Christadelphians Talk

In Genesis 3 we have the record of how sin first entered the world through the yielding to temptation by the first created humans - Adam and Eve. The Apostle Paul says also, that at this time death also first came to the Adamic creation as a result of sin - Romans 5verses12. Adam and Eve after their creation - Adam from the dust (Genesis 2verses7), and Eve from Adam's side during a God-induced sleep (2verses20-25) - the man unable to find a suitable partner from the lesser creation; and feeling first, lonely; then joyous with a compatible companion. Chapter 3 commences with an introduction to the snake, who at that era had great powers of observation; limited reasoning capacity; and the ability to talk. The snake suggested that Adam and Eve were being deceived and held back by the Elohim (God). And so, after seeing the fruit of the "tree of the knowledge of good and evil" was attractive (pleasant to the eyes); it was good, and an excellent quality (good for food); and its clinching appeal - "a tree to be desired to make one wise" (the pride of life. Paul tells us in Philippians 2 that Adam and Eve grasped for equality with God - which thing our Lord Jesus Christ never did when tempted. The Apostle John tells us in his first letter chapter 2verses15-17 that all temptation and sin fall in one or more of these categories. Having sinned they were expelled from the garden; James tells us in chapter 1 the process of sin within every human mind - verses 13-15. Having disobeyed God, He the Almighty must in justice enforce the law He had given. Adam and Eve now had the sentence of death activated within them - this is called "mortality". What was possible before transgressing was now "a law within them" (Romans 7verses21-25) - i.e. now an inevitability. The human race now found that from this point forward all descendants from the first human parents found that sin cannot be overcome in their lives every time that each of us is subjected to temptation - Romans 6 tells us that they were bond slaves to sin. It required God to produce a Saviour, His Son, who although bearing the bias to sin within himself; this being the entail of the effects of Adam and Eve's first sin, would himself be sinless - though Jesus was of our identical nature (Hebrews 2verses12-18.

Welcome to the start of a new year. When the Jewish people celebrate the Passover they say, "Next year in Jerusalem". May this year see the Messiah's second coming. The Old Testament is approximately twice the length of the New Testament; and, for that reason two portions of Scripture are taken from it daily. The plan we follow with the Bible readings comments is designed to complete the reading of the Old Testament once, and the New Testament twice, in the course of 12 months. We begin at the beginning, which is the meaning of "Genesis". It is not a scientific account of our origins - though it is 100% scientifically accurate as it is an infallible and inspired record from our Omnipotent Creator. At times some people are confused as to whether the Genesis account is literal - i.e. real - or a parable. Unquestionably the answer is it is both. Although it is not written to be a scientific textbook; it is 100% accurate scientifically and describes events that did happen. It tells us why we are here; and that God put us on earth for a purpose - "to fill the earth with His glory" (Numbers 14verses21; cp Genesis 1verses26). Genesis 1 describes 6 days of evening/morning duration. The Hebrew day begins at sundown and ends 24 hours later. Days 1-3 show a pattern - light; water; life - a pattern repeated in days 4-6. Chapter 2 tells us that God rested from His creative work on day 7 - the Sabbath. And in the Hebrew text for days 1-6 this pattern is followed - "there was a day, one ... two...right through to six". Genesis 1verses26 tells us that the Almighty's purpose was to fill the earth with people in whom the divine likeness - or character - would be seen cp also Psalm 8verses1-9. The Sabbath is the first day to have a name, which is emblematic of the Sabbath rest of the kingdom age (Hebrews 4verses8-11). Chapter 2 focuses more on the formation of Eve from Adam's side as the first marriage, which typifies Christ and his bride (the ecclesia - Ephesians 5verses22-33). Additional useful information is that the word translated as "creature" AV is consistently the Hebrew word 'nephesh' elsewhere translated throughout the Old Testament as "soul". Once the divine spirit in the form of breath is found within any creature it becomes nephesh chaim, or breath of life, which the LORD Good breathed into Adam in chapter 2verses7. Adam was a whole being and although like his animal counterparts of the dust he was brought to life directly by the Almighty breathing the spirit - or life-giving breath into him. This indicates the LORD God's intention to have a close relationship with His human creatures.

If the example of pride presented in the hippopotamus repulsed us, far worse is Leviathan in chapter 41. He is the Nile crocodile, and is described as, "king over all the children of pride". Our Sovereign challenges Jobverses Try to subject and bring the crocodile under control. You can't do it with force; nor can you try to do it with persuasive words. Can you turn him into a servant, or make him an object of entertainment? In struggling with a crocodile, you will find that you have an impossible task on your hands. His hide and armour exceed that of the hippo. When he rages he is fierce beyond imagination. He scoffs all attempts to subdue him. Metal weapons, arrows and sling stones are futile against him. There is not his like upon earth. And it is with "him" that we must struggle on a daily basis. And without resisting him, i.e. our own human pride we cannot allow God's Word to humble us; in order that we may be able to draw near to our Creator King. In verses 1-6 of chapter 42 Job confesses his weakness and seeks for forgiveness. In verse 2 Job acknowledges, finally, the LORD's power and right to do with us as He wishes. The suffering servant's understanding of the Almighty has gone from a theoretical and untried faith to a faith that now entirety trusts his Maker, himself having been purged by his trials. Job had been proud of his relationship with the Almighty and yet he failed to understand God's right to test and prove him. Job had previously challenged God but now recognises his shortcomings. At last Job now has understanding of the infinite and uncreated power of the universe. In abject humility Job bows in reverence before his Sovereign. Verses 7-9 tell of Yahweh's rebuke of Job's 3 friends. The absence of Elihu from this group tells us that God is not displeased with him. The friends are told to offer sacrifices and seek for Job's intercession. Verses 10-17 explain that once Job had prayed for his friends God restored Job's losses twofold - except for his family; the presumption being that his lost family will be restored to Job in the Kingdom Age. Read aloud and slowly James 5verses11. Pause and ponder the principal lesson learned.

In chapter 40 the Almighty continues His challenge to Job. In verse 1 the LORD accuses Job of being a faultfinder without a cause. From verses 2-5 Job acknowledges his fault and promises that he will listen   in silence. Again, out of the whirlwind His Sovereign says, dress like a man in a contest and answer if you're able. Begin by considering the awesome majesty of the Almighty. God will abase all who are lifted up in pride. From verses 15-24 Job's attention is drawn to the wild river ox - most likely the hippopotamus. The hippo symbolises untameable human pride. Of all our ugly lusts pride is the worst. It creates a mighty chasm between ourselves and our Creator. The hippo has an incredible girth and a great appetite for procreation. He has the tiniest tail, yet waves it as though it's a mighty cedar - in our pride the easiest person to deceive Is ourself. The hippo's hide is legendarily tough - meaning that he is immune to correction. The hippo luxuriates in the filthiest parts of the river. Hippos kill more people in the rivers they inhabit than any other creatures of those habitats. Malachi 2verses1-9 contain a rebuke to the priests for a failure to fulfil the commission of their Sovereign. The responsibility of priests is to lead the nation in their reverence for Yahweh. The priests were to comprehend God's Word, break it small and dispense it to the people. They were the LORD's "messengers" - but they had failed in their duty. They bore no resemblance to Phinehas, from the tribe of Levi, who demonstrated his loyalty to His Sovereign; even at the great cost of slaying the guilty, even his own relatives. And for that reverence of the Almighty, God made a covenant with Phinehas of an everlasting priesthood - Phinehas will be among the immortal priests in Messiah's kingdom. Contrary to Phinehas' example the priests of the prophet's era were corrupt and partial. From verse 10 to the end of the chapter the prophet tells of one of the great abuses of that epoch - Jews were divorcing their covenant wives to marry younger, attractive Gentile brides - which was forbidden by God (compare Nehemiah 13, which describes the same evils of that era). The prophet, on God's behalf, upbraided them for their failure to uphold their Father's covenant. Verse 11 spells out the problem; in marrying these foreign wives they were in effect joining themselves to the foreign god. So, the person bringing an offering, while committing this evil, was an unacceptable hypocrite. The refused and rejected Jewish wives were imploring Yahweh to put an end to this evil. Examine your attitude towards your wife, says the prophet; and see that your own lustful and covetous motives cause you to be faithful to your marriage covenant which was made with your Sovereign as your witness. In the beginning, Genesis 2, the LORD made man and woman one by His creative act and His accompanying declarationverses read Genesis 2verses20-25. True marriage typifies the union of Christ and his brideverses Ephesians 5verses22-33. The oneness of husband and wife must be in thinking, even more than by just a physical union (which is characteristic of the lower created beings). The Almighty still had uncalled on reserves of power, but He is zealous over the faithfulness of His peopleverses James 4verses4-10. Your actions and callous disregard for your covenant wives and for the law of your God is tiresome to Him, says the prophet.

In chapter 39 of Job the Almighty continues challenging Job to reply if he has any understanding of the marvels of creation put before him. The first example questions whether Job knows the gestation cycle of the wild goats. Then why is the wild donkey so free and stubborn? Or can you domesticate the wild ox? Despite its strength the ostrich is completely lacking in understanding for the care of its own. God has created all these animals, that we as humans, may learn care and responsibility. The warhorse shows no fear of the battle; on the contrary, he relishes it. Do you understand the marvels of flight and motherhood among the birds of prey? What incredible eyesight the eagle has. The eagle becomes symbolic of divine wisdom and perception. Despite the ruthlessness of his ways, the eagle is a tender provider for its young (unlike our stupid ostrich).

Yahweh puts before Job in chapter 38, several of His mighty creative acts and dares the patriarch to explain how his Sovereign performed these marvels. Tell me about the foundations of the earth, if you can. Modern science has some ideas related to our earth's core; however, some hypotheses still surround certain aspects of this. Job is told that the creative work was the task of the angels - the sons of God. What about assigning the sea its boundaries? Or can you explain the delicate balance of the clouds and the water cycle? What do you make of the abundant riches of the oceans? Can you explain the relationship between light and darkness? Do you, Job, understand the treasures of the snow? There are no two snowflakes which are identical - yet every one of them is a perfect prismatic hexagon. The elements, says the Almighty, are My armoury prepared for the day of battle. What about the rain and dew, and My care for all creatures great and small - can you comprehend? Don't you understand that water is a unique liquid whose density decreases when frozen? By this means I preserve the life of fish and other creatures living in frigid climates. Do you understand the circuits of the constellations of Pleiades (the seven sisters), or Orion (heaven's giant)? What about Ursa Major (the giant bear - perhaps the first inference in the Bible of Russia)? The list of nature's inexplicable marvels goes on. The wisdom is evident. And with the psalmist (and no doubt also the dazed and amazed Job) we declare, "In wisdom (God) You made them all".

The Life Of Christ # 116 The Feast of Dedication pt 2 by John Martin

Elihu concludes his speech in Job 37 by proclaiming the majesty of the Almighty. The final speeches of the book are delivered by our Sovereign God. And so, in a sense, Elihu is God's forerunner just as John the Baptist was of our Lord Jesus Christ as Malachi 3 prophesied he would so do. In the final chapter Job is asked by the Almighty to make intercession in prayer for his 3 friends. As no such intercession is requested for Elihu it is reasonable to conclude that Yahweh had accepted what Elihu had said. Like with Moses and Elijah at Mount Sinai, so did the LORD precede His speech with an awesome display of His might - on this occasion "out of the whirlwind'. The whirlwind is a symbol of warfare in the Bible - indicating there is a divine warfare in the book Job - between the Almighty against sin and self- righteousness. Elihu outlined the majestic power revealed in the thunder (spoken of in the Psalms as, "the voice of Yahweh of") and in the lightning and the interplay between these two momentous forces. Verse 6 says that the snow falls at the Almighty's command. Mankind and all creatures are cowed by His awesome power. And what God does is according to His will and He does it purposefully. How can you even understand such power, let alone think you can challenge the LORD? Humble yourself and learn from Him. Show reverential fear and cease from your conceit. The same words must be acknowledged by us and responded to by the way in which we live.

In Job chapter 35 Elihu condemns Job. If we wonder about whether Elihu is a brash upstart, or whether he is a faithful younger man whose speech demonstrates the wisdom of God - this chapter provides us with the answer to that puzzle. And the answer is that the second statement represents Elihu's character. Every accusation against Job, which Elihu makes, is endorsed by the Almighty in His final speeches. Elihu contests that whether you're right, or whether you sin, God is no way advantaged. However, the LORD is pleased with children whose pleasure it is to please Him. You, Job, he says must see that you are just an insignificant speck of dust. The creature cries out because of pain and suffering, but so infrequently turns to God for His love and support (Romans 8verses18-25). Surely God made us to be more than brute beasts (Ecclesiastes 3verses17-22). Job, wake up to yourself and order your speech aright before your Sovereign. In order to put things in their true perspective, for Job and his friends, in chapter 36 Elihu extols the virtues and might of our Creator. Be patient and listen, Elihu urges them. I will speak in truth and wisdom he declares. It is not the intention of the Almighty to inflict endless sufferings on the wicked (see Hebrews 12verses5-11). He is, in His wisdom, crying to the sons of men, "Repent, turn to Me and be saved". Don't go to the grave in anger and vexation. It's so easy to judge the wicked and at the same time fail to see our own failures. Learn from failure and in all things praise and thank the Almighty. Consider the magnificence of His wisdom - all creation shouts, "In wisdom You have made us".

Having rebuked Job's 3 friends in chapter 32, Elihu turns his focus to rebuking Job in chapter 33. Elihu says that he is not influenced by important people, but he will speak the truth as it is. Nor will he be intimidated by older men. Elihu acknowledges that his respect for the Almighty will temper his response. Elihu declares that his words are acceptable before God and like those engaging in the debate, he "too was pinched off from the clay" (verse 6 ESV). Don't be frightened by what I say. He condemns Job's self- vindication and the idea that the Almighty has chosen to be Job's adversary. You, Job he says, have no right to question the LORD's right to do as He pleases. Humble yourself, listen with respect to Yahweh, is the course I recommend that you adopt, Job. What you have suffered gives you time for reflection. Job you need a mediator to speak on your behalf, as your accusations against your Maker are improper. When you understand the redemptive work of God you will receive God's mercy and will be delivered from a permanent place in the grave. But, Job, it requires your humble pleas in prayer to your Creator. Please hearken to my words Job, for my intent is to vindicate you. And I am sure my words are wise.

Zechariah 8 gives us a beautiful picture of a Jerusalem - whose name means "frame, or city of peace". The chapter portrays a Jerusalem at rest, and blessed by Messiah's tranquil rule. What a contrast to the city we now see. Zion will be the head, as the metropolis, of the Lord Jesus Christ's kingdom embracing all nations in the rejuvenated and new earth, as fulfilling the terms of the promise made to Abraham (Genesis 12verses1-3; Romans 4verses13; Jeremiah 3verses15-17). The chastisement of the LORD has passed and Zion's time to be favoured is in its ascendancy (Psalm 102verses13). No longer is the city the scene of war and hostility; it is rather a haven for children and elderly citizens. And the city which had so often been the place of treachery and falsity toward its God, will be become a haven for justice, mercy and truth. The economic hardships of the present citizens would be reversed on their returning to their LORD. This prosperity would be magnified in Messiah's kingdom. The way to blessings is revealed in verse 16 - i.e. to speak truth to one another (Paul says the same in Ephesians 4verses25). To behave uprightly towards each other; hating everything that is false in word and deed, as verse 17 declares. Read verses 20-23 aloud slowly, and pause and ponder. These verses speak of the elevated status of the Jew in Messiah's kingdom. What a contrast to the current despised position of Jews.

n chapters 29 and 30 Job summarised his defence to his friends; before making his final appeal in chapter 31. In the opening verses of chapter 29 Job reflected on former years when everything was well and then all blessed him, including the Almighty. He reminisces about his lost family. As well as the message, let us enjoy the majestic and poetic language in this part of Scripture. At that time all strata within his society were in awe of him, and showed their respect in his presence. The poor and the disabled blessed his care and charity. He was the protector of the oppressed and the vanquisher of all those who sought self-advancement at the cost of the downtrodden. People waited for his words of wisdom and acted upon his counsel. Chapter 30 muses on the sad and sorry state he was in now. The young, who were not suitable enough to look after Job's dogs, disdained and scorned him. The lazy sloths of the past now looked down on Job. That rabble made up hurtful ditties and songs about the once respected elder. In addition, the mental torment from which Job suffered was made worse by his intense physical struggles. Any cry for support was met by ignoring him, or, even worse, by turning their backs on him. Job tells of his pain and exclusion from human company. The wild animals were his companions and their doleful cries his music.

