Christadelphians Talk

Today's readings.. (Leviticus 26), (Psalm 137-139), (Luke 9)Do you, do I, want God to really “know my heart”? The concluding words of David's Psalm 139 are some of the most challenging in Scripture.  It seems obvious that David wrote it when he had formed a most intimate relationship with God, he declares, “How precious to me are your thoughts O God!  How vast is the sum of them!  If I would count them, they are more than the sand.  I awake, and I am still with you.” [v.17,18]David's meditations in this Psalm are most meaningful, he had a sense of really being “with God” and God, with him.  How intensely personal is his closing appeal to the Almighty, “Search me, O God, and know my heart!  Try me and know my thoughts!  And see if there is any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!”   But that leading by God comes at a price – the surrender of self, of our human inclinations – to God's leading. David surely knew what Moses wrote at God's direction, we read it today in Leviticus ch. 26.  The first 13 verses list all the blessings to come on the nation if they will truly serve their God who has delivered them from slavery in Egypt. “I will make my dwelling among you,” says God, “I will walk among you and will be your God, and you shall be my people.” [v.11,12]  David was leading the people to do this – he would have fallen asleep in death  convinced that his son Solomon would complete what he had begun in making the nation, God's people.  His Psalm explains a vital underlying factor in serving God, that, observing God's laws, must be followed by an attitude of heart and mind that achieves a personal relationship with God.       Sadly, the rest of Leviticus 26, which details the actions of God when there is a failure to obey his laws, came terribly true for most who journeyed to the promised land under Moses.. Our awareness – of the light and darkness of the paths of life – is vital for our eternal health: they are excellently summed up in the words of Jesus in the last verse of our Luke (ch.9) reading.  “No one who puts his hand to the plough and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.”  Our innermost thoughts as we prayerfully read God's word each day will keep us looking forward.

A @Christadelphians Video: Inspiring and thought-provoking! Discover how modern archaeology consistently affirms the historical reliability of the Bible in this insightful expositional study. We explore outstanding discoveries that have turned skepticism into wonder, revealing the profound accuracy of Scripture down to the smallest detail. This presentation builds a powerful, evidence-based confidence that the Bible is not myth, but a truthful record—strengthening our trust in its greater spiritual promises.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction: The Unfolding Evidence of Archaeology01:21 - The Purpose of Archaeology & Building Trust in Scripture02:34 - The Hittites: A "Lost" Empire Rediscovered

Today's readings.. (Leviticus 25), (Psalm 135,136), (Luke 8)The great majority, until the last generation or two, have had contact with Jesus Christ in the sense that they have heard and read about him, although sometimes in a distorted sense.  Sadly today there is less and less contact with him, with 7 billion + people in the world how few know anything about his teaching, we conclude an awareness of God and his Son now “has gone out to all the earth” [Rom.10 v.18] as was predicted (Matt. 24 v14)Our thoughts flowed along these lines as we read Luke's account of the healing of a woman who had been suffering for 12 years with a “discharge of blood” [ch.8 v.43] and had spent all her money in trying to be healed.  She came in “the crowds” that “were surrounding him”, how keen they were to hear him, a contrast to today. This woman came “in the crowds” and had a remarkable notion that it would be good to at least touch him.  When “Jesus said, ‘Who was it that touched me?'”      Peter responds, “Master, the crowds surround you and are pressing in on you”  Jesus responded, “Someone touched me, for I perceive that power has gone out from me.” [v.46]It is how you “touch” Jesus that makes all the difference; equally, we conclude, it is how you reach out with your mind, the urgency of your need to know and have a relationship with him, that makes all the difference in your life.  It is more, much more, than gaining an intellectual understanding.  It is vital to reach out and “touch” Jesus with a real sense of how vital it is to do this. Those who do this establish an ongoing relationship that will lead to an eternal relationship.  Such become one of “his people” – they take on “his name” and the verses in the Psalm we read today become fully meaningful and true for them. “Your name O LORD, endures forever , your renown, O LORD, throughout all ages.  For the LORD will vindicate his people and have compassion on his servants.” [Psa. 135 v.13,14] Let us take on his name, and live up to the privilege and responsibility of bearing his name, then when Jesus returns our lives will be vindicated (i.e. assessed as righteous) and we will “Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever”

Today's readings.. (Leviticus 24), (Psalm 131-134), (Luke 7)“Remember O LORD in David's favour, all the hardships he endured, how he swore to the LORD and vowed … “ [Psalm 132 v.1-2]  The prayer and petition in that Psalm, one of the four we read today has a very significant lesson for us.  What particular thing did David vow to do that he should be favourably remembered for?   Was it some great thing? He did many great things starting with the killing of Goliath, not counting the killing of the wild animals that sought to attack the sheep he was caring for.   But his vow is not something that human nature sees as great – but today's Psalm is a plea about it!  It is a particular vow that he asks, should be counted in his favour!  Is it a vow we should consider making?He vowed “I will not enter my house or get into my bed, I will not give sleep to my eyes or slumber to my eyelids, until I find a place for the LORD, a dwelling place for the Mighty One of Jacob” [v.3-5]David cannot mean he is going to build a literal temple for the Almighty. Nor can he mean the Tabernacle, for the LORD had had a dwelling place there for centuries.   The answer is to be found in Isaiah Ch. 57, as well as other places.  There we read “For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and humble spirit” [v.15]So the dwelling place that David vowed to find for the LORD was in his own heart. To do that he had to mentally prostrate himself before the Lord!  How to do that?  We suggest a factor in this is getting yourself to imagine ….the unimaginable!  But we have to try to comprehend God's immeasurable greatness and how he desires to dwell in the hearts of the humble.Remember how Jesus said, “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him” [John 14 v.23]  Our heart becomes a Temple if we really carry out the first commandment to the full!  At the end of each day, we need to take stock, and repair any damage or make good any loss the events of the day has brought to the Father's spiritual temple in our heart. 

A @Christadelphians Video: [Inspiring] Have you ever wondered why there are so many different English versions of the Bible? Is it simply a matter of preference, or is there something more profound at work? In this thought-provoking and insightful exposition, we begin a new series exploring the wonderful, yet complex, world of Bible translation. This opening episode tackles the fundamental challenge: we often approach Scripture like a mathematical equation, seeking a single, definitive answer. However, language is far more nuanced and beautiful than that.Join us as we reveal why translation is so complicated and why this reality should inspire humility and a deeper appreciation for God's Word. We'll look at the Hebrew of Genesis 1:1, uncovering hidden details about "the heavens" and the significance of "a beginning." We'll also explore how comparing different translations can unlock powerful connections, like the revealing link between King Saul and the "pomegranate" in 1 Samuel. This is an outstanding foundation for anyone wanting to understand their Bible on a deeper level.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction: Why So Many Versions?01:55 - The Core Message: Translation is Complicated04:29 - The Big Idea: Math vs. Language08:07 - Why "I Have Hunger" Doesn't Work10:40 - Genesis 1:1: A Case Study in Complexity15:46 - The Mystery of the "Two Heavens"17:09 - "In a Beginning": The Grammar of Genesis 124:51 - A Translation is a Commentary26:51 - Wisdom from the King James Translators30:45 - The Advantage of Multiple Translations: King Saul's Pomegranate35:25 - Looking Ahead: Translation Philosophy36:53 - Conclusion**Bible Verses:**

A @Christadelphians Video: A @Christadelphians Video: This Audio Book by Harry Tennant (read by Paul Cresswell) invites us to pursue a path through the Word of God whilst examining the faith of a Christadelphian.It deals freely and in detail with the things which Christadelphians believe and do, and what their organisation and way of life are like.The community has borne the name Christadelphian since the latter half of the 19th century. The name is intended to cover three words: 'Brethren in Christ'. Christadelphians are to be found in countries all over the world. They are bound together by a common faith in the gospel preached by Jesus Christ and his apostles in the first century.It was this faith and its appeal to men and women from all walks of life which brought the community into existence.This series will clearly show how the Christadelphian faith rests squarely and solely on the Bible as the Word of God.And the true Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God - Romans 10:17.**[Revealing] Discover the foundational beliefs of the Christadelphians in this outstanding and insightful Bible talk by Harry Tennant. Based on his thought-provoking book, this expositional presentation provides a clear, Scripture-based guide to what Christadelphians believe and preach. Explore the coherent Biblical hope centered on God's purpose from creation to the coming Kingdom. A wonderful resource for sincere seekers of truth.**[Revealing] A wonderful and insightful expositional study on the profound biblical truth about death. In this thought-provoking presentation, we examine Scripture's clear teaching on mortality, the nature of the soul, and the outstanding hope of resurrection through Christ.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction: Death - Friend or Foe?00:55 - The Meeting of Love and Death in Christ02:17 - The Universal Question About Our Death03:11 - Life Comes From God04:23 - The Consequence of Sin: Returning to Dust06:27 - The State of the Dead: Silence and Forgetfulness09:02 - Condemnation of False Teachings10:46 - The Hope of Resurrection vs. Immortality of the Soul12:42 - What the Bible Says About Immortality14:43 - The Biblical Nature of the Soul18:07 - Death: The Last Enemy20:49 - The Progression of Salvation22:31 - The Glorious Transformation to Come24:17 - Conclusion and Call to Action**Bible Verse Category:**

Today's readings.. (Leviticus 23), (Psalm 128-130), (Luke 6) Our Psalms and Luke readings today link together in encouraging us to think and live positively so we can more effectively counteract a world that buffets us more than ever with false values.  There are times when these greatly affect us and they threaten to be overwhelming.      These Psalms provide us with encouragement for the times when the ways of the world around us particularly buffet us and we start to be drawn into its' ways.. Psalm 130 is an outstanding example: “Out of the depths I cry to you O LORD … be attentive to the voice of my pleas for mercy!  If you, O LORD, should mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand?  But with you there is forgiveness, that you may be feared.”  [v.1-4]Then the question arises, what counts as iniquities?  In the days of Moses and ancient Israel the people would look to the 10 commandments; but Jesus, as we read in Luke 6 today describes Christ-like behaviour as being much more than avoiding bad behaviour like stealing and committing adultery. Jesus taught, “But I say unto you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you … “  [v.27,28]  Then Jesus lays down what is often called ‘the golden rule' saying,  “as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.” [v.31]   It has always been the greatest challenge to live as God requires.  David knew this.      Jesus came to spell it out in plain language – and live it – to set us an example.  With gratitude we remember David's words – and see his life as an example, especially for us, if we stumble off the narrow pathway that Jesus described. (Matt. 7 v.14).We therefore need more especially to remember David's words that God is “feared” because with him “there is forgiveness.”  He is not feared because he is an angry God, rather he is feared (‘held in the deepest reverence' it means in this context) – because he is a loving God.  Tomorrow's Psalm 131 is specifically by David. He writes, “O LORD, my heart is not lifted up … I have calmed and quieted my soul like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me.” [v.1,2]     Can we do the same?  Christ is, in one sense, our mother, let us make sure we have a real and growing relationship with him. 

