. This sounds like something the martyrs in Revelation ask of God.

Vs. 11-13 The retribution asked for here came upon Babylon and will come upon the nations in Revelation. Verse 13 is said from a heart of faith, and this will be true of those who stand with Christ in His kingdom.

Since this psalm is inspired by the Spirit of God, the thoughts of this psalm are also God's thoughts. That's something for us to think about when we try to understand God. Look at what Jesus said regarding the narrow gate. He is not just about inclusion and warmth and love and tenderness. There is also judgment and punishment. These are also part of the good news, and this is why the Lord has left us here and sent us into His harvest.

Proverbs 12:26

We do have a responsibility to those around us, including the guy next door. To whom much is given, will much be required. It's a matter of compassion and love. We've been shown love, and now as disciples of Jesus in the harvest, we need to try to help others find what we found.

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.

April 9, 2012 Reading Notes, He is Risen and Returning!

April 9, 2012 Reading Notes, He is Risen and Returning!

http://www.esvbible.org/devotions/every-day-in-the-word/

The Resurrection of our Lord means life and the message has to get out. We need to rise up with joy and the power of the Spirit and carry it into the harvest.

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

Believe it or not, this is our last full day in Deuteronomy. If you open your Bible and hold Genesis to Deuteronomy together, that is a hunk of Bible. The same goes for what you've read in the Psalms and the Gospels. You've actually read about a third of the Bible since you'll be reading the psalms twice. Tomorrow we meet Rahab, a woman of incredible faith.

Deuteronomy 33

This is sort of like Jacob's blessing of his sons at the end of Genesis. What things stand out to you? I only have a few of my own observations.

Vs. 1-5 Moses begins this blessing with God's coming to Sinai with His angels to show great love to His people Israel.

V. 6 Reuben is mentioned first as Jacob's firstborn, but interestingly, Moses says his men would be few. It may be that the penalty for his incest was still there and had some influence in the tribe.

V. 7 Judah is mentioned here because he is the son/tribe who really received the birthright. As it will say today in Psalm 78, the blessing went to Judah. Can you remember why?

Interestingly, Simeon isn't mentioned although he was the second son. This tribe was absorbed into Judah.

Vs. 8-11 Notice the space given to the Levites. Of all the things that God gave this tribe, Moses mentions the Thummim and Urim. These were incredible gifts to the nation. I still don't understand why the nation didn't avail itself of this blessing, except that to get this answer you had to come to the tabernacle.

V. 10 Notice what the Levites were supposed to do. They were to be the teachers of Israel.

V. 12 Benjamin is mentioned with Joseph since both were sons of the loved wife, Rachel.

Vs. 13-17 This is a lot of text and blessing for Joseph. Israel was to remember that God used Joseph to save them. Compare this to verse 67 in today's psalm. Everyone looked to Joseph and Ephraim, but God chose Judah. Notice in verse 17 that Ephraim is mentioned first. Also note the "ten thousand - thousand" comparison. This must have been a motto in the culture. This saying will play a funny role when we get to King Saul and David.

Vs. 18-25 I find it interesting that so much text is given to the tribe of Gad. Maybe this had something to do with the choice of the 2.5 tribes to settle on the east side of the Jordan.

V. 22 Apparently there is a possible wordplay here, because "Bashan" can mean or sound like "serpent." This could mean something like, "strong like a lion, but afraid of snakes." When Jacob blessed Dan in Genesis 49:17, he called him a snake on the road. All of this is interesting because Dan becomes the first tribe to completely defect into idolatry and they are not a part of the 144,000 in Revelation.

V. 23 The lake of Naphtali is the Sea of Galilee.

Vs. 24-25 A lot is said about Asher and I wonder why.

Vs. 26-29 This is the finale of the blessing on Israel (Jeshurun= the upright one).

V. 27 This sounds like Psalm 90. If you really want to get the rest of Moses' last words, you should read Psalm 90, which he must have written around this time. As Laura observed, the Song of Moses in the previous chapter should really be called the Song of God. Psalm 90 is the real Song of Moses.

V. 29 This could be applied to the church too, "….who is like you, a people saved by the Lord…" Now we need to get the word out in the harvest following our Lord to reach the lost and make disciples who make disciples who make disciples.

In reading verse 26 and the imagery of God coming on the clouds to help Israel, I have to think of the Lord coming at the end of the tribulation. Jesus spent 40 days after His resurrection teaching His disciples. He gave them the Great Commission and told them to wait for the Spirit to have the power to perform their mission. Then He was taken into heaven. The angels said He would return the same way, but it will be different. Only a few saw Him leave, but everyone will see Him return. He left silently, but He will come back with might and power to save Israel and all those who believe in Him. He is Risen, and returning. Let's be willing to sell all we have, gird our ourselves for our work in the harvest and wait expectantly with joy for His return.