We are told in 2 Timothy 3verses16 that "all Scripture has been breathed out by God". This includes the book of Revelation which is known in the Greek as 'the Apocalypse'. It was as its first verse tells us given to the Lord Jesus Christ by his Father who showed our Lord the matters "revealed" in that book. But having received those wonderful matters Jesus 'reveals' those matters via his angel through John the Apostle to all believers. In Revelation we have the only book in the Bible directly given to believers by the Lord Jesus Christ (1verses1) and encompassing blessings on the diligent readers (v3). It contains letters of advice in chapters 2-3 from the Lord which are portrayed in the opening vision of 1verses9-20,. Each of the seven ecclesias in Turkey are told what's wrong with their attitude, and also they receive commendation for their successes. The 7 letters all emphasise faithful works that are necessary to please our Father and His Son. These works are seen in the faithful lives of His children as they strive to walk to the Father's kingdom guided daily by the energy drawn from the love of the Father and His Son and given to us through the Word of the Almighty. From this amalgam of instructions, we are to be both warned and encouraged; in order for us to, like our Lord 'overcome' the world (2verses26-27) and so be blessed to inherit the Kingdom. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

The Life Of Christ # 115 The Feast of Dedication by John Martin

In Job 25 we have Bildad's third round of argument. His contention is the impossibility of humans being righteous before the Almighty. And at one level this is absolutely true. There is none righteous, no not one (Romans 3verses9-11); but the same chapter in Romans tells of a righteousness from God. Remember, we were already told, in the 1st chapter of the book, that Job was an upright man - 1verses1. Bildad's reckoning was still coming from the viewpoint that since Job was suffering, it was because of Job's evil deeds. Bildad speaks of the immense power of our Sovereign. God's armies are beyond man's capacity to challenge. The heavenly bodies of the moon and stars, he argues are flawed. And the least of the Creator's works is this maggot called man. Job's reply in chapter 26 is to firstly acknowledge the magnitude of the Almighty's power. And that it's beyond man's reach to understand. In verses 2-4 Job tells of his aid to the needy and asks his friends to examine themselves by way of comparison. Then Job majestically outlines the wondrous might and activities of his Creator. Yahweh controls the wind, the sea and the waves in their circuits. And we frail humans just perceive a whisper of His grandeur. Job continues in chapter 27 by stating that, despite his suffering, he will steadfastly cling to his integrity. The suffering servant contends that the Almighty has removed Job's natural rights. Verse 3 tells us that our life is dependent on the spirit of the Almighty, being present in our nostrils and sustaining our breath. Man has no immortal soul. No matter what befalls me in life, Job says, I will remain steadfast. The LORD's suffering servant invites his friends to look at the flourishing of the wicked and their families too in verses 13-17. What we receive in life is not necessarily a reflection of our relationship to our Sovereign. But ultimately the wicked will be removed from the earth (Psalm 37verses1-11 read slowly. Pause and ponder.) Chapters 2 and 3 of Zechariah contain the next two visions, which were both relevant in the prophet's era and symbolic of the kingdom age under the Lord Jesus Christ. The measuring line of chapter 2 speaks of the restoration of Jerusalem subsequent to the judgement that would soon overtake it. But, given the fact that the exiles had returned, and were in the process of rebuilding, it has to incorporate a future Messianic application. Verse 4 speaks of the future blessing of a peaceful and restored Zion. Verse 5 tells us that the pillar of fire which protected the fleeing Israelites at the time of the Exodus - symbolising God's presence - will once again defend and glorify His nation shortly. Let the nations, who have in the past attacked Israel and will once more do so in the near future, know that anyone touching God's people is irritating the pupil of His eye. The daughter of Zion will, verse 10, rejoice when Yahweh in the person of His Son permanently dwells in Jerusalem (Joel 3verses17-21; Isaiah 2verses1-4; 52; Jeremiah 3verses17; Zechariah 14verses8 to the end). The vision concludes with a command to maintain reverential awe and silence before the Omnipotent Creator (see Habakkuk 2verses20). Chapter 3 is the vision of Joshua the high priest in filthy clothes working in the rebuilding of Zion's ruins. It is precisely what Jesus our Lord did. He partook of our fallen   nature in order to restore and save us (Hebrews 2verses14-18). The high priest was opposed by the Samaritans, as was our Lord by the Jewish rulers and the antagonistic burden of the human nature which he bore. But having faithfully completed the assigned work the Son of God is now seen clothed with glorious immortality (Psalm 45verses1-8). Joshua fulfilled this type by way of this enacted parable. Those that stood by were the angelic host whose nature was that of the Father and which our Lord now has having vanquished sin and death. This too is our hope as Luke 20verses35-36 informs us. In verse 6 of Zechariah 3 Joshua is charged to continue walking in the ways of God, in order that he might forever dwell in Yahweh's courts as Psalm 23verses6 promised. The seven eyes of the vision speak of the LORD's omniscience - nothing can be hidden from our All-seeing God. And the engraved signet speaks of the "character" (the Greek word for engraving of a seal which is used in Hebrews 1verses1-5) of the incomparable Son of God. And through the work God accomplished in His Son sin has been taken away by the offering of our Lord Jesus. Jude tells us that he is the brother of James. In James' letter he says to us that he is the Lord Jesus Christ's brother (actually half-brother - for Mary was their mother see Mark 3verses31-35; and 6verses3). Joseph was the father of James and Jude. Mary was, contrary to orthodox teaching, not a perpetual virgin. After Jesus was born Joseph had a normal marital relationship with Mary (see Matthew 1verses23-25) and had an additional 3 sons and at least 2 unnamed daughters. Unlike his siblings Jesus was conceived by the power of God - the Holy Spirit (Luke 1verses30-35). The letter of Jude deals with the same issues as 2 Peter 2 - the problems created by the false teachers. The letter was written about 65 AD, by which time the departures in teaching from the true faith were multiplying. Jude had set out with the purpose of writing a letter to encourage his readers in their shared faith. But due to the pressing problems created by the errorists Jude was diverted to write about the need to continue in the faith and to strenuously resist the errorists. Verses 3-16 tell us that there will always be opposition from false brethren. Jude cites 5 Scriptural historical examples. These demonstrate God's dealings with the false leaders and, inferentially show the same point as 2 Peter 2 i.e. that Yahweh knows how to preserve and deliver the righteous. The first example was from the time of the wilderness wanderings, when Korah, Dathan and Abiram attempted to usurp the authority of Moses and Aaron. Numbers 16 gives details of that rebellion. The second example is the destruction of Sodom and deliverance of righteous Lot found in Genesis 19. The third example is that of the insatiable covetousness of Balaam, which not only destroyed himself but, also, many Israelites at the border of the Promised Land. These events are outlined in Numbers chapters 22-25. Example 4 related to the Samaritan opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem and is outlined in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. The Samaritans falsely claimed a religious affinity with the God of Israel and they contended with chosen people. The 5th example is that of powerful and blasphemous Lamech in his attempt to eradicate Enoch. Genesis 4 shows us that only 7 generations from Adam wicked and godless men were opposing the way of God. Note in the AV that "ungodly" is used 7 times. Contrast Psalm 1, which in the Hebrew Bible is attributed to Enoch. Read aloud slowly. Pause and ponder. Verses 12-13 are a series of metaphors which expose the uselessness and dangers of all false teachers. The chapter concludes with a call to stand steadfast for the faith. The events overtaking the ecclesias had been prophesied by the Apostles. Scripture was being fulfilled before their eyes. Their part was to continue to faithfully follow their Lord Jesus Christ. So too must we. Any who become defiled by the influence of the false teachers are like a stick in the fire that needs to be swiftly plucked from the fire and extinguished. Let's pause and slowly read aloud and ponder the closing doxology of verses 24-25, "Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God, our Saviour, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen." ESV Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Job's reply to Eliphaz' accusations is found in chapters 23 and 24, where Job asks, "Where is God when the righteous need Him?". Job remains downcast because of his health and the constant carping criticism of his friends. These verbal attacks have, Job says, become unbearable. If only I could talk with God and find some answers. Job seeks for a mediator who could take his cause to the Almighty. Job saw himself in an impossible position and needing the "goel" (near kinsman to be his 'daysman'). Job knew that in being tried he would eventually emerge as purified gold (see Malachi 3verses3). Job was confident that he had lived an upright life before his Maker. The righteousness and rectitude of God was awesome to Job. Let us show the same profound respect to the Almighty. Zechariah was, together with Haggai, the prophet Yahweh had stirred up in 519-517 BC to encourage the returned exiles to resume the rebuilding of the Temple. Zechariah's name means "Yahweh has remembered" i.e. His covenant with His people the seed of Abraham. The fathers of the exiled had been chastised for turning away from their Sovereign. The theme is similar to that of Haggai, which is "Consider (or set your heart to thinking of) your ways (experiences). Learn from what you have experienced. Zechariah's message is expressed in 1verses3-6, "Return to me ... be not like your fathers". The first vision of the prophet is found in chapter 1 verses 7-17 and is, "The vision of the Horseman". The first horseman was on a red horse, since he had executed Yahweh's judgments in the earth; just like the second horseman in Revelation 6 was red as he had copiously shed blood. There were in Zechariah's opening vision white- and sorrel-coloured horses. The man among the myrtle trees, which trees commonly bloomed at the Feast of Booths - Tabernacles - and were used during the feast - was the angel of the LORD (verse 11). This festival was held in the 7th month. The first vision began on the 8th month so the myrtles were in full bloom and the feast had recently been kept. The man, who is the subject of the prophecy, is the Lord Jesus Christ and his saints - fellow believers. The vision is of the kingdom age of which Isaiah declares, "When Thy judgments are in the earth, then will the inhabitants learn righteousness" (26verses9). This is why the earth in the vision is said to be at rest and quiet. For 70 years the nation of Judah had experienced the chastising hand of God. Zion, Jerusalem, had been her Husband's bride. Yahweh had shown great zeal (jealousy) for His bride just as Christ is for his bride - we believers. 2 Corinthians 11verses1-6, which verses tell us the same message. The prophet Zechariah says that the nations who had brought God's punishment on Judah had been overzealous in performing this recompense. So, the Almighty would punish those nations, such as Babylon, which had fallen to the Persian power a mere 20 years earlier. But now Judah's God had shown His people mercy, favour and compassion. The LORD has begun to do in our time (Psalm 102verses13-16). The measuring line of restoration and rebuilding will in the near future be stretched over Jerusalem, as it was in the prophet's days. Chapter 1verses18-21 outlines the second vision of the 4 horns and the 4 craftsmen - once again the use of cherubic symbols speaking of the Lord Jesus Christ and those believing in him. The horns speak of a destroying power that will be unleashed against the enemies of the LORD. These horns will wreak judgement upon the evils of this world (see Acts 17verses30-31), Israel's king will through these craftsmen rebuild this earth and fashion it to the honour and glory of the Lord God Almighty. In a 3-volume exposition of the book of Revelation a Christadelphian author, by the name of John Thomas, showed in volume 1 that the symbolism of Revelation can only be understood by a consistent application of those symbols in the Old Testament. He also said that the prophecy of Zechariah contains more of these symbols than any other OT writing. 2nd and 3rd John are short personal letters written fairly close to each other, around 95-96 AD. The first of these letters being to a beloved friend termed "the elect (or chosen by God) lady". The aged Apostle had a deep love for this sister because of her hospitality and faithfulness. His salutations of, "Grace, mercy and peace" come from a mature faith and are the same as those of the Apostle Paul to Timothy and Titus; the so called "Pastoral letters". Verses 4-11 express John's great joy that this wonderful sister's children had   chosen to walk in the Truth. John reiterates the new command, "to walk in love"; frequently spoken of in his gospel account and first letter. He also warns of the false teachers (antichrists) mentioned at length in his first letter. The woman and her faithful family - the ecclesia - must abide in the true teaching of the Father and His Beloved Son. Anyone walking contrary to that Truth, in behaviour or doctrine, was to be forbidden the fellowship of the saints. John's final greetings, of verses 12-13, express his hope of catching up with the elect lady face to face, rather than through a letter. 3rd John was written to a friend who had often been the old Apostle's host - Gaius - who was deeply "loved in the Lord". This brother was a Thessalonian, who had been converted to the Truth by the Apostle Paul. Verses 5-12 speak of the supporters of ecclesial work and others who were the opponents - the enemies of the Faith. Gaius and those like him had shown great hospitality to visitors, who have preached the Gospel. Support for such workers was commanded by our Lord Jesus Christ when he sent forth the 72 in Luke 10. Those of us who cannot personally go into the mission fields have a responsibility to support both in prayer and financially those who undertake the Great Commission i.e. the taking the Gospel to the world (Matthew 28). John says that those who do so have become fellow helpers of the Truth. The Apostle warns his readers of being a puffed up, self-important errorist, who not only dragged down the faithful, but would take an aggressive stand against all who, like the Apostle John, would take a stand for truth and moral uprightness. Don't be imitators of the evil, but only of the true (see Ephesians 5verses1-21). In his final greetings the Apostle speaks of his desire to spend time with the faithful ecclesia with Gaius in a face-to- face context, rather than via letter. Peace will be with the faithful. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Job chapter 22 resumes with the third round of debate which is commenced by Eliphaz. His contention is that Job's wickedness is great. Eliphaz says that humans are not able to do anything that profits God, but at least they should show respect by admitting their wicked ways. He says, "Are you, Job? Job why aren't you fearful to enter a contest with the Almighty?" Eliphaz next lays a series of accusations against Jobverses including not sustaining the starving; sending widows away with any help. This is why you now suffer. Consider Yahweh's greatness and capacity to behold all your evil ways. Return to the just ways Eliphaz counsels. By reaching agreement with your Maker, you will have peace and your former prosperity will be restored (of course Eliphaz' reasoning is unsound and based on the false teaching of exact retribution). Humble yourself, he argues, and submit to your Creator. Though Eliphaz's accusations against Job are wrong we must humble ourselves before the Almightyverses James 4verses8-10; 1 Peter 5verses5-7. We come to the short prophecy of Haggai, whose name means "the festive one". Haggai together with Zechariah prophesied over a short period of 27 months (in the second to the fourth years of Darius) encouraging the returned Exiles to resume the rebuilding of the Temple, which had ceased about BC 521 when the Persian king Artaxerxes had been stirred up by Samaritan and Arabian opposition to the rebuilding project. The background to this time can be found in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. The two prophets were themselves energised by the LORD to turn the minds of the people from concentrating on building their own homes to refocusing on Yahweh's house. Haggai prophesied over a 5 month and 3-day period around BC 519. The prophet was the son of the Governor - Zerubbabel, whose name means "a shoot out of Babylon". Zerubbabel typifies the Lord Jesus Christ who is described in Isaiah 11verses1 as "a shoot from the stump of Jesse"; and in Revelation 22verses16 as "the root and the offspring of David". In verse 4 the prophet upbraids the nation for their self-interest and preoccupation with their own houses. The theme of the book is stated in chapter 1verses5verses "Consider - Hebrew 'set your mind' - on your ways" (repeated in 1verses15; 2verses7, 18). Rotherham translates this phrase asverses "Apply your heart to your own experience". We would say in modern English, "think very carefully about what you are doing. It was to be for them, as it ought always needs to be so for us, a time for self-examination. They had sown much seed in   expectation of a large harvest, but since their attitude was wrong God had greatly diminished their harvest. The clothing which they wore could not keep them warm. It was a time of rampant inflation described poetically by the metaphor of the worker placing his money in a bag with holes. As soon as the money went into the bag it was gone (how much is this like our experiences now). Don't worry about your houses, says the prophet, just go to the mountains with an axe to cut wood for My house (speaking of Yahweh's Temple). Whatever house you build will give Me pleasure and I will glorify it. I will not cease chastising you until you learn my ways, says your God. And so, a drought came on the whole land affecting both people and animals. Verses 12-15 record that the nation responded to the rebuke with actions which brought blessings. In chapter 2verses1-9 we have the coming glory of this Temple, which they were now building, as emblematic of the glorious Temple to be built in Jerusalem by our Lord Jesus Christ soon. We are told in Ezra that when the Temple of the returned exiles was completed there were two different reactionsverses 1) the young rejoiced to see a Temple for the first time in their life; 2) the old cried seeing the new Temple as a pitiful shadow of Solomon's. Comparisons are always odious and we must rejoice in whatever blessings our Sovereign gives to His children. It was, said by the prophet Zechariah that now is "A day of small things" - Zechariah 4verses8-10. Our God, through the prophet, speaks of the brilliance of the glory of the coming Age of Messiah. Haggai says that God's acceptance and glorification of this house, which was now built, would exceed that of Solomon's Temple and prefigures that of the kingdom to come (compare Hebrews 12verses25-27). The shaking and removal of the Mosaic heavens was to occur at the hands of Rome in 70 AD (Hebrews 1verses10-12). The shaken sea speaks of the Gentile nations and the dry land of eretz Israel. The result of this great geopolitical earthquake will be the establishment of Messiah's kingdom and a blessed earth at last at peace. Verses 10-19 speak of blessings to a humble and repentant nation. Mosaic Law defilement was transmitted and so we must act carefully and choose wisely in our associations with others since the Proverbs sayverses "Bad company corrupts good morals". For the same reason, although holiness is not transferable, we need to meet together with those who encourage us in God's Word and ways (Hebrews 10verses23-25). We all need to take heed and "Consider our ways". Zerubbabel in his faithfulness to his LORD is compared to a signet ring, whose engravings show the character of its owner (verses 20-23; see also Zechariah 3verses5-10). And in this the Governor - Zerubbabel - typifies the Lord Jesus Christ and his great work for the LORD's people (Hebrews 1verses1-4). In 1 John 5verses1-5 we are told the source of overcoming the world - by the faith of the son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. And by that faith I live. An early Christadelphian writer, John Thomas said, that this was by a faith, which works by love and purifiers the soul (life). John Thomas was alluding to the early verses of Galatians 5. The Apostle John tells us that such a belief is evidence of our divine begetting. And, for us, it is the assurance ("by this we know") that God is with us. We can be more than conquerors through Him who loves us (Romans 8). The work, spoken of in chapter 2, is not about our love, but we do love the Father with all of our heart. And this love of the Father which impels us was the motive force of the life of the Son of God. Read Romans 8verses31-39 slowly and pause and ponder. Verses 6-12 provide testimony concerning the Son of God. Our Lord Jesus who came by water and blood - the water in which he was immersed at his baptism and the water of the Word of God with which his mind was saturated; and the blood of his sacrificial offering of himself. This offering was sanctified by the Word of God and prayer and pleased his Father. John is alluding to his witnessing of the crucifixion (John 19verses34-37). Verse 7 from the ESV reads, and I quote in full, "For there are three that testifyverses". Most of the better translations recognise the insertion into the text of additional words which aren't found in most of the older manuscripts. The additional words used in the KJV (and some other versions are admitted by most modern translations to be spurious and added by a Jesuit monk, Immanuel Tapsensis). Verse 8 identifies the three witnesses to our Lord's divine Sonship as - the Spirit, the water and the blood. Under the law at least two corroborating witnesses were needed to determine truth. John affirms total agreement among these witnesses. Additionally, God bore testimony, Matthew 3verses15-17, to His Son. And only in His Son, and through His Son's work, we have life. From verses 13-21 the beloved disciple John has written these things for our assurance ("that we may know"). We have known and believed upon the name above every name (Philippians 2verses9-11), and the only name in which there is salvation (Acts 4verses12). And through continuance in this Name salvation is assured. John repeats that the Father's ear is ever open to His children's pleas. Verses 16-17 reiterates that when we love the brethren we will help them (as they will likewise help us) when we stumble (Galatians 6verses1-5). Such advice and correction will prevent rejection at the coming judgment of our Lord Jesus Christ. But, for the habitual and lawless sinner, who has abandoned any attempt to continue walking in the light there remains "no offering for sin" (Hebrews 10verses26-39). Being begotten by God, through His Word (1 Peter 1verses22-25), we overcome in faith and walk in   the way of His commandments. The world and its ways allure, but cannot conquer us. Finally, says John, "Keep yourself from idols" - a specific allusion to the Ten Commandments (especially numbers 1 and 10 which bookend all the others). Keeping ourselves from idols is about the tendency within our human nature to always look after ourselves before applying ourselves to living according to the ways of our Almighty Father. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Job replies in chapter 21 that the wicked do prosper. You must listen before you mock me, Job says. Are you not repulsed by my appearance and sickness? Consider the evidence around you. Many wicked prosper into an untroubled old age. The families of the wicked live in peace; their farms and livestock thrive. The evil feast joyfully until they go to their grave (Sheol). These people take no notice of the Almighty and scorn the Almighty without consequences. The time for dealing with the evil will come; maybe trouble will come on their descendants. The LORD does not seem to visit the wicked's evil with His chastisement. Evil people are just as likely to prosper as to suffer. Your thoughts, my friends, are clearly known to me and are wrong. Stop being false and refrain from your hypocritical attempts to comfort me. We need to cease from judging others and start treating others with kindness and respect. Zephaniah 3 deals with judgement on Jerusalem and all nations. Verses 1-8 deal with imminent impending calamity for Jerusalem (in the prophet's day); and subsequently soon at Armageddon. Armageddon (WW 3) will involve all nations (Joel 3; Zechariah 14; and Revelation 16). Verses 9-13 describe the conversion of the nations in the aftermath of Armageddon. Verses 14-20 tell of the joy associated with Israel's regathering, restoration and conversion (compare Romans 11verses11-24). The chapter begins with a denouncement of Jerusalem as a rebellious and unheeding city. It was a city that had not responded to Yahweh's chastisement. The rot began with the leaders of the nation - the rot starts with the princes and the priests as the people desired rulers like themselvesverses Hosea 4verses1-9. The Almighty was dwelling in that city and had set before them His righteous ways. They had not heeded His prophetic Word, which had predicted the overthrow of surrounding kingdoms. Israel remained unconcerned despite seeing the fulfilment of the words of the prophets. Verses 8 speaks of God's wrath being poured upon all nations (see Joel 3verses1-16). Verse 9 tells of all nations being turned to a pure tongue (most likely Hebrew - as was probably the language prior to the confusion of tongues that occurred with the Tower of Babel; Genesis 11verses1-9). The nations then serve the LORD with one consent (Hebrew "shoulder"; the bearing of the burden and accepting the message coming from the capital city, Zion (Jerusalem see Isaiah 2verses1-5; 9verses6-7). Worshippers will come from the entire world to Jerusalem (Jeremiah 3verses16-18; Zechariah 14verses26-21). Note that the last phrase, "and none shall make them afraid" is a citation from Micah 4verses4 (which is what Isaiah 2 says). The rejoicing of Zion's daughter is again an echo from the servant prophecies in Isaiah (52verses7; note the context verses 1-12; and the restoration will be the work of the Messiah, our Lord Jesus Christ 52verses13-53verses12). Verse 17 of Zephaniah 3 speaks of Yahweh dwelling in the midst of His people (Joel 3verses17-21). This will be through His Son and the saints in Christ Jesus - Zechariah 14verses1-9. The oppressors of God's people will be eradicated. Israel will be a "praise and a joy in all the earth" (see Zechariah 8verses20-23). God willing let's strive to please our Father and His glorious Son by the way we live now. Verses 1-10 of 1 John 3 elaborate on God's love. The beloved Apostle invites his readers to behold the extent and greatness of the Father's love. Our Sovereign has chosen to condescend and to adopt us as His children. We have entered His family at the immense cost of the sacrifice of His beloved Son. John tells his hearers that they have barely begun conceiving the depth of that love, which will be further understood when our Lord Jesus Christ returns. An appreciation of that love has a purifying effect on the disciple's life. But a failure to understand the importance of Christ's laying down of his life must impel the believer to turn away from loose living (which leads to a lost life). It is not the sin of weakness due to the frailty of our nature, but rather the of abandonment to sin (i.e. living habitually for sin), that concerns the Apostle. John has addressed the weakness of human nature in his first two chapters. To continue practising sin is to deny the grace of the Father and the great price that was paid for our redemption. Are we the children of the world (i.e. the devil), or are the children of God? The fruit of our life is the evidence.   From verses 11-24 we are shown that how we behave towards our brethren demonstrates our parentage. Do we live a live congruent with our claims? The gospel of John shows how our frequently repeated the words of our Lord Jesus Christ reveal this truth. The motive for the first murder in the Bible was envy progressing into hate. We must always attribute the best motives to our brethren. Slandering, or belittling, others incurs the displeasure of our Father. Cain was banished from God's presence and separated from the hope of a life with the Father. Yahweh sent His Son to lay down his own precious life to bring us into fellowship. Though we may have many a doubt (because we are weak humans) the LORD knows our motives, better than we can understand them ourselves (1 Corinthians 4verses1-5). Our Father is ready, willing and able to lovingly respond to our needs and requests (see Romans 8verses28-39). Chapter 4 commences with the need to test whether the teachings - i.e. this is also a testing of the teachers - are true ("try the spirits"), and from God. John in chapter 2 has already told his readers that the errors of the antichrist were active among the community of the disciples. One of the prime identifying features would be the belief in the Trinity, which originated in catechism 312 AD (having been debated by believers for decades prior to endorsing that view. The acceptance that the Lord Jesus Christ was part of a triune God is completely counter to the entire teaching of the Scriptures (even the Encyclopaedia Britannica admits this in its article on the Trinity). Jesus was completely a man, even though he was the Son of God. John 1verses1-18 tell us his beginnings were when he was born (compare Acts 10verses38-43). Jesus came in the flesh (Hebrews 2verses8-18) and this was the only understanding of the first century community of faithful believers (read "The Apostles' Creed"). Believers need to listen to God and His Word, not human speculations from false teachers. From verses 7-21 we are further told how "God is love". When we love each other with a true heart and fervently it is a witness that we are God's children. The Father's love in redeeming an erring race has been seen from the time of Creation. Its pinnacle was reached in the sending of His Son to provide a ransom for us. Our Lord was able to comply with His Father's will because of their unity of love and purpose in providing a place for our acceptance on the basis of Truth believed and sins forgiven. An understanding of this and a life lived sacrificially in love and service is the only life a disciple can live. Anything else is nothing but a hypocritical lie. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

