Christadelphians Talk

A @Christadelphians Video: # YouTube Video Description**One In Christ: Complimentary Roles #4 'Mothers of Millions' with Bible Student Mark O'Grady**What does Scripture truly say about the role of mothers? In this thought-provoking and deeply insightful exposition, we explore one of the most beautiful and often misunderstood themes in the Bible—motherhood as God intended it.Join us as we journey from Genesis to the Gospels, uncovering the wonderful truth that motherhood is not a second-rate role but a divine calling central to God's purpose for humanity. This outstanding presentation will challenge worldly perspectives and inspire you to esteem the faithful labour of mothers who build their houses brick by brick.**What you'll discover:**- The true meaning of 1 Timothy 2:15 and why it's a blessing, not a burden- How Eve's name "Life" points to redemption- The powerful imagery of the wise woman building her house (Proverbs 14:1)- Why fathers must honour and support the mother's God-given authority- The profound link between childbirth pains and the hope of resurrectionThis revealing study shows how the physical role of motherhood becomes a glorious metaphor for our shared destiny in Christ—suffering giving way to eternal joy.##

The above words jumped out at us in 1 Peter 1 v.13.  What action?  In one sense, each morning we need to prepare our minds for action each day, to make that day count in service before God. Believers through the centuries have encountered times of crisis and a climax in their lives.  The Jewish exiles to whom Peter was writing were suffering persecution, probably  because of the rebellion of the Jews in Jerusalem against Rome in AD 67-70. Yet for the truly faithful these were also occasions of deliverance – even if that deliverance should be – being taken out of this life as happened to Stephen, the first martyr (Acts 7 v.60). Peter writes of those “who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” [v.5]  “Your faith has saved you” is a phrase in one form or another we often encounter in the New Testament.  We sense that this will be particularly true in the final years of human rule on this earth.  It is increasingly apparent that we live in those years.  Now note what Peter further writes, “if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials so that the tested genuineness of your faith – more precious than gold … may be found to result in praise and glory and honour at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” [v.6,7].  Peter writes of the time when those with such a faith will “rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith” [v.8,9].Our Isaiah reading (Ch.35) has wonderful words about this time when the faithful “come to Zion with singing: everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain gladness and joy, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away” [v.10]  So let us, start each day, by preparing our minds for action “having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth …” [1 Peter 1 v.22], an obedience shown by our love for one another “earnestly from a pure heart … through the living and abiding word of God” [v.22] which we must make sure we feed on every day. 

A @Christadelphians Video: **YouTube Video Description**Join us for this **thought-provoking** and **insightful** exposition of the Bible's design for wives within the marriage relationship. In this **outstanding** study, Bible Student Mark O'Grady unpacks the **wonderful** principles from Genesis, Ephesians and 1 Peter, showing how **revealing** God's original plan transforms our homes and reflects the relationship between Christ and the ecclesia. From the foundation of companionship and helpmeet, to the beauty of a meek and quiet spirit, this session is a powerful encouragement for every believer.**Chapters**00:00 – Introduction: The wonderful role of wives01:05 – God's design for marriage from the beginning03:05 – Genesis 2: Companionship and a helpmeet05:09 – Sacrifice and care: lessons from Adam and Eve08:38 – Leadership and submission pre-date the Fall11:34 – Why Eve came from Adam: the divine pattern14:11 – Ephesians 5: Husbands reflecting Christ's love16:19 – 1 Peter 3: The true meaning of submission (in context)21:47 – Winning over a disobedient husband without a word26:18 – Biblical example 1: Moses' parents (faith together)29:33 – Biblical example 2: Hannah and Elkanah (working together)34:31 – Biblical example 3: The Shunammite woman (influencing the home)40:38 – The virtuous woman: a crown to her husband44:58 – A warning from Michal: rottenness to the bones45:42 – Husbands: dwell with understanding, give honour47:58 – Conclusion: heirs together of the grace of life**Bible Verse Categories**

Today we read the final chapter of James and his warning to the believers in Jerusalem, for some had “laid up treasure in the last days.” [v.3]  The “last days” facing Jerusalem, James knew, was the destruction that Jesus had foretold, the time when it would be surrounded by armies and “its desolation had come” and the Temple destroyed. [Luke 21 v.6, 20]  The immediate “last days” at that time, James knew, was God's vengeance on the people of Jerusalem for killing his Son – they saw their sense of glory as particularly relating to their possession of a most impressible Temple, even Jesus' disciples boasted of this (Mark 13 v.1).However, we perceive that many of the prophesied judgements by Jesus on Jerusalem also apply to God's judgements on the Gentiles at the time when the Jews have  returned and Jerusalem is re-established, a time when all nations, especially those around them are in trouble, read Luke 21 v.24-28.  James' vision clearly applies to our “last days” as well – so we should take his advice to “establish your hearts” [v.8] very much to heart. The chapter starts, “Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you.  Your riches have rotted …”  This reminds us of what we read last week in Isaiah 24 v.2,3.  Today the “riches” are very largely on paper, computer figures, with some having mountains of debt – it all seems ready to collapse, probably starting with Europe. So many, especially the apparently wealthy, live “in luxury and self-indulgence” [v.5]  Crime rates are mounting, so how relevant to us are James' words, “Be patient therefore brothers (& sisters) until the coming of the Lord” [v.7] The only true way to “be patient” and to “establish your hearts” is in the meditative reading and, discussion together as much as we can, of the word of God. This is the foundation to remaining steadfast.  Verse 11 tells us, “Behold, we consider those blessed who remain steadfast”  Let us make sure we are among the “blessed.”

A @Christadelphians Video: **Video Title:** One in Christ: Complimentary Roles #2 – ‘Sisters in Service' with Bible Student Mark O'GradyJoin us for this **thought-provoking** and **insightful** presentation as Bible Student Mark O'Grady continues our ‘Complimentary Roles' series. In this second session, ‘Sisters in Service', we turn our focus to the beautiful, God-given role of sisters within the ecclesia. This is not merely a study of function—it is an **expositional** look at the heart of true discipleship: the spirit of service.From the women who travelled with our Lord to the faithful sisters commended by Paul in Romans 16, we uncover a **wonderful** truth: service is not second‑rate in God's eyes. It is a **revealing** reflection of Christ Himself, who “came not to be ministered unto, but to minister”. We explore the practical care, unseen sacrifices, and spiritual depth of sisters like Priscilla, Phoebe, Mary, and Martha—learning that all genuine service begins at the feet of Jesus.Whether you are a brother or sister, this study will challenge and inspire you to embrace a servant's heart, support one another, and recognise the **outstanding** contribution of sisters in God's family.

A @Christadelphians Video: **Video Description**Join us for this thought-provoking and expositional study, *“One in Christ: Complimentary Roles #1 – ‘One in Christ Jesus'”* with Bible student Mark O'Grady. In this outstanding opening session, we explore the biblical foundation for the roles of men and women, answering the vital question: why is our whole community depicted in Scripture as a woman?We begin in Genesis, seeing that God's purpose and hope are identical for both male and female – we are all one in Christ Jesus. Yet, as we examine the whole of Scripture, an overwhelmingly male focus emerges, alongside explicit instructions about headship and submission. Rather than being a cultural relic, we reveal how these principles are woven into creation itself – from Adam being formed first, to Eve as a “help meet”, and the beautiful symbolism of the sun and the moon.This insightful presentation addresses modern challenges, the meaning of true leadership as service, and the wonderful complementarity of male and female brains – designed by God to work together. Most powerfully, we discover that the biblically defined role of women is not a put-down, but a transcendent calling to depict the relationship between God and His people. “The Maker is thy husband” (

The letter of James is full of challenging spiritual statements.  Many are applicable to the world which surrounds us. James was writing at the time when Jerusalem was about to be destroyed as his half-brother (our Lord) had warned.  The great majority had rejected the divine message, it is evident that, 30+ years after their Lord ascended to heaven the convictions and commitment of believers was in serious decline.What James writes is also appropriate for the world today and the spirit among many who consider themselves believers, “You ask and do not receive,” he declares, “because you ask wrongly to spend it on your passions…. Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? [4 v.3,4] What he writes next reminds us of what Paul said to the people of Athens – about the unseen presence of the only real God, encouraging them to “feel their way toward him and find him.  Yet he is actually not far from each one of us, for ‘In him we live and move and have our being'”  [Acts 17 v.27,28] Compare this with what James told believers in Jerusalem about God, “'He yearns jealously over the spirit that he has made to dwell in us?'” [Ch. 4 v.5]   The Creator of all things, it is clear, sees and knows all. In Judges we read about Gideon; in his days the people had largely forgotten their history, especially the faith that Moses and Joshua inspired in them as they started to possess the promised land. The nation was in deep trouble, Gideon had an astonishing encounter with an angel of the LORD and asked him, “if the LORD is with us why has all this happened …” [6 v.13]  We know the reason, few in our world will know the reason when our world starts to really fall apart.   Finally, what Isaiah writes in todays' ch. 33 is a sort of prayer, an inspiration that we can and should take to heart, “O LORD , be gracious to us,; we wait for you.  Be our arm every morning, our salvation in time of trouble.” [v.2] We all need to experience “friendship” How do we find ours? Does it sustain us spiritually?  Above all, how real in our divine relationship?   Is it “our arm every morning.”? 

A @Christadelphians Video: [Inspiring] In this thought-provoking and outstanding presentation, Brother Carl Parry delivers a revealing expositional study on the prophetic landscape of our times. With a focus on the tumultuous events unfolding in Europe and Russia, we delve into the Scriptures to understand how current geopolitical shifts align with the divine plan. This is a wonderful and insightful session that connects the dots between Daniel's prophecies, the turmoil in Ukraine, and the emerging alliances that set the stage for the return of our Lord. Join us as we navigate these distressing yet hope-filled times.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction03:04 - Setting the Prophetic Stage: Daniel 2 & Ezekiel 3804:00 - The Impact of the Ukrainian War on Russia08:57 - Russia's Military Strategy and the Shadow War15:47 - NATO's Dilemma and European Tensions24:44 - The Geopolitical Fracture of Europe30:17 - The EU, NATO, and the Undivided Roman Empire38:12 - The Frog Spirits of Revelation 16 and Rising Anti-Semitism44:55 - The Three Centers: The Beast, The False Prophet, and The Dragon47:47 - Tarshish and Her Young Lions: Britain, America, and Australia51:45 - A World in Perplexity and Our Call to Look Up58:53 - Conclusion: Our Redemption Draweth Nigh**Bible Verse References:**

A @Christadelphians Video: **[Inspiring]**In this thought-provoking exposition, we delve into one of the most pressing questions for believers today: Why is Christianity so divided? With an insightful journey from the pages of the New Testament through centuries of church history, we uncover the Biblical warnings about apostasy and reveal how many mainstream doctrines actually originated outside of Scripture. Join us for a powerful call to return to the Bible as our sole authority.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction: A Landscape of Division01:07 - The Bible's Claim: Our Complete Guide02:54 - Does Unity of Belief Matter?03:28 -

"The Biblical teaching of Unitarianism (One God) versus the teaching of Trinitarianism (3 gods) is outlined. The word "trinity" or related words are not found in the Bible. This teaching only surfaced around AD 350-381. The Bible affirms monotheism not polytheism."Inspiring, What if the most widely held belief about God isn't actually found in the Bible? In this thought-provoking and deeply insightful exposition, we embark on a journey through Scripture to examine the foundations of Trinitarianism versus the Biblical Unitarian position. This is not an attack on sincere believers, but a heartfelt and respectful exploration of what the Bible actually teaches about the Father and His Son.This outstanding presentation moves beyond simple proof-texting to reveal the historical development of the Trinity, the philosophical challenges it presents, and the wonderful, plain reading of Scripture that points to one God, the Father, and one Lord Jesus Christ, His exalted Son. We delve into the concept of divine agency, the personification of wisdom, and the revealing truth of what the early church truly believed.If you have ever wondered why the word "Trinity" isn't in the Bible, or how a plain reading of Acts 2 or 1 Corinthians 15 shapes our understanding of who Jesus is, this video is for you. It's a wonderful opportunity to see the cohesive and logical beauty of the Unitarian understanding of God's plan.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction: A Respectful Approach to a Difficult Subject02:08 - Playing Offense: Why We Don't Hold to the Trinity03:22 - The Missing Word: "Trinity" and Later Creeds05:40 - Peter's Testimony: A Plain Reading of Acts 208:27 - When Did the Theory Arise? Historical Truth vs. False Narratives11:30 - The Influence of Philosophy and Pagan Metaphysics13:55 - The Loss of Jewish Influence and the Rise of New Ideas14:36 - The Late Addition of the Holy Spirit as a "Person"15:51 - What Did the Ancients Believe? Jewish Monotheism17:18 - The Paralyzed Man: Authority, Not Divinity22:17 - The Centurion's Faith: Understanding Delegated Authority24:09 - Jesus' Own Words: "My God and Your God"25:00 - The Logical Inconsistencies of the Trinity29:55 - The Attributes of God vs. The Experience of Jesus32:32 - The "Two Natures" Theory and Its Problems35:23 - The Revealing Concept of Divine Agency40:25 - Personification in Scripture: Wisdom and God's Attributes41:45 - Being "Sent": Commission, Not Spatial Travel43:30 - Joseph: A Powerful Type of Christ44:54 - The Problem of Changed Meanings: How Words Shifted46:08 - The "I Am" Phrase: A Self-Identification Idiom48:17 - Translation Bias: How Versions Can Influence Doctrine53:15 - Christ's Current and Future Position: Subordinate and Glorified54:48 - Why It All Matters: Truth, Atonement, and Our Mediator57:49 - Conclusion: Knowing the Only True God and Jesus Christ Whom He Sent

**Video Title:** The Christadelphians – #14 'The Holy Spirit' – Harry Tennant**Description:**In this outstanding and revealing presentation, we—your Christadelphian brothers and sisters—delve into the biblical truth about the Holy Spirit. What is the Holy Spirit? Is it a separate person, or the radiant power of God Himself? Drawing from Scripture alone, brother Harry Tennant provides a wonderfully clear, insightful, and thought-provoking exposition that will transform your understanding of how God works in creation, revelation, redemption, and in our daily walk of faith.From the very beginning, we see the Spirit of God moving in creation, sustaining all things, and later inspiring the prophets to write the infallible Word. This same Spirit was focalised in the life, miracles, death, and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ—and now, through the gospel message, it convicts, begets new life, and produces the fruit of righteousness in every believer. We also explore the privilege of prayer, the ministry of angels, and the sword of the Spirit—the Word of God—that empowers us to resist temptation.Whether you are new to these truths or seeking a deeper, Bible-based understanding, this wonderful study will strengthen your faith and draw you closer to our Heavenly Father.**Chapters:**00:00 – Introduction: What is the Holy Spirit? 01:06 – Clearing the Confusion: Holy Ghost vs Holy Spirit 02:38 – Biblical Descriptions of the Holy Spirit 03:45 – The Spirit in Creation and Sustaining All Things 06:13 – The Spirit: God's Radiant Power, Not a Separate Person 06:58 – Revelation of Scripture by the Holy Spirit 08:40 – Resisting the Holy Spirit Through the Ages 10:41 – Miracles and Wonders by God's Power 12:50 – The Holy Spirit Focused in the Life of Christ 14:32 – Christ's Resurrection by the Power of God 15:52 – The Exalted Christ as a Life-Giving Spirit 18:31 – Christ: The Source of Everlasting Salvation 19:37 – The Spirit Empowers the Apostles 21:56 – The Word of the Spirit Brings New Birth 24:33 – Walking in the Spirit and Its Fruit 26:18 – The Message of Salvation: God's Power 28:25 – Renewing Your Mind Through God's Word 29:29 – Angels as Ministering Spirits 30:22 – The Privilege of Prayer and Christ's Intercession 32:58 – The Sword of the Spirit: God's Word in Temptation 34:54 – Bold Access to God's Throne of Grace 35:42 – Conclusion: God's Unfailing Presence and Care **Key Bible Verses:**

A @Christadelphians Video: [Inspiring] **Thought-Provoking & Insightful Video Summary** Join **We**, the Christadelphians, as we dive into the **outstanding** and often overlooked topic of **Bible translators and diversity** in this **revealing** expositional study. Have you ever wondered why there are so many versions of the Bible? This session unpacks how translation committees—and their diverse backgrounds—profoundly shape the Scriptures we read today. We explore the **wonderful** advantages of committee translations (guarding against bias, considering many opinions, catching errors) alongside the challenges (majority rules, less consistency). Using vivid examples from Jonah and Micah, we see how even a single Hebrew word like *olam* can be translated differently, affecting our understanding of prophecy and the Messiah. This is a **must-watch** for anyone seeking a richer, more informed approach to Bible reading.**Chapters** 00:00 - Introduction: Why translators and diversity matter 02:05 - The committee's influence: Majority rules and what gets lost 04:30 - A personal translation experiment (Jonah 1:1-4) 07:10 - Comparing the KJV, NIV, ESV, and NASB on Micah 5:2 10:30 - The Hebrew word *olam*: “Forever” or “ancient times”? 12:50 - How the NIV translators handled Micah 5:2 (and the minority view) 14:30 - Advantages of translation committees (4 key benefits) 16:00 - Disadvantages of committees (less consistency, less freedom) 17:30 - Conclusion & next session: Guarding against bias through diversity**Bible Verse Category**

**YouTube Summary/Description**We invite you to watch this deeply moving and thought-provoking tribute to our beloved brother in Christ, Uncle John Martin (1931–2021). This wonderful memorial video captures the heart of a man whose passionate, expositional teaching brought the Scriptures to life for so many. Through revealing personal recollections and powerful clips, you'll witness how Uncle John's love for God's Word—and his rare gift for making Bible characters like Elijah, Samson, and our Lord Jesus Christ resonate across generations—has left an indelible mark on our community. His insightful method of unlocking Bible echoes and his unwavering commitment to the truth continue to inspire us. Join us as we celebrate a life prioritised by faith and family, and reflect on the lasting legacy of a brother who simply wanted us all to read, love, and live by every word of God.**Chapters**00:00 – Introduction: Remembering Uncle John 01:11 – A Life Prioritised by Faith and Family 06:57 – The Legendary June Weekends & the “Samson” Study 13:18 – Bringing Elijah to Life: A Teenager's Turning Point 19:50 – The Influence of Brother John Carter & Bible Method 28:54 – Personal Memories, Humour, and Heartfelt Stories 44:45 – A Vision of the Kingdom (Zechariah 8) 48:14 – A Solemn Warning: Humanism & Righteousness 53:34 – Conclusion: Looking Forward to the Resurrection

Our chapter (32) in Isaiah starts, “Behold a king will reign in righteousness, and princes will rule in justice.”  This surely visualises God's king, the Lord Jesus, at last reigning over the earth.   There will also be “princes” reigning  who ”will rule with justice.” At last the world will experience true justice.  The words of the prophecy imply the “reign” will initially be against a scene in which the world has become “a dry place” and “a weary land” [v.2]The “princes” who “will rule” will provide “a shelter from the storm” that occurs as the world is transformed and comes to accept the fact that there is an all-righteous king reigning. True justice will at last happen, “the fool will no more be called noble, nor the scoundrel said to be honourable.” [v.5]   Human hearts will no longer be “busy with iniquity to practice ungodliness, to utter error concerning the LORD.” [v.6] May we, by the grace of God, be there among the “noble (who) plan noble things…” [v.8]  The time will  then develop “when the effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness quietness and trust forever” [v.17]    Jesus told his disciples, “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.” [Matt. 19 v.28]   In Revelation he said, “The one who conquers and who keeps my works until the end, to him I will give authority over the nations” [Rev 2 v.26], surely these are the “princes” mentioned in our Isaiah chapter who “will rule with justice” as we read in v. 2..We must make sure we are God's people now who “hold the faith in Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory” [James 2 v.1, also today's reading].  And then in that day, looking at v.18 in our Isaiah chapter, we will be among those of whom God says, “My people will abide in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places.”  

The letter of James, after words of greeting in the first verse, then gives some blunt but valuable advice, “Count it all joy, my brothers (and sisters), when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.  And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete …”Count it all joy!!  James, we conclude, means ‘spiritual joy' in the heart.  Can we not experience this, especially when we look back on a difficult series of events in our lives; should not at least some of the Israelites have felt this as they came to Mt. Sinai – and the disciples as they realized their Lord was alive again?  How the hearts of some burned within them.  What kind of joy is experienced in these situations?Then we note what James next states!  “and let steadfastness have its full effect that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing” [v.4]   Perfection!?  That is, perfect faith – that sees their life from the Lord's perspective – and in that way – lacks nothing that matters – especially in an eternal sense.  Even the events in the world are seen from this perspective – we know more and more surely that the Lord is in control. especially when we sense the divinely ordained end is near.  James then says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”[v.5]  But there is a vital qualification to this asking!  We must “ask in faith with no doubting” [v.6]  A person who doubts, in his approach to God, “must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord.” [v.7]   Our lives, our minds must have a constant ingredient of genuine faith in them.  James stresses that those who do not have this – increasingly have minds that are “driven and tossed” like the sea waves, he (or she) says James “is a double minded man, unstable in all his ways.”[v.8]Our world tempts us, tests us, toward double-mindedness.  Let us fix in our minds the outstanding message of James that when we “meet trials of various kinds” we “count it all joy” because we see our lives from God's perspective.  We take comfort from the lessons of the past, the trials of faith that should have strengthened us.  In a few days we will read Peter's first epistle, let us note his words, that we must live “as good stewards of God's varied grace … as one who serves by the strength that God supplies.”[4 v.10,11]

Once again God's words through Isaiah attracted our thoughts.  There are so many parallels today with the attitudes the LORD was seeking to counteract in Israel in the time of Isaiah.  The message the prophet was to convey was, “For thus said the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel, ‘In returning (or repentance, mg) and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.' But you were unwilling …” [30 v.15]In v. 18 this is repeated with added emphasis, “… the LORD waits to be gracious to you, and therefore he exalts himself to show mercy to you.  For the LORD is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for him.”  We see that the LORD's words to the people through Isaiah have remarkable parallels in the words of Jesus – remember the invitations to the wedding banquet – and the poor response – see Matt 22 v.3 and John's record of Jesus saying, “the Scriptures … bear witness about me, yet you refuse to come to me … you do not have the love of God within you.” [John 5 v.39-41]  What would he say to you?As we read each day – let us make sure we see the “witness” of the Scriptures.  There are also some thought parallels in today's final chapter in Hebrews, “Keep your life free from the love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you or forsake you.' So that we can confidently say, the Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?'” [v.5,6]  Paul writes of the sacrifices we should make, to be content, to have no love of money.  He reminds and stresses, our Lord sacrificed himself “in order to sanctify the people through his own blood” [v.12]  And then v.15 should jump out to attract our thoughts, “Through him then let us continually offer a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name … for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” [v.16] Let us make sure they are pleasing to us – and come genuinely from our hearts – a contrast to the noise and show in the Temple in the days of Isaiah, Jesus and Paul; learning that “in quietness and in trust shall be (y)our strength.”

How many can read the Bible – as a whole – and really make sense of it, so that it speaks to them in their heart, and stirs them to live their lives really conscious of God and of his Son?  This question came to mind as we pondered the message in Isaiah today – parts of it evidently a commentary on the attitudes of many in the prophets' day, many had failed to develop a real ‘living' relationship with God.After recording a vision of what will happen to people at the time when “the multitude of all the nations be that fight against Mount Zion …”  This vision “shall be like a dream, a vision in the night” [29 v.8] In v.11 the condemnation is  made, “the vision of all this has become to you like the words of a book that is sealed” [v.11].  The people are like those who refuse to read “when men give it to one who can read, saying ‘Read this,' he says, ‘I cannot, for it is sealed.'”But it is clear that this is an excuse – for a remarkable statement is made in v.13 &14  “And the Lord said, ‘Because this people draw near to me with their mouth and honour me with their lips, while their hearts are far from me, and their fear of me is a commandment taught by men …. the wisdom of their wise men shall perish …”  It is human wisdom that perishes, they are told they “turn things upside down!  Shall the potter be regarded as the clay,   that the thing made should say of its maker, ‘He did  not make me'” [v.16] – today many would add – ‘I just evolved.'How well these words apply to the human ‘wisdom' of today – God's word is “a book that is sealed” . We must remember that there is no middle path – if we do not apply our minds to the true meaning of God's words then it “is sealed” for us.  The day is coming, God's word says, as we read on in v.19 & 20, when “the meek shall obtain fresh joy in the LORD and the poor among mankind shall exult in the Holy One of Israel. For the ruthless shall come to nothing and the scoffer cease.”   There is no point in being aware of the vision of God's ultimate action against the nations of the earth if we only “honour” God “with our lips” refusing to apply our minds to unseal his book. 

Today we read the well known 11th chapter of Hebrews, it starts, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.”  This is the vital lesson we must take to heart in reading this chapter – that having faith is having a state of mind that must cause us to lead different lives, different priorities – to have different aims. We live our lives in service to our Saviour – accomplishing things in his service.  Read the chapter, noticing how often the words “By faith” occur.  “By faith Noah …by faith Abraham …  by faith Sarah …”Our faith is not just something we talk about – or listen to others talking about.  We read today of many examples of men and women of faith, highlighting in many cases some particular deed that proved the nature of their faith.  It is most valuable to look on into the first 2 verses of tomorrow's chapter., it starts “Therefore” – therefore we should put the chapter break after verse 2.  “Therefore since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses (all those examples of men and women of faith in ch. 11), let us also lay aside every weight and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith …”  We must each search our hearts as to how effectively we are living our lives so that he sees that our faith has developed real strength, that we have acquired a real sense of teamwork with our Saviour and our God. That our lives demonstrate that we are “working together with him” [2 Cor. 6 v.1] May we all be able to look back on our lives, on our journey in developing greater and greater faith to see how we have been “made strong out of weakness” [v.34] because we have developed a real “conviction of things not seen” and “we are not of those who shrink back … but of those who have faith and preserve their souls.” [10 v.39] 

Our Isaiah and Hebrews readings provide an abundance of thoughts today.  Some verses encourage peace of mind, others a sense of awe at what is coming on the world – the judgements our godless world deserves.  Ch. 26 in Isaiah is a grouping of quite contrasting revelations from God – verses 3 and 4 are worthy of being memorised. “You will keep him (her) in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he (she) trusts in you.  Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD GOD is an everlasting rock.”  How wonderful to have a mind that is “stayed on” God, the only foundation for “perfect peace” in a world which knows no peace: no peace between nations – yes – but more vital than that – no trust and peace between individuals. The reign of Jesus returned to the earth will see the time “when your judgements are in the earth, the inhabitants of the earth learn righteousness…” [v.9]  But at the moment, as in Isaiah's day, “O LORD your hand is lifted up, but they do not see it.” [v.11].  May we “see” the Lord's hand so that the next verse is true for us, “O LORD, you will ordain peace for us; you have done for us all our works.” [v.12] because those works have been done in the strength that God gives to us – and then we will heed the warning given in v.20,21 “… my people, enter your chambers, and shut your doors behind you; hide yourselves for a little while until the fury has passed by.  For behold the LORD is coming out from his place to punish the inhabitants of the earth …”There are words in our Hebrews reading which dovetail in with these;  “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works … encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” [ch. 10 v.23-25]  This is the only way to achieve and maintain “perfect peace.” 

A @Christadelphians Video: *[Inspiring] Join us in this thought-provoking episode of the Watchman Report as we explore the fascinating role of Yemen in Bible prophecy. We provide an insightful, expositional journey from its ancient biblical identity as 'Sheba' to its current place in a turbulent Middle East, and reveal its wonderful, prophesied future in the Kingdom of God.**Chapters:*00:00 - Introduction: A Biblical Standpoint on World News00:24 - Yemen's Geography and Modern Conflict00:42 - Ezekiel 38: The Great Invasion & Sheba's Objection01:26 - The Queen of Sheba and Yemen's Ancient Identity02:11 - British Influence and Yemen's Modern History02:58 - The Rise of the Houthis and Ongoing Civil War03:45 - Current Tensions and International Stance04:22 - Prophetic Alignment: Yemen's Future Voice04:45 - Psalm 72 & Isaiah 60: Yemen's Glorious Future Under Christ05:52 - Conclusion and Final Encouragement*Key Bible Verses:*

Here's a YouTube summary and description written from the perspective of ‘We' (Christadelphians), using British English spelling and the required elements.---**Video Title:** The Christadelphians: #13 A Priest Forever – Harry Tennant**Description:**In this **outstanding** and **thought-provoking** presentation, we explore a question that lies at the very heart of God's purpose: *Who will be the promised King?* If human sinfulness doomed Israel's kingdom, how can anything better emerge? The answer is **revealing** and breathtaking.Join us as we trace the golden thread of prophecy from Jacob's blessing over Judah to God's unbreakable covenant with David. We then examine Nebuchadnezzar's dream—a **wonderful**, divinely given panorama of world empires—and the mysterious stone that smashes them all. This stone, we learn, is none other than Christ Himself, the Priest-King forever.This **expositional** journey is packed with **insightful** connections between Genesis, Ezekiel, Daniel and the New Testament, demonstrating that God's Kingdom on earth with Christ as King is the Bible's clearest hope. If you long for a world of righteousness and peace, this video will inspire and strengthen your faith.**

A @Christadelphians Video: [Inspiring] **Ai Summary** – Thought-provoking, insightful, and wonderfully expositional, this outstanding episode of *The Bible Standard* reveals why humility is essential when wrestling with Scripture's most puzzling passages. We, as Christadelphians, explore the strange case of King Saul's age—does the Hebrew really say he was one year old?—and the textual twists behind Lamentations 3: “we are not consumed.” We also dive into the cutting‑edge debate over Greek verbs: do they really tell us *when* something happened, or just *how* the author saw it? This is a wonderfully revealing journey into the “things we still don't know,” reminding us that following God is a process of continual learning, not stagnant certainty.**

A Christadelphian Video:In this interview, Justin Reich talks about how he came into the Truth, having not been brought up as a Christadelphian. Having been encouraged to come along to Christadelphian events by his aunt and uncle, Justin highlights the need for good influences, and the importance of perceiving what the Word of God has to offer, in contrast to the world.Justin's experiences demonstrate the need for everyone to engage with the comforting message of the Bible, and the fact that God is always helping us to grow in every circumstance of life. Justin has some sound advice for those wishing to share the Gospel, and also for those who are on their own journey of discovering the wonderful truth contained within Scripture and the beauty of fellowship with like-minded believers.

Let us link up the closing words of our reading in Hebrews (ch.9) “Christ … will appear a second time … to save those who  are eagerly waiting for him” with the words God gave to Isaiah, in today's ch. 25, which we referred to yesterday.  This describes the time when God “will swallow up death forever; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from all faces, and the reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth …”  It will be said on that day, ‘Behold, this is our God; we have waited for him … let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation.” [v.8,9]How eagerly are we waiting?  Is the world around us full of ways of living that attract us, things that largely or fully occupy our minds?  Yes, we have to live in the world and earn our living, but are we keenly interested in the vision God's word provides for us that goes far beyond the present materialistic way of thinking and doing?  We are forced to admit that this computer communication age, which is very helpful in many ways, is also very distracting – do we need to allow it to be totally distracting?  The more our minds feed on God's word the more we will be attracted to that word.  In that coming day, the LORD tells us through Isaiah, the redeemed will say, “O LORD, you are my God; I will exalt you … for you have done wonderful things, plans formed of old, faithful and sure … Therefore strong peoples will glorify you; cities of ruthless nations will fear you.” [v.1,3] At that time those who have been “eagerly waiting” and showing this by their priorities in life will “be glad and rejoice”. Peter in his 1st epistle, which we will soon read,  expresses this powerfully, “Though you do not now see him, you believe him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith …” [1 Pet. 1 v.8,9]  Imagine the joy?  Imagine the glory?Finally, note the point Paul made earlier in Hebrews ch. 9!  “How much more will the blood of Christ who … offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God.” [v.14]   If we do not sense our progress in that purifying and, as a result, serving, then we have to ask ourselves, ‘Do I genuinely belong to Christ?' 

Today's and tomorrow's chapters in Isaiah (24 & 25) contain a powerful message about the climax of human history, yet they are not very often quoted.   Chapter 24 ends with “for the LORD of hosts reigns on Mount Zion and Jerusalem and his glory will be before his elders.”  The next chapter begins with the reaction of the righteous, “O LORD, you are my God, I will exalt your name for you have done wonderful things …”  Humanly fortified cities have become ruins, never to be rebuilt (v.2) and the “cities of ruthless nations will fear you.” [v.3]  God has “been a stronghold to the poor … to the needy in his distress” [v.4]Then a glorious scene opens up, “On this mountain the LORD of hosts will make for all peoples a feast of rich food … he will swallow up death forever and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from all faces … Behold this is our God, we have waited for him … “ [v.6,8,9].    But go back, we jumped over nearly all of Ch. 24 – it speaks of what is to happen before this time of wonder and joy on the earth.  It is an extremely frightening picture!  Is it about to happen?  The chapter started, “Behold the LORD will empty the earth and make it desolate …”The next verse indicates that all the buyers, sellers, lenders, borrowers, creditors and debtors will suffer.  Verse 3 says, “The earth shall be utterly empty and utterly plundered; for the LORD has spoken this word”.  Then we read “the earth lies defiled under its inhabitants” [v.5], “its inhabitants suffer for their guilt” [v.6] and then follows details of the ways in which they will suffer.Reading further – “The earth is utterly broken … is violently shaken … its transgression lies heavily upon it and it falls and will not rise again” [v.19,20].  This is symbolic language of the heavens and the earth (rulers and people) that now exist being destroyed.  But later in Isaiah we will come across a wonderful vision, for God says, “For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth, and the former things shall not be remembered or come into mind. But be glad and rejoice forever in that which I create; for behold I create Jerusalem to be a joy  … my chosen shall long enjoy the work of their hands.” [Ch.65 v.17,18,22]  Will you behold these things?

We continue reading the challenging chapters of the letter to the Hebrews. It was obviously written in the final years the Temple existed in Jerusalem before it was destroyed in AD70. Those who made the Temple and the Mosaic Law a highly important part of their lives and expectations, although accepting Jesus as their Messiah, were going to be devastated when the Temple was destroyed.Paul, whom it is generally agreed wrote Hebrews, is making a most urgent appeal to these believers to realize that although “Moses was faithful in all God's house as a servant” this was “to testify to the things that were to be spoken later” [3 v.5] by God's son. Moses was God's “servant” – “but Christ is faithful over God's house as a son.” [v.6] The Law was “the house” Moses created, it had now been superseded by the work of Christ in creating a spiritual house “not made with hands” [2 Cor. 5 v.1] that could not be destroyed.“And we are his house if indeed we hold fast our confidence and our boasting (rejoicing –AV) in our hope” [Heb 3 v.6] Note that word “if” and that Psalm 95 is quoted twice, [3 v.7; 4 v.5] “Today, IF you will hear his voice”Today – in 2020 – let us “hold fast” to what we hear – and read. If we are not really listening and taking the message into our hearts and acting on it – then the message is no benefit to us. We noted verses 2 and 4 in ch. 4, “For good news came to us just as to them, but the message they heard did not benefit them, because they were not united by faith with those who listened.”Could this be true of us also? Are you united with others in the original faith? Note how the word “if” occurs in ch. 3 v.13,14; “But exhort one another every day as long as it is called ‘today' that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. For we share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original confidence firm to the end.” May “the message … benefit' us as ”every day” we seek exhortations as we read God's word.

Today's readings.. (Joshua 16), (Isaiah 22), (Hebrews 1,2) Today we began reading the specially thought-provoking letter to the Hebrews.  The author is not named, but the best conclusion is that Paul wrote it as a message to his fellow Jews and he didn't name himself because a prejudice against him had developed and some, maybe many Jews, would have ignored the letter if it had been obvious it came from him.  Now Paul had a special relationship with his Saviour because he appeared and spoke to him on the road to Damascus.  He is wonderfully conscious of the continuing unseen presence of Christ in his life and encourages his fellow  Hebrews to develop the same consciousness, he quotes many Old Testament passages from the Psalms and Moses' writings that foretold the special and wonderful role God's Son would have.  We see the emphasis in these two chapters of how he would first come into the world to die as a once and for all sacrifice for sins and also experience life as we do and so be able to understand and help us,We note in particular the closing verses in ch. 2 (from v.16) “For surely … he helps the offspring of Abraham.  Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people.  For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are tempted.  The Greek word, translated ‘tempted' essentially means ‘tested.' Yes, “he is able to help,” but we do not receive this help, this guiding oversight of our lives, unless we prayerfully seek it.  We will see Paul's warning in ch. 3, where, quoting David's words in Psalm 95, Paul says, “Today if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts…” [v.15]  It is God's ‘living word' that we read and ‘hear' – and “he is able to help” if we truly ‘listen' and respond.

Today's readings.. (Joshua 15), (Isaiah 20,21), (Philemon)The short letter of Paul to Philemon has some valuable lessons for us in the area of spiritual relationships of believers with one another.  Paul is writing as “a prisoner of Christ Jesus” [v.1] and Timothy is with him – and other visitors support him, “Mark, Aristarchus, Demas and Luke” [v.24]. He tells Philemon, “I remember you in my prayers.” (v.4)We meditate on what filled Paul's hours and days in his imprisonment, his mind was very much occupied with thoughts about the believers he knew and the news he hears about them. We  remember the dramatic night when he and Silas sang hymns while in prison, and we surely imagine him singing hymns with “Epaphras my fellow prisoner” [v.23]. How do we compare, we who are free to do as we please – does how we spend our time help or hinder our spiritual life?  We have to admit that, unless we are at some spiritual gathering, the events of our daily lives rarely help us spiritually; it is vital that we ask ourselves – do they hinder, do they undermine?  Paul is pleased with Philemon “because I hear of your love and the faith that you have toward the Lord Jesus and all the saints (fellow believers), and I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective …” [v.5,6]Would others hear the same sort of thing about us?  If not, what would they hear?  Would it have any effect on them in the sense of a good (or bad) example we set them? Paul is able to say to Philemon, “I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you.” [v.7]   Do we shed abroad a spirit that refreshes the hearts of other believers – so that we are a light that really shines in the increasing spiritual darkness of this world – the effect of that light being so good that even some unbelievers will notice?    Let us live so that we do this, it maybe that we do it unconsciously, only realizing the effect we have had as we look back on events.  And in communicating with fellow believers – and those who do not yet believe, which may include some of our children, we can state, “I remember you in my prayers.” 

Today's readings.. (Joshua 14), (Isaiah 19), (Titus 1,2,3)In Joshua ch. 14 today we read of the blessings received by a man who “wholly followed the LORD.”  Caleb was the other man, who with Joshua, spied out the land and brought back an optimistic report; this was after the people had miraculously escaped from Egypt, been fed in the wilderness, built the tabernacle and received the law. Surely the whole nation had evidence on which to base their faith – and today, God's book is available for all to read and provides much evidence to build up our faith.Caleb is now aged 85 and seeks his promised reward. We read his testimony to Joshua of the time “when Moses … sent me … to spy out the land, and I brought him word again as it was in my heart” [v.7] His was a good positive report, spoken in faith.  Sadly, he adds, “my brothers who went up with me made the heart of the people melt; yet I wholly followed the LORD” [v.8] A prophecy about Egypt features in our Isaiah chapter 19 – and today the Coptic Christians in their midst are an unhappy and somewhat persecuted minority. Verse 17 came remarkably true after Israel was re-established in 1947/48.  We read, “In that day the Egyptians will be like women and tremble with fear before the hand that the LORD of hosts shakes over them.  The land of Judah will become a terror to the Egyptians …” [v.16,17]  This never happened in history – until then!  But then Isaiah is caused to look further into the future to the time when “the LORD will make himself known to the Egyptians, and the Egyptians will know the LORD in that day and worship …” [v.21]  In that day all the world will become dramatically aware there is a Creator – and a divine law to be obeyed (see Isaiah 2 v.2,3)Let us “wholly follow the LORD” now, for, said Jesus, “blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” [John 20 v.29].  Caleb saw – yet in seeing he was aware of all the difficulties, but he “wholly followed the LORD”.  We see the unfolding fulfilment of prophecy, especially with Israel, as an aid to strengthening our faith; may we be able to say in that day, “yet I wholly followed the LORD”

Today's readings.. (Joshua 13), (Isaiah 17,18), (2 Timothy 3,4) Today we completed Paul's 2nd letter to his “son in the faith” Timothy. He deplores what he sees the future is going to hold for believers; a serious decline of faith and a Christ-like way of living.  As Paul looks into the future  “the Spirit” gives him a ‘picture' of what is going to develop in “the last days.” [3 v.1]   Paul of course has no idea as to how far off this future time is. But the description of this ‘time' that is revealed to him has a specific focus on the condition of believers: they “will be lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness but denying its power” [v.4,5]. The word “power” is the Gk word dunamis, it does not necessarily refer to something miraculous, earlier this month we saw Paul use it twice in his first chapter in writing to the Colossians, ”may you be strengthened with all power” [v.11]  “… I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me” [v.29] Believers need real energy of mind – and the real pursuit of godliness generates such power – spiritual strength of mind.   Paul told the Corinthians that the Lord said to him as he struggled with a divinely given “thorn in the flesh”, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” [2 Cor. 12 v.9]  Paul then adds, “Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me”   This is not power in the sense of miracle working, but inner strength developed through the reality of our relationship with our Lord and the Father.  We read 2 days ago how Paul told Timothy,  “God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control” [ch. 1 v.7]Back to chapter 3; we are aware how true Paul's prediction has been throughout history that “all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil people and imposters will go from bad to worse.  But as for you (and us!) continue in what you have learned and firmly believed … how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred scriptures … breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness” [v.12-14,16]  May we  increase our zeal for the Holy Scriptures and develop a greater “spirit .. of power and love and self-control” as we complete our “training in righteousness”.

A @Christadelphians Video: [Inspiring]In this outstanding and thought-provoking episode of the Watchman Report, we delve into a major geopolitical shift that is quietly reshaping the world order: Europe's move towards strategic independence from America. As headlines from February 2026 report that European leaders are preparing for a future without the US as its ultimate security guarantor, we ask the question—what does this mean for the student of Bible prophecy?This is an insightful and revealing exposition of Ezekiel 38 and Revelation 17, exploring how current events are aligning with the prophetic stage. We examine the ancient nations of Magog, Meshech, Tubal, and Gomer, using the historical writings of Josephus to identify them with modern-day Russia and Europe. The video lays out a wonderful, scriptural framework showing how a Russian-led European confederacy is set to emerge in the latter days, standing apart from the Anglo-Saxon maritime powers of Tarshish (Britain) and her young lions (the United States).Join us for this inspirational study as we connect the dots between today's headlines and the sure word of prophecy, pointing towards the ultimate intervention of God and the establishment of His Kingdom.*Chapters:*00:00 - Introduction: The Shifting Alliances in Europe01:52 - News Headlines: Europe Prepares for Life Without US Backing03:26 - The Prophetic Significance: Ezekiel 38 and the Latter Days04:55 - Identifying the Nations: Josephus and the Scythians07:00 - The Prince of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal: The Russian Connection08:39 - Gomer and his Bands: Identifying Western Europe09:52 - Revelation 17: The Ten Kings and European Unity11:25 - The Merchants of Tarshish: Britain, America, and the Young Lions13:28 - The Direction of Travel: Setting the Stage for Prophecy15:05 - Conclusion: Moving Towards God's Kingdom*Bible Verses Referenced:*

A @Christadelphians Video: [Inspiring] We, as Christadelphians, find this **thought-provoking** and **insightful** exploration of Bible translation wonderfully humbling. In this **outstanding** sixth instalment (Part A), we tackle the **revealing** reality that translators often work with incomplete knowledge. Join us as we examine the **expositional** journey through textual criticism, from Erasmus's bold solutions to the enduring mystery of Genesis 12:3—where we still don't know if “all families shall be blessed” or “shall bless themselves.” This is a **wonderful** reminder that humility sits at the heart of faithfully handling God's Word.

**The Word Became Flesh – A Revealing Exploration of John 1:14**In this outstanding and thought-provoking presentation, we continue our expositional series on what Christadelphians believe. Harry Tennant delivers a wonderful, scripture-centred examination of one of the most profound truths in the Bible: that the Word was made flesh. This is not a dry theological exercise but an inspiring journey into the heart of God's purpose, revealing how Jesus Christ—truly and uniquely the Son of God—embodies the very mind of God. From creation to the virgin birth, from the Old Testament prophecies to the perfect life of our Lord, this talk illuminates the beautiful consistency of God's plan. Join us as we honour the Son who shared our nature, overcame temptation, died for our sins, and now sits exalted at the Father's right hand.---## Chapters00:00 - Introduction: John 1:1-14 and the uniqueness of Christ 03:00 - The nature of God's Word: creation and consistency 07:30 - Christ: the pre-eminent purpose in God's mind 10:00 - “Before Abraham was, I am” – understanding Christ in the Old Testament 14:30 - The working of God's Word through prophecy 17:30 - The virgin birth: Mary's faith and the Word made flesh 22:30 - Jesus as a child: growing in wisdom and obedience 27:30 - The image of the invisible God: Father and Son distinguished 32:30 - Christ's true death, resurrection, and exaltation 36:30 - Explaining “pre-existence” passages: God's foreknowledge 42:00 - The Word radiated in Jesus' life and teaching 45:10 - Conclusion: What a word is this!---## Bible Verse Categories

Here is the YouTube Summary and Description for the video, written in British English from the perspective of Christadelphians.**Video Title:** Conversations: Geoff Dawe Talks About His Faith (A Christadelphian Perspective)**Description:**Join us for a **thought-provoking** and **insightful** conversation with brother Geoff Dawe as he shares the reasons for his faith. This is an **expositional** discussion that goes beneath the surface, revealing why the Holy Scriptures are a dependable, divinely inspired roadmap for our lives.Geoff openly discusses his spiritual journey, from being raised in a Christadelphian family to making the faith his own through personal conviction. He shares a **wonderful** and relatable encounter with atheist friends, challenging the assumptions of modern secularism and revealing why belief in God is not a blind leap, but a reasoned response to evidence.What makes this discussion truly **outstanding** is its focus on Bible prophecy as the ultimate proof of God's existence and plan. Geoff demonstrates how the **revealing** of God's purpose—particularly the regathering of the nation of Israel—stands as a powerful, verifiable witness in today's world. We explore the consequences of obedience and disobedience as laid out in Deuteronomy, the sure hope of the Messiah's return, and the coming Kingdom of God on Earth.If you have ever questioned the validity of the Old Testament or wondered how prophecy confirms Scripture, this video is for you.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction & Geoff's Family Background02:23 - Making the Faith Your Own: Personal Conviction05:20 - A Conversation with Atheists: Evolution vs. Design10:38 - Why Prophecy is the Key to Faith13:45 - Deuteronomy 28: The Blessings and the Curses27:40 - The Regathering of Israel: Prophecy Fulfilled37:31 - The Old Testament: Did Jesus Believe It?52:05 - The Days of Noah & Lot: Signs of Christ's Return1:08:06 - The Hope of the Kingdom: Righteousness & Peace1:10:19 - Conclusion: An Informed Decision**Bible Verse Categories:**

Today's readings.. (Joshua 12), (Isaiah 16), (2 Timothy 2)We continue with our reading and reflections on the final epistle that Paul wrote: our chapter (2) begins with his encouragement to Timothy, “my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ …” He encourages him to “share in the suffering as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.” [v.3]Paul is “bound with chains as a criminal”, but says, “the word of God is not bound.” [v.9]  Today, with widespread translation and printing and websites, the word of God is more unbound than ever before, but how few are taking notice of it, especially in western countries which are overflowing with fleshly distractions and “the love of money.” Paul and Timothy are examples to us; Paul declares, “I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.” [v.10]Before his conversion Paul served himself, developing his ego as a Pharisee, blind to “the way” – the way of Christ; the human ambitions he then had, in a sense, “died” outside Damascus.  Among the early believers inspirational sayings began to circulate and Paul includes one in this letter, “The saying is trustworthy, for: ‘If we have died with him, we will also live with him; if we endure, we will also reign with him.” [v.11.12]  This saying remains totally true today, have we “died with” him?  Our thoughts immediately go to Paul's words to the Colossians, “Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness … for on account of these the wrath of God is coming” [ch. 3 v.5,6] As the moral restraints on our world totally disintegrate, even more endurance will be required – and our endurance will need to include the confession of our faith in Christ for v.12 in today's chapter concludes Paul's quotation of the ‘saying' – “if we deny him, he also will deny us; if we are faithless, he remains faithful …” to his promise that “if we endure, we will also reign with him.”

Today's readings.. (Joshua 11), (Isaiah 15), (2 Timothy 1)The final letter of the Apostle Paul was his second letter to Timothy.  His opening verses after his usual greeting is to write of Timothy's faith.  Note how he expresses it, “I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well.” [Ch.1 v.5]  We know nothing of his father, except he was a Greek, although his mother was a Jewess (Acts 16 v.1).What a lesson this is of the valuable role of women in their commitment to Christ and the inspiration they can give to children and grandchildren, we know well the commitment that was obviously in the women who went to the tomb on the morning of the resurrection.  In the next verse Paul writes, “For this reason (your faith) I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands” [v.6].  A “sincere faith” is an essential ingredient in any natural abilities and talents we have.  In those days abilities or gifts were given by Apostles such as Paul.  His first letter to the Corinthians illustrates the range of such abilities, many of which we would see as “natural” – such as wisdom and knowledge (1 Cor. 12 v.8] Paul desires “especially that you may prophesy.” [14 v.1] which means, to reveal God's attitude and purpose, not necessarily to predict the future – this is evident in the Old Testament prophets such as Jeremiah.  Today God's word should “fan into flame” our desire to use our various abilities to do as much work as we can for our Lord.Back in the letter to Timothy we noted the next 2 verses (7 & 8) “for God gave us a spirit not of fear, but of power and love and self control.  Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord …”  In so many countries in the world the message of Christ is now held in low regard, so it is now more necessary than ever to develop this spirit of strength of mind to enhance our “sincere faith” and follow in the footsteps of Timothy.  How would someone who knows you well write about your faith?

Today's readings.. (Joshua 10, (Isaiah 14), (1 Timothy 6)It is evident that when Paul wrote his first letter to Timothy whom he had left “at Ephesus that you may charge certain persons not to teach any different doctrine …” [ch.1 v.3,] that already there were those who were trying, using their own ‘wisdom', to ‘improve' on the true teaching they had received.  In today's ch. 6, Paul tells Timothy, “if anyone teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that accords with godliness, he is puffed up with conceit and understands nothing.  He has an unhealthy craving for controversy … “ [v.3,4]  Each generation since then has needed to heed Paul's warning, the failure to do this is the reason why we have so many different churches. It results, all too often, in the basic instincts of human nature being displayed.  Paul says such people are “deprived of the truth” and, even worse they see “godliness as a means of gain” [v.5], and so we have seen wealthy churches emerge with leaders who display an affluent lifestyle. We saw in ch. 5 that Paul is not saying it is wrong for “those who labour in preaching and teaching” to receive support for “the labourer deserves his wages” [v.17,18]But Paul himself, as we read 4 days ago, in writing his 2nd letter to the Thessalonians said, “nor did we eat anyone's bread without paying for it, but … worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you” [3 v.7,8]. Paul was a tentmaker [Acts 18 v.3] and set a worthy example.His aim in life should be, Paul tells Timothy, to “Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness.  Fight the good fight of faith.  Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called …”   [6 v.11,12] Timothy is to encourage them “to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves …” [v.18,19] for the kingdom. Let us all do this, trying at the same time to correct “anyone who teaches a different doctrine” and develop our understanding of “the words of our Lord Jesus Christ” and the other writings God has caused to be written and preserved – as much as we can – and then make greater efforts to put them into practice. 

Today's readings.. (Joshua 9), (Isaiah 13), (1 Timothy 4,5)Isaiah ch. 13, todays' reading, appears to have a double application: it tells us [v.1] it is an “oracle concerning Babylon,” but much of its content is remarkably parallel to the ‘Babylon' described in the book of Revelation.  It is enlightening to note that the word ‘Babylon' in the Hebrew is actually ‘Babel'; part of this chapter appears to be about the ‘Babel' of the last days.In the days of Isaiah Assyria was the enemy Israel feared, Babylon was not yet a nation to be feared. Isaiah is caused to write of “The sound of the uproar of kingdoms, of nations gathering together! The LORD of hosts is mustering a host for battle … the weapons of his indignation to destroy the whole land”  [v.4,5]  What “land” is to be destroyed?     The same Hebrew word (eretz) is translated as “earth” in v13, “the earth will be shaken out of its place, at the wrath of the LORD of hosts in the day of his fierce anger”.  To our way of thinking it should be understood as “earth” in both places. We note the context, look at v.9 -11, “Behold, the day of the LORD comes, cruel, with wrath and fierce anger …the sun will be dark at its rising and the moon will not shed its light. I will punish the world for its evil, and the wicked for their iniquity”   This describes a far greater calamity than when Babylon destroyed Jerusalem and brought to an end the kingdom established under David and Solomon. We must seriously consider how it describes the world today, with its' world-wide ungodliness when “every way of man is right in his own eyes” [Prov, 21 v.2] and there is no thought that an all-seeing Creator even exists.  Are we to expect physical signs – will the sun “be dark” and “the moon will not shed its light”?   Jesus made some awesome prophecies, that “there will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences and there will be terrors and great signs from heaven” [Luke 21 v.11]  But he also said, “there will be such tribulation as has not been from the beginning of the creation  … if the Lord had not cut short the days, no human being would be saved. But for the sake of the elect, whom he chose …”  [Mark v.19,20]Make sure you are among the elect – for “he will send out the angels and gather his elect … from the ends of the earth” [v.27]  An utterly awesome divine forecast of events – we close our eyes to it – at our peril.

Today's readings.. (Joshua 8), (Isaiah 12), (1 Timothy 1-3)We usually have a reasonable idea of what we are going to talk about as today progresses, also some of the things that are likely to be part of our thoughts and conversations tomorrow – but it is invaluable to meditate on what the 6 verses that make up the entire 12th chapter of Isaiah told Israel and tells us of what “you will say on that day.”  How utterly wonderful to be among those who will say, “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid; for the LORD God is my strength …” [v.2]   Of course, believing in God and his Son should always be the foundation on which our “strength” rests – it is not physical strength is it!  What strength of mind do you have?  How much does your mind meditate on the ultimate future? In v.3 we read “With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation”. This takes our thoughts to what Jesus said to the Samaritan woman at the well, “… whoever drinks of the water that I will give him …(it) … will become in him (or her) a spring of water welling up to eternal life” [John 4 v.14] We link this saying with his words “on the last day of the feast” that the one “who believes in me … out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” [7 v.38]    After Jesus left them, “the Spirit” [v.39] was to flow out of the heart of the disciples to produce more of the words of God – on which we can (and must) feed our minds.Now back to Isaiah, the last 2 verses vividly picture the time when the redeemed will “Sing praises to the LORD, for he has done gloriously … Shout and sing for joy. O inhabitant of Zion. For great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.”  These words take us to “the song of the Lamb” in Revelation 15.  Let us live so that, by the grace of God we will be there to experience and sing this “in that day” “Great and amazing are your deeds O Lord God the Almighty!  Just and true are your ways, O King of the nations!  … For you alone are holy.  All nations will come and worship you, for your righteous acts have been revealed.” [v3,4]   At the moment they have been concealed – except to those who read and mediate on God's word and prepare themselves for what they “will say (and sing) in that day”

Today, more than ever before, we live in a herd environment, a human herd.  Mass advertising in a great variety of media confronts us hour after hour, this creates a herd mentality. We reflected on this as we read Paul's words this morning.  He told the Thessalonians that we “give you in ourselves an example to imitate.” [2 Thess. 3 v.9]  What do we imitate? What or who do we take as our examples in life?  An equally important question – why do we see them as examples that we might feel inclined to imitate?  Bad examples surround us!   But there are other things that are in some aspects good, but are dangerous in other ways! In these cases we need to acknowledge the good but be conscious of the potential for danger, seeing the aspects that could be deceitful, as Paul did.      Do you remember what he wrote about sin in Romans ch. 7?  Verse 11 challenges our understanding.  Paul wrote, “For sin, seizing an opportunity through the commandment, deceived me …” Yet, the next verse says, the “law is holy, and the commandment is holy and righteous and good.” What does he mean?  It appears to us that in studying the law and keeping them they became proud of their righteousness, that pride, deceived them! Now he was a follower of Christ, Paul sees life through Christ's eyes, he now has what we might call, a down to earth perspective. He  writes, “you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, because we were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone's bread without paying for it … that we might not be a burden to you.” [v.7,8]  So we need to ask ourselves – are we pulling our weight, doing our share?  We live in a world (in the west in particular) where getting something for nothing is the aim of quite a percentage of the population.  Some have seen a career in ‘Christianity' as a means of making a living with very little hard work attached to it.  This is sometimes evident in India, especially if some overseas organisation is pouring in money. In this country the degree of ‘social welfare' encourages some to try to live ‘idle' lives, but the true believer must have an attitude that is the very opposite.  Soon we will be reading the letter to the Hebrews where it is stated, “Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God.  Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith” [13 v.7] They did not have the blessing of a Bible to read every day and we cannot help but think that, if they had, they would have read it every spare moment – and made as many such moments as possible.  Today with so many Bibles available, it is vital we ask ourselves what part does God's word take as we live each day?    One of the smallest “books” in the Bible is the 3rd letter of John. Let's take our final point from what he wrote at the end of his long life. “Beloved, do not imitate evil but imitate good.  Whoever does good is from God; whoever does evil has not seen God.” [v.11]  What will you do today that you would call “good”? We should read the Bible with such dedication of mind that we “see” God.

Today's readings.. (Joshua 5,6), (Isaiah 10), (2 Thessalonians 1,2)Paul's second letter to the Thessalonians shows he now has greater confidence in them, in their faith and love, this causes him “to give thanks to God … because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing.” [1 v.3] He commends their “steadfastness and faith in all your persecutions”  [v.4]  We are aware that there are true believers in some countries of whom this can be said today – and this is true of every generation.  As Jesus said in his message to Smyrna, “I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich) … Be faithful unto death, and I will give you a crown of life.” [Rev.2 v.9,10]   Let us all be “rich in faith.”Ukraine is much in the news these days – and there are true believers there today and we pray specially for them and for those in Iran  – and we know that Stalin wiped out our community of believers in Ukraine in the 1930s.   We ponder the reference in the 2nd chapter  to a particular “man of lawlessness” and that there will be a “rebellion”.  We see just about everyone, in a sense, rebelling against any meaningful belief in their being a God. The “day of the Lord” then occurs.  The leader of this rebellion is “against every so-called god or object of worship” [v.4]   In a sense the ‘doctrine' of evolution fulfils this, being against any concept of their being a God, a Creator whom humans should worship and serve. Humans are also worshipping money – and Jesus said, no one “can serve two Masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other.  You cannot serve God and money.” [Luke 16 v.13]  Nearly everyone is devoted to the things money can buy today. Finally we note Paul's warning that “those who are perishing” will do so because “they refused to love the truth and so be saved.” [v.10]   James wrote [2 v.5], “has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which he has promised to those who love him”  Let us be “rich” in the things our Master approves making sure we truly “love him” and that our “faith is growing abundantly”.

**YouTube Summary/Description****Video Title:** The Christadelphians - #11 The Christ – Whose Son Is He? – Harry Tennant**Description:**Join us for this outstanding and thought-provoking exposition as we explore one of the most profound questions in Scripture: Whose son is the Christ? In this wonderful presentation, Brother Harry Tennant guides us through an insightful, verse-by-verse examination of the sonship of Jesus.We look at the two extremes of belief—from those who deny the virgin birth to the traditional creedal teaching of an eternally begotten Son. Neither, we believe, fully reflects the beautiful, consistent revelation of the Bible. Instead, we delve into what Scripture actually says: that Jesus is the uniquely begotten Son of God, born of the virgin Mary by the power of the Holy Spirit. This revealing study walks through key passages from Matthew, Luke, John, Paul's letters, and Hebrews to show that Jesus worshipped His Father, that the Father is greater than the Son, and that Christ's glory comes from His faithful obedience—not from a pre-existent divine nature.This is a respectful, humble, and deeply Scriptural look at one of the most important doctrines of the faith. Whether you agree or disagree, this video will challenge and inspire you to return to the Word of God as the only foundation for truth.**Chapters:**00:00 – Introduction: Seeking to Know the Son03:55 – The Virgin Birth: A Non-Negotiable Bible Truth08:09 – Examining the Creeds: “Eternally Begotten” or Biblically Revealed?13:41 – Old Testament Promises: Foreordained, Then Born15:49 – Born as the Son of God (Luke 1:35, Galatians 4:4)16:56 – Philippians 2:5-11 Explained: “Form of God” – On Earth or in Heaven?24:40 – Jesus Worships God – Even After His Ascension30:13 – Conclusion: Honouring Christ Without the Creeds**Bible Verse Categories:**

A @Christadelphians Video: Inspiring. Join us for a thought-provoking and insightful expositional Bible study on the current crisis in Iran. We examine the outstanding prophecies that reveal the future of Iran, Syria, and the surrounding nations, offering a wonderful biblical perspective on today's headlines. This revealing presentation connects scripture with global events, showing the sure hand of God in human history.*Chapters:*00:00 - Introduction: Iran in Crisis01:17 - Iran and Syria in Bible Prophecy02:40 - Daniel 11:40: The King of the North and South04:45 - The Identity of the 'Him' in Prophecy08:01 - Russia's Role as the Latter-Day King of the North10:39 - Mapping the Future Invasion12:38 - Proof 1: Iran in the Prophecy of Ezekiel13:44 - Proof 2: Persia in Ezekiel 38:515:49 - Proof 3: The 'Residue' in Daniel 719:50 - The Historical Empires and the Unconquered Land22:49 - Russia's Strategy and Current Movements25:37 - Summary of Three Key Prophecies27:47 - What We Should Look For Next30:16 - The Coming Catalyst: Global Economic Collapse32:36 - The Future of a Palestinian State & Israel's Peace34:11 - Conclusion and Call to Action*Key Bible Verses Discussed:*

A @Christadelphians Video: **Ai Summary**[Inspiring] In this thought-provoking and wonderfully expositional video, we continue our series exploring why so many Bible versions exist. This episode focuses on **textual criticism** (or “lower criticism”) – a careful, honest discipline that seeks to recover the original text of Scripture by comparing thousands of ancient manuscripts. We explain why we don't have the original autographs, how scribal errors and intentional changes crept in, and why having over 5,600 Greek manuscripts (with ~400,000 variants) is actually a blessing, not a problem. Using outstanding examples like Matthew 17 (prayer and fasting), John 5 (the angel at Bethesda), the Lord's Prayer doxology, and Mark 1 (Isaiah or the prophets?), we walk through the four-step process of textual criticism: determination, external evidence, internal evidence, and identification. We also reveal the difference between the Textus Receptus (behind the KJV) and modern critical texts like the Nestle-Aland/UBS (behind the ESV, NIV, etc.), and why about 50 verses (including the woman caught in adultery and the longer ending of Mark) are treated differently. This is a revealing, insightful journey that equips us to understand where our Bibles come from – so we can agree or disagree with textual critics for the right reasons. Ultimately, we want what God originally inspired. Join us as we grow in appreciation for the remarkable manuscript evidence God has preserved.**Chapters**00:00 - Introduction00:47 - What is Textual Criticism? (Lower Criticism)02:43 - The Goal: Recovering the Original Text03:18 - No Original Manuscripts? A Timeline Challenge04:31 - Why So Many Manuscripts? (And Variants)07:40 - The Four-Step Process of Textual Criticism10:48 - Internal Evidence: Examining the Reading Itself12:58 - Case Study 1: Matthew 17 (Prayer and Fasting)17:55 - Case Study 2: John 5 (The Angel at Bethesda)20:29 - Case Study 3: The Lord's Prayer Doxology21:45 - Case Study 4: Mark 1 (Isaiah or the Prophets?)23:37 - What is a Critical Text? From Textus Receptus to UBS26:10 - Missing Verses? (Mark 16, Woman Caught in Adultery)29:02 - Why This Matters: Seeking the Original30:42 - A Privilege of Many Manuscripts31:24 - Conclusion & Next Time**Bible Verse Category**

A Christadelphian Video: Christadelphian John Owen has had to overcome some major obstacles in his life, not least, having Cancer in his early years, he explains how being part of the Christadelphian Community really helped him in those difficult years. Accepting God into his life has made him realise how blessed and loved he is. He is now an international speaker declaring the True God of the Bible to all those who will listen.

Today's readings.. (Joshua 3,4), (Isaiah 9), (1 Thessalonians 5)We follow on from our thoughts yesterday about our “our hearts being established blameless in holiness” with Paul's conclusion to his first letter to the Thessalonians where he stresses very strongly to them that “having put on the breastplate of faith  … God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ who died for us …” [ch. 5 v.8-10]The wonder of that salvation which those who truly serve God will experience is illustrated for us in today's chapter in Isaiah (ch. 9) where there are words which have found a prominent place in the famous Oratorio ‘The Messiah.' “For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given and the government shall be upon his shoulder … of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and uphold it  with justice and with righteousness …” [v.6,7]We took particular notice of the phrase, “the increase of his government”  which implies the spread of his control – and noted Paul's words today – that when “people are saying , ‘There is peace and ‘security' then sudden destruction will come upon them” [v.3]  People everywhere will feel a more urgent need than today for peace and security, and when they think they are achieving it, then – disaster!  But then, wonderfully,  the child who was born, the “Son” of God, returns to rebuild life on earth on divine principles; a complete rebuilding will be necessary.  “The increase of his government” indicates this as the general population recovers from the terrible experience of the “sudden destruction.”  As we read on in Isaiah we will come across passages such as in ch. 34, of the time coming when “the LORD is enraged against all the nations and furious against all their host (armies); he has devoted them to destruction …”[v.2]May we all live our lives so that we are among those of whom it will be true to say and experience that, “God has not destined us for wrath,” but to obtain salvation. 

Today's readings.. (Joshua 1), (Isaiah 7, (1 Thessalonians 3,4)All 3 of our readings today provoke serious meditation about human reactions to God. We started reading Joshua and saw God's challenge to him to take his people over the Jordan.  He is told, “Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you.  I will not leave you or forsake you. Be strong and courageous, for you shall cause this people to inherit the land … [1 v.5,6] In Isaiah (ch. 7] the prophet is told to “Go and meet (king) Asa” [v.3] and encourage him to face the threats from the north.  He is to tell him, “Be careful, do not fear, and do not let your heart in faint …” [v.4]  Then the king is bluntly warned, “If you are not firm in faith, you will not be firm at all.” [v.9]  It is not possible to have a sort of half-faith!  Ahaz feels he is putting God to the test if he asks with a full expectation God will preserve him, he says, “I will not ask, I will not put the Lord to the test” [v.12]  Because of his lack of faith the LORD then gives, through Isaiah, messages to him of bad times to come when, among other things, “all the land will be briers and thorns” [v.24]In the New Testament we started to read Paul's 1st letter to the Thessalonians and saw how he is commending them on “how you turned … to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.” [v.9,10] These words as so meaningful for us today; let us be “firm in faith” that God means what he caused his servants such as Paul to write.   May we, with full conviction in the word of God, “wait for his son from heaven' sensing that “wrath” will soon be coming on our world because it has reached the stage of near total godlessness. Let us not neglect our regular Bible reading as it lays the foundation to being “firm in faith” and to “be strong and courageous” both now – and even more – when the promised “wrath to come” actually happens and the dramas we will read of tomorrow in Paul's words actually takes place.

Paul writes in a very challenging way to the Colossians; he spells out very plainly that the pathway in following Christ is the very opposite to the pathways of those whose way of life leaves Christ and God out of account; their way of life becomes increasingly tragic especially if they believe there is no God – and therefore reject there is any need of a Saviour. When Paul tells the Colossian believers, “for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God” [Ch. 3 v.3] he means that believers have ‘died' to the appreciation of the things that the ungodly see as valuable and important in their lives.Paul tells them to “set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on the earth” [v.2]  The things “above” will become a wonderful reality “when Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.” [v.4] In setting our minds on the things that are above, that are not earthly or fleshly, Paul tells them that the result is that you “put to death … what is earthly in you; sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire and covetousness” [v.5]Our world is increasingly full of this; so many are now spending their lives thirsting to possess the next clever invention; spiritual considerations find no place at all in their thinking. Paul says “on account of these the wrath of God is coming” [v.6] and it came upon Colossae long ago as it did on so many other ancient cities.What fate awaits the cities of today at God's hands we can only ponder in apprehension – and we will tremble to think about this all the more as we will read soon the long term prophecies God gave through Isaiah.Our aim must be that, having “put off the old self” [v.9], we “put on the new self which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator.” [v.10]  It is an ongoing process of renewal in becoming more and more like Christ.  May we all make some progress each day, our daily reading of the Bible is a foundation factor in this renewal of knowledge.

Moses has reached the end of his long life, he is now 120 years old and his final effort is a final message to the nation.  We read, “then Moses spoke the words of this song  … in the ears of the assembly of Israel.” [Deut.31 v.30].  His words were designed to be memorised.  “When Moses had finished speaking all these words to all Israel” [32 v.45] “he said to them, take to heart these words … that you may command them to your children … for it is no empty word for you, but your very life, and by this word you shall live …” [v.46,47]  We can see his final message as a microcosm of all God's words that he has caused to be preserved for humanity for the guidance of those who seek to believe in him and seek to do his will. Such will therefore read his word and apply their minds to understand.Moses final message to the emerging nation of Israel applies, in its basic principles, to all who seek to serve God.  God could see that many in succeeding generations in Israel would lose their vision of God and not remain faithful – and so, sadly, this has also largely been the case with those who say they are following Christ. God says to Israel, prophetically through Moses, “I will hide my face from them … for they are a perverse generation, children in whom is no faithfulness.” [v.20] and so it has been – and is equally true in this 21st Century with so many who claim to follow Christ.  Through Moses, God said the people would become “a nation void of counsel and there is no understanding in them.  If they were wise they would understand this; they would discern their latter end.” [v.28,29] Other scriptures give us more details of their latter end but Moses ends his song positively seeing a time when God “avenges the blood of his children and takes vengeance on his adversaries and cleanses his people's land” [v.43].  Then Moses “came and recited all the words … in the hearing of the people” [v.44] and added in conclusion the words we quoted at the start; “it is no empty word for you, but your very life, and by this word you shall live”  This is parallel with the words of Christ and the apostles by which we must live – and, as a result, live eternally.  “Words” in our world are “empty” of eternal meaning – so let us make God's words our “very life.”

The Apostle Paul, said Peter (2 Peter 3 v.16), writes “some things … that are hard to understand which the ignorant and unstable twist”!  We suspect some verses in today's reading of Chapter 1 of Colossians are an example of this. Paul writes about Jesus as “the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation” [1 v.15].  He goes on to say that “he is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent.” [v.18].From this we learn that the resurrection of Jesus, following a life in which he succeeded in making God's will his will led to his being made pre-eminent by God. . But doing God's will was not an automatic process, it was an incredible challenge, remember his agonizing in the garden of Gethsemane.  (see Luke 22 v.42).  His resurrection to eternal life was the starting point at which he was made pre-eminent in everything. It was a new beginning, one could say, a new creation. Paul says, in reasoning with the Galatians, that neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, “but a new creation” [6 v.15]  He said the same thing in 2 Corinthians 5 v.17, “if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation”.  Our awareness of these quotations provide the foundation for our understanding of how all things were created FOR Christ. God's work of creation was with him in mind from the very beginning. We note how Peter expresses this about Christ, “He was foreknown before the foundation of the world but was manifest in these last times … “ [1 Peter 1 v.20] by “God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory …” [v.21] The glory of Jesus came from God, he gave him pre-eminence because he was obedient unto death.  Our understanding can be confused by translators who, thinking of Jesus as God himself; this appears to have influenced their translation in a few places.  An example is the Greek preposition ek.  It occurs in our Colossians chapter no less than 31 times. It has the primary meaning of in, but the translators have used no less than 6 different English words in that chapter. Now we know you cannot translate from one language to another word for word and always make meaningful sense, but we noticed how in verse 16, they have rendered it as “by” – “for by him were all things created”  Yet the ESV, we use has a footnote against ‘by' – that says – That is, ‘by means of', or ‘in'Think, if they were created for him, it does not make sense that they were created by him.  Have we confused you?  God created the world with Jesus in mind.  Jesus lived and died with us in mind (Read John 20 v.20-21)   The “new creation” flows on from the original creation of Adam and Eve.  Are you part of the new creation, taking on the name of Christ in baptism?   Or will you be among those who fail because they stay related to Adam? 

Today we completed reading ACTS. The last 2 verses of the book tell us that Paul was in Rome for “two whole years … and welcomed all who came to him, proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance.” That is where Luke ends his narrative, we have no inspired record of what happened to him after that. We notice the emphasis on Paul proclaiming God's Kingdom – it is sad that as the generations passed that the message preached about the personal future of the righteous became totally corrupted to one of human imagination; that of an immortal soul having some kind of existence in heaven.Our reading today in Isaiah has wonderful details about God's Kingdom that “shall come to pass in the latter days … and all the nations shall flow to it … and say:  Come let us go up … to the house (temple) of the God of Jacob that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths for out of Zion shall go the law and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem … he shall judge between nations … nation shall not lift up sword (weapons) against nation, neither shall they learn war any more” [2 v.2-4].        The kingdom Paul was proclaiming was this kingdom that Isaiah reveals. God spoke of it also through other prophets, and we should know well how Jesus preached it.   But – now note – Isaiah has another vision of our days, a fearsome vision, three times in the last 11 verses of today's 2nd chapter we encounter the phrase, “in that day”!  His vision describes a time when “the lofty pride of man shall be humbled” [v.11] with a warning “against every high tower” [v.15] – and never have there been more towering buildings than today.    Later Isaiah sees in vision “the day of the great slaughter when the towers fall … the LORD comes from afar, burning with anger … to sift the nations with the sieve of destruction” [30 v.25,27,28]  This compares with words in today's chapter, “the lofty pride of men shall be brought low, and the LORD alone will be exalted in that day … when he rises to terrify the earth” [v.17,19].  Those who do not know God's word and have no relationship with him will be terrified.     Let us make sure we know what God has spoken through the prophets, we will come across some awesome words about “that day” as we continue our readings in Isaiah for the next several weeks.