Christadelphians Talk

John 6 recorded signs 4 and 5 - the feeding of the 5,000 and our Lord's walking on the troubled sea. The feeding of the 5,000 took place in spring - a time of abundant green grass. It was Passover time (12 months before Jesus' crucifixion) and just after the death of John the Baptist. Jesus, in testing Philip, asks where can Jesus and his Apostles purchase sufficient bread in the wilderness for this crowd; for our Lord already knew what he was going to do. From the personal lunch of a lad - five loaves and two fish Jesus feeds 5,000 and collects 12 baskets full of fragments. Having full bellies, the multitude wants to forcibly make Jesus their king. Our Lord rapidly disperses the crowd and sends the disciples away by boat. Jesus goes into a mountain to pray. The Lord comes to the disciples walking on the water. No sooner had he joined them than they arrive at Capernaum - the city of comfort. This is a parable illustrating our vain toiling on the troubled sea of nations as we await the return of our Master. As soon as Jesus returns we will receive the peace he brings and the comforts of the kingdom age. At the synagogue in Capernaum a discussion takes place as Jesus tells them that he is the 'bread of life' - in contrast to the wilderness manna eaten by their fathers. The Son of God has been sealed in his thinking by his Father; and what they need to do was believe. Their being saved is through what the Father has done through His Son and all they can do is to accept this by believing on His Son. Isaiah 55 is a key link to this chapter and it focused on resurrection - "the sure mercies, i.e. 'chesed' of David". Note the emphasis in John 6 and how many times Jesus refers to resurrection - verses 39, 44. Verse 45 quotes from Isaiah 54 verse 13. All who believe thefaithful message of the gospel are "taught of God". Jesus found that many would-be disciples leave him being unable to cope with the challenging ideas our Lord Jesus presents. Peter's encouraging and supportive words for his Lord particularly and for every potential disciple when says in verses 68-69, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed and come to know, that you are the Holy One of God". ESV Jesus though encouraged reminds Peter and the other Apostles of the rocky road ahead when he refers them to the challenges that are to come from Judas Iscariot: see verses 70-71. Let none of us trust in ourselves for the heart of mankind is "diabolos' - treacherous.

In chapter 1 of 2 Chronicles Solomon worshipped at Gibeon and later that evening when Yahweh appeared to him, he was told to ask from God whatever he desired. Solomon's response was to ask wisdom to rule the people of the LORD in a wise way (this showed that Solomon had a degree of wisdom in making such a request). In addition to wisdom Solomon was granted great wealth. In chapter 2 Solomon prepares for the building of the temple and commences his rule in great humility. Solomon's start to his reign was remarkable. The king had, perhaps, the greatest potential of any of Israel's monarchs. The king's heart was towards his divine Sovereign but was sadly later misdirected by his marrying of foreign wives who took the king away from God. Chapter 39 of Ezekiel tells of the devastation wrought on Gogue and his hosts. They will fall in their multitudes and be carrion to the birds of prey - those birds who will feed on the slaughtered symbolise many other nations. Gog (Gogue) and his multitude will be given a place of graves east of Jerusalem - and this mausoleum will be called Hamon-Gog. It will take seven months to bury the dead. When Yahweh magnifies Himself in this great victory Israel and all nations will recognise the power that resides in that Great and Holy Name. Our Sovereign will exalt and restore His people Israel to be the head of the nations and will place His spirit within them. John 5 gives the third sign recorded in his account in the healing of the impotent man at the pool of Bethesda (meaning "the house of mercy"). It would seem that the Jews had a superstition about this place - just as surrounds the mythology of Lourdes. Some translations add, 'it was said that an angel ..'. The man was about 38 years old and a symbol of Israel, who for 38 years were powerless and perishing in wilderness. The miracle occurs on the Sabbath day and so this is a continuation of the Jews seek to contentions with our Lord about the Sabbath day. In verses 19-47 Jesus witnesses to his sonship,authority and truth. There was no equality between our Lord and his Father - Jesus' power was derived from his Father and without God Christ could do nothing. But the authority of the Word of Jesus, as he says, extended to raising the dead. The morally dead who listened would be enlightened and enlivened by the saving words of the gospel. This would mean that having now 'heard' the voice of the Son of God; they would be brought to life as they will be called forth to resurrection when Jesus returns to earth. The chapter concludes with Christ outlining the "witnesses" that incontrovertibly prove he was from God. This chapter demonstrates both the spiritual conception i.e. "new birth" in verses 24-27 and physical resurrection which precedes birth to spirit nature verses 28-29.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

A @Christadelphians Video: An insightful analysis of a major geopolitical escalation. This thought-provoking report examines the September 9th violation of NATO airspace by Russian drones, connecting the event to three outstanding prophetic themes from Scripture. We provide an expositional look at the rise of Russia as the northern power, Europe's awakening war spirit, and the gathering storm around Israel, all pointing towards the climatic events foretold in the Bible. Join us for this revealing perspective on current events.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction: Russian Drones Violate Polish Airspace02:28 - The Event: Details of the NATO Airspace Breach04:21 - Prophetic Theme 1: Russia's Rise as the Northern Power07:44 - Prophetic Theme 2: Europe's War Spirit Awakening08:52 - Prophetic Theme 3: The Gathering Storm Around Israel11:23 - Conclusion: Geopolitical Escalation and Prophetic Milestones**Bible Verses Referenced:**

1 Chronicles 29 outlines the extensive offerings for the temple, that David in gratefulness to God had prepared. And like the Tabernacle those offerings had had come from willing hearts - verse 9 compare Exodus 25:2. David then prays for the Assembly and asks that whatever those assembled had done would be acceptable to the Almighty. Note the similarity between David's prayer and the Lord's Prayer in Matthew 6. Also take notice of the deep spirit of humility in which it was offered. Solomon was anointedking for the second time and we need to consider the import of verse 23 "He sat as king upon the throne of Yahweh over Israel". Thus began the kingdom of God on earth in its first constitution. David dies and is buried and let us consider the Apostle Paul's comments on David's faithful service in Acts 13 verses 36-37. Ezekiel 38 speaks of an invasion of the recently regathered and reconstituted nation of Israel (verses 7-8). The chapter speaks of a northern confederacy headed by one termed Gogue - meaning 'roof', or 'one at the top'. Looking at a map of Eurasia we need no imagination to be able to see the nation being spoken about. The leader of this nation is called in the Hebrew tongue prince of Ros, Meshech and Tubal - the ancient names for Russia, Moscow and Tobolski as many lexicographers tell us. In a book by a notable Russian historian (George Vernadsky - he says Ezekiel 38 is the first historical reference to Russia. Note the alliances mentioned and much of this has already transpired. This Eurasian confederacy is opposed by Israel and Arabian countries (verse 13). The principal aggressor comes from the "uttermost parts of the north" (verse 16 RSV). Moscow is directly north of Jerusalem. Verses 17-23 indicate that the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY will come to the aid of His beleaguered people and there will be a great earthquake (see Zechariah 14 and Joel 3 verses 16-21). It will be occasioned by the feet of the Lord Jesus Christ standing on the Mount of Olives. This was promised by the two angels at Jesus' ascension to heaven: Acts 1:1-11 compare with Luke's other record in Luke 24 verses 50-52. John 4 deals with the incident between Jesus and the woman of Samaria in which he offers her "living water". There follows a discussion between Jesus and the woman about the site of acceptable worship - Jerusalem, or Gerazim. Jesus firstly tells her that salvation is from the Jews. Acceptance by God is dependent on two factors sincerity and truth - these have always been the focus at Shechem, and with Joseph and his brothers in Egypt (Joshua 14 verses 14-15; Judges 9 verses 14-15). The woman accepts Jesus as the Christ (Messiah) and she then has an incredible impact on helping the Samaritans to receive Jesus also. Philip would about 7 years later reap the gathering harvest now being sown. That harvest is spoken about in Acts 8. From verse 46 to the end of John chapter 4 our Lord Jesus heals the son of an official from Capernaum - this being the second of the signs recorded by John and resulting in the official and his household believing in the Lord Jesus Christ. That Nobleman is thought by some to be Herod's keeper of the larder ChuzaThanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

1 Chronicles 28 speaks of David's charge to Israel and to Solomon. The very important word in both these charges is "IF". Provided they faithfully adhered to the covenant they would be blessed by Yahweh. Ezekiel 37 is one of the greatest prophecies of the resurrection of Israel, from a people subjected to genocide during the Holocaust, to a nation reborn on May 14, 1948. Ezekiel the prophet saw a vision of a valley full of dried human bones, the bones of national Israel. The imagery is graphic and startling. Think as you read it and reflect. Consider the words of verses 13-14(see Romans 11:15-32). They have been revived, but are not yet restored to the people of their Sovereign. This will occur when the Lord Jesus Christ comes and is accepted by them. At that time, they will be reborn and grafted back into fellowship and covenant again. Unfortunately, much suffering will precede that time as chapter 38 tells. Indeed, how near we are to that time. Note the chapter requires a monarchy over them with our Lord as the "King of the Jews". In John 2 we have the first of the signs of the account. When Yahweh brought Israel out of Egypt, at the time of the Exodus, their departure was accompanied by miracles, wonders (Hebrew 'Pala' - cp the angel Palmoni - the wonderful numberer) and signs. That Hebrew word is the equivalent of "signs' in the record of John. It took place at Cana, in Galilee. Jesus was there, together with his mother and his disciples of chapter 1. It was perhaps the wedding of a relative. The sign was the turning of water into the highest quality wine. The result was verse 11 - his disciples believing in him and the manifestation of his glory. Between verses 13-22 Jesus cleansed the temple for the first time - doing so again at the end of his ministry. He fulfilled the words of Psalm 69 and gave them the sign of his resurrection after 3 days in the grave. There are many signs in John's record of his visits to Jerusalem which are omitted by the other three accounts. At the end of John 2 we are told Jesus would not commit himself to them (since he knew humans - likely in three ways: 1) what Scripture revealed; 2) experience; 3) the ability to read minds). We need to try to understand the zeal that motivated our Lord Jesus Christ. Chapter 3 told of the first encounter between our Lord and Nicodemus, the holder of the second rank in the Sanhedrin ('the teacher'). John records the first of the 3 incidents - ch3; ch7; and ch19. Each is a step in coming to know the Christ (ch3 the man who came by night; ch7 he who first came by night; and ch19 an open disciple, who brought the spices to prepare Jesus' body). The talk centred in the imperative of being born "from above" - firstly by a mind developed by the Word of God 1 Peter 1:22-25 and then by immersion, or burial, in water. The 3rd chapter of John tells us that Jesus is the only man to go to heaven (v13) and salvation comes through belief in a crucified Messiah (v14 cp Numbers 21:4-9). Even John the Baptist acknowledging that Jesus would increase but that he (John) would decrease. B The best-known words of the Bible are found in John 3:16 - but read aloud and ponder verses 16-21. From verses 22 to the chapter's end, we are told of the incomparable greatness of our Lord Jesus Christ.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