In Job 20 Zophar advances his second round of argumentation. He contends, that the wicked always suffer; and since you, Job, are suffering it follows that you must be wicked. The arguments are going round in circles and getting nowhere. Job, says Zophar, you insult our understanding. From the time of Creation, he says, it has been evident that the wicked have always suffered. They're scorning for the ways of the LORD is but momentary. And the wealth that the scorners have accumulated is merely laid in store for the just. How exotic and colourful is the language that Zophar uses. The Almighty will swiftly bring retribution upon the hypocrites is his contention. Zophar was correct in stating that the time will come when the LORD punishes the hypocrites. But he was totally wrong as to the timing of the recompense. Our Sovereign is patient and not willing that any should perish. God is patient in the hope that people will respond, consider 2 Peter 3verses8-9; 1 Timothy 2verses3-7. Zephaniah's theme is expressed in chapter 2verses3. The message is timeless and comes to us today with as much power and compulsion as it did in the prophet's day. Slowly read aloud, pause and ponder. Verses 4-5 deal with the judgments that would befall Judah's southern neighbours when the Babylonian invasion would soon overtake God's people. However, verses 6 and 7 tell of a coming time of peace and restoration. The 9th to 11th verses speak of the taunts of the Moabites and Ammonites and Yahweh's determined response. Verse 12 speaks of wrath falling on the Cushites of Northern Africa (including the Egyptians). Then finally the Almighty will bring judgment on the oppressing power of the Assyrian (Nineveh) told of in verses 13-16. It would become a waste, a desolate howling wilderness inhabited by wild beasts and birds of prey. The pride of the Chaldeans would be brought low by the LORD God omnipotent. Let us seek the LORD our God with all our heart so that it will be our Father's good pleasure to give the kingdom to His childrenverses see Matthew 25verses34-40. The first of John's 3 letters was written between 85-98 AD by the aged and much beloved Apostle. He was one of the Lord's special 3 - Peter, James and John - who were selected by Jesus from among the 12 to witness select events and miracles. Together with his brother James, they were both fishermen and partners of Peter and Andrew in the fishing business. Their father Zebedee and his wife Salome appear to have owned the Galilean business. Salome seems to have been Mary's sister, making the two Apostles first cousins of our Lord Jesus Christ. Peter and John were paired by the Lord Jesus for various tasks   including preaching. Peter may well have been the oldest of the Apostles and John the youngest. Peter died first as was prophesied by the Lord Jesus Christ around 67 AD; while John died up to 40, or more years after that time (see John 21verses20-24). There are many internal evidence to the fact that the epistles of John and the book of Revelation were written towards the end of the first century AD (Revelation being the last writing of the New Testament; written after John's exile to the island of Patmos in 96 AD under the Emperor Trajan). John describes himself in each of the three letters as, "the Elder". The vitally important themes of chapter 1 describe God's terms for forgiving usverses 1. Confession and repentance 2. Being in Christ by baptism - the blood of Christ cleanses us 3. Also teaching us about "propitiation" - Rom 3verses Greek word is hilasterion, which is translated as "mercy seat" in the book of Hebrews and it means 'chair, THRONE; MEETING PLACE' Romans 3 tells us that God is enthroned in Jesus Christ and for this reason he is the ONLY place where God will meet with men. Verses 1-4 of chapter 1 speaks of what we heard from the beginning. Which beginning, we ask? The gospel of John tells us, 1verses1 "In the beginning". This was the birth of the Son of God - see verses 9-18 which speaks of the time when our Lord came into being (compare Acts 10verses35-43). They knew the Lord, ate with him, walked and talked with him. And to know our Lord was to understand His Father; and in that knowing was eternal life (John 17verses1-3). And the understanding of this good news (gospel) would lead to everlasting life in the kingdom of God, which will be set up at our Lord's coming (2 Timothy 4verses1). The sharing of this understanding brings fellowship in joining together in partaking of the bread and wine (communion means sharing together); and also joy unspeakable. Verses 5-10 deal with, "Walking in the light". Again, a comparison with chapter 1 of John's gospel record, shows the significance of light to the walk of the disciple - here Jesus is described as a light imparting source (phos - such as the light of the sun), contrasted to the light (luchnos - portable lamp) of the disciple John the Baptist. The three great themes of John's first letter areverses 1) God is light; 2) God is life; and 3) God is love. The theme that "God is light flows from the first letter 1verses5-2verses6. The Apostle speaks in absolutes, black and white; and so, he says, that there is no hint of any shadow (cp James 1verses17). Wrong behaviour, says John, is evidence of not understanding the relationship believers have with the Father and His Son. Of course, believers sin through weakness, but it is not in character with them to wilfully choose a life of sin. But as long as we are endeavouring to follow in Christ's footsteps we will be forgiven upon confession of our sins. Verse 8 tells us that if we deny that our nature is biased to sin; or that we are not sinning; we are self-deceived. However, forgiveness is available to those in Christ who confess and forsake their sins. But, chapter 2 commences, "we have an advocate in the heavens in our Lord Jesus Christ. The word “advocate” is a kindred word to the "comforter" (used in the gospel record in John; which the Lord was himself - and when he departed for heaven to be our priestly mediator; the Holy Spirit was sent by Jesus as another "comforter"). The word used here speaks of a defender in a court of law. The Greek word means, "I call and he runs to my side to aid me". Our heartfelt confession and repentance means we need not fear rejection since the Lord Jesus Christ has provided a "place of introduction for us to God's mercy - the word "propitiation" (see Romans 3verses21-26; 8verses27-39; compare with Ephesians 2verses1-22). The basis for our acceptance before God is "Jesus Christ the righteous". The righteous forgiveness provided by the LORD induces a moral imperative to walk in the way of the Almighty (Psalm 130). Chapter 2verses5-2verses29 is the connection between God being light (phos illumination as opposed to reflection); and God being love. In fact, because He is love it is essential that He be an Illuminating source to His children through the Word of God (cp 1 Timothy 2verses1-5; 2 Peter 3verses8-13). In verses 7-14 the aged Apostle restates the "new commandment" of Jesus Christ, which was new to the extent that agape love had never been demonstrated to that extent before in any man other than our Lord cp John 15verses9-17). The loving life of the disciple flows from an understanding mind that has been illuminated by the Word of the Father (Proverbs 4verses18-19). The confidence of the forgiven saint impels one upon the path of loving and self-sacrificing service to others. John writes to fathers, children and young men with the confidence that he will see the fruit of the word in their lives. He tells us from verses 15-17 that the perishing and transient world consists of no more than passions dominated by "the lust of the flesh" (these are the carnal appetites which tend to control what we do); "the lust of the eyes" (principally covetousness and our insatiable desire for more); and, "the pride of life" (the importance of being someone that is always greater than another). Christ conquered all of these through the heritage of his divine Sonship; and the Word of God impelling his every thought and action (Isaiah 11verses1-5). Verses 18 to 27 speak of the time of the development of the Antichrist among the believers (Greek "antechristos" from "ante" meaning the substitute, or usurper; and "christos" that is the Christ, Yahweh's Anointed). False   teaching is evidence of this; and was even apparent towards the end of the first century AD. In its fully blown development it turned into the apostasy of the Church described in the books of - Revelation; 1 Timothy 4verses1-5; and 2 Thessalonians 2verses1-12 and others. The true believers would resist corruption of teaching and practice through their immersion (anointing in/by the Word of God (1 Peter 1verses21-25; Titus 2verses11-15; 3verses1-11). Verses 28-29 express John's assurance that such believers will continue in the true course until the Lord Jesus Christ comes. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Job 18 deals with Bildad's 2nd round of arguments. Job says, "God punishes the wicked", and since you seem to be suffering punishment you, too, must be wicked. Job, Bildad says, "you keep looking for words to justify yourself. "Do you consider us to be merely stupid cattle? “Settle down, stay calm, and submit to your deserved discipline. No matter how much you protest and struggle you cannot escape the discipline of the Almighty. If you do not learn from your chastening you will disappear into obscurity with the rest of the wicked". Chapter 19 contains the most magnificent statement in the entire Old Testament of God's atonement, or the Almighty's plan to reconcile man to Himself. Job passionately replies, "I know that my Redeemer ("goel" near kinsman) lives". We learn much about the role of the "goel" in the book of Ruth. Both here, and in Ruth, we are taught of Christ's love and His desire to redeem us. Job laments the torments of his friends. The number 10 is used in the Bible, to represent a never-ending sequence (compare in Numbers Yahweh's protestations to Moses of Israel's never ceasing grumbling; also, Hebrews 3). "God", says Job, "seems to have counted me as His enemy. Why I know not. But, if only I had the opportunity I would put my case before Him. My loathsome condition has estranged me from all relatives and friends. Pity me that the Almighty's hand has been stretched out against me". From verses 23-27 we have Job's hope that a "goel" would mediate his case with God. The words have been magnificently captured in Handel's oratorio "Messiah". Our only hope lay in the Father's work of reconciliation, which was accomplished in His Son, who bore our human nature and although suffering its weaknesses and was sinless. And so, he is completely qualified as our Redeemer (Hebrews 2verses5-18). Christ Jesus will return and stand upon the earth to raise the dead in Christ to immortality. Though our bodies be destroyed in the grave ("Sheol"), yet our life will be revived when Christ Jesus comes (Colossians 3verses1-5). "In the meantime, let me be", pleads Job. Zephaniah prophesied during the reign in Judah of the wonderful king Josiah spanning the years (640 BC - 609 BC). This time was just prior to the four waves of Babylonian invasions under Nebuchadnezzar. Although Josiah was a great reformer many of the leaders remained entrenched in their wicked positions because of the longstanding evil reigns of the Kings who preceded the greatest of Judah's reformers. The name of the prophet (Zephaniah) means, "hidden of Yah" (Yah is the shortened poetic form of Yahweh) and his name encapsulates the theme of the book (see chapter 2verses3). Those righteous ones who had sought Yahweh would be hidden from His chastening Hand when the judgements came. Verse 5 tells us that the LORD would punish the remnant of the Baal worshippers - even though Josiah had purged Baal from Judah many still secretly cherished and practised that entrenched idolatry. The record in 2 Kings tells the same story. Verse 5 also speaks of the abominable worship that some still followed (see Ezekiel chapters 12 and 13 which describe the forms of worship which persisted at this time). Verse 8 singles out for punishment Josiah's sons - in particular Jeconiah called by Jeremiah, Coniah - by partly removing his association from the name of Yahweh (see Jeremiah 22verses11-30). Coniah knew not the first thing about being a faithful king (those attributes are enumerated in Deuteronomy 17; 2 Samuel 23; Psalm 72). And so, both Zephaniah and Jeremiah contrast Jeconiah with his father Josiah. Verse 9 speaks of an idolatrous practice going back to the sojourn of the ark of the covenant in Philistine territory at the time of Samuel's infancy (see 1 Samuel 5verses5). Verses 10-13 describe the people chosen for judgment and the reasons for this punishment. Verses 14-18 poetically metaphorically describe what "the day of Yahweh" would look like. Woe to those who mistakenly sought it believing that the judgments of the Almighty would fall on others and not on themselves. Chapter 3 completes Peter's 2nd letter. The first 13 verses tell of the coming day of judgment. Verses 1-5 speak of the wilful ignorance - i.e. by deliberate choice - of the coming judgments upon the wicked. The Apostle shows that despite warnings given to Noah and to those of his generation for 120 years (see also Hebrews 11verses7) those who had once been believers had chosen to abandon their faith. Though punishment seemed slow in coming it was certain. The slowness was to give time for people to repent and turn to God. Our God is not willing that any should perish (verses 8-9). Opportunity must be seized now as there will not always be opportunity. Like unsuspecting individuals those who are unready for the Lord's return will find themselves suddenly ensnared (like a thief in the night surprises those who are not prepared). Our Lord Jesus Christ describes this in Luke 21verses34-36. Paul likewise speaks of this time in 1st Thessalonians chapter 5verses1-9. The dissolution of the Mosaic order is described as the heavens and earth being dissolved. This is a common Biblical figure of speech (see Deuteronomy 32 verse 1 and Isaiah 1 verses 2 and 10). Seeing we are certain of the coming of the heavenly kingdom (Revelation 4 and 5 describe this time) Peter quotes from Isaiah 65verses17-25) that we must live righteously and in readiness for our Lord's return. So, the life and behaviour of the believer must be fashioned in conformity with our desire to be part of the kingdom of our Lord and Christ (Revelation 11verses1-9). Final words from Peter finish the letter in verses 14-18. The Apostle commends them to pay heed to the writings of Paul. The two great Apostles - Peter and Paul - stand shoulder to shoulder in their teachings and in their believing of and living the Truth. Peter's concluding words in verse 18 should be read aloud slowly and pondered. Thanks for joining us

In Habakkuk 3 the prophecy becomes a confident psalm of trust in the Almighty and a prophecy of Yahweh's future judgments at the time of the setting up of Christ's kingdom. It was through this psalm that the writer J. W. Thirtle was able to unravel the structure of the superscripts and subscripts in the Psalms. The expression, "upon Shigionoth" is an instruction as to the musical director of this psalm. Psalms are prayers and this chapter is a Psalm. The report that the prophet heard was of the "wonders" (Hebrew "pala" miracles) which God did on his triumphal march before His people through the wilderness, in the days of the exodus from Egypt onwards to their inheritance in the Promised Land (see Numbers 10verses29-36; Deuteronomy 32verses1-14; Psalm 68). However, although the Psalm is based on events which had happened it is also prophetic - the future tense is often used. Eloah" (the mighty one, speaking of the Lord Jesus Christ coming in His Father's might) WILL come from the south (Teman) - the arena of operation when El (God the Father) via angelic ministration. And He will precede His people. The events of the Exodus occurred 900 years before the prophet's vision. These future events, under Christ, will soon occur when the Middle East is inundated by the great northern army. God's mighty arm and Almighty power will be unleashed on the oppressor and He, Yahweh, will be known and exalted in the earth (Ezekiel 38 and 39; Joel 3 - particularly verse 17). The measuring for judgment is a common Bible metaphor. The ancient nations, represented by the hills, were brought low (humbled). The rivers - the invading nations in particular - experienced the Almighty's wrath. But, as with Pharaoh's chariots (Exodus 14 and 15) these instruments of war are proven vain and useless when they are overwhelmed by Yahweh's salvation chariots (Psalm 68verses18-21). The sun and the moon will stand still in their place echoing the victory of Joshua over the Canaanites, in the land of their inheritance (Joshua 10). The 'head' (Rosh) of the wicked is to be crushed (v13). The sharp victory arrows shall pierce the hearts of the King's enemies (Psalm 45verses5). The whirlwind of Yahweh will scatter His enemies before Him, like the chaff before the wind (v14). And the enemy is trampled underfoot (Exodus 15). This awesome and majestic power of his Sovereign leaves the prophet trembling. The Psalm of Habakkuk concludes from verses 17-19 with precisely the reverse mood to the mood of despondency at its beginning. The prophet has had his fears answered and calmed by his Almighty Sovereign. And so, he now he patiently awaits the salvation of Yahweh - as one of the LORD's just ones, living by faith. Despite all current appearances, our King is of Zion - meaning "exultation". This is the city of our spiritual birth (Psalms 48; 84; 87). The fig and olive trees (are symbols of Israel) will not flourish. Today our God stills the storms that rage in our minds and will soon do so throughout the entire world (2 Samuel 23verses1-4verses Psalm 18; Psalm 46; Isaiah 26verses1-4). Our hope and trust in our Almighty Deliverer is sure and steadfast.

