Christadelphians Talk

Joshua 22 speaks of the tribes of Reuben, Gad and Manasseh returning to their inheritance east of the River Jordan following their active armed service west of the river. Verses 1-9 tell of these tribes receiving their allotments before the other ten tribes fought for their territory after crossing into the Promised Land. Verse 4 explains how the LORD had now given rest to the tribes of Israel now occupying the Canaanite lands. The three tribes were given thanks and sent home to their own lands. Verses 10-34 describe how easily a misunderstanding between brothers can occur. Not wanting the children of the three tribes east of the Jordan – Reuben, Gad and half of Manasseh – to have their children growing up in the belief that they have nothing in common with the children of the tribes on the western side of the river Jordan; an altar was built near the common border of both groups. The purpose of the altar was to direct the minds of those tribes on the east to the need for united worship of Israel's God within the Promised Land. Without asking why the altar was constructed Phinehas summons the army of the western tribes to go up to fight against their eastern brethren. It was a case of being over zealous and of a failure to ask before acting. However, eventually enquiry was made – this should have happened before the army was mustered. The purpose of the altar was explained by their eastern brothers. When this was understood war was averted and all went home (presumably wiser for the experience). The altar was allowed to remain and was named “Witness” for the reason explained in verse 34. Isaiah 28 is an indictment against the drunks in the fat valleys of Ephraim. Verses 2-4 speak of the Almighty's judgments on these proud men. Verses 5-6 say that these judgments will vindicate the just. Verses 7-9 describe the disgusting scene of these drunkards. Verse 10 is a drunken ditty that speaks of the vile attitude with which these drunkards held the Word of God in contempt. The Word of the LORD was to these many tiresome – precept after precept and line upon line – it was a monotonous and repetitive and burdensome requirement. For this attitude Israel's Sovereign would bring against the nation the Assyrians whose language was like a stuttering speech to the Israelites says verses 11-13. However the message of the prophecy is encapsulated in verse 16; that the Almighty would lay in Zion a precious cornerstone which would be the foundation for saving faithful believers in the Lord Jesus Christ. This basis was established by the sinless life of Jesus and the final pouring out of his life as a sacrifice on the stake on which he was crucified. God would judge the contemptuous Israelites who made a covenant with death. Yahweh would sweep away the lies that were the basis of the lives of those evil doers. There would be no means of escaping for the wicked. Verse 20 is an interesting metaphor describing the guilty's inability to become comfortable. This would be because these wrongdoers had set themselves against God. Verses 23-29 use a series of word pictures which explain that the proper process must be used in harvesting (a symbol of judgment). And the right tool must be chosen for the correct job. The Omnipotent Creator knew exactly what He was doing and would use the best method to judge the wicked and a specially raised up Son to save the faithful. Chapter 11 of Hebrews is about “by faith”: what can be accomplished; chapter 12 “with hope” :patiently enduring; chapter 13 “in love” the abiding overarching necessity for believers – these 3 (compare 1 Corinthians 13:13; Galatians 5:5-6)). 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 ie 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 (51:1-2). 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 6:13-20). 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).

Joshua 20 speaks of the cities of refuge where the person who had accidentally killed another person is provided asylum until guilt, or innocence is determined. The process of determining innocence, or guilt, is outlined in verses 4-6. Verses 7-8 name the six cities of refuge, three on the western side of Jordan in Canaan and three east of Jordan. The three Western cities are Kedesh, Shechem and Hebron. The three cities to the east are Bezer, Ramoth and Golan. Although not officially a city of refuge Jerusalem was another. Verse 9 restates the purpose of these cities. In the days of Solomon when he gave charge to Shimei we find Solomon treating Jerusalem as a city when Solomon told Shimei that leaving that city would mean Shimei's life would be forfeited. Joshua 21 describes the 48 cities of the Levites who were distributed throughout the land to provide access for every Israelite to the teaching of God. The cities are named and their locations given. These cities were surrounded by fields to assist in the support of the Levites.. Verses 43-45 tell us that these cities were established after the Word of the LORD had been fulfilled, after Israel possessed the Promised Land and God's people had entered their rest. This rest is symbolic of the kingdom rest when all will truly have rest from the effects of sin. The writer to the Hebrews speaks of this in Hebrews 4 verses 9-11. Read slowly, pause and ponder. Picking up our train of thought from yesterday: why did God allow Isaiah these visions of hope such as those in chapters 2, 6, 25-27, 40 etc? We are told the reason in 1 Peter 1 verses 7-12 read carefully and contemplate. The prophet is given a glimpse of the peace and faithfulness that will be evident when Messiah's kingdom comes. Chapters 26-27 speak of redemption and the singing of the song of redemption in the land of Judah when Christ's kingdom is established in the land. Chapter 26 speaks of the song and of those who will sing it from experience and with understanding. The song is told to us in verses 1-19. The place of the singing of the song is Jerusalem. In the history of this city, whose name means “vision of peace”, 27 major wars have been waged. Note from the song's beginning the focus is on salvation and peace. Verse 1 says that the strength of the city's defence – its walls and bulwarks – were in trusting of Yahweh Elohim of Israel. Verse 2 explains the requirements of a citizen who can dwell there – righteousness and truth – Psalms 15 and 24 elaborate. The result of trusting in the LORD will be perfect peace: Hebrew Shalom Shalom – peace peace ie absolute peace. For Israel's Omnipotent Sovereign is, verse 4, “the Rock of Ages” – the source of immovable and eternal security. Verses 5-6 tell us God's mighty acts at both the international and personal level. In verses 7-9 tell of the prophet's own yearnings for this time. Verses 10-11 tell of the anguish of the righteous for the contempt the wicked have for the Almighty. Verse 12 confesses Isaiah's confidence that the righteous will not act in that way. Verses 13-19 contrast the fate of the ignorant and wicked with that of the understanding and faithful. The wicked will perish the righteous will be preserved. The wicked will sleep perpetually – Jeremiah 51:39, 57; but the righteous will be raised from the dead and live forever- Isaiah 26:19: clearly teaching resurrection. Verses 20-23 are a call for the righteous to hide while the LORD protects them until the time of judgment passes. Isaiah 27 describes Israel's redemption from all oppression and the Almighty's hand being upon her foes to punish them for their evils. The enemies of Israel are poetically portrayed as a crocodile in verse 1. In verses 2-5 the Jewish nation is described as Yahweh's vineyard. The same metaphor is used by the Lord Jesus Christ in several parables. Verses 6-11 speak of the attitude of restored Israel following God's disciplining of them. Verse 12-13 describe the nation of Israel's deliverance from the two great superpowers of that time: Egypt and Assyria. In Hebrews 10 the writer continues the theme of Christ's “better” offerings. Verses 1-18 show that by a single offering, effective for all time, our Lord brought to end all sacrifices under the law of Moses. The writer reminded the readers that the law was but a shadow, whose sacrifices (v4) could never take away sin. So verses 5-7 quote Psalm 40, which says that, the will of the Son of God was to do what the Father desired ( the Hebrew of verse 8 can be translated in one of two ways, “I will to do Thy will”, or alternatively, “I desire to do Thy desire” – see Matthew 26:39). The writer has quoted from the Septuagint (Greek Old Testament) which differs slightly from the Hebrew text. The Hebrew of Psalm 40 says that Messiah is the knob that allows the scroll to be unravelled (see Revelation 5:1-8). The Greek LXX translation, on the other hand implies that, if you try to remove Christ from the Old Testament you have no book (Bible). This message was crucial to the writer's readers who were being threatened by the circumstances in which the believers in Jerusalem found themselves. Therefore through the doing of God's will by our Lord Jesus Christ, they, as well as we have been cleansed once for all time. Whereas the priests under the law stood, Christ our High Priest sits at His Father's right hand. Christ Jesus is awaiting the time when he will be sent to establish his kingdom on earth, as Psalm 110 prophesied. Jeremiah 31 likewise indicated the same message. Verses 19-39 teach us that with a confident hope we can approach our Heavenly Father. All this has only been made possible because of our Lord Jesus Christ's perfect life, offering and resurrection. Those watchwords of resolution are again used, “Let us …”. The word “faith” (AV is the Greek “elpis”, or “hope”). Again v24, “Let us” assemble together as often as we are able to encourage one another in the confident expectation of our Master's return. Verses 26-31 tell us that failure to do this may lead to continuing in sin, which is equivalent to a total rejection of what was achieved in the offering of himself by our Lord Jesus Christ. These verses are about deliberate public renunciation of the truth associated with the rejection of assembling with the brothers and sisters of Christ. Verses 32-39 is a reminder to the readers of what sufferings they had endured when they had become believers in Christ. That suffering had provided them with a “better” and abiding hope. Not in any way a vain hope if they now continued to endure with patience. For the Scripture had said, “Yet a little while, and the coming one will come and will not delay; but my righteous one will live by faith, and if he shrinks back, My soul has no pleasure in him” (verses 37-38 ESV quoting from Habakkuk 2 verses 4-5). The concluding verses take us back to Hebrews 1. The writer to the Hebrews constantly affirms that the Hebrew believers would not shrink away from the hope that they had embraced in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Joshua 19 tells of the inheritances of Simeon, Zebulon, Issachar, Asher, Naphtali and Dan; as well as Joshua's personal allocation. Simeon was the second eldest of Israel's sons so this allotment was to be the next chosen by lot. Verses 1-9 describe the territories and cities given to Simeon. These portions are in the Negev – the southern part of Canaan. Verses 10-16 outline Zebulon's allotted lands and the twelve cities in that portion. Verses 17-23 describe Issachar's allocation and the sixteen cities within this allotment. Verses 24-31 tell of Asher's portion in the north of the land like Zebulon's allotment and also of Naphtali. Those two tribes were the subjects of enlightenment by the gospel message, spoken of in Isaiah 9 and preached by our Lord Jesus Christ during his ministry, which was chiefly in Galilee. The city of Cabul, mentioned in verse 27, was given by king Solomon to Hiram, king of Tyre. Hiram saw them as a disagreeable present. Verses 32-39 speak of Naphtali's inheritance with its nineteen cities. Verses 40-48 tell of Dan's lands. In the numbering of the sealed disciples from each tribe (Revelation 7) we find that Dan is omitted. Possibly as Dan became a source of idolatry and apostacy within the Promised Land. Verses 49-51 reveal Joshua's inheritance in the hill country of Ephraim, which Joshua had requested from Moses and was granted by Yahweh's command. Isaiah 25 is a remarkable chapter in which God promises to swallow death in victory. It is like the interspersed empowering visions that we find throughout the book of Revelation. The purpose of this chapter, found often in the scriptures is to give the faithful believers a vision of the great promise of the Almighty to His children that He is fully in control and no matter how disconcerting the raging of the nations are in their troubled sea God will give His children peace and assurance (compare Isaiah 26:1-4). Isaiah 25:1-2 explain that his Sovereign's acts cause the prophet to praise his God. Verses 3-5 say that the LORD's protection of the poor and His defence of His people when facing destruction from the powerful oppressors brings them to extol Him. Verses 6-9 tell us that in that time of distress; in that place of insecurity and apparent hopelessness; there is no need to fear. Yahweh will because of His faithfulness without fail deliver His people. Their greatest enemy – death – will not swallow them. Rather will our Omnipotent Sovereign swallow death itself in victory – 1 Corinthians 15:50-58. How motivated are we to strive indefatigably to serve our God with all our might, all strength, all our heart and with every fibre of our being? Hosea gives a similar message: Hosea 13:14. Both these passages are united in the great message by the Apostle in the teachings he has given to us in 1 Corinthians 15. Slowly read aloud Isaiah 25:9 and pause and ponder its power for you. The chapter finishes with the mighty acts of the LORD exercised on behalf of His children. Hebrews 8 tells of Jesus the High Priest administering a “better” covenant. What majestic language the writer uses to start this chapter. Jesus is seated at His Father's right hand – called “the throne of the Majesty in heaven” (V1 ESV). Our Lord Jesus serves in the true tent pitched by God, and not man (he was, by miraculous begettal “the Son of God”). The Tabernacle was typical and the man gifted by God for the fabricating of that tent was Aholiab (meaning in Hebrew “from the Father's tent”) Christ as our heavenly High Priest has both offered sacrifices and given great gifts. The Exodus record twice tells us that Moses was to make the Tabernacle after the pattern which was shown to him in the Mount. The covenant Christ mediates has been founded on “better” promises. The writer cites Jeremiah 31:31-34 in verses 8-12 of chapter 8. The concluding verses take us back to chapter 1, which cited Psalm 102:25-26 indicating that Messiah would end the Mosaic covenant (the “heavens” being there mentioned). Verses 1-10 of chapter 9 speak of the earthly (typical) sanctuary – the Tabernacle. This was set up for Israel's worship, in a holy place where the comers thereto could have their minds centred on divine matters. The writer firstly describes the Holy Place in v2. From verses 3-5 we are taken beyond the veil into the Holy of Holies ie Most Holy Place. Some, wrongly believe, that the writer has here made a mistake in placing the incense altar in the Most Holy: thus for one day each year the incense altar was the Most Holy Place. On the Day of Atonement (the only day in which the High Priest was allowed into the Most Holy) incense had to fill the Most Holy before the High Priest was allowed to enter – “lest he (the High Priest) die”. And every other day the sweet incense of prayer permeated the Holy of Holies (Revelation 8:3-4). Whilst the Tabernacle, and later the Temple, were operating they had a status; but, when Jesus died and the veil separating the Holy and Most Holy Place was rent from top to bottom, it could not function any longer. Those former structures being only the shadow and not the reality, are no longer needed. Christ, the believer's High Priest, is there, in heaven for us. From verses 11-28, of chapter 9, the writer explains how we have redemption through what was achieved in Jesus' offering of himself on the tree (cross). One offering for all time of himself has opened the way for salvation. The offering of bulls and calves provided ritual forgiveness, on the condition that the person making the offering understood what God was teaching (the law was a teacher to bring worshippers to an understanding of Jesus' sacrifice – Galatians 3:23-26). But the Law of Moses could never cleanse the conscience of the offerer – since it was the sin of each person that was atoned for, and by the slaying of an animal – incapable of sinning (as it didn't have a nature which prompts sin) our conscience is cleansed. So by our identification with Jesus' offering, as one of us (and representing us in every respect; as the earlier chapters of the book explain – particularly chapters 2, 4 and 5).; we have been given a clear conscience. But the understanding of what Jesus has done on our behalf powerfully motivates us to forsake and turn from our sins to right ways. The old covenant was ratified by the death of animals; but the covenant in Christ, is brought into force by the death and RESURRECTION of our Lord. Verse 22 of chapter 9 states an eternal principle, “Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins” (ESV). And so Christ's “better” sacrifice has brought us nearer to God. All this by one perfect offering. Verses 27-28 tell us that having dealt with the problem of sin in his first advent, our Lord Jesus will destroy it for ever at his second coming. For Christ no longer is burdened by a nature biased towards sin, but in a sinless immortal body he will do the eradicate sin for every believer (see 1 Corinthians 15:13-28). Read aloud, pause and ponder.

Joshua 18-19 tell of the inheritances of the other seven tribes and of Joshua's own in the Land promised to the nation's fathers of faith. With Israel assembled at Shiloh with the Tabernacle of the congregation spies were sent out to report on the rest of the land to be allotted. Having surveyed the land and providing a detailed written description the land was apportioned into 7 allotments. On the return of the spies lots were cast to see what each tribe was to receive. Verses 11-28 tell us of Benjamin's inheritance: the lands and their cities. Notice that Jerusalem is included in Benjamin's allotted territory. Jerusalem is also listed as belonging to Judah. How can it belong to two tribes? It was a border city and so belonged to both tribes. Benjamin's allocation logically follows the two sons of Joseph since Benjamin was Joseph's brother. Isaiah 24 describes the ravages to come on the earth, and at the time of the great earthquake which will happen when Jesus returns to the earth. Verse 1 speaks of the depopulation that this event will bring. Verses 2-3 tells that all classes of people are equally affected. Verses 4-6 outlines some of sins of the world which have brought these judgments. Verses 7-13 describe the bitterness felt by the survivors of this calamity. Verses 14-20 say that many of the remaining peoples will speak of the righteousness of the Almighty's judgment. Verses 21-23 speak of the new regime reigning in Jerusalem over the entire earth who will displace all the other rulers. Hebrews 5verses 12-6 and 20 continues the theme begun in chapter 5 – a warning against apostacy. The first 8 verses deal with a pressing danger to those, who were once enlightened by the Spirit Word, and had shared in the Holy Spirit gifts of the first century, of “falling away” (Greek word for apostacy and having a number value of 666). This proves that the possession of a spiritual gift was not a guarantee of a place in the kingdom. The writer expresses his hope that the majority of the letter's readers will not succumb to this challenge. From verse 13 to the end of chapter the writer outlines the certainty of God's promises. All His promises are unfailing and are not capable of any shortfall in what He has promised. Yahweh's promise to Abraham is vouchsafed by an oath based on God's own existence. And so with Chrst having been raised and exalted to His Father's presence our hope is securely anchored in Christ. This hope takes us beyond mortality and being with Christ will be realised at Jesus' return to earth to set up the kingdom promised to Abraham (see Romans 4 verse 13; Genesis 13 verses 14-15). From chapters 7-10 the writer speaks of the “better priesthood”, which has been brought into existence by our Lord Jesus Christ. Chapter 7 introduces us to “one made like unto the Son of God”, by the terms the Scripture uses and the manner in which they are introduced to the reader of the sacred inspired text. Twice only do we find Melchizedek, the king-priest of Jerusalem mentioned in the Old Testament – Genesis 14 and Psalm 110. These verses were written about a thousand years apart. And together with an enacted parable from 2 Samuel chapters 6-8 allow us to see how this man prefigures the Lord Jesus Christ and his priesthood. Like Abraham's promises Christ's priesthood (typically seen in Melchizedek) is founded upon an oath. Since Melchizedek's priesthood preceded and also prophetically succeeds the Aaronic priesthood the Scripture foreshadows a change of law administered by an eternal priesthood of King-priests. Christ's sacrifice suffices in the forgiveness of sins once for all time. And our Lord Jesus will return to the earth free from a body which is weak and sin prone to rule in glorious immortality.

The Life Of Christ - #  86 The Healing of the Epileptic Child by John Martin

Joshua 17 covers the allotment of land to the tribe of Manasseh. Joseph was Israel's favourite son and the one that always delighted his father, like our Lord Jesus Christ did those things that pleased His Father. To Joseph, although he was not the firstborn son, was given the blessing and double portion as if he were in fact the firstborn. So too of our Lord Jesus – Psalm 89:27-29. And so Israel blessed the sons of Joseph – Ephraim and Manasseh – and gave them a double allotted portion in the Promised Land. So two Christ's children – Jew and Gentile – will inherit the earth Romans 4:13; Hebrews 2verses 10-13. So after Joshua chapter 16 spoke of Ephraim's inheritance it is appropriate that chapter 17 tells of Manasseh's tribal allocation. Chapter 17 says that the numerous descendants of Manasseh receive land on either side of the river Jordan. The inheritances are described here. The chapter also tells us about the way in which the daughters of Zelophehad are likewise qualified to inherit along with male heirs. Like the two previous chapters of Joshua this one too has a disturbing ending with verses 12-18 speaking of Manasseh's failure to carry out the command of the LORD in destroying the Canaanites. Isaiah 23 is a prophecy about Tyre and Sidon. Tyre was the chief city of the Phoenician kingdom and closely allied with her sister city Sidon. These were settled by the Hittites who came from a powerful civilisation of the Hath-hi in Turkey. In the zenith of their power this kingdom rivalled the Egyptians and the Assyrians. The Phoenician's were the greatest maritime nation of that time sending their navies as far as the Tarshish of the west – Great Britain. Verse 3 says that Tyre was the merchant navy of the world. Verse 6 explains how the mantle of maritime supremacy was relocated from Tyre to Great Britain who in the history of the last few hundred years has ruled the seas. Verses 11-14 speaks of the loss of naval greatness would be taken from her by the LORD in modern times. Tarshish. Verses 15-18 says that there would be a revitalisation of Tarshish's powers after a 70 year epoch – the time of one monarch. We today are witnessing Great Britain reestablishing her old trading patterns with those nations of her commonwealth. This is at the close of the reign of Elizabeth 2 after a rule of seventy years. Hebrews 3 and 4 bring us to the next section of the book. Christ is greater than Moses; and greater than Joshua. Neither of these great, divinely appointed men could bring faithful believers into the Promised Land; neither of them could bring them into the rest promised in Messiah's kingdom. Verses 1-5 of chapter 3 say that, despite Moses' greatness (he was the greatest man living in his era – Numbers 12 verses 1-7) he was, still after all, only “a servant in God's house”. What a contrast to our Lord Jesus Christ, who is as God's Son the builder of the house (indeed, the builder of ALL things) and the heir, therefore, of the universe. And we, as part of that house, have an eternal inheritance providing we are, like Moses, faithful servants on that house. Chapter 3 verses 7-4 verses 13 explain that, “there is a rest that remains for the people of God”. Chapter 3 verses 7-11 are a word for word quotation from Psalm 95 verses 8-11. The incident being referred to is found in Exodus 17 verses 1-7 at a place called both Massah and Meribah. It was the place where Israel strove contentiously with God. The place where Moses strikes the rock upon God's command and out gushed water, as a river that follows Israel during their wandering in the wilderness for the greater part of 40 years. Then the water stops and Israel again grumble and ask if God is among them. Moses, out of frustration, for the second time strikes the rock ie almost 40 years after the first time. Moses claims glory for bringing water from the rock (1 Corinthians 10 tells us that rock was Christ). The place is renamed “temptation”,or in the Hebrew “Meribah” hence the references in Exodus 17; Psalm 95; Psalm 78 verses :20-22, 41; Hebrews10 verses 26-29. The two incidents 40 years apart serve as a summary of the nation's attitude during their wanderings. The great lesson for Israel, and for us, is that, although God showed patience, it is limited to while “Today” still exists. Indeed even after Joshua (Greek “Jesus”) brings the nation into the Promised Land, ie the very Land that Moses is forbidden entry, because he struck the rock on the 2nd occasion; neither Moses, or Joshua could give them the kingdom rest. That task remains for a greater “Joshua”, ie Jesus (the Greek form of the Hebrew Joshua) who will give faithful believers a thousand years (Millennial) rest (Greek “the keeping of a sabbath rest” ie on the Biblical principle of a day for a thousand years see 2 Peter 3 verses 8-9). The writer says we need to keep working now that God may grant you that rest. How powerful and inspiring are the words from verse 12, “God's Word is living and energetic; and is discerning of our thoughts and intentions”. It can, if we let it, separate us from what is sensual and fleshly; and it can direct us into the paths of God. Chapter 4 verses 16 to chapter 5 verses 10 introduces us to our great High Priest – the Lord Jesus Christ. In chapter 4 verses 16-18 Jesus, because of his righteous life, has passed through the heavens. And like us, Jesus has been tested in all respects just as we have been (1 John 2 verses 15-17). Yet unlike us he has never sinned. But in his suffering through trials he understands and sympathises with our temptations; and is able to aid us (as our intercessor) in the needy times of our lives. Chapter 5 verses 1-10 both compares our Lord Jesus Christ with Aaron; and also shows Christ to be superior to Aaron in every respect of his priesthood. Chapter 5 verses 11 to chapter 6:12 warns against apostasy. Chapter 5 verses 11-14 makes an appeal for the Hebrew readers to open their dull ears, so that they might respond to God's Word. These readers who have been in the Truth for many years were as though they needed the milk of God's Word once more; and had failed to progress to meat (which should happen naturally as we grow). The listeners needed to be strengthened to practise righteousness (Greek word for “exercised” AV is “to train in the gymnasium”. Audio Player      

Joshua 16 outlines the inheritance of the tribe of Ephraim. This was Joshua's own tribe and it is significant that the faithful leader, who was the only other spy to completely trust in the Living God. Joshua together with Caleb courageously stood against the rebellious congregation of Israel. Sadly this tribe fell away from the values of Joshua in the long era when judges ruled the nation of Israel and were known for their great pride. At the division of the kingdom in the time of Rehoboam and his servant Jeroboam. Ten tribes went with Jeroboam and formed the northern kingdom of Ephraim ie Israel. Verses 1-9 describe the boundaries and territory allocated to Ephraim. The last verse of the chapter closes on a disturbing note, similarly to that in chapter 15. It tells of Ephraim failure to destroy the Canaanites. Isaiah 22:1-11 tell of the failures of the leaders of Judah and their terrible behaviours for which the nation's Almighty Sovereign would bring His judgments on them. Despite the sufferings of His people they did not turn to their God. The Assyrian siege brought great suffering for Judah. Verse 11 explains that the LORD had formed Jerusalem He had sculpted the geography for the protection and deliverance of Judah. The water course that would be brought from outside the city to provide an abundance of fresh water during the siege of Jerusalem. Verses 12-14 speaks of the different attitudes to the seemingly imminent destruction of the residents of Jerusalem. Some sought help from neighbouring kingdoms; others sought to abandon all hope and give themselves up to pleasure; a few, such as the faithful remnant, trusted that their Sovereign would save them. Verse 13 is quoted by the Apostle Paul to describe what may well be the attitude of non believers at the time of the resurrection. If there is no resurrection believers might as well embrace death – 1 Corinthians 15:29-32. Verses 15-19 the Omnipotent Creator tells of His humbling of the haughty chief scribe, Shebna. This rich and faithless officer had sought praise and prominence had hewn out for himself an impressive tomb. Archeologists have recently discovered the seal of Shebna establishing the truth and historicity of the Bible. As part of the divine discrediting of Shebna was the transfer of the role of governor to God's faithful servant Eliakim – meaning established by Yahweh. Eliakim is a type of our Lord Jesus Christ who will receive the keys of government in the receiving of the key of office – the key to the city. Compare verses 21-25 with Isaiah 9:6-9 and the keys of the saving gospel promised to Peter by our Lord in Matthew 16:17-19. Again we are reminded of the attention of our Lord to the small vessels (which we may well be) as well as the great. The letter to the Hebrews is the only book in the Bible, whose human pen person is unknown. Of course all 66 books are given from God as He breathed His thoughts into Holy Writ (Scripture). Hebrews makes this clear from the outset. There are good reasons for the human scribe's identity remaining hidden. The time of writing is 65-66 AD. Some believe that the author is Priscilla (the wife of Aquila); others argue that its style and content are of the great Apostle Paul. But if the author was known to be Paul, or a close associate of his, some of the message may have lost its appeal to the readers. The message is for believers to flee Jerusalem before its destruction. The listeners needed convincing that the way of Christ is “better” than the way of those bound by the Law. Another dominant theme is, as John Carter points out in his book “The Letter to the Hebrews” – what he calls watchwords of resolution, “Let us …”. Slowly read aloud verses 1-4; pause and ponder. The book is about God; His revelation to believers of every age through diverse means, but culminating in His being revealed in His incomparable Son. Those verses tell us that Jesus, God's Son, is “the express image” of his Father – the Greek word is “character” and it means the impress of a king's seal in wax – the exact likeness; so that Jesus could say to Philip in John 14:9 that, “whoever has seen me has seen the Father”. God's character was seen in a man, His Son (see John 1:14-18). Verses 5-14 provide 7 quotes from the Old Testament which demonstrate the Lord Jesus Christ's superiority to the angels. Chapter 2 continues the theme of “how much better Christ is than the angels. The first four verses teach us to diligently heed the warnings lest we ‘drift away' from the salvation that is in Christ Jesus. The Greek words in the metaphor speak of a boat breaking loose from its moorings and slipping away. Verses 5-18 reveal Jesus' great work and of the necessity that in every respect Jesus be of the human race and that our Lord fully share in all the temptations common to our human condition (nature). The ESV entitles this section, “The Founder of Salvation”. The writer commences it with a quote from Psalm 8 written by David when God has given him victory over his foe – the Philistine giant Goliath. That our God concerns Himself with us insignificant creatures is amazing. God's instrument in securing victory over sin and death is through a frail, but Divinely strengthened son of Adam – Jesus. The writer reveals that the chosen method of the Father is to open a gracious door offering grace and mercy through the forgiveness of sins and mercy, leading to the opportunity to receive eternal life(“aionian Zoe” age-abiding) through the outworking of God's power to overcome sin in human flesh. Note that GRACE (unmerited favour), by the forbearance of God, is a primary dynamic factor in God's salvation and a great motivation to His children. These details are seen particularly, in the letters of Romans, Galatians and Hebrews. Verses 10-13, of Hebrews 2, explains the fitness of God's chosen solution and the bond that this creates between our Saviour and those being saved. Our Lord Jesus Christ was one with us ie the descendants of Adam in so far as his natural condition. So, according to Scripture, he is our brother. Nonetheless, he is to be revered as a father since through his suffering of hardship and travail we become his begotten children. Paul to prove this quotes Psalm 22 and Isaiah 8. In verses 14-15 the writer proves this by using language which demonstrates by means of voluminous repetition ideas showing how vital it was that Jesus' nature was in all respects as ours. By this means the devil (Greek “diaballos”) was destroyed in his sinless life, and through death eradicated for ever for Jesus. And forgiveness is established as the basis for God to ultimately do the same in each repentant believer, in prospect now and in actuality, when the Lord Jesus Christ comes in his kingdom. Verse 16 in the ESV translation points out that he did not aid angels – for they are already immortal – but the death stricken and needy “seed of Abraham” are the beneficiaries of salvation's work. And so, verses 17-18 tell us that this qualifies Jesus as a high priest competent to understand and support each of us in our struggles against sin.

In the final segment 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. The 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, we must love it, and God and His Son and His Word, His truth, His ecclesia, His family: we must be emotionally involved and committed. 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 2:1-12. 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.

Joshua 14:1-5 speak of the allocation of the tribal inheritances west of the river Jordan. Verses 6-15 deal with the request and allotting to Caleb, the great man of faith who wholly believed and wholeheartedly trusted Yahweh his God together with Joshua. Caleb was not a natural born Israelite. He was a Kennite and from a tribal group who faithfully chose to journey to the Promised Land with the people of the LORD that they too might share Yahweh's blessings for His people. Caleb at 85 years old is as vigorous and eager as he was at 40 years of age. Then, as at this time, Caleb trusted in the help of the Almighty to go and take Hebron, meaning fellowship. This city was the place where the patriarchal family settled in the land and sojourned in faith with their God. That city had belonged to the greatest giant of the Anakim – Arba. Caleb stands in contrast to his fearful brethren who cowered at the thought of fighting against the giants of Canaan. Isaiah chapters 19-20 contain prophecies concerning Egypt. Isaiah 19:1-4 tell of the time that nears when the Almighty's hand of judgment will be felt by the Egyptians. The LORD says that He will put them under a fierce overlord. I believe that this will be the time spoken of in Daniel 11:40-43. This said Daniel would be at the time of the end when the Northern confederacy of nations will invade the Middle East. Verses 5-10 describe the predicament of the Egyptian industries particularly for the fishermen of the Nile whose harvest has been destroyed by the construction of the Aswan dam in lower Egypt. Verses 11-15 lament the bringing low of the once great superpower of the Middle East. Verses 16-25 outline a time of blessing for Egypt together with two of the former superpowers of that region – Assyria and Egypt. And although these 3 nations will be blessed in Messiah's kingdom Israel's status as the covenant people of the Lord God Almighty make her the head of the nations as the prophet Zechariah tells us in chapter 8:20-23. Isaiah 19:23 tells us that there will be in Israel a place of worship to the Living God whose Son rules from Jerusalem. The epistle of Titus was written between Paul's first imprisonment spoken of in 1 Timothy and his final imprisonment and execution anticipated in 2 Timothy 4. The three chapters contain wonderful information about individual lives in the service of Christ.The letter appears to be written after Paul's release from the first Roman imprisonment, when he was under house arrest for two years as Acts 28 records. After this conditions for believers in Christ became 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 ring leader of the ‘christians' and therefore the prime instigator of the fire. Paul had following his house arrest in Rome and prior to the great fire been released and undertaken a fifth missionary journey. Paul journeyed with Titus to Crete to establish the ecclesias. This journey left the task of organising those ecclesias so the Apostle Paul left Titus at Crete for this. The book of Titus starts with the qualifications that should apply to 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. Verses 10-11 of chapter 1 tells of the insubordination of many of the Cretians. The gluttony, idleness and falseness of these islanders was legendary in the Roman world. Paul ironically speaks of the Cretian paradox that their poet, Epimenides, spoke claiming all Cretians liars, and yet in this he himself a Cretian was telling the truth. Paul tells Titus to firmly rebuke the Cretians as their behaviour was unacceptable in any follower of Christ. The first chapter concludes by telling us that the pure in mind must not have their words and actions tainted by double standards – likewise those who are double minded corrupt others said the Apostle. Chapter 2 commences with instructions to young men, such as Titus (v1); older men (v2); older sisters (Vv3-5) – including that they were teaching the younger women in both word and, even more importantly, by example (cp 1 Corinthians 11 verses 1). 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 in verses 10-11 that by honesty and diligence they prove that they are believers and, by such behaviour, they enhanced the reputation of true disciples. There is an emphasis in the letter on 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 Titus 2 verses 11-14 urges us. Read aloud, pause and Titus was a convert of Paul. Paul calls him “my true child in our common fath”, 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 ring leader 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 11:1). 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 2 verses 11-14 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 3 verse 8, “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.

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Joshua 12 records Israel's conquests to this point of their history. Most of the major victories had occurred so that the tribes were left to mop up the remaining Canaanites from the land to secure their allotted inheritance. Verses 1-6 records the victories under Moses on the eastern side of the river Jordan. Verses 7-21 speak of the thirty one kings defeated by Joshua west of the Jordan. The land was now ready for each tribe to take their own allotted portion. Isaiah 16 is a prophecy about a time that is soon to come in the Middle East when the northern confederacy, headed by Rosh, invades this region in order to pour out its fury against Israel. That will be the time of Armageddon spoken of in Ezekiel 38, Joel 3, Zechariah 14 and Revelation 16. The Lord Jesus Christ will liberate Moab and Ammon as a preparation for their reception of the fleeing Jews with open arms. Those outcasts will be protected by these Arab peoples at the time of Israel's great extremity – called by Jeremiah “the time of Jacob's trouble”. The Jewish people describe this perilous time as – ‘the dire straits'. This time will be just prior to the Lord Jesus Christ's taking of his kingdom. It will be the era of the Arabs acceptance of Jesus and their becoming believers in the Messiah, the Saviour of the world. Verse 4 says that at this time the oppressor will be vanquished. Verse 5 speaks of the establishing of Christ's throne in “stedfast love” (chesed), faithfulness and justice. Verses 6-11 tell of the arrogance of Moab and the terrible judgments that awaited that nation because of this. The chief cities and magnificent places of Moab would be destroyed by the coming oppressor. However after Moab's humiliation and submission to Messiah, Moab will eventually be accepted. Within three years of Isaiah speaking this prophecy Moab was brought low. The fulfilment of this prophecy establishes Isaiah's credentials as a prophet of Yahweh. 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 cannot eat of the crop without first 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 34:14; where the Hebrew word “pursue” is of identical meaning) righteousness, faith, love and peace together with all similar purehearted believers. Timothy must the utmost patience to all in the hope that God might cause even those who are contentious to acknowledge (Greek ‘epignosis' – knowledge which impels correct action) the Truth.

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.

The Life Of Christ - #  85 The Transfiguration #2. by John Martin

1 Timothy 6 says that servants must honourably bare 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 – ie 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 20 verses 12-16). Let us learn godliness with contentment; richness in faith and loving works to others – pause and ponder.

Joshua tells of the great Gibeonite deception. The Gibeonites become exceptionally fearful after the fall of the two walled fortresses of Jericho and Ai. They take counsel among their elders to plan a survival strategy. These Amorites also were a significant clan. The strategy revolves around the sending of ambassadors, who will appear to have travelled from a far country. The clothes and provisions of these emissaries together with their crafty talk will hopefully beguile the Israelites and allow them to offer terms of peace. When the Gibeonites come and discuss the purpose of their visit ie to acknowledge the greatness of Yahweh, Israel's God, the elders of Israel were deceived. A treaty between the two nations is signed without taking counsel from God. Three days later Israel discovers the deception and find themselves in a quandary. The Gibeonites are near neighbours of Israel. They have sworn an oath to wipe out all of the Canaanites and at the same time they have made a covenant of peace with the Amorites of Gibeon. Some of the congregation are angry with the elders of Israel and want to destroy the deceiving Amorites. God tells Joshua that they must not do this. Joshua counsels Israel to make the Gibeonites servants to the nation – cutters of wood and drawers of water. Despite the deception of these people subsequent history shows them to be among the most faithful people of the land in their association with Israel's God. The become the Nethinim who are later given by the LORD to aid the Levites. And while in Babylonian captivity the faith of many of these men and women is preserved. They made up a great proportion of the exiles who returned to Israel after the 70 years' captivity. From chapters 13-39 of Isaiah's prophecy there is an historical focus on Judah's neighbouring nations. Chapters 13-14 tell of judgments on Babylon. Verses 1-16 describe in graphic detail the punishments that were to fall upon this guilty nation. These judgments are described as the day of Yahweh, as the vengeance of His temple (in Jeremiah). The LORD was mustering among the nations a force that would carry out His vengeance upon Babylon. The horrific acts of this avenging army are told in these verses. It would humble that proud empire. They would be left no place for escape and would feel like a fleeing gazelle pursued by her hunters. Verses 17-18 tell us that the coalition headed by the Medes was the principal instrument that the Almighty was to use. How remarkably accurate is our Sovereign's prophetic Word. Verses 19-22 tell us the vast devastation that would occur when Babylon is overthrown. It was to be a howling wilderness inhabited by the wild beasts. To the Arabians it was to become a cursed and desolate place. 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 ie 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”) 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 13 verses 7, 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.

Joshua 8 tells of the strategy in the taking of Ai and the events that led up to this conquest. After the shameful defeat of chapter 7 Joshua is encouraged to return and take the city by surprise by using an ambush and pincer movement to encircle and trap the Amorite army. Thirty thousand men remained silent and hidden in thickets near Ai while Joshua and the bulk of the army made a front line attack against the city. The army pretended to be in panic and lured the Amorites from the city which was then smitten while the Amorites were pursuing Israel. The occupiers of the city than came out against the Amorite army and Joshua stretched out his spear, when the LORD said that the moment was right, and the fleeing Israelites turned to encircle the enemy and destroy them. The entire populace of Ai was destroyed and their livestock taken by Israel as spoil. The city was burned by fire and then buried under a heap of stones. Verses 30-35 describes Joshua taking Israel to Shechem, building the altar of Yahweh on Mount Ebal, offering sacrifices, writing on plastered stones the blessings and curses from the book of Deuteronomy and pronouncing these blessings and curses on each of the six tribes on Ebal – for curses – and blessings on the six tribes on Mount Gerazim. Both natural Israelites and the strangers in their midst assented to the words of the covenant.

Joshua 7 tells of Israel's first military defeat and the reason it happened. All was not well in the camp of Israel, though only a few knew of this. The next city that is to be conquered was Ai, another powerful walled fortress. So remarkably easy was the fall of Jericho that a sense of self confidence was developing within Israel. The elders of the nation saw no necessity for all the army to attack Ai. Let a few thousand men go up they said. And they were soundly beaten on their first attempt. Joshua takes the matter to the Almighty in prayer and is told of the cause of the problem. Israel's covetousness. For although only one man, Achan had taken spoil from the devoted goods, the whole nation had wanted to. Early the next morning Joshua rose and lots were cast to see who was responsible for the military defeat. Achan was chosen by the casting of lots and asked by Joshua to confess his sin. As Achan describes what he had done we see the classic pattern of sin – seeing, desiring and taking – this was the problem in Genesis chapters 3 and 13. 1 John 2:15-17 tells us this. Slowly read these verses aloud. Pause and ponder what we are taught about our desires and their outcomes due to our covetous ways, in Joshua 7 verse 19 Achan is called upon to acknowledge his sin before God. We too must do the same if we are to find forgiveness 1 John 1 verses 7-10. James 1verses 14-15 says that this is the problem each of us has After Achan tells of his sin messengers are sent to his tent to find the stolen property. Notice that these goods were hidden in the earth. This too will become the fate of all who act as though the LORD can be deceived. The entire assembly is called to stone him to death and heap over his carcass and those carcasses of his guilty family together with their livestock a heap of memorial stones. However in the future the valley of Achor, where these events occurred will become for the nation a door of hope as Hosea 2 verse 15 says (Peta Tikvah – the poem concerning Israel's Hope was written based on this and other verses in 1883. Later the song Ha Tikva was composed in 1897 and became Israel's national anthem on May 14th, 1948). Isaiah 11 is a masterpiece of Scripture which describes some of the characteristics that the Almighty both gave to and cultivated within His Son as part of the enabling of the sinlessness of our Lord Jesus Christ. Verse 1 tells that our Lord's origins were divine – Micah 5 verse 2 “goings forth .. are from everlasting”. The Hebrew meaning of “going forth” speaks of Christ's ancestry is eternal. The same idea is conveyed in our Lord's own words – Revelation 22:16. Verses 2-4 speak of the capacities that Jesus' divine begettal played in equipping Messiah for his work in conquering sin. God's spirit was upon His Son from the time of Jesus' conception until his death. At the age of 30 that Spirit was given to him without a limit. It gave Jesus the capacity to develop a quick and perceptive mind. It also gave Jesus the capability to receive and understand his Father's Word beyond the capacity of any other member of the human race. Paul says that the Lord Jesus was, as the man of God, enabled to breathe in divine thoughts 2 Timothy 3 verses 15-17 and Isaiah 50 verses 4-10. He's was the Word of God developed in a mortal body – John 1 verses 14-18. Whilst we all too often make judgements on what we see and hear our Lord never did – John 2 verses 25. The Lord's judgment was unerring at all times. It was true and righteous. Verse 4 tells us that our Lord Jesus would uphold the cause of the poor and needy. These words accord with David's prophecy about Jesus in 2 Samuel 23 verses 1-7. And so Isaiah 11 verses 7-9 outline the peace, security and harmony in Messiah's kingdom. Ultimately the rule of Christ will see the filling of the earth with Yahweh's glory – both in understanding and by way of living. Verses 10-12 describe Messiah's role in the final regathering of Israel after his return. 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.

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 13:16-18). 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.

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 ie patterned the world's eras around His Son, the Christ (Hebrews 11:1). 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 21 verses 24-36). 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 4 verse 1). 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 3 verses 10-18).

Joshua 2 describes Israel's spying out Jericho by the two spies that were sent by Joshua. Jericho was a fortified and powerful city and is the nation's first challenge in the conquest of the Promised Land. The spies select Rahab's house as their place to lodge and from there to conduct their reconnaissance. Rahab hid the two men among the flax on her roof when the king of Jericho sought their arrest. The city of Jericho was in a state of high alert with Israel's recent great conquests and the fact the city is likely to be Israel's next point of attack. Rahab feigns ignorance of the spies' whereabouts and tells the pursuers to swiftly pursue them that as have just left the city. In verses 8-11 Rahab tells of Yahweh's might and that without doubt He is the only true God. This she did prior to her hiding of the spies. Hebrews 11 verse 31 comments on her faith as the source for her motivation. James 2verse 25 says that her faith moved Rahab to act and by this she was justified. After the king of Jericho's men depart Rahab reminds the spies of the oath that they swore to her. A token of the covenant is the binding of a scarlet rope, by which the spies were let down the city's wall, being left suspended in Rahab's window. Follow the theme of the scarlet thread through the Bible and you will be amazed (start with Genesis 38:28). Rahab gives the spies advice on how to evade Jericho's hostile pursuers. For their part the spies declare that the oath will be honoured. The spies are greatly encouraged by the sign of victory that their mighty God has given them and they confidently say to Joshua that the LORD of hosts has given them the land Isaiah 8 tells of the prophet's wife bearing him a second son – Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz – whose name means: “in speeding to the spoil the enemy hastens against the prey”. This name spoke of the imminent Assyrian invasion of Immanuel's land. Isaiah says that when this happens and the mighty waters of the river will overflow and fill the breadth of the land almost swallowing the nation as those waters will be up to Judah's necks. In its path the Assyrian river would sweep away the kingdoms of Syria and Israel. Why would the Almighty bring such devastating destruction? It was because of Judah's refusal to heed the gentle and beseeching waters of Shiloah – meaning peaceful. Shiloah (and its variants) speak of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9verse 6; Genesis 49 verse 10). The New Testament instructs us to hear the voice of Jesus as the Father commands: “This is My Son, hear him”. Failure to hear will incur certain judgment as Isaiah 8:9-10 and Hebrews 2 verses 1-4 outline. Verses 11-15 encourage the remnant not to be overwhelmed by fear, but rather to trust in the living God who will deliver the faithful who revere Him. Verse 13 is alluded to by Peter who applies the words to the life and speech of the faithful pilgrims in 1 Peter 4verses 15-19. Verses 16-22 conclude Isaiah 8 by explaining the role of the disciple: to give heed to our Sovereign's Word and setting it as a seal upon our heart. Christ is our great example in this matter as John 6 verse 27; Revelation 14verses 1-5 teach us. Judah was a confused nation who were to their shame hearkening to the mystifying wizards who had no understanding in the matters that related to life and death. In listening to those whose teachings fog the minds of the children of God will lead to certain and deserved judgement. 1 Thessalonians 3 verses 1-5 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 ie 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 15 verses 52-53). 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 12 verses 1-2). These believers will be caught into the air ie 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 – ie the subjects of that coming kingdom. What a comfort to those who are now suffering persecution.

The Life Of Christ - #  84 The Transfiguration #1. by John Martin

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 10:10, 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').

Deuteronomy 33 records Moses' message and blessings for each of the 12 tribes and contains wise words of instruction and warning. These words speaks of events to be seen in the latter days that are specific for each tribe. Verses 2-5 are prophetic and is in the Hebrew text in the future tense. Compare Habakuk chapter 3. Seir is the territory of Edom and relates to the time described in Isaiah 63:1-6. Mount Paran is in the south, in the Negev, and we are being presented with the March of the rainbowed angel of Revelation 10. Verse 3 prophetically relates to the same events described in Psalm 68. Of Reuben Moses tells of an increasing in numbers for that tribe. Verse 7 speaks of Judah. We know that this tribe was to be the progenitor of our Lord Jesus Christ – as Micah 5:2 declares. An interesting exercise is to compare Jacob's last day prophecies in Genesis 49 with those of Moses in this chapter. Contemplate the description of Judah's king in verses 8-12 of Genesis 49. Verses 8-11 of Deuteronomy 33:8-11 tell of blessings upon Levi for that tribe's faithfulness to their God at the time of the incident of the golden calf. This, too, was a mirror of their zeal for the LORD at the time of Israel's corrupting of themselves at Baal Peor – Phinehas led the tribe by his example then. The Urim and Thummim relate to the righteous divine judgments in which Yahweh aided and directed the outcome. Phinehas put his love of the LORD above natural family ties and as a result he was promised a priesthood in the kingdom age – Malachi 2 verses 4-7. For his and his tribe's faithfulness the Levites were entrusted with the responsibility to teach Israel the testimonies of their Sovereign. Benjamin's blessing relates to the proximity of his tribe's habitat being on the border of Judah and sharing of the metropolis of the kingdom age – Jerusalem. Verses 14-18 contain the longest of the blessings, which were upon Joseph, the head of the one whose life marked him as separate from his brothers. Joseph may well be the greatest type of Lord Jesus Christ in the Old Testament. Joseph is blessed with the double inheritance as his father elevated him to the position of the firstborn son. Likewise though Adam was the firstborn son of God, Luke 3:38, our Lord was given the place of the firstborn as Is prophesied in Psalm 89 verses 26-29. Verse 16 describes the blessing of knowing Yahweh our God in the revelation that was made to Moses by the angel who abode in the bush – Exodus 3:13-18 compare with Acts 7:30-34. The reference to the ten thousands from this tribe is an allusion to Psalm 68:13-21. Verses 18-21 speak of Zebulon, meaning dwelling, being blessed with an inheritance by the Mediterranean Sea and the treasures of the sand may relate to the extensive gas fields found adjacent to this region. The worshippers arriving at this haven by ship will come from there to worship the King in Jerusalem – the mountain of the LORD as Psalm 48 reveals. Verses 20-21 tell of Gad's troop being the protectors of the Promised Land. Verse 22 shows Dan to be the vindicator – the exactor of vengeance upon Yahweh's foes. Verse 23 outlines how Naphtali will carry the burdens of the blessings that will be brought to the nation from the abundance of the Gentiles – Isaiah 60 verses 9-11 reveals this. The lake mentioned is the Dead Sea in southern Israel. and this tribe may accompany the worshippers on their way to the house of prayer for all nations. Verses 24-25 speak of Asher, whose name means “blessed”, or “happy” being blessed with abundance. The mineral wealth in this tribal allotment is enormous. The mineral deposits in the Dead Sea region are among the largest know deposits on earth. Verses 26-29 enumerate the boundless blessings to the nation. The greatest of these blessings is to have the the Eternal God as our Father and be supported day by day in His caring, but mighty, arms. With Him we experience incomparable blessings throughout our live. And we live in this blessed assurance. Chapter 34 of Deuteronomy is not written by Moses as it speaks of his death and the physical condition of his body at the time he is laid to sleep. From the top of Mount Pisgah Moses views the Promised Land. He saw it through eyes that were enhanced and allowing him to see the entire land – this was not physically possible from that location. He rests awaiting the time that the angel will raise him from his sleep so that he also inherit the home of his constant yearnings. He dies as a vigorous man of 120 years in age. His natural vitality was strong and his eyesight undimmed. Israel mourned his decease for a month. And Joshua succeeded Moses as leader of the LORD's people – by the Almighty's divine appointment and with the blessing of Moses. No like prophet ever arose Isaiah 6 tells of Isaiah's calling to be a prophet of Yahweh and his being appointed to that role. He is called as a youth and he protests his unsuitability of carrying out a challenging mission to a rebellious and unheeding nation. In fact the message that he is taking to the nation of Judah would produce an increase in their hostility. As well as his claim to be but a youth we have evidences of that work lasting for 89 years. The prophet begins his service in the year of the great earthquake when king Uzziah died – BC 796. That king had usurped the office of the High Priest and the LORD struck him with leprosy as he was attempting to offer the incense. Uzziah is driven from the Temple as one of the region's greatest earthquakes of all time is unleashed. In contrast with that event the prophet beholds Yahweh of armies enthroned in His Temple. This glorious vision of the king-priest Messiah is symbolic of our Lord Jesus Christ's kingdom reign at his second advent. Matthew tells us this in chapter 13 verses 10-17. The purpose of parables, we are told, was to bewilder the shallow and the sceptical; but to enlighten the hearers who are seeking enlightenment. Verses 9-10 of Isaiah's sixth chapter are cited. At the shaking of the Temple from the great earthquake Isaiah himself physically trembled at this display of raw power from the Almighty. The prophet declares his own unworthiness to even behold this vision, let alone be asked to be his representative. The seraphim appear to be a combination of the cherubic figures of Ezekiel and the flashing of burning fire from the symbolic creatures which Isaiah saw. The Hebrew word derives from a word meaning burning ones. A coal of fire from the smoking incense altar is placed on the prophet's tongue and he is told that there is no need for fears as his iniquity is taken away by God whose Word has purged his sins. The necessary preparation for Isaiah to proclaim the LORD's message. Isaiah is thus commissioned as a prophet of Yahweh and on behalf of his Sovereign he would take the message placed into his mouth by divine inspiration to the nation of Israel. Sadly that generation of Israelites was largely uneffected. Likewise Messiah's message failed to effect the majority of people in his age. So our Lord Jesus spoke in parables. The Apostle John speaks of this in John 12verses 32-33 when our Lord Jesus prophesied his own lifting up in crucifixion. Paul tells us that this was a great stumbling stone for the Jews as we read in  1 Corinthians 1:23. In Colossians 3 verses 1-4 tells us that since we have through the act of baptism been raised in him to a new life our thoughts and actions should be in harmony with this. And so from verses 5-9 all those past behaviours are to find no place among believers. Our new self is being renewed every day through our growth in understanding what it means to be “in Christ”. From verses 12-17 the focus of the believer's mind and actions is to centre on living with (and as) Christ. From verses 18 to the chapter's end he addresses the different groups within Christian households and advises on proper behaviour. Chapter 4 continues with instructions for masters and servants – such an important topic as five sixths of the Roman world were slaves. Verses 2-4 is a request to those at Colossae to pray for Paul's preaching. Verse 5 tells that their speech and behaviour must be sincere at all times – “seasoned with salt”. Verses 7-17 conclude with final greetings. Verse 18 tells us that the letter was written by Paul in his own handwriting.

Colossians 2 together with Romans 6 provides the most complete description of what baptism is and what it achieves. Verses 1-5 tell us that in Christ we find a complete embodiment of the wisdom of God in a single individual. So we, the body of believers need to model and pattern ourselves on the Lord Jesus Christ. Verses 9-10 tell us that all can know about the Almighty is to be found in Christ. Verses 11-15 describe what baptism is – it is like circumcision in that it tells us that “in the flesh” – that is within our nature (dwells nothing innately good). There is nothing in human nature that can do anything good for God. And so human nature is rightly related to death. In dying Christ destroyed a body identical to ours – in that every sin which has been done could have been done in Jesus' body. The Jews and Romans were driven by the lusts of their natures to try to destroy our Lord Jesus Christ. But by not yielding to the passions which controlled his enemies our Lord victoriously triumphed in his sinless death. That death on the stake was a demonstration of the truth that human nature is rightfully related to death. Only when the lifeless body of our Lord hung on the stake was sin conquered in him and in his resurrection the process of salvation completed for him – and by establishing a basis for our forgiveness and thereby the way for our salvation. Therefore in crucifixion Jesus destroyed sin (called in Hebrews 2 “the devil”). So from verses 16-21 Paul tells the Colossians to focus on the pivotal and central teachings of the truth, and not to be distracted by side issues.

Paul sent the letter to the Colossians in about 62 AD. He never personally visited the region where there were two groups of believers – one in Colossae and the other in Laodicea. The one letter was read by both at this time and about 34 years time when another letter was sent in 96 AD by the Lord Jesus Christ. The area was exceptionally fertile and lay in a very rich valley. The epistle commenced with the greeting “Grace (‘charis' the Greek greeting) and peace (‘shalom' the Jewish greeting) coming to the believers from God our Father. This is followed by thanksgiving and prayer for their faithfulness in the gospel; as reported to the Apostle from Epaphras. The believers were increasing in knowledge and love. But the greatest of all thanks was to be expressed to God, our Father, who had “qualified us to share the inheritance of the saints in light … and has transferred us to the Kingdom of His beloved Son” (verses 12-13 ESV). Then from verses 14-23 Paul tells us of the preeminence of the Lord Jesus Christ the Son of the Father. Our Lord Jesus is the beginning (Gk ‘archegos') and head of God's new creation and is the firstborn (Jesus firstborn by birth, death and resurrection) of that creation; the firstborn from the dead to be raised to eternal life. Verses 24-29 tell of Paul's suffering for all Gentile believers, that he might share and participate in the sufferings of Christ (as part of his body, which we,the ecclesia are). In verse 27 we have the key verse and theme of the book, “Christ in you (ie each of us) the hope of glory”.

Acts 28 tells of the entire company of the ship arriving safely on Malta at a place today known as St Paul's Bay. Here the ship's company will remain over winter until Paul journeys to Rome. The night of their arrival is cold and wet. A fire is kindled to dry them and to provide warmth. As Paul assists with the gathering of wood for the fire a venomous viper comes out from the fire and sinks its fangs into Paul's hand. The superstitious locals think Paul must have been a murderer who having escaped the vengeance of the sea is now being punished by God. Paul shakes the snake into the fire. The locals watch Paul waiting for him to convulse, swell up and die an agonising death – none of these things happen. So they change their minds into thinking that he must be a god. Paul now is lodged for three days with the chief man of the island named Publius. Publius' father is sick with dysentery; but is miraculously healed by the Apostle. After leaving Malta three months later Paul takes a ship to the mainland where the journey to Rome continues. Along the journey Paul is given the privileges not normally given to a prisoner. The Apostle stops and meets several groups of believers on his journey to Rome. In Rome he calls together the local Jewish leaders and explains why he is in Rome. These Jewish leaders had received no information from any other Jews concerning Paul. After discussing his case it is thought that he might be set at liberty. The Apostle says that he was left with no alternative than to put his case before Caesar when the Judean Jews objected to his being released. The Roman Jews reveal that they have heard that the Christian sect is everywhere spoken against. A large gathering of Jews comes to Paul's place of residence at an appointed time. The aged Apostle tells them from morning to evening the message of the prophets. Paul concludes his address with the words of Isaiah 6 in chapter 6 which prophesied Jewish opposition to the Gospel message. The great Apostle claims that the Gentiles will favourably respond to the teaching of Christ. The book of Acts commenced in chapter 1:8 with the need for the gospel to be taken “to the uttermost parts of the earth” and concluded with that task being completed: see Jesus great commission to the Apostles in Mark 16:15-16. And also after Paul's miraculous preservation after having been bitten by a venomous viper recorded in Acts 28 verses3:5 compare with Mark 16:17-18. Two years expire and as no case is brought against Paul he is released to continue his preaching. All of these things occur before the fire in Rome and the intense persecution which came upon believers by the Emperor Nero from that time onwards. The 31st verses of Acts 28 is an epitome of the entire book: “Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.”

Acts 27 tells of Paul's journey to Rome for his case to be heard by the Emperor Nero. The ship sets sail in fine weather with only Luke accompanying the Apostle Paul on his voyage. The ship soon finds sailing difficult because of the opposing winds. When the ship reaches Crete it has now become too dangerous for sailing; and Paul advises that they should stay in Crete until the winter passes. But, the owner of the ship was determined to reach Rome as quickly as possible to receive his profit. The Roman Centurion decides to accept the ship owners' position and to continue on their journey. The ship is now beset with a hurricane-like wind called Euroclydon. The crew takes many measures to try to save the ship and its precious cargo. Nothing works and their lives are entirely at the mercy of this horrible storm. All on board the ship become depressed and for fourteen days eat nothing. Then Paul, after receiving a vision from an angel of God, takes control and encourages everyone. The Apostle gives thanks to God and they all eat. After that the ship is lightened by throwing overboard the wheat from the hold. There are 276 people on the ship. Some of the sailors pretend to let down anchors under the ship, but their intentions are to flee in the life boats. Paul says to the Roman Centurion (Julius) that unless the sailors stay on the ship all lives are in danger. Julius stops the sailors from escaping. When daylight comes the crew run the ship into a creek which sees the rough sea smash the ship to pieces. All escape safely to shore – some swimming and others being carried by the current on planks of wood from the broken ship. Acts 27:31 makes the nice point that unless we abide or remain in the Christ ship we cannot be saved: compare John 15 our fruitfulness and salvation is dependent on us abiding in the Vine of God – His precious Son our Lord Jesus Christ.

G0@ TR=Audio Book Letters to the Elect of God in a Time of Trouble #7 A letter to my Enemies_1

Deuteronomy 28 verses 1 to 15 speak of the blessings that would accompany obedience to the ways of the LORD. Verses 16 to 68 speak of the punishment (curses) for disobedience – more than a threefold increase over the blessings. This in itself is an indication of the dominant direction that the nation of Israel would follow. Joshua no doubt picks up on this in the 24th chapter which gives his speech after the reading of Deuteronomy 27 and 28. The cursings contain prophecies about the holocaust which overtook the Jewish people in the middle of the twentieth century (particularly note verses 65-67). It is also interesting that there was no requirement for assent with the pronouncement of “Amen” after any of the blessings and cursings of chapter 28. The blessings tell of bountiful harvests, fruitful families and a guarantee of peace when the nation came to Jerusalem for worship. The cursed speak of droughts, adverse weather, poor crops, of being endlessly pursued by their enemies and of an incapacity to stand and fight against their foes. Song of Solomon 8 concludes the book. In the first 7 verses the bride continues to extol her well loved and highly desired husband. She says their mutual joys are like those of innocent children. These thoughts transport us in mind back to the innocence that was once in Eden before sin entered the world. These conditions will likewise characterise the kingdom age which will be ruled over by our majestic Master and his glorious bride. Verse 6 talks of a seal. Our eternal Father gives us this seal through His beloved Son the Lord Jesus Christ – John 6:26-29; Revelation 14:1-5. In the KJV we find no mention of Yahweh's name, nor reference to any of His titles. The ESV translation of verse 6, “set me as a seal upon your heart, as a seal upon your arm, for love is strong as death, jealousy is fierce as the grave. Its flashes are flashes of fire, the very flame of Yah.” Nothing can, says Solomon, be valued above love. This is true for the love of God and that of His Son – Romans 8:31-39. In verses 8-9 the bride's companions say that they have a litttle sister. The day when she will be spoken for will be the time when the fulness of the Gentiles will occur in the kingdom when all nations will at the millennium's end be incorporated into the body of Christ. In verses 10-12 the bride continues with her counting her blessings. In verse 13 the groom tells of his longing to hear the voice of his desirable spouse. The bride finishes the song in verse 14 with an urging of her groom to rush to her side to be with her (evermore). “Even so. Come Lord Jesus.” Read and ponder the culmination of our desires in Revelation 22:20-21. In Acts 25 tells us that, when Festus was determined to send Paul to Jerusalem, the Apostle had no alternative but to make his appeal to Caesar. After a short period of time Festus conducts another hearing of Paul's matters. Festus was again seeking the favour of the Jews and at this time Paul announces that he would exercise his right as a Roman Citizen to be judged by Caesar. We then hear of Herod Agrippa and his wife Bernice visiting Caesarea and at this time Festus requests that they hear Paul's case as Festus was struggling with the wording of the charge to be made against Paul. Festus explains to Agrippa that in his opinion there was no commuting or a capital crime, but simply matters concerning Jewish law. With great pomp and ceremony Agrippa, Bernice and all the other dignitaries enter the judgment hall. Festus seeks Agrippa's view about the nature of the charge to appear on the letter to be sent to Caesar. Chapter 26 records Paul's defence and his earnest appeal to Agrippa to embrace the Christian cause. Paul tells his audience of his fervour for the Jewish way and his concerted opposition to Christianity. But when he was confronted by the risen Lord Jesus Christ on the road to Damascus everything changed. He tells the audience of his great commission and then knowing king Agrippa to be a man who read the prophets he appeals to the king to adopt the Christian belief. Festus, being embarrassed by the situation, attempts to finish the hearing immediately by declaring Paul to be mad due to his great learning. Paul was not to be silenced so quickly and continues to ask Agrippa whether he believes the prophets. Paul states plainly I know you believe them king Agrippa. At this point king Agrippa and all the dignitaries rise and leave with the king stating Paul's innocence.

G0@ TR=Audio Book Letters to the Elect of God in a Time of Trouble #6 The final consolation part 2_1

The Life Of Christ - #  83 Taking up the Cross. by John Martin

Deuteronomy 27 commands Israel that when they enter the land the nation should be assembled together at Shechem – which means the burden bearer. This town has an incredible history from the time Joshua gathered the nation to this location as soon as the major conquests of the land had been completed until the advent of our Lord Jesus' visit as John 4 records. The village lies in a valley between two mountains – Ebal and Gerazim. Six tribes were to stand upon each of these mountains to hear the reciting of Deuteronomy chapters 27 and 28. The curses for disobedience are found in chapter 27 and the blessings for obedience in chapter 28. Before this happens large stones were whitewashed and the words of the curses and the blessings were written on them. These were to be a record to remind the Israelites of the LORD's favour and goodness in bringing the people into the Promised Land. Additionally an altar of unhewn stones was to be built on Mount Ebal – the mountain of cursing. We, perhaps, puzzle that it should be the mountain of cursing where God's altar was to be. Why? Perhaps since the curses become more prominent in the nation's subsequent history as Joshua would point out towards the end of his life – Joshua 24 verses 18-22. Sacrifices were offered on Yahweh's altar. It is interesting to note that the confusing worship of the Samaritans had its focus on Mount Gerazim (John 4 verses 20). The tribes of Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Joseph and Benjamin were to stand on Mount Gerazim. On Mount Ebal stood the tribes of Reuben, Gad, Asher, Zebulon, Dan and Naphtali. The Levites were to recite in a loud voice all the curses and the blessings. After each curse the people of Israel were to audibly respond with the word “Amen”. Think about that as we find that word in chapter in each of the verses from 15-32. In past ages it was normal practice for each member of the congregation in our ecclesias to audibly say “Amen” as a sign of accord with what had been said. It meant that we were participating in the prayer and agreeing that the prayer was not just for the praying brother, but that it was our prayer. And so we said “Amen” meaning ‘so be it'.. Song of Solomon chapter 7 is in two parts. In verses 1-9a the groom continues from the last verse of chapter 6 in his praise of his bride. This song starts in the concluding words of the sixth chapter. The groom speaks of his soulmate in metaphors describing her feet, her thighs, her navel, her belly, her breasts, her neck, her eyes, her nose, her head, the locks of her hair, her poise and her pleasantries. He knows her every part. Just as our Lord Jesus Christ intimately knows everything about us. And we must come to know him just as we are known – John 17 verses 3-8; 1 Corinthians 13 verses 9-13. In verses 9b-13 the bride responds by declaring that she finds her groom to be desirable in every respect. In verses 11-13 she wholeheartedly gives herself to him in enraptured love. Acts 23 tells of Paul before the Sanhedrin. In a similar way to when our Lord Jesus Christ appears before them, the hearing commences with an illegality from the High Priest, Ananias. That corrupt priest commands that the Apostle be smitten on the cheek – this is contrary to the Law of Moses. Paul reacts to this violation by saying that God would in His time smite the high priest. For this answer Paul is rebuked by those of the Council. The Apostle says he had not recognised the high priest. This seems unusual as in Acts 9 this high priest had given letters to Paul authorising the persecution at Damascus. Some such as Ramsay have suggested Paul's eyesight was poor, due to malaria possibly contracted on his first missionary journey. Others suggest that this is in fact a rebuttal of the high priest's right to hold that office. Paul undoubtedly had poor eyesight as many of his letters attest eg Galatians 6:11. The Apostle sees the impossibility of him getting a fair trial and so he divides the Council on the question of the teaching of the Scriptures regarding the raising of the dead. Verse 8 tells us of the difference in teaching between the Pharisees and the Sadducees. Verse 10 informs us that the disagreement became violent. Paul is once again rescued. Paul's sister's son learns of a plot to assassinate Paul and informs the chief captain. The chief captain immediately responds by sending Paul to Felix the Roman Governor in Caesarea with a heavily armed escort – a journey of two days. This heavily armed company carry with them a letter explaining why the Chief Captain has taken these measures. Chapter 24 speaks of Paul before Felix and of the flattering orator the Jews hired to prosecute the Apostle. The Apostle defends each charge magnificently. Paul points out that he came to Jerusalem for worship and to bring charitable gifts for his nation. The aged Apostle also is a Pharisee. The Pharisaic teachings were an allowable teaching among the Jews. Felix finds himself in a difficult place having some understanding of the teachings of the Way (an early name for believers in Christ Jesus). Felix detains Paul not wanting to fall out of favour with the Jews. Paul is provided with protection and liberty. Having heard of Paul's bringing charity to his fellow Jews Felix hopes to secure a bribe. Felix becomes very disturbed knowing that since he understands the reality of the coming judgment and that he would be subject to the judgment of God. Felix's life makes it certain that he will be rejected when that judgment comes. After two years Rome replaces Governor Felix with Governor Festus. Festus maintains Paul's imprisonment to please the Jews.

Deuteronomy 26 contains the offering of the first fruits and the tithes. The first fruits of the land are always Yahweh's and they needed to be humbly and thankfully presented to the priest with an acknowledgment of Israel's great debt for the Almighty delivering them. Speaking of Jacob's, ie Israel, history they were to recite the words of verse 3. Following the priest's response they were then to answer with the words of verses 5 to the first half of verse 10. Slowly read those verses and reflect how feeble and insignificant we are; and yet how great is our Sovereign's redeeming hand that has been outstretched for us. Verses 11-12 tells us that they were to give their tithes joyfully and acknowledging God's gracious provision to the Levite, the widow and the fatherless. Then they were to recite the words of verses 23-15 in thankfulness to their Creator for the privilege that He has provided in His evident care and compassion for all classes within His nation. The last words of their invocation are a prayer for divine acceptance. Do we give help from a bountiful and generous heart? Verses 16-19 declares that this spirit of obedience is essential and when it is shown will become a preserving blessing for each individual and for the entire nation. In Song of Solomon 6 verse 1 we hear of the bride's companions offering to go with her to seek for the groom. The bride's response is recorded in verses 2-3. Here she says that he has probably gone to his spice garden and that she expects to find her beloved among the lilies. The bride proclaims her intense love for her husband. In verses 3-11 we have the bridegroom's declaration of love for his perfect and magnificent spouse. In a succession of grand metaphors the bride is described. Her presence is awesome and takes his breath away. Her eyes are striking and have captivated her groom. The hair of the bride is thick and shimmering. Her teeth are perfectly formed and matching from top to bottom. The bride's cheeks flush with a healthy rosy glow. When Solomon compares this loved one her beauty excels that of 60 his queens, 80 of his concubines and unnumbered virgins from his realm. In her and in her alone does king Solomon find perfection. The groom's metaphors conclude in verse 4 in the same way that they commenced. His bride is in every way formidable and a worthy companion of her king. Verses 11-12 tell of the bride's response. She sees herself with her incomparable husband transported into a location of many great delights to her senses. She sees herself in Solomon's chariot and her powerful prince the master of every situation. In verse 13 the companions of the bride ask her to come back to them as they are missing her peaceful and calming presence. The song concludes with the groom's endorsement of the pacific qualities of the bride and find those qualities a match with his, ie Solomon's, own character. Acts 21 records Paul's journey to Jerusalem. The Apostle comforts and encourages many groups of disciples as he heads to Jerusalem. An old prophet, named Agabus, attempts to persuade Paul to go no further. Paul will not, like his lord, be dissuaded from going. The first thing Paul does on his arrival is to see James who advises him of the best course of action to be taken so as to avoid trouble. The Apostle is advised to complete his Nazarite vow and to cover the expenses of four other brothers who are completing their vows. James reiterates to Paul that the only binding requirements on Gentile believers are the keeping of the four matters agreed upon at the Jerusalem Conference. However, Paul cannot peacefully complete his vow since he is arrested in the temple by Asian Jews. These hostile Jews mistakenly believe that Paul has profaned the temple by bringing Trophimus, a Gentile Ephesian into the temple. A Tribune from the Roman fort of Antonia rescues Paul and commands that he be chained. The crowd clamours for the Apostle's blood, just as they had for his Lord's some three and a half decades earlier. In the barracks Paul speaks with the Tribune dismissing many of the fanciful thoughts as to who Paul might be. Paul asks for permission to address the crowd from the steps of the fort and his speech is recorded in chapter 22. Paul gives his defence in Hebrew and initially the crowd pays close attention. The aged Apostle describes his own education in the Pharisaic tradition under Gamaliel and his zeal for the Law. After this he tells of his experiences on the Damascus road, his conversion to a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul says that he is warned by Jesus his Lord to immediately leave Jerusalem since his testimony will not be accepted. The Jews attentively listen until Paul speaks of being sent to the Gentiles. Once again uproar follows and the Tribune commands that Paul be scourged that the Tribune might understand why the multitude were so angry with the Apostle. Paul, on this occasion, uses his Roman citizenship to avoid a pointless flogging. The chapter concludes with the Tribune intending to have Paul examined by the Jewish Sanhedrin on the next day.

G0@ TR=Audio Book Letters to the Elect of God in a Time of Trouble #5 The final consolation part 1_1

G0@ TR=Audio Book Letters to the Elect of God in a Time of Trouble #4 Life Consolation, Will-_1

Deuteronomy chapter 25 verses 1-4 tells that for disputes between neighbours in which it becomes apparent that a crime has been committed for which there was no death penalty a judgment is made an the punishment is decided. If a beating was required than the guilty man was to be beaten with stripes from a rod – the number of hits was to be less than 40. Verses 5-11 describe laws for levirate marriages. These were to produce an heir to a family whose father had died without a child. We find several examples of the application of this rule in both the Old and New Testaments. In the Matthew 1, which we believe is Joseph – Jesus' stepfather's – ancestral line there is a levarite marriage. Verses 12-19 contains miscellaneous laws which have their focus on the morality to be evident in the lives of the LORD's holy people. These range from improper sexual practices, to just weights and measures. The nation of Israel is to continually wage war against Amalek and everything that nation stands for. Song of Solomon 5 begins with an invitation by the groom to his spouse to satiate themselves with perfume and edible delicacies. In verse 2 the companions of the bride with a strong affirmation of the benefits of doing this. From verses 2-8 the bride expresses her deep feelings for her husband which means she is sleeping lightly in the hope of his arrival. She speaks passionately of the hope of her husband's company. The bride laments her inability to find her beloved. She spoke of the hinderance, indeed the abuse, to her from Jerusalem's watchmen. This is of course symbolic of the ecclesia's ill treatment by the authorities in the first century AD. The bride weeps and mourns the absence of her Lord. Her companions in verse 9 perhaps suggest to her that she is enduring too much for her groom. From verses 10-16 she tells her companions of the greatness of her incomparable husband. We must share that longing and towering respect for our absent Master. Acts 20 records that after the riot Paul calls for and encourages the ecclesia before departing into Macedonia. Six brethren accompany him as the representatives of their ecclesias. These delegates are carrying relief funds for the poor believers in Judea who are suffering the effects of a great famine. The chapter says Paul stops at Miletus and requests that the elders of Ephesus join him for final words of encouraging and warning. The Apostle gives a very long talk, and because of the poor ventilation in the room a young man named Eutychus falls asleep in the window and he falls three storeys to the ground and is pronounced dead. Paul miraculously raises Eutychus and continues preaching until sunrise. Paul's intentions of a quick visit in to Macedonia appear to have been thwarted and he is now hurrying to Jerusalem to arrive before the feast of Pentecost. The Apostle's speech to the Ephesian elders is recorded from verses 18-35. In summary he tells them of their solemn responsibilities, warning them of a decline due to those who would seek leadership for their own advantage. On the positive side, Paul, in verse 32, commends them to God and the Word of His grace – read aloud, pause and ponder. The Apostle also quotes some unrecorded words of our Lord Jesus Christ – “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (v35). The assembled group pray together on the beach and then an old prophet warns Paul of what would come upon him from the time of his arriving in Jerusalem. They greatly sorrow that they will see his face no more, but they respect Paul's resolute courage.

G0@ TR=Audio Book Letters to the Elect of God in a Time of Trouble #3 Success Limitations, Head-_1

Deuteronomy 24 verses 1-4 speak of the divorce laws for the Israelites. Divorce was permitted on the grounds of a groom finding in his betrothed some evidence of indecency. The Septuagint Greek version uses the word “pornea” to describe this situation. This word speaks of all kinds of perversions as well as unfaithfulness prior to marriage. When the accused woman was sent away with an annulment of the marriage she was forbidden to remarry. This prohibition also meant that her former husband was not allowed to take her again as a wife. Divorce was to regulate behaviour within the nation of Israel. The Lord Jesus Christ reveals this point to us in Matthew 19 verses 3-9. Divorce is abhorrent to the Lord GOD Almighty as Malachi 2 verses 13-16. Shows. Verses 5-22 speak of several miscellaneous laws. Verse 5 tells of a married man being exempted from warfare for one year after his marriage. Verse 6 is about care and compassion for the poor. Verse 7 prescribes death to be the penalty for kidnapping. Verses 8-9 instruct Israel to faithfully follow the Levitical rules relating to leprosy. Verses 10-15 speak of fair dealing among members of God's people. Every member of Israel were to show care and compassion – ie love for one's neighbour. The day labourer was to receive his wages on the same day as the work had been done. Verse 16 teaches the principle that we alone are answerable for our own sins. Ezekiel 18 clearly elaborates that principle. Verses 17-18 speak of the dispensing of justice to be free from bias and to be carried out with integrity. Verses 19-22 tells of the love of the widows and the fatherless children in a generosity of spirit that is seen in their harvesting practices: not stripping their fruit trees. Psalm 68 verses 1-6 and James 1verses 27 reinforce the message of the love and care to be shown to widows, and fatherless children. In so acting the Israelites were imitating their Heavenly Father. Verse 22 of Deuteronomy 24 states the premise for why they must behave as the LORD commanded. The people of the LORD were responding to the redeeming love that underlies their deliverance from Egypt. The entire chapter 4 of the Song of Solomon concerns the bridegroom's words to his beloved spouse. Verses 1-5 present a cascade of magnificent metaphors in which the groom describes the alluring beauty of his bride. In verses 6-7 he claims to be intoxicated by her love and his passionate desires for her love. Verse 8 expresses his desire to take her to the places where the wild scenery of the natural world causes romantic minds to become elevated in their feelings. Verses 9-15 present sparkling images of his intense desire to be with his captivating companion. The song closes in verse 16 with a wish for the fragrant north wind to stir up the aromatic fragrances of Solomon's spice garden. All of this speaks of the intense love of the groom for his bride, ie the Lord Jesus Christ's love of us. Acts 18 tells of Paul's arrival in Corinth. He chooses to live with Priscilla and Aquila, who had recently arrived in Corinth because the Emperor Claudius had expelled all the Jews from Rome, accusing them of being troublesome. Paul lodges with Priscilla and Aquila because they, like himself, are tent makers. This fine couple are mentioned 6 times in the New Testament, and 3 times Aquila's name is given first, and 3 times Priscilla's is mentioned first. This shows that they are partners who work together in everything – including the teaching of the gospel to private individuals. Some scholars believe that the letter to the Hebrews may have been written by Priscilla. Paul teaches in the synagogue at Corinth every sabbath day – that Jesus is the Christ (Israel's long promised Messiah). When the Apostle is fiercely opposed by the Jews Paul shakes the dust from his clothes as the Lord Jesus Christ had commanded in Matthew 10. Paul hires the house owned by Titus Justus, who accepts the gospel and lives next door to the synagogue. From this house Paul continues his preaching. This preaching results in the conversion to the Lord Jesus Christ of Crispus, who is the ruler of the synagogue, and many others including Crispus' family accept Christ. The atmosphere around the preaching is obviously tense and Paul becomes fearful and the Lord Jesus Christ appears in a night and says: “Do not be afraid, but go on speaking and do not be silent, for I am with you, and no one will attack you to harm you, for I have many in this city who are my people” (Vv9-10 ESV). For eighteen months the preaching continues successfully. During the Consulship of Gallio the Jews make a united attack on Paul bringing him before Gallio. Gallio summarily dismisses their claims and drives them from his presence. The Jews take out their frustration and anger on Sosthenes, the then newest ruler of the synagogue. This avails nothing as we see in 1 Corinthians 1verse 1. Sosthenes accepts the gospel and becomes a baptised believer in the Lord Jesus Christ. After this Paul shaves his hair in Cenchrea and sails from Ephesus to Antioch in Syria to complete his Nazarite vow. After spending time with the brethren in Syria Paul resumes his preaching in Galatia. The chapter concludes with the conversion of Apollos, an eloquent Alexandrian Jew – who had known only the baptism and preaching of John the Baptist. Priscilla and Aquila instruct him in the gospel and baptise him into the Lord Jesus Christ. It becomes obvious from this chapter that any who have not been baptised without a complete understanding of the gospel require to be baptised into the “whole counsel of God”: Acts 20verses 18-27. Acts In Acts 19 Apollos comes to Corinth (this was obviously very shortly after his conversion to Christ). Paul arrives in Ephesus and finds there disciples who had only known the baptism and teaching of John the Baptist. Those disciples, 12 in all, are likewise taught the full truth about the salvation in Christ Jesus and are baptised into that understanding. For three months Paul boldly speaks in the synagogue, until sustained resistance from Jewish foes causes Paul to seek other rooms for preaching. The Apostle hires the rooms of a local philosopher – one Tyrannus. Preaching from Tyrannus' rooms continues for two years so that all who live in the province of Asia hear the gospel. God through Paul supports the preaching by many miracles. Seven sons of an itinerant Jew by the name of Sceva attempt an exorcism on a man who attacks and wounds them – the sons of Sceva flee naked from the house where the attempted exorcism had occurred. God by that means shows Sceva's sons to be frauds. The testimony to the gospel causes many practicers of the dark arts (or magic) to forsake their craft and burn their books to the value of approximately $10,000,000. The chapter next says that craftsmen led by Demetrius, a silversmith himself, cause a riot – believing that Paul's preaching is endangering the sale of the miniature figurines of Diana (also known as Artemis) of the Ephesians. Some of Paul's companions are dragged into the arena by men wanting revenge. Paul attempts to go and answer them but is prevented from doing so by his friends. The riotous crowd take out their anger on a Jew named Alexander. The town clerk dismisses the rioters and disperses the crowd. The town clerk says that Rome may very well want to investigate the cause of the riot. Penned by Warwick Rosser and his team, produced by Christadelphianvideo.org

G0@ TR=Audio Book Letters to the Elect of God in a Time of Trouble #2  Triumph, Benefit, Courage_1

Acts 16 speaks of a disciple named Timothy – meaning “of value to God”. He was well recommended by the brethren. Timothy's mother, Lois, was a Jewess, but more importantly a faithful believer. Likewise, Timothy's – grandmother, Eunice, was also faithful – 2 Timothy 1 verse 5. As Timothy's father was a Greek Paul thought that it would be best for Timothy to be circumcised before travelling with himself and Silas. They visit the Galatian believers to strengthen their faith. Whilst attempting to preach the gospel in the province of Asia they were prevented from doing so. God had urgent work for the missionaries to do in Macedonia. They were given a vision of a man from Macedonia asking them for help. Many believe that the man in the vision was doctor Luke, since the pronouns in the chapter change when Luke joined them- see chapter 16:11. It is also interesting to think that Alexander the Great was a Macedonian who claimed to have a vision of the high priest of Israel and the 24 elders coming to meet him (see Zechariah 9). In Philippi, the capital of Macedonia, there were so few Jews that the city had no synagogue. It was by the riverside that Lydia, a lady from Thyatira, believed and was baptised. She was the first convert from that city. “Whose heart the Lord opened” describes the timeless operation of the spirit of God. It's a lovely description. Verses 16-24 describe a demented girl, said to be possessed by the python of Delphi, who follows Paul and Silas and claims that they are the servants of the most high God. After the girl was healed her owners, losing their source of income, had Paul and Silas arrested, beaten, placed in most uncomfortable stocks and cast into prison. Paul and Silas sang hymns of praise to the amazement of the prisoners and their jailor. The response of the Almighty was to a produce a strong earthquake that was felt throughout the city. It also released all the chains of the prisoners. The jailor fearing his prisoners had fled was about to take his own life. Paul called upon him to stop. He took Paul and Silas to his home and bathed their wounds (with their stripes he was healed – see Isaiah 53). The jailor and the believing adults of his household were baptised – the ecclesia was growing. In the morning the worried magistrates tell Paul and Silas to go. Paul says they have beaten the Apostles who are uncondemned Roman citizens. This made the magistrates even more fearful; but must have provided the ecclesia with a measure of protection. Acts 17 tells of Paul, Silas coming to Thessalonica (Luke seems to have stayed in Philippi for the next 7 years), where the preaching had some measure of success until the jealous Jews stirred up the rabble of the city and attacked the house of Jason where Paul and his companions were lodged. Jason is beaten, but the multitude want Paul's blood. The enraged mob claim that Paul has turned the Roman world upside down with his preaching – and indeed he had done that. After taking money for security Paul and his company are allowed to depart. In verses 10-12 we hear that they next come to Berea where the people of that city are more noble of heart as they daily search the Scriptures to see whether what the Apostles claimed was in fact what the Scriptures taught. But sadly, true to form, the unbelieving Jews from Thessalonica come and bring persecution with them. Paul is hurried away from the hostile Jews and brought by sea to Athens. Whilst waiting for Timothy and Silas Paul is stirred by the extent of the idolatry of the city. Paul speaks to the philosophers of the Epicurean and Stoic persuasions about Jesus and the resurrection – the Greeks supposed he was talking of Jesus (a male god) and Anastasis (a female god). Paul is taken to Areopagus (also called Mars Hill) and placed on trial for blasphemy (a charge that carried the death sentence if he is found guilty). Paul commences to preach to them based on an altar that he finds with the inscription “to the unknown god”. He says that they are ignorantly worshipping this god. From the Greek poets Paul tells them that this God made the world and everything in it. He quotes from several of their poets – including the well known Hymn to Zeus (their chief god). But his primary appeal was for them to forsake idolatry and polytheism and embrace the One True God by believing that this God will judge those who do not repent and turn to Him. The majority response is to dismiss Paul's claims as they compare the Apostle to a seed picking bird, which gathers bits and pieces from everywhere. Nonetheless one Dionysius, an Areopagite and a woman named Damaris and a few others become believers. Some said they would listen to Paul another time – but they missed the opportunity for Paul never returned to Athens: compare Ephesians 5 verse 16.

G0@ TR=Audio Book Letters to the Elect of God in a Time of Trouble - Blessings, Council, faith_1

After leaving Antioch in Pisidia following the persecution from the Jews Paul and Barnabas come to Iconium and enter the synagogue and begin preaching. Chapter 14 of Acts tells of the unbelieving Jews who stir up the peace of the city, whose people then make an attempt to stone the two Apostles. Their response is to flee to the nearby cities of Lystra and Derbe in Lycaonia (which means “wolf country”) in the wild north of Turkey. Verse 10 says that the Apostles cure a crippled man. The unsophisticated heathen now decide that Paul and Barnabas are gods clothed as men. These citizens think that Barnabas is Zeus, the chief god; and Paul is Hermes, