November 25, 2012 Reading Notes

November 25, 2012 Reading Notes

Today's Reading in the ESV One-Year Bible

Daniel 1-2:23

The book of Daniel has been an unexpected blessing in my life. The Lord surprised me with it one day. Back in 1979 or 1980 as I was studying in an empty college classroom, I opened my Bible for my quiet time and began to read Daniel. It was one of those things where the Spirit just “opened my eyes” to some things. I saw connections. In the week that followed, my desire for reading the Word, and pursuing God in it, received a huge shot of adrenaline that has carried me through to today. I remember taking a walk on one of those days thinking my life would never be the same. In a way it hasn’t been. Though some of the emotion and thrill of discovery has faded, I received a lasting sense of expectation and a desire to search the Word and ask the Lord to draw near to me. Even this morning as I was reading through Isaiah 55, I felt that privilege again, of having the Lord show me something in the Word and of Himself that will stay with me as I follow Jesus in the harvest.

I’m going to try to make observations here to help you discover stuff, but I know I won’t be able to restrain myself and I’ll probably say too much. Almost all of what I’m sharing with you I’ve gotten out of my quiet time and personal study, not from books or seminary classes. I want to encourage you to spend time in the Word, asking questions, looking for clues and connections. It will not only mark you for life with a sense of desire and joy in the Word, but when you share what you’ve learned, it will have a sense of life to it. You will become a contagious teacher.

If you are really bored in life, or are suffering from insomnia, and would like to hear some sermons on Daniel, I have these posted at https://sites.google.com/site/dlkachikis/messages. While the messages are not in "order" on the website, it is better to listen to them in order. The final message in this series on Daniel is actually from Malachi. If you listen, you'll hear why. And while we’re at it, if you know of anyone looking for a pastor, let me know, I’m available.

Daniel was a special man and God used him in an incredible way. You’ve heard me hint at things about him. Yet, as we've learned from examining great men, there are some very normal things that we can learn from Daniel. In Ezekiel 14:14, Daniel is mentioned with Noah and Job. I remember asking myself why Daniel is mentioned with them, and it hit me that both of those men were the most righteous men on earth at their particular times in history. So was Daniel. He is the only man I know of other than Jesus where God refers to him as "beloved." We’ll see that.

So where did this “superman” come from? As we have seen with other men in the Bible, Daniel paid his dues in following God; and the background and foundation of his faith were the result of a string of failures.

King Manasseh repented of his great sins, but could not reverse the damage he’d done, or get his son to follow the Lord. Yet, Manasseh spent the last six years of his life with his grandson Josiah. After his father's short, two-year reign, Josiah became king at age eight and was immediately known as a godly king. That had to have come from Grandpa Manasseh, the failure. But there was no Bible until ten years later when they were repairing the temple and found a copy of the law. When the first five books were read to him, the 18-year old King Josiah was moved to tears and was emotionally alarmed by the judgments God had spoken in Deuteronomy. God commended Josiah for his passion and tears, but He would not withhold the fury of His judgment against Judah. As if hard of hearing and against all hope, Josiah launched a revival in the land that was the greatest Israel had ever known. In fact, I think Josiah was the godliest king Israel ever knew. But in the end, it was a "failure." His sons, who became kings after him, were ungodly men. In fact, not only did Pharaoh Neco take his first son captive, but Nebuchadnezzar walked into the city, looted the temple and took some of Judah’s finest sons as captives to Babylon. Israel was no longer a sovereign state. The times of the Gentiles had begun.

So, who is Daniel? I’m going to suggest that Daniel was about 16 when Neb took him to Babylon. If Daniel was 16, it means he would have grown up during the end of Josiah’s reign, but his parents would have been born and raised during Josiah’s revival. Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah were four very godly teenagers who came out of four very godly families. Their dads and moms were products of Josiah’s revival. Josiah’s hopeless effort to save the nation failed, or did it? Wait until you see what God does with Daniel and his friends to save Israel. Faithfully bearing witness against all hope, like kings Manasseh and Josiah did, is all God wants. He does the rest. For us, this is following in the harvest, reaching out to the lost and making disciples.

God has a funny way of working under the radar. Two failed kings hoped against hope, working, knowing that God’s wrath would come. Manasseh influenced Josiah; Josiah influenced a generation of men and women. Four families had godly boys, and God used them to save the nation. Never give up. Make disciples who make disciples and leave the rest to God. I think that’s pretty cool.

Daniel 1

Vs. 1-3 This is God humbling Israel. To walk into the temple of a people’s god meant your god was bigger than their god. To take that god’s stuff and lock it in the treasury of your god showed superiority.

Vs.4-7 We will get an idea in chapter 3 of Neb’s plan in educating these boys. He apparently took young men from every country to train them and send them back as loyal servants, governing their land for the Babylonian empire. It was a brilliant plan. Alexander the Great’s idea was to encourage his men to intermarry in their conquered kingdoms, and therefore the Greeks I grew up with used to say that the original Greeks were all blond-haired and blue-eyed until Alexander conquered Persia. Anyway, you'll see the "loyalty test" for Nebuchadnezzar’s educational plan in Daniel chapter 3.

The food had all been offered or blessed in worship to Babylonian gods. Yet, who could blame anyone under those circumstances from eating his first pork chop?

V. 6 Notice the words among these. Daniel & Co. were not the only Jewish boys taken, so, for good or for ill, there was a peer group of Jews. That would have compounded the difficulty of standing alone. Thankfully there were four of them, like a disciple's cell group.

V. 7 All the boys had names that honored the God of Israel. They were renamed in honor of the gods of Babylon.

Now, write out a list of what these boys had lost: parents, home, names, language, etc. Not only that, they were threatened with death should they disobey. Not only that, they were with others they knew from Jerusalem who were "understandably" being compromised. None of this put them in a “secure” situation. Why would God do this to them?

V. 8 The contrast with all they had lost makes the faith of this verse so deep. Daniel & Co. had every excuse to compromise. They could have said they were going "undercover" for God. He’d understand. And after all, “Those of us who run away live to run another day.”

Vs. 9-16 Do you notice the words, God gave? You’ve seen this before in verse 2. You've also seen this in Joseph's life in Egypt. This is what Daniel & Co. knew. They understood all of this as God’s work. They might have been sad, but they never lost their understanding that the Lord was working. They understood that God was with them and loved them. What had happened to Jerusalem and what was happening to them was from the hand of God. This is why they had the courage to suggest this test. And God gave. Think of the things that make you anxious or ready to flip out. These guys had more than enough to stress an elephant to death, but they understood the Lord and knew He was with them. They just didn’t know what God would do, but it was more important for them to honor God than to stay alive. We’ll see that very clearly in chapter 3.

Vs. 17-20 And God gave. Something else happened too. They were so good that Nebuchadnezzar kept them close, in the city, in his personal service. They became notable and memorable and useful to Neb. We’ll see how that plays out in chapter 2.

V. 21 This is a significant time marker. What is really interesting is that Daniel chapter 10 happens in the third year of Cyrus. That’s two years later. So, why the mention of the first year of Cyrus? Why is that year so important? You should know this. In the first year of Cyrus, Cyrus the Persian king (who had just become the ruler of all that had been the Babylonian Empire) gave the command for the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. The 70-year exile began the day Daniel was taken, and Daniel was still serving in the government the day the exile ended. Daniel will be the story of God preparing the nations for the return of the Jews to Jerusalem and preparing the nations for the return of Christ to establish His everlasting kingdom.

Notice, that even in this crisis, through this crisis and by means of this crisis, God was working for good.

Daniel 2:1-23

V. 1 This was the second full year of Neb being king, but they may not have counted the months before that full year. It seems that this happened after the education of Daniel & Co.

Vs. 2-4 These various men were there especially for Nebuchadnezzar. They were his counselors, his support system, and his access to the gods. He was in a very personal and emotional distress, and now he needed them.

V. 4 Up to this verse everything has been written in Hebrew. From this verse to the end of chapter 7, Daniel is writing in Aramaic, the common language of the empire. Great scholars wonder why. You’ll figure it out just by observing the text.

Vs. 5-11 So what do you notice here? Why do you think Neb was so ardent that they tell him the dream too? As things are heating up in this confrontation, God leads the issue to exactly the point He is going to make to Nebuchadnezzar. Actually, God is taking Neb to school. I think verses 10 & 11 are the key verses here. Is there a man on earth who can talk to the most high God, who doesn't dwell with men? Nebuchadnezzar is about to find out that there is a man and that the most high God does talk.

Vs. 12-16 Apparently Neb went nuts. What you need to see here is that this is now a very public event in the city of Babylon. Troops are showing up at the houses of wise men (still wearing their pajamas and sorcerers’ apprentice's cone-shaped hats with the stars and moons on them) and dragging them out into the street, taking them to prison to hold them for execution. The city would have been electric as well as the entire government. People in the market places would have been talking. Wolf Blitzer would have been there for CNN.

In a crisis like this, I could have imagined Daniel & Co. trying to escape somehow; but notice Daniel’s composure in this life-threatening crisis. They have seen God’s blessing, and they know God is with them, so they bring their personal calm into the public chaos.

Arioch listened, and Neb must have remembered that Daniel had made a fantastic impression during his oral exam. Apparently Daniel & Co. hadn’t yet been brought fully into service. This might have happened very close to the time of their graduation and presentation to Nebuchadnezzar.

Vs. 17-23 It doesn’t say “God gave,” but we’re seeing that God was with them.

V. 18 Notice that they cried out to God.

V. 20 Notice that God spoke to Daniel and that Daniel spoke back.

Vs. 20-23 Notice the understanding that Daniel and his friends had. At this point, I think Daniel was about 19. I’ll explain this “guesstimate” when we get to the end of the chapter.

V. 21 Although this dream was to begin Nebuchadnezzar's education and give the world some interesting information on God's working, imagine what this much have meant to Daniel & Co. And we are disciples too. When you read about the dream tomorrow the question will be, what does this information mean to us?

V. 23 Notice the “us.” God spoke to Daniel, but Daniel understood that this answer was in response to all of them seeking God together.

Does crisis always mean a loss of blessing or a disaster? It depends on what we’re living for, and what we understand about God and this life on earth. As disciples in the harvest there is a lot for us to learn from looking at what God did through Daniel and his friends.

1 Peter 3:8-4:6

And now, we are on to another crisis. Peter is encouraging and strengthening these disciples to thrive in the on- coming persecution Nero will be bringing against the Christians in the Roman Empire.

1 Peter 3:8-22

V. 8 This sounds like Paul in Romans 12 and is addressed to having a kind heart toward other believers.

Vs. 9-12 It seems that Peter might have gotten some of this from Psalm 34:11-22. Very interesting. Also, this looks again like Romans 12.

Vs.13-17 We are called to be put to the test so that others can observe Christ in us and ask us why we have this hope. We need to make sure we are honoring God. These are great verses. Just so you know that Peter was listening when Jesus taught, here is Matthew 10:18-19 ESV, and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles. When they deliver you over, do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour.

Vs. 18-22 And in our suffering, to see the world rescued for Christ, we are following our Savior and His example.

Vs. 19-20 I have always understood that after Christ died, before He was resurrected, He spoke to those who lived before the flood. On what basis could God judge those people as righteous or unrighteous since the law hadn’t been given? Also, this was a very “spiritual” time, with fallen angels having much more contact with humans. Those angels were judged and locked up. Was God just in doing that? I think the issue might have been raised by Satan that it would be impossible for God to righteously save mankind without violating His own righteousness. But, there were some mysteries that God held back, that Satan couldn’t have guessed at. Jesus, by His sinless life and death for the payment of sin, became the basis both for the forgiveness and salvation of all men and for the judgment and damnation of all men and angels. Jesus spoke to all those people. A few were pronounced justified by faith (Methuselah probably died the year the flood began), but most were pronounced guilty. Apparently the people who lived between Adam and Noah were a special case.

So, if Jesus' work brought clarity (the pronouncement of judgment and forgiveness) to that mess, He can certainly rule over this mess.

Vs. 21-22 This salvation brought by baptism is not for salvation (the removal of dirt), but for a clear conscience in that we are committing ourselves to following Christ. We are humbling our lives to His leadership, putting ourselves under His authority. This is meant also to save our faith from damage. This authority was visibly confirmed on Jesus at His resurrection.

Another way to understand this is Paul’s mention to Timothy about the importance of keeping a clear conscience in 1 Timothy. By denying conscience, certain persons had shipwrecked their faith. As we’ve seen before, it is possible to damage our faith and walk on earth. God still loves and works with a repentant believer, but once a marriage is destroyed or adultery has been committed, you have to live with the damage done.

1 Peter 4:1-6

Vs. 1-2 Jesus is our example of seriousness and suffering. Anyone who has suffered has been tempered to see the true perspective of this life, and will therefore not live for passions and what is temporary, but will live for the eternal. Suffering is what God uses to refine us like gold and silver.

Vs. 3-5 Like Paul, Peter is warning these believers not to drift back to their former lifestyles and with their former friends. The temptation to do this would be to look acceptable and not to be mistreated because they belong to Christ. They needed to keep the eternal perspective before them. This sounds like Daniel & Co.

V. 6 Even though our bodies are judged and dead (and awaiting resurrection), our spirits are alive and will live forever with God in that new spiritual body. This is why we work in the harvest, making disciples who make disciples, to let people know that there is salvation in our Lord.

Psalm 119:65-80

Vs. 65-66 Exactly how did God deal with David according to His Word to teach him? Through suffering.

Vs. 67-72 Can you see 1 Peter 4:1-2 in these verses? Can you hear Paul and James and Peter saying that the testing of our faith is more precious than gold or silver?

Vs. 73-74 Through the Word and through suffering, God fashioned David in such a way that he would be a walking witness to others.

Vs. 75-76 These verses remind me of Job. God afflicted him in faithfulness, and God comforted him in due time with His steadfast love.

Vs. 77-78 In addition, David, even in his dismal days, had the promise he had received years earlier, as Samuel anointed him, that he would someday be king. David was pursued by the insolent and his only recourse to control and calm his thoughts was to meditate on God's precepts.

V. 79 Through David's affliction, and having to cling to God’s Word, God made David a witness and a model for those who were suffering. In Isaiah 55 it says, “Behold God made him (David) a witness to the peoples…”

V. 80 Amen.

Light The Fire Again, Brian Doerksen

Proverbs 28:14

Amen, again.

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

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

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

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

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

November 24, 2012 Reading Notes

November 24, 2012 Reading Notes

Today's Reading in the ESV One-Year Bible

This is a day to celebrate. Today is our last day in Ezekiel. For some people, this might be the first time you’ve read this book, and already, you might have a better grasp of what God is saying and doing through Ezekiel than many people who have been believers for years. Just think how much better you will understand the Lord and this book when you read it next year. Tomorrow we begin Daniel and you’ll enjoy it.

The point for us as disciples isn’t to know the book better than others. Our desire is to learn more about the heart of God, to know Him. He loves His people Israel, and He will faithfully guide every one of His promises to fulfillment. You learn how wise and loving and just He is. And then, some of what we are reading describes God doing great things that are still future, that are beyond our understanding of Him. These chapters today are my favorite chapters in Ezekiel.

Ezekiel 47-48

Ezekiel 47

Vs. 1-12 There is a lot to observe here, but I’ll just make some general comments.

This is a literal river. The fact that it mentions fishing on the Dead Sea shows this is a real thing. This river is also described in Zechariah 14:8, so we’ll see it again. The river will divide and flow east and west, but here, we’re only following it to the east. The entire ten-mile distance from Jerusalem to the Dead Sea will have trees lining both sides. At that point in world history, there will be a lot of hurt people all over the globe who will need healing. I don’t know how those leaves will heal, but I imagine the British will turn them into a “cuppa.” The leaves and the fruit will never run out, bearing new fruit every month. I’ve got to think the water will be pretty refreshing too. Just think of everything Jesus said about living water, and look at the first verses of Isaiah 55.

These people will witness and experience what Jesus said would be true of us when we are saved and have the Spirit within us. These will be living waters. So, knowing what the waters and trees are capable of, how do you make a figurative connection to what the Spirit is supposed to do within us, creating streams of living water? It’s something interesting to think about. Is it for us personally only, or is it really for the harvest? The effect of the new life in us, as we follow Christ into dead and sick parts of the harvest, brings the water of life to the dead, see? J

Notice that in verse 11, the marshes remain salt. I know, practically, Israel will need salt; but even more than that, it will constantly show what an incredible, on-going miracle this river is.

This will give everyone in the world a reason to visit Jerusalem. Zechariah mentions that Jerusalem will still be elevated, but the rest of Israel will be as flat as a pancake. That will make hanging out around the river easy.

Vs. 13-20 Just a couple of notes here. First, notice that to the north, Israel will be above, and will include modern day Damascus, so Syria will belong to Israel. Then, to the south, the border will skirt along that very famous place, Kadesh Barnea, and then will go up the brook that was the border of Egypt. The Nile was not the border of Egypt, but was more in the middle of Egypt.

Vs. 21-23 These are the general rules of how the land will be divided.

Ezekiel 48

Vs. 1-29 Generally, the land will be divided in East-West bands from north to south, each tribe's land extending from the eastern to western border of the land. See The Division of the Land of Israel During the Millennium. In the index of maps, click on the map that has this name.

It is interesting that Judah and Benjamin are north and south of the prince’s portion. That is basically the land that Joshua gave them, but they were both tribes from which God chose kings.

David will be the prince or ruler of all of Israel. Each of these tribes will also need government, and as I suggested yesterday, I think that each of the twelve apostles will govern or judge these tribes. You are those who have stayed with me in my trials, and I assign to you, as my Father assigned to me, a kingdom, that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. (Luke 22:28-30 ESV) As to who will govern the cities in Jerusalem and around the world, I wonder if the parables of the pounds and of the talents tell us anything. And he said to him, ‘Well done, good servant! Because you have been faithful in a very little, you shall have authority over ten cities.’ (Luke 19:17 ESV)

Vs. 30-35 Notice that the gates are named after the children of Jacob. On page 1316 of the BKC, OT, Charlie Dyer makes some interesting observations about these groupings.

The city will be called Yahwehshammah. Of course, the ACLU won’t like that, but Jesus won’t ask them. Everyone will know where the Lord is.

I wonder what the feeling was when the people in exile stood up after hearing this vision. They had this vision in their minds and hearts, but walked back to their houses in the land of Babylon, laborers in the country that God had just used to punish them and to destroy Jerusalem and the temple. This had to have been emotionally confusing, but it should also have given them some hope.

As disciples, we have a vision like this built into our hearts and minds because of our salvation. We know this “assignment” is temporary, and that we don’t belong here. We are here as foreigners and exiles (1Peter 2:11), following our Lord in the harvest, living for Him, making disciples and looking forward. But we don’t look forward to a city or temple. We look forward to meeting our Lord and being with Him forever.

For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. (Titus 2:11-14 KJV)

1 Peter 2:11-3:7

1 Peter 2:11-25

Vs. 11-12 Don’t these verses sound like the verse above in Titus? Peter and Paul were on the same wave-length and connected to the same server, running the same software. Notice how Peter keeps emphasizing that this world is not our home.

Vs. 13-17 Seriously, this is like a condensed version of Romans 13. The idea of good deeds here is that believers are evangelistically loving their neighbors, doing good stuff for them to open doors for the gospel. It is easy to argue with Christ’s message. It is hard to argue with His love.

Vs. 18-20 This is pretty clear. If you have to face punishment, let it be because you love Christ, not because you steal company time, spending too much time in the break room “witnessing.”

Vs. 21-25 This is such a great statement. We have been called to suffer in following Christ, bearing witness as Christ bore witness to His Father. In using the example of Jesus, behind these words, Peter is referring to Isaiah 53. Read Isaiah 53 and you’ll see this.

1 Peter 3:1-7

Vs. 1-6 These instructions are generally for all married women, but particularly for women facing the trial of an unbelieving husband.

Vs. 1-2 The Word is to be alive in them.

Vs. 3-4 This is like what Paul said to Timothy in 1 Tim. 2:8-9.

Vs. 5-6 Sarah did not think it was demeaning to be subject to Abraham. I think the word frightening here is the idea of a woman placing herself in God’s hands, both for her future and for the result of trusting the Lord in obeying these commands. We’re not talking about extreme situations of abuse here. In my experience as a pastor counseling couples, most women who resist submission to their husbands don’t fully trust God.

V. 7 This is just one verse, but it says volumes. A man is to understand his wife and understand how God has made women. That is what living in an understanding way means. It is living purposefully and intelligently, putting into practice what God has revealed as true.

If a man doesn’t heed this, his prayers will be hindered. It is hypocrisy to come before God for understanding and grace, when he will not extend that to his wife.

This is kind of corny, but it should be true of us as we follow Christ in the harvest.

This World is not my Home

Psalm 119:49-64

As you read this, look again for all the ways David refers to the Word and all the ways he was feeling under pressure.

Vs. 49-50 Notice what David is saying here. Isn’t this something God is saying to us all? Isn’t this the reason we all need to be in the Word every day?

Vs. 51-53 Notice that it was the Word that gave David both the protection from the wicked, and an answer for the evil in the world.

Vs. 54-56 This is what made David a man after God’s own heart. And this was happening in David’s years of trials and running. Most people take a vacation from God when they are under pressure.

Vs. 57-62 The Lord was David's portion and He pursued God through the promises of His Word. What is remarkable is that David pursued God while he himself was being actively pursued by cruel and unjust people.

Vs. 63 If only this would always have been true of David.

V. 64 This is the real song of David, and again, it shows why David was a man after God's own heart.

Proverbs 28:12-13

V. 12 What is interesting here is that this principle is true, but as seen in Hebrews and Peter, during times of wickedness, disciples are not supposed to hide. We may work under the radar, but we are still working and following our Lord in the harvest. If we feel the oppression, so do the lost who need a savior and we have an answer for them.

V. 13 I was reading today about Jesus warning His disciples against hypocrisy. And, I was reading in Isaiah 55, that if the wicked will forsake their way and turn to the Lord, He will have mercy and compassion upon them.

It is amazing, although there is so much Scripture and so many authors, if you listen closely, there really is only one Author, saying the same thing to us in so many different ways. He loves us and wants us to turn from our sin, turning to Him.

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

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

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

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

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

A Thanksgiving Note

If you're reading this, you are one of those people who has been reading the Reading Notes. I want to thank you for the inspiration you have given me by using these Notes. I hope they have been a help. Reading the One-Year Bible is the important thing, but the notes are written as a disciple's commentary and encouragement. My desire has been to help a growing disciple who is leading a discipleship group grow deeper in his/her understanding of the different books and to grow to love the Lord and the Word.

There will be no foreseen revision of the Notes for 2013. If you need the notes they will still be here in the 2012 section of the blog postings, but I will not be posting regularly on the blog in 2013. My plan is to use the Notes with groups of disciples and then do a future revision based on feedback and observations in those groups.

On that note, I am looking for a church so if you know of a church that is looking for a pastor, feel free to pass on my email address to them. The position I'm seeking is pastor, rather than associate pastor. In order for this to become a disciple making culture in a church, it has to captivate the heart of the pastor. If the pastor and elders are not fully engaged, it will never become the heart beat of a church. We are praying the Lord will lead us to a church we can serve in reaching the harvest and making disciples who make disciples who make disciples.

Thank you for being willing to sweat and strain to follow Christ in the harvest. I have seen "hits" from readers in Asia and Eastern Europe and the Middle East and I am humbled because I know that these people are risking more to walk with Christ than I am. They have been the inspiration for me to publish the Notes a day ahead, since 4 PM here is 6 AM in Singapore. I like to have my quiet time in the morning, so I've thought they might want the notes in the morning also.

I praise the Lord for the gift He has given me in allowing me to write these and I pray for you for your growth in Christ as you follow Him in the harvest, making disciples who make disciples.

In Christ,

Dan Kachikis

November 23, 2012 Reading Notes

November 23, 2012 Reading Notes

Today's Reading in the ESV One-Year Bible

Ezekiel 45:13-46:24

Ezekiel 45:13-25

As you read this section and make observations, keep in mind that you are learning something about the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit here. We tend to think that because we know Jesus, everything is over regarding the plan of salvation, and that after the time of the church comes one big party. After the Lord returns to earthy reality, there will be a thousand years of Israel serving God, and there will be a world trying to grasp worshiping a very visible God. In a way, it will be just like everyone is always saying they wish it was: God will visibly be here, ruling; we will know answers right away. Criminals will be caught immediately; the poor will be fed, etc. And to boot, Satan will be gone. But is that really what everyone wants? Without accepting the visible Christ by faith, the sin nature will still be unbroken and people will still be condemned. Ask any of the chief priests, scribes or Pharisees who persecuted and condemned Jesus; seeing is not believing.

Knowing God, all of what is being played out during the Millennium is necessary. Some of these sacrifices might seem crazy to us, especially to those with western sensitivities, but they will be visual aids and memorial reminders of what Jesus did for the human race. It will be so easy for everyone to love and revere Jesus, right?

Vs. 13-17 Notice that David will provide the offerings and notice too that the Sabbath will still be practiced in Israel.

Vs. 18-20 This is the Passover and notice that the blood is put on the doorposts of the temple. It seems that this will be the only place where blood will be used on doorposts. In other words, this will be a symbolic sacrificing of the Passover lamb for the entire nation, showing that Jesus is the Lamb of God.

Vs. 21-25 Notice that the Passover/Feast of Unleavened Bread, and the Feast of Tabernacles are mentioned as required. These will be celebration feasts and are all very visual reminders of spiritual truth. What is missing from this list is the Day of Atonement with the scapegoat. That won’t be required because atonement has already been accomplished.

Ezekiel 46

Vs. 1-12 A couple of things stand out to me here. First, at least in Israel, the Sabbath will be kept. Second, the prince, who we know is David, will be leading part of the worship. The fact that David will be leading worship is a very fitting thing. No other king was so passionate about being in the temple and singing to the Lord, than David. It is also interesting that David could enter the east gate of the inner court, but he couldn't go into the inner court. He remained in the east gate and left that way. Reading this description of him going in and out before the people, I wrote a note in the margin of my Bible that he was leading the people like a shepherd, going in and out before the sheep.

Vs. 13-15 In Israel under the law there were morning and evening offerings like this. Here it will only be in the morning. Again, it will be a memorial reminder to the world (actually, it had always been a reminder) for people to get their hearts right with God every day. The morning is a good time to do this.

Vs. 16-18 The part here about the prince and his sons is confusing. So far, the prince has been identified as the resurrected David. I don’t think he’ll have any more kids. But there will be rulers under him who probably will be identified as princes. If so, this would apply to those who are in leadership with David, ruling the peoples. I think this will only apply to the thousand years of this time on earth.

One interesting note here: In Isaiah 55 it says of David, “Behold, I made him a witness to the peoples, a leader and commander for the peoples.” The next verse talks about foreign nations. David never really ruled any other nations, but apparently in the Millennial Kingdom, he will be a leader and commander for them.

Vs. 19-24 The outer court will be so big, with so many kitchens, that people will meet and eat right in the temple area. I guess this will be like a millennial food court. It is interesting to me that God is not a vegetarian and that those who are involved in these sacrifices are required to partake of them. I suppose this symbolizes that after forgiveness, there is blessing and bounty.

1 Peter 1:13-2:10

1 Peter 1:13-25

Peter is encouraging these people to remain strong and close to the Lord in hardship. Knowing this, you should be able to think your way down through these verses and find principles for strengthening yourself in trials.

V. 13 There is a lot in this verse. What do you see? Do you sense the tense atmosphere of being under stress?

Vs. 14-16 The emphasis here isn’t just being holy (set apart). The real point here seems to be living fully alert, obedient and God-honoring in our conduct at all times, particularly in hard times.

Vs. 17-21 This has to do with having a Father to call on during this time of exile, knowing we have a future inheritance. This sounds pretty strengthening and encouraging, particularly for people going through hard times. Do you think it encouraged them to know they were exiles and that this place isn’t home? Does it encourage you?

Vs. 22-25 It seems like the Word is the point in this section, being mentioned twice in the last verse. Verse 22 looks like the effect the truth in the Word has on us. Verse 23 reminds me of the parable of the sower. The sower sows the Word. (Mark 4:14) How does this aid a disciple going through trials?

1 Peter 2:1-10

Vs. 1-3 I think this is still connected to talking about the Word. This is one of the only ways we are to remain like babies. We are to be constantly desiring and needing the Word. This is not only a good thing, it is a vital thing. Notice too that it is a command to long for the Word. That takes cultivation. It is not automatic. You hear people say that they "love" reading the Bible, but do they need it so badly and long for it so deeply that even when they don't "love" reading the Bible, they are still irresistibly drawn to it? That’s why we’re doing this together, right?

Vs. 4-8 After being grounded in the Word, we grow into Christ as a spiritual house. We are reading about the temple in Ezekiel. Here the temple is figurative, but even more fantastic. We are built into Christ. It is the Word through the Spirit that matures us in our Lord.

V. 9 is one of the shortest and clearest declarations of our blessing and joy in salvation and our mission on this planet. We are a priesthood. How? Notice the privilege that is being spoken of here. Can you see how this is connected to the harvest and our mission following Christ? Isn’t it amazing how Peter is encouraging these people, in their trials of faith, to keep following Christ? This is what we are supposed to do for others as we make disciples who make disciples who make disciples.

V. 10 And we should never forget this.

You have to admit that Peter had a knack for encouragement. Everything Peter is saying is focusing these people on Christ. Following Christ in the harvest is all about our salvation and our Savior. We have an amazing privilege and task before us on this earth. It is interesting to me that the two apostles, Peter and Paul, who are shown in Acts as having the largest ministries of reaching people, are also the two who fell the deepest and were later restored. Peter denied Jesus, and Paul persecuted and killed Jesus' disciples.

People of God, Wayne Watson

Psalm 119:33-48

Notice the different words David uses to refer to the Word.

Vs. 33-40 Notice in the first six verses how David asks God to make the Word known to him. Verse 40 shows that if you are passionate about something, you keep asking and God keeps answering.

Vs. 41-48 Notice how verses 41-42 hang together. If you only had verse 41, that would be great; but verse 42 gives you the context and lets you see how the Word strengthened David in his trials. In this section it is God's steadfast love that holds David's heart so that he can be strong to follow and be a witness to others.

Notice there are mentions of bearing witness, distress, seeking and worship.

Speak O Lord - Kristyn Getty

Proverbs 28:11

Comfort and money make you seem wise, but the better perspective comes from poorness and dependence on God. Blessed are those who hunger now. (Luke 6:21)

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

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

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

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

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

November 22, 2012 Reading Notes

November 22, 2012 Reading Notes

Today's Reading in the ESV One-Year Bible

Ezekiel 44-45:12

I’m sure there is a lot we don’t understand yet about life and living during the thousand-year reign of Christ on earth. In fact, we know practically nothing about it. In these chapters we are given a glimpse into what is going on, in and around the temple. In some respects, all of this detail gives us some idea of what the Lord will be doing with Israel and with the world.

Israel will fulfill their obedience before the Lord and be a witness to all other nations for those thousand years. The sacrifices will be a memorial remembrance to Christ’s sacrifice. Although their “religious” lifestyle might look burdensome to the world, there will be amazing blessing in Israel. Those with discerning hearts will see that it is not a blessing borne of works, but borne out of a relationship with their King. Their obedience will be out of love and gratitude, not out of payment for a service. The nations, who will all be rebuilding their cities and governments, will need assistance and will come to Israel for healing and to draw near to the visible Lord God of Israel. Faith in Christ will still be a choice.

Ezekiel 44

Vs. 1-3 This east gate of the temple has not been made yet, so it isn’t that closed, golden gate you sometimes see in the wall of Jerusalem. That golden gate might be what Jesus will use to enter Jerusalem, but this temple will not have been built when He returns. This gate will be off limits, because the glory of God will enter the temple through it. Only the prince of the people, David, will be able to use it.

Vs. 4-8 As God gives Ezekiel these instructions, it is still present time. The people had desecrated all that God had given them and all that was holy, By doing so, they had held God up to scorn for the nations. Therefore, there is a sense of judgment and harshness in these words. Those who serve the Lord in that temple will not need these words of caution. Most of those listening to Ezekiel speak will never return to Israel, and many will only see a temple (those early chapters of Ezra) that was the shadow of the glory of Solomon’s temple. These words, then are first, a rebuke to the exiles, but second a revelation to give Israel hope as a nation, that they will someday have a glorious future in service to God.

Vs. 9-14 Notice that circumcision will still be practiced as the sign of the covenant with Abraham, that is, a sign of the faith of Abraham. But even more importantly, no one will be able to come before God with a false heart. There won't be any politicking with Jesus.

The Levites will still serve in the temple, but because of their past transgressions, none but the sons of Zadok will be able to come before the Lord. It seems interesting to think that there will still be distinctions between people with Jesus present, but these 1000 years serve more than one point for all of mankind. The fact that the Jews will serve before God and that the nations will still be the “Gentiles” shows that, in humility, people will have to seek Christ and understand and trust Him. And even now in the church, we have human distinctions based on God’s choice of leaders and His assignment of gifts.

Vs. 15-27 These are the priests, the sons of Zadok, who come before the Lord in the temple. As you read this, take note of the detail. I wonder what that table is for. It is mentioned again. I wonder why they can’t sweat. Will there be air conditioning?

The job of the priest as described in verses 23 & 24 is interesting. This is the opposite of the effect the priests had on the people in the time of Jesus.

Ezekiel 45

Vs. 1-8 This will be the land that is designated for the city, the prince, the priests and the Levites. Apparently it will extend from the Mediterranean Sea to the Jordan and will encompass the city of Jerusalem.

For a map and picture of what this might be, look at this link: The Division of the Land of Israel During the Millennium. In the index of maps, click on the map that has this name.

V. 8 These princes are still future and they will help rule, or judge, Israel. If you are asking me, I believe we know the names of these princes. Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, in the new world, when the Son of Man will sit on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. (Matthew 19:28 ESV)

Vs. 9-12 So who are these princes? God seems to be referring to the conduct of the past kings and present exiled leaders. The only prince that has been mentioned up to now is David, who will rule the city and country as the king. This passage then seems to be a rebuke to the leaders, as represented in all of the kings and leaders up to this point. Remember that if you look at the northern and southern kingdoms of Israel together, you find a lot of kings; and most of these were horrible shepherds who fleeced the sheep. God will assign the prince his portion so that he will not take land or stuff from the people. In a way, this is more of an object lesson to the people present with Ezekiel, because I’m sure that David won’t abuse his privileges and neither will the twelve. The mention of honest measurement might be literal, as in how the leaders cheated the people who brought their tithes and taxes, or it could be a reference to the dishonesty of their hearts. In both cases, that will never be the situation in the future when the Messiah reigns over the world.

You can see that after the harvest of our times, there will still be a last period of time where people will have to make a choice for Christ. During that time there will still be death and there will be sickness, but the cures for all of these will be in Jerusalem. The nation of Israel will be the light, and the King on the throne will be the Savior. And who knows what we'll be doing. Some of us might be getting some much needed R&R and others might be helping by teaching and by helping rebuild a very tattered earth. After the rapture, the Tribulation and the beginning of the Millennial Kingdom, we might find ourselves still employed in the harvest, teaching and helping others, but fully resurrected in Christ.

1 Peter 1:1-12

We haven’t heard from Peter in months. At the time of writing this letter, Peter was now a very seasoned apostle, having served for more than 30 years after the resurrection of Christ. It seems that this letter was written to all Christians scattered throughout the Roman Empire. This letter is probably written sometime between the beginning of Nero’s persecutions in 64 A.D. and Peter’s death at Nero’s hand in 67 A.D.

Like James, this letter is written to encourage Christians in the harvest who were having to endure very tough times. Doesn’t it seem like endurance in following Christ is becoming a constant theme in the Word? We saw it in Hebrews, in James and now here. But then, we also saw endurance in faith in Paul’s life and in his letters. And we saw it in the life of Jesus. The Lord let His disciples know from the beginning that this life in the harvest wouldn’t be easy. Many of Jesus' disciples left Him. During this time in the church, many were leaving. And even today, many people hang around church and make the right noises only because everything in the west is so easy and non-confrontational. In our western culture, if we don’t live as a witness for Christ, who cares? Believing is totally easy and the requirements of following Christ are few. Just stay out of trouble.

But Jesus invited people to walk as He walked and to suffer as He suffered in the harvest. For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake, engaged in the same conflict that you saw I had and now hear that I still have. (Philippians 1:29-30 ESV)

The point of remaining on earth is to reach the lost and make disciples, that is, being witnesses and followers of Christ. On this planet, that means opposition. If we give up and don’t learn to endure in our faith, we miss God’s purpose for us. We miss seeing His grace in the lives of those who are saved and then become disciples who make disciples. We miss the work that only He can do in our hearts when we only have Him to depend upon. And worst of all, we miss getting to know Him and having Him and the Father make their home with us. See John 14:21-23.

Vs. 1-2 Since we are reading of the temple in Ezekiel, remember that everything that was holy and to be used in the service of the Lord was sprinkled with blood? There are also references like this in Hebrews. Peter is trying to encourage disciples who are beginning to face a hard persecution.

Vs. 3-5 There is a lot to observe here, but for me the comment in verse 5, that our faith guards us, is important. Peter will develop this.

Vs. 6-7 Notice that the testing, or proving, or strengthening, of faith is valuable and important. Notice the word necessary, referring to God’s choice for them. Notice also that not only does our faith protect us, but when it is proven, instead of bitterness and dejectedness, our faith, in the present and in the future, projects glory and praise to Christ. How often have we read that disciples shouldn’t complain about anything if we believe God truly is in control and if the Holy Spirit guides our steps each day?

Vs. 8-9 And this is why we don’t complain. It is because we are in love with the Lord we follow.

Vs. 10-12 It is interesting how Peter is encouraging them. I was reading yesterday that as Jesus was observing the joy of the 70 and was teaching, at one point, He turned to the twelve and said privately to them, For I tell you that many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it. (Luke 10:24 ESV) Jesus was telling them what a privilege they had received. Peter, remembering that day, was telling these people, and us, what a privilege it is to know Jesus and to be following Him in the harvest at a time like this.

Psalm 119:17-32

So, you’ve read this amazing psalm already once this year. But now, you’ve got a lot more of the Bible under your belt. As you read and make observations, notice how David begins to weave his feelings of distress and suffering and depression into his prayer. It is the Word that is strengthening David to get up every day.

Vs. 17-24 Notice how the first verse sets the tone of this section. To be dealt with bountifully meant to receive God's protection of his life. In the midst of all the threats to David during this short journey on earth, the Word became David's delight.

Vs. 25-32 My soul clings to the dust may be an expression regarding the frailty and sinfulness of the flesh, similar to Paul's "Oh wretched man that I am." The life David needed was in the Word. Notice in verse 26 that there was the recognition of relationship, that God was answering David out of the Word. In all of this there is a sense of desperately pursuing God.

It seems pretty obvious to me, that just like people who are clinically sick physically, sin makes us spiritually bi-polar and clinically at risk. We need our meds constantly, every day. We are only kidding ourselves if we skip the Word or get hooked on secondary sources. It is that Word that is alive. This spiritual sickness we have doesn’t require intermittent care, but rather, constant care; and that spiritual care we need is the daily input of the Word of God. Accept no substitutes.

I NEED THEE EVERY HOUR, Fernando Ortega

Proverbs 28:8-10

V. 8 seems to say that God will make sure that what this guy idolized is properly distributed to aid others.

V. 9 This could be that same guy.

V. 10 This could still be that same guy, but God reminds us again that following Him will be rewarded in the end.

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

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

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

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

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

November 21, 2012 Reading Notes

November 21, 2012 Reading Notes

Today's Reading in the ESV One-Year Bible

Ezekiel 42-43

Ezekiel 42

Vs. 1-14 Since there will be active sacrifice in this temple, there are chambers for the priests during the time they are serving. When Israel was following the Lord, the Lord was always present in the temple when the priests carried out their duties. During the Millennium both Jesus and the resurrected King David will be present and visible in the temple area. On the one hand, that will be amazing. On the other hand, I wonder if the priests will begin to take things for granted. As they say, "familiarity breeds contempt."

Vs. 15-20 This is the entire area of the temple. Apparently the area will be big enough for 13 football fields, suggesting of course, as we all know, that soccer (real football) is the sport of heaven.

Ezekiel 43

Vs. 1-5 It is interesting that Ezekiel witnessed the glory of the Lord so often. I wonder if this helped offset the sadness of his ministry. Now with the description of the temple complete, the Lord was returning to the temple.

Vs. 6-9 God is speaking to Ezekiel and it is interesting that he is seeing a vision of future glory and splendor, but God speaks to him of the present cleansing of the people. In the Millennial Kingdom the Lord will set up His throne here, and unlike the tabernacle and temple, this place will never be desecrated. The Lord will know the hearts and intents of all who approach Him. They won't need metal detectors or "evil heart" detectors. That generation of Israel will be cleansed, but the cleansing was beginning now, with Ezekiel's generation. In the future, no deceit will be allowed to enter God's presence. We are so used to living hidden lives with secret sin. There will be forgiveness during the Millennium, but there won't be any lying or hiding before His throne. That will freak out a lot of people. And it seems that once they are 500 to 600 years into the Millennium, there will be a growing sense of rebellion and dissatisfaction.

Vs. 10-12 As Ezekiel described this temple in all its detail to the people, God expected the people to be ashamed. Why do you think that was?

Vs. 13-27 This is the altar and its consecration. If there was ever any doubt that there will be sacrifice during the Millennial Kingdom, this should dispel it. Again, these sacrifices will be a remembrance of what Christ did. Salvation will still be by personal faith in Christ.

We don't have much detail as to what life will be like during the thousand-year reign of Jesus on earth. This shows that there will be need for a constant, visual reminder to the people on earth that Jesus sacrificed Himself for sin. Once Jesus is seated on the throne, He will become "that guy" ruling the world from Jerusalem. People will forget the seven years of the Tribulation and the display of God's power, just like the people of Israel forgot the wonder of the exodus. People will still be people and sin will still reject God. Although Satan will be locked up, the heart of man will still be sinful. In spite of a perfect government and direct access to the Lord, there will still be unbelief and rebellion at the end of the Millennium. True faith and trusting Christ will still be a choice. With the depth of sin we bear, even seeing doesn't mean believing. We are sicker than we think, and we don't need the devil in order to dishonor God and find our way to hell.

It is amazing to think that with Jesus present, people will still reject Him. But even more amazing is to think that we can go into the harvest with the message of Christ, and without seeing Him, people will become devoted followers of Christ, disciples who make disciples. Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” (John 20:29 ESV)

James 5

Vs. 1-6 Remember that in chapters 1 & 2, James had lots of negative things to say about the rich. According to James 2:6, the rich were also part of the hard times these believers were facing. It fits then that James aims some of his concluding remarks toward these people. He has just mentioned the rich at the end of chapter 4 in terms of their arrogance. It may be that there were some of the rich in the church, but it seems this condemnation and rebuke was meant to strengthen the hearts of the believers who were being oppressed by the rich Jews who were outside the church. They were reminded that God would repay these people.

Vs. 7-11 James calls the believers back to suffering and to waiting for the Lord with patience and humility. His use of Job is very much on target. As Job was suffering, it was his "rich" friends who were aggravating his problem and making it hard for him to endure. Notice in this exhortation the mention of the farmer. I'll bet James heard that from big brother Jesus. Verses 8-9 sound like Paul in Philippians 2:14 and 4:5. Same spiritual Author.

Vs. 12-20 It seems here that James is warning them not to invoke oaths before God or to make promises such as, "Lord if you do this, then I'll do that." Instead of bargaining, they were simply to draw close to one another and pray. Ron Blue's explanation of this in the Bible Knowledge Commentary, OT, pages 833-835, is very good.

V. 14 The word used for sick is also used to mean weak or heartsick. The anointing is also the same as that used to encourage or welcome a guest. This is an interesting wrinkle. Another way of looking at this would be that if a believer was really discouraged, weak in faith, thinking of defecting from the group, they should call the elders and have the elders encourage them. In other words, this can be understood without the person being physically sick and the anointing meaning to refresh a person's heart. I’ve anointed people with oil who were sick. In the last case, the physical problem was really a problem of being heartsick. They were cured, but only after moving away from the oppressive atmosphere that had been created by some very contentious believers.

It seems that the focus here is for the believers who are discouraged to draw together, and for the rest of the group to reach out to them and draw them in.

V. 16 This healing is of the soul, a lifting of the heart, and for protection from damage. It is the same word as in Hebrews 12:13; and, in fact, the situations of both verses might be very similar, "and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed."

So, why is the example of Elijah used? Notice the result in verse 18. His prayer brought restoration and new life to the land. It seems clear that the idea in the conclusion of this letter is for the church to bind together to get through the stress and discouragement they were facing.

V. 20 This is a rather abrupt conclusion if compared to Paul's letters. The wandering one in view here is a believer. If you look at 1 Timothy, you'll find Paul telling Timothy about all sorts of believers wandering from the faith. In fact, in 1 Timothy 6 Paul talks about believers who went astray, seeking wealth and comfort.

But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and hurtful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all evils; it is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced their hearts with many pangs. (1 Timothy 6:9-10)

The idea here is for the church to go after its members who have wandered away because of the discouragement and persecution they have faced. They are in danger of wrecking their walk on earth for Christ. In helping these wanderers, the forgiveness the wanderers receive will help them recover from the guilt of the sins they have committed.

Think of a group of believers reaching out to those who have been morally ruined and who have committed acts that they might not be able to forget or forgive themselves for. The church’s restoration, help and forgiveness can help them cover and recover from that guilt. This is also a part of the work we do in the harvest making disciples. Sometimes we need to restore fallen disciples to make them disciples who follow in the harvest, making disciples who make disciples.

Psalm 119:1-16

Like most of the psalms of David, this is the celebratory introduction to the psalm. The nitty-gritty is coming. In many places David was discouraged and stressed as he wrote this. He had the same problem as the people in Hebrews and in James. What is it that will keep his faith solid and refreshed as he waits on the deliverance of the Lord? We'll see.

This introduction gives you David's answer, and it is my answer, and it is your answer. It is God's answer. Christ doesn't call us to follow Him without suffering. He Himself suffered. Jesus calls us to Himself as we follow Him in the Harvest. And we find Him in His Word. That's why we're reading this stuff, right? To draw close to our Shepherd.

Vs. 1-3 This is the summary declaration of what it means to be blameless before the Lord. It doesn't mean perfection, it means having our feet constantly cleansed by the Word.

Vs. 4-8 Notice how many ways the Word is referred to. Also, notice that part of the obedience to the Word is expressed as praise to God for His Word. The closer we draw to the Word, the more we understand our need and what it is God does for us in His Word.

Vs. 9-16 Verse 9 is the question that is answered in this section. Notice all the body parts that get involved with the Word. None of this is a 100% guarantee that we will stay faithful to the Lord, but it will keep us closer to Him than if we were indifferent to His Word. We all fall, but even after David fell, this devotion to the Word is what brought his broken heart back to God. David was restored and remained for the rest of his life, a man after God's own heart.

Proverbs 28:6-7

Amen.

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

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

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

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

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

November 20, 2012 Reading Notes

November 20, 2012 Reading Notes

Today's Reading in the ESV One-Year Bible

The Millennial Temple, Bible Knowledge Commentary, OT, page 1303

Ezekiel 40:28-41:26

If you're like me, you don't have as many observations as you do questions from all of this detail.

First, if the temple was already built, why did the angel measure everything with Ezekiel? There is some importance in Ezekiel seeing him measure everything firsthand. I'm sure the angel was "online" with God and could have just said how long, tall and thick everything was. The audience of Ezekiel's prophecy was to have been impressed too. Also, as Ezekiel is taken on this tour and verbally related it (before writing it down), it may have been a "you had to be there" kind of experience, where it was so well communicated orally that it was actually like being there. To alter an idiom, the hearers may have been "spirit-bound."

Second, in the measurements there is repetition. Verse 28 says the south gate was the same size as the other gates, but even here, the angel measured it first. You find eight steps a lot. There is apparently an order and symmetry about everything. It might be worth it to pull up the diagram of the Millennial Temple and to make arrows as you read to trace Ezekiel's journey.

Third, why all the mention of sacrifices? If you use the link I gave you yesterday, you will not only see more diagrams, but on page 1305, there is a discussion of why there could be sacrifices.

The sacrifices of Israel were never for the forgiveness of sins (only Christ's sacrifice could do that), but for a faith-inspired obedience looking for the future fulfillment of forgiven sin. For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. (Hebrews 10:4 ESV) For the church today, we have the Lord's Supper as a remembrance and memorial of what Jesus did. We are not Israel and so the Levitical sacrifices were not for us. Jesus did say that the celebration of the Lord's Supper was just until His return. Apparently in the Millennium, which will have a very Jewish focus to it; and in which, Israel will fulfill its service before the Lord, sacrifices will be a memorial remembrance of what Christ did on the cross. The sacrifices belong to the Jews and this will be a way for them to celebrate and remember His sacrifice.

As for the need of a memorial to remember Christ's death, even though Jesus is there, remember that once the Tribulation is over and Jesus is sitting on the throne, people will begin to see Him as any other political figure. Pictures of Him will look like a man. The Millennium will be 1000 years. After twenty years people will forget what happened and a new generation will grow up only hearing about the Tribulation and Christ's coming. There will still be sin in each person, and each person will have to believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God who died to save them. One of the purposes of the Millennium will be to prove to mankind that our real problem is sin, not Satan. Satan will be bound for those thousand years, but rebellion toward "that guy on the throne" will grow. Therefore, in Jerusalem all nations will be told to come to visit and to take part in the memorial commemorating the sacrificial death of the Lamb of God. Apparently toward the end of the Millennium, some nations/people will refuse. See Zechariah 14:16-17.

Ezekiel 40:28-49

Vs. 28-31 From the south gate of the outer court, the angel led Ezekiel across the outer court to the south gate of the inner court. This gate was a mirror image of the south gate of the outer court, that is, identical but exactly the opposite. If you look at the diagram you can see this. To get into the temple you had to go up eight steps. I have a feeling that with the Lord present there will be little concern for handicapped friendly structures.

Vs. 32-34 Now in the inner court, Ezekiel is led from the south gate to the east gate.

Vs. 35-37 This is now the north gate. If you're looking at the diagram, you can see that they have made a semi-circle around the altar.

Vs. 38-43 If I understand this properly, the vestibule of the gates to the inner court are the large opening on the inside of the gate, like a foyer or entry way, as you enter from the outer court. This is where the sacrifices would be killed and prepared for sacrifice. Again, this sacrifice will only be in memorial. It is funny to think that people will need any memorial, but even though they will have Jesus there, they still have to believe that he died for them and rose again. Once people see Jesus, as time goes on for 1000 years, I'm sure because of sin, people will treat Jesus as common place. The memorial sacrifices are to help people remember that it took a death and blood to purchase their redemption. Still, when Satan is released after 1000 years, he will find rebellious hearts all over the planet. See Revelation 20:7-9.

Vs. 44-47 These are chambers for priests to make themselves ready. I doubt they'll have Coke machines and candy bar machines in there, but who knows.

Vs. 48-49 Now Ezekiel is standing before the steps leading into the temple proper.

Ezekiel 41

The Millennial Temple proper

Vs. 1-4 So what happens here is that the angel takes Ezekiel into the temple proper. The link above is Wikipedia. Scroll down and on the right there is a drawing in gold. The gold hall is the temple and Ezekiel was led into it from below. The angel led Ezekiel through the entry or nave. Since Ezekiel was a priest, he could go into the large long room, the outer sanctuary; but only the angel could go into the inner room, the Most Holy Place. The doorways get progressively narrower. This is in the description, but you'll see it if you look at the diagram. The diagram in the Bible Knowledge Commentary is much better, but it isn't available online.

Vs. 5-11 These are three levels of side rooms for storage. I can't visualize this, especially how to get to those rooms.

V. 12 This huge room is mentioned, but it is never said what goes on in there. Is it a spare room or will someone live in it?

Vs. 13-26 In the temple, in the room before the Holy of Holies, there was a lot of carving of palm trees and cherubim. The only piece of furniture is a wooden table. Interestingly, it is not covered with gold like the furniture in the tabernacle was. In the tabernacle and temple, in the Holy Place before the Holy of Holies, there was a lampstand, the table of the bread of the Presence and the altar of incense. All of these were made with or covered with gold. Some might suggest that this is the altar of incense, but that isn't said to be its purpose. It is simply the wooden table that is before the Lord. Maybe it's the first table Jesus made as a carpenter.

Nothing is described inside the Holy Place where the ark of the covenant stood. The ark has been missing since the days of Hezekiah or Manasseh. Thanks to Indiana Jones, we know the ark is safely hidden in some undisclosed government warehouse, probably in Ohio.

We are not yet done with all of the descriptions, but it is safe to assume that when the people and leaders got all of this information, they began asking their own questions and trying to understand the shapes and dimensions of everything. And to think, this will stand for 1000 years, and then come the new heavens and new earth.

James 4

Vs. 1-4 We have seen the idea of adultery used before. It signals the idea of belonging to God, but living by one's own desires and so using His blessings to live for ourselves. Being faithful means that our devotion should be wholly for the Lord. If something else takes the place in our hearts that only God should own, He calls that adultery. We normally face these temptations, but in stress and hard times, the temptation only grows deeper. We read about church fighting in 1 Corinthians 3:1-3. Paul's comment to them was that they were not behaving like spiritual men, but as men of the flesh, as babes in Christ. I think that is what was happening here too.

Remember too that in Hebrews 10:34, it mentions that at one time, in those early days of faith, those believers were willing to allow their property to be taken. That was no longer the case with the Hebrews and I'm guessing it was not the situation here either. They had been mature, but regressed. Hard times, without a fresh love for Christ ruling our hearts, can make us redefine following Christ to include a life lived for earth stuff and to exclude carrying a cross.

Also, Jesus mentioned to His disciples that when they faced persecution, the hardship would cause many professing believers to … fall away and betray one another and hate one another. (Matthew 24:10 ESV) I think this is what was happening to these believers as they faced persecution.

Vs. 5-10 This makes me think of Paul's reminders to the Christians in 1 Corinthians 3:16 and 6:19, that their body was a temple of the Holy Spirit. God jealously watches over His own. The rest of this sounds like Peter talking about our adversary the Devil (1Peter 5:8) and humbling ourselves under the mighty hand of God (1 Peter 5:6). Not only did these apostles know one another and face similar problems in churches, they were all inspired by the same Author of the Bible.

Vs. 11-12 In those same lessons to His disciples Jesus warned His disciples about condemning and judging others (Luke 6:37). When our hearts hold on to stuff, and when we cannot accept that God brings hard circumstances into our lives to show His love through us, we become angry, bitter and complaining toward others and toward God too.

Vs. 13-17 As those who were dead and have been given life by the death and resurrection of our Savior, it ought to be a crime to live for ourselves and not for Him. This is the intent here. Our lives are not our own and the life we live is to be lived following the Spirit, not our plans. As Paul said to Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:4, we live under the orders of the One who enlisted us, and our life's desire should be to satisfy Him. In this case here, it appears that these are rich people who were living above the circumstances because of their money. Therefore, they didn't have to be dependent on God for how they lived or for what they wanted.

To me it is interesting to see that all of the discipleship teaching of Jesus, Paul, and James flows together. The look and adornments of our cultures have changed, but disciples today face the same debilitating temptations to become neutralized as disciples did back then.

Psalm 118:19-29

Vs. 19-20 You have to admit it is a little coincidental that we're reading so much about the temple structure, and here we have gates and a stone and an entrance of a king. The joy and thanksgiving is because of this king, and the way to enter into God's presence is by giving thanks expressed with joy. This desire to enter into the presence of the Lord is always found in David. His ultimate desire was to be with God. Long years of running created this longing in his heart.

Vs. 21-23 These verses must have applied to David. Saul and his men wanted to get rid of David, but as often as they tried to reject him, kill him and drive him off, God kept bringing David back and saving him. Isn't it amazing then that Jesus and Peter quoted these verses regarding the Jews casting away their Messiah?

V. 24 The day when that rejected cornerstone was exalted was a great day.

V. 25 And so where does that success and salvation come from?

V. 26 This is what Jesus said the people would cry out during the Tribulation, showing their humility in needing Him. Their shouting of this prayer will begin the process of His return to Jerusalem. It will begin the salvation and success of the future Israel.

V. 27 God made His face to shine upon us by binding the sacrifice, figuratively speaking, to the horns of the altar. The horns of the altar were to be grasped by those pleading for mercy and forgiveness. How could David have had these thoughts other than the Holy Spirit inspiring him?

Vs. 28-29 This seems to be the universal praise of the redeemed and those who follow in the harvest.

What a great psalm! He'll return in the future and today we have the joy of letting people know they need to be ready.

Proverbs 28:3-5

These verses continue the theme of a land full of transgression.

V. 3 In this land, the poor have no compassion for other poor.

V. 4 The heroes of this land are like the people praising them, the wicked. But there are still people who keep the laws and work against this lawlessness.

V. 5 Seeking the Lord is what keeps the disciples on target, knowing right from wrong when everyone else has no clue.

In all of this, it shows the importance of those who know the Lord to be active, reaching out and making disciples who make disciples.

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

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

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

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

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