The Life Of Christ # 114 The slaughtered Galileans by John Martin

The second round of arguments is led by Eliphaz in Job 15. He accuses Job of not fearing God. Job, he says, your sayings are just straws in the wind - you don't know what you are talking about. Have respect before you when you open your mouth, says Eliphaz. Your sins have affected your thinking and speech. Ponder the counsel of the Almighty which we are putting to you. Man cannot be pure, says Eliphaz, even the angels of God cannot be trusted (this that he says is so wrong). Man, says his friend, is one of the worst and most abominable creatures that the LORD created; and man above every other creature stubbornly defies his Creator. But this rebellion will be repaid by his Sovereign in due time. Habakkuk 2 is one of the greatest and most pivotal chapters in the Old Testament. The chapter begins with the prophet standing upon his watchtower awaiting the LORD's response to his two challenges in chapter 1. The fourth verse states the essence of Yahweh's redemptive method, "The just shall live by faith". The phrase becomes central to God's plan for redemption as explained in the letters of Romans, Galatians and Hebrews. The emphasis in Romans is, "The JUST shall live by faith"; in Galatians it is, "The just shall LIVE by faith; and in Hebrews it is, "The just shall live by FAITH". Verse 2 tells us that the message was so vitally important that it should be written in such massive letters that a running man would be able to read it. Paul alludes to this in Galatians 3verses1 (note the context through to verse 9). It was like thisverses "THE JUST SHALL LIVE BY FAITH". When the time came for God's judgments the only survivors would be those who were living by their faith (or 'belief'). Wait, says his Sovereign to the prophet, for the fulfilment of this message. The ones whom God had raised up to chastise His people were proud, boastful, covetous drunkards - i.e. the Babylonians. Nebuchadnezzar accumulated nations in abundance. Verses 6-20 pronounce a woe upon the Chaldeans (i.e. Babylonians). Verse 6 describes the pledges, or guarantees, or advances made by other countries to the Babylonians. But, eventually, all human systems will destroy themselves; just as did the Babylonians. The prophet describes their doom with the expression, "The stone will cry out from the wall, and the beam from the woodwork will give its response" (verse 8). Such as these peoples are only guilty of "feathering their own nests". Whether we live under Capitalism, or under a Socialist system, both systems are a veil of weariness for those who pursue them. (Further thoughts on the relevance of these verses to modern Communism are to be found in the footnote below). Yahweh has determined that this be so. Rather the righteous ones who live by trust in the Almighty will wait and hope for the time when, "The earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of Yahweh, as the waters cover the deep" (v14; cp Numbers 14verses21; Psalm 72verses17-20). These waters cover the deep totally - see also Revelation 21. The woes and denunciations against the evil idol worshippers continue in verses 15-19. The chapter concludes on a high note to reverence and awe the Omnipotent Creator. Slowly read aloud and ponder verse 20. The first 7 verses of 1 Peter 3 outline the principles governing the relationship between wives and husbands. This relationship exists to assist one another to graciously receive an inheritance in the kingdom. Mutual submission - the one to the other is key to a balanced spiritual marriage (compare Ephesians 5verses22-33). Outward adornment is to be sparse - the true focus is to be on modesty and a heart centred on our Lord Jesus Christ. Abraham and Sarah provide the model for all time (compare Isaiah 51verses1-5). The faithful example of a spouse may in time win her unbelieving husband to Christ's way. The Word of God and prayer are the cement for a successful marriage. And husbands must not lord it over their wives, but rather be prepared, as Christ showed us, to sacrifice themselves for their wives. Verses 8-22 speak of suffering for righteousness' sake. Listen to and contemplate the words of verse 8, "Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind" (ESV). We do not repay evil with evil, but rather by blessing. Verses 10-12 are a protracted quote from Psalm 34 (one of the most frequently quoted Psalms in the New Testament). This is because the course of life is advised for a believer to follow. Once again prayer is stressed as a guiding force. Christ's disciples' lives are to be exemplary in manifesting the holiness of their Father's calling (Leviticus 19verses13). In suffering for righteousness' sake faithful believers pattern themselves on Christ their head. These disciples become one with our Lord Jesus through belief and baptism; and their identification is a response to a conscience desiring to be reconciled to God. The same attitude was shown by Noah, as he likewise believed the LORD when he built the ark and proclaimed the Almighty's power to save those who trust in the salvation God provides. Our Lord Jesus Christ will return to earth bringing us the longed-for deliverance in his coming kingdom. The fourth chapter in commencing with the word 'for' shows us that it is a linked to the behaviour at the end of chapter 3. The first 11 verses tell us that we are stewards of God's grace. In knowing the extent to which Christ Jesus suffered for the upholding of the righteousness of his Father we too cannot continue in sin as the heedless world does. Without the gospel we are dead, as dead as this wicked world is now. But we have been made alive in Christ. Let our sober minds never forget this. Believers must strive on the behalf of others and with the love of God, outworked in Christ, to extend our Father's graciousness to any and all. Faithful speech must not be self-focussed, but we need speak with God's Words. From verses 12-19 Peter explains that the believer's lot is one of suffering for Christ's sake. The sufferings that the faithful of the diaspora were experiencing was not in any way unexpected - it was because they are living as had their Master and would not be deflected from patterning themselves on   him. Like what was seen with our Lord glory and exaltation would follow rejection and persecution. The Scriptures have always shown this to the path of the righteous - see Ezekiel 8verses18 to 9verses12. Chapter 5 of 1 Peter pursues the theme of humility and of our suffering preceding exaltation and glory. The focus, as always, rightly remains upon our Lord Jesus Christ. He is the chief shepherd, as he had taught Peter both by word and example (compare John 21). Peter embraced and accepted that responsibility with fervour. Our Lord Jesus Christ is the good shepherd (John 10). He is also the chief shepherd (1 Peter 5). And Jesus is the great shepherd (Hebrews 13). Our responsibility, like Peter's (who learned it first from his Lord), is to feed God's flock (Psalms 23; 100). This is done out of a love that reciprocates that of the Father and His Son, not out of compulsion and certainly not for any pay. Those who like their Master clothe themselves with true humility (John 15 and Philippians 2;1-11), shall in God's good time be honoured and exalted. Verses 13-14 end the letter with final greetings. Footnote Interestingly the invasion of Israel by a northern confederacy will soon happen. And it was Krushchev, a Russian leader of the 1950's, who declared, "Promises are like pie crusts, made to be broken". Other characteristics of a totalitarian state include the exploitation of workers. Ironically the communist dictum says that this is what happens under capitalism. Look at the developments that have occurred in the two great communist systems - in China and in Russia (the class in power amass great wealth). Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Job continues his reply to Bildad - in particular - and to his other friends generally. Job's argument in the first six verses is that the accusations of the three friends are just wind - words without any substance. The words of these men are the product of their evil minds and if Job were to agree with the point of view which has been made he would have to stop his respect for his God. From verses 7-17 Job contrasts the pitiful position of humanity with a tree which if it is cut down has a hope of reviving if the scent of water comes to it. Humanity seems to come and go and pass away for ever. But following through the analogy Job makes only exposure to the water of God's Word can bring hope, the raising up through resurrection to live again. God's call and offer is the only worthwhile portion in this life. Verses 18-22 say that even though Job understood this he laments his current deplorable state. The patriarch accepts that it is the   LORD's right to do whatever He chooses and it's our responsibility to accept this and hope that through life we can learn and grow closer to our Maker. The short prophecy of Habakkuk was written around BC 720 when Nineveh was the Assyrian capital city. The previous prophecy of Nahum told of God's judgments on that cruel and oppressive power. The prophet Habakkuk was a patriotic prophet from the southern kingdom of Judah which was to be extensively punished by the cruel Assyrians. In chapter 1 verse 1 the prophet describes his situation. In verses 2-4 the prophet expresses his complaint to the LORD that the violence within the nation of Judah appears to continue without any divine intervention. Verses 5-11 tell of the Almighty's answer to Habakkuk saying that Yahweh will punish guilty Judah by raising the Assyrian to punish the nation. The power, ferocity and speed of the Assyrian is outlined in these verses. In verses 12-17 the prophet makes his second complaint to the Almighty. Yahweh's prophet says surely God cannot use an evil nation like the Assyrian to judge Judah whose relative righteousness is greater than that of their ruthless enemy. This complaint will be answered by the Almighty in chapters 2 and 3. The practices and insatiable appetite for bloodshed and destruction are described by the prophet. In his second chapter Peter continues the theme that closed chapter 1 i.e. human flesh is temporary and momentarily beautiful but in essence worthless, aside from its aesthetic beauty, and the hope of eternal life is that the Word of God can develop within us a character that our Father will choose to perpetuate. Verses 1-10 describe the building of an edifice to the Almighty God from stones He has chosen and enlivened by His satisfying Word which when consumed produces an intense thirst and desire. The foundation stone on which the house is built is our Lord Jesus Christ - Paul elaborates on this same theme in 1 Corinthians 3verses10-17 (note the similar introduction of Paul to Peter's thoughts i.e. compare the beginning verses of 1 Corinthians 3 and 1 Peter 2) and Ephesians 2verses19-22. Peter shows that the Father's purpose in making faith in His Son (our Lord Jesus Christ) was always the LORD's plan. Theo Apostle does this by citing Isaiah 8verses14-18; and Isaiah 28verses16. Our Lord Jesus Christ also quoted these words to prove that belief in him would be the basis of salvation, whereas rejecting Jesus as God's appointed means of saving can only lead to certain and total destruction. In verses 9-10 the Apostle Peter expresses his confidence that his readers have been chosen to show the praise of their Father. In verses 11-12 the Apostle urges his readers to live lives consistent with their profession of faith. From verse 13 to the end of chapter 2 Peter expresses God's requirement for believers to endure persecution for Christ's sake following his example of submission to rulers who cruelly took his life. The argument in verses 13-14 is that the authorities are in power because the Almighty has allowed this - compare Romans 13verses1-7. Peter's readers would find submission difficult as Rome was persecuting believers. In verses 17-20 the Apostle says that exemplary and faithful obedience even in the face of testing circumstances would demonstrate that believers were truly God's children. History tells us that such behaviour led to the acceptance of the truth by many of the pagans of that era. God will reward faithfulness which showed believers knew and understood the example that the Lord Jesus Christ had shown them in the laying down of his life for his saints - verses 21-25. Peter quotes Isaiah 53 which illustrates that our Lord was silent in his suffering that he might bring us to God. Now our Lord Jesus is overseeing and shepherding us as we walk in trust towards our Father's kingdom. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

In chapter 13 Job concludes his answer to Zophar with the response that, despite what he has suffered, he will continue to place his hope in God. Job tells us that his friends have not helped his understanding. Job will, if possible, put his case before the Almighty. You, he says to his friends, are happy with appearances and not with actualities. Don't pretend, Job continues, that you know enough to speak for the LORD. Verse 15 is a wonderful confession of Job's - "though He slay me, I will hope in Him" (ESV). Job says that he will only keep silent after he has put his case to his Sovereign. All you, my so called, friends want to do is to make me your enemy in the mistaken view that I am a wrong doer. The third chapter of Nahum is a woe directed against Nineveh. The first 4 verses describe the panic and loathsome chaotic mess within the city of Nineveh. The prophet, speaking under God's inspiration, declares the Father's contempt towards the Assyrians. Your empire, says Nahum, was of no greater importance than the recently overthrown strongholds of the Egyptian empire. Nineveh's doom would be the same as that of the mighty Egyptians. Nineveh will be like a staggering drunk attempting to flee, and their fortresses of no more use than a fig tree. The soldiers of Nineveh are compared to helpless women. Ironically, the prophet tells the Ninevites to draw water and that any of the fortifications for the siege are useless. The multitude of Nineveh's military are likened to cold grasshoppers in a hedge (3verses17). Nineveh's shepherds sleep and none will rouse them for the coming contest.   Peter's letters, like that of James, were addressed to the believers found among the Jewish diaspora (those not in the land of Israel). The first letter of Peter seems to have been written about 62-63 AD. The superscription attributed the place of writing to be Babylon (whether the actual Babylon, which at the time of writing contained a large expatriate Jewish community because of its geographic advantages to the eastern trade routes - or Rome; also frequently referred to as Babylon in the book of Revelation). Peter was one of the three Apostles selected by Jesus to witness special events and miracles. This Apostle was particularly given the responsibility for shepherding the early flock of believers. Peter and John are linked together in the grouping of the Apostles, and after John, Peter was perhaps the closest of the remaining Apostles. To Peter was given the gospel keys to unlock, through his preaching, the opportunity to become the heirs of the kingdom (Matthew 16) for firstly the Jews (Acts 2), and then of the Gentiles (Acts 10). Galatians informs us that Peter was called the Apostle to the Jews, as Paul was the Apostle to the Gentiles. A comparison between Peter's letters and the Lord's teachings in the gospel accounts show the deep influence which our Lord Jesus had on Peter. Here's a few examples from chapter 1 of Peter's 1st letter. Verse 2 "the elect" (Mark 13verses21-22; John 13verses18; 15verses16). Verse 3, "has begotten us again" (John 3verses5). Verse 8 "ye see him not, yet believing" (John 20verses29). Verse 13 "gird up the loins of your mind" (Luke 12verses35). Verse 16 "be ye holy, for I am holy" (Matthew 5verses48). Verse 17 "without respect of persons" (Matthew 22verses16). Verse 18 "redeemed ... with the precious blood of Christ" (Matthew 20verses28; Mark 10verses45); "received by tradition of your fathers" (Matthew 15verses2-6; Mark 7;3-13). Verse 19 "blood of Christ as of a lamb" (John 1verses29). Verse 20 "before the foundation of the world" (Matthew 25verses34; Luke 11verses50). Verse 22 "love one another" (John 15verses12). Comparisons can also be made with the letters ofverses James, John and Revelation, of Paul and Hebrews; and with Peter's teaching in the Acts of the Apostles. The summary of chapter 1 is as followsverses The Apostle Peter salutes the sojourners of the "dispersion" of the ecclesias in Asia Minor (verses 1-2) and blessed God for His mercy to them (verses 3-4). The usual salutation opens the epistle, but note the openness and largeness of the great Apostle's heart - Peter seeks an abundance of grace and peace for his readers. The hope that we have, as disciples of our Lord, is not sterile; it lives because it is centred in the Lord of life who lives. The joy and salvation which spring from our hope in Christ more than balances the afflictions of the believers (verses 5-9). Despite experiencing trials and suffering for the name of Christ Peter's readers have had their lives preserved through their faith. And this faith will be revealed ultimately at the appearing of the wonderful saviour of the faithful disciples. This faith is likened to tried gold that is being purged, i.e. refined and that gold will glisten with greater lustre after being subjected to the "Refiner's fire" (Malachi 3verses2-3). We, like Peter's readers, have not seen our Lord, yet we believe and love him dearly. Of that salvation prophets and angels have sought to know, yet it was beyond their reach until Christ had come and revealed it to them (verses 10-12). The salvation of which all the faithfuls have ever hoped and the angels have gazed with wondering eyes until they beheld the Christ who was the central subject of the Scripture and the unfolding of our precious hope. Looking to it believers should learn to be patient and holy (verses 13-17). These believers are to lead lives which show that they have been redeemed by the blood of Christ (verses 18-21). The believer's faith and hope springs from the love of those who are being transformed by the power of our Sovereign's Word (verses 22-25). The dominant message of the Law and the prophets was to be holy "as He who has called us is Holy" (see Leviticus 19). Our Lord Jesus Christ's impartial judgment will penetrate the hearts of those whose faith enables them to separate the perishable from the eternal. And the eternal matters are those, which the Eternal Spirit has formed and developed in His faithful family (John 6verses63). These last verses are a citation from Isaiah 40verses6-8. Slowly read aloud, and ponder. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