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

Luke 13:1-21

Jesus had been teaching the disciples and then addressed the multitude. His word to them was that they were living like hypocrites. They knew the weather, but refused to understand His presence among them. Jesus told them they needed to make peace quickly with God.

Vs. 1-5 Apparently when Jesus finished saying this, somebody spoke up, probably trying to say something that would get some respect or acknowledgment from Jesus. Jesus turned the point and kept teaching the crowd. There are always people who want to point to a disaster and make a one-to-one connection to that event and sin. What's interesting is that Jesus doesn't deny the connection, but points the situation to the people who were talking. It is almost to say, "Don't worry about that, worry about yourselves." Notice that Jesus says that all of them need to repent.

The reality is that sometimes there is a correlation between events and God's hand of judgment. In all things, God is free to allow something to happen in order to make others wake up. Ultimately, all souls appear before the throne of God. That's where we'll all wind up. The question is, are we ready, and if we are ready, in light of this coming event, we need to be moved with compassion, not judgment, and help others find Christ.

Vs. 6-9 Actually, as Jesus tells this story, He is building on something that John the Baptist said earlier in Luke 3:8-9. If you look back there you'll find repentance, trees and fruit, too. Jesus uses the previous question of God's judgment in situations to point to God's mercy. Every person on this planet is in trouble. God's patience is incredible. Instead of judging quickly, God is kind and shows mercy. This is His daily posture as He works that none should perish. Many will perish, but it won't be because He didn't provide opportunities to hear the truth and respond.

Repentance is a "turning" from our sin to God. It is a decision of heart and soul, and need not be accompanied by doing anything. But the point of true repentance is that once a person has repented and turned to God, it should begin to become evident. The evidence is the fruit.

Vs. 10-17 So here is a case in point of religious fruitlessness. This woman had been bound by Satan 18 years. It doesn't say it was because of sin. The implication, like the man born blind in the Gospel of John, is that God allowed this for His glory. God works as He chooses so that we have opportunities to believe, follow Him and tell others.

V. 12 Notice that as soon as Jesus saw her, He called her and healed her. He knew it was of the Father and He had no regard for the fact that it was in a synagogue or on the Sabbath.

Vs. 13-14 Notice the contrast. She glorified God and the ruler of the synagogue had a fit.

Vs. 15-16 Jesus had used this kind of example before. It is interesting to me that it is similar, yet different from the others. For me it makes Jesus' teaching more personal and understandable. Verse 16 was a homerun.

V. 17 You wonder why Jesus was willing to continually face conflict. Here is the reason. It was to give the people a chance to respond to the truth.

Vs. 18-21 Jesus has used the parables of the mustard seed and the leaven before in Matthew 13 in a completely different context. This is almost verbatim with Matthew. I know that commentators are tempted to put a negative spin on both of these because of the presence of the ruler and because of the conflict, but it seems that since these are verbatim, the meaning is the same. Jesus could have used different wording to suggest negative influence. It seems to me that the message was to the disciples. The kingdom is seen by faith. It will begin small and will grow great, and it is hidden, but is among them. In spite of the resistance, the kingdom will not be stopped.

Psalm 78:65-72

So, after all of the disaster in the history of Israel, God rises confidently without inhibition and brings victory, order and peace through David. I think this is the main point of the psalm. Instead of rebelling as Israel has in the past, they are to submit to the order God has made, submitting to the rule of David. After Joshua, 400 years would pass in trouble and insecurity. The reign of David would be the next time the nation was secure. It was the visible blessing and working of God.

Proverbs 12:25

Encouragement is an incredible need. Yet, the Lord lets us walk without it at times to see where our real treasure is and where it is that we find our ultimate security. It is amazing how often Jesus told His disciples not to be anxious or to fear. It is what we are to learn as we follow, but I still pray for encouragement every day.

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.

April 8, 2012 Reading Notes

April 8, 2012 Reading Notes

http://www.esvbible.org/devotions/every-day-in-the-word/

Deuteronomy 32:28-52

Vs. 28-33 Notice how God refers to Himself as Israel's "Rock" throughout the entire song. This is in contrast to the "rock" Israel would choose to follow. The whole point in this section is that if they were wise, they would have understood that only Yahweh could have made them able to do what has been done. This is very much like Romans 1:22, "claiming to be wise they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images…" Then, as Jesus said, they bore evil fruit.

Vs. 34-38 You were wondering where the verse, "vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord," came from? God is saying that although He would allow the nations to punish Israel, He will punish the nations and vindicate Israel. God will teach Israel through punishment that they chose the wrong rock.

Vs. 39-42 God declares His ownership of reality and that all who make themselves His enemy will be judged. Some of this sounds a lot like John 5. Jesus will be the one bringing this judgment.

V. 43 This sounds like the book of Revelation. It is obvious that the fulfillment of much of what is written here will take place in the tribulation and in the Millennium.

Vs. 44-47 It looks like Joshua had a part in the "singing" of this song.

Vs. 46-47 are very powerful words and apply to each of us, too. As Christians, we still have the tendency to underplay the daily importance of the Word in our lives. As followers of Christ in the harvest, the Word, like the circulation of blood through our bodies, has to be constantly circulating through our hearts and minds. The wreckage we see in the lives of believers is directly connected to this.

V. 48 I wonder how I would feel if I knew that when I finished my sermon, I would die? That might be a reason to preach a really long sermon. But on the other hand, what does it mean to die? We show what we really think of God and heaven when we become overwhelmed by fear when we think of death. For those who work in the harvest, I think we all end up with the heart expressed by Paul in Philippians 1, "I'd rather go, but if it will do some good now in the harvest, well OK, I'll stay."

Luke 12:35-59

Vs. 35-40 Verse 35 is said with the same enthusiasm and for the same reason as verse 33, "Sell your possessions." If our treasure is in heaven, then we are free to live with joyful abandon toward God. Here, the emphasis is on doing the work of God in the harvest until He returns. There is that sense in which we should work with joy and expectation of our Lord's return.

V. 37 Notice that this reward is only for those servants who were awake.

V. 40 Jesus will talk to His disciples a couple more times about the coming of the Son of Man. That "day" is the 7-year tribulation. Its beginning will be totally without warning. For each of us as disciples, the day of our death, and the circumstances thereof, can come without warning too. We need to be faithfully doing His work and living in expectation of seeing Him at all times.

Vs. 41-48 The answer to Peter's question seems to be "all believers." You wouldn't call an unbeliever a "servant." We see plenty of believers lost on earth. Some people get drawn into the cultural comfort of worshiping worship and stuff, eating, drinking, being merry. Some really conservative, righteously right people miss the entire harvest by holding a loveless, military view of protecting the truth in a bunker, beating the servants. Satan is much wiser than we are and knows a million ways to get us off track and to neutralize us.

Vs. 46-47 "Cut in pieces" is a euphemism for a beating. Unbelievers don't get a beating. My sense is that those Christians who fell asleep in the light will be saved, but only as through fire. That "fire" of judgment for the unfaithful believer will have some aspect of punishment that will be awful like fire, but not like the fire of eternal condemnation. Some of us know what we should be doing and will get punished severely for our disobedience. Some believers don't quite get it, and will still be punished, but not like those of us who really have a clear vision of what's going on.

V. 48 The privilege and the requirement. This is addressed to the disciples then who walked with Jesus and saw who He was. It also applies to us who have been gifted for the harvest.

Vs. 49-53 The meaning couldn't be clearer. Jesus came for the harvest. This life will mean great blessing from God, as we follow Him into the conflict of bearing fruit in a dying, rebellious world. How can we desire to be anything different than our Savior? How can we expect to live a life that refuses to embrace what He embraced? How can we not follow Him into the harvest?

Vs. 54-59 Now this was addressed to the unbelieving masses. They needed to see what was going on and make a decision. They, like the whole world, were walking to judgment. Now was the time to settle with God. Once before the judge there would be no chance for mercy.

I wonder what this sleeping servant looks like? I wonder if he's more common than we think. Since I mentioned "Asleep in the Light," this is a good place to watch Keith Green sing it. It's a song that has meant a lot to me and been a motivation to hunger now, and not to fall asleep.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=em5gL0Rw4Aw

Psalm 78:56-64

This sounds like the period of the judges before Samuel became their main judge and freed Israel from the dominance of the Philistines. To get a better idea of what is said here, read 1 Samuel 4.

V. 61 sounds like the capturing of the Ark of the Covenant.

V. 64 This sounds like the deaths of Eli's sons, Hophni and Phinehas, and the death of Phinehas' wife in childbirth.

Proverbs 12:24

Well, I know which guy I want to be. The word "rule" may not mean to be a governor, but in contrast to the slothful, the diligent will remain free to live his life without slavery.

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.