January 9, 2014

JANUARY 9

Today's Reading in the ESV One-Year Bible

Genesis 20:1-22:24

So, we are nine days into the year. How are you doing? Remember: The Word is alive. These notes are not. Work to maintain your daily time reading the Word. If the notes are interesting to you, they will be here when you have time to read them. There are lots of lessons in these passages. As you read, what is the Spirit highlighting for you?

Genesis 20

V. 1 We are never told why Abe & Co. journeyed south. Whatever the reason was, there was no emergency. It seems that Abraham found himself being examined in the kingdom of Abimelech; and once questioned about Sarah, Abe felt threatened and lied. Then one thing led to another. It could be that there was an actual threat once Abraham was approached, because God never rebukes Abraham.

V. 2 Sarah was apparently still a "hot chick" at 90. Never give up!

Vs. 3-7 I'm always amazed at how easily God and Abimelech spoke together. This literally put the fear of God in Abimelech. It is interesting that God protected Sarah. God would have done this even without the lie.

Vs. 8-13 Abraham explains the situation behind the lie that he and Sarah told. Rightfully so, Abimelech is offended and is right in saying that Abe shouldn't have done this. Abe answers that he didn't sense from the people that there was a fear of the Lord in the land. There was fear now.

Vs. 14-18 Abimelech giving gifts to Abe and Sarah was a sign of his innocence and testimony to all the people to keep their hands off of Abraham. Abraham's prayer brought God's blessing back to Abimelech.

If you read between the lines here, I don't think Abimelech was such an innocent guy; and so God used this situation to cause Abimelech and his people to fear God and to respect Abraham.

On the other hand, God protected Abraham from himself. Even a man of faith like Abe had feet of clay. Apparently Abe was proud of his "little" trick, but what we see is that he had a huge area of fear and weakness. You wonder how someone who had seen so much from God could do this. He and Sarah were living in the very fulfillment they had longed for, so why would they fear man and doubt God. There is a root of deceit and trickery here in Abe and Sarah that sprouts in Isaac and blooms in Jacob. But I look at myself, knowing Christ, having the Spirit and the Word and a mission, and I can do the same kind of stuff. This passage is a warning to all who earnestly follow Christ to get the "logs" out of our eyes.

In a way, the "unbeliever" is really the hero here. He had a good, educational encounter with God that would prove useful later with Abraham and Isaac. The event was used by God for many purposes.

Genesis 21

Vs. 1-7 Isn't it interesting that when God told Abe that he and Sarah would have a child, Abe laughed. Then when Sarah heard it from the Lord, she laughed. Isaac means laughter. God understood that the result of what he put Abe and Sarah through would bring laughter of awe and joy when the baby was born. Because of the way God prepared their hearts, these are two parents who would never take the blessing of being parents for granted.

Vs. 6-7 When I read these words it makes me think what an incredibly unique woman Sarah must have been, and we know so little about her.

Vs. 8-13 Apparently Ishmael was mocking and making fun of Isaac. God allowed this situation to take place to move Abe and Sarah to this decision. God approved of sending Hagar and Ishmael away.

Note that God refers to Hagar as your slave woman, not "your other wife.” Even in God's eyes, Abe only had one wife. Paul would pick up on this reference to the slave woman years later when he wrote Galatians.

V. 12 This truth is also used by Paul very powerfully in Romans 9:6ff.

We could go after Sarah for her attitude toward Hagar and Ishmael, but God doesn't. He tells Abe to go with it. Not all disharmony is outside of God's will, and like the thing that happened with Abimelech, He uses this within His working. As disciples working with unbelievers or in churches, things happen relationally beyond our control. People get into conflicts and things break in funny, unexpected ways when there is constant discord. Instead of losing our minds, we need to rest in the Lord and realize He might have a deeper purpose in the thing we're calling a failure or catastrophe.

Vs. 14-21 Notice that God was with Ishmael and blessed him. Notice also that there were already Egyptians, Syrians, Assyrians, Canaanites and Palestinians. The place was crawling with people. I've heard people say that the major mistake that Abe and Sarah made here was the birth of Ishmael, whose people became the enemies of the Jews. However, later, the Edomites and Moabites and Ammonites were all enemies too, and none were related to Ishmael. It seems to me, from reading the text, the future enemies of the Jews were already in place and God is blessing Ishmael.

Vs. 22-34 Notice that Abimelech initiates this covenant with Abraham. He now knows about Abe and, with the strength of Abe's camp and the fact that God was with him, Abe was a threat to Abimelech.

Abraham is still the man of faith. The recording of this encounter will make sense of what happens to Isaac later. Abraham could have taken the land, or at least conquered Abimelech's kingdom. Abraham's camp probably had more people than Abimelech and Abe's men were proven in battle. Also, because of the size of his herds, Abe needed more territory. He could have "taken" this piece of the promised land without waiting. He endured inconvenience and discomfort to pursue God's promise in waiting. Doesn't that sound strange, to pursue something by waiting? You won't find that in a management book. What a great lesson for us as disciples, choosing to hunger and work in the harvest making disciples, when we could just enjoy "now" and make our own heaven on earth.

Genesis 22

Vs. 1-2 Notice that God tested Abe. He didn’t tempt him to sin. Apparently it is to be expected that God will "test" us too, to see if what He has given us has become an idol, or if our hearts are wholly His.

Mt. Moriah apparently is where Jerusalem would be built. If you're like me, you wonder if all of what is about to happen took place where Jesus would one day be sacrificed. It could be.

Vs. 3-14 This story is pretty straightforward.

People often wonder if they would have the faith of Abraham, meaning, if God asked them to sacrifice their son if they could do it. Note that Isaac was a teenager. Knowing what teens are like, maybe this is why Abe seems so willing to do it. Bad joke.

Testing is "fitted" to us and our lives following God. To answer the above question, if you had all of Abe's experience with God, had all His faith to wait and believe, lived 25 years without hope and saw the promised child, left home only on the word of God, etc., etc., etc., then yes this test would have been meaningful to you and you would have done what Abe did. And, your name would also be Abraham.

Interestingly here, we are told in Hebrews that Abe knew God could raise Isaac from the dead. Yet with Abimelech, Abe had such fear for his own life. Maybe that is why this test was so great. Abe had to deal with his deepest fear, and, in light of all the Lord had done for him, Abe finally submitted his fear of death to the hand of God.

Vs. 15-19 This test is a high point in redemptive history. Adam was not able to pass a test like this. Now, at that point in history there was a man on earth, who out of love for God and trust in Him, was willing to sacrifice something more dear to him than his own life.

Notice that it was the angel of the Lord, Jesus Himself, who spoke. This would be the place where He, the Son, would be sacrificed by His Father for the sins of mankind. Also, Isaac would have heard all of this.

There are lots of lessons for a disciple here. God will test us even though it seems unfair, since we are straining to do what others are not. Fruit will endure and lead to more fruit if the branch is wholly connected to, and abiding in, the vine. Your love and devotion to your Savior is more important than making disciples, reaching the lost and all the "Christian" stuff you do. In Ephesus, they lost their first love, but loved the work, and Jesus wasn't pleased. He threatened to remove them. It is too easy to make an idol of ministry and God's blessing.

Vs. 20-24 This little genealogical note is to give us some info that will soon become important.

Matthew 7:15-29

These are Jesus' final instructions, warnings, and qualifications to His disciples in the sermon. Note that there were not just the Twelve or the 70, but possibly a couple hundred "would be” disciples present.

Vs. 15-20 Jesus is bracing His disciples for the reality of false disciples. He is also getting them to probe their own motives in following Him. In a few years Peter, John and Paul would all be writing letters to churches warning them about false believers. Disciples are known by the disciples they produce. All disciples are to manifest the love of Christ in the desire to reach the lost and make disciples. Often we think that a person's mouth and words are "fruit.” Jesus says we are to seek the glory of the one who sent us. (John 7:18)

Disciples are known by their fruit. Some people come to Christ for themselves, their needs, their name, their comfort, etc. If a person's faith is so private and fruitless as to be invisible, I think James would say, "Faith without works is dead.” A disciple has to make sure he is discipling. Following isn't an invisible walk, for as Jesus says, a light is lit to be put on a stand and gives light to all who enter. Jesus doesn't seem to have a category for disciples who are allowed to hide it under a bushel. As disciple makers, we need to be putting it "out there" ourselves and leading others to do the same with their light. Fruit is necessary. Read John 15:1-8 to understand the importance of fruit. To see Jesus' definition of fruit, look at John 12:24.

Vs. 21-23 I'll bet when Jesus told this to His disciples, it took their breath away. It is possible to be involved in ministry and to be lost. Activity is not enough, even in the name of Jesus. Look at the list: they prophesied, they cast out demons, they did mighty works. Holy cow! How did they do that without knowing Christ? I don't know, but it is possible. Note that Jesus doesn't say, "I knew you once, but you got off track.” He says, "I never knew you.” Never! They came to the light to fulfill their own needs, not because of love for Jesus. Look at Acts 8:18-24. Here is a guy who came to the light so he could do miracles.

We need to be very careful and discerning as disciples too, even if we do know and love Jesus. We need, like Abe above, to be very careful that the ministry and God's blessings do not become idols to us and remove us from loving Christ. It happens every day.

Vs. 24-27 The key to living as a disciple is so simple. He who hears His words and does them is a disciple. Hearing is more than reading, but you can't "hear" them if you don't read them. This is why we're in the Word and why we get people into the Word. But like the parable of the soil and so many of Jesus' parables, we all need to make the effort to attach value to His Words and to following Him. And all of this issues from our love and desire for Him. If we love Jesus, we will read and understand and believe and trust His Word. Responding to our Lord's love moves us to "do" His Word. The "doing" is not duty if you're grateful and in love. I know it's hard, but it shouldn't be a "duty" to tell the dying where we found life.

Vs. 28-29 And like us, the people were astonished at His teaching.

Psalm 9:1-12

As a disciple, note that the adoration and praise of God (vs. 1, 2, 9) are only possible because David was oppressed and driven for ten years for following God. Abraham and Sarah could laugh in wonder and joy because they waited for 25 years. We will have this kind of praise, if we pay the price of discipleship, following Christ, reaching the lost, making disciples who make disciples. Living like this won't make everyone happy. We may have to endure and wait and cry out; but in the end, in order to protect us, the Lord will draw us to His side. That's a good place to be and it makes all of the hardship worth it.

Today we only have the first half of this psalm.

Vs. 1-2 Even though David was still under stress (v. 13), he had seen God deliver him so often that in coming with this new request for help, David had to praise the Lord for the past.

Vs. 3-4 David had seen enemies fall and circumstances change. He knew it wasn't simply because God loved him, but because God is righteous and maintains the cause of those who follow Him.

Vs. 5-8 As God rebuked the nations, they fell and were forgotten, but God has, and always will, continue to reign and give justice to the people.

Vs. 9-10 This is David's declaration of God's truth.

Vs. 11-12 This is the praise due God for the truth of those last verses.

Proverbs 2:16-22

Vs. 16-19 For the disciple, being wise, like the "wise man" who built the house above, keeps you from a lot of foolishness. One area of danger that Solomon is about to mention repeatedly is seeking sexual fulfillment in the wrong places. Apparently Solomon was writing this before it actually happened to him.

What would be more relevant to our culture? This world and individuals in it will be in chaos until the Lord returns, because we don't understand our need for completion and how powerful and controlling it is if it is not satisfied according to God's design specs. A lot of devoted disciples, men and women, are ruined here.

Note v. 17 and the mention of faithfulness to her husband and faithfulness to God. This is the same thing God mentions in Malachi 2:14, and is seen in Romans 1:18ff and in the Fall. Faithfulness to God and faithfulness to one's spouse are linked.

V. 19 Notice that those who go this way do not regain the paths of life. How many public preachers or people in full-time ministry do you know, who were caught in an affair, and have regained the place they were, either publicly or in their marriage, before they fell into sexual adventure? God is not mocked. He's given us the warning right here.

Vs. 20-22 Amen. David was just talking about righteous judgment. Those who walk with God, in friendship with Him, who love Him, cannot help but be righteous. They become like the Lord and He blesses them as friends.

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this linkhttp://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 todgkachikis@gmail.com.

If you would like documents containing an entire month of the Reading Notes, go to https://sites.google.com/site/dlkachikis/reading-notes. You can download these to use on your computer or to print.

January 8, 2014

JANUARY 8

Today's Reading in the ESV One-Year Bible

Genesis 18:20-19:38

Genesis 18:20-33

Abraham, as a disciple, was invited to chime in concerning the destruction of Sodom. For Abe the issue was not only saving Lot, but also understanding the Lord. What are your observations here regarding the Lord's answers? What do you learn about God through this whole interaction with Abraham? If you got to talk to the Lord, for coffee, who would be on your heart?

Vs. 23-25 It is interesting to me that Abraham understood that God had to be righteous. Actually, all men do, even though they themselves are not completely righteous. Even Satan holds God to a righteous standard while his own is totally nonexistent.

Note again that this angel of the Lord is the Lord. That sure puts an interesting twist on Jesus' words in John 8 regarding Abraham. Unknown to the Pharisees, Jesus had had a fairly long conversation with Abraham.

Genesis 19

Vs. 1-3 Since it mentions that Lot was sitting in the gates, it could be that Lot had some official title. The gates were where city officials sat and did business. Lot was rich so it could be that the lure to attract him to live in the city also came with a position. On the other hand, Lot may have just been sitting there, but the Lord knew he would be there.The angels tested Lot here by suggesting that they should sleep in the town square. Notice that Lot pressed them strongly, suggesting that beyond Middle Eastern hospitality, Lot was urged on knowing the danger these guests would be facing.

Vs. 4-11 In Sodom, the angels were, obviously, never in danger. This was a testing of Lot and the people. Years later in Israel something just like this will happen. I will never understand why Lot was willing to throw his daughters out the door to this mob. But I guess it's better not to judge.

V. 5 That we may know them meant to have sex with them. They would have raped those guests had it been in their power to do so.

Vs. 12-26 In this sordid tale of woe, the effects of living in Sodom are evident in Lot and his family. Lot had no credibility with the people, and now his sons-in-law just laughed at him. However he might have rationalized his contact with the people in Sodom, thinking he was doing them good. He saved exactly no one; however, he and his family became infected by the godlessness.

V. 16 You have to wonder what was going on in Lot's thinking.

Vs. 17-23 This is a very lengthy talk by Lot and it amounted to nothing. In the verses that come we'll see that even though Zoar was saved because of Lot, the people still knew Lot was somehow tied into what happened in Sodom. Lot didn't stay in Zoar.

V. 26 Lot's wife was punished, and though we don't totally understand what happened, she must have rebelled inwardly. The Lord was saving them and must have had a reason for what He did to her.

Vs. 27-29 Isn't it interesting that it says that God remembered Abraham and therefore saved Lot.

Vs. 30-38 It just kept getting worse for Lot. The effect of living in Sodom and not knowing the Lord is shown here in Lot's daughters. Sodom was destroyed, but they brought the "stench" of Sodom with them. Notice that the children became nations, both of which became a problem to Israel. One note to God's forgiveness and mercy is that there is one person from Moab in the family tree of Jesus. Ruth, the Moabitess, would become the great-grandmother of King David and would be in the line of Christ.

As disciples, if we live for Christ, with our treasure in heaven, those around us have a better chance of catching fire with true faith, than if we "blend in.” Following as a disciple means doing the work of following and reaching out. To complain about a lost world, while at the same time enjoying the good things of a lost world, is not being a disciple. Farmers farm. Harvesters harvest. Disciples disciple. Disciples are not harmless and they don't gripe. They press on to make more disciples.

Matthew 6:25-7:14

Matthew 6:25-34

This lesson to His disciples is big. Jesus taught this again and again. When He sent out the Twelve and the 70, He didn't allow them to take any money or food with them. Their heavenly Father would meet their needs. In Jesus' training of His disciples, this was a crucial lesson on following in the harvest and living with a spiritual, eternal perspective. As disciples, this promise and confidence in God is to be our truest heart and attitude in working for and following Christ in this world. This world is not our home. We're not "just passing through." We are here on assignment. God is constantly with us. He will provide our food, clothing and lodging. Even the hairs of our heads are numbered. And the only way you learn this is to follow Christ as a disciple in the harvest. At this point Jesus and the Twelve had all given up their careers and were being sustained financially by the "coincidences" (e.g., people who got healed, who decided to help) that happened to them along the way. The Twelve hadn't been sent out yet; but living with Jesus, they saw it was possible to serve God in making disciples, and to rely on His care, and not lose weight. This is a big one for us to learn too and it takes years of living by faith to truly internalize it.

Matthew 7:1-14

As you read this section, and before you read my comments below, try to put these thoughts together into a flow of thought meant for you as a disciple. It seems like Matthew and the Spirit are leaving out some important bridges between thoughts. Maybe the reason the Spirit is doing this is the same reason Jesus spoke in parables; that is, so that those who are really interested and work to understand (those who have) will get the meaning, and will get more, while those who have not, and don't really care, or have more important things to do…but why finish the thought. And then there is that little word "seek," which means to…but again, why finish the thought? You can if you want to.

Vs. 1-2 Jesus teaches His disciples not to judge. As disciples we know we are in a world steeped and lost in sin. Like Jesus, we are to work impartially getting His Word out. His Word and how people respond to it is the only lasting and worthy judgment we should have any interest in. Disciples can't afford to take sides in trivial things in this life (2 Tim. 2:4). We live in a lost world. We were lost. As disciples making disciples, we are to be humble in the grace we've received and reach out to help others find Christ and follow Him.

Vs. 3-5 So, Jesus warns His disciples about not being humble and says they should be fully involved in removing logs from their own eyes. Jesus knew it would be a temptation to be focused on criticizing others. In Luke, Jesus mentions that a disciple is not above his teacher, meaning that if the disciple maker has logs, so will the disciple. That's a warning. A disciple can't help others grow in faith with a critical attitude, and can't help people come to the place of removing harmful things from their lives unless they themselves are willing to do the same.

I remember a line from a tape by Howard Hendricks, "So I'm sitting across from this guy with his deep seated alcoholism and I say to him, 'The Spirit would be happy to move in and help you take control,' but I can't control my time, I can't control my money, I can't control my appetite. Friend, I'm no better off than he is. We both need the same message.” Where is your "log" that will destroy your credibility and lead you to make log-ridden disciples? And if you understand this properly, it isn't really an issue of any particular "log," rather the issue is following Christ in the harvest honestly, openly humble, growing and grateful.

But it is not as if Jesus is saying don't help others. He's saying to do it with humility and integrity, not as a critic and judge, but as a fellow disciple dealing with yourself before Christ. We are to be there to help others remove the speck.

V. 6 But not in all cases. There is a kind of unbelief where Jesus says, "Just walk away.” This is good for a disciple to know. We are not to witness to everyone, because not everyone is ready. This is not a suggestion, but a command. This command and the understanding of "who art the dog" and "who art the schwein" is best understood by the humble, "non-judging," "log removing," "helping others" disciple. The self-righteous and self-absorbed see dogs and pigs everywhere. The naïve think everyone will listen.

Vs. 7-11 Jesus seems to be saying, that instead of a hard combative attitude, we, as disciples, are to be in a constant mode of asking, seeking and knocking regarding our work in the harvest. I apply these to reaching out and making disciples, not getting stuff for ourselves. Only God can open doors to people. This asking, seeking, and knocking might also apply to needs we have as we are following Christ; but I really think it is silly to assume that this command is just for our needs, as if our only purpose on this earth is to eat and wear clothes and stay alive. Jesus already addressed that issue. This command is meant to give us the confidence to follow in the harvest bearing fruit.

V. 12 So, knowing that the Lord has our back in reaching out, we are to be open and generous as we pour out our lives into the lives of others. Loving our neighbor sums up the law and the prophets. (Romans 13:8-14, 15:2)

Vs. 13-14 Therefore as a disciple, make sure you are living a life that has the strain and difficulty of reaching the lost and making disciples who make disciples. If your walk as a believer is too easy you may be on the wrong road. All of us have the strains of life: fragile relationships, breaking cars, failing health, etc. Being a disciple on earth is about more than life maintenance; yet for many, that is all their faith helps them do, maintain life, and that is how Satan pins them down and keeps them out of the harvest. We have faith and strength for the harvest and in the harvest we find more faith, strength and joy than we realized we'd have. Yet Jesus is saying here that following Him involves work, with lots of sweat and strain.

In World War II my dysfunctional relatives became functional because they were no longer living lost, self-absorbed, dysfunctional lives, but were involved in the battle; and the battle gave them health and purpose. The war was hard and they would never have chosen the war, but they were called to it. They became lost again when the war was over. I really think the Lord knows what He's doing with His disciples. The harvest is hard and disciple making is a battle; but in following Christ, it brings health and purpose to His dysfunctional followers (disciples).

Psalm 8

Isn't it amazing to think that this awesome, amazing, infinitely powerful God loves us and invites us to work with Him to make His love known? What a thought that He would choose such foolish, weak, dysfunctional beings to love and honor.

Vs. 1-2 This is a contrast. God is glorious above the heavens yet the mouth of a baby can honor Him. This honoring is like the foolish bringing to nothing the wisdom of the wise.

Vs. 3-4 This is another contrast. God's power and creativity are utterly amazing, so why does He busy Himself with man?

V. 5 Satan certainly had a hard time with this reality, causing him to trip over his own beauty and pride. "What? Serve those ugly little things, when I'm so beautiful and worthy of worship myself?” So, Satan in pride rebelled against God.

Ironically, v. 5 is also quoted in Hebrews 2:7 & 9 regarding Jesus. So, once you've read this psalm through, as if it is written about us, then read it through as if it is written prophetically about Jesus. (You'll see at least one other verse that is written about Jesus in the NT?)

Vs. 6-8 That dominion still is in force and now that Jesus has redeemed mankind (the believing) that power rests again in the hand of a man. Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is He.

V. 9 Amen.

Proverbs 2:6-15

Vs. 6-12 Notice that this person is submitted to the Lord, walking in His way.

Vs. 12-15 These might not be openly evil men, just men who don't submit to the Lord and who want to walk in their own way.

If you read this and then reflect back over the OT portion for today, you'll see why Abe was one way and Lot another, why one was blessed and why one ruined his life.

As disciples, we are being offered great blessing as we, if we, follow Christ. (John 15)

 

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this linkhttp://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 todgkachikis@gmail.com.

If you would like documents containing an entire month of the Reading Notes, go to https://sites.google.com/site/dlkachikis/reading-notes. You can download these to use on your computer or to print.

January 7, 2014

January 7

Today's Reading in the ESV One-Year Bible

JANUARY 7

Genesis 16:1-18:19

Waiting for God is never easy, but it is something God requires of everyone who follows Him. Abraham's faith is amazing, and although he and Sarah will make a "mistake," if you can call it that, we shouldn't be quick to judge. They had been in Canaan now for about 10 years and she couldn't get pregnant. God kept confirming the promise, but there was no baby. Still, they held on to the promise.

Genesis 16

Vs. 1-3 Since Hagar was Egyptian, it would be a good guess that they obtained her when they went to Egypt and Abraham lied about Sarah. Regardless of the mistake being made here, this shows a lot of faith on Sarah's part. She and Abraham were both partners in pursuing the promise and following God. I understand from what happens here that God is extremely gracious, forgiving, kind and faithful.

The Spirit has given us the benefit of knowing that Abraham and Sarah never needed to do this. We understand they were driven by sadness and frustration. Those of us who are married know the emotional pressure of trying to get pregnant and what it can bring into a relationship. It is hard to withstand the disappointment.

There is no evidence to suggest they prayed about this decision, but it does say, "Abram listened to the voice of his wife." Not that a husband shouldn't listen to his wife, obviously, but in this matter it involved a very clear promise of God and Abraham's personal experience with God. This promise was as good as gold, set in stone, unmovable. Look at Genesis 3:17, And to Adam he said, "Because you have listened to the voice of your wife…” Sometimes it is easier to be "strong" in faith by ourselves, but the test of faith is that we hold to it in the presence of others.

As disciples, we have been told certain things that we know are true. What God says about this world, the heart of man, and the coming judgment of mankind are things that we need to keep in mind. We know we need to be in the Word and that we are to love and follow Christ. These at least are constants, good as gold, set in stone, and unmovable. The Word provides guidance in all the important relationships of life. So, we shouldn't let anything or anyone remove our resolve to follow and obey each day.

Interestingly, in Romans 4:20 it says of Abraham, No unbelief made him waver concerning the promise of God. His distrust was not in the promise. The problem was confusion and despair in waiting, not knowing the means of how God would fulfill that promise. In the end, what they always understood would be correct. Sarah would have a child.

Vs. 4-6 Imagine how life suddenly got complicated for Abe and Sarah. This kind of marriage was a legal thing to do in that culture. But in doing this, what they had understood as their "dream" (Abe and Sarah and baby) died. She gave her husband to another, younger woman, that pretty little thing they picked up in Egypt. And behold, Hagar became pregnant, meaning Sarah was the problem. Now, this young woman was flaunting it and Abe has grown emotionally connected (in love?) with her. Oh weh!

What lessons do you find here about how we can complicate our lives by not waiting on God but seeking other solutions instead? Abe takes no leadership (guilty conscience?) and wimps out. Sarah gets mean. Hagar flees.

Vs. 7-14 God had a sub-plan here for a man named Ishmael, a descendant of Abraham. Also, once God gave His promise to Abraham, He made good on it. Every child born of Abraham became a people. Even in Abe's weakness in seeking the promise, God was still faithful and true to His promise. Note that Abe's motivation in doing this wasn't lust, like David, or power and lust, like Solomon.

Notice the angel of the Lord in v. 7, and notice in v. 10, He says what only God can say. There are many places in the OT where the angel of the Lord is God the Son in human form.

God is tender, though corrective to Hagar, in fulfillment of His promise to Abraham. Ishmael is to be a Wild Donkey of a Man, meaning virile, strong, athletic, commanding. He was a guy who could put the soccer ball in the upper left corner of the net, by the post and crossbar, from mid-field; and if he got in the penalty box with the ball, you were finished.

You have to believe that Hagar related this all to Abraham (therefore we have the account) and that this calmed Sarah, who welcomed the returned and humbled Hagar.

Vs. 15-16 Note that Abe was 86 when Ishmael was born. In the next verse he is 99. It is good to pay attention to the dates or ages God gives. We know from Gen 12:4 that Abe was 75 when he left Haran and arrived in Canaan. You can figure out how long it was until the conception of Ishmael. This gives us an idea of time and the incredible struggle the waiting must have been for Abe and Sarah. Can you imagine not getting an answer to your prayer for ten years? And even this answer wasn't the answer.

So what is happening here? God apparently used Ishmael as a small glimmer of hope as they waited, until the true fulfillment, 14 years later. God used this situation to create something in Abe and Sarah that would give them incredible joy when Sarah finally conceived and had her boy. And of course, there is something about God's glory and deep wisdom that is to be taken to heart.

Genesis 17

Vs. 1-14 In preparation for the fulfillment of His promise, God restates the covenant, changes Abe's name, and gives him the sign of the covenant - circumcision. Remember that the fulfillment of this covenant was unconditional since only God took part in the cutting of the covenant. Circumcision was a required act of obedience for the nation of Israel, but it still was an act of faith to those who believed in God's promise to Abraham.

In Romans Paul will show that circumcision didn't save anyone or make them a child of Abraham. Since Abe was saved by faith before he was circumcised, it was only a sign of faith. The true children of Abraham are those who believe in the promise.

Vs. 15-21 Abe was good with what God was saying up until now, but then God renamed Sarai to Sarah and the dream, which they had always known was true, flamed to life again. Notice that Abe laughed. I think this was a laugh of joy and of revived, unbelievable hope. Abraham goes into this "testing of the waters" thing with God because he can't believe his ears. He had always known that the promise would be with Sarah. I'll bet he was a happy man.

Vs. 22-27 Notice that Abraham took immediate action regarding circumcision. This would become the national sign of the covenant in Israel, meaning they were under the promise of God. That was a redemptive promise showing that all nations would be blessed through Abraham. This was a sign of faith. The fact that Abraham acted so quickly and resolutely showed both his faith in God and his pursuit of the promise. It was a sign of the promise, cut into every man that would remind them daily of the promise. It is very interesting that God did something like this.

I have to laugh, because the real act of faith wasn't from Abraham, it was from the 300-500+? men in the camp who came out, listened to Abraham tell them of hearing God in the wilderness, then he pulls out a knife, says, "line up and lift your robes.” Whoa! And they obeyed. That's faith. I can't imagine (and don't want to) what that day looked like. No discipleship course that I know of asks for a commitment like that.

Genesis 18:1-19

This section of reading probably should have stopped at v. 16. God never doubted that Abraham would obey regarding the circumcision. Now it was time to visit Sarah.

Vs. 1-2 This could have been days or weeks later. Notice that Abe and Sarah are at the oaks of Mamre. Notice that the visitors sort of just appeared standing some distance away. It also looks like Abe was looking for them.

Vs. 3-8 On the one hand, this is ancient Middle Eastern hospitality. On the other hand, I think Abraham recognized the angel of the Lord, referred to here as "Lord.” Abe had met Him before.

I always smile when I read this. It seems like Abe says, "Hey, let me whip together a little something for you to eat," and then he goes out and kills, guts, skins, prepares and cooks an animal. Whoa!

V. 8 Like a good host, he waited on his very honored guests. Can you imagine Jesus showing up with a couple of angels for supper? What would you do? Order a pizza? Pick up some Chinese take-out?

Understand too as a side note, they were not illusions. They all possessed real physical bodies with fingerprints. When they ate, the food went through teeth, into a mouth and down an esophagus, not into a vacuum in their bodies. It didn't take God millions of years to make those bodies. They, as spiritual beings, had no problem making a body in a second, with moving parts and all the latest upgrades. God did that at creation too.

Vs. 9-15 Sarah hears the promise firsthand. The traditional way of understanding the visitors is Christ, pre-incarnate, often described, but not always, as "the angel of the Lord," and two angels. Notice in vs. 10, 13, and 17, the LORD said.

Sarah listened at the key-hole as they talked and she laughed in wonder, the same as Abraham. Can you imagine hearing that the thing you have been praying for and waiting for, for 25 years, was going to happen? Apparently Sarah, who was now 89, was having a hard time thinking her body would respond both sexually and maternally. For God, this miracle would be a piece of cake. The Lord showed her kindness and understanding because her lie was told in embarrassment and wonder, not in deceit.

Just as an interesting note here, think about this. When Jesus was in conflict with the Pharisees in John 8:37-59, He tells the Pharisees that they were responding differently than Abraham, whom they said was their father. Jesus said, "If you were Abraham's children, you would be doing the works Abraham did, but now you seek to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. This is not what Abraham did.” When Jesus told the Pharisees the truth, they didn't respond with faith the way Abraham did when Jesus, as the angel of the Lord, had talked to him here.

Vs. 16-19 This introduces the Lord's discussion with Abraham regarding the destruction of Sodom that will take place in chapter 19. Sodom was a city, but also a region. Abraham would now, tomorrow actually, see how just and gracious God is. And once again, Abe would be trying to save Lot.

As a disciple, what do you take away today, to help you follow Christ in the harvest with joy, faith and focus? What an amazing and compassionate Lord we follow. He is patient and understanding. His plans have a depth of wisdom that is totally beyond our understanding. He is faithful to His promises and He is unwilling that any should perish. For us, His plan is that He has saved us and sent us into His harvest to reach the lost and make disciples who make disciples.

Matthew 6:1-24

V. 1 Jesus is showing His disciples that the true power of our walk with Him is in secret. It is Christ in us when no one is looking. This is what shows who we really are in Christ. So much of our faith often revolves around Sunday morning and how the church meets our needs. The church is to be the group in the harvest reaching the world. Following begins with the individual disciple, living authentically with Christ. Jesus is not only dismantling the ideas of the religious routine they had been taught, but He is also encouraging them to seek the Father who will reward them for seeking Him sincerely in secret.

Vs. 2-4 This is giving to others. No one else needs to know that we give.

Vs. 5-6 Jesus first corrects what they have learned from the Pharisees. Prayer is personal, to our Father in secret.

Vs. 7-8 Apparently they knew something about how Gentiles prayed and so Jesus addressed this too.

Vs. 9-13 The Lord's Prayer is a way for a disciple to tune his heart to God as he prays. There is no magic in reciting this prayer in a church service. Since Jesus said the Father already knows what we need, in talking to God, this prayer helps us to keep reality in mind and to understand what is important to Him. The fact that this prayer tunes our attitudes is its brilliance. Jesus could not have given us anything shorter or more comprehensive to guide our thoughts as we pray to our Father. Take some time to think through every phrase.

Vs. 14-15 Jesus is still teaching His disciples about prayer. Just months before His death, Jesus reviewed "the Lord's Prayer," for His disciples in Luke 11:4. There, Jesus wove this message of forgiveness into the prayer. I understand this as a warning against an unforgiving attitude that hinders our prayers and keeps God from listening to us. As disciples working in the harvest in a lost and dying world, to withhold forgiveness, knowing that sin harms all of us, signals a lack of understanding and compassion. God will withhold the "daily cleansing" of our guilt and its consequences if we withhold forgiveness, understanding and compassion from other ruined sinners.

I have experienced and seen that when I harbor bad attitudes toward people who offend me, and do not show them the same forgiveness, understanding, mercy and grace, that my Father shows me, He holds me accountable for my guilt. Life seems dreary and my heart is heavy until I'm willing to forgive. God doesn't play games like this, even with His own children and those serving Him in the harvest. As a man sows, so shall he reap is still in force, regardless of who we are.

Vs. 16-18 If we fast, no one should see it or know about it, except our Father who sees in secret.

Vs. 19-21 Remember that mixed into what Jesus has been telling His disciples is the idea of reward. What is a person really seeking on earth? Where is their real treasure? Our value and reward is often in how we look to others. So, after the warnings of religion for the approval of the public, Jesus shows His disciples where this problem really comes from, seeking reward on earth, either from people or pleasure or money.

Vs. 22-23 To place our value here is totally blind. The "eye" is our understanding or spiritual perception of the truth Jesus is giving us. I think the "body" is our life on earth. Not to be working with the love of Christ to free others, as we have been freed in Christ, is blind. To live now for treasure on earth is darkness. If therefore our understanding and our perception of Christ doesn't allow us to value what God values, this "darkness" is deeper than we know.

V. 24 And Jesus is telling His disciples that this is the real problem. Not to be serving Christ as disciples following Him in the harvest means there is another master being served. Not all Christians are disciples, for this reason.

Discipleship is a choice to follow now, to be hungry now, to live now before our Father who sees in secret. God is patient with us, teaching us that true treasure is not to be found on earth and that we are blessed on earth as we follow our Lord in the harvest, bearing much fruit and so glorifying our Father.

Psalm 7

Very few of us have been in situations where we've needed to pray like this. Few of us have found this much opposition in our walk with Christ. Psalms like these made CS Lewis doubt their inspiration. Yet the Spirit inspired these words of David to show that God understands the crying of our hearts when we face injustice, hate and oppression. God is all for forgiveness and understanding, but even Jesus said there would be judgment and eternal punishment. What is written here shows something of how God feels toward those who harm others, and yet God shows His mercy until the end. As disciples who know the grace of God, we should be like our Father, showing kindness and mercy even to our enemies. And we should cry out to Him, as this psalm encourages.

Vs. 1-2 This threat seems to have gone to David's heart and the danger must have appeared to be very close to him.

Vs. 3-5 To me, this sounds like the application of what Jesus said in the Lord's Prayer, regarding forgiveness. David is saying that if he was guilty of the unkindness or unforgiveness, then it would be just for the penalty to fall on him.

Vs. 6-9 David knows that he is innocent and is asking mankind to be gathered to see God's justice. There is a sense here that David is talking about God's judgment over all people, all of mankind.

Vs. 10-11 David is not only expressing his hope in God, but he, through the Spirit, is expressing the hurt or offense God feels every day from every sin that mankind commits.

Vs. 12-16 Notice how this begins. If a man does not repent, God is more than willing to offer forgiveness and He provides a ton of patience. But, there is a day when there is judgment; and often that judgment is according to a person's own sin and behavior.

V. 17 Amen.

Proverbs 2:1-5

Didn't Jesus just tell His disciples about treasure? Notice the "if-then" proposition here. If this treasure is important to you and if you receive this word and call out, and seek, and search, then you will understand and find. Jesus said this to His disciples on more than one occasion.

In following Christ, this is what separates the "men from the boys and the women from the girls.” Jesus is about to say just this in His sermon to His disciples.

Where is our treasure as disciples? Will our love for Jesus drive us to dig deeper?

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this linkhttp://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 todgkachikis@gmail.com.

If you would like documents containing an entire month of the Reading Notes, go to https://sites.google.com/site/dlkachikis/reading-notes. You can download these to use on your computer or to print.

January 6, 2014

January 6

Today's Reading in the ESV One-Year Bible

Just to keep things in perspective let me remind you that it is more important for you to read The One Year Bible than for you to read these notes. I'm writing to give some background to the text and hopefully some motivation.

At this point in the year it is important for you to find a time and a place to read. You need to develop the habit. They say that anything you do 19 times in a row begins a pattern. If you miss a day, make the adjustments and learn from it, but don't get discouraged. This is the time to begin that pattern because everything we'll be reading for the next month is pretty interesting. Find ways to motivate yourself. I mark the pages at the top with a number for the year as I finish each page. Go out and celebrate a completed month. If you find a time to read that is best for you, don't compromise. Enjoy knowing that what you are reading is seeping into your heart through the Spirit, and God is pleased that you're taking the time to sit before Him.

Genesis 13:5-15:21

As far as beginnings go, this is another important section of Genesis. God is telling Israel where things came from and how certain things came to be. In this section, again, the history of God's work to save mankind takes a giant step forward.

Genesis 13:5-18

Vs. 1-7 The stuff they gained from the time in Egypt eventually caused a problem between Abe and Lot. Bigger is not always better and I'm sure there are many individuals, couples, businesses and churches that could say, "Things were better when things were simpler, before we got that house or building or became involved in that activity." As disciples following Christ, once we know what we are supposed to be doing, and what pleases and serves Christ in making disciples, we need to be careful about attractive things that distract us or consume us.

Notice in v. 7 that it says the Canaanites and Perizzites were in the land. That also meant that grazing land was not easy to find because others were laying claim to their own territories.

Vs. 8-13

V. 8 Abraham showed his security in God by allowing Lot to make the first choice. He also showed meekness, that is, strength and authority that expresses itself in gentleness and patience. Abraham, as the elder man, could have told Lot what to do.

V. 13 Lot's choice eventually ruined him. It wasn't just that he was greedy for more pastureland, but he was drawn to the attraction of the city. Lot was a rich man. How cool is it to be rich in the wilderness? Your money is not liquid. You have to wait on caravans to buy stuff, and no one can tell you how cool you are. If being rich is important to us, we need people and goods and comfort to realize richness. Lot eventually moved from herding and living in tents, to living in a nice house in Sodom. It could be that he even became the mayor (or some official) in Sodom. Cool. He wasn't forced to move into or near Sodom; but, inch by inch, this little decision had a huge impact and he ended up in Sodom. He didn't save Sodom; in fact, they ruined him, although the root of this was already in his heart.

Abraham showed that true meekness is strength. Again, as disciples, where does our security come from? Are we content to allow our lives to be simple and simply shaped by God and following Christ in His harvest? Or is following Christ OK as long as we can be first in line, and have a voice and a reputation, and get the breaks we deserve or at least get our rights recognized?

Vs. 14-18 After they separated and Abraham gave up the choice for the "best" land, only then did God confirm Abraham. Sometimes you have to make the decision to accept what God has for you in following, before He confirms His will.

Notice that God took Abraham away from Lot to travel the land. The area around the oaks of Mamre will become an important place later for Abraham. Notice that when he settled there he built an altar to honor God.

Genesis 14

Vs. 1-12 As we'll see in Scripture, God often allows a challenge or disaster to happen to lead us to blessing. That is what happens here. This event didn't directly affect Abe until v. 12.

Vs. 13-16 Abraham lived in tents his entire life in Canaan. Actually though, with all his livestock and servants, it was a small city. This was not "camping" and it definitely wasn't easy to move. If Abe took 318 men with him (born in his house) to save Lot, there were probably women and 2.5 children per couple too. They could have easily been 1000+ people. I'm sure Abraham was a scheduled stop by the merchant caravans (as opposed to Dodge Caravans©) that passed through. Eventually Abe & Co. became a known entity in Canaan, with Abe as the leader. He/they became known as Hebrews.

V. 14 This mention of Dan suggests that God had already given Moses some idea how the land would be allocated. The tribe of Dan had their land in northern Israel.

Abraham with his servants and his allies defeated a much bigger army and brought everything back. Now Abraham was a military force to be reckoned with.

Vs. 17-20 This is a small section, but huge in the plan of redemption.

As close as Abe's relationship with God was, he understood that Melchizedek was a priest of God and submitted to him. It appears, too, that Melchizedek taught Abraham something about God in the way he addressed God.

If you do a word search in the Bible on Melchizedek, you'll find some interesting stuff. Psalm 110 is written by David and is a prophetic description of the Messiah. The Messiah is said to be a priest of the order of Melchizedek. In Hebrews a lot of information is given about Melchizedek. Because Jesus is a priest of the order of Melchizedek, it means that although Jesus humanly couldn't be a priest because he wasn't from the tribe of Levi, He is a priest superior to the Levitical priesthood. Because of the way Melchizedek is spoken of, mysteriously and without origin, some people think that this Melchizedek that Abe is talking to is a manifestation of God the Son before He became incarnate as Jesus. Notice that he greeted Abe with bread and wine. Jesus would have done something like that.

I had a university professor go after me one time, because, in his thinking, some people didn't have a chance to learn about God. I said that God had His way of making sure people heard if they sought Him, and suddenly I thought of Melchizedek. I told him that unknown to us, suddenly this guy pops up in Genesis who has been telling all sorts of people about God. Also, later, you find a guy like Balaam (who is not a role model for your kids) but was known as a prophet of God. There may have been thousands of these guys who we don't know about, who traveled with the other language groups, scattered across the earth. We have to trust that God made sure people had a chance to know about Him and to respond to Him. Here we meet one of them and he's a priest of the God Most High.

Vs. 21-24 Abraham was open to Melchizedek, but was distant and resistant to the king of Sodom. If Abraham had taken anything from him, it would have signaled an obligation to Sodom. Sodom was a bad place. He refused to take any of the wealth of what had been recaptured. As disciples, it is important to know who to connect with and whose influence to avoid. That's not being legalistic, just realistic.

V. 22 Notice that Abraham pledges himself to God with the very words he just heard from Melchizedek.

Genesis 15

This is a great chapter in the Bible.

V. 1 So, why would God come to Abraham and tell him not to fear, that He would be Abe's shield and reward? The words in the ESV, your reward shall be very great, can mean, as in the KJV, NKJV and NIV, "your great reward;" that is, God Himself was Abraham's reward.

Abraham had now made a name for himself, but that's not always good. Those who wanted to raid Canaan now knew they would have to deal with Abraham. That meant that "Abe's town" had become a military target. Also, in the time that passed, maybe Abe regretted not having taken some of the booty. In any event, this is how you can understand God's words to him in the NIV, I am your shield and your very great reward. Apparently Abe needed a hug.

Vs. 2-3 It is hard to imagine how hard the waiting was for Abraham. God had promised; Abe had gone. God made him wait. Waiting is part of following as a disciple and doesn't mean you've missed God's will. What a great lesson. Abe would have more lessons on waiting and so will we. Becoming fruit-bearing disciples is not for the weak-of-heart or those who imagine instant success.

Yet notice here how deeply Abraham's desire and desperation had grown. The promise and the waiting intensified and tested his faith. Remember what God did to Adam before He made Eve. He gave Adam something to do that revealed his need and created a longing. We shouldn't be surprised when God does that with us.

Now comes a very important part of biblical and redemptive history. I'll hit the high points, but make as many observations as possible.

Vs. 4-6 Notice that God takes Abe beyond a single child to an uncountable multitude. Abraham's faith was incredible. In spite of the waiting and disappointment, when God restates the promise, telling Abe to look at the stars, Abe looks up and believes God…and it was counted to him as righteousness (Rom. 4:3). This belief was based on his faith in God and His promise, but the actual "being right before God" was still future, waiting for Christ to make payment for sin and satisfy the justice of God. Faith saves, not works, and salvation by faith is built on the death and resurrection of Christ.

Vs. 7-11 Abraham's question in v. 8 launches this "cutting of the covenant.” According to custom they were to kill the animals and cut them up, making a lane between the animal parts. Then both parties of the covenant were to walk through this lane, committing to the agreement, saying that if either one reneged on the contract, that they would end up like the animals. Something like that.

Vs. 12-21 First, God prophetically states what He will do for Abe's offspring in the near future. Then God makes the covenant, but the Abrahamic covenant is unique because only God makes it. In a way, it is more accurate to call it a promise, since a covenant usually had two parties. Abe never strolls the lane, only God. That means that the fulfillment of this covenant has nothing to do with the obedience of Abraham or Israel as a nation; it is solely God's responsibility to fulfill what He has promised. It is an unconditional covenant. This means that all of the promises to Abe and Israel will be fulfilled. None of it depends on Israel's obedience. God will make it work.

So, does the church replace Israel? Only if the Abrahamic Covenant is invalid, and that can only happen if God reneges on His promise. As Paul would say, "By no means!" In Romans 15:8-9, Paul says that the covenant with the patriarchs was confirmed (not fulfilled) in Christ. The fulfillment of Israel's destiny in God's plan is still future. The literal nation of Israel will fulfill God's purpose as a fulfillment, not of the Mosaic Covenant, but as promised to Abraham and then through the prophets.

V. 18 Notice that God tells Abe that He will give Israel the land up to the Euphrates. That has never happened…yet. It will happen during the Millennial Kingdom when Israel fulfills its destiny.

Another way to understand the unconditional quality of this promise, as confirming all redemptive history and promises, is to realize that it too is a part of another promise; that is, the seed of the woman would conquer the seed of the serpent. That promise was absolute, without any input from Adam, Eve, or any person. It became a basis of hope and faith for the believing, but the promise was never dependent upon them. That promise necessitated and incorporated other actions on God's part. The saving of Noah, the promise to Abraham, the establishment of Israel and the law and the promises, the promise to David, the coming of the Christ, His death and resurrection, and our redemption are all parts of that promise. The gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable. None of what God did was to be done "only if" we responded properly. While we were still weak, lost, dead and blind, Christ died for the ungodly. Our only "part" is to believe and receive.

Isn't that a great message to take into the harvest?

Matthew 5:27-48

For me, it is best to understand what Jesus is saying as instructions to His disciples. The supposed "intensification" of the law given here is not toward rigidity or legalism, but to honesty and realism following Christ on earth. Instead of playing fast and loose in matters of authentic honesty before God and getting by with "religion," we are to realize we are in a serious conflict, and so to live for Him and reach lost people.

Vs. 27-29 These are important for us as disciples especially today, with the ease of getting pornography. We are to have no mercy with things in our lives which cause us to sin. Jesus will use this same example later with the disciples, warning them about things that make them proud.

Vs. 30-32 We are not to treat marriage lightly. God meant for marriage to be permanent, so if a person is devoted to God, he needs to treat marriage the same way. That's hard to do when divorce is so commonplace in our culture. It would appear here that it is allowed to divorce a person for committing adultery because they have broken the marriage covenant. However, these verses are not saying that divorce is necessary.

Vs. 33-37 This matter of taking oaths or making grand declarations in the name of God was a religious thing. I think Jesus is saying to live quietly and humbly before God, obeying what He says.

Vs. 38-48 These verses are probably the purest test of our true understanding of our salvation in Christ. If we know what is happening in the world and understand the spiritual battle, we know what is at stake and how important our testimony is. Jesus Himself was the model for this. Isaiah 53:7-8 says, He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he opened not his mouth. By oppression and judgment he was taken away; and as for his generation, who considered that he was cut off out of the land of the living, stricken for the transgression of my people?

For us and our salvation He willingly allowed Himself to be mistreated. I ask myself why this is so hard for me, but if I want to be His disciple, I have to become more like Him, or as Paul put it in Philippians 3:10, share his sufferings, becoming like Him in His death. These verses are the test of being like Him.

V. 42 Notice that this is a command to His disciples. It shows how bound we are to our money and stuff and whether we really believe God can provide. Always keep a few dollars in your pocket to give to someone who is begging.

V. 45 This should be the goal we are working toward.

Vs. 46-47 In a godly sense, we are told to seek these rewards. Probably the best way to keep this in perspective is to remember that we are really seeking to be like our Father and our Lord. That is reward enough. Hebrews 11:6 says, And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.

Psalm 6

Vs. 1-3 Although David knew that what he was feeling was because of his enemies, it is hard to be down and not feel like God is rebuking you. How bad do you have to feel to sense it in your bones?

Vs. 4-7 David's life was weak because of his enemies, but he appealed to God to save him based on God's steadfast love, not because of anything David had done. This all looks pretty desperate.

Vs. 8-10 David understood that God would accept him and help him.

Not to say that you can't find help in other places, but as disciples, we find that true mercy comes from the Lord, and true confidence comes from being heard by Him as we pour out our hearts. There is a lot of prayer-less ministry and networking that goes on in the name of God, asking only for His stamp of approval, often after the fact.

Proverbs 1:29-33

These are amazing words of warning, especially realizing that the guy who wrote them didn't heed them. The fear of the Lord, knowing that this could happen to any of us (and does happen to us), helps us not to treat God's love as something to be taken for granted. He warns us because He loves us. If He didn't spare Solomon or David, why should He spare us for disregarding His Word, His kindness and His love. On the other hand, as disciples working with people in the harvest, what a fantastic relationship to bring people into. If they will follow as disciples, in that process, He will bring order and peace to confused and tragic lives.

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this linkhttp://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 todgkachikis@gmail.com.

If you would like documents containing an entire month of the Reading Notes, go to https://sites.google.com/site/dlkachikis/reading-notes. You can download these to use on your computer or to print.

January 5, 2014

JANUARY 5

Today's Reading in the ESV One-Year Bible

Genesis 11:1-13:4

There is a lot of information in this section, most of it flowing toward Abraham. God and Moses are not giving Israel a "history of the world," but to some degree, a history of their nation. I say "to some degree," because inherent in this history is the description to Israel of how this mess began, and how God is working with and through mankind to bring redemption. Israel will become God's messenger to the world that salvation and blessing are possible. Unfortunately, Israel will also become the symbol of mankind in rebellion to God. This "service" to humanity will cost them a lot, but there will be blessing at the end.

Genesis 11

Vs. 1-11 Whereas the problem in Genesis 6:1 may have involved man calling on "spirits" and those angels mixing with mankind in a way that produced almost absolute corruption, this initiative seems to come solely from man. Notice the term in v. 5 - children of man.

V. 4 It seems implied that the tower was for worship, possibly for worshiping or getting information from the stars. Ironically, this area is where the wise men eventually came from.

V. 6 That nothing would be impossible for man, I think, implies that mankind would have become as deeply corrupt as they were before the flood. God "nipped it in the bud."

Vs. 7-8 I have never understood that mankind had sinned in that they didn't scatter after the flood. How do you define disperse? The sin here was the tower and seeking to make themselves capable of finding answers without God. The giving of languages was brilliant on God's part. Interestingly today, English has become the common language of the world. Things are more connected today than ever before, and once again it seems we are capable of all sorts of things. What God did there held back this "unity and self-sufficiency" phenomenon for a long time.

Vs. 9-26 This is tracing the line of faith and of the promise of a child and deliverer. Almost all of these names appear in Jesus' genealogy in both Matthew and Luke.

Part of enjoying reading the OT is getting curious and making observations.

How many years were there between the end of the flood and Peleg and the end of the flood and Abe? Who is the last baby in the line of the promise that Noah would have bounced on his knee? You also have to look at yesterday's reading regarding Noah's age and how many years he lived after the flood. Have fun!

These years were a time of incredible change in history. Nimrod, the builder of Babel, and first "man of renown," was born right away. This would set the wheels in motion for the language confusion, the scattering of mankind and the grouping of languages, clans and tribes, and (in my opinion) the drifting of the continents in the days of Peleg, about __ years after the flood.

These days would also have been the days of Job. The climate would have been changing; animals that needed the pre-flood greenhouse climate to live would have been going extinct. Also, the age of men was decreasing drastically, some think, due to the different atmospheric conditions after the flood (that being the natural agent of God's working to bring the age of man down to about 100).

V. 26 There is a little bit of a problem with this verse. If you look at Gen 12:4, Abe was 75 when he left Haran. That doesn't work if Abe was born when Terah was 70 and didn't leave Haran until after Terah had died (Acts 7:4). It is best to understand this verse saying that after Terah was 70, he had three sons in the years that followed. Probably, Abraham is named first because he is the most prominent of the three. Apparently Abraham was born when Terah was 130. The reason for the focus on these three sons is that they figure in the history to follow, but Abe is the focus of the story. Abraham is not only the beginning of the nation of Israel, but with Abraham, the promise of redemption becomes more defined. Another promise is given.

A guy once asked me why God was a Jew. As you see the story to this point, there isn't a Jew around. But there is God who is seeking to use the godly lineage, from Adam through Noah to Abraham and beyond, to bring about redemption. As disciples we have to believe that since the Fall, God has been involved in the redemption of mankind fulltime. As you see Him working with the godly line of mankind, He is saving, and working through those who have faith in Him and hope in His promise. As redemption is His purpose, and was to be the purpose of Israel and was the purpose of Christ, it is to be our purpose as His disciples.

An interesting take on all of this history and the selection of Abraham/Israel is given in the ESV and Septuagint reading of Deuteronomy 32:8, When the Most High gave to the nations their inheritance, when he divided mankind, he fixed the borders of the peoples according to the number of the sons of God (my emphasis)." The Septuagint (Greek version of the OT written before Christ and after the Babylonian exile) says "angels of God." These "sons" or angels would be referring to those bad princes mentioned in Daniel 10. The implication being, that as God allowed Satan and his angels to follow through with the authority He had given them to watch over mankind and the nations of men, God kept one man for Himself, making a nation from him to use as his voice of redemption to the other nations, and then, to all humanity.

Vs. 27-32 This introduces Abraham's (Abram's) family and background. Some of the names mentioned here will be important during the lives of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

These verses are a summary. Apparently God called Abraham in Ur, a city on the Euphrates near the Persian Gulf. Terah accompanied Abraham toward Canaan and brought his family and stuff 600 miles north until they settled in a place they called Haran, which they named after his youngest son who had died in Ur. For some reason they stopped here. Some suggest that this was disobedience on Abe's part. More likely God had this planned. Haran would become an important place for Isaac and Jacob. It could be that the father, Terah, had a strong hold on Abraham. Who knows? But, according to Joshua 24:2, Terah was an idolater. Abraham was not. He was a fully devoted follower of God. God probably wanted Terah left behind. From here God spoke to Abraham again to separate himself from his family and go to Canaan.

Genesis 12

Vs. 1-3 According to Acts 7:2, God first called Abraham in Ur. Now in Haran, after the death of Terah, God renews the call and promise to Abraham.

The promise to Abraham is explained in the New Testament to be for the redemption of mankind. Jesus came from Abraham and fulfilled this promise; that is, in Jesus, the descendant of Abraham, all nations will be blessed. This promise is a monument in redemptive history.

The faith of Abraham is amazing. It is not only a lesson and model for us all (Romans 4), but it serves as a basis of understanding that even in the OT, before and after the giving of the law, salvation was based on faith. It could be that Abe just "had" this faith, but I think he was influenced by Noah. Depending on how you understand the dating, Abe would have either been 60 when Noah died or Abe would have been born two years after Noah's death. In any case Shem, the son of faith who believed the promise, lived for 500 years after the flood and died just 25 years before Abraham died. For Abraham, the story of redemption wouldn't have been some story handed down from generation to generation. I'll bet Abe knew Noah or Shem and I'll bet God touched his heart with the need for salvation and redemption.

Vs. 4-9 This account shows Abraham's entrance into Canaan.

V. 4 Apparently Abraham felt responsible for Lot, his brother Haran's son. Note that Abe was 75 when he left Haran.

V. 5 When they left, Abe already had servants born into his household. When they traveled, it must have looked like a mass of people, wagons and great flocks. When they set up, they probably looked like a tent city. This was no small endeavor.

V. 7 Shechem would become a fairly well-known place. God confirmed His calling and promise to Abraham.

As the people of Israel heard this story as Moses wrote it and read it to them, they would be instructed in the faith and failings of Abraham and God's faithfulness to His promises.

Vs. 10-20 Now we come to something Abe did wrong. It was something that was to instruct Israel. As disciples, we are meant to learn from this as well.

Once given the promise, Abraham still freaked when the famine came. With the firmness and nature of the promise God had made to him, Abe should have known that God would protect him in all situations, and so, to seek God and rest in Him. That's easy to write, right? Going to Egypt, per se, wasn't wrong, but we have no evidence that he asked God about going to Egypt. I definitely don't think God helped him come up with the half lie regarding Sarah.

God saved Abe from the Egyptians, but He didn't save him from the consequences.

Genesis 13:1-4

What Abe gained in Egypt became a thorn in his side. His "ill gotten" wealth became a division between him and Lot. And then, they acquired Hagar, and she became a division between Abe and Sarah.

Even as disciples, "using our heads" and just doing what seems obvious can cause major problems or destroy the work that God is doing through us. We have to seek God and His way, even if we think the way before us seems obvious. We are no better than Abraham, and this story is here for us, "upon whom the end of the age has come. Therefore let any man who thinks that he stands, take heed lest he fall."

We have seen a man like Noah who became an object of ridicule for his neighbors for 100 years as he built the ark. It was all because he followed God. Now we see Abraham and Sarah following God. They gave up everything they had in Ur and Haran to live in tents for the rest of their lives. The nature of knowing the Lord is to follow. But it is the passion of every disciple to follow his Lord in the harvest.

Matthew 5:1-26

Although Matthew is being somewhat chronological here, his focus now, having established that Jesus is the Messiah and King of Israel, is to give a demonstration of His teaching. Matthew shows Jesus' authority over the law and how the people should live.

Let me put the sermon and the timeframe when Jesus said this in perspective. At this point, John, chapters 2-5 are finished. Jesus has been in public ministry for over a year. If you read Luke 6:1-19, you'll see what happened just before the sermon. The leaders now really want to kill Jesus. Jesus has just been up all night in prayer and this morning has just called the Twelve. He comes down the mountain with them to a level place. The huge crowds gather, and He goes back up a bit to a place where He can sit and have His disciples come to Him. Luke 2:20 gives you the true audience of the sermon, And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said, “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.”

Vs. 3-12 The Sermon on the Mount is Jesus' orientation for His disciples. For your reading, imagine that all the "blesseds" are choices you make or don't make in following Christ as a disciple in reaching out to a lost world as Christ did. You can choose to be poor in spirit now, or not. You can choose to weep now, or not. This means you can opt to live a comfortable, non-focused life, making the decision to be burdened, or not burdened, by this calling. The burden leads to blessing.

Vs. 13-16 Notice that the call to follow Christ as a disciple means working in the harvest as salt and light. Everyone who knows Christ should be salt and light. This is why the Lord has left us on earth, and this is the way we are close to Him, following Him. Inherent in what Jesus is saying here is our option not to obey.

Vs. 17-20 Jesus begins to re-adjust the way the disciples have been taught to think about God and obedience. What He says here will give the explanation for what follows in you have heard that it was said (v. 21-48). When Jesus is referring to the law here, He means moral law, not the ceremonial laws and rituals, the sacrifices, cleansings, etc.

V. 20 would have blown the disciples away. These religious leaders were looked on to be the most righteous and heaven-worthy of all men in their society. Jesus is about to show them that true following is in the attitude of faith, obedience and love toward God.

Vs. 21-26 It is interesting that Jesus begins with this one. The new commandment that Jesus will give His followers later is to love one another. What He says here is really key to loving one another and loving our neighbor.

V. 21 Note that Jesus doesn't say, "It is written.” He is referring to how the leaders taught this.

V. 22 Jesus is saying that if you have the attitude, you are guilty without committing the act. Notice that this applies to insults and calling someone fool. As disciples our hearts, our understanding of life and our focus on Christ have to lift us above these attitudes. We are all guilty of this. In any election year you can hear Christians "murdering" politicians, hurting their own hearts and bringing shame to the name of Jesus. Disciples are not supposed to be doing this.

Vs. 23-24 Allow me to paraphrase this through the filter of some conflicts I have seen between believers in the church. What is interesting here is that the offended party didn't come to church. The offender is in church and everything is fine. The person who is not at the temple worshiping is probably at home calling the other "fool" in his heart and is the one who was harmed to the place of isolation. Now, it could be that the person doing the offering didn't mean to offend the guy who is not at the temple worshiping, but even knowing the other guy was offended meant he had some connection and needed to try to be reconciled to the other. Care for our brother is more important to God than offering or attending church in peace.

Vs. 25-26 Later, Jesus will use this same example to tell the multitudes to be reconciled to God. Here, the story seems to imply that if you don't reconcile quickly with someone you've offended, then the offence might become a permanent resentment that will always be there exacting some sort of harm to the relationship. If so, married people should take heed and reconcile quickly. Unfortunately, churches are full of this stuff too.

The bottom line is that rotten relationships can hurt disciples. The basis of loving one another in the work of the harvest is forgiveness and reconciliation. If we don't do it, it can keep us from being as fruitful as we could be.

Psalm 5

It is possible that David ran from Saul for about 10 years. In order for Saul to smooth this with the people, he and his leaders spread lies about David. You sense the injury these lies meant for David. It was through this pain and suffering that God led David to Him and His Word. This was David's education in becoming a man after God's own heart.

Vs. 1-3 David had lived the high life after Goliath. He was a hero, had a good bank account and was a son-in-law of the king. All he did turned to gold, until Saul's jealousy and hatred was directed toward him. Now David was homeless and in danger every day. David's focus went to God, his true King. David's life became simplified because the only hope he had was in God. That David sought God made him the great follower that he was.

Vs. 4-6 Israel was full of talk and lies about David. It seemed like no one would listen to the truth and David really couldn't defend himself, running as he was. Yet, David had to rest in the Lord. God doesn't tolerate wickedness. David had to learn to wait on the Lord. David waited a long time.

Vs. 7-8 This is what David learned and it becomes the testimony of David. God's steadfast love never failed him and David's heart sought the joy of simply being in the presence of God. Amen.

V. 8 is also expressed again in Psalm 27:11. David wanted God's very plain and certain leading every day.

Vs. 9-10 Note that Paul quotes v. 9 in Romans 3:13 regarding the incurable sickness of sin. Just as Jesus said, sin directed against those following Christ is ultimately directed against Jesus and against the Father. All sin is a rebellion against God.

Vs. 11-12 To me, these verses are the real challenge in following Christ. Understanding that we are safe in God and there is no need for despair or anxiousness, we should be joyful. Apparently before this joy, you have to learn the deep crying out of the first verses.

Remember that these psalms were sung in worship.

Proverbs 1:24-28

These words seem hard but they are just. God is not mocked. In the OT, we are about to see the amazing patience and love of the Lord. He will give Israel chance after chance, over hundreds of years. He will forgive and be patient beyond anything we could imagine. But when people have refused to the place where their guilt is overflowing, God will judge. That is the same in our world. We just don't see or perceive it.

V. 28 Compare this verse with Luke 13:23-28. It is sad but true, and God will be totally just in doing this. Jesus also expressed this in John 7:34 and 8:21. Both contexts are very sobering.

I think, in God's love, I've experienced and learned in this way of having ignored God and suffering the results of my foolishness; but by God's grace, there has been restoration. God's grace knows no end for those who are willing come to Him and heed His voice.

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this linkhttp://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 todgkachikis@gmail.com.

If you would like documents containing an entire month of the Reading Notes, go to https://sites.google.com/site/dlkachikis/reading-notes. You can download these to use on your computer or to print.

January 4, 2014

JANUARY 4

Today's Reading in the ESV One-Year Bible

Genesis 8-10

This is another day of big beginnings in Genesis. Remember to write out observations and questions and mark up your Bible when you find things that are interesting to you. The important thing that happens is that your natural interest becomes engaged so you begin to see connections and seek answers.

One resource you might want to check out if you have a question is the Bible Knowledge Commentary online at Google books. It is free and this commentary is easy reading and more in depth than these notes.

Chronology of the Flood, Bible Knowledge Commentary-OT, p. 39.

Genesis 8

Vs. 1-12 Noah and his family have taken a long cruise. The chart above shows you how long all of this lasted.

V. 2 It is supposed by some that conditions before and after the flood were incredibly different. There are questions as to where all that water came from and where it went. It is thought that the earth was surrounded by a wall of water vapor that filtered the rays of the sun and gave the earth a greenhouse climate. In the flood then, that water vapor layer was dissolved (windows of heaven). After the flood, with this layer missing, the earth had extreme temperatures allowing for the ice caps at the north and south and the freezing of that water. With a huge change in climate came clouds and rain, making a rainbow possible, and certain animals became extinct because of the harsher climate. Also, it is suggested, that because the sun was no longer filtered, it led to the drastic reduction in the span of life for everything, mankind included.

Regardless of how God did it, through natural or supernatural means, God changed things significantly.

V. 10 Since this was a new beginning for everything, I think it is safe to assume that God allowed everything to grow quickly, supernaturally. To have an olive tree with a leaf, after all plant life on land had been destroyed, would be a miracle. This same thing is true when we read of the resurrection of someone in the Bible. It seems easy to believe the spirit could just go back to the body, but the body first had to be totally re-created. In this case God was again creating plant life. And who knows what else He was doing during that time.

Vs. 13-19 I think that God's blessing was supernaturally on everything that left the ark. One interesting thought is wondering where Moses got all of these month and day references. The detail is very exact. It may be that Noah kept records, but these never would have made their way into Moses' hands. It must be that Moses wrote all of this during the 40 years in the wilderness, as he spent time with the Lord. That means that as God gave Moses all of this information to write down, all of the days would have been according to the calendar God had just given to His people. On that calendar, their first month was our March-April. Later that would be the Passover and the death and resurrection of the child of promise, Jesus.

Vs. 20-22 I wonder if 8:20 wouldn't have been a better place to begin chapter 9.

V. 20 It is interesting to think that Noah knew which animals were clean or unclean. Even if Moses was writing this with his understanding of God's requirements, how would Noah, back then, have known which animals were acceptable for worship? Apparently God told him.

V. 21 The sacrifice had more to do with God being pleased with devotion, obedience and man's understanding of his need to have his sin forgiven. That was pleasing to God. It was not that God likes the smell of brisket. I mean, He probably does. Who doesn't? But in other places God says that sacrifices will not please Him if the understanding and heart behind the sacrifices is false. You can see this in Isaiah 1.

God is pleased with the sacrifice and devotion of Noah and promises not to repeat the flood, though stating that the sickness of sin is still present. Noah & Co. brought it with them.

This is a new beginning of the human race, from scratch.

Genesis 9

Vs. 1-7 This is God's blessing of Man and the earth with a couple of interesting additions.

Along with the fear of man given to the animals, it seems that Noah & Co. could now eat meat. Here God gives them the prohibition against eating raw, un-drained meat, that is, with the blood still in it. This command is repeated in the Law of Moses and again in Acts. Since this command is given before the law, it is suggested that it is still in force. The reason for this command is given and becomes a very interesting statement both literally and figuratively looking toward the future and redemption, its life, that is, its blood. Again, the intent here is not to forbid eating uncooked meat, but not to drink or eat blood.

V. 5 Were you wondering where the command for capital punishment came from? Then comes the reasoning for the command against murder. Man is created in the image of God. It seems to me this is mentioned here because a year earlier the world had been ruled not by justice, but by who could kill whom. I think this law reflects back to life before the flood.

V. 7 This almost sounds like God sending all the animals into the world.

Vs. 8-17 This is a big section and shows that God is doing something very important.

Since this is the first rainbow, it means that this is the first time there were conditions that would make a rainbow possible. It should be noted that the word for bow means "bow" as in weapon. When we see a rainbow I guess it should remind us that God has promised to show mercy and to withhold total judgment.

This promise to preserve or save is interesting when you see the rainbows in Revelation. Even there, as judgment is coming on the earth, God promises to preserve.

Vs. 18-19 These men and their wives were used to repopulate the earth. Notice that it was all one man and one woman. None of these men had multiple wives.

Notice that Ham is already being identified as the father of Canaan in v. 18 and again in v. 22 when he does what he does. So what did he do? Did he just look at his father, or something more? Part of this might be linked to the respect his other sons show Noah. It might also be displayed later in what was found in the religious worship of the land of Canaan.

Vs. 20-27 God never punishes Noah for getting drunk. Noah was a very righteous man. Some people who know more about fermentation than I do suggest that Noah might have been surprised by the change in the way the process worked after the flood. I don't know.

The real damage came as a result of Ham. When we get to heaven we'll have to find out what happened, but it was an attitude of disrespect and it must have had some element of perverted thought.

The curse is not toward Ham or his other children in general. The curse is on Canaan. Notice that other kids of Ham became notable people with notable cities. This curse was misused to support African slave trade. The curse is not on Ham nor was it on any of his descendants who may have populated Africa. The curse is only on one son, Canaan, who later becomes the people and land of Canaan, where Israel is today.

The land of Canaan has special interest because it was given to Abraham. That's why God and Moses are mentioning it here. As the children of Israel are hearing this read, God is supplying them with the explanation for why He used Israel to judge the land of Canaan. When Israel got there, they found that Canaanite worship was very sexually saturated. Most of what archeologists find from religious worship in that area is “X-rated.”

Something was seen in Ham and became intensified in his son Canaan, and God promised judgment for it. It is enough to say that as disciples, we need to be careful to keep our lives open and cleanable before the Lord, so we don't spread unnecessary stuff to our families or those we are trying to lead as disciples.

Vs. 25-27 Do you notice anything interesting about the curse and the blessings? Shem and Japheth, Noah's sons, are blessed. But Ham isn't blessed. He isn't even mentioned. But Noah's grandson, Canaan, was cursed.

Vs. 28-29 This is just some more trivia, right? Not at all. It may be that Abraham was alive the last 60 years of Noah's life. Depending on the dating either Noah and Abe overlapped or Noah died just before Abraham was born. In any event, Shem would have been alive to give a firsthand accounting of life before and after the flood. You wonder if Noah or Shem influenced the faith of Abraham.

Genesis 10

V. 1 This is the new beginning of the human race and sounds like Genesis 5:1.

Vs. 2-5 These are the descendants of Japheth. Remember that Moses and God are writing this many years later for the Israelites. These peoples had spread out after Babel. Notable are Magog, a people associated with aggression toward Jerusalem in the end times. Also, the name Kittim sounds like a people associated with the Romans.

Vs. 6-20 These are the descendants of Ham. Notice that Nimrod, from his son Cush, was the founder of Babel and Assyria. He was the first great king. It's always interesting to see the little commentaries given to certain people.

Vs. 15-20 This is a special mention for Israel. The people who came from Canaan, the son of the curse, would be the people God would remove from the land, through Israel. Although, if you look at Sidon, you realize that this is the influence of Tyre and Sidon and also the influence of Jezebel on Ahab and the northern kingdom of Israel.

Vs. 21-32 This is the line of Shem, the line of faith. Jesus will be one of Shem's descendants.

V. 25 Notice the comment given to Peleg. It is thought that it was during the time of his birth that the continents began to drift. This would mean that the languages had already been confused, and the peoples drifted apart from one another finding those of like language. Then the land masses began to move. If that's how it worked, that would have been a cheaper solution than taking a cruise or renting a kayak to get to South or North America.

From here God will direct Moses to follow the line of those people who were led by faith in the promise of a child who would deliver mankind. It is pretty amazing that as disciples of Jesus, we continue that line of faith as we work in the harvest following our Lord. His commission to us is to make disciples who make disciples until He comes. That's a cool privilege. But first, tomorrow, we'll have to read about the invention of that awful German language (Mark Twain's opinion).

Matthew 4:12-25

Now, you have seen that Matthew has a very specific purpose in mind, showing that Jesus is the promised Messiah. You've noticed that he didn't include the announcements of John the Baptist or Jesus, but we did get the wise men.

V. 12 Jesus' public ministry began at the arrest of John the Baptist, although Jesus had already been involved in ministry since His baptism. The arrest of John was an official starting point.

Now, just for your information, between vs. 12 and 13 there is a gap of time. It is here that you have John 1:35-4:54 and Luke 5:1-11. If you are interested, scan those portions to get a feel for how much Matthew is leaving out.

Vs. 13-17 After Jesus' rejection in Nazareth, Jesus chose Capernaum as His hometown. There were several reasons for this, but the reason Matthew wants us to see is that it fulfilled prophecy of Isaiah 9:1-2.

Vs. 18-22 This is the official calling of Peter, Andrew, James and John. I remember reading this and being stunned by the fact that Jesus just walked up to these guys He had never met or barely knew and said, "follow me," and they immediately left everything. That seems so unbelievable because it was. The calling of Peter & Co. was a process. Matthew is being very selective about the information he is giving. He's driving home a point about Jesus as the Jewish Messiah so he has to leave some stuff out. Before Matthew 4:18 comes John 1:35-chapter 4 and then Luke 5:1-11. If you just lightly skim those portions, you'll see that Peter & Co. had spent lots of time with Jesus. So if we were making some principles, we might say we have to get to know people first, and they need to get to know us, before we call them as disciples. We need to give them time before we ask someone to commit.

Matthew's point here is the one we need to heed. When Jesus, the Messiah, called, they left everything and followed Him.

Vs. 23-25 This is the growth of Jesus' public ministry. Jesus will now begin to experience increased popularity and opposition. The group of "disciples" will grow into a great crowd. It will still be several months before Jesus selects the Twelve. Discipleship with Jesus was a process.

Psalm 4

Like in the psalm yesterday, David is crying out to God. This will be a constant situation with David. God had Samuel anoint David to be king of Israel when David was a young teen. Now, years later, the promise hadn't been fulfilled and David will run and hide from King Saul for about 10 years. David learned to cry out, but he also learned that God's love, faithfulness and love were steadfast. He only learned that in hardship. That's how we learn as disciples in the harvest. There is no easy way to need the Lord desperately and to receive His saving help unless we are desperate and need to be saved.

V. 1 David was a pro at crying out to God. Notice what he asks for.

V. 2 I don't know how this sounded sung in worship, but the reality was that David had enemies in high places in Saul's palace.

V. 3 David knew this from his own anointing, but also from all of the history he knew from Genesis-Ruth. God was with those who walked in faith and trusted in His promises.

V. 4 Doesn't that sound like Paul in Ephesians 4:26, be angry and do not sin?

V. 5 In spite of persecution and hard times, David insisted that his men honor God and put their trust in Him and His provision. We'll see this in action in 1 Samuel.

V. 6 What do we really need? The light of God's face upon us.

V. 7 Even in his hardship David had joy, and it was probably a unique joy, because it was found in hardship.

Vs. 8-9 What do we need, to have peace and feel secure when everything is falling apart? David had peace and security, though humanly speaking, he was living in danger and uncertainty. God made the difference. That's why we're reading and soaking daily in His Word.

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

Proverbs 1:20-23

Notice how urgently God has Wisdom crying out to us.

As disciples, our growth has ups and downs. There is our love for Christ and our desire to make Him known and make disciples, but something that also has to grow is our willingness to be more and more submitted to Christ and to following the Spirit.

As Wisdom cries out in this proverb she says in v. 22, How long, O simple ones, will you love being simple?

Even as a disciple, I could say, "Hey, I've loved being stupid for years and I've still got a couple of areas I enjoy.”

Jesus, as a very gentle "disciple-maker," works with us, waits for us, probably saying, "If you'd really give yourself totally to me and quit doing the stuff that you and I both know is unwise, you'd have more joy in your walk with me and see real fruit."

V. 23 What an awesome promise. This isn't just the baptism of the Spirit when we are saved. Paul often spoke of being filled as a command and exhortation. Jesus promised that if we would seek God and yield ourselves to Him, the Spirit would lead and strengthen us in joy. I need that more and more.

If you’re reading along and don’t have a One Year Bible, click on this linkhttp://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 todgkachikis@gmail.com.

If you would like documents containing an entire month of the Reading Notes, go to https://sites.google.com/site/dlkachikis/reading-notes. You can download these to use on your computer or to print.