In Job 12 we have a continuation of his response to Zophar. This chapter tells us Job accepts that all that has happened to him is from the Almighty (Shaddai - a Hebrew word which expresses two different aspects of God's character - it means "the destroyers" and also, "the nourishers"). In chapter 42verses11 we are told that Job's suffering was from God. Job starts chapter 12 with supreme sarcasm, "No doubt you (my 3 friends) are the people, and wisdom will die with you" ESV verse 1; i.e. you're know-alls so why should I, Job, bother talking to you. Can't you see the wicked also prospering, he contends. In verse 10 we have another Hebrew parallelism i.e. the first expression meaningfully correlates to the second - the life of the beasts equates to the breath of humanity (Ecclesiastes 3verses19). Nahum was an Elkoshite from the southern kingdom of Judah. His name means "comfort" (a similar idea to the "parakletos" - Comforter of the New Testament). Jesus made Capernaum (city of comfort, or consolation) his base of operations in Galilee. The comfort of the prophecy of Nahum was that Judah's oppressor would be dealt with by the Almighty. The book was written between 624 AD and 612 AD when Nineveh was overthrown by Babylon. As Egyptian power declined from the middle of the 7th century BC Assyria rose to prominence. Firstly, Nineveh and then Babylon assumed the dominant position in the threatening Assyrian development. Then in 612 BC Babylon conquered Nineveh and she no longer had a rival. Judah rejoiced for although the Babylonians, who God would bring against them in His chastisement, were exceedingly cruel they were more humane than their Ninevite brothers. Chapter 1 of Nahum deals with the Almighty's wrath against Nineveh. Verse 2 describes God's jealousy - Nineveh had been the nation who had brought the LORD's punishment upon God's guilty people. But the Assyrians had delighted in the cruelty meted out on Israel. Israel's Sovereign demonstrated His power   over nature. When Yahweh is aroused to judge who can withstand His might. But after chastisement has been given our Potentate will compassionately pardon His people and destroy their oppressors. Chapter 2 details the destruction of Nineveh. All of Nineveh's powerful defenders and defences would be useless against the coming Babylonian onslaught. The panic within Nineveh is graphically portrayed. Colourful and emotional language describes the chaos experienced by the Ninevites. The den of the former ravening lion has itself become plundered. James 5 concludes this letter from the half-brother of our Lord Jesus Christ. Verses 1-6 contain a warning to the rich. We remember that in chapter 2 the poor were showing favour to their rich oppressors but, as chapter 5 tells us, the time of reckoning had arrived. The soldiers of Rome, who had encircled Jerusalem in 70 AD, had heard that the rich had swallowed their gems in an attempt to escape with some of their wealth. So, when the fleeing rich (identified by their fatter flesh) fled they were opened up to see what wealth they had swallowed. Accumulated wealth in any form other than faithful and charitable works of love is useless, worthless and may in fact witness against us having been faithful servants of Christ. Verse 4 is a reference to the Law of Moses (Leviticus 19verses13; see also Jeremiah 22verses13; Malachi 3verses5). The field day labourers were having their wages held back overnight by the wealthy landowners, which God detested. The powerful would find opposition from Yahweh Tz'vaoth - He whose omnipotent power is with the host of heaven. The time to account for their self-indulgent apathy had come. They, verse 6, had condemned and murdered the righteous Lord Jesus Christ, who as he taught them had not resisted. James also according to history was clubbed to death by the Jews, who called him "James the just". Verses 7-12 speak of patience in suffering. Verse 7 is certainly the key to daily living. The farmer must patiently await for God to give him a crop. Grumble not and judge not, for our Judge is at the door (Acts 17verses31). The prophets and especially Job suffered long under trial. Let this console all believers in patiently enduring suffering whilst praying earnestly for the kingdom for which we long. We must always be true to our word - an oath adds no validity (Matthew 6verses36-37). Verses 13-19 deal with the prayer of faith. These verses contain five prayers. How significant it is that that this letter stresses the importance of prayer in the life of a believer. "Prayer", said brother Harry Tennant, "is not the spare wheel in the boot of the car - for use when an emergency arises - it is the steering wheel that directs our life". There were in the first century believers who had been afflicted with sickness as a consequence of their wayward behaviour. Repentance and prayer were the key to their recovery. If we have a friend who is a close confidant who can keep the matter undisclosed, they may be able to help us through a trauma (see Galatians 6verses1-3). Consider the example of persistence in prayer until resolving the pressing problem that was demonstrated in Elijah's life (1 Kings 18verses41-46). God has given each one of us the responsibility to help one another to the kingdom. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

In Job 11 Zophar speaks and says, Job you deserve far worse than what God has given you. Zophar is the youngest of the three friends. You are full of words and babbling is his message for Job. God is not obligated to respond to a self-righteous individual who is not prepared to accept the obvious is Zophar's contention. With God is wisdom, his friend declared, and it is beyond your capacity to understand Him. God will visit, with recompense, the worthless and stupid says Zophar. So repent and be rescued from your stubbornness is the advice offered. And having done this life will again become satisfactory. In verses 1-17 of Micah 7 we read of the need to wait for the salvation of God. The prophet says that he is like the gathered harvest. The people of God have received the fruit of what they had sown (see Galatians 6verses6-10); and it was not pleasant - for says verse 2, their dealings with each other were evil. Doing what was right seemed an impossibility to Israel. And no one could be trusted. Verse 6 is quoted by our Lord Jesus Christ in Matthew 10verses35 (note the context of the Lord's words). By way of contrast the prophet urges patient continuance in well doing - verse 7 (compare Romans 2verses1-11). The enemy says v8 will pass away when God vindicates His servants. In the meantime, the expectant citizens of Zion will endure chastening. In the day of exaltation, the roles will be reversed and the oppressors will become penitent suppliants. Their Sovereign would then shepherd His people as He did in days of old. The surrounding nations would see and acknowledge this; and would prostrate themselves before the LORD's people.  The prophet's message in verses 18-20 finished on a high point with the prophet's reminder of Yahweh's steadfast love (chesed) and compassion. Read these verses aloud slowly. Pause and ponder. James 3 continues in a practical vein with the issues we all have in controlling our tongues. He says that teachers have a stricter responsibility, as our words will be discounted by our inconsistent conduct and speech. The only man to have perfectly controlled his tongue was our Lord Jesus Christ. In verses 3-4 two examples of small things controlling great things - the horse is controlled by a small bit in its mouth; and a ship is directed by a small rudder. The tongue is small, but seemingly uncontrollable - a small spark sets a forest ablaze; and likewise, a tiny bit of gossip creates untold havoc. How perverse we are. We praise and thank God, and, with the same tongue slander those made by God in His image. This is contrary to nature as the two examples of verses 11-12 illustrate. Verses 13-18 describe and counsel the use of heavenly wisdom. Wisdom and understanding are demonstrated by meekness (teachableness) - see Psalm 18verses20-28; 25verses1-9). Strife and bitterness, by contrast, come from self-promotion. Although purity proceeds peace (see 2 Kings 9verses19; Isaiah 57verses19-21), this is never an invitation to pummel people into submission. Read verses 17-18 aloud slowly. Pause and ponder. At the end of chapter 3 we saw one cause of strife was self-promotion; in chapter 4 he names several more. Chapter 4 warns against worldliness. He deals with covetousness in the first three verses. A covetous person has no room in their life for God. Interestingly the 10 commandments stand and finish with covetousness - the first, "You shall have no gods before me" (a person's possessions possess them); and the tenth, "You shall not covet". Hence Paul says in Colossians 3verses5, "Covetousness, which is idolatry". Hence covetousness is likened to adultery (chapter 4verses4-5). The jealousy of God for the purity and chastity of believers is captured by the ESV translation of verse 5, "He yearns zealously over the spirit (mind, or attitude) that He has made to dwell in us". Compare this with what the Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 11verses2-3. The literal Greek of verse 4 is, "adulteresses" (since God is our groom). But for those who graciously submit and draw near to our Father He will show reciprocity in drawing near to them (see 1 Peter 5verses5-11). Humility now will bring future exaltation (compare our Lord Jesus Christ in Philippians 2 verses 1-11). The humble disciple is not one who critically compares oneself with others. From verses 13-17 James reminds us of our vain and transient nature. Therefore, he says, boasting is wrong. All plans we make are "God willing" (subject to His purpose for us). Should we focus on covetousness we have excluded Him from those plans. What we have has been given to us by Him to use in His service. Life is no more permanent than the vapour from the boiling kettle. Don't be arrogant. Place God at the forefront of all your plans. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Job makes his plea before God in chapter 10. He loathed his life and requests his death. He says, since You, God, have made me You are responsible for my sufferings. It is true that Job's sufferings were allowed by his Maker (42verses11), and it was for a purpose - James 5verses10-11 - but it was wrong for the patriarch (Job) to challenge the Almighty in this regard. Nonetheless Job acknowledged the chasm between mortal man and his Maker. He protests his innocence and says he ought not therefore suffer. Here is the crux of the book - suffering is not only for sin (it is the rightful human condition, as we are inevitable and constant sinners, who need God's mercy, grace and forgiveness). Through sufferings we may learn patience and develop character. With poetic words Job tells of the LORD's creative hand. Sovereign Lord you seem, he says, to be relentless in Your pursuit of me. "Why?", he asks. Please end my life and suffering he asks.   In his 6th chapter the prophet Micah, speaking on the LORD's behalf, condemns the nation. God asks, is there a reason My people have turned from Me. What have I done to cause this. The reality was the very reverse. He had so often pardoned them though they spurned Him in response. Think how great was His love and forgiveness why they grievously transgressed at Baal Peor in Numbers 24-25. God's righteousness is inextricably associated with His mercy, grace and forgiveness. From verses 6-8 is the crux of what God asks of us in response to His pardon. The Law of Moses similarly summarised what God requires from His people in Deuteronomy 10verses12-13. It is not the sacrifice of offering that establishes a relationship with our Maker, but rather a humble recognition of what He has done for us. A humbling of ourselves to walk with the One whose condescension to be our God is beyond our capacity to comprehend (Isaiah 57verses15). Read verse 8 aloud - pause and ponder. Verses 9-16 tell of God's determination to destroy the wicked. This is the character and ways of our God (see Exodus 34verses5-7; and Romans 11verses22-23). James 2 was a hotly debated chapter at the time of the Reformation. Martin Luther totally misunderstood the message of James 2 and declared the letter of James to be, "A straw letter". The atonement is not based on faith alone; but upon a faith that actively works, being energised by love to purify our hearts (Galatians 5verses1-6). Paul and James do not present conflicting arguments, but they are in fact complementary - John Thomas, a Christadelphian writer wrote in 'Elpis Israel' (published in 1850), "Abraham the sinner was justified by faith, but Abraham the saint was justified by his works". Ephesians 2verses4-10 express the truth that works are the response in gratitude to God's grace of His children. Verses 1-13 of James 2 deal with the sin of partiality. This is a sin to which we are all prone. We are all equal in God's eyes. James says the prominent, the posers, the powerful are shown preference. How evil is this. The Bible stresses the need to look after the poor and the vulnerable. Chapter 1 ended on this note. How magnificent and majestic are the words of verse 5 - read slowly, pause and ponder. We must modify our attitudes and behaviours to be the children of our Father. James declared that the very ones to whom you are partial are your persecutors and oppressors. God's royal law is the law of Love. It is Royal as it reigns supreme above all other laws. It cannot be measured, nor legislated. And yet it will be the basis of our being judged by our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming - compare Romans 13verses8-10. Mercy is received when mercy is the basis of our dealings with others. From verses 14-26 the writer establishes from the Scripture the uselessness of a faith without works. He gave the example of sensitivity to spiritual needs, yet totally insensitivity to life's essentials - how incongruous, and yet this often happens. Faith cannot be demonstrated in a vacuum. Even demented people can show a fearful, but pointless faith (belief). The evidence of faith is seen in action (the writer to the Hebrews showed this in the 11th chapter). Abraham and Rahab are the evidence of James' argument. Faith without works is as useful as a corpse without breath. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

In the epistle of James, we have the first of the New Testament writings - written sometime between 42- 44 AD. Of the many James's in the New Testament the author is most likely the half-brother of Jesus Christ. The use of the word "synagogue" tells us that believers had not yet formed ecclesias. The style of teaching in the letter is more like that of our Lord than any of the other letters. There are frequent references to nature and the use of parables is profuse. The early believers were already suffering persecution at the hands of the Jewish leaders. Verse 1 tells us that the letter was for the diaspora (those Jews living outside the Holy Land). Verses 2-18, of chapter 1, outline the purpose of trials (testing) in our life. The expression in verse 4, "perfect and complete, lacking nothing" was used to describe the athlete who had finished first in each of the disciplines of the pentathlon. The trials are to develop trust, character and perseverance. No believer will be exempted from testing. If we fail to understand why the test has befallen us, then ask God with Whom wisdom and understanding lays. But let the asking come from a mind that is assured God knows why, and He knows what He is doing. Both rich and poor will experience the withering winds of trial and in the fact that their Father treats them equally, they ought to rejoice. James echoes the message of Isaiah 40 as to our transient and weak state. He contrasts that with the power of the Word of the Almighty, which is eternal and when it has become the stabilising force in the believer's life it can bring eternal life to that person (compare 1 Peter 1verses22-25). From verse 13 to 15 James tells us of the source and site of the conflict (our mind). He explains that the mind of God, unlike ours, is incapable of being prompted by evil thoughts. This is why our Lord Jesus Christ shared in the trials common to humanity - but unlike us was victorious in the realm of his thinking. The process of sin, the writer tells us, is like baiting and luring a fish into a trap. Our Lord, although tempted (as he was man and not God), never succumbed to the temptation. Verses 17-18 tell us that God is a Father who gives only good gifts (see Matthew 7verses7-11). God is not subject to being eclipsed, nor to parallax error, as the moon is with respect to our sun. The natural world sometimes appears to look different than it really is. From verses 19-27 we are instructed in "hearing and doing the word". Matthew 7 concluded with the parable of the two builders (Vv24-27). We have learned to talk the talk, but have we learned to walk the walk. James' advice to his hearers is that they be swift to hear, but slow to speak. There is an old Jewish proverb that God gave us two ears and one mouth as he wants us to listen twice as much as we talk. He follows this with the need to be calm - be slow to anger (Greek "macrotheumia", literally long before boiling). When we look closely at the mirror of the Word of God we see a mirror of what we are as natural men and women - humans are comfortable with the picture which they see. We are repulsed by what God's Word shows us to truly be. But we must delve deeply into its transforming power to produce a metamorphosis (the changing of an ugly grub into a beautiful butterfly) in us (Romans 12verses1-2). This process liberates our minds from their normal condition of serving self (sin). Our actions will be blessed and a blessing to others. We will learn to practice pure religion in the eyes of our Father. This consists in internal motivations and external actions. Firstly, we must learn to control our tongue (elaborated in chapter 3). The objective of our acts will be to benefit and support the afflicted (here the widows are mentioned). But we also have a personal responsibility to be holy - this involves the rejection of worldly ways and thoughts.

The Life Of Christ # 113 A man's foes shall be those by John Martin_1

In Job 8 Bildad, the next youngest in age, of Job's friends speaks. He together with Eliphaz contends that Job suffers because he has sinned. What is needed from Job is repentance. God will not allow you to suffer if you are upright. The fact that your suffering persists is proof of your guilt. Don't question the Almighty about your suffering - our experience is too limited to rightly judge - just acknowledge your guilt. He, like Eliphaz, musters his arguments from his understanding of nature. Job you must relent, change your way, confess to God and you will be restored. In Micah 3 the rulers and prophets are denounced for their corruption, contempt for God's people, callousness to the poor and total self-interest. Yahweh's face would be hidden from these godless religious leaders. These leaders prophesied of a peace that was not possible given the deplorable state they had brought upon their nation. The consequence of the nation's refusal to receive the Word of God would, verse 6, be a withdrawal of the inspired prophetic guidance - "the sun would go down over the prophets". We notice the parallels of Hebrew poetry - the expression is repeated to be reinforced in different words to say the same thing, "I am filled with power, with the spirit of Yahweh and with justice and might" (v 6 ESV). In this verse, the spirit of Yahweh is power, and is also the same as might. I This occurred from about BC 444 until the ministry of John the Baptist around 21 AD. There would be for them (verse 7) "no answer from God". By way of contrast to this the prophet Micah was "the inspired Word of Yahweh" to the kingdom of Judah (verse 8). And Micah would forthrightly denounce their transgressions, in order that God may save a remnant of them. The prophet's message was that their violence had filled up the cup of LORD's patience. God's exhausted patience the reason "Zion would be ploughed as a field" (verse 15). This message shook king Hezekiah to the core (see Jeremiah 26verses18-19). The prophecy was fulfilled by the Roman Emperor Hadrian in 135 AD. Chapter 4 says that, nonetheless, Zion (meaning "conspicuous"), Jerusalem's aspirational future glorious state would be realised at Christ's coming kingdom. Read verses 1-5 aloud, and pause and ponder - compare with Isaiah 2verses1-4. Verses 6-13 tell us that at that future time Yahweh will restore Zion (Jerusalem). The prophet calls the nation Jacob, after the father of the nation. Micah shows us that Jacob's personal life finds echoes in the nation's history - "her that halters" loops back to when Jacob's thigh was dislocated to teach him dependence on his God (Genesis 32). Likewise, the Almighty's affliction of the nation was designed to bring her finally in faith to her Maker. And through restored Zion Yahweh will bring all nations of the earth into subjection to Zion's glorious king.   Hebrews 13 begins, "Let brotherly love (Greek "philadelphus" the love among brothers) continue". And this is the message of the first nineteen verses. There are many ways to show brotherly love and in verse 2 the writer shows that hospitality is one of the ways. Everyone is a stranger until you get to know them; and who knows whether the unknown person to whom you show kindness might even be an angel. In Genesis 18 3 strangers came to Abraham's tent bringing great blessings. Verse 3 focuses on supporting the afflicted and counsels visits to encouraged. This has often been done by Christadelphians resulting in people becoming believers, but without this you will be blessed in your care being shown to another). Verse 4 tells of the honourable and elevated state of marriage among believers; and states that sexual relationships outside marriage are unacceptable to God. Verse 5 tells of the dangers of coveting and explains that knowing God is the best way to counter this. Be content (see 1 Timothy 6verses5-10). The literal Greek of this verse is - "I will never, no not ever, leave you, nor forsake you". How incredibly encouraging are these thoughts - so that whatever is before us can be overcome v6. One person and God is always an overwhelming majority (see 2 Kings 6verses16). Always (v7) show respect for those who guide you to understand the Word and counsel of God. Imitate their faith, for it is sustained by an unchanging Lord Jesus Christ (v8). Grace must lead us (v9). We ought not be focused on the present - this includes foods, which are all too important a part of today's transient world. Verse 10 we live lives sacrificing everything upon our altar, Christ, who gave all to bring us to God. The Law of Moses taught the same in the code of offerings. It was leading us to Christ as the writer was reminding the Hebrew believers. As a consequence of doing this our Lord was crucified and we must take up our cross They were citizens of the coming Zion and not the present Jerusalem which was awaiting destruction. Our sacrifice is of praise - an attitude of gratitude (v15). Show submission to your guides in the Word, because it is not for their benefit that they give counsel. Those leaders, too, will be called to give account for their words. Pray for the writer, indeed for all who labour in the Word to magnify our Sovereign and His incomparable Son. Verses 20-21 give us the closing benediction. ESV "Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ to whom be glory for ever. Amen." Pause and ponder. Final greetings follow and finish with a request for God's grace to be with them. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

In chapters 6 and 7 Job replied to Eliphaz. He says in chapter 6, "My complaint is just". To get the full impact of the Hebrew poetry reading from a modern version such as the ESV is recommended. Metaphor after metaphor is added by Job in an attempt to explain that nature's lessons do not agree with Eliphaz's contentions. In verses 8-9 Job asks the LORD to take away his life. From verses 24-30 he declares, if you can teach me and show me my faults I am ready to receive instruction. In chapter 7 Job says, that his life now is without hope. The truth of the words of verse 7 are echoed by James in chapter 4verses14-15. Verses 9- 10 of Job 7 tell us of an often-repeated truth in the Bible - that the dead are unconscious and incapable of thought. The rest of the chapter outlines the misery of Job's present life; and that death would be a better option.

In chapter 5 Eliphaz continues his first talk. He says that, although the fool appears to prosper this is only for a time. As verse 7 indicates, the trouble for which that type of person was born will soon come upon them. This is not the case for the upright, contends Eliphaz. In verse 17 the words of Eliphaz are directed at Job - "Behold, blessed is the one whom God reproves; therefore, despise not the discipline of the Almighty" (Hebrews 12verses5-11). The supposed friend is saying, since you are suffering greatly your secret sin must be great; so be grateful for the chastisement that has come from God. And when you repent you will find lasting peace. The prophecy of Micah related to the period BC 787 to BC 721. Chapter 1 tells of the kings whose reign the prophecy spanned; and include an allusion to the earthquake of BC 786 - once more establishing Micah's authority as Yahweh's prophet (cp Deuteronomy 18). The prophet Micah was from a rural area - Moresheth. Verses 2-16 tell of the coming destruction, and like the pattern in Amos, the following chapter outlines the reasons for this judgment. The prophet Micah was a contemporary of the prophet Amos. Both prophets extensively use the device of ascending numeration - i.e. if (x) is sufficient, then (x+1) will be more than enough. Our God is beyond "sufficient", He is super abundant - Exodus 34verses6-7 “Abounding in steadfast love (chesed) and faithfulness (eduth) .. keeping steadfast love (chesed) for thousands" ESV; compare also the thoughts of 2 Corinthians 8 and 9. Verse 2 echoes Isaiah 1verses2, and once again we are dealing with two contemporary prophets - Micah to the northern kingdom of Israel; and Isaiah the southern kingdom of Judah. By contrast to Micah Isaiah was the prophet in Jerusalem who was constantly able to advise the king. The language of Yahweh coming out of His place to judge is prominent among the prophets of this era. Micah declared that Yahweh will roar out of His place against the idols in showing His wrath. Israel's wounds were incurable and so God was left with no alternative, but to execute justice. From verses 10 to the chapter's end is an itinerary of the path the Assyrians took on their March through the Land. It is also a great play on words, i.e. tell it not in tell town; then, in the house of dust, roll yourselves in dust... v16 make yourselves bald like the bald eagle etc. After the conqueror had taken the prophesied route the foe would then take the population of the northern kingdom to exile in Assyria. Chapter 11 of Hebrews is about "by faith"verses what can be accomplished; chapter 12 "with hope”verses patiently enduring; chapter 13 "in love" the abiding overarching necessity for believers - these 3 (compare 1 Corinthians 13verses13; Galatians 5verses5-6)). The writer completed the book on the great and lofty themes of God's Word. All good translations convey the sense of Hebrews 11 verses 1-3, that faith tells us that the framing, or adjusting, of this world's ages has been done with our Lord Jesus Christ in mind. Faith is the reality, substance, of the things being hoped for. Without faith, hope and love we would find ourselves living in a meaningless world. The chapter could also be called "Faith's family". From verses 4-7 the writer takes us to the roots of this family and looks at what was done by faith before the flood. Abel commences the list, and his name means "futility" - that is the human position apart from God (but with God all things are possible). Abel offered what God asked i.e. what God wanted. It cost Abel his life (as it had, and would still, cost the lives of the faithful readers of this book should they stand firm for their faith). But faith gave Abel an abiding and eternal life guaranteed by God. Similarly, Enoch's life was threatened by Lamech, whose power could not match that of our Almighty Sovereign. Verse 6 should be read slowly and pondered, "Without faith it is not possible to please God; for the ones who come to Him must wholeheartedly believe two things - God is; and He becomes a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him". Noah was warned of God about a coming flood, when as yet it had not even rained on earth. The readers were likewise being threatened to be overwhelmed by an impending and tumultuous unstoppable Roman tide, and if they were without God's provided ark (Christ) they could not survive. By faith Noah built the ark to save his family, commencing this labour 20 years before having any family. Consider Abraham and Sarah (Vv8-12). They, says the prophet Isaiah, were the human founding source of faith's family (51verses1-2). Both of them left a life of luxury to faithfully follow He who had promised them a land and city with foundations (verses 9-16; cp also Hebrews 6verses13-20). The writer shows that all the Father's family died in faith awaiting their future reward at Christ's coming. The book's readers, likewise, had in Jerusalem no continuing city; but were seeking the one which their God was building; and by faith they would constitute that city (Psalm 87). It was by faith (verses 17-19) that Abraham was able to offer,   as a sacrifice, the heir of the promises. Abraham was fully and firmly convinced that Isaac would be resurrected. The members of the patriarchal family demonstrated their faith, often in small and simple ways - faith is frequently shown in the little things (verses 20-22). Moses' faith was evident when God used Moses to deliver Israel from Egypt. Faith gave Moses the capacity to endure suffering. Moses looked, not on what seemed to be, but believed what the Omnipotent had promised (so must the readers' faith sustain them in their trials). Faith brought Israel through the Red Sea (and it sustained would see them rewarded in the Promised Land). The writer says time was insufficient to keep naming the members of faith's family (verses 32-38); but consider the power of faith to sustain enduring trust in God to live faithfully in a godless world. And all of these together with us will receive the reward of the faithful when our Lord Jesus Christ comes to set up his kingdom on earth (verse 39). Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Thoughts on the Bible Readings December 3rd (Job 3, 4; Jonah 4; Hebrews 10) The initial suffering of Job is intensified in chapters 3-41 as we are told of his education. Following the drift of the conversations and the unfolding drama in Job can be complex. Recommended reading to assist the above is available from CSSS -"The Education of Job" by David Baird. In chapter 3 Job is in such despair that he mourns his birth. Surely many of us have been there at some time in our life, but we should never lose hope - when we cannot help ourselves, God can and is willing and waiting for us to commit ourselves to Him in continual prayer. If it wasn't for the pathetic situation Job found himself in, the imagery and poetry is magnificent. One after another the metaphors of his tragedy are multiplied. Job 3verses13-19 tell us that in death people are unconscious and are as though they had never existed. From   verses 20-26 the question is asked, "Would it have been better to have never existed, than to be enlightened and find oneself in the condition that Job now found himself?" Job 4 is about the response of Eliphaz who most likely was the eldest of Job's friends. The great error of his discourse that was widely believed at this time was, that God pays back people swiftly for their actions - right, or wrong. It is known as the doctrine of exact retribution. So, the argument of Eliphaz is that the innocent never suffer. And since you, Job, are suffering you must be guilty. Verse 7 is the key to Eliphaz's discourse. From verse 8 to the chapter's end Eliphaz says, this is what I have found in my experience. The record of the book of Job is not an endorsement of the beliefs of any of the friends. It is simply a record of what was said among them. In chapter 4 several of Eliphaz's views supposed spiritual views on the spiritual world are found to be false. Jonah 4 concludes the book with the mission, which God gave him, being accomplished. Yet Yahweh must still teach the prophet some important lessons. In those lessons we find a great contrast between our God's compassion and the prophet's anger. Jonah, still the great patriot who knew what God would bring upon guilty Israel through the Assyrians, said to his Sovereign, I should not have done what you asked, since You are true to Your revealed character. God now will re-educate His prophet. Jonah left the city in a bad mood brooding on what would follow. The temperature intensely rose and Jonah's misery increased. And so, Yahweh in His kindness caused a gourd grow to rapidly and shade the prophet. Jonah was thankful for this. But then, just as quickly a grub destroyed the gourd. Jonah was outraged and complained to God, who told the prophet that the Almighty had worked two miracles, as was His right, to teach Jonah that Assyria was God's and did not belong to the prophet. Even the animals of Nineveh were under God's care. Today, the modern city of Mosul is built on the site of ancient Nineveh. The Taliban constructed massive tunnels beneath the city. And though there is no record of where Jonah went, or what he did, after the book's end, archaeologists have found beneath the city of Nineveh a tomb with the inscription, "Nabi Yonas" (i.e. the prophet Jonah). So, it appears the lessons were learnt and the prophet continued to labour preaching God's Word to the Assyrians.

The book of Job was, perhaps, the first written among the Old Testament books. From the people mentioned in the book it would seem to have been told between the time of Abraham and the Exodus of the children of Israel from Egypt. Perhaps between 40 to 80 years before the exodus. This would place the time of writing between BC 1571 and BC 1531. Its author may have been Moses. The place of the events described is in the area of Midian, to the south-east of the Promised Land. There are many views as to whether the events told actually happened, or were rather an ancient drama to instruct faithful believers. From what has been written in James 5 it would seem more likely to be a record of what actually occurred (James 5verses11). What an introduction to the man Job - he was the greatest of all men from the east. But, chiefly, his greatness lay in that, he "was blameless and upright, one who feared God and turned away from evil" (verse 1 ESV). He is a family-oriented man, who brought up his family in "the fear and admonition of the LORD". Verses 6-12 introduces us to "the Satan" of the book. Note, that this time I have used an upper-case S, because the book is dealing with a specific adversary, or opponent - as the Hebrew word indicates - though the name of this adversary is not revealed). As a common noun the word occurs numerous times in the Old Testament, and in the vast majority of cases is without the definite article ("ha" in the Hebrew). The majority of the occurrences where the definite article is used are in Job and Zechariah (both of these books focus on an identifiable opponent, and in these two books that opponent is easily identified). Verse 6 speaks of a day when God's children presented themselves before Him and this tells of a time for gathering together for a specific purpose - such as when Israel gathered at the appointments of the Festivals. Or, when in this age, believers gather to memorialise the Lord's supper (coined "communion"). Job's adversary may have been a disaffected believer. He proposes that Job's reverence for God is conditional on Job's favoured status. God's advice to the adversary is that Job's uprightness is not related to the blessings Job receives. To prove the point God, for a time, gives the opponent power to test this. The Satan has no independent power (see Job 42verses11). From verses 13-21 we read of a succession of disasters which the adversary requested God to bring upon Job and his family. The chapter finishes by telling us that Job failed not. Job admits that it is Yahweh's right to treat us as He sees fit. Again, when the believers assemble together the adversary is there. Job's opponent is again confronted by God; but the adversary says that all mankind are essentially selfish. Yes, but says Job's foe, smite his health and Job will forsake his uprightness. This affliction of Job's health was permitted, and Job was smitten with leprosy (a loathsome, itching, superinfection of boils). Job receives no let up from the pain that this induced. Job's wife could endure no more and calls for her husband to curse God and die. Job rebukes her folly. From verses 11-13 we are told that when the news of their friend's suffering reached Job's 3 friends they came and sat in silence with him for seven days.

Esther 9verses1-19 give details of the destruction brought by the Jews upon their enemies. At the Royal citadel in Shushan, on the 13th day of the month Adar, when the original decree requiring their destruction had come into effect 500 are slain. The fear of Mordecai fell upon all the subjects of Ahasuerus. Those killed were mainly nobles and included the 10 sons of Haman, who were ignominiously hung on Haman's gallows, where Haman's body already hung. But no spoil was taken by the Jews. Ahasuerus granted Esther that the slaying may continue in the remaining provinces. The following day a further 300 were slain in Shushan and 75,000 in the provinces. Still the Jews did not take any spoil from their enemies. After this was completed the Jews feasted and rejoiced on the 14th and 15th days. Gifts and food were given to celebrate the deliverance granted to them by their God. Verses 20-31 record the inaugural feast of Purim (signifying the casting of lots) on Adar 14-15 to be celebrated in all generations of the Jews. To this day this joyous festival is celebrated. Esther 10 concludes as chapter 9 began. Mordecai was great and second only to king Ahasuerus. Typically, we see God the Father reigning over all with Christ His Son as the second in command in the time beyond the Millenniumverses see 1 Corinthians 15verses24-28. PROVIDENCE occurs in the life of every believer. Sometimes it will be evident. Often we may suspect God's hand was behind what has happened. Whether, or not, we see God at work in our life, rest assured He is. Recommended reading Robert Roberts, "Ways of Providence".

The Life Of Christ # 112 The son of man cometh at an hour by John Martin

Esther 3 introduces us to the villains of the book - those who are against Yahweh and His people. But as Isaiah 54verses17 tells us, they are doomed to failure. Haman, the son of Hammedatha (the Agagite), the richest noble of the realm wins king Ahasuerus' favour. Haman should never have existed if Saul had fulfilled God's commission to destroy the Amalekites. Agag is a kindred word to the "Gog" of Ezekiel 38. That latter day enemy will also attempt to exterminate the Jews. Could it be the Russian leader? Whoever it is he will be destroyed and buried in the valley of Jehoshaphat, and on the mountains of Israel. How quickly do the archetypal foes meet each other and the result is instant hatred and loathing. The Jew, Mordecai, is warned by the king's servants that in not bowing down to Haman he is in great danger. In verse 7 we are told that Haman seeks a sign from casting lots ("pur"), which he does from the first to the twelfth month, as to when would be the right time to destroy every Jew. From verses 8-11 Haman asks of king Darius (Ahasuerus) the right to destroy a race, which he describes as pests, whose existence (Haman said) was to the detriment of the king's realm (this is not this dissimilar to Hitler's argument in his book, "My Struggle"). If, says Haman, Darius allows this to be done 10,000 talents will be paid into the king's treasury facilitating this to happen. Permission is given and the postmen are sent to all corners of the realm announcing the date of the destruction of the Jews. Chapter 4 tells how God, through Mordecai, is able to thwart this plan. Firstly, Mordecai shows humility before he invokes help from the Almighty. Esther 4verses4 speaks of Mordecai's remorse and from verse 5 Esther seeks to know the reason for his being clothed in sackcloth. On finding out, and having been told by Mordecai that this perhaps is the reason she has become Queen is providential. Esther agrees to be part of a counter plan to defeat Haman. Esther would do whatever it required, even if it is to cost her life. Amos 8 begins with the vision of the basket of summer fruit, revealing that God's judgments cannot be averted. Great destruction would be seen everywhere, even in the Temple, which they mistakenly believed was their defence. Verses 4-6 explain why their Sovereign is going to discipline them. The entire population is covetous in the extreme and sees religion as an impediment to their greed. Yahweh swears in His righteousness to avenge such evil deeds practiced by the rulers of Israel. Verses 8-10 tell us that what they hypocritically delighted in is to be totally overturned. Verses 11-12 speak of the famine that is to come when those seeking counsel from God would not find it. At that time their idolatry and calf worship will cease. In the final segment of our Bible readings, we are introduced a picture of ourself - Onesimus, a profligate runaway slave, who in Rome is liberated from his wasteful state to become a brother in Christ. Theo key words in this letter are related to BOWELS. Paul is demonstrating his love for God, His Son, His Word, His truth, and for Philemon and his family and the ecclesia, as well as for Onesimus. The Apostle is   demonstrating to Philemon that, we must not only know and live the truth, but we must also love it, and God and His Son and His Word, His truth, His ecclesia, His familyverses we must be emotionally involved and committed. K Paul sends Onesimus back to his master, as a fellow believer in Christ carrying this letter and the epistle to the Colossians. Onesimus is formerly described as being "unprofitable", which is our condition before we believed the gospel and received forgiveness. But now he has learnt to abound in his grateful realisation of his elevated status see Ephesians 2verses1-12. The Apostle Paul had taught Philemon the truth of the gospel. He speaks of Philemon's debt to God in the forgiveness which he has been given. Therefore, Philemon ought to show the same forgiveness to his fellow believer - even though Onesimus was his slave. The Apostle Paul is confident that Philemon will comply with the Apostle's request. Final greetings are conveyed through Epaphras, who carries the letter to Philemon. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

After the anger of Ahasuerus has abated, as chapter 2 tells, he consults with his young peers as to the process that is to be pursued in finding a new Queen to replace Vashti. Throughout his entire realm beautiful virgins are sought and the one who pleases the king is to be chosen. Verses 5-11 introduce us to both Mordecai and the maiden Esther, her Hebrew name is Hadassah (Persian word "Esther" = 'star'; Hebrew name "Hadassah" = 'myrtle'), When the newly created state of Israel was formed in 1948 their first ambulance service was called "Hadassah". Mordecai had been taken into captivity in BC 605 when Jeconiah was Judah's king. Esther is Mordecai's uncle's daughter. Esther pleases the head eunuch, Hegai, who is also in charge of the king's harem. Therefore, Esther is advanced by Hegai to be brought before king Ahasuerus as soon as possible. But at this point in time no one knew that Esther was Jewish. Verses 13-24 describe the care and process that is required for those to be brought before the king. Verses 15-18 tell of Esther's turn to enter the king's presence. She immediately finds Darius' favour and he gives a feast honouring her. Verses 19-23 inform us that Mordecai overheard a plot to kill king Ahasuerus. This plot comes from two of his chamberlains - Bigthan and Teresh. The greatest lesson of the book of Esther is of Yahweh's providential preservation of His people. Hence nothing in the entire book happens by accident. It all occurs because God's providential hand is directing everything. Amos 7 tells of successive judgments brought on Israel (called Jacob in this chapter as he was the forefather of the nation) by Yahweh in response to the nation's waywardness. The first disaster is preparing the plague locusts devouring the developing crop. The second catastrophe is the sending of a great fire on the land - the fire is a symbol of judgment and frequently by warfare. The third disaster was the builder's plumb line to measure the nation's straightness and when applied the nation is found to be in need of correction. After each proposed judgment there follows the prophet's intercession for the nation with the refrain, "by whom shall Jacob rise, for he is small". Then we are told of God's response which indicates the decreed judgment cannot be averted. King Jeroboam 2nd's false priest, Amaziah, from Bethel (the house of God - (ironically so-called) tells Amos to stop saying things that the king does not want to hear. Amos' response is that he became a prophet involuntarily because of the Almighty's call to him as a part of the ministry of the prophets. Prior to that Amos earned his living by gathering and selling wild figs (sycamore tree fruit). Amos denounces Amaziah and prophesies a telling and spine- chilling prophecy against the false priest and his family. Titus was a convert of Paul. Paul calls him "my true child in our common faith", as he likewise calls Timothy. Some suggest, with good reason that Titus may have been the brother of Luke the beloved physician. Titus' full name was perhaps Titus Justus. Paul leaves Titus in Crete to establish and solidify the Cretian ecclesias; of which one historian says that there may have been a hundred, or more. The three chapters contain outstanding information about individual lives in the service of Christ. The letter appears to have be written after Paul's release from 2 years house arrest at the end of Acts 28. After this conditions for Christians become far worse, as Nero blamed them for the great fire in Rome. 2 Timothy outlines some of the consequences of this with Paul being arrested at Ephesus and accused of being the ringleader of the Christians and therefore the prime instigator of the fire. The Apostle seems to have undertaken a fifth missionary journey. In the course of this journey, he and Titus have visited Crete to establish ecclesias, perhaps more than a hundred. This journey left the task of organising those ecclesias and the Apostle Paul leaves Titus on the island to do this. So, the book starts with the qualifications required to be an elder of the believers. These elders were to be faithful and experienced brothers. Verse 9 tells us that some of the elders were also overseers - elders refers to the body of men appointed to direct the ecclesia; whereas overseer speaks of a specific function that some of these elders had. Verses 10-11 of chapter 1 tell of the insubordination of many of the Cretians. Their gluttony, idleness and falseness are legendary in the Roman world. Paul ironically speaks of the Cretian paradox spoken by their poet Epiminedes, who claims all Cretians are liars, and yet in this he was a Cretian telling the truth. Paul asks Titus to firmly rebuke those who practise these behaviours. Such are unacceptable among any follower of Christ. The first chapter concludes by telling us that the pure in mind don't have their words   and actions tainted by double standards - likewise those who are double minded corrupt all. Chapter 2 commences with instructions to the young men, such as Titus (v1); older men (v2); older sisters (Vv3-5) - this includes what they are teaching to the younger women both by word and, even more importantly, by example (cp 1 Corinthians 11verses1). In verses 6-8 he tells the young men that they are to be shining examples of followers of Christ. Slaves, who comprised two thirds of the Roman world, are told (V11-12) that by honesty and diligence they prove that they are believers and, by such behaviour, they enhance the reputation of true Christians. There is an emphasis in the letter on "soundness" (literally, not only being healthy, but more so that which promotes and imparts health). How meaningful is this given that the name Titus signifies "nurse". The book reminds us of little things, many of which are important. Don't forget the little things, which demonstrate tender care for fellow saints. We could do no better than to fix our minds and meditate on our sober responsibility to live expectantly of our Master's return as the book of Titus 2verses11-14 urges us. Read aloud, pause and ponder. Chapter 3 tells of the incredible power of the Word of God to purify our lives; and to ultimately save us when our Lord Jesus Christ comes to bring the kingdom of our Sovereign to the earth. All believers are reminded of the need for submission to God appointed order and authority. We show love and tolerance to all in recognising that this is what our God has done for us. The fifth of the faithful sayings occurs in chapter 3verses8, "Those who have believed God must be careful to be forward (Greek word indicates a proud store holder, who proudly stands in front of his/her quality produce) in good works". Pause and ponder.

Esther commences with Ahasuerus' feast. That Persian king is also known as Darius 1. He holds a feast lasting for 180 days. The year is 515 BC. The king rules from his palace in Shushan (also known as Ecbatana). This is Darius' royal citadel from which he reigns over 127 provinces. Ahasuerus wishes to show his pomp to all the dignitaries of his realm, so he holds a feast lasting for 6 months. At the end of this the king holds another feast of 7 days duration and on this occasion the king gives gifts of food and wine, until each of his lords are satisfied. At the end of this feast, he calls for his beautiful wife Vashti to attend, in order that all those present might see her beauty. But Vashti refuses to attend creating a dilemma in the Persian court. The nobles insist that Vashti be disciplined by king Ahasuerus and that he divorce her. The princes argue that Vashti's refusal has created a precedent for every wife in the realm to refuse to submit to their husbands. So, king Ahasuerus issues a decree forbidding Vashti from being queen and from ever again coming into his presence. Amos 6 tells of those who are at ease in Zion i.e. they had failed to show the vigilance and diligence required of God's servants. These citizens have been proud and refused to accept that for this reason they must be judged. These lofty individuals indulged in every luxury without giving their Sovereign a second thought. Individuals who are wicked and selfish individuals have no compassion for those who are suffering. For those reasons many of them would die in the coming day when the Almighty was to repay their evils. And yet they would still refuse to acknowledge the LORD. In the poetic symbolism of verses 11-12 the prophet says that every effect has a logical cause. And the end of the chapter states that their actions and contempt for their God would be the cause of their Sovereign's allowing the Assyrian to bring the nation into captivity. The warnings against "perilous times" coming in ‘the last days', are recorded in 2 Timothy 3 for us. The word "perilous" means "difficult to endure", or "hard to bare". What will make those times difficult for believers? The answer is that the majority of believers will be so self-indulged that they have become indifferent to the need for godliness - in word they will profess to be the servants of the Almighty, but their actions deny that this is of great import to them. Those having this attitude will destabilise some who have a semblance of religion just like the two Egyptian magicians - Jannes and Jambres - who through smoke and mirror tricks seemed to be able to copy the signs that Moses did before Pharaoh. The folly of those charlatans was seen by all. Paul says that such people profess to be religious but are totally immoral and aim to seduce women who are naive. In verses 10-17 Paul tells of his example to all of how he has lived his life which shows him to be a true and faithful follower of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Apostle speaks of the stoning he endured at Lystra. That spectacle had been witnessed by and impressed upon young Timothy (I believe that Paul actually died and was raised on that occasion). Persecution and suffering for the faith will always be the lot of the faithful believers. So, Timothy must continue to be steadfast and adhere to the Word of God which has been breathed out i.e. expired by our God to inspire His servants to follow faithfully. The teachings and lives of disciples must be seen to be the lives of those who know that they belong, not to this world, but to their returning Lord, whose kingdom nears. Chapter 4 begins with the solemn responsibility to keep preaching regardless of the consequences; and knowing that people will prefer fables that will reassure them in what they are wanting to hear. At the Lord's coming the living believers, and those who have died knowing what God required of them, will be judged. The faithful will be rewarded in that longed for kingdom. Paul's fight has finally finished. The Apostle's race has been race run and he himself is ready to be poured out as a drink offering. Paul assures his son in the faith that he has kept the faith and that there will be, for him, a crown (stephanos - the laurel wreath given to the Victor) of (not for) righteousness. That crown will be (v1) at the day of Christ's coming and of his kingdom. That crown will not be Paul's alone but it will be given to all those who expectantly LOVE the appearance of our Lord Jesus Christ. Verses 9-18 speak of personal instructions. The Apostle finds himself alone with Luke, the beloved doctor. At this dangerous time others had found reasons to be elsewhere. These verses provide snippets which help us to trace Paul's final movements before his arrest in Ephesus. The aged Apostle is cold and poorly clothed. He lacks the Scriptural scrolls which he loves and requests that they be brought to him. The roaring lion (the mad Roman Emperor Nero) stands ready to devour Paul. Nero actually did put on the skins of wild animals and with their claws tore many of his victims - often they were faithful disciples in Christ - to shreds.   Nonetheless Paul is confident that, although knowing he will now die, he is still nonetheless being delivered by God for the coming kingdom. The letter ends with final greetings. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Nehemiah had initially been given leave in approximately BC 470 by the Persian king Darius for a period of time after which he returned to Ecbatana (the king's palace in Shushan). Then a further thirteen years elapse (BC 457) he is again granted leave to return. Sadly, in his absence, there had been a decline described by the prophet Malachi. Nehemiah 13 would have been the last section of the Old Testament to have been written shortly after Malachi's prophecy. When we compare Malachi and Nehemiah 13 we see the same problems being addressed. The first few verses of Nehemiah 13 tell us that Nehemiah reads to his people from the Book of Moses that Balaam   was able to bring a curse on Israel only when they mingle themselves among the profane, immoral and uncovenanted Moabites. So, Nehemiah returned to Jerusalem and this is what he found - the high priest's daughter was married to Tobiah (one of the great enemies of Israel) and the high priest had set up for Tobiah a room in the temple and had stopped the collecting of the tithes for the priests and Levites which had previously been stored in Tobiah's room. Nehemiah casts Tobiah and his furniture out of the temple. Then Nehemiah cleanses the house of God. Because the tithes had not been paid the Levites had been forced to abandon the teaching of the Law to the people and work as day labourers in the fields. Nehemiah quickly rectifies this problem. The sanctity of the Sabbath had again been lost and the foreign merchants had resumed their trade. Nehemiah asks for the LORD to remember him for good. Nehemiah's heart was always directed to Yahweh's and His people's service. The next problem described is the intermarriage between Jews and godless and uncovenanted foreigners. The result is total confusion and children who knew not their God (compare Malachi 2verses11-16 read aloud, pause and ponder). Nehemiah forcefully remonstrates with those who had committed this breach of faith with their God and reminds them that the marrying of uncovenanted wives was one of the greatest factors in the turning of Israel to idolatry at the time of Solomon - despite Solomon's great wisdom. The offerings are restored and Nehemiah in his final prayer says, "Remember me, O my God, for good". The message of Amos 5 is to seek Yahweh and live. In the opening verse there is a lament that the virgin daughter of Jerusalem is fallen and without her Sovereign's aid she cannot not rise again. There will come a famine so severe that a city of 1,000 people would be left only 100 - of a city of 100 would be left only 10. Verses 4 and 6 say that the nation must seek Yahweh if they are to live. Verse 5 speaks of 3 centres of significance in the nation's history - places of significant decisions and places of true worshipping in the past. The nation had turned God's values upside down. Speakers of truth were derisively mocked. The poor have been trampled and exploited. Nothing would be done without bribes. The prophet counsels the nation to behold the power of the One they were shunning - He had made the 7 virgins (the constellation Pleiades) and Orion (the giant). If, verse 14, they are to now to seek the LORD, they may yet be spared. The chapter concludes with powerful metaphors of God's justice - read verse 24 aloud, "Let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness as an ever-flowing river" verse 24 (ESV pause and ponder). Those who expressed a desire to see "the day of the LORD" would regret the inescapable judgments that would follow one after another. God abhorred their sacrifices. It was as though they were being offered to an idol that cried out for blood (verses 25-27 are cited by Stephen in his defence in Acts 7verses42-43). In chapter 2 of 2 Timothy, we are told of the Apostle Paul passing on the baton, of faithful stewardship in the Truth, to Timothy his own true son in the faith. Paul also passes on the responsibility of the charge that Timothy, in turn, must find faithful stewards for the safeguarding of our hope. The Apostle gives three examples of patient endurance in hardship - the soldier must do as commanded; the athlete must abide by the rules to receive the wreath (and avoid disqualification); the farmer must first eat of the crop without after labouring to produce it. And although, says the Apostle, I am a bound prisoner, the Word of God cannot be bound. Furthermore, Jesus Christ is the true and resurrected seed of David. Verses 11-13 give the fourth faithful saying (or "word" as the Greek for 'saying' indicates.) Read aloud, pause and ponder. The results of suffering with Christ remains true whether or not we stay faithful to the calling. This is because faithfulness is a certainty for God and His Son. A workman of God must show diligence and application to the harmonious teaching of the Word of God (v15). But Timothy must also shun the shallow and false teachers, whose words make shipwreck of faith. The specific teachings of Hymenaeus and Philetus were to say that there would be no future resurrection - perhaps they had been corrupted by the pagan Greek philosophy of the immortality of the soul. In verse 19 the Apostle twice cites the Old Testament - 1) "God's firm foundation stands, bearing this seal, 'The Lord knows who are his'" (ESV); and 2) "Let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from iniquity" (ESV). The Almighty has vessels suitable for humble purposes and also for grander occasions. Timothy is counselled to flee youthful passions; and rather to earnestly pursue (Greek - as though hunting a hostile enemy that must be destroyed cp Psalm 34verses14; where the Hebrew word "pursue" is of identical meaning) righteousness, faith, love and peace together with all similar purehearted believers. Timothy must exercise the utmost patience to all in the hope that God might cause even those who are contentious to acknowledge (Greek 'epignosis' i.e. what we do about the knowledge that has been gained from God's Word - knowledge which impels correct action) the Truth. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Verses 1-26 contains the names of the priests and Levites who were present at the dedication of the wall. From verses 27-43 the service of dedication is described by Nehemiah. Two choirs one led by Ezra and the other by Nehemiah start off together from the Dung Gate in opposite directions and meet halfway around the wall at the Water Gate and as they walked around they were rejoicing and singing the words of David's psalm of Thanksgiving. This Psalm was first sung at the bringing of the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem in the time of Davidverses 1 Chronicles 16verses8-36. The concluding verses of the chapter tell us of the service at the temple with further songs of thanksgiving and praise as well as the distribution of portions most likely from the thanksgiving and peace offerings to the priests, the Levites, the singers and the Gatekeepers. Amos 4 tells derisively and contemptuously the extreme avarice and control the sisters of the community of God had over their husbands. In verses 2-3 the LORD says that He cannot ignore such ruthless and callous behaviour, but will take them away by the Assyrian invaders, who will lead them with fishhooks. In verses 4-5 with rich irony, they are invited to Bethel - the house of God - to sin. Verses 6-11 outline the methods of chastisement sent one after another upon them, sadly these were all without any effect. Firstly, the withholding of rain and famine; secondly, blight and mildew on their crops; thirdly, locust plagues; fourthly, disease and destruction by the sword. God saw them as a stick in the fire and He used every known effort to pluck them out of the fireverses Jude verses 22-23. But the nation of Israel remains as unresponsive to Divine correction as Sodom and Gomorrah. For these reasons the nation must now prepare to face Yahweh in judgment. What a daunting prospect this would prove to be given His awesome and unlimited power. 2 Timothy is the last letter the Apostle Paul writes. The Apostle has been hunted throughout the Roman world as a criminal, and then taken to Rome and placed in a cold dark cell awaiting execution by beheading. The year is 63-64 AD. The fire which destroys half of the buildings in Rome was blamed on the Christians by Nero; and Paul as a recognised ringleader of the hated sect is to be made the chief scapegoat. The introduction to this letter additionally contains the greeting of mercy (to grace and peace) which start all the letters before the Apostle's second imprisonment; excepting Philemon which is a personal letter. As one gets older one becomes even more conscious of the need for Divine mercy - for without it we are all doomed. The words of this letter are Paul's last and chosen very carefully to warn and advise. The first great charge was to safeguard the deposit of the sound teachings which were believed. Timothy's love of the truth goes back to his mother and grandmother (Lois and Eunice). Timothy had been given the gift of prophecy by the laying on of the hands of the elders. Paul encourages this faithful young man to stir up that gift and to be invigorated to enthusiastically testify as to what Timothy knew to be true. What a hope he has embraced and he stands unshakable in his conviction that, "Jesus Christ had abolished death and brought life (Zoe) and immortality (deathlessness) to light through the gospel" (v10). Timothy is exhorted to follow the great example of faith and love that had been lived out and constantly exhibited by Paul. The Apostle says that he has fathered Timothy in the gospel. Sadly, in Paul's time of needing support he is abandoned by many. Paul names two in particular - Phygellus and Hermogenes - as foremost in his abandonment. But he commends Onesiphorus, who appears to have been killed for his going to Rome to aid the aged and suffering Apostle.

Nehemiah 11 gives the names of those returned exiles who live in Jerusalem and those who live in the surrounding villages. Their names and the work for which they are responsible is very important in the Bible. Those in Jerusalem include priests, Levites and singers; gatekeepers (all of those were very important roles for the worshipping of the nation). From the villages particular mention is made of the craftsmen who despite the great difficulty in building put themselves and their families in peril because of their love for their brothers and sisters and for their God. Amos 3 tells of the close and unique relationship God has with His people, Israel. This means that the nation had a great responsibility to Him, as their Father; and that He would chastise them for ignoring His commandments. Sadly, the nation of Israel by their actions in joining themselves to their idols had severed their association and agreement with their Sovereign. Israel was walking in the opposite direction than what He asks of them. Four analogies are provided of cause and effect. The lion roars when the prey is caught; the fowler does not take up a trap until he has snared a bird; fear comes upon a person when the warning trumpet sounds an alarm; likewise, the Lord GOD will not send chastisement without first warning His people via His servants, the prophets. Yahweh would roar in visiting His people with the consequences of their actions. The prophet says the surrounding nations will see the justice of the LORD's judgments. It seems that because of Israel's covetousness it is impossible for them to act justly. The. accumulated wealth of the rich will always justifiably attract plunder (cp Romans 2verses2-11; James 5verses1-6). Bethel was the place where the worshipping of God had in the past been central to the nation's instruction in the ways of God. This city, which means "the House of God" will be laid waste. 1 Timothy 6 says that servants must honourably bear the responsibility of faithful service. The chapter next sounds a warning against false teachers and this is followed by one of the greatest, and possibly the hardest, lesson to learn - i.e. that godliness with contentment is the greatest profit a believer can have in life. We can take nothing with us when we die. All that is important is the legacy that the Almighty sees - a life of devotion to Him and service to others - a life rich in good works. To pursue any other course is a guarantee of frustration and sorrow (just as Balaam found out). Verse 10 tells us, "the love of money" (Greek "philaguros" - literally "lover of silver" which has in Greek the numeric value of 666) is 'a root of all kinds of evil'. In verses 11-16 Timothy (and each believer) is urged to fight the fight of faith following the example of the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave a faithful witness before Pontius Pilate - costing our Lord Jesus his life. Jesus will, on his return to earth, set up the glorious kingdom of God demonstrating the power and honour of the King Invisible (God the Almighty Father) and the benefits that will come to those who live life by this guide. The letter concludes with a reminder to safeguard the deposit which had been committed to Timothy and a charge to the rich to avoid pride. The rich are counselled to use their God given resources to benefit others (the lesson being based on the life of Hezekiah cp 2 Kings 20verses12-16). Let us learn godliness with contentment; richness in faith and loving works to others - pause and ponder.