Today's readings.. (Leviticus 22), (Psalm 125-127), (Luke 5)   No one despises an inheritance, they are usually a cause of joy!  But what we inherit is often a challenge too!  A challenge to our wisdom, how to use it wisely.    How many are conscious of our Lord's all seeing eyes and knowledge of all the decisions we make in this – and, of course, all the other decisions we make.  However, receiving an inheritance leads to especially challenging decisions.       One very important situation is clearly alluded to in Psalm 127 which we read this morning yet we may often pass over it without really thinking.  We read, “Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward” [v.3]  A heritage?  Do those who have children see them as an inheritance the Lord has provided?   We should – and in seeing them that way, surely we should make use of the inheritance with the utmost care and wisdom.  But do we?     The Psalmist enlarges on this theme in the next Psalm, “Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children will be like olive shoots around your table.  Behold, thus shall the man be blessed who fears the LORD” [128 v.3,4]         Let's give careful thought to the very first words that God spoke to Adam and Eve about their inheritance?  They still apply. “Be fruitful and multiply and subdue it and have dominion over … Behold I have given you …” [Gen. 1 v.28,29] What blessings surrounded them in the garden, what an inheritance.      The foolishness of humans has often abused God's blessings, they take for granted their “heritage from the LORD.”  In contrast all those who have a real relationship with the one who has provided all, a relationship which is experienced in various ways every day, will value all the aspects of the results that flow from that relationship, it is far more than a case of whether we have children or not.         Next week we will come to the passage in Luke where it says Jesus “rejoiced”!  What did he rejoice over – he was praying to his Father saying, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes Father, for such was your gracious will.” [ch. 10 v.21]  Let us become as “little children” and then we will know how to use our inheritance.

Today's readings.. (Leviticus 21), (Psalm 120-124), (Luke 4)Psalm 121 today begins with a question – and sometimes this is not recognised.   The Psalmist is lifting up his eyes to the hills and asking, “from where does my help come?”   Does it come from the hills, the high places?     The pagan people around and all too often the Jewish people were attracted to do the same, they looked to high places where they felt they would be nearer where their God's dwelt.  When travelling in India one frequently sees hill tops crowned with Hindu temples.The 2nd verse answers the question, stating, “My help comes from the LORD who made heaven and earth.”  That is just as true today!  But what sort of help can seekers expect?  Well this Psalm is the second of 5 short Psalms to be read today which are called ‘A SONG OF ASCENTS'      Among the Jews these, and the ten Psalms which follow, are generally understood to be the songs that were sung as they went up to Jerusalem to worship in the Temple.  In some cases they would be coming from distant lands – remember the man from Ethiopia that Philip was sent by the Spirit to meet?  “he had come to Jerusalem to worship and was returning” [Acts 8 v.27]. Recall Isaiah's vision!  “It shall come to pass in the latter days that the mountain of the house of the LORD shall be established as the highest of the mountains … and many people shall come and say, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD” [Isaiah 2 v.2,3] So what did the pilgrims going up to Jerusalem sing about?  Do these Psalms foreshadow our going up to Jerusalem in the future?  The first one (120) is, “In my distress I cried to the LORD and he answered me.  Deliver me O LORD, from lying lips, from a deceitful tongue” [v.1,2]   This illustrates the kind of help that was sought – and given – to genuine worshippers of God like David. It also shows the frame of mind of those who do not know God that those going up to Jerusalem leave behind!       Psalm 121 ends, “The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and for evermore.” The Lord watches over all the ways in which we travel, if we firmly believe our help comes from the Lord.  The verse will find its complete fulfilment when Jesus returns and the kingdom is established – and what a wonderful atmosphere then as we “go up to the mountain of the LORD.”.

A @Christadelphians Video: [Inspiring] Have you ever wondered why there are so many different English versions of the Bible? Is it simply a matter of preference, or is there something more profound at work? In this thought-provoking and insightful exposition, we begin a new series exploring the wonderful, yet complex, world of Bible translation. This opening episode tackles the fundamental challenge: we often approach Scripture like a mathematical equation, seeking a single, definitive answer. However, language is far more nuanced and beautiful than that.Join us as we reveal why translation is so complicated and why this reality should inspire humility and a deeper appreciation for God's Word. We'll look at the Hebrew of Genesis 1:1, uncovering hidden details about "the heavens" and the significance of "a beginning." We'll also explore how comparing different translations can unlock powerful connections, like the revealing link between King Saul and the "pomegranate" in 1 Samuel. This is an outstanding foundation for anyone wanting to understand their Bible on a deeper level.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction: Why So Many Versions?01:55 - The Core Message: Translation is Complicated04:29 - The Big Idea: Math vs. Language08:07 - Why "I Have Hunger" Doesn't Work10:40 - Genesis 1:1: A Case Study in Complexity15:46 - The Mystery of the "Two Heavens"17:09 - "In a Beginning": The Grammar of Genesis 124:51 - A Translation is a Commentary26:51 - Wisdom from the King James Translators30:45 - The Advantage of Multiple Translations: King Saul's Pomegranate35:25 - Looking Ahead: Translation Philosophy36:53 - Conclusion**Bible Verses:**

A @Christadelphians Video: *[Watchman Report: A High Road to Iran]*In this thought-provoking Watchman Report, we undertake an insightful expositional journey into a remarkable end-times prophecy. We examine Isaiah chapter 19, a passage that reveals a future of unexpected peace and divine blessing in the Middle East after the return of the Lord Jesus Christ.This outstanding prophecy foretells a "highway" linking Egypt, Israel, and Assyria—a corridor of worship and unity. We explore the historical context of these ancient empires and present a compelling case for their modern identities, with a specific focus on how ancient Assyria corresponds with the nation of Iran today. This presentation offers a powerful, Scripture-based perspective on the "new beginning" that awaits the world under the reign of Christ.Join us for this revealing and insightful biblical analysis of current events.*Video Chapters / Timestamps*00:00 - Introduction: A Biblical Perspective on Current News01:15 - The "New Beginning" Prophecies02:57 - Reading Isaiah 19:22-2503:44 - The Historical Fulfillment Question04:39 - God's Complex Relationship with Egypt and Assyria06:55 - Assyria's Role and Modern Identity08:05 - The Latter-Day Fulfillment: A Highway to Iran09:54 - The Prophetic Context of Christ's Kingdom10:43 - The Personal Application: Our Relationship with God12:02 - The Essential Step of Belief and Baptism13:34 - Conclusion and Encouragement*

A @Christadelphians Video: A @Christadelphians Video: This Audio Book by Harry Tennant (read by Paul Cresswell) invites us to pursue a path through the Word of God whilst examining the faith of a Christadelphian.It deals freely and in detail with the things which Christadelphians believe and do, and what their organisation and way of life are like.The community has borne the name Christadelphian since the latter half of the 19th century. The name is intended to cover three words: 'Brethren in Christ'. Christadelphians are to be found in countries all over the world. They are bound together by a common faith in the gospel preached by Jesus Christ and his apostles in the first century.It was this faith and its appeal to men and women from all walks of life which brought the community into existence.This series will clearly show how the Christadelphian faith rests squarely and solely on the Bible as the Word of God.And the true Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God - Romans 10:17.**[Revealing] Discover the foundational beliefs of the Christadelphians in this outstanding and insightful Bible talk by Harry Tennant. Based on his thought-provoking book, this expositional presentation provides a clear, Scripture-based guide to what Christadelphians believe and preach. Explore the coherent Biblical hope centered on God's purpose from creation to the coming Kingdom. A wonderful resource for sincere seekers of truth.**In this thought-provoking presentation, we explore the profound paradox of human nature. Why is mankind capable of both exquisite beauty and sickening repulsiveness? What explains the mixture of good and evil in our world? Join us as we delve into an insightful expositional study of Scripture to uncover the Biblical explanation for man's condition and the outstanding hope offered through God's plan.This exceptional talk traces the origin of man from Genesis, examining our creation in God's image, the test in Eden, the deception by the serpent, and the consequences of sin. We discover how the Bible provides a wonderful framework for understanding human nature and points to a future restoration.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction: The Paradox of Human Nature04:31 - Seeking an Explanation for the Riddle04:54 - The Biblical Foundation: Back to Genesis05:53 - The Purpose & Power of Scripture06:28 - The "Very Good" Creation and Unique Man07:21 - Made in the "Image of God"08:52 - Comparing Man to Angels09:43 - The Fundamental Difference: Man as a "Living Soul"12:45 - Adam in Eden: A State Without Fear of Death13:54 - The Test: God's Commandment in the Garden15:25 - The Enigma of the Serpent in Eden16:42 - Understanding the Serpent's Nature and Role19:35 - The Serpent's Deceptive Proposition to Eve22:32 - The Fall: Deception, Disobedience, and Sin23:58 - The Consequences: Shame, Fear, and Separation from God24:56 - God's Judgment and the Curse26:08 - The First Promise of Hope: Genesis 3:1527:28 - Conclusion: The Entry of Toil and Death**Bible Verses Referenced:**

Today's readings.. (Leviticus 20), (Psalm 19:129-176), (Luke 3)What an incredible impact the preaching of John the Baptist had!  We do not realize this at first – but there are clues here and there – look at Acts 18 v.25 and 19 v.3.  Paul comes across those at Ephesus who knew only the baptism of John– a vast distance from the Jordan.  What stood out in our chapter 3 in Luke today was the bluntness of John's message; it was far from being simply an appeal to love your neighbour as yourself – which is the substance of the preaching in many churches today.  They had to examine themselves and change their ways and “bear fruits in keeping with repentence” – to put it bluntly, to show they were repentant by actions – not just words. Many had a certain pride in being children of Abraham – some today feel they can at least say, ‘I have a Bible in my house – and I read it – sometimes.' John was the one sent to “prepare the way of the Lord” [v.4] of whom Isaiah (40 v.3-5) had prophesied.  John detailed what the Lord, the Messiah, was to accomplish  What he did not realize, in common with everyone else, was that the Messiah would have to come twice!  Only part of what John preached was accomplished by Jesus – the rest awaits the Messiah's now imminent second coming – and how awesome are the words that apply to that coming!  “His winnowing fork (used in harvesting) is in his hands to clear his threshing floor, and to gather the wheat into his barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.” [v.17] Chaff are ears of wheat that are useless, they have failed to produce; how much chaff can God see in the world today!!  Let us make sure we are not among the chaff!  Let us all “bear good fruit” for John also preached, “Every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.”[v.9]  Bearing good fruit should – indeed – must be – a labour of love for our Lord – before the harvest time occurs.  What wonders then follow!

Today's readings.. (Leviticus 19), (Psalm 19:81-128), (Luke 2)These are the first words in our Psalms reading; what does your soul long for, is it the same as the Psalmist?  We read, “My soul longs for your salvation; I hope in your word.  My eyes long for your promise …” (Ps.119 v.81,82) There is real urgency in his expressions – do we share that sense of urgency?Then we come to 3 extra-special verses (v.97-99) it would be good to memorize.  They start, “O how love I your law! It is my meditation all the day; your commandment makes me wiser than my enemies, for it is ever with me.  I have more understanding than all my teachers, for your testimonies are my meditation.”  God's law is to be loved, to be meditated upon – and the result of doing this, the Psalmist says, “I hold back my feet from every evil way in order to keep your word.” [v.101] His next thoughts are, “ … you have taught me.  How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth … therefore I hate every false way.”  The Psalmist continues, “Your testimonies are my heritage forever, for they are the joy of my heart.” [v.111]        The “law” that the Israelites were expected to “love” was no set of ‘thou shalt not's.   Jesus found them “sweet” and as we read Luke ch. 2 we pondered the conversation that the 12 year old Jesus had in the temple – where Mary and Joseph eventually found him “sitting among the teachers … asking them questions.  And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers.” [v.46,47]The chapter concludes in this lovely way, “And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature (or years) and in favour with God and man.” May we all do the same, although it is becoming increasingly difficult to increase in favour with our fellow humans because of the great God-less state of the world that is now around us, but this will lead us to say with greater and greater fervency and meaning, “My soul longs for your salvation.”

Today's readings.. (Leviticus 17,18), (Psalm 19:41-80), (Luke 1) These words are taken from the inspired speech of Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist.  Because he did not believe the angel who appeared to him in the Temple he had been made dumb, then when the child is born and there is pressure to call him Zechariah, the father's “tongue is loosed and he spoke blessing God.  And fear came upon all their neighbours” [Luke 1 v.65]  The sense of ‘fear' does not mean being scared or afraid, but to be in awe.Today's chapter then tells us that “Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied …” [v.67]  It is a prophecy about the coming task of his newborn son “who will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways” [v.76]Compared to human expectations God's time frame for action  is exceedingly slow: it had been some 400 years since God had sent the last prophet (Malachi) to his nation, but, as Zechariah now says, “the Lord God … spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old, that we should be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us …” [v.70,71]Because they rejected his Son, God delayed the fulfilment of this – to our days – but “time” from God's perspective is so different; but isn't it remarkable the deliverance that the re-born nation of Israel has experienced since 1948 in being “saved … from the hand of all who hate (them)”!!Deliverance needs to be assessed from several perspectives; there is deliverance from fear of evil men and deliverance from sin and death  John and then Jesus came to “give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.” [v.79] How clearly are we seeing the “light” and letting it “guide our feet”?   There are so many traps these days as to where we can put our “feet” – in a spiritual sense of course. How many appreciated the “light”  they were seeing in the words of John and Jesus?  They all stumbled and fell.  By his grace, those with genuine hearts were pulled to their feet again.  May we have genuine hearts and clearly see the light, only then can we “serve him without fear.” .

A @Christadelphians Video: This Audio Book by Harry Tennant (read by Paul Cresswell) invites us to pursue a path through the Word of God whilst examining the faith of a Christadelphian.It deals freely and in detail with the things which Christadelphians believe and do, and what their organisation and way of life are like.The community has borne the name Christadelphian since the latter half of the 19th century. The name is intended to cover three words: 'Brethren in Christ'. Christadelphians are to be found in countries all over the world. They are bound together by a common faith in the gospel preached by Jesus Christ and his apostles in the first century.It was this faith and its appeal to men and women from all walks of life which brought the community into existence.This series will clearly show how the Christadelphian faith rests squarely and solely on the Bible as the Word of God.And the true Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God - Romans 10:17.**[Revealing] Discover the foundational beliefs of the Christadelphians in this outstanding and insightful Bible talk by Harry Tennant. Based on his thought-provoking book, this expositional presentation provides a clear, Scripture-based guide to what Christadelphians believe and preach. Explore the coherent Biblical hope centered on God's purpose from creation to the coming Kingdom. A wonderful resource for sincere seekers of truth.****Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction: Contending for the Faith00:38 - The Pattern of Darkness Veiling Light01:01 - The Constancy of God's Word01:38 - The Need for a Guide to Scripture02:07 - The Book's Objective: Charting the Gospel03:56 - Forward by Michael Ashton04:04 - Invitation to Examine Christadelphian Faith04:48 - The Meaning of the Name "Christadelphian"05:20 - Foundation: The Bible Alone as God's Word06:05 - Key Historical Writings06:57 - Chapter One: The Fair Earth07:02 - Human Knowledge & The Unity of Creation08:33 - The Bible's Explanation of Origins09:37 - Consequences of a Godless Universe10:54 - Scriptural Testimony on God & Creation15:59 - The Ultimate Purpose: Earth Filled with Glory17:44 - Preview: Examining God's Purpose18:01 - Conclusion & Call to Action**Bible Verses Featured:**

Today's readings.. (Leviticus 15), (Psalm 117,118), (2 Corinthians 10,11) We are now nearing the climax of Paul's 2nd letter to the Corinthians.  He becomes increasingly blunt in the way he expresses his thoughts:  having carefully reasoned out the true gospel and the need to live a Christ-like life he now bluntly challenges them: he says, “I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a pure and sincere devotion to Christ.” [11 v.3]Our awareness of that which is “pure and sincere” is only obtained by our ‘sincere devotion'  to God's word, leading us to make every effort in keeping our thinking “pure” – as a foundation to maintaining true belief and behavior. In the next verse Paul rebukes them for their lack of diligence in remaining true to their convictions of belief at their conversion –  “for if someone,” writes Paul, “comes and proclaims another Jesus than the one we proclaimed or if you receive a different spirit from the one you received, or if you accept a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it readily enough.”Paul's rebuke to them has had its parallels ever since his day.  There are those who “disguise themselves as servants of righteousness,” but says Paul, “Their end will correspond to their deeds” [v.15].       We can see in these verses that it is both “deeds” and believing a “different gospel” that were a problem in Corinth – and this has continued to be a critical problem ever since.  Our constant and diligent reading of God's word is the best way for us to ensure we are “not led astray” and that we maintain, as with Paul, “the meekness and gentleness of Christ.” [10 v.1] 

Today's readings.. (Leviticus 12,13), (Psalm 113,114), (2 Corinthians 5,6,7)We often think of the occasion the disciples showed Jesus the grandeur of the Temple (Mark 13 v.1,2). What was in their minds?  They, like their fellow Jews, were proud of it.  Jesus totally shocked them by saying it was all going to be destroyed!  Now in today's reading in 2nd Corinthians (chs.5, 6 & 7) Paul shows how a new kind of Temple had been “erected”.   God seeks to dwell in a new ‘Most Holy Place' and this development is the most important thing in the life of a believer.  Paul writes, “we are the temple of the living God, as God has said …” [Ch. 6 v.16]. He then quotes the words of God we will read later this month in Leviticus (ch.26 see v.11,12) of the blessings to come if they follow his precepts.   We specially notice God's words to Moses that Paul felt he could ‘powerfully' quote in his letter? “I will make my dwelling among them and walk among them, and will be their God, and they shall be my people.  Therefore go out from their midst and be separate from them … then I will welcome you and I will be a father to you and you shall be sons and daughters to me, says the Lord Almighty.” [v.16-18]What are they to go out from?  They had left the fleshpots of Egypt, but sadly many now wanted to return. Paul then paraphrases the words in Leviticus,  “since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit bringing holiness to completion in the fear (awe) of God” [Ch.7 v.1]  How incomplete is my holiness – we must each ask ourselves?  In recognising that our minds and hearts are the spiritual temple in which God seeks to live – indeed – is now living – we must each ask ourselves – what occupied my mind yesterday, will there be a change today in the things I think about and meditate upon?       It is vital that we are positive in reacting to this challenge – how utterly wonderful to have God in our very being, watching over us!   We therefore see how important it is that we read God's word every day, for  isn't that what should happen in “the temple of the living God.”

A @Christadelphians Video: Description: If humans have immortal souls, what is the point of resurrection? The Bible is opened to discuss what God's view of the human after-life is like. This thought-provoking Bible Talk presents an insightful and expositional examination of a core Christian doctrine: the resurrection of the dead. In this revealing report, we confront a widespread departure from biblical truth within modern Christendom. Are popular teachings about death and the afterlife based on the Bible or on human tradition? We go directly to the Scriptures to uncover the outstanding hope God offers through a future resurrection, a promise underwritten by the God who created us. This outstanding presentation clarifies what the Bible truly says about the state of the dead, the timing of judgment, and the wonderful hope of immortality granted only through Christ. Join us for this foundational study.*Chapters / Timestamps:*00:00 - Introduction: Examining Departure from Bible Truth00:48 - The Promise of Resurrection in Daniel02:06 - The Reliability of Scripture02:58 - Dying in Faith Without Receiving Promises04:12 - First Century Errors & Modern Misunderstandings05:32 - Judgment Follows Resurrection, Not Death06:47 - The Practical Example of Lazarus08:01 - Preaching Resurrection to a Pagan World09:07 - Christ: The First Fruits of Resurrection10:42 - The Critical Importance of Resurrection for Faith11:36 - The Origin of the "Immortal Soul" Teaching13:22 - The State of the Dead: Thoughts Perish14:43 - The True Christian Comfort in Death16:11 - The Importance of Correct Timing17:14 - The Charge to Preach Sound Doctrine17:55 - Conclusion: Resurrection is the Only Hope*Bible Verses Featured:*

Today's readings.. (Leviticus 9,10), (Psalm 108,109), (2 Corinthians 1,2)‘Sanctified' means recognized as holy, set apart from the commonplace; treating a situation or place with all reverence.  Above all, this must be our attitude toward God.  In our Leviticus reading today we see the dramatic and disastrous result of a failure to do this. Imagine being there with all the wonder of the tabernacle and the manifestation of the actual presence of God as worship in it began!  We read “the glory of the LORD appeared to all the people. And fire came out from before the LORD and consumed the burnt offerings … [9 v.23,24].  As a result human attitudes of reverence and humility should have been paramount.  The reaction at the time was totally understandable, “they shouted and fell on their faces” [v.24].Aaron had 4 sons, all were involved in assisting their father and today's chapter tells us how tragedy overwhelmed two of them.  In the way we speak today we might judge that their position of importance went to their head!  Nadab and Abihu “each took his censer and put fire in it and laid incense on it and offered unauthorized fire before the LORD which he had not commanded them” [10 v.1]The result was terrifying for they “died before the LORD” as fire from him “consumed them” [v.2]  Moses then says to Aaron, “Among those who are near me I will be sanctified, and before all the people I will be glorified” [v.3]  There is a vital lesson here for everyone who seeks to serve God and have a close relationship with him: this applies to Christians just as much as to Israelites. Several examples of a failure to do this come to mind.  One is the practice of christening of babies in many churches which is not mentioned in the Bible – or even hinted at – instead the followers of Christ practiced baptism, which is described as “an appeal to God for a good conscience” [1 Peter 3 v.21]  Another, is the teaching of people of a “different gospel” to “distort the gospel of Christ.” [Galatians 1 v.v.6,7]  Paul says, “let him be accursed” [v.9] who does that – and this is what happened to two of the sons of Aaron. A most important lesson for us as we follow Christ and the Apostles, doing so in ways which truly follow the example they set and the words they preached.

Today's readings.. (Leviticus 8), (Psalm 107), (1 Corinthians 16)Four times in our Psalms reading today (107) we come to a verse that requests a certain action.  “Let them thank the LORD for his steadfast love , for his wondrous works to the children of men.” (v.8,15,21,31)    Then the Psalm ends with the statement, “Whoever is wise let him attend to these things: let them consider the steadfast love of the LORD.”So in being “wise” we get our minds to understand and appreciate the actions of the LORD in attending to – or responding to – the actions or inaction of human beings in the way they live their lives in the sight of God, whether they “see” their Creator – or blindfold themselves – or are simply indifferent toward him.When you think about it there are clear comparisons to that of children toward their parents as they grow up.  And of course there is often considerable failure,, especially these days, in the “wisdom” of human parents in the way they train their children,   But we are dealing with the wonderful divine parent, isn't this the reason why we call him our “Heavenly Father.”Verse 17 states, “Some were fools through their sinful ways and because of their iniquities suffered affliction.”  We can see parallels in these words with life today.  Our world has totally ceased to look to God's word; they have more or less abandoned belief in him and so the time will come, as verses 26,27 tells us,when “their courage melted away in their evil plight; they reeled and staggered like drunken men and were at their wits' end.”  This is the spirit that is starting to ‘swamp' our world more and more; with what astonishment will the world see divine action taking place to prevent humans from destroying God's creation and, in the process, themselves.  The prophets warn of God's ultimate actions, for example through Jeremiah he speaks of the time coming when “the LORD has an indictment against the nations; he is entering into judgment with all flesh … Thus says the LORD of hosts; Behold disaster is going forth from nation to nation …” [Ch.25 v. 31,32]    At that time as v.42 of our Psalm states, “The upright see it and are glad, and all wickedness shuts its mouth.”  Let us make sure we are among those who “thank the LORD … for his wondrous works”  in bringing peace out of utter chaos.

Today's readings.. (Leviticus 7), (Psalm 106), (1 Corinthians 15)We pondered why the above saying rather suddenly occurs in today's very moving and oft quoted 15th chapter of 1 Corinthians.  Parts of this chapter are often read at funerals, it contains a powerful testimony to the certainty of resurrection and that “in Christ shall all be made alive” [v.22] eternally “at his coming” adding the qualification “those who belong to Christ” [v.23]We must not cease to “belong to Christ” but that is not the same as belonging to a group of believers, one can do that, but in one's heart have ceased to belong to Christ – even though we have been baptised. Paul says that among the Corinthians, “some have no knowledge of God, I say this to your shame” [v.34]  He writes this immediately after making the point, “Do not be deceived, bad company ruins good morals.” We are surrounded by people who do not believe in the God of the Bible, but that is not the same as having “no knowledge of God” in the sense Paul meant in this chapter.  Look how the Bible uses this phrase.  Read Proverbs 2 v.1-5 and note the “ifs” that lead to one having a “knowledge of God” and then the prayer of Jesus in John 17 v.3, 25.  In these and similar passages we see that in having a “knowledge of God” we must, as a result, have a real relationship with him.It is “bad company” that will undermine our “knowledge of God” and then destroy that relationship or prevent it ever happening. But what is “bad company?”  Today it occurs in dangerous and new ways.  Television provides us with “company” and much of it qualifies as “bad company”!  As we see badness multiplying in the world – often all around us – we recognise that TV is a powerful influence in this.  As a result human behaviour is displaying more and more selfish self-love and animal like instincts.  Over and above the effects of much that is on TV, most now have regular access to the Internet – which offers a whole range of opportunities for even worse “bad company.” Returning to our chapter we notice the last 2 verses,  “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.  Therefore, my beloved … be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labour is not in vain.”

A @Christadelphians Video: Inspiring, thought-provoking, and deeply insightful! Join us for an outstanding expositional journey as we tackle one of the Bible's most defining questions: **Is there only one way to salvation from death?**In a world that champions many paths, we explore the Bible's clear and wonderful message. This revealing presentation logically and scripturally examines why salvation is found exclusively in Jesus Christ, and how this foundational truth shapes our hope, our doctrine, and our daily lives.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction & Welcome01:30 - Presenter Introduction: Peter Styles02:40 - The Modern "Mountain" Analogy & Its Flaw04:20 - Our True Condition: Lost, Sick, and in Need of Salvation05:05 - Logical Examination: Can All Religions Be True?07:02 - The Authority of the Bible08:57 - The One Way: Jesus Christ (John 14:6, Acts 4:12)10:07 - One Bible, Many Denominations: Why It Matters10:53 - The Narrow Way That Leads to Life (Matthew 7:13-14)11:14 - How Belief Directly Impacts Hope (2 Timothy 2:15-18)13:25 - How Belief Directly Impacts How We Live (Romans 6:1-4)16:37 - The Call to Follow Christ (Luke 9:23)16:48 - Conclusion: The Unity of the One Way (Ephesians 4:4-6)**Bible Verse Category:**

Today's readings.. (Leviticus 5,6), (Psalm 105), (1 Corinthians 14)Our Psalms reading (105) stresses that God is fully conscious of all that happens among his creation.  Many examples are given that illustrate the reality of what Paul told the Athenians, that God “is actually not far from each one of us” [Acts 17 v.27) that “we have our being” within the Divine presence and, as Job expressed it, “In his hand is the life of every living thing” [12 v.10]  Look at some of the illustrations of this in today's Psalm, note how it tells us to “seek the LORD and his strength; his presence continually.” [v.4] We do not have to travel to seek his presence, we need to start each day by doing that: we need to “remember the wondrous works that he has done.” [v.5]  These works are seen, both in creation, and in the wonderful way “all things work together” (see Romans 8 v.28) to achieve God's purpose.  This is seen in history; David reminds us of “his miracles, and the judgments he uttered” to the “offspring of Abraham” [v.5,6].  But it is not just with Israel that God is involved, “his judgments are in all the earth” [v.7] and the full reality and climax of this will be seen when Jesus returns. The detail of the divine involvement in human life is made clear in our Leviticus reading (ch. 5 & 6). We read of more of the divine laws being put in place to cause the nation being formed in the wilderness to become a genuine “”holy nation” (Exod. 19 v.6).  Sadly, they failed in this. David and his son Solomon did their best in their days to lead the people into becoming a holy nation.  Then God's son came to inspire people to develop personal holiness.  The aim must be, as we will read next week in Paul's 2nd letter to the Corinthians, to “cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God.” [7 v.1]In our chapter today Paul is urgently encouraging them to “let all things be done for building up … for God is not the author of confusion but of peace …” [14 v.33].  Confusion comes when God's word is not read properly – we should not pick and choose the parts which suit us, fully realizing that when “his judgments are in all the earth” when Christ returns,  “then each of us will give account of him(her)self to God.” [Rom. 14 v. 12]  Let us “seek … his strength and “his presence continually.”

A @Christadelphians Video: **YouTube Video Summary / Description**Is the Bible just a collection of ancient stories, or is it something more? In this thought-provoking presentation, we examine the evidence for the Bible's divine authorship. Many dismiss the Scriptures as mere mythology, but what does the historical and prophetic record actually reveal?Join us for an insightful exploration where we tackle common criticisms and present compelling evidence that vindicates the Bible's truth. We delve into outstanding archaeological discoveries, like the Hittite civilization, that confirm the Bible's historical accuracy. We also examine a specific, precise prophecy in Ezekiel 26 concerning the city of Tyre, a revealing divine fingerprint on history.When we consider the Bible's internal consistency across 1,500 years, dozens of authors, and three continents, the case for its divine inspiration becomes powerful and transformative. This isn't just an academic exercise; understanding that the Bible is God's Word changes how we live and think. Discover how this exceptional book can provide purpose and direction for your life.**Chapters / Timestamps:**00:00 - Introduction: Is the Bible the Word of God?01:13 - Addressing Common Criticisms02:09 - Archaeological Evidence: The Hittites04:51 - Archaeological Evidence: King Belshazzar06:57 - Prophetic Evidence: The Prophecy Against Tyre09:41 - The Unified Story and God's Plan11:42 - The Bible's Testimony About Itself12:11 - Conclusion: The Transformative Power of God's Word13:14 - Q&A: Tips for Consistent Bible Reading15:23 - Q&A: What is God's Unified Plan in the Bible?19:46 - Q&A: Why is the Bible Long and Seemingly Complex?**Categories & Bible Verses:**

It is interesting in how many parts of Scripture we find the words “blot” and “blotting” used  – to indicate that God is so angry he is  wiping out someone or some people, the worst case was in the time of Noah (Gen. 6 v.7 & 7 v.23) We encounter them today in Exodus. Our chapters today portray the fickleness of human nature; Moses is away – up in the mountain (Joshua is with him) for 40 days.  That is a relatively long time when you are camped – with very little to do. The same applies to today – but worse – year after year with no thought of their being a God, no long term future, people say/think, ‘let us experience all we can now'.  The ‘gods' of pleasure and leisure now dominate human minds. But we ourselves have no excuse, we have God's word to feed on, chew over, as much as we may desire – and his word provides a great variety of mind nourishing – and mind and heart challenging material for our prayerful meditation. Are we really doing this?In the time Moses is with him on the mount the LORD is aware of the attitude that is developing down in the Camp; he says to Moses,  “I have seen this people, and behold, it is a stiff-necked people.  Now therefore let me alone, that my wrath may burn hot against them …” [32 v.9,10]Can we compare the absence of Moses with the absence of Christ?  There was keen anticipation of Christ's return and the ‘promised land' of the kingdom in the brotherhood some 150 years ago, this reached its peak with the deliverance of Jerusalem from the Turks over 100 years ago.  Then, the brotherhood was full of anticipation of the immanence of Armageddon and the advent of the kingdom when Israel became a nation. But, as with Moses seeming ‘delay' in the mountain, how many of us feel, at least subconsciously, that our Lord seems to be delayed in his return?  Our world offers an increasing number of distractions – they are not necessarily evil!  How interesting travel can be, many up until 2020 “ran to and fro” and what fascinating ‘mind consuming' inventions now exist; ‘knowledge'  has incredibly increased. We know well these words in Daniel 12 v.4 – but is v.10 so readily in our minds? “And none of the wicked shall understand, but those who are wise shall understand.”   How full and convicted of mind are we in our understanding?In all the crisis that occurred when Moses came down from the mountain, v.33 stands out! ‘the LORD said to Moses, “Whoever has sinned against me, I will blot out of my book.”      If we, having left ‘Egypt', are now letting our minds wander and become absorbed in the ways that surround us, and  in a sense, ‘worship' the fascinating things and experiences our world thrusts before us, then are we not most likely to be among those of whom God says, “I will blot (them) out of my book.”?   This is food for the deepest meditation. 

Today's Psalm (92) tells us “It is good … to declare your steadfast love in the morning” [v.1,2]  It is important to begin each day with taking at least a little time to focus our thoughts upon God, to declare to him in prayer our “steadfast love.”  We read on, “For you O LORD, have made me glad by your work; at the works of your hands I sing for joy.”[v.4]   The wonders of creation are all around us, it is so easy to take them for granted. It is the greatest foolishness of human thinking to imagine that everything, sort of “created” itself.  God's handiwork surrounds us on every side, men have discovered so much more about the wonders of their own bodies and the incredible intricacies of nature, yet so few acknowledge and are in awe of the unlimited creative “mind” that brought it all into being.The Psalmist says “It should make us “glad” and “sing for joy.  How great are your works O LORD!  Your thoughts are very deep.” [v.4,5]  That last brief statement seems inadequate.  Can we begin to imagine the thought processes of God!  No – we cannot.  Through Isaiah God said, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD.  For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” [55 v.8,9]Last month in Psalm 40 we read “You have multiplied, O LORD my God, your wondrous deeds and your thoughts toward us; none can compare with you! I will proclaim and tell of them, yet they are more than can be told.” [v.5]   Tomorrow in Psalm 94 we will read the contrast, “the Lord knows the thoughts of man, that they are but a breath” [v.11] But having said that the Psalm is positive and we read on, “Blessed is the man whom you discipline O LORD, and whom you teach out of your Law” [v.12]. May you and I feel blessed.So we learn, especially in the Psalms, that God's eyes and thoughts are toward those who fear and love Him.  We have been learning in Exodus of how close to God Moses became; we read yesterday of how he was able to speak to God “face to face, as a man speaks to a friend”[33 v.11]  This does not mean physically face to face, but rather, mind to mind.  The limits to physical contact are described in v.20 when God said, “you cannot see my face, for man shall not see me and live.”  There is a sense in which the Bible shows us the “face” of God, but only when we prayerfully read it with our heart ‘open' to receive and meditate on its meaning.  How precious it should be to us.  How they longed to read it hundreds of years ago when copies were precious and very expensive because they all had to be hand written and paper was very expensive..  Today the situation is the very opposite and the attitude has become the opposite. Let us not be affected by this, let us “declare (y)our steadfast love” every morning – and throughout every day. 

Today we completed reading the Gospel of Mark.  God has seen to it that four records of the life on earth of his Son have been written and preserved so that, together, they provide a detailed picture of what his Son taught and the wonderful events that occurred, events which challenged all who witnessed them and heard him. They needed to show from their hearts what these events really meant to them. The end of Mark's gospel shows that only those to whom Jesus personally appeared believed that he had risen.   We read how some “went back and told the rest, but they did not believe them.” [v.13]    Paul testifies that, after appearing to the twelve, he later appeared to “more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep” [1 Cor. 15 v. 6] The evidence became overwhelming for most – we wonder how the Chief Priests and Pharisees reacted to what they heard!     The whole of the events that followed, including some of the records in secular history from the first and second centuries makes no sense if Christ was not raised. Faith became a keyword among the early believers – the need for faith was an integral part of the wisdom of God and today it applies as much as ever.  Belief in God as the great Creator is an outcome of true faith.  Paul significantly wrote  “that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” [Rom. 8 v.28]  Has God a purpose for you?  Do you sense this? God expects to use those who genuinely believe – in his service – in a whole range of different capacities. We look around us and upward and the faith in our hearts tells us, as it told David that ”The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.” [Psa. 19]  Our Master declared, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” [John 20 v.19]The familiar chapter 11 in Hebrews starts, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen”  Do we fully have that conviction?  Our convictions will be tested when this world starts, as prophesied, to really fall apart.  Let us recall what Jesus said to his disciple Thomas, ”Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” [John 20 v.29] May we all be blessed. May our lives, our actions, increasingly show that we believe – with ALL our heart.

A @Christadelphians Video: **YouTube Video Summary / Description**In a world where society's moral compass is shifting, how can we hold fast to unchanging truth? This thought-provoking Bible talk offers an insightful examination of the clash between modern moral relativism and the absolute moral truth of Scripture. We explore the sobering prophecies of 2 Timothy 3 and Luke 17, revealing how the "creep of the normal" and the legitimate distractions of life pose the greatest danger to believers in the last days. Through an expositional look at the days of Noah and Lot, we uncover powerful lessons on remaining a separate and faithful remnant. This presentation is a powerful call to put on the whole armor of God, hide His Word in our hearts, and stand firm in these perilous times as we await the return of the Lord Jesus Christ.**Chapters / Timestamps:**0:00 - Introduction: The Danger to Disciples0:44 - The Last Days Prophecy in 2 Timothy 32:54 - Defining the "Last Days" and the Day of the Lord4:08 - The Patterns of Noah and Lot in Luke 176:15 - Exploring the Themes of Noah's and Lot's Day9:53 - Summary: Widespread Godlessness and Pride10:46 - The Danger of the "Mundane" and "Normal"14:08 - The Attitude of Abraham vs. The Compromise of Lot16:45 - God's Grace, Mercy, and Human Choice18:08 - The Call to be Separate and Unspotted20:25 - Conclusion: Standing Firm in the Evil Day21:09 - Digging Deeper: Introduction & Recap22:08 - How Moral Prophecy Helps Realign Our Lives23:42 - Discerning Safe vs. Spiritually Dangerous Habits26:59 - Guarding Against the "Creep of the Normal"30:31 - Finding Hope in Last Days Prophecies33:25 - Final Thanks and Closing**Bible Verses Used:**

In this Series, we aim to bring perspective to matters of current news items from a Biblical viewpoint. Whether Prophecy or Moral and Social issues, we highlight Biblical instruction relating to those breaking stories on the world stage.A @Christadelphians Video: Inspiring and thought-provoking! Are we witnessing the birth of a new global power structure? In this insightful Watchman Report, Merv Islip provides an outstanding expositional analysis of today's geopolitical shifts, from military parades to deepening alliances, and reveals the wonderful, hope-filled answer found in Scripture. Join us for a revealing journey from current events to biblical prophecy.**Chapters:**00:00 – Introduction: A Biblical Perspective on World News00:23 – Display of Power: A Challenge to the Western Order01:22 – The Central Question: Threshold of a New World Order?01:35 – The Bible's Hope: God's Plan for a True New Order02:06 – The Kingdom of God: Established at Christ's Return03:12 – A Transformed World: Peace, Justice, and Flourishing05:06 – Conclusion: The World's Desperate Need and Our Prayer**Bible Verse Category:** Daniel 2:44 Matthew 16:27 Acts 1:11 Matthew 25:31 Isaiah 2:2-4 Psalm 72:7, 12-13 Matthew 6:10**Tags:**Watchman Report, Bible Prophecy, Current Events, New World Order, Biblical Perspective, Geopolitics, Kingdom of God, Second Coming, Jesus Christ, Bible Hope, World News Analysis, Christadelphian, Merv Islip, Glen WilliamsWe are a Christadelphian team, Brothers and sisters of Christ, and we're passionate about delivering powerful, Scripture-based content to strengthen and inspire your faith journey. If this presentation resonated with you, help spread the encouragement—share it with a friend today!

Our N.T. reading of Mark's gospel is the heart stirring 72 verses of his 14th chapter.  It records the ‘last supper' that Jesus shared with his disciples and its' age-lasting simplicity has had heart stirring meaning for his genuine disciples in every generation since that time.  After the supper there follows the heart searching time in the garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus prays, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” [v.36]  The individuality of the Father and Son is so evident here, Jesus sets us an example that wherever Scriptural principles are involved we should follow our Saviour's example and say to our heavenly Father, ” not what I will, but what you will.”  These words make it plain that the ‘theology of the Trinity' which the Catholic's invented centuries later, has no place in the mind of the true believer.Judas now comes “and with him a crowd with swords and clubs'.[v.43]  Jesus does not resist, he says, “let the scriptures be fulfilled.”  And so they were, the Old Testament has several prophecies about this; these Scriptures  also make it plain, as we read yesterday, that there will be a final time of trouble for our world. The words Jesus spoke then have a particular application for us now, “Be on guard; I have told you all things beforehand.” [13 v.23]  Back in today's chapter we note what Jesus told the High Priest, and we see its awesome meaning for us as we live with increasing anticipation of this event.  He was warning the High Priest telling him, ” you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.” [v.62]   The High Priest will be there, among the goats! What horror will fill his heart!   But what a wondrous prospect of joy their fulfilment hold for us. Our thoughts go to the words of Paul when he described this coming event to the Thessalonians in his 1st letter to them, ” the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.” [4 v.16,17]   And where will the Lord be?  Reigning from Jerusalem! The world will experience “a new earth in which righteousness dwells” as Peter puts it in his final epistle [3 v.13]  May the “scriptures be fulfilled” very soon – and may we have the strength of faith to endure the coming tribulation with a sure anticipation of the wonders to follow. 

It is necessary for the orderly functioning of life for there to be those in authority to approve and oversee what is to be done.  This is essential for the proper functioning of life, but is it so in every case?  In particular, is it so with Christianity?  Jesus was the authority until he ascended to heaven.  Then the Apostles were given special Holy Spirit powers to exercise authority.   An outstanding example was the drama with Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5 v.1-11) who told lies to the Apostles, but Peter said, “You have not lied to men but to God.” [v.4]Our thoughts on this question arose from today's reading in Mark 11 where we read, “as he (Jesus) was walking in the temple, the chief priests and the scribes and elders came to him and they said to him, ‘By what authority are you doing these things, or who gave you this authority to do them?” [v.27-28]  These men were the bosses, no one was supposed to teach unless they gave them authority, this is one reason why John the Baptist went into the wilderness to preach.    It was this exercise of authority that saw the disciples thrown into prison when they taught in the temple (Acts 4 v.1-3) although later, such was the prestige of the Apostles, created by their miracles, that dramatic scenes unfolded. (Acts 5 v.12,13,17-20), but “none of the rest dared join them.” History shows that as the early believers evolved into large established churches these churches too began to exercise an attitude of authority climaxing in the power of the Pope and the cardinal system. In the Middle Ages, if you were not appointment by church authorities to minister in a church, you had no authority to preach. Some, such as John Bunyan, were put in prison for doing so.But as we will read at the end of Mark's Gospel, Jesus said, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.  Whoever believes and is baptised will be saved …” [16 v.15,16]. That authority is given to everyone, so we all have the responsibility to share our faith. Paul challenges us when he expresses this responsibility in the bluntest terms, “Woe is me if I do not preach the gospel”  [1 Cor.9 v.16]  

What a mixture of fascinating readings we have today!  We recall how the 12 tribes in escaping from Egypt, first asked many things from the Egyptians,  (Exod. 3 v.22)”…you shall plunder the Egyptians.”  It was from these things that they could provide all that was needed to make the golden ark, lampstands, etc.  We read today that from “everyone whose heart moves him you shall receive the contribution … gold, silver, and bronze,   blue and purple and scarlet yarns and …” [25 v.2-4]  Our God desires our freewill service of heart, may our hearts be moved in this way.The 72 verses of our Psalm 78 is teaching “a parable” [v.1,2] about the wonders of God's actions in delivering them from Egypt, to “tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the LORD” [v.4]  Yet we know that the generation that experienced the miraculous escape from Egypt failed to serve God acceptably; they did not develop genuine faith and died in the wilderness: a lesson for us.Our N. T. reading shows the primary weakness of human nature. In Mark's gospel we read how two of Jesus' disciples. “said to him, ‘Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory.'” [10 v.37] Jesus told them that “those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you.” [v.42,43]Our news constantly contains accounts of conflicts between those seeking to exercise authority, seeking the ‘top' job, especially in politics: there is particular aggressiveness in election campaigns.  But Jesus told his disciples (and us) “whoever would be great among you must be your servant,  and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all.  For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”[v.43-45]In the future, those who have truly followed the example of Jesus, will be made “great” in whatever way the Master decides.  We looked back at v.29-31 and the teaching of Jesus that “there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters  …. who will not receive a hundredfold now in this time…” also “houses and brothers and sisters (in Christ – now)  … with persecutions” (and we think of those today in countries such as Iran)  – all such will receive  “in the age to come eternal life.”   Let us seek the ‘slavery' of service to our Lord now, with its blessings of a spiritual family –  anticipating in faith, when the angels are sent forth, we will be dramatically delivered from the ‘Egypt' that surrounds us today.

A @Christadelphians Video: Discussion: The Bible is a book ahead of its time in describing parts of the natural world. Scientific discoveries have endorsed the Bible facts. Some science 'facts' have been modified over time as later discoveries have shown earlier conclusions were wrong, and the Bible was always right. Talk concluded with a useful Q and A session.Is the Bible an outdated book of fables, exposed by modern science? Or does scientific discovery actually point toward the truth of Scripture? In this thought-provoking presentation, we explore the dynamic relationship between science and the Bible.We examine compelling examples where the Bible anticipated scientific discoveries, from ocean currents to the water cycle. The discussion reveals how science and faith are not enemies, but can be complementary ways of understanding our world. We also consider what happens when we place our faith entirely in human wisdom and what outstanding truths the Bible provides that science alone cannot.Join us for an insightful and expositional talk that strengthens the foundation for a faith built on both observation and revelation.

Joining hands, a handshake, is a physical sign of friendship, but Moses uses the term in a metaphysical sense in today's Exodus reading (Chapter 23).  This contains warnings about joining hands for bad reasons.  Moses makes some down-to-earth statements of things that God sees as wrong, and did not want to see in his people that were being trained in the wilderness to become a nation.  Several of the things we read about are part of life today as men and women act in devious ways to cheat and deceive one another; and much money is made by the legal profession as some try to put right the wrongs they see as being done to them.”Now these are the rules you shall set before them,” God said to Moses [Ch.21 v.1]   What if these rules were in place today! What about the kingdom age, what do we read in Isaiah!  “When your judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world learn righteousness” [26 v.9]  When we come to Psalm 96 we will read “ …he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness, and the peoples in his faithfulness.” [v.13]  Now Paul made the point to the Corinthians, “do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if the world is to be judged by you, are you incompetent to try trivial cases?” [1 Cor. 6 v.2]  Paul made another thought challenging point in writing to the Hebrews, he warned  those  who had “shared in the Holy Spirit,” that they  “have tasted … the powers of the age to come…” [6 v.4,5]  and that they must not abuse this privilege.  What cause for our heart-felt contemplation here! Consider the role of the saints in the kingdom!  Your role – the powers you will have?!  Back to our Exodus chapter, here is a sample of the kind of rules that will be in place in the kingdom. We read,  “You shall not join hands with a wicked man to be a malicious witness.  You shall not fall in with the many to do evil, nor shall you bear witness in a lawsuit, siding with the many, so as to pervert justice” [23 v.1-2].  When Jesus said that we should love our enemies (Matt. 5 v.44), he surely had in mind things which Moses had said – as we read today, “If you meet your enemies ox or his donkey going astray you shall bring it back to him” [v.4]  But can you make people “love” one another?  Why will there be a rebellion at the end of the 1,000 year reign of Christ? Rev. ch. 20 v.9 tells us that “they marched up over the broad plain of the earth and surrounded the camp of the saints” !  Imagine the cause, the total frustration of many, their desire to “join hands” to do as they please!Let us fully develop a true sense of God's righteousness now in readiness for the role he will, by his grace, expect us to carry out in his kingdom.

“For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes … “  [Mark 8 v.38]   Why would we be ashamed of Jesus – causing him to be ashamed of us?  Notice, he specifically refers to his words!   What has Jesus said that we would be ashamed of talking to our neighbours and fellow workers about?Isn't it our responsibility to share our faith with others?   Next Monday we will read in Mark 12 and must note Jesus' comment about the second commandment – “You shall love your neighbour as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these” [v.31] Surely we talk to our neighbours, are they aware of our faith?  We don't feel ashamed of what we believe, do we? If we do, why?  We must aim to overcome our shyness. When Jesus rebuked Peter because he refused to believe that Jesus was going to be killed, he said to him, “you are not setting your mind on the things of God …” [v.33]  Let us try harder to set our minds on the things of God.  In doing so, we will recall that even in the Law God gave through Moses; there is the command “you shall love your neighbour as yourself” (Leviticus 19 v.18).  This has been a command for all ages.  What a different world this would be if that command was carried out!  And who can doubt but that it will be – by those who live in God's Kingdom.Let us be in training for God's Kingdom now!  What better way to show your love for your neighbour than by encouraging them to believe in the words of Jesus!  We must try to speak to them in the spirit of love, a desire to share something precious; the pearl of great price!  This will be reflected in our attitude as well as in the words that we use, for we ‘communicate' as much by what we do – as by what we say.  The world has a word for it, “body language.” We must seek wisdom from above as we set ourselves to do this.   Remember what James wrote, “the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.” [3 v.17]  

Today we read the straightforward teaching of Jesus that exposes the attitudes that lie behind so much of human behaviour.  His words are probably familiar to us; they were spoken against the background of the rules and regulations taught the Lawyers and Pharisees.   Our chapter 7 in Mark begins with a comment that the “Pharisees and all the Jews … do not eat unless they wash. And there are many other traditions that they observe, such as the washing of cups and pots and copper vessels and dining couches.” [v.3,4]  Now such a practice is good, but when we embellish it, as they did, and turn it into a ritual and a foundation for your sense of righteousness, then it corrupts human thinking. Jesus teaching is very simple and goes to the heart of the problem.  He first quotes Isaiah, “it is written, “‘This people honours me with their lips, but their heart is far from me;  in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.' ” [v.6,7] Let us make sure our doctrines are the commandments and teachings revealed in God's word. The ‘simple' warning of Jesus should be familiar to us,  “from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness.  All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.” [v.21-23]Jesus' words are so applicable to life around us today and while few are guilty of physical murder yet Christ indicates “slander” is serious for it seeks to ‘murder' a person's character.  Consider “coveting … envy .. pride” and then think of the abundance of advertising that surrounds us!  It is aimed at developing and exploiting these attitudes in human thinking: it also encourages and exploits sensuality. These are the main attitudes of mind that threaten to “defile” us today, to develop within and then come “out of the heart”– our heart!  When we come to ch. 12 we will see Jesus' answer to the scribe who asked, “Which commandment is the most important …” [v.28] Jesus replies, “you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.'” [v.30]  What is love?  That is a word that has been totally corrupted today!  If the full focus of our mind is on loving the creator of all life together with his Son who came to offer us ‘abundant life' – then “out of our heart will increasingly come everything that is lovely and Christ-like. 

A @Christadelphians Video:How can a 2000-year-old discovery, still being made today, provide outstanding and concrete proof for the accuracy of Biblical prophecy? In this thought-provoking presentation, we explore the fascinating world of the Dead Sea Scrolls, focusing on a recent breakthrough that solidifies the case for the Bible's divine inspiration.We delve into the incredible story of their discovery and the initial excitement from top archaeologists. We then examine how traditional dating methods created challenges for scholars, specifically concerning the prophecy in Daniel 11. Now, with the aid of new artificial intelligence technology, a clearer picture has emerged—one that confirms the Book of Daniel was written *before* the events it foretold. This is a powerful, evidence-based affirmation of the Bible's reliability.Join us for this insightful expositional talk that strengthens faith through historical and archaeological evidence.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction00:46 - The Discovery of the Scrolls02:43 - Initial Dating and Importance05:44 - Advanced Dating Methods07:53 - The Daniel 11 Prophecy Challenge10:37 - AI and the New Evidence14:15 - The Significance for Our Faith14:43 - Why Scholars Challenge the Bible20:23 - Examples of Archaeology Confirming Scripture24:37 - Practical Lessons for Believers Today27:40 - Dead Sea Scrolls and New Testament Quotations31:48 - Conclusion and Call to Action**Category:**

We read today in great detail of the arrival of the people of Israel at Mt. Sinai on “the third new moon” [Exod. 19 v.1].  For the great mass of people with their flocks and herds, it had been a testing journey from Egypt; there had been many faith testing experiences along the way.  Now they are “encamped before the mountain” [v.2] and the “LORD called to” Moses and tells him to remind them of all their experiences. “Thus you shall … tell the people of Israel:  You yourselves have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles' wings and brought you to myself.” [v.3,4]And today, we have God's word, if we will regularly and diligently read it, to bring into our minds all that God has done in the past and promises to do in the future. We must read it – so that our awareness of God's past actions. words and promises become ‘heart felt' – and not just head knowledge.    Those who commit their lives to God, find their relationship with him keeps growing – we realize we are in a two-way relationship – as Israel had to realize.  The prophet Isaiah wrote, “In all their affliction he was afflicted, and the angel of his presence saved them; in his love and in his pity he redeemed them; he lifted them up and carried them all the days of old.” [63 v.9]We also read today in Exodus 20 details of the giving of the 10 commandments: these were accompanied by “thunder and the flashes of lightning and the sound of the trumpet and the mountain smoking, the people were afraid and trembled” [v.18] “  Moses said to the people, “Do not fear, for God has come to test you, that the fear of him may be before you, that you may not sin.” [v.20] but “the people stood far off …” [v.21]  How close are we to God?  Do we feel inclined to stand “far off”? Perhaps not – but, are we finding getting really ‘close' not at all comfortable? If we read God's word diligently we will see many examples of this testing; our convictions of belief should be increasingly seen by the things we give priority to each day. When we spend much of our time and money mingling with the world, our God is “jealous.”  We must never forget we “were bought with a price” [1 Cor. 6 v.20; 7 v.23].There is a sense in which we no longer belong to ourselves!  We had been, in a sense, in slavery to the world, it surrounded us; physically it still does and it threatens to suffocate us!   How joyful were the Israelites – at first – in their deliverance, what a sense of freedom they must have felt; and surely we were joyful when we first accepted Christ as our deliverer from the world around us – the sense of purpose in our lives – the optimism for the future!  Have those feelings faded? How inspiring are the words in today's Psalm 73, “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart … for me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord GOD my refuge” [v.26,28] Our reading and meditation of God's word is an essential part in maintaining that “strength” – then when events “test you” you have the strength to endure and find “refuge” – and – indeed, you then feel even stronger! 

Today's Psalm (72) is a prayer David wrote at the end of his life – addressed to the LORD about Solomon – who was taking over as king. What a vision David had in doing this, it is evident the LORD took his thoughts beyond the forthcoming reign of Solomon.  His prayer starts, “Give the king your justice, O God, and your righteousness to the royal son!  May he judge your people with righteousness …” [v.1,2] And Solomon was to do this – and we read in Kings and Chronicles how his fame spread far and wide.But David is inspired in prayer to even greater visions of the future, ones that will only be fulfilled in the reign of his greater Son!  He prays that “In his days may the righteous flourish, and peace abound, till the moon be no more!  May he have dominion from sea to sea, and from the River to the ends of the earth!” [v.7,8]  This ultimate future is further emphasised as the Psalm reaches its climax: “May his name endure forever, his fame continue as long as the sun! May people be blessed in him, all nations call him blessed!” [v.17] David's prayer concludes, “Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, who alone does wondrous things.  Blessed be his glorious name forever; may the whole earth be filled with his glory! Amen and Amen.”  We understand that ‘Amen' has the underlying meaning, of ‘so be it, this is sure, this is truth.'David's prayer is a prayer for all true believers in God and His Son Jesus and the ultimate divine purpose for life on this earth. The final and ‘postscript' verse of the Psalm is “The prayers of David, the son of Jesse, are ended.”  The next group of Psalms are prepared by Asaph and others for singing in the Temple – until we get another “Amen and Amen”  at the end of Psalm 89.  Let us all make David's prayer ours, pleading in prayer to God – “may the whole earth be filled with his glory” – very soon.

The survival and restoration of the nation of Israel is one of the most outstanding and thought-provoking confirmations of Bible prophecy. In this Watchman Report, we explore the inspiring and exceptional history of God's chosen people. From their ancient promises to Abraham, through centuries of dispersion and persecution, to their miraculous regathering in 1948, the story of Israel stands as a powerful witness to the reality of God and the truth of His Word. This presentation offers an insightful, Scripture-based exposition of why Israel exists today against all odds and what this means for our understanding of biblical prophecy.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction00:28 - The Modern Phenomenon of Israel01:08 - The Ancient Promise to Abraham02:20 - The Warning of Scattering03:32 - Disobedience and Exile04:09 - Persecution and Survival Through History05:25 - The Holocaust and National Rebirth06:30 - The War for Independence07:18 - A Miraculous Victory08:05 - Modern Conflicts and Survival08:27 - Bible Prophecy Fulfilled09:51 - Israel as God's Witness10:35 - The Promise of Future Fulfillment11:11 - Conclusion**Bible Verses Featured:**

We all have probably had the experience of suddenly seeing another side of friend's character that we did not know existed.   We then wonder what kind of person they really are!  Hopefully these are good things we see, but sadly, that is not always the case.Now consider the experience of the disciples of Jesus, our heading is the question they asked themselves at a time when they had been “filled with great fear” and as a result had said, “Who then is this, that even wind and see obey him?” [Mark 4 v.41] We have already read in Mark of Jesus doing many marvellous healings; a paralysed man, a leper, a man with a withered hand, &c, so that “his fame spread everywhere” [1 v.28]: yet when he stills the storm and “the wind ceased and there was a great calm” [4 v.39] they then asked each other “Who then is this?” Most of them were fishermen, this miracle occurred in an environment with which they were very familiar.  Surely they had learnt when there was a  risk of weather of this this nature they would not venture out.  Matthew, Mark and Luke all record this dramatic event, it was etched in their memory.  It is described as “a great windstorm” and the “waves were breaking into the boat.”  As Jesus dramatically stills the storm, he asks, “Have you still no faith?” [v.40]  Compare this with what we read today in Exodus 16, there is a challenging parallel!  The nation of Israel had witnessed miracles, the plagues, walking through the sea on dry land and the destruction of the Egyptians armies at the hands of their all-powerful God – the one whose name/reputation was being established by these events.  As they “grumbled against Moses” because of the lack of food [v.2] Moses could have said, “Have you still no faith?” We have commented several times that in this 21st Century we are travelled in a sinful Godless wilderness.  Storms of God's judgements are starting to break out on this world, they are going to get worse, news bulletins are full of the detail of countries with problems and catastrophes.  We all need to really get to know our Lord and Master and develop such a measure of faith that makes us certain Jesus is in control whatever may come on this earth.  Meditate on James 1 v.5-8 

Today's Psalm (69) of David is very heart stirring.  Some of its verses are prophetic of events in the life on earth of his greater son.  David is conscious that God's all seeing ‘eyes' means he is fully aware of the problems surrounding him – and some of these prefigured situations that would occur in the life of Jesus.  David built up his faith in his Creator, setting us an example, “my prayer is to you, O LORD,  At an acceptable time, O God, in the abundance of your steadfast love answer me in your saving faithfulness.” [v.13]  He pleads, “Hide not your face from your servant; for I am in distress; make haste to answer me.” [v.17]  The Gospels show the times of urgency in the life of Jesus, times when he sought deep communion with his father. In Luke 6 v.12 we read, “he went out to the mountain to pray, and all night he continued in prayer to God.”We can only surmise the situations that caused David to write, “Reproaches have broken my heart, so that I am in despair. I looked for pity, but there was none, and for comforters, but I found none.   They gave me poison for food, and for my thirst they gave me sour wine to drink.” [v.20,21] Some of his experiences pre-figured events in the life of his greater Son!  Have there been experiences in our life which are to some degree a little parallel?  Has our faith increased as a result of finding strength (from our Saviour) to overcome them and then to become stronger to more boldly face any future situations?There are verses in this Psalm that will inspire and lift up our hearts as they must have lifted up the heart of Jesus. “I am afflicted and in pain; let your salvation, O God, set me on high!”  David then added, “I will praise the name of God with a song; I will magnify him with thanksgiving.” [v.29,30]  When we “magnify” what God is, he becomes large in our thoughts and dominates our mind.  How significant that David next prays, “you who seek God, let your hearts revive.”[v.32]  Our world threatens to overwhelm our minds with its godlessness, – so how urgent should be our spirit of seeking a revival of our hearts so as to have a fully heart-felt relationship with God day after day.  Our Psalm ends by declaring, “For God will save Zion … and those who love his name shall dwell in it.”  

The words of Jesus in many places challenge us to meditate and think through what he says so as to get to the heart of the point he is making.  In Mark ch. 2 today we see how he responds to the Pharisees' criticism of his disciples because they, on a Sabbath day, in walking through the grain fields, plucked and ate ears of corn.  The Pharisees had minutely defined all the precepts of the Law so that their sense of their own righteousness rested on keeping the definitions of the Law they had developed.In response to their criticism Jesus said, “”Have you never read what David did, when he was in need and was hungry, he and those who were with him: how he entered the house of God … and ate the bread of the Presence” [v.25,26]  Of course they had read what David did!  But they never took in the significance of his action: they had ‘tunnel vision' on the application of the Law, their ‘righteousness' was based on meticulously keeping the letter of the Law, even ‘embroidering' the Law as they interpreted it to their satisfaction.   Jesus on one occasion remarked on how “two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector.  The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get…'”  [Luke 19 v.10-12]  He concentrated on speaking to God and of boasting of his righteousness: we can say, he had ‘I' trouble! In contrast, said Jesus, “the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!'” [v.13]  This is a lesson for us! We can become proud of all the detail of what we read and learn!  This pride can lead us to have a sort of ‘tunnel vision' as to the way to understand the meaning of what we have read!  Jesus said, of the second man, ” I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”[v.14] There is a simple, but powerful lesson, in those words!  Let us have a heart-felt sense of awe as we read the Bible's divinely inspired words every day. Paul warned Timothy in his final letter about those who are “always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth.” [2 Tim. 3 v.7] Their learning was undertaken with the wrong motive, just like the Pharisees. May we have the right motive whenever we “read” God's word. 

We thought about this for some time. How do we understand the references in today's chapter of Exodus [Exodus 10] to the LORD hardening Pharaoh's heart.   [Exodus 10:1,10,27]   Can God blame man for what God does – if that is the way to understand this? Notice how Moses conveys the message of the LORD (i.e. Yahweh/Jehovah) to Pharaoh, “Thus says the LORD, the God of the Hebrews; how long will you refuse to humble yourself before me?” [Exodus 10:3]Pharaoh refused to recognise the power of the one and only God. In the time of Joseph God's power had been fully recognised as a result of the 7 years of famine and plenty. Then we read in Exodus 1:8 “Now there arose a new king over Egypt that did not know Joseph” and the situation changed. To restore the spirit of knowing and fearing the only real God was surely part of the purpose of God in sending the plagues. God saw to it that a Pharaoh was “raised up” whose attitude and pride would cause this to happen.We can see a modern parallel to this today. When printing was invented, the first book printed in nearly every language was the Bible! We are celebrating 400 years since the King James Version of the Bible was first printed. Four Centuries ago there was a wonderful change in the attitudes of many people; the world became more spiritual; laws were influenced by the principles set out in the laws in the Bible. The R.C. Church tried to resist this but the reformation movement, fed by the reading of the Bible, spread throughout the world. People at last read for themselves what God had really done and said.The effect of this reformation movement came to an end during the 20th Century, now a whole generation has now arisen who largely do not know the Bible. Sadly some read the Bible to get power and influence for themselves and distort what it says and trying to find in it things they want to believe. The stage is set therefore, for God to bring another series of plagues on the earth, to show his power to Godless man, so that once again people will be aware of the true God, but it will require one last dramatic act of God to really cause them to wake up – and that surely will be the return of Christ to rule the earth. 

“… fulfilling his word” not quoted from our readings today, but from the verse in Psalm 148 that we quoted at the end of our thoughts yesterday. We recalled this today as we read of the encounters of Moses and Aaron with Pharaoh.  Moses stated the words of God as to what God would do because of Pharaoh's refusal to let “let my people go.” [Exodus 9:2]Pharaoh said what he would do as a result of the damage caused by the hail. “I and my people are in the wrong … I will let you go, and you shall stay no longer” [Exodus 9:27-28] But the chapter ends with “… the heart of Pharaoh was hardened, and he did not let the people go …” So Pharaoh did not fulfil his word!Now we take special note of what God had previously told Moses to say to Pharaoh, “… this time I will send all my plagues on you yourself and on your servants and on your people so that you may know that there is none like me in all the earth. But for this purpose I have raised you up, to show you my power, so that my name may be proclaimed in all the earth.” [Exodus 9:14,16].  The proclaiming of God's name is that his reputation became known throughout the nations of the then known world.So God fulfilled his word! The Bible is full of examples of God fulfilling his word. It is fascinating to read the examples of God's word in Old Testament times about the coming of the Lord Jesus, first to “bring the good news to the poor … to proclaim the year of the Lord's favour”  [Isaiah 61:1-2] and then the ultimate time, soon to be fulfilled, achieved by the return of Christ when “the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise to sprout up before all the nations.” [Isaiah 61:11]God and his Son set the example for us; when we give our word, such as in marriage, or at the time of baptism, to fulfil the commitment we have made. Believers have been given God's words to keep; they, in a sense, fulfil his word by the way they live their lives. Look at the words of Jesus to his disciples in John 14:23 “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my father will love him, and we will come and make our home with him.”We possess the word of God; we read from it every day, it becomes part of us. May that happen so that – our hearts will never suffer hardening, as did the heart of Pharaoh.

Our readings today – in Exodus and Romans tie in together in their reference to the exaltation of Moses, now ready, in God's sight, to serve him after 40 years of preparation “in the land of Midian.”  Moses is now a meek and humble man (Numbers 12 v.3) – God can now use him.      Paul's points in our Roman's chapter (9) are illuminating: first, he states how God “says to Moses, ‘'I will have mercy on whom I have mercy… So then it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God who has mercy.'” [v.15,16] In our Exodus reading yesterday we saw how God could not use Moses' own “will and exertion” [2 v.11-15].  Paul then drives home the lesson that we cannot deserve, i.e. ‘earn' God's blessing by our own efforts.All God's blessings are an expression of God's mercy. This is parallel to talking about God's grace; therefore it is really saddening today when so many talk and write glibly about ‘grace' as though it is an ever-flowing factor that they can be certain about – regardless of how they behave,              Paul next makes the point that “Scripture says to Pharaoh, ‘For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I might show my power in you, and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth'”. [v.17]   This is not the proclamation of God's actual name as an intellectual understanding, but of God's reputation – that was about to be established by what he did.  We will read of this in the next few days; the dramatic deliverance from Egypt of the descendants of Jacob.              In relation to this, look carefully at our reading in Exodus 3  where God's name is given as , “I will be what I will be” [v.14 – as shown in the ESV footnote] Primarily, this means God will ‘make' his name, that is, his reputation, by what is about to happen – “This is my name forever, and thus I am to be remembered throughout all generations.” [v.15].   Their deliverance from Egypt became a ‘memorial' which all generations would look back to – as a foundation for their confidence in God.  Thus, when we come to read Psalm 135 and its praises to the LORD we will see the full significance in v.8-13 of the LORD's name and “renown.”  It is fully expressed in Isaiah 63 v.11-14 how you God “led your people to make for yourself a glorious name.”  Daniel makes the same point in his impassioned prayer (9 v.15)               In the same way we look back to the sacrifice and resurrection of our Savior – and how God made for himself the name of ‘Father.'  This was not so in the Old Testament. We are privileged to call God   ‘Father' – but how many “hallow” that name when they say the Lord's Prayer?  Do we?                It is just as vital to ask; how many are striving to make a ‘name' for themselves which Christ will “remember” when the time comes for him to “confess' what those in his service have achieved according to the “talents” given to them?  Think about what Jesus says in Rev. 3 v.5, “The one who conquers (him/herself!) … I will confess his name before my Father and before his angels.”    Our ‘name” i.e., reputation, Christ will “confess” – will be achieved by you and I in various ways; for example, to quote James 1 v.27, “to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.” 

**The Doomsday Clock: A History of Existential Threat**At the start of 2026, the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists has set its famous Doomsday Clock to 85 seconds to midnight—the closest it has ever been to the hypothetical hour of global doom.This measurement concept originated after World War Two and the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, events which caused terrible destruction and the loss of hundreds of thousands of lives. Following continued bomb testing, including the American H-bomb test in 1952 and tests by other nations, the concerned atomic scientists resolved to provide an annual indication of how close the world, due primarily to nuclear weapons, was to self-destruction.A significant retreat occurred at the end of the Cold War, when the clock was set back to 17 minutes to midnight, reflecting a widespread hope for peace. However, this optimism was short-lived. The clock's hands soon began moving forward again, tumbling almost as fast as they had receded, reaching 89 seconds to midnight last year.**2026: A Confluence of Global Dangers**In their most recent report, the scientists foresee a year of severe conflicts ahead. Key factors prompting the move to 85 seconds include:* Russia's continued war in Ukraine.* The effects of United States and Israeli bombing campaigns in Iran.* The ongoing border clashes between India and Pakistan.* China's tangible threats towards Taiwan.* Rising tensions across the Western Hemisphere following the return of Donald Trump to the US presidency.* The expiry of the last remaining nuclear arms pact between the United States and Russia—the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START). With this treaty lapsed, testing and development of nuclear weapons are advancing once more with fewer restraints.The report also highlights the unregulated rise of artificial intelligence as a major hazard. While AI holds potential for good, the lack of global regulation means it could equally be harnessed for terrible destruction, including the advancement of nuclear weapons and other “apocalyptic dangers.”**New Era of Weaponry: From Testing to Deployment**The world now faces weapons of mass destruction on an unprecedented scale, capable of destroying the world many times over. Russia, in particular, has not stood still. It is bringing new systems to full production, including the Poseidon, an incredibly fast, nuclear-powered underwater cruise missile, and the Oreshnik hypersonic ballistic missile.The Oreshnik, which Vladimir Putin boasts can overcome all current air defence systems, has been used twice in Ukraine. Its recent use on Lviv involved a MIRV (Multiple Independently-targetable Re-entry Vehicle) system, which Putin described as “like raining meteors from the sky”—a reference to multiple warheads, each potentially nuclear-tipped, striking from a single missile. These weapons are now being stationed in Belarus, further escalating tensions in Europe.**The Quest for Peace and the Biblical Prophecy**Amidst this, efforts for peace continue. Donald Trump has moved to establish a “board of peace,” with documentation underway and some countries showing interest, particularly following perceived headway in Gaza-Israel relations. However, the question remains: can such a board truly bring about lasting peace?The Bible speaks plainly to this in 1 Thessalonians chapter five, stating that when mankind says “Peace and safety,” then sudden destruction will come upon them. This is a prophecy for the time of the end, associated with the literal return of the Lord Jesus Christ to the earth—an event we as Christadelphians expect very soon.**Conclusion: A Time for Watchfulness**The advancing Doomsday Clock underscores the profound troubles facing our world, perfectly aligning with the biblical description of the end times.

Paul's letter to the Romans contains some of the most meaningful and thought provoking words in Scripture. It is extremely challenging to read it and embrace all its' points in our minds.  Maybe, more than any other book in the Bible, this book calls for our diligent and meditative study.  But this is the challenge of the whole Bible, it is not at all like a school text book that you go through in a year's study and then leave on the shelf for occasional reference.  God's word is designed by him for our lifelong reading and reflection. Paul had been brought up under the Law of Moses with all its rules and regulations.  He had been zealous for the Law, but, as a result of his dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus, he had, with God's help through the Spirit, applied his mind to the new reality of eternal things – especially – to a personal relationship to his Saviour.The Law of Moses was a Law for Israel as a nation. This Law had been superseded by a situation in which each individual needed to develop a personal relationship with their Saviour the Lord Jesus and with his Father – and through him – is now ‘Our Father.'   Paul writes, “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.  For the creation waits with eager longing …” [8 v.18,19]  This sense of eagerness is felt by all those who see the emptiness in so much of what people enjoy today:  But it is all “creation” that waits for the removal of the curse imposed in Eden.  We learn in Genesis how God said to Adam “cursed is the ground because of you” [Gen. 3 v.17]  Paul goes on to say we “groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons (& daughters), the redemption of our bodies” [v.23]   How true is the word eagerly – especially as we grow older and our minds and bodies feel the effects.   Those who find this life satisfying and enjoyable will not genuinely “wait eagerly” for that which is going to replace it. But for many in the world this life offers little that is enjoyable – so they are often in a far more spiritually acceptable frame of mind before God. Finally, let us all read carefully and prayerfully the last 8 verses (31-39) of Romans ch 8.

A @Christadelphians Video: Inspiring, thought-provoking and deeply revealing, join us as we explore one of the Bible's most outstanding and wonderfully precise prophecies: the downfall of the great merchant city of Tyre. In this insightful presentation, we delve into the rich expositional details of Ezekiel's prophecy, tracing its remarkable fulfilment across centuries. Witness how scripture's accuracy triumphs over criticism, revealing a God who declares the end from the beginning.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction: The Precision of Bible Prophecy00:14 - The Case of Tyre: A Challenge to Critics?01:07 - Consulting Christadelphian Scholarship: The Testimony Archive03:07 - Tyre's Ancient Power & Influence06:25 - Examining the Critic's Claim: Was Ezekiel Wrong?07:23 - Ezekiel 26: A Detailed Prophecy of Destruction11:45 - Reading Carefully: "Many Nations" and the Wave Prophecy14:27 - Nebuchadnezzar's Partial Fulfilment16:54 - Alexander the Great: The Next "Wave" of Fulfilment24:36 - Scraping the Dust: An Amazing Fulfilment in Detail30:15 - Where Was "Old Tyre"? Archaeological and Historical Evidence37:34 - The Site Today: A Refuge for Nets and Birds42:50 - Ezekiel 27: Tyre, the Ship of State48:35 - Ezekiel 28: The Diabolical Prince of Tyre51:33 - The Prince's Blasphemous Claim: "I am a god"55:32 - The Pattern for Apostasy: From Tyre to the Man of Sin1:02:10 - Revelation 18: Tyre and Babylon United in Symbolism1:04:51 - Conclusion: The Supreme Accuracy of God's Word**Bible Verse Category:**

Yesterday we started reading Paul's letter to the Romans.  It contains so much that is relevant to life today.  Paul writes of how humans, “claiming to be wise, they became fools” [Ch.1 v.22]    He says, “what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them” [v.19]   He says, “his invisible attributes …. have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made” [v.20]   In other words, although God himself cannot be seen by human eyes, the evidence of his existence should be plain to humans because of all the remarkable things which he has created.   Paul continues, “they became futile in their thinking and their foolish heart was darkened.” [v.21]   The foolishness of those days, which still continues among some nations, is to believe God is represented in animals, such as Elephants, and to worship them.But today, throughout what we call the Western world, so many who are “claiming to be wise” – believe there is no God of any kind, that everything that exists in some unknowable way – created itself!  This was possible, they strangely reason, if we allow enough millions and billions of years, through an endless series of “accidents.”  Yet the more humans discover the wonders of the world in which they live, the more incredible they finds it to be, all the wonders of DNA being one of the recent examples.  As a result, the more foolish their words in “claiming to be wise” appear to be!  Marvellous designs – but no designer!! The tragedy is that, having convinced themselves there is no God, the words of Paul which follow are even more true today than ever before.  He wrote “and since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind to do what ought not to be done. They were filled with all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice … haters of God, insolent, haughty, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, foolish, faithless, heartless … “ [v.28-31]  There is much more in this chapter including a condemnation of homosexuality; as things that humans do when they have no knowledge or belief in the one and only God.  It is becoming clearer that there is no middle road, we either believe or we do not – and if we believe, we must not be half hearted about it.When the Kingdom is established, may our king say to us as Pharaoh said to Joseph, “there is none so discerning and wise as you are.” [Gen. 41 v.39]  But for the present we must heed Paul's warning in Romans, “Never be wise in your own sight.” [12 v.16]