1 Chronicles 27 deals with the military divisions and the leaders, or princes of the tribes. To us the chapter may seem irrelevant, even somewhat trivial, but this is not so. The role of the gatekeepers in Temple worship is fundamental: it includes the admission of only those who are sincere in their worship and also valuing truth: John 4 verses 21-24. Hence in Psalm 84:10, a psalm written by gatekeepers (the sons of Korah) we read: "I would rather be a gatekeeper of the House of God than to dwell in the tents of wickedness". The writer said earlier in the same verse: "a day in Your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere". It seems that the pattern of David's administration is a pattern for that which will exist in Messiah's kingdom. Ezekiel chapter 36 is a prophecy towards the mountains of Israel. The mountains of Israel is an expression, which dominates these prophecies of the restoration. It is against "the mountains of Israel" that Gogue will come in Ezekiel 38. The nations who have reproached Israel, says chapter 36, will experience the wrath of Yahweh the God of Israel. By contrast, the mountains of Israel, would thrive flourish and grow. 1948 saw the commencement of that process with the state of Israel being proclaimed on May 14th. Israel's reproach will soon be ended and they once again shall be the people of the LORD. The Almighty has done this not because they have been a deserving nation. On the contrary it is in vindication of that name - which they have disgraced and profaned among the nations, where they were scattered. It is because He is the faithful GOD who keeps the covenant He made with Abraham. The time is soon coming when He will remove their stony heart and give them a vibrant fleshy heart. His spirit will be within them and they will be His people and He will be their God. They will be the paradise of the LORD- Eden restored. The gospel record of John was most likely the last of the four written. Nor is it a summary of the ministry of the life of our Lord Jesus Christ. There are many more references to people discovering that Jesus was the Christ. Its theme is stated in chapter 20:31 "These things are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you might have life through his name." It records 8 signs, which are emphatic proofs of the stated theme. Chapter 1 is deliberately a parallel to Genesis 1. For just as Genesis 1 described the natural creation, which came into being through the Word of God in six days. Two groups of three repeated - LIGHT, WATER, LIFE; days 1-3 are paralleled and duplicated in days 4-6.; so too with the new spiritual creation in Christ. Jesus is declared to have come to his own (by ellipsis- people ) and failed to be accepted. This was not the case among believers. What a lofty theme. Jesus was the Word of God in the flesh i.e. one of us in nature and passions; and yet without sin totally revealing the Father's character to humanity. Read aloud verses 14-17 - Pause and Ponder. John was the disciple who rested on Jesus' bosom during the Last Supper and surely he writes with a measure of understanding his comments in chapter 1:18. The record of Jesus' baptism followed with John theBaptist's announcement of verse 29 "Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." From verses 35-42 we have the earliest call of the first four of Jesus' disciples (later to become his Apostles) Andrew and John, Peter and James. From verses 43-51 we have the call of Philip and Nathanael. The latter convinced by our Lord's ability to reveal what Nathanael was thinking that Jesus must be the Son of God and the King of Israel. Twice in the chapter we are told that these men had found the Messiah i.e. the Christ - first by Andrew (v41) and then Nathanael (v49). But the reality was he had found them and extended to them the authority to become 'the sons of God' (verses 12-13).

A @Christadelphians Video: Dr. S. Palmer discusses the relationship between science and the Bible, arguing they are not contradictory, but rather complementary.### Highlights-

Those of you who are young know what it is to have “a work out” – we understand it as a simple way of saying – exercising to keep yourself fit.   It is just as important; well, actually far more important, to keep ourselves spiritually fit.  If you are really young and feel very physically fit, then make sure your aim is also to grow up and become spiritually fit.Note the phrase that occurs in our Philippians readings this morning.  Paul writes, “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you both to will and to work for his good pleasure” [2,12-13]  That's a fantastic verse … God works in us!     But if we are not interested in him and do not meditate on his involvement in our lives, then we cannot expect him to watch over us in whatever “work out” we choose.      If we choose to “work out” God's way then we will be training ourselves to think and act in a Christ like way and we will use our lives to serve him.For example, we will aim to follow Paul's advice “being in full accord and one mind” with those also in training. “Do nothing from rivalry or conceit” counselled Paul, “but in humility count others more significant than yourselves”  [2 v.2,3]We have also been reading Ezekiel and the Jews he knew totally failed the spiritual “work out” God expected of them.  He had been patient with them over many generations but now all sorts of terrible things happened to them, as we have been reading.  Our God is very patient; he wants us to be saved, to be in his wonderful kingdom which will soon come on this earth.Just as we do physical exercises, especially the young – but also those not so young who still want to feel “young.”  In the same way both young and old must exercise their minds about God and Jesus by reading God's word.In that way we will know what to pray for – and our prayers will be answered.  But if we only pray when we are in trouble, is it fair to expect God to answer?  Trouble is certainly coming on this earth – we will need to be spiritually fit as fully as possible to cope with it.  Is there enough oil (of faith) in your lamps?

1 Chronicles 26 commences with the divisions of the gatekeepers. We may consider this role to be of insignificance, however it was a vital role in Temple worshipping. The gatekeepers would only admit those who had a sincere love of God and His Truth: John verses :21-24. Such wonderful men as the sons of Korah became gatekeepers after putting the LORD before family loyalty. Consider their words in Psalm 84 verse:10 "I would rather be a gatekeeper in the House of my God than to dwell in the tents of wickedness". These words have their background in Korah's rebellion spoken of in Numbers 16. It would seem that David's administration is a pattern for Messiah's i.e. our Lord Jesus Christ in the kingdom age. The Hebrew word David' means 'beloved' and so it seems that the arrangements that David made for his kingdom are a type of those of God's Beloved Son. In Ezekiel 35 we have judgment on Edom (Esau), or Mount Seir. Of all Israel's neighbours those who have shown the most inveterate hatred have been the Edomites (see Malachi 1). The whole of the prophecy ofTop of the DocumentObadiah tells of a perpetual hatred, which knew no bounds in finding ways to destroy their brother, Israel. The Edomites stand as the great archetypal enemy of Yahweh. No wonder there will be great rejoicing in the whole world at their destruction. In the first eleven verses of Philippians 3 we have extreme language used by the Apostle in relation to his foes - who Paul says are savage dogs. Those Judaizers gloried in all their fleshly achievements. By contrast Paul counted such attainments as he had (and they were a very impressive list) to be futile refuse. The Apostle is waiting for the righteousness that only comes through faith. Paul says that in knowing Christ and aligning himself with our Lord's values is all that matters. The Apostle wanted a resurrection like Christ's - i.e. to stand out from among the dead ones. And to that end Paul would press to strive for the upward calling in his Lord. This calling involves a citizenship of the heavenly kingdom that will be established on earth when the Saviour returns and changes the body of our humiliation to be like unto his own glorious body (see 1 John 3 verse 1-3). In chapter 4 Paul beseeches two fine sisters, who could not get on with one another, to reconcile for the sake of the ecclesia. He thanks the Philippians for their continued generous support in contributing to his preaching, upkeep and welfare. Our God will in His time recompense those who put the success of the gospel foremost. Let us pause and ponder the sentiments of verse 13 - "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me".Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

Ezekiel, somewhat like Jeremiah, has a challenging time in being a prophet of the LORD.  The reaction to his message is somewhat different, but it does have lessons for us today.  He is told by the LORD, “As for you … your people who talk together about you by the walls and at the doors of the houses, say to one another, each to his brother, ‘Come and hear what the word is that comes from the LORD.' And they come to you as people come, and they sit before you as my people, and they hear what you say but they will not do it …” [v.30-31]Do we read the Bible?  Do we like doing so?  Do we like talking about it? Do we like hearing God's word explained?   What effect does all this have?  It must have an influence on the way we think and the way we live – we must not be like those who heard Ezekiel..God tells Ezekiel that he is aware of the answers to these questions:  what God says is most interesting (and maybe surprising (to us)!   God says, “Behold you are to them like one who sings lustful songs (AV/ASV ‘very lovely songs') with a beautiful voice and plays well on an instrument for they hear what you say …” [v.32]Can it be that reading God's word and listening to others talk about it makes us feel respectable and good? Remember what Jesus said, “… my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it.” [Luke 8 v.21]  We show we “hear” by what we do as a result.   But of those who heard Ezekiel – God says, “they hear what you say but they will not do it; for … their heart is set on gain” – so very many are swept along by what is valued in this life..   We read earlier in the chapter of God's commission to Ezekiel – do we not have the same commission?  “I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel.  Whenever you hear a word from my mouth, you shall give them warning from me” [v.7]   There was plenty for Ezekiel to warn them about. Note v.11, God says, “I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked”  But history testifies to how often God has, in the end, destroyed the godless. God's judgements finally came on Israel – and they will do so today to the Gentiles.  The final words in the chapter are, “When this comes – then they will know that a prophet has been among them”   All around us people are turning away from God, many are not even sure he exists, some declare they are certain that he doesn't!    But all need to be aware of God's warnings!   True believers should sense they are following in Ezekiel's footsteps – don't you feel that responsibility?  .  Are you playing well on your instrument?  The reaction of the hearers is not primarily your responsibility!

1 Chronicles 24 deals with the division of the 24 orders of priests arranged by Samuel and David. Chapter 25 deals with the orders of the singers and musicians for the temple choirs. Why were the musicians and singers so arranged? It is because divine worship is sacred and not haphazard. It is related to the "worshiping of Yahweh in the beauty of holiness" Psalm 96:8. There were 24 appointed divisions of the singers and this surely takes us to the 24 elders who praised the LORD's appointed king Messiah i.e. our Lord Jesus Christ in Revelation 4 verse 8-11; 5 verses 8-14. Heman and Jeduthan were the chief arrangers of the choirs and the musicians. Asaph was the one who oversaw the process and who also wrote several magnificent Psalms. Asaph's legacy to the nation lasted 450 years. Ezekiel 34 tells of the disgraceful behaviour of the cruel and greedy shepherds of Israel. The primary sin of those shepherds was selfishness: they looked after themselves and not God's flock. It was true in the days of the prophet. Even more true at the time of the Lord Jesus Christ. Yahweh would not tolerate the treatment of His sheep by these corrupt and profligate leaders. God would care for them. Israel's Sovereign will provide for them and seek out pasture for His people. And by His Son the Almighty would restore and feed them. The Lord Jesus Christ in John 10 is the Good Shepherd; in 1 Peter 5 he is the Chief Shepherd; and in Hebrews 13 he is the Great Shepherd. According to Acts 28 Paul spent two years under house arrest in Rome (AD62-64). During this time Philippians, and Philemon were written. Acts 16 provides the background to the gospel arriving in Philippi., where his preaching awaits "hearts opened by God" in Lydia and the Philippian jailor and others. Philippians is called Paul's letter of joy and its theme is, "Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice." In chapter 1 of the letter the Apostle describes his constant thanksgiving for the love of the believers in that city. Philippi was a colony which was heavily Roman in every way. Paul tells the believers in Christ in that city of the advance of the gospel in Rome and that even members of the Praetorian guard had become faithful believers. Unfortunately, not all 'brethren' were happy - there was a group of false believers (known as Judaizers) whose motives for preaching were to see Paul persecuted. Paul, indeed, would have been happy to die for the faith, nonetheless he felt that by continuing to live he would be of greater benefit to the believers. In chapter 2 we have wonderful exhortations of Christ's mindset, as always being to honour and exalt his Father and for the benefit of others. Let that, said Paul, be the attitude of every faithful saint. As God's Son our Lord had a status higher than anyone yet he suffered as a servant in his death on the cross. Christ is now exalted at the Father's right hand and having his Father's name the of Yahweh Himself (Isaiah 45): compare with Revelation 14 verses 1-5. Believers bear the responsibility of shining as lights to this twisted world. The Apostle shows that Timothy and Epaphroditus both demonstrate Christ-like love for the believers in Philippi. The two faithful and indefatigable labourers own lives were put behind them in the course of their own efforts to advance the gospel.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

1 Chronicles chapter 23 deals with the order of the Levites and their offerings. The Levites were drawn from the three principal families of Gershom, Kohath and Merari. Verses 30-32 tell us of their responsibility for the praising and giving of thanks to Yahweh. Additionally, those Levites were responsible for maintaining the furnishings of the Temple. From Ezekiel chapters 33-39 we have what are termed "prophecies of the restoration", and those prophecies have reference from 1948 onwards. Chapter 33 has a universal application to every age, as it outlines the responsibilities of a watchman. We are all to be watchmen insofar as we must provide a warning whenever we see danger nearing. If we do not provide any warning we bare the guilt of the loss of life that has occurred. How pertinent were the words in the prophet's own time with the Babylonian invasions (of which there were four). At a personal level believers owe it to one another to warn of peril. Chapters 4-6 of Ephesians focus more on practical matters, whereas the first three looked at teaching. From verses 1-21 there is a call to imitate our Heavenly Father, and like Christ Jesus to walk in love. From chapter 5 verses 22-33 husbands and wives are instructed - once again the love of Christ is our example. Paul shows that, like our Lord, husbands must sacrifice themselves for the salvation of their wives and themselves. Genesis 2 provides us with a parable about Christ and his bride - the ecclesia. The 6th chapter moves to the product of marriage - children. The Apostle tells his hearers that among the Ten Commandments the 5th is the first one to attract a promise. "Honour your father and mother; that your days may be long on the earth". Additionally, fathers need to understand that children must be encouraged, rather than constantly criticised. The Apostle follows with instructions about proper behaviour between masters and servants. We all have Christ as our Master and so service must be from the heart and not only when the boss is looking. In the Roman world at this time two thirds of all people were slaves. The chapter concludes with the need to put on the whole armour of God (the panoply). Note that all of the weapons are defensive with the exception of the sword of the spirit, which is the Word (the Greek word means 'the spoken word') of God. Our Bibles are useless unless they are in our minds and on our tongues. In his final greetings Paul states his love for all the believers who love our Lord sincerely.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

After reading today's 4 chapters we felt we could write a book about all the challenging points of interest in them. Ch. 21 in 1 Chron starts,  “Then Satan stood against Israel and incited David to number Israel.”  The parallel passage in 2 Sam 24 makes no mention of a “satan.” Remarkably it says, “the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel and he incited David …” !  Our conclusion is that he allowed David's own mind to have its way because he had reason to discipline Israel – and also teach David a lesson.     In our chapter today David admits, “I have sinned greatly in that I have done this thing” [v.8]  We can see that ‘satan' is a figure of speech that is often used in scripture to describe an adverse attitude of mind, one that swamps our efforts at good thinking. Satan is the Hebrew word ‘satanas' and it first occurs in Numbers 22 v.22 and again in v.32 to describe, (as translated in the A V) how an angel God sent stood in the way to be an ‘adversary' to ‘withstand' Balaam, a bad prophet.  It is not easy to get our minds around this phraseology of Scripture, but God's angel was a ‘satan.'.     We read last month in 2 Cor. 12 v.7-10 that Paul realised that God – to “keep” him “from being too elated by the surpassing greatness of the revelations (he hand experienced)  a thorn was given me in the flesh', says Paul,,” a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from being too elated.”  The paradox is Paul's conclusion in v.9, 10, “For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses … for when I am weak, then I am strong.”   This means, strong in the ways that matter, in one's working with and reliance upon God, and, as a result appreciating such ”thorns” that cause this.     In our Ephesians reading Paul tells them how ”you once walked, following the course of this world, the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work among the sons of disobedience – among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and mind … like the rest of mankind.” [ch. 2 v.2,3]     Taking the passage as a whole we can see that our “desires of the body (flesh – Footnote) and mind do not mean we are controlled or influenced by some evil spirit power – like puppets on a string – but that our lives present us with two options – to remain “dead “ (v.5) to being influenced by the ways of God, becoming more and more self-centred instead of Christ-centred –  or to be “made … alive together with Christ (who) … raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.” [v.6-7]  Are you succeeding in living in “heavenly” places?     So again we have the broad and narrow ways – we either walk on our own, stumbling along the broad way (or rushing along it!) – or – by feeding diligently on God's word – we increasingly show “we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” [v.10]

1 Chronicles 22 commences with David's preparation for the building of the temple. Since David had been forbidden from building he could have left the task to Solomon. But no, he shows a wonderful spirit in totally throwing his energies into preparing for building the temple. David then charges his son with the responsibility of the task. Yahweh tells of Solomon's part in the building of that magnificent house. God outlines that Solomon would be a son of the promise, which was restated. But Solomon could not fulfill all the terms of the covenant since Solomon came to the throne while David is still living. Also, God's mercy departed from Solomon who in his later life strays from the ways of His God. Additionally, Solomon was not literally the Father's son. Brother Islip Collyer in his magnificent book - "Conviction and Conduct" on page 142 wrote of David's wonderful spirit as follows: "that David's plan to build the temple was inspired by pure zeal for Divine things and not with an idea of self-aggrandisement; for despite hisfrustrated intention he still thanked God for the mercies promised and started with zeal on such work as was permitted". Chapter 32 of Ezekiel contains a lament on Egypt, who is likened to a dragon (crocodile) lying in the Nile. The annual blessing that came from the deposit of rich alluvial sediment, due to rains falling in central Africa, would cease. This has happened ever since the completion of the Aswan high dam. The construction of that dam has been disastrous. Disease has increased and there has been a massive reduction of agriculture and fishing. These disasters have resulted in the once mighty Egyptian empire becoming a minor nation. Like many of the other nations Egypt would be brought low. Egypt is thus another testimony to the fact that: "the Most High rules in the kingdoms of men" Daniel 4:17. In Ephesians 3 the Apostle Paul outlines the 'mystery' (the Greek word simply means 'secret') that God always intended for the Gentiles to be included in the blessings of the gospel. From verses 14-22 we read of the Apostle's prayer for the believers' spiritual strength and growth. Notice that the love of God surpasses understanding and includes four dimensions - length, breadth, depth and height. This indicates that the love of the Father cannot be measured. Chapter 4 contains a plea for unity among the body of believers. In the truth there is a sevenfold unity (verses 4-6). This is essentially because God, our Father is one. Those verses cite several Old Testament Scriptures supporting this purpose - Psalm 68; Deuteronomy 30. The result is that the distribution of gifts is defined by the function they fulfil in promoting and producing a united body. Each believer has been called to a new life described in verses 17-32. Carefully read verses 20-24 which tell us how faithful believers in Christ live by modelling their lives on his. Also contemplate the need to replace old evil habits with positive beneficial behaviours as verses 25-32 teach us. The last three verses say that any failure to act in a way that reveals that we arethe children of the Almighty will grieve our loving Heavenly Father. The only way to overcome sin is by"replacement therapy".

‘Keeping Your Garments in a Shameless World'This two-part presentation was prompted by comments made on line by female Christian writers on the subject of nudity and dress codes. The comments were discovered by the presenter during research on the subject of modesty. In the opinion of these writers ‘there is no dress code' in the Bible. Furthermore, given that God at creation pronounced Adam and Eve ‘very good' in their naked state, then the concern for their nakedness and fig leaf invention and the subsequent skin covering provided by God was only to appease their shame. The writer's conclusion being that God was fine with them staying as they were. In fairness the author discussing nudity, was not suggesting that women should go about naked but simply that public nudity was not at a fundamental level a problem with God. The purpose of our presentations is to explore the Bible position on dress code, and nudity in session one, under the title “God Doesn't Care What I Wear”, and the second session the more nuanced subject of Modesty, under the heading of “The Woman is the Glory of the Man”. A @Christadelphians Video: Description: As far as God is concerned, clothing was designed to represent humility and separation. We find that the Bible starts with nakedness and ends with appropriate clothing. God's view of modesty expected in a worshipper, as outlined in the Bible, is explored. Consideration is given to the roles of men and women as symbolising Christ and his Bride."Highlights

A @Christadelphians Video: This two-part presentation was prompted by comments made on line by female Christian writers on the subject of nudity and dress codes. The comments were discovered by the presenter during research on the subject of modesty. In the opinion of these writers ‘there is no dress code' in the Bible. Furthermore, given that God at creation pronounced Adam and Eve ‘very good' in their naked state, then the concern for their nakedness and fig leaf invention and the subsequent skin covering provided by God was only to appease their shame. The writer's conclusion being that God was fine with them staying as they were. In fairness the author discussing nudity, was not suggesting that women should go about naked but simply that public nudity was not at a fundamental level a problem with God. The purpose of our presentations is to explore the Bible position on dress code, and nudity in session one, under the title “God Doesn't Care What I Wear”, and the second session the more nuanced subject of Modesty, under the heading of “The Woman is the Glory of the Man”. Description: As far as God is concerned, clothing was designed to represent humility and separation. We find that the Bible starts with nakedness and ends with appropriate clothing. God's view of modesty expected in a worshipper, as outlined in the Bible, is explored. Consideration is given to the roles of men and women as symbolising Christ and his Bride."Highlights

A @Christadelphians Video: # SummaryThis presentation provides a detailed explanation of the atonement and the significance of Jesus Christ's sacrifice in reconciling humanity to God. It explores the biblical principles of sin, both moral and physical, and how Christ's sinless nature and sacrificial death addressed the root cause of sin, enabling salvation for those who believe.Highlights

A @Christadelphians Video: # SummaryThis presentation explores the fundamental principles of the Christian faith, particularly the doctrine of the Atonement. It delves into the biblical account of the Fall of man, the resulting sinful state of humanity, and the need for sacrifice and forgiveness as outlined in the Old Testament.Highlights

 Modern pictures often portray contrasting colours.  They rather hit you in the eye, whites and yellows, set against blues, blacks and reds.   This is particularly the case in advertising, as they try to grab our attention.     Our reading today in Galatians does not set colours in contrast – it sets human behaviour!  It describes the good things in human behaviour that our God and our Saviour Jesus are looking to see. These are “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (5 v.22-23)     The things that God and Jesus hate to see are “sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality … jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries … envy, drunkenness, orgies and things like that” (5 v.19-21)     Paul's warning about the second list is “I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God”     There is no middle way!  It's either a broad way, which the majority follow, or the narrow way.  The ecclesia at Laodicea was condemned because it was neither one thing or the other, it was “lukewarm” (Rev. 3 v.16)   So many are lukewarm today – the whole gospel that seems to be proclaimed is ‘love your neighbour as yourself and never do anyone any wrong'. That is good, it is a vital part of the foundation we set in place in accepting Christ, but that foundation has to be built upon.     There is real true joy and peace when we join together to follow the narrow way in contrast to the “emptiness” of humanity today – for the narrow way – and the truth of God's word with which that way is ‘paved' (such as knowing the real nature of life after death in God's kingdom) is what our Saviour looks to see in us and loves those who walk along that way. Are you walking so that he loves you?

1 Chronicles 20 continues the story with the capture of Rabbah, the Ammonite capital, in the following spring. The crown of the Ammonite king, weighing about 35 kilograms was taken to David and placed on his head. David put the Ammonites to hard work to pay tribute to Israel. The chapter concludes with the destruction of four of the Philistine giants, all of whom are related to Goliath and all are slain by David's warriors. Chapter 21 of 1 Chronicles finds David and all Israel in an exalted state of pride. David orders a census of the strength of the army. Joab pleaded with him not to do this; since victory was through Yahweh's saving arm and was independent of the size of the army. The king's word prevails and the census is taken but excludes Benjamin and Levi - as Joab had sway there. The record indicates that on this occasion Joab was correct and David was wrong. The prophet Gad was sent to David to tell him to choose between 3 punishments. David leaves the choice to God and for three days plague ravages the land. Eventually the plague is stayed at Jerusalem when David purchases the future site of the temple and offers sacrifices to the LORD. David, who had been Israel's shepherd, intercedes on behalf of his suffering sheep. What a lesson for all! Ezekiel chapter 31 contains many similarities to chapter 28. Just as the prince of Tyre had been a cedar in the garden of Eden, so too is Pharaoh of Egypt described in the same terms. He would be judged and brought low by Judah's Sovereign God. Pharaoh, Egypt, the Nile river and the crocodile - also known as the dragon- would be humbled by the Lord GOD Almighty. Nebuchadnezzar would be God's instrument in the overthrowing of the wicked kingdom of Judah. The Apostle Paul eventually came to Ephesus on his third missionary journey, after more than one unsuccessful attempts to visit Asian cities on the second journey. Western Turkey was in those days known as "Asia". The LORD was waiting for the best time for the preaching of the gospel. Acts 19 records the events at Ephesus. The Word of the Lord grew mightily and prevailed in that city and it became Paul's base of operations throughout the then known region of Asia. Chapter 1 contains greetings and the faithful in Ephesus being described as having, in status, been elevated to heavenly places in Christ Jesus. From verses 15-22 the Apostle offers prayer and thanksgiving on the believers' behalf. Paul outlines in verses 19-22 the great place Christ occupies to all believers. The Apostle tells the Ephesians that in the Lord Jesus Christ the Almighty's power was seen in producing a righteous man who could then be raised from the dead. As an aside which may be of some interest for those studying this chapter: all four Greek words for 'power' are used in those verses. Chapter 2 deals with the enlightenment of believers and their salvation by grace - on the basis of their faith. Believers salvation has nothing to do with their merits. However, a life of gratitude is necessitated from believers. In verses 11-18 Paul outlines the faithful's changed status from hopeless nobodies to sanctified believers in Christ Jesus. The chapter concludes with the growth of the body of believers into a holy temple. A dwelling place for the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY. Slowly read aloud verses 17-22 and consider the foundation God has given us and that each of us determine to be a part of the LORD's holy edifice.

A @Christadelphians Video: SummaryThe video discusses the significance of the crisis faced by King Hezekiah as narrated in Isaiah 36-39, highlighting the structured arrangement of these chapters and their deeper meanings. It explores the dual crises of invasion and illness that Hezekiah experienced, emphasising how these events serve as a prophetic foreshadowing of the atoning work of Christ. The video also delves into the themes of divine deliverance, the righteousness of God, and the importance of humility and faith in overcoming life's challenges.Highlights

A @Christadelphians Video: Explore the profound connection between current events in Gaza and the prophetic timeline of Scripture. This insightful report examines the recent evacuation orders and military developments, not merely as geopolitical news, but as significant markers in the unfolding story of Israel. We provide an expositional look at the ancient prophecies from Isaiah, Joel, Zechariah, and Ezekiel that speak directly to the modern reality of the conflict. This thought-provoking analysis reveals how the spirit of ancient enmity continues to manifest and how these events align with Biblical warnings for the latter days. Gain an outstanding perspective on what these events mean for the future and how believers are called to respond with vigilance and hope. **This video contains 3 images of the Oct 7th attacks that some viewers may find disturbing**

1 Chronicles 18 gives a catalogue of David's victories over his enemies- this is a parallel of 2 Samuel 8 and a continuation of the enacted parable. Psalm 110 establishes that when Messiah commences his reign it will be in the midst of his enemies. Verses 14-17 tell of his administration. The 19th chapter of 1 Chronicles spoke of a war being occasioned by diplomacy gone wrong. The Ammonites thought David's emissaries were spies and treated them disgracefully. The result was a war in which Israel was hard pressed by the combined Ammonite/Syrian army; but which eventually ended in a rout of David's foes. May we so live that we may be with Messiah to help establish his everlasting kingdom. Ezekiel chapter 30 continues the judgment of Nebuchadnezzar on Egypt, of its wealth and wisdom. The centres of the gods throughout the extent of the land were degraded and humiliated. The principal officers of Egypt would be scattered among the surrounding nations. Thanks be that our Sovereign has brought us out of the darkness of idolatry to serve the Living and True God. In chapter 5 of Galatians Paul calls upon believers to stand fast in the liberty that was theirs in Christ. Read verse 6 aloud - pause and ponder. The only effective position was to live by a life of faith, energised by love, which purified the believer's walk. The faithful had started their course well, but had been hindered by false brethren - called Judaizers. The Law, says the Apostle, can be summarised in one word, LOVE. We, as believers, need to make sure that we keep in step as one, moving forward in an unbroken phalanx. The fruit of the spirit is outlined in verses 22-23 and contrasts with the WORKS of the flesh in verses 19-21 (these are all natural to us and the doing of these habitually will exclude from the kingdom of God). In chapter 6 we are told of the need to help one another carry a load weighing heavily on a brother, or sister. Additionally, we need to endure our own load and carry it with courage. To help another in their time of need meekness and understanding will be necessary. Endurance is required to reap the harvest the Almighty has graciously given us. We must help all, but first priority is for believers. The letter closes with final blessings and warnings - Paul bore in his body the 'stigmata' (evidence of crucifixion). So do not be dismissive of his dire warning. But for those who walk faithfully in the glorious liberty of those in Christ there will be peace. Let us so walk that by God's grace we will walk with the Son of the Father during the kingdom and with our God after that forever.

In Galatians 3 Paul says that his readers must have been bewitched to turn from the evidence, seen in himself, of Christ placard before them as a crucified one. He asks the Galatians if had they received the spirit gifts through works of law, or by the hearing of faith. Verses 6-9 cite the Scripture from Genesis 15:6 - Abraham could DO nothing but believe and trust God. What Abraham did was to believe to God. And our Heavenly Father counted that belief to Abraham as righteousness. The gospel, says Paul, was taught to Abraham in Genesis 12 verse 3, when he was told "In you shall nations of the earth be blessed" - see Romans 4 verse 13. Paul actually quotes a hybrid of Genesis 12:3 and Genesis 22 verse 18 - as Peter likewise does in Acts 3 verse25. All the Law of Moses could do was curse those who were subject to it and prove to them the utter sinfulness of human nature. The other thing that the Law did was to curse a sinless man who was hung on a tree in crucifixion - that was our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, the Law had to be annulled. Any law that brought condemnation on a righteous man, must be revoked. Verse 16 says that the promise was about one specific seed alone, the Christ. To be saved the one requirement is faith and the acknowledging of one's belief by becoming one with Christ through baptism. Whoever is baptised becomes clothed with Christ and receives by imputation Christ's righteousness. Verses 26-29 establish that in Christ there are no gender distinctions, no social strata differences and no racial discrimination. All equally receive the salvation offered in Christ Jesus and are each one an heir of what the Almighty promised in His Son. Chapter 4 tells us that to attain to sonship we must as children first go through training, whose appointments are of the father until the time determined. Christ came in the fulness of time for the purpose of redemption in general; and particularly for those under the Law to liberate them from the curse. From verses 8-20 Paul expresses his concern for the Galatians servile adherence to days and rituals, which have only a negative effect on spirituality. The chapter concludes with an allegory regarding the sons of Sarah and Hagar, about the freedom in Christ in contrast to the slavish servitude to law.

In 1 Chronicles 16 we have the ark finally arriving at Zion after the disastrous first attempt. It was placed in the tent David had pitched for it. And after the spirit of the Melchizedek king priest, David as a great sign of fellowship offers to all the people bread (meat) and wine (in the form of clusters of raisins). Burnt offerings and thanksgiving offerings accompany these actions and all the people receive portions of these offerings. Verses 8 to 35 record David's Psalm of thanksgiving, which was sung by the 24 orders of priests (previously organised by Samuel and David). The people enthusiastically respond in verse 36, "AMEN". The praise for Yahweh's 'chesed' - "loving kindness" continues. Psalm 132 was composed to commemorate the bringing of the ark to Zion - read it and marvel as it speaks of the righteousness andTop of the Documentsalvation, that will be ushered in when the glorious Kingdom of the Son of God comes. The Psalm needs to be read in conjunction with 1 Chronicles 17. In Ezekiel 28 we have a parabolic taunt against Tyre. In the days of Solomon, they shared in the brotherly covenant and cooperated in all things. Deterioration came between the kingdoms, as evil kings came to reign. The language is picturesque, but when read carefully, totally understandable. Verse 2 addresses the prince of Tyre - a man. Commercial and maritime wisdom abounded in this city state. They were not supernatural for the account says that they were slain by the sword. From verses 12-19 the Tyrians were in Eden - a geographic region described in Genesis 2. Then the chapter tells us of judgments on Sidon, Tyre's sister city. When Yahweh brought these judgments Israel would be regathered and restored. In Galatians we have one of the earliest books of the New Testament to be written- perhaps as early as AD42 depending upon the theory which adopted. The book must have been written after the Jerusalem' Conference, which was about the date mentioned previously. Galatians is the second of three treatises on the Atonement i.e. how sinners can be made right with God - the others being Romans and Hebrews. All three books are based on Habakkuk 2:4, "The just shall live by faith". The emphasis in Romans is the JUST...; in Galatians it is ... LIVE by faith; and in Hebrews.. live by FAITH. The problem of Judaism is addressed in this book. The Judaizers, Paul's constant foes, taught salvation was by works of the Law, and not by faith. They preached that Christ and belief in him were insufficient to save - that the keeping of the Law was also necessary in order to be saved. In Galatians 1 Paul establishes his credentials and says how he was called to the gospel. Paul also indicates that a curse would rest on anyone preaching a variant of the only true gospel. The Apostle explains that the gospel message was given him in Arabia by direct revelation i.e. personally taught it by Jesus Christ - none of the other Apostles were in any way connected with his instruction. Chapter 2 teaches us of the firm stance that Paul took on not circumcising Titus. The chapter also spoke of Peter's equivocation and hypocrisy, when confronted by false brethren called Judaizers. Read verses 15-21 aloud. Pause and ponder. Let each of us determine to live our life in Christ Jesus as the great Apostle did.

1 Chronicles chapter 14 deals, firstly, with David's wives and sons; and then with two miraculous victories over the Philistines as they sought to destroy David before he had opportunity to organise his kingdom. Verses 8-12 tell of the LORD's instructions to David and His aiding of the king when the Philistines launched an attack on an unprepared Israel. These verses reveal David's thanks for Yahweh's aiding Israel and giving them the victory. Verses 13-16 says that the Philistines tried another attack shortly after the first failure. Once again the Almighty went before His people who heard the movements of the angelic hosts in the tops of the balsam trees. As a result of these two mighty victories the surrounding nations were in awe of Israel and their God. The comments lack commentary for 1 Chronicles 15. These will be added in the next few days. The 27th chapter of Ezekiel contains a lament over how great Tyre had been brought low. The Tyrians had enlisted the best of all nations into their military machine. Tyre had become wealthy through her commercial enterprises. Any nation that had assisted Tyre also prospered from their association with Tyre. Indeed, the humanly unexpected demise of Tyre illustrates Daniel's declaration: "The Most High rules in the Kingdom of men" Daniel 4:17. But none of those nations cared that Yahweh had brought Tyre low. Their only concern was that no longer would the wealth that the Phoenicians had thought to be theirs belong to them. Verses 1-12 of Luke 24 describe events associated with the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. The time of his raising would have been 6pm Saturday evening, which by Jewish way of reckoning time began the first day of the week. The women, of whom there may have been around six in number, find the stone which had been sealing the tomb, rolled back. Two men, who stood by (undoubtedly angels), tell them not to seek the living Lord among the dead. But, that Jesus' disciples are to meet him in Galilee as he had told them before his death. Several of the women ran to tell the news to the Apostles, who found the women's report incredulous. Peter together with John (see John chapter 20) come and verify the women's message. That same day two of our Lord's disciples are journeying to Emmaus and are joined by Jesus. The record tells us that their capacity to recognise the Lord was restrained. The two express their great disappointment in the events that had taken place recently. Jesus takes the initiative and explains from Moses, the Psalms and the prophets the entire picture of Messiah, who had to suffer before being glorified. As the group of three approach a village Jesus indicates that he wishes to travel further, but the other two constrain him to stay with them. Jesus reveals himself to them in the breaking of the bread. The two disciples hastily return to Jerusalem with great excitement. On finding the Apostles assembled together those two hear of Jesus' appearance to Simon Peter and add their own witnessing. The Lord appears to the group assembled and shows them the wounds in his hands and side - some translations say "back". Further Jesus eats some food to show that he was not an apparition. Then the chapter says the Lord gives his Apostles the great commission to take the Gospel into all the world. Luke's final account is that Christ is praying he ascends from the Mount of Olives into heaven (compare Acts 1verses 6-11).

Luke chapter 23 commences with Jesus before the Roman Governor Pilate, who wants nothing to do with the trumped-up charges that had been levelled against our Lord. Pilate pronounces Jesus innocent and on hearing that he was from Galilee felt he could evade any responsibility by sending Jesus to Herod. Herod had been curious about Jesus for some time. Herod questions Jesus and receives no answers. Herod reverts to mocking and handing our Lord over to be brutalised at the hands of his soldiers. Then having found no fault in our Lord, Herod returns him to Pilate - a partial reconciliation occurs between Herod and Pilate - the Governor. Pilate once again declares Jesus innocent, but causes him to be brutally scourged (this was sometimes called the intermediate death - and many a man died under the barbaric scourge). This barbaric act fails to evoke any pity from our Master's foes. For the third time Jesus is pronounced innocent. But the chief priests stir up the crowd to bay for Jesus' blood. Pilate is forced into making a decision he did not want to make. Our Lord is delivered to be crucified, and Barabbas is released. Jesus was so weak that the Romans pressed Simon of Cyrene to carry his crucifixion post. This man and his two sons in future years became disciples. The women wept to behold our Lord, but he tells them not to weep for him, but for the miseries that would fall on them. Jesus is crucified between two thieves, quite possibly Barabbas' followers. The place of his crucifixion was that of a skull; again, in all probability that of Goliath's skull. The soldiers gamble for his clothes, as had been prophesied in Psalm 22. Jesus, himself implores his Father to forgive them as they knew not what they were doing. One of the two thieves rails upon the Lord. The other turns in repentance to Jesus and asks Jesus to remember him when Jesus comes into his kingdom. Very likely the second thief understood the Gospel of the Kingdom. This thief is given the assurance of a place in Christ's Kingdom. Jesus' words were that the thief would be with the Lord in that day. Neither were in paradise that day for Jesus spent three days in the tomb. Our Lord suffered the taunting of sinners, by masterfully controlling himself and being the Victor verses Colossians 2 verses 11-15. About 3pm Jesus dies calmly causing a hardened centurion to exclaim that surely this man was the Son of God. For three hours the Almighty had veiled the scene in darkness, as a sign of His indignation at the wicked doings of those who crucified the Lord of glory. On his death there was a great earthquake, and the veil of the temple was torn by God from top to bottom. The law was now finished, and Christ has accomplished the opening of a new and living way. The Lord Jesus' remarkable control of himself under extreme provocation provides a wonderful example to us as Peter comments in 1 Peter 2 verses 20-25. A rich counsellor of the Sanhedrin begged Pilate for Jesus' body. Pilate enquires if our Lord has died and then hands our Lord's body to Joseph and Nicodemus who take it to Joseph's new and unused garden tomb. The women follow to see where Jesus was laid and to where they would come with the spices, they would purchase to embalm the Lord's body. The women then rest on the Sabbath day. This Sabbath day was a high Sabbath.

A @Christadelphians Video: SummaryThe video discusses the crisis of King Hezekiah, focusing on his recovery from illness and subsequent interactions with Babylonian envoys. After his recovery, Hezekiah displays a renewed commitment to God, which is followed by the miraculous defeat of the Assyrian army. However, Hezekiah's encounter with the ambassadors from Babylon reveals a lapse in judgment, as he shows them his treasures without seeking God's counsel. The prophet Isaiah confronts Hezekiah about this mistake, prophesying that Babylon will eventually take Jerusalem's treasures and even his descendants. The narrative illustrates themes of pride, humility, and the importance of seeking divine guidance in decision-making.Highlights✝️ **Hezekiah's Renewal**: After recovering from illness, Hezekiah pledges to serve God more fervently and safeguard the truth for future generations.

The lesson for disciples of our Lord Jesus Christ is that we must show love to all so as to win men and women for the kingdom. Luke chapter 22 begins with a plot to kill Jesus. The conspirators seek to do this as quietly as possible since the crowds who are filling Jerusalem at Passover were massive and were at this time stirred with patriotic enthusiasm for Jesus' miracles and teachings. Judas, possibly overcome with covetousness, agrees to assist the rulers in their plan. Jesus had secretly prearranged the keeping of his Passover, called the Lord's Supper, one day before his death at Passover. Jesus' death on the stake would coincide exactly with the time of the cutting of the throats of the Passover lambs. Nothing must be allowed to interfere with the time Jesus needs to teach them of his love and the great lessons that would steel them against imminent trouble, as well as ongoing persecution. Jesus next addresses an ongoing discussion that the Apostles had been having behind the Lord's back. "Who would be the greatest in the Kingdom of God?" How petty, and ridiculous when the greatest man who has ever lived was about to lay down his life for them. Greatness is measured, not by esteem, but in service. Peter is told by his Lord of his threefold denial, which would occur before the rooster had crowed twice. The disciples would be confronted by the mob and once their Lord had been taken, they would need to fend for themselves. The reference to swords applies more to a dirk, or hunting knife. Peter and another of the Apostles had recently purchased these in expectation of trouble. In the Garden of Gethsemane our Lord thrice prays seeking, if it were possible, that there might be another way. So intense was his prayer that he sweated like it were great drops of blood. There is a known medical condition where the human body under extreme stress exudes blood through the pores of the skin. This condition is known as haematohidrosis. Consequent on Christ being strengthened by an angel he yielded his will to that of his Father. Yes, indeed, there were two distinct wills - that is impossible if our Lord is one part of the trinity- but here was the Divine Father and His mortal, submissive son. Judas comes at the head of a heavily armed band of temple thugs. How pathetic is it that the sign of Jesus' betrayal was a feigned affectionate kiss. Peter strikes out with his dirk and cuts off the ear of Malchus, the servant of the high priest. Peter is admonished by the Lord who miraculously heals Malchus. This is of course another evidence of Jesus' power as the Son of God. Our Lord meekly submits as a lamb to the slaughter to the vicious mob. Christ is led away to six farcical trials. Verses 54 to 62 record Peter's crumbling under intense and increasing pressure until he eventually caves in totally distraught and weeping in bitter remorse. Jesus is mocked and abused by the temple soldiers. Then he was illegally tried before the council of the 72. They were not allowed to conduct matters carrying a death sentence at night. Jesus quotes to the Council the words of Daniel 7 verses 13-14 and tells them that he will judge them. The other gospel records tell us that even the perjured witnesses could not agree among themselves. The high priest brings the charge of blasphemy against our Lord and against the Law condemns Jesus out of his own mouth. The Law of Moses forbad that.

In 1 Chronicles chapter 11 we have the record of David taking the ancient, but well-fortified fortress of Jebus. We are told of Joab's extraordinary feat of courage in gaining access and securing its fall. The rest of the chapter is a catalogue of David's mighty men and their outstanding acts of courage. These men typify the saints of our Lord Jesus Christ as they will bring the kingdoms of this world into subjection to our Lord Jesus Christ verses Revelation 11 verses 15-18. Ezekiel 24 outlines the parable of the burning pot which represented Jerusalem's fiery destruction. We are also told of the death of the prophet's wife and God's command that Ezekiel does not mourn her death. Likewise, the people were not to mourn the destruction of "the Sanctuary". The very strong language in this prophecy highlights just how offensive unfaithfulness is to Almighty God. So great would be the slaughter at Jerusalem's overthrow. The prophet was struck dumb and remained so until the day the city fell. Luke 21 is the record of the Olivet prophecy given after 6pm on Abib 12th from the mount east of Jerusalem. The significance of the prophecy deals with events that would occur within forty years of its delivery; as well as matters relating to our days (end times) when the Kingdom of God will be once more set up on earth. The chapter began with a declaration of the widow who gave God all. Jesus foretells of the destruction of the magnificent temple, whose building had begun with Herod the Great; and to that point in time had still not been finished. When the temple was destroyed it would be totally overturned leaving not one stone on another - except for the older foundations which acted as a retaining wall for Herod to build on. Jesus says that there would be wars and rumours of wars, but the disciples must wait until the end time of the Lord's prophecy. Persecution would be the disciples' lot, but they would be aided in their testimony before the authorities. Families would be divided over their support for Christ's teaching. Despite Jerusalem being surrounded by armies at AD70 there would be five opportunities for the disciples to flee to safety - the first of these was at the defeat of the Roman Tribune Cestius Gallus in AD66 (the others are mentioned in Robert Roberts book 'The Ways of Providence'). There would be the sign of the Son of Man in heaven, which spoke of the fall of the city to the Roman Emperor Titus. In regards to the final outcome of the prophecy, which relates to the time when the Kingdom of God will be set up on earth; we have the parable of the fig tree (national Israel's symbol), whose statehood began in 1948 and many of us have seen the fig tree blossom and flourish with the reoccupation of Jerusalem, Israel's eternal and undivided capital, in 1967. Be ready our Lord's return and his kingdom is indeed near. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

How vital to know certain things; the young go to school and then, if they are capable, to a University or a higher learning institute to gain additional knowledge or skills so they can more effectively make their way in life. The need for this is self-evident to all – there is no reward for the lazy, although some try to make their way in life through devious or dishonest means.Our thoughts were provoked along these lines by 2 different points Jesus made in his teaching that we read today in Luke ch. 19.  The first is where Jesus weeps over Jerusalem and says. “would that you  … had known on this day the things that make for peace … For the days will come upon you when your enemies will … tear you down to the ground … they will not leave one stone upon another in you because you did not know the time of your visitation.” [v.42-44]In a physical sense they knew the presence of Jesus, but very few knew him as the true Messiah, the son of God.  It is the same today, very few deny that a man called ‘Jesus of Nazareth existed 2,000 years ago, but the impact of what he was, what he taught, the meaning this gave to life, fails to come alive in their minds and so transform their lives to give them real meaning and purpose.The second point arises in the parable Jesus told about a nobleman who gave ten minas to each of his servants (more than 2 years' labourers wages) for them to use in his service while he was away. One of them fails to make any use of it and on the nobleman's return he says to him, “Lord, here is your mina which I kept laid away in a handkerchief.” [v.20] He is rebuked for his failure to do any work for the nobleman and make any gains for him, and is told, “… you wicked servant! You knew I was a severe man …” [v.22]Jesus a severe man!  Well, do you think it right to reward laziness?  How true and wonderful is the love of God and of Jesus – yet in responding to that love as we each must – we must show our love in more than words.  The aged Apostle John wrote, “Little children, let us not love in word or talk, but in deed and in truth.” [1 Jn 3 v.18]Let us all live in a way that shows both in word and actions, the latter confirming our words,  that we are faithful servants ready, at an hour that will surprise us, to greet our nobleman.

The Lord's masterful answer was that they were clearly wrong on two counts - one being a failure to understand the Scriptures; and, secondly, a denial of the power of the Almighty. Jesus answers them by quoting from the Book of Moses (Exodus 3 verses 15). If those words are true 500 years after Abraham's death that Yahweh IS Abraham's God, then Abraham's future is assured. The logic is irrefutable since the Scriptures only speak of one path to immortality i.e. through resurrection and subsequently glorification. Our hope is that in the kingdom we will be as the angels are now. Jesus then poses to them a question about Psalm 110 - "If Messiah is David's son, then why does David call him 'My Lord'?" The obvious answer being that not only is Christ David's son, but more importantly he is also the Son of God

1 Chronicles 9 records the genealogies of the returned exiles and repeats Saul's genealogy. The returning exiles is a catalogue of the faithful who had endured the 70 years in Babylon and had come back to Judah and Jerusalem with a strong desire to be Yahweh's faithful remnant who would never allow God's people to be ensnared by idolatry. These returned exiles would have included many children of faithful Jews who had been educated in the hope of finding themselves among those who returned to establish Judah and Jerusalem once more. In Ezekiel 22 we have a description of the defilement of the land through blood shedding. All that mattered to Judah's inhabitants at that time was getting gain and it mattered not how many people were trampled and slaughtered because of their covetousness. The LORD God laments that there was not a single individual who would stand in the breach for Yahweh's righteousness. Luke 19 records the story of tiny Zacchaeus who had climbed the mulberry tree to catch sight of Jesus, who was to pass by among the crowd. The Lord, who was always able to read people's minds, stopped underneath the tree where the tax gatherer was. Jesus says, "Today I must dine at your house". In a statement of true repentance Zacchaeus indicates how he would pay recompense to any who he may have defrauded. Zacchaeus uses the language of the trespass offering. A great feast was hastily organised by the collector of excise. Jesus dines with him and a number of other publicans. There is a play on words throughout this chapter centring around the word "seek". Zacchaeus sought to see Jesus and instead Jesus saw Zacchaeus. Jesus had at last personally called Zacchaeus - who had already changed his ways. So much so that Jesus called him "a son of Abraham" who like Zacchaeus refused unwanted gain verses Genesis 14 verses 23. The chapter next follows the parable of the ten Minas which Jesus spoke because of the disciples' false expectation that the kingdom of God would immediately appear. It is based on the well-known historical circumstances surrounding the life of Herod Antipas. The parable is based on the utilisation of abilities distributed by the Lord. The enemies of the kingdom were slaughtered before the king. The Lord Jesus enters Jerusalem triumphantly upon a donkey, which had never been ridden - to the acclaim of the multitude waving palm branches and reciting the words of Psalm 118 and Zechariah 9. Next Jesus pauses as he came over the brow of the hill and caught sight of Jerusalem. Our Lord wept over the city with great tenderness. Christ explains his love and desire for that city. But he says that like the leprous house the stones would have to be torn down one by one. The next time his people would see him would be a time of Jewish conversion and repentance when they will from their hearts then say, "Blessed is he who comes in the name of Yahweh". This will mean blessing for the whole world - at last. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

Thoughts on the Bible Readings September 25th (1 Chronicles 8; Ezekiel 21; Luke 18)

In the end, our purpose in life comes down to one of two things.  Jesus sums it all up in today's reading in Luke.  “No servant can serve two masters … he will be devoted to the one and despise the other”   He ends by bluntly saying, “You cannot serve God and money” [16 v.13]   What is it to “serve” money?This is not the most common Greek word for ‘serve',  in Acts, Luke only uses the word in Ch. 20 v.19 when he quoted Paul's words to the Ephesian elders (and Luke was with him at the time),  he told them, “You yourselves know how I lived …. serving the Lord with all humility and with tears and with trials … I did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable …”   This was serving indeed!In writing to the Romans about issues over the law of Moses Paul says, “but now we are released from the law, having died to that which held us captive, so now we serve not under the old written code but in the new life of the Spirit.” [7 v.6]   But the commitment involved in serving is parallel; it is the same!  Most interesting is the fact that the one place where John used the Greek word in his gospel (8 v.33) it is translated as “enslaved”!Those Jesus sees as serving money he sees as being enslaved to it.  It is the ‘be all' and ‘end all' of their thinking.  Today, it is a matter of the things money can ‘buy,' the pleasure and pride of owning the best of everything, of taking fabulous holidays, etc., with a token gesture toward others to ease their conscience, even fitting in a visit to church.Those who serve God, see how temporary and misleading are the rewards of serving money.   People who decide to serve God have a “bigger mind”, i.e. a bigger vision of thought. That famous chapter of Hebrews 11 selects the example of Moses when, surrounded by wealth as the adopted grandson of Pharaoh, “choosing to be mistreated with the people of God than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin.  He considered the reproach of Christ greater wealth than the treasures of Egypt” [v.25-26]What do we consider to be of greater wealth today?  Less and less would make Christ their choice.  Some, foolishly, try to have it both ways. If we are “lukewarm” –  as with Laodicea, let us remember the message of Jesus to them – read Revelation 3 v.15-16.

1 Chronicles 7 tells of the descendants of Issachar, Benjamin, Naphtali, Manasseh, Ephraim and Asher. The brevity of some of the genealogies is curious i.e. Naphtali in particular. The numerical strengths of some of the tribes are stated but more often than not those details have been omitted. Ezekiel 20 tells of the continued rebellion of Israel (Ephraim) and of Yahweh's judgments on them to purge out the rebels from among them in the wilderness over a forty-year period before bringing a refined and purged nation into the Promised Land. The prophecy of Micah 7 verses 14-15 indicates that the time period will be identical to that under Moses when Israel wandered in the wilderness for forty years after leaving Egypt. And so, this era is called "the Second Exodus" and these returning Israelites will be led by the prophet Elijah, who will bring a purged people through the "wilderness of the peoples"; believed by some to be Europe verses see Malachi 4 verses 5-6. Read carefully and note Elijah's mission is to turn these people's hearts to the fathers of the nation - that is to the faith and thinking of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Elijah aided by the Almighty will purify the remnant and execute their Sovereign's judgement on the persecutors of His beloved nation. Zechariah, the prophet, contains much of the details of this time. Luke 17 commences with a woe upon any who would be a cause of serious stumbling to Jesus' disciples. This follows Jesus' comments in verses 1-6 on the need for forgiveness which brought the response from the twelve verses ""Lord to increase their faith". Yet that faith, like the mustard and mulberry seeds, may be tiny but immensely powerful. We are told that when we have done all, we are still unprofitable slaves. We have but done what was our duty. Jesus cleansed ten lepers, yet only one returned with thanksgiving - and he a Samaritan (presumably the other nine were Jews). When questioned about the kingdom Jesus pointed out that the rulers were looking for outward, observable signs; but they had failed to recognise the most visible and evident sign of all - Jesus the King in their midst. He told them to be ready to go to the kingdom and not be caught up with preoccupation with food and drink and multiple marriages - as in the time of Noah. The same warnings applied to Lot's time with the additional problems of involvement with the absorbing commerce of that time. Some will be ready and waiting. Sadly, others will not. Let us be among the ready, rather than have the eagles strip our bones. There was in this prophecy overtones of the coming judgment of AD70 by the Roman eagle. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

Thoughts on the Bible Readings September 23rd (1 Chronicles 6; Ezekiel 19; Luke 16)

A @Christadelphians Video: SummaryThe video discusses the narrative of King Hezekiah's crisis as depicted in Isaiah 38, focusing on his despair over impending death and subsequent recovery. Hezekiah's heartfelt prayer and the resulting divine intervention lead him to compose a psalm, expressing gratitude and a commitment to serve God and his people. The unique writing highlights the themes of sickness, recovery, and the importance of faithfulness in response to God's mercy.Highlights

1 Chronicles 5 returns to Reuben's descendants and restates the reason why his descendants' genealogy had been displaced to follow Simeon's descendants. Then the chapter follows with the descendants of Gad and their warlike campaigns against the Hagarites. Lastly the record speaks of the descendants of the half tribe of Gad who lived east of the Jordan, until the Assyrian captivity. Ezekiel 18 records a profound truth we are all souls - that is breathing creatures as the Hebrew word means. We all are because of sin rightly related to death - verses 4 and 20 (compare Romans 6 verses 23). The nation of Judah complains of being treated inconsistently at the hands of the Almighty; but oh, how wrong they were! God treats true repentance with absolute forgiveness; but those who turn their back on their Sovereign would be recompensed accordingly. The proverb - 'the fathers ate the sour grape and the children's teeth were set on edge' that was prevalent throughout the kingdom of Judah was a false proverb. Our God deals equitably with each person according to his, or her, own doings. The case study evident in this chapter of the three generations is clearly speaking of Ezekiel's contemporaries Manasseh, Hezekiah and Amon. Luke 15 records the three parables of the lost - sheep, coin and son. "All we like sheep have gone astray" (Isaiah 53) but hopefully we have been recovered by our chief Shepherd 1 Peter 5. However, how poor it was that the coin was lost in the house of believers. Was it lost because of an oversight, or, even worse, because of a lack of care due to the preoccupation of those self-interested occupants of the ecclesial house? God only knows! But like in the parable of the lost sheep there is great joy in heaven and on earth in the recovery of the coin. Finally, we are told the parable of the Prodigal (or wasteful) son. The wasteful son through hardship brought on by his own lack of understanding of the great benefits that come to all who are blessed to be in our Father's house, as well as the Prodigal son's own greed. In his hardship that son has time to reflect on the love of the father (Father) and to find opportunity to return to the household. The father was anxiously waiting for any news of his son's return and runs to meet his lost son and receives him with great feasting and rejoicing. The elder son symbolises the self-righteous Pharisees who could feel no joy when those who they contemptuously call sinners joyfully embrace the father's graciousness. Let us read aloud verses 31-32. Then pause, ponder and make sure we love our gracious Father and rejoice when His children return to the fold. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

1 Chronicles 4 records the descendants of Judah. One of the notable descendants was Jabez, whose prayer to God and subsequent blessing is told in verses 9-10. What we learn is that Yahweh is ever attentive to the pleas of His children both small and great. We know nothing about Jabez except for his prayer seeking for the Almighty to bless and prosper him. Next the record tells of Simeon's descendants - perhaps we would have expected those of Reuben. But Reuben lost the position of firstborn through a disgraceful act (Genesis 49 verses 3-4). Ezekiel 17 records the parable of the two eagles. The eagles were those kings of Judah who were promoted to prominence by the king of Babylon. But the eagles did not maintain faith with Nebuchadnezzar but broke the covenant which they had made with the Babylonian monarch. Those kings rebelled and were savagely dealt with by the king of Babylon. Our God expects His children to be truthful at all times verses Matthew 5 verses 33-37; Zechariah 8 verses 16-17; Revelation 22 verses 14-15. Yahweh will exalt the lowly and abase the lofty verses James 4 verses 7-10; 1 Peter 5 verses 5-6. In Luke 13 the enemies of the Lord maliciously attack him by drawing his attention to the Galileans, who Pilate had slaughtered as they were sacrificing in Jerusalem. Jesus tells his audience of Judeans of a recent event where a wall in Siloam - Jerusalem's backyard - fell on many Judeans. Did it happen because they were bad sinners? No, on both counts - but both tragedies provided opportunities for reflection and repentance, as any report of suffering does for us today. This is followed in chapter 13 by the parable of the barren fig tree which represents Israel's failure to bring forth fruit to God. Jesus next, on the Sabbath day heals a woman with an unclean spirit. The parables of the mustard seed and the leaven come next in the record. Then the record speaks of the parable of the narrow door, through which every disciple must strive to enter. Our Lord Jesus Christ laments over Jerusalem - to be torn down stone by stone as the leprous house. He will be welcomed in the Kingdom, when they would say, "Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord" (Psalm 118 verses 26). Chapter 14 of Luke begins with Jesus healing a man on the Sabbath day. That man had clearly been planted as a test for Jesus. Would he heal on the Sabbath day? The Lord was invited to speak at a dinner for Pharisees and Jesus gives advice in the parable of the wedding feast. Then came another parable about the great banquet to which each invited class found excuses not to attend. These people who were called by the gospel to come to the wedding feast of the Son of God all adjudged themselves unworthy of eternal life in the kingdom. As a result of their rejection, we have graciously been offered a place. Two parables follow which tell us that as disciples of Jesus we must always count the cost of discipleship and wholeheartedly pursue that goal. Every disciple of our Lord must accept the peace that our Sovereign offers to us through the emissaries of the gospel and then make peace with Him verses Ephesians 2 verses 11-22. The chapter concludes with the need for zest and salt among our Master's disciples. Salt was an essential ingredient of every sacrifice and spoke of keeping covenant with the Almighty. And so, it is a vital component of the disciple's faithful walk before his/her Sovereign leading onto His gracious bestowing of eternal life on His saints. Salt speaks of sincerity in Christ's disciples as we are told in Colossians 4 verses 6. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

We live in a world in which people more than ever focus on physical possessions and experiences, they inter-act between themselves in all that they and others experience but, says Jesus, these are not the things that matter.We will read in Luke's gospel tomorrow – his comment that, “one's life does not consist in the abundance of(our) possessions” [12 v.15]   Today's chapter (11) contains quite a number of sayings by Jesus which challenge our understanding; one is a parable (v.24-26) about an “unclean spirit” which, when it has “gone out of a person, it passes through waterless places seeking rest, and finding none it says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.' And when it comes, it finds the house swept and put in order.  Then it goes and brings seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they enter and dwell there.”   Then Jesus gives the lesson the parable is teaching, he says “and the last state of that person is worse than the first”So Jesus is making a point about the human state of mind – what “possesses” the mind – the need to get rid of bad attitudes. In Luke ch. 9 we read the comment of Jesus' disciples James and John (aptly named ‘sons of thunder – Mark 3 v.17) who, when a Samaritan village did not provide for them, said “Lord, do you want us to tell fire to come down from heaven and consume them? But he (Jesus) turned and rebuked them, you do not know what manner of spirit you are of..” [v,52-55]  At the beginning of the chapter we read how Jesus had sent out “the twelve and gave them power …”  But now, in this situation, their spirit, that is, their attitude of mind, was wrong.So the lesson of the parable is that in getting rid of bad ways of thinking it is essential we put good ways of thinking in their place and not leave “the house” of our mind empty. Now back in today's chapter, the next verse (27) contains a very significant point. “As he said these things, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him. ‘Blessed is the womb that bore you, and the breasts at which you nursed!'This shows the woman's mind was focussed on physical things- but there was no lasting value in that!  We can see in history the meaningless worship of the Virgin Mary for which God's word gives no warrant at all – she is dead and buried and awaits the resurrection like all other worthies who have served the Almighty; as we read in Hebrews of those who do God's will, “These all died in faith, not have received the things promised, but having seen than and greeted them from afar …” [11 v.13]Finally, notice how Jesus responded to the woman who made this comment!  His answer is most significant!  He said, “blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”    And, wonderfully, we can read it whenever we want to!   But maybe we have a “spirit” in our house that hinders this?  Let us be blessed through the word of God and “keep” in our house what we read so that our minds are dominated by a right spirit. .

1 Chronicles 3 records the sons of David and their genealogy through Solomon to Zerubbabel the Governor under the returned exiles from Babylon around 537 BC. Jeconiah was a descendant of king Solomon David's son. But that man was disinherited by the LORD, who said of Jeconiah verses "write this man childless ... no son of his will prosper, nor sit on David's throne verses Jeremiah 22 verses 24-30. The two branches of David's family came together in Zerubbabel by way of a Levirate marriage. Matthew 1 records Jesus' legal right to the throne through Joseph (the guardian of our Lord) as recorded there. Whereas Luke 3 records Mary's genealogy and therefore that our Lord Jesus Christ's actual ancestral line through Nathan David's son. In Ezekiel 16 we have a description of Israel Yahweh's faithless wife. Her descent is said, spiritually, to be from Amorite stock - the earliest of the Canaanitish nations (meaning "great of mouth") and the Amorites were of giant stature as Deuteronomy tells us. Israel's father is said to be a Hittite from the powerful kingdom of the Hathi originally in Turkey and among the mightiest empires of that time - rivalling Egypt. Yahweh Israel's Sovereign Lord had pity on His people and took her unto Himself as His wife in love. How did Israel repay her God's loving kindness; only by scorning Him and prostituting herself without payment. God would judge her as the profligate covenant breaker that she was. But her younger sister, Judah, behaved no better. The Almighty describes them as being of the same sisterhood as Sodom, whose abominable lewdness was legendary. Nonetheless the time would come when the repentant daughters would again be covenanted by the everlasting kindness of Yahweh in the Kingdom of His Son the Lord Jesus Christ. In Luke 12 the Lord counsels regarding the destructive teachings of the Pharisees. Our Lord Jesus says to his followers to have no fear when they are tried and killed by the religious authorities. This is because our Father has power over everything - including life and death. When giving testimony before rulers believers would be aided in their witness. In the parable in this chapter of the rich fool (based on the life of Nabal in 1 Samuel 25) our Lord refuses to arbitrate in a property dispute between two brothers. Instead, Jesus turns the opportunity into a discussion about the dangers of covetousness and the need to be rich in loving service to God at all times. Christ urges the disciples to be free from anxiety. Look at nature and the Almighty's abundantly providing out of His richness. Disciples need, as wise and faithful servants, to be in a state of continual readiness for their Lord's coming. A constant challenge for disciples is that often times family opposition will be the result of a person's acceptance of Christ. As disciples we must be alert to the era in which we live. Our Master is standing at the doorpost of our hearts and knocking Revelation 3 verses 20-21. Finally, if believers find themselves in a dispute, they need to quickly reach agreement with their adversaries, or the results may be much worse. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

The scriptures make it plain that the condition of our hearts matters most of all.  Jesus gave a very significant answer to “a lawyer (who) stood up to put him to the test, saying, “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?”  [Luke 10 v.25]     Jesus answered his question with a question; ”What is written in the Law? How do you read it?  And he answered, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind and your neighbour as yourself”[v.27]Jesus commended him for his answer, but we should note that his answer came not from the initial law that Moses gave after being on the mount, but from the final exhortation Moses gave to the people before his death! (see Deut. 6 v5; 10 v.12; 30 v.6)      It is also valuable to note that in the parallel passage about this in Matt 19 v.16-22, we learn that there was one thing the young lawyer loved that undermined his awareness of the need for a correctly focused attitude of “love”    – it was that he had “great possessions” – and he loved those too.So it is the affect that loving God has – on all your other attitudes, the other things you love, that matters. Now this was a contrast to the ‘cold' feelings of the religious men who were jealous of Jesus .  The lament of God recorded by the Psalmist comes to mind, “But my people did not listen to my voice; Israel would not submit to me. So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts …” [81 v.11,12]We noted the fleshly feelings that the LORD told Ezekiel to condemn, for today's chapter (14) starts, “Then certain of the elders of Israel came to me … and the word of the LORD came to me, ‘Son of man, these men have taken their idols into their hearts…. Should I indeed let myself be consulted by them?  … say to them, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD:  Any one of the house of Israel who takes his idols into his heart … and yet comes to the prophet, I the LORD will answer him … that I may lay hold of the hearts of the house of Israel, who are estranged from me through their idols.” [v.1-5]God further says through Ezekiel, “For anyone … who separates himself from me, by taking his idols into his heart … and yet comes to a prophet to consult me … I will set my face against that man (or woman) …” [v.7,8]  We meditated on this – we come to God's word and read it for what reason, in what spirit of mind?  Is not this parallel to a person coming to a prophet in those days – if their heart has the wrong attitude – God will set his face against them – and us..    Finally, taking our thoughts back to the lawyer – Jesus told him he had “answered correctly; this do and you will live” [v.28]  – so let us – “this do” –  and serve our Lord with all our heart.

The Chronicle's account does not begin with the genealogy of Saul, the nation's first earthly king, as we might have expected, since he was disgraced and taken away by God in Yahweh's anger. It rather begins with the Almighty's chosen king - the man after His own heart. It tells us of David's thirteen wives and seventeen sons and the circumstances that brought one of David's younger sons, Solomon, to succeed him on the throne. It also outlines the genealogies of some of his prominent wise counsellors and of David's administration. In Ezekiel 15 we find a short but powerful parable about the vine that tells us that the wood from the is useless for making anything. The vine is also very poor in its use for kindling heat. The vine has but one use; to produce fruit and the kingdom of Judah had shown that they were useless in this respect. The vine is an oft used symbol of God's people, Israel - Isaiah 5; Psalm 80 etc. The same lessons must be applied to spiritual Israel - those who have embraced the gospel message verses Matthew 21 verses 43. We come across it in each of the four gospel accounts. The greatest lesson on our need for fruitfulness comes from the Master teacher verses John 15 verses 1-11. We can only produce fruit by abiding within the Vine of our Father's planting i.e. of ourselves we can produce fruit, but in our Lord Jesus Christ we can and will by his grace do. In Luke 11 we start with a record of, what is termed, the Lord's Prayer. It is a model prayer, not a mantra to be repeated without thought. It commences with an acknowledgement of the Father's awe-inspiring status. Then follows petitions for the Almighty's will to be fulfilled on earth, as it is in heaven. The kingdom will come when Messiah returns in glory. Lastly are personal petitions for forgiveness and for food. The prayer closed with an acclaiming of the praise, greatness and glory of our Sovereign. Then follows teaching about generosity among friends and our need to be seekers, askers and knockers on doors. Our Father is generous and gives only benefits to His children. Upon curing a deaf-mute Jesus is accused of doing it by a demon power Beel-zebul - the Lord of the dung heap. This was equivalent to blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. Jesus tells his enemies that if he was casting out diseases by a demonic power then Jesus would be a destroyer of the kingdom of the enemy who had "inflicted" those who suffered. No, just as the magicians of Egypt at the time of Moses were forced to acknowledge - "this is the finger of God". A parable of the need to fill our cleansed and empty house with good things after the sweeping out of evil is next mentioned in the chapter. The Lord says that happiness lies in hearing and keeping the Word of God. Then follows Christ's telling the hearers of the sign of the prophet Jonah. There is more to this sign than would first seem apparent verses 1) Jonah from Gath-Hepher which is in Galilee where our Lord's ministry thrived verses see John 7 verses 52; 2) Jonah means 'dove' the evident sign at Jesus' baptism; 3) the overwhelming majority of Jesus' disciples were Galilean as Isaiah 9 verses 1-7 predicted; 4) Jonah spent three nights in the belly of hell i.e. inside the belly of the great fish before being symbolically resurrected. The chapter then instructs us to be single minded seekers. The record in this chapter concludes with the pronouncing of woes upon the Pharisees and the Lawyers because of their hypocrisy. Rather than having the effect of curtailing them in their behaviour these evil men sought even more to provoke our Lord.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

One of the puzzling things in Scripture for many people are the references to the death of “souls.”  We have this in our Ezekiel reading today (ch.13) where the prophet writes, “The word of the LORD came to me” to speak against “those who prophesy from their own minds” [v.1,2].     They are challenged by the LORD, “Will you hunt down souls belonging to my people and keep your own souls alive.  You have profaned me … putting to death souls  who should not die and keeping alive souls who should not live, by your lying to people, who listen to lies.” [v.18,19]Those who have the idea that “soul” means some inner part of us that lives on somewhere (up there or down there!) after the body dies misunderstand God's word; long ago the thinking of non-Christians was adopted by some – it arose in R.C. theology long after the time of Christ..  When we come to ch. 18 we will see God's blunt statement, “the soul who sins shall die” [v.4 and again v.18]  A ‘soul' is not part of a person, it is the person, the phrase ‘immortal soul' is not to be found anywhere in the BibleOur chapter in Luke's gospel today (9) helps us to reach a true understanding if we have any doubts on this.  Jesus “called the twelve …and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal” [v.2] Later “the crowds …. followed him and he spoke to them of the kingdom of God and cured those who had need of healing” [v.11].Jesus is “rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes” [v,21] and eventually killed at their instigation.  They had their minds set on their position and prestige in this life!  But Jesus asked,  “what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses of forfeits himself?  For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father  and the holy angels,” [v.25,26]  That will be the time of reward or punishment, then will be the resurrection.  The true hope of life after death will become very clear when we come to ch. 20 v.35,36.The chapter ends with Jesus responding to someone who said, “I will follow you where-ever you go” [v.57]  But it is clear from the answer of Jesus that following him has to mean you give priority to the work of Jesus – the chapter ends by Jesus saying, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.” Will you be fit for the kingdom of God?     Nowhere does it say anything about being fit for a place in heaven!  In Matthew's gospel the phrase “kingdom of heaven” occurs – that is, a heavenly kingdom – on earth.  Remember the words in ‘The Lord's prayer'  “your Kingdom come, your will be done on earth.” [Matt 6 v.10]  When you use the Lord's prayer in your prayers be conscious of what you are praying about.

The books of Chronicles were believed to have been written by Ezra to outline what was needing to be done by the returning exiles to be Yahweh's faithful people. Chapter 1 of 1 Chronicles records the genealogy of Adam through to Abraham and his descendants. The chapter concludes with the twelve dukedoms of Esau. These were in force for hundreds of years before the monarchy in Israel. Chronicles focuses on the positive rulers who after difficult years sought to spiritually revive the kingdom of Judah. We saw in the two books of Kings that all of the rulers of the northern kingdom of Israel were wicked. Judah's fortunes fluctuated with the occasional great reformer, although the general direction of thekingdom was a downward spiral. By heeding the lessons learned from both books of Kings and from both books of Chronicles hopefully the returning exiles would return from idolatry to a pure and God-fearing community. History tells us that those who returned from the Babylonian captivity never again turned to idolatry. Ezekiel 14 tells us of the idolatry of Judah. God would not spare His judgments on Jerusalem. What an incredible state of affairs it was when three of the greatest intercessors for the nation to that point in history could not meditate on behalf of the kingdom - Noah, Job and Daniel. Though these three men, had the LORD raised them up at that time, should seek pardon for the nation from the Almighty it would have been in vain. Judah's Sovereign would send four disastrous acts of judgment on Jerusalem - sword, famine, wild beasts and pestilence. Luke 10 says that the Lord Jesus appoints seventy emissaries to spread the gospel message. These men were sent out two by two so as to support each other. Although they carry the message only within the confines of the land it was symbolic of the Gospel being taken to all the nations from Israel (compare Genesis 10; and Deuteronomy 32 verses 8). Once again, these ambassadors were to take the minimum of provisions and to rely on faithful help. Any person scorning them would bare their condemnation. Three such Galilean cities are named and their inexcusable behaviour catalogued. The seventy returned to Jesus with triumphant tales. Christ indicates that their reports were a token of the triumph of Christ's kingdom over those of this world (compare with Revelation 11 verses 15). The Lord then reveals that the Father's will can only be understood by those receiving the kingdom message with a child-like trust. Let us take great heed to that lesson. The parable of the Good Samaritan, which is unique in Luke, portrays the perils and pitiful attitudes of those who should have understood their role among God's people. Instead, it is the Samaritan, whose care was evident for the man who had fallen among thieves. Jesus is the Samaritan of the parable, and he will recompense those who have taken care of the Father's people. The oil and wine was the healing balm of the Gospel message. The chapter concludes with a disagreement between Martha and Mary about what is most necessary. Both the roles of these two sisters are essential, but the most important of all is to sit at our Lord's feet and to learn from Jesus.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

What exactly this mumbo jumbo involved is hard to envision, but Isaiah also counsels against such wizardry - see Isaiah 8 verses 19-20. Luke 9 tells us of the commissioning of "the twelve" who were sent to Israel's lost sheep. These Apostles were seemingly unprepared for such a task but took the Gospel forth in faith - note the similarity in the opening verses of Luke chapters 8 and 9 (8 verses 1 compare with 9 verses 1-2). The record tells us of Herod's perplexity on hearing the report of Jesus' ministry. Herod hearing of the miracles being done by Jesus and he becomes frightened believing that these miracles might have been done by John the Baptist risen from the dead. The chapter tells us of the feeding of the 5,000 which is followed by the record of Jesus' prayer in solitude. We are told that this prayer of our Lord follows Peter's confession that "Jesus was the Christ of God". Jesus foretells his sufferings, crucifixion and resurrection. The disciples are exhorted that it is imperative to take up one's stake (Greek 'stauros') and follow Christ. The remaining segments of the chapter centre on Elijah. The transfiguration is recorded in verses 28-36 - where Moses, representing the Law; and Elijah the Prophets - are seen with our Lord in glory. The Father clearly showing and declaring the surpassing, excellent glory of His Son. Peter comments on the wonderful lessons learned then verses 2 Peter 1 verses 16-21. Read these aloud and ponder their significance for your belief in the inspired Word of God. A paralytic boy is cured by the Lord, when the 9 Apostles who had not gone into the Mount were frustrated by their inability to heal the boy. Once more Jesus tells them of his coming suffering, which message, yet again, fell on deaf ears. Sadly, the Apostles were preoccupied with their feelings of self-importance. Incredibly those who saw the events of the transfiguration should have seen that their Lord alone was great and that they were merely the servants of the coming King. The twelve rebuke a man who is performing miracles in the name of Jesus Christ. Their chastising was because that man was not of their company. Jesus declared - that they who are not against us must be for us. Jesus was next turned away from a Samaritan village since he was clearly intent on going to Jerusalem. James and John, rightly given the appellation "sons of thunder", sought to bring fire upon that village as Elijah had done in 2 Kings 1. Jesus rebukes his Apostles and alludes to the saving mission of the 'whisper of a voice' - found in Elisha's mission. The chapter concludes with three would be disciples being challenged by Christ Jesus to count the cost of following him. The three examples are verses 1) who wanted to make discipleship a second priority. 2) the next would follow when family responsibility had passed - this would always be a problem and left with those not willing to embrace the challenges of following Christ; and, 3) the third had business matters which required attention - Jesus tells that man needs to learn the lesson of which is seen in Elisha's calling 1 Kings 19 verses 19-21.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

A @Christadelphians Video: **

At the age of 26 Josiah began to utilise the faithful craftsmen to repair the temple. Hilkiah the High Priest finds the Book of the Law (possibly the very one written by Moses about eight and a half centuries earlier). That precious book is handed to Shaphan the scribe to take it to king Josiah. Shaphan reads it before the king who rends his clothes. Josiah knows how greatly Judah has sinned against their God. Josiah sends to Huldah the prophetess, who tells them that judgment is unavoidable, but that it would be postponed until after Josiah's death because of his humility before his Sovereign. 2 Kings 23 records the reforms of Josiah all of which had been declared earlier to Jeroboam 1 by the unnamed prophet who came from Judah. Josiah causes all Judah to listen to and comply with the words of the newly found Book of the Law. The king, Josiah, finds the tomb of that prophet who had foretold these events and leaves his bones to lie undisturbed - this being symbolic of resurrection (Psalm 34 verses 20-22). Josiah keeps a Passover like none throughout the 430 years of history of the two kingdoms - Israel and Judah. Josiah dies in a battle against Pharaoh Neco king of Egypt. God had warmed Josiah not to meddle with Pharaoh Neco. But this was a bad error of judgment from Josiah that led to his tragic and premature death verses referred to in Isaiah 57 verses 1. Eliakim was placed, as a vassal of Neco, on the throne for three months; and Judah is put under tribute. Eliakim is removed and replaced by Jehoiakim. In Ezekiel 12 we have an enacted parable telling of the extremities and sufferings occasioned by the siege. Ezekiel portrays by his actions the outcomes of Jerusalem's siege. A very small remnant of Judah would be saved. Ezekiel shows that the profligate and weak king Zedekiah is to be taken into captivity. The statement was made by the false prophets that it would be a long time before the Almighty would bring such judgment on His people. Not so says Jeremiah who is asked by Yahweh to show the people of Judah the hardships that were to come and the scarcity of food. Luke chapter 8 begins by naming some of the women who accompany our Lord and his Apostles. Among them was Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod's nobleman (consider some of the difficulties this may have occasioned - perhaps very similar to Obadiah, the steward of Ahab, who had fed 100 of Yahweh's prophets during the great drought). The Parable of the Sower is taught, as the basis of understanding all of our Lord's parables. As we have seen it can be called the parable of the soils as the seed sown is the same - it was the response of the 4 soil types that differed. The chapter then records an explanation from Jesus as to why our Lord spoke in parables. It was to reveal the message to the seekers and to confound the self-righteous. The teaching by parables is a fulfilment of Christ's mission and is explained in Psalm 78 verses 1-4 and Isaiah 6 verses 1-13. Then follows the parable of the lamp on the table which outlines the disciple's responsibility to spread the Gospel. Jesus' mother and brothers, being concerned for him, seek to curtail his preaching. They are told to join the supporters rather than those who are slowing down God's work. Next Jesus calms a storm demonstrating that he is indeed the Son of God (see Psalm 107 verses 23-32). The chapter then says that he heals the man called Legion. Whose curing is proved by the destruction of the pigs. The Jews should not have been breeding these as the Law of Moses forbad it. The record follows with the curing of the woman with the issue of blood for 12 years (note Luke's ironic comments about his fellow doctors). Then Jesus raises the twelve-year-old daughter of Jairus (whose name means 'enlightenment') and presents her alive to her parents. Christ shows that he is indeed the Good Shepherd of John 10 when he said to the child "little lamb arise".

The record tells us that at Hezekiah's death his son Manasseh began to reign, aged 12. His mother's name was Hephzibah, meaning 'my delight is in her'. What joy must those final years of Hezekiah's have been? But sadly, Manasseh's rule was steeped in idolatry and blood shedding. Read the LORD's summary of that bloodthirsty king's rule in verses 11-15. The streets of Jerusalem flowed with blood under this king. History records that the prophet Isaiah fled from this evil man and hid in a hollow tree. The king gave orders to saw the prophet in half (cp Hebrews 11 verses 37). However, despite 55 years of evil at Manasseh's end God forgave him because he repented and that final turning to God saw him being taken from prison to Jerusalem - see 2 Chronicles 13 verses 10-13. Ezekiel explains why in chapter 18 verses 4-23 read and ponder. But the people of Judah, having revelled in idolatry for so long, could not change their behaviours. Manasseh's son Amon succeeds him ruling for two years before being slain by the king's own servants. In Ezekiel 11 judgment is pronounced upon Judah's wicked counsellors who mistakenly saw themselves as untouchable. The prophet Ezekiel counsels Judah to settle in Babylon for the 70 years. The length of the exile that Jeremiah had prophesied. But the arrogant rulers in Judah said that no destruction could ever come to them. It was essential to totally overthrow these wicked people and to make a new start with the remnant, who were to be the returning exiles. Luke 7 begins with the healing of a faithful and loved Roman Centurion's servant. The Centurion had built a synagogue for the Jewish people - most likely in Capernaum. As a man in command and also under the authority of Rome he saw our Lord Jesus Christ as the emissary of God. Jesus announces that the Centurion's faith exceeded any faith that could be found in Israel. This Centurion was truly the seed, and heir of Abraham's kingdom (Romans 4 verses 13; Genesis 12 verses 3). In the town of Nain Jesus raises a widow's son. In this and many like incidents our Lord Jesus was learning how painful it would be for his Father to see His only begotten Son die. Messengers are sent to our Lord Jesus Christ from a disconsolate John the Baptist, who was languishing in Herod's prison at Machaerus. Jesus immediately performs many miracles before John's messengers and refers them to Isaiah 61. The Lord then remonstrates with the crowd on their fickleness - Jesus and John are both the Father's wise children. Not a greater man than John the Baptist had ever been born of a woman, except the Messiah himself. The chapter next says that a sinful woman, who comes into the house of Simon the Pharisee, anoints Jesus' feet in love - and because of her great love she is forgiven greatly for her sins. Luke is telling us in this chapter of three confrontations our Lord had with the Pharisees occurring in the house of a Pharisee - Luke 7; 11; 14. Simon the Pharisee and those with him are instructed by Christ on the basis of divine forgiveness i.e. love. Let us pause, ponder and learn this. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

A @Christadelphians Video: SummaryIn this study, the focus is on King Hezekiah's severe illness during the Assyrian invasion. Despite his faith in God's promise of protection, Hezekiah faces a life-threatening sickness, leading to a crisis of faith. The prophet Isaiah informs him that he must prepare for death, prompting Hezekiah to pray earnestly for remembrance and healing. God responds to Hezekiah's sincere prayer by extending his life by 15 years and providing a miraculous sign through the reversal of a shadow, symbolising both time and divine favour.Highlights