The Life Of Christ # 111 Beware of Covetousness by John Martin_1

Verses 1-27 of Nehemiah 10 tell the names of those who signed the covenant. Verses 28-39 outline the responsibilities and obligations of the covenant. The first of the obligations was to not marry uncovenanted wives (i.e. those of different beliefs to those taught in His Law by the God of Israel). Responsibility 2 was to observe the Sabbath by preventing the buying and selling of goods. The third necessity was to pay their tithes and offerings for the house of God. And finally come together for the three principal feasts to rejoice in their God; and with those of like precious faith. Amos 2 commenced with judgments on Israel's neighbours for their sins and now from verses 6-16 the prophet states the sins for which Israel will be chastised. Firstly, those whose covetousness and callousness knows no limits; secondly, those whose uncontrolled sexual appetites were insatiable; thirdly, their boastfulness - the word Amorite comes from the Hebrew "amor" meaning mouth; fourthly, their corrupting of God's laws i.e. giving the Nazarites wine to drink. And so "as they had sown, so they would reap" and not be able to resist the severe coming judgment. 1 Timothy 4 commences with signposts which mark out the coming departure from true teachings - 1) a belief in evil and deceitful spirits; 2) a celibate clergy forbidden marriage; 3) the refraining from eating certain foods e.g. meat on Fridays and during Lent leading up to Easter - all foods are for our eating as long as we have offered a prayer of thanksgiving before eating. In verses 6-10 we have the third faithful   saying, "bodily exercise is of some value, but godliness (Greek "eusebia" - good, or well worship) is profitable in every way, benefiting present daily life, and offering the hope of eternal life in the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ". It is essential that believers be reminded of the necessity to be pure in thought, word and action. Such diligence will save both the teacher and the hearer alike. In chapter 5 we are told the type of respect to be shown to elderly believers. Next follows instructions on the proper treatment of widows. It tells families to show their commitment and care for the widows before requesting aid from the ecclesia. However, widows whose faith and actions stand as a witness to their commitment to Christ Jesus and His Father should be supported in their needs. Older members of the flock of God who have diligently proclaimed the Word of God must be honoured (compare Hebrews 13verses7, 17). Those whose words and actions show a failure to continue in the beliefs and behaviour of the Truth are to be openly rebuked. Be careful in the choice of those commissioned to faithful service. Timothy should drink wine moderately for reasons of health. Sometimes the faithfulness of some believers is evident; and sometimes the wrongdoing of believers is seen. But not always. Beware of hypocrisy, but be assured it will be unmasked in the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Nehemiah 9 speaks of the covenant that the people made with their God. It is written down, sealed and is a binding covenant on which the nation signed their names indicating their commitment to it. The fasting people come in sackcloth repentantly before their God and spend three hours confessing their sins. In his prayer/discourse Nehemiah rehearses God's faithfulness and loving kindness encompassing Israel's entire history. Nehemiah focusses on pivotal incidents which demonstrate that Yahweh is in control and is working powerfully on their behalf. The events show Israel's faithlessness and their forsaking of God for idols. The LORD never stopped warning them through the ministrations of His prophets. For these reasons the rulers bind themselves in covenant and seal it in the presence of witnesses. The prophecy of Amos tells us that the events described commence two years before the earthquake - i.e. from BC 688. This is a time of great prosperity for the northern kingdom now ruled by Jeroboam   2. Amos 1verses 2-2verses5 speaks of judgment upon Israel's surrounding nations i.e. her neighbours. In all of the judgments the Almighty gives reasons as to why He has brought punishment. The reason for the chastisement of each nation is clearly stated. In the stanza about themselves the text reads, "For three transgressions and for four I (God says) will bring judgment on..." This form of language is a Hebrew language device of the formverses (for (number X) and for number (X+1) ...". It is known as ascending numeration. This style is frequently used in the prophecies of Amos and Micah. The personal letter of Paul to his son in the faith, Timothy, is written from Rome during the Apostle Paul's first imprisonment (during his house arrest of two years) between 61-63 AD. The standard greeting of the Greeks "charis" - "grace"; and of the Hebrews, "shalom" - "peace", or "wholeness"; begin the letter. Verses 3-11 warn against false teachers. The Apostle starts with genealogies because the false teachers were asserting to their hearers the importance which they placed on their own lineage. Law is a necessity for humans are, by weakness and choice, sinners. From verses 12-17 the Apostle Paul states the first of five faithful sayings, written in the pastoral letters of 1 and 2 Timothy; and Titus. The first of these sayings is that "Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners". Paul acknowledges that he is one of the foremost in this category, because he persecuted believers. In verses 18-20 Timothy is entrusted with the "charge" - Greek "deposit" i.e. solemn responsibility) to oppose false teachers and their teachings. In chapter 2verses1-6 Timothy is told to pray for all people so that believers may be allowed to worship God in peace. Paul states that God is the Father alone. He further adds that the Lord Jesus Christ is the Son of the Father, whose offering of himself brings believers to God. From verses 8-15 there are explanations about the right way to worship God. These include sincere prayer from dedicated believers; modesty in all aspects of appearance - avoiding drawing attention to oneself in the wearing of jewellery and in the wearing of immodest clothing. The Apostle says that in the meetings of believers that sisters acknowledge their God appointed roles by the wearing of a head covering and by allowing the men to teach. Nonetheless the sisters bearing of children is fulfilling (if by circumstances they are able) a God given role. A sister, Mary, gave birth to our Saviour. In chapter 3verses1 the Apostle gives the second faithful saying, "those aspiring to guiding believers have chosen a noble path". Verses 2-7 speak of the qualifications for an overseer (bishop), or guide of believers. Verses 8-13 outline the requirements for deacons (assistant guides for believers). Verses 14-16 talk about God and contain the great truth of the gospel that Jesus Christ is the pillar and foundation of the temple of faithful believers. Christ has revealed to all believers the character and traits of our Sovereign Father. Pivotal to understanding the gospel is a grasp of the doctrine of God manifestation. God was revealed in Christ who has revealed the character and attributes of his Father. Having done that, the Father then welcomes His Son to join Him in heaven. It seems that the Apostle Paul's thoughts may be based on Daniel 6verses19-26. Read aloud, pause and ponder. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Nehemiah 8 tells us that as Ezra read the Law of Moses from dawn to midday to the people standing and listening attentively for it was God's Word that was being read and explained with diligence. The people's response in verse 8 was a loud and audible, "Amen, Amen". Ezra urges the people, not to weep but, to rejoice in God's Word as they together share His blessings. Then the chapter says that they kept the Feast of Booths (or Tabernacles) for seven days and then on the 8th day they observe a solemn assembly (Hebrew "holy convocation"). This day is in the Law of Moses only once named - and is known as "Shemini Azaret", or "the day of the righteous" - speaking of eternal life in God's kingdom. Joel 3 tells of the time that will soon come at the time of the end of the kingdom of men. At this time the Lord Jesus Christ will come and set up the kingdom of God on this earth (Revelation 11verses15-19). The great battle of God Almighty is "Armageddon" in Revelation 16verses14-16, - those verses are taken from what we are told in Joel 3. These events were only possible in recent years, because the start of Joel 3 tells us that Israel must be back in their own land with Jerusalem as their capital city. Armageddon will be a time for God's judgments on the nations for their sinfulness and ungodliness and on those nations who that have wrongfully treated His people - Israel. It will be a time for war - a holy war, in fact. The word translated "prepare" in verse 8 means a jihad, or holy war. Verse 10 speaks of a time when the economies of the world are turned from agriculture to war i.e. precisely what we see now. The time that follows will be of peace in the kingdom of Messiah - our Lord Jesus Christ (read Isaiah 2verses1-4; and Micah 4verses1-5). Verse 12 of Joel 3 is where Armageddon is mentioned in the Old Testament. The judgment of the nations is likened to the harvesting of the grain with a scythe (or sickle); it is also compared to the harvesting of the vine and crushing grapes in a winepress. In 2 Thessalonians 3 Paul asks for the believers' prayers that he might be helped to freely teach the gospel without hindrance. From verses 6-15 the Apostle urges the Macedonian faithful to keep working and avoiding idleness. Many had ceased working because they mistakenly thought that the coming of Jesus Christ was so close that they didn't need to work. Idle brothers had to learn to heed the advice contained in this letter. In the last two verses the Apostle Paul asks God to give the believers peace. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Verses 1-4 of Nehemiah 7 tells us that although the walls of Jerusalem had been rebuilt the houses had not yet been built. This left the city unprotected. From verses 5-65 the genealogies of the entire 42,360 returned exiles was recorded, with more than half of those verses being about the priests, the Levites and the Nethenim - indicating the importance of these to the newly reconstituted kingdom of Judah. It was essential that the credentials of a priest descended from Aaron be established for correct worship. The remaining verses record the gifts given by the people for worship. Joel 2 records the progress of the unstoppable Babylonian army. They are described as Yahweh's army, who are to execute his judgements on the "day of Yahweh". From verses 12-17 recorded an impassioned plea to return to their God. They needed to "rend their hearts, and not their clothes" (v13) for their Sovereign's loving kindness, grace and mercy have never left the One who so revealed Himself to Moses in Exodus 34verses6-7. So, if their LORD found a repentant people He would bless them. Those blessings are described in verses 18-27. They would see God's people eternally blessed. From verses 28-32 we have outlined for us how Yahweh would bring that blessing through the work of the Holy Spirit outpoured at the times of the Lord Jesus Christ- the Messiah of Israel, who would bring salvation to all - Jews and Gentiles alike on the basis of faith (or belief) starting in Jerusalem (Mount Zion). Compare this chapter to Acts 2verses14-41 and Romans 10verses8-17. The greetings and salutations commencing 2 Thessalonians are identical to Paul's other letters except for the pastoral epistles (1 Timothy; 2 Timothy; Titus). In chapter 1 verses 3-4 the Apostle thanks God for the Thessalonican brothers and sisters, whose faith was growing and their love increasing. Despite persecution they were steadfast for the gospel. From verses 5-12 Paul urges for that patience to continue for it will receive the promised reward at the second coming, and kingdom, of our Lord Jesus Christ. Our   Lord when he comes with the angels will also avenge his faithful. The persecutors of the believers will then receive what they deserve. Chapter 2 tells that before the Lord will come there will be a huge forsaking of the true belief and a system of deceit, which pretends to be the truth will arise in the earth. The words translated "falling away" and "lawlessness" both in the Greek language have the numerical value of 666 (compare Revelation 13verses16-18). From the other identifying features in this chapter and those within the book of Revelation tells us that this is the Roman Catholic Church with the Pope as its head. Note that the delusion which allowed this system to develop came about because those who fell away "received not the love of the Truth" (v10). From verses 13-17 the Apostle urges them to stand firm for the faith. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Nehemiah 5 records the actions of Nehemiah the prophet to remove the suffering of the poor whose lands and vineyards had been mortgaged and their children sold into slavery. Nehemiah holds a great assembly and challenges the rulers to forsake their iniquitous practices. And so, the congregation agrees to restore to their families the sons and daughters who had been enslaved. Also, fields and vineyards are returned to their original owners. Governor Nehemiah received no taxes from the people despite his entitlement to do so. Verses 14-19 outline the Governor's - Nehemiah's - generous provision from his table every day for 12 years out of his own pocket. Nehemiah calls upon God to witness his love and generosity to Yahweh's people. Chapter 6 speaks of the conspiracy against Nehemiah from the enemies surrounding Israel. These foes seek a meeting with the Governor in the open plain where they would attempt to assassinate him. Nehemiah refuses and tells them that he would not stop doing God's work. Four times they try this tactic. Next the adversaries come with an open letter spreading lies about   Nehemiah. This also fails. The enemies claim Nehemiah wants to make himself king. The faithful Governor takes the letter and spreads it out before God and prays for God's help and support. The next tactic of Nehemiah's foes is to threaten assassination. This too fails to intimidate God's faithful servant and the work of building the walls continues. Nehemiah asks God to remember and deal with the enemies. And so, the wall is completed in 52 days, because the hand of the Almighty is with his people. One of the great lessons of these chapters is to remain focused on God's work and the building up of His family and to avoid any distractions that might arise. The prophet Joel speaks his message just before the four waves of Babylonian invasions on Judah and the deporting to Babylon of exiles from the Land on each of these incursions. The first of these happens under the king of Babylon (Nebuchadnezzar) in 606 BC. The final overthrow of the southern kingdom of Judah; with its capital Jerusalem, was in 587 BC. The invasion is described by the four stages of the locust - each stage more voracious in appetite than the previous stage. Verse 6 tells us that the devastation of God's land is due to one nation - Babylon. Notice the symbols of Israel are portrayed in the vine and the fig tree. These are consumed by Nebuchadnezzar. The virgin of Israel languishes due to her chastisement. Verses 13-20 tell of a call to repentance for the nation of Judah, will feel the wrath of the LORD in "the day of Yahweh" (a theme often repeated in this prophecy). Our final reading in 1 Thessalonians 5 reminds us that the Scriptures provide graphic detail of the times (Greek 'chronos' which God has explicitly revealed through His Scriptures and particularly in His prophetic word) and that He has adjusted i.e. patterned the world's eras around His Son, the Christ (Hebrews 11verses1). Time in this chapter is made up of longer periods called "times" and shorter periods known as "seasons". The shorter seasons characterised by specific signs compel us to believe that our Lord's coming is imminent (Luke 21verses24-36). These signs urge us to watchfulness and to lives that are consistent with us being the children of the DAY. That is the day soon to dawn when the sun of righteousness will arise with healing (Malachi 4verses1). We are exhorted us to lives consistent with the character required of the children of our Father in verses 4-11. The chapter concludes with patterns of behaviour befitting the children of the kingdom (cp 2 Peter 3verses10-18). Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Nehemiah 4 tells of the mockery that comes from the Jews' enemies in an attempt to discourage them from the work of building the wall. Nehemiah makes it a matter of prayer to his God. Likewise, the people of the LORD were not diverted from the work. The enemies next threaten sabotage and open attack upon the rebuilding work. This too fails because of Nehemiah's diligence and the measures he takes for constant surveillance and the protection of the builders. Nehemiah places each family working on the wall directly in front of their home. Each worker works with a weapon in one hand. Hosea 14 tells of a plea to Israel to return to Yahweh. The nation needs to consider why they had been smitten and to find suitable words to request God's healing and forgiveness. Then the Almighty's anger will be turned away. In poetic language the prophet describes how blessings will return to Israel. In forsaking idolatry and learning the just and upright ways of Yahweh the faithful will thrive and experience the bountiful blessings of our Lord Jesus Christ's coming kingdom. 1 Thessalonians 3verses1-5 Paul tells us of the sufferings that the Apostle experienced in Athens. Next Paul informs his readers of the great encouragement and comfort that Timothy brings him; and it is the news of the Thessalonians' magnificent response to the gospel. Note how the chapter finishes - read aloud verses 12-13 and pause, and ponder. Chapter 4 speaks of how pleased God and Paul are with the way that the believers are living their lives as a witness to their faith and to their trust in God and His Son. The love the Macedonian believers show to each other is evidence that they have learned what God's Word teaches. They needed to keep working until the Lord Jesus' return. These believers did, however, have a wrong view about the order of events after the Lord's return. The living believers will have no time advantage over those faithful who had fallen asleep in Christ i.e. died. Verses 13-18 describe what happens at Christ's return to the earth. Jesus will come with angels and the trumpet of God (1 Corinthians 15verses52-53). Those believers who are alive when he comes will be caught up together with those believers who have been raised from the dead, into a great cloud of witnesses (see Hebrews 12verses1- 2). These believers will be caught into the air i.e. aerial, in the sense that, together with their Lord Jesus Christ, they will be the rulers (or those elevated to be in authority) over the people of the earth - i.e. the subjects of that coming kingdom. What a comfort to those who are now suffering persecution. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Nehemiah 3 tells the readers of Judah's consecrating of the gates and the rebuilding of the wall. It contains lists of who built, and why they built. All classes from professional craftsmen (goldsmiths) to common labourers worked - including the high priest Eliashib and his 5 daughters. Sadly, it also listed some, such as the nobles of the Tekoites, who to their shame failed to become involved in the building of the wall. Hosea 13 tells of the LORD's relentless watching over Israel (v7) "like a leopard by the way". Their idolatry would be visited with chastisement, as of a devouring lion. The king they sought in their beginnings - Saul was given by God in His anger and taken away in His wrath. The same remained true for every king from Israel (the northern kingdom). However, the loving kindness of Yahweh is stated in verse 14, which is cited with regards to the blessings of the resurrection in 1 Corinthians 15verses54-55. But for the time being their discipline remained a necessity. Paul's first visit to the Thessalonians (in Macedonia) was perhaps around 51 AD. The letter commenced with "grace" (Greek ‘charis' - love) and "peace" (Hebrew ‘shalom' - wholeness, or peace), which come from God, our Father. As a group of Christian believers, the Macedonians were severely persecuted, like their fellow Jewish believers in Judea - many of them being put to death for their beliefs. The Thessalonians were, however, extremely generous in financially contributing to Paul's preaching - especially the Philippians. The central message of both letters is the second coming of Jesus Christ to set up the kingdom of God on earth. Every chapter of both letters refers to this - some chapters containing several references (in the Bible we find over 500 references to the second coming of Jesus Christ). Their   love and labours for the Truth were exemplary to all believers. Note verse 9 refers to their belief in "the Living God" and cites not only the verse in Jeremiah 10verses10, but the whole context of Jeremiah 10 was relevant to the situation of the Thessalonian believers. Chapter 2 speaks of the love of Paul, Silas, Timothy and Titus among them. Interestingly the name Titus means "nurse", or "rearer". Paul worked to support his companions' needs and for the preaching of the gospel. The Apostle commends the believers for their patience in suffering persecution. Finally, he expresses a desire to see them again and says that in the day of Christ's coming their acceptance of the gospel would be his victor's crown (Greek 'stephanos'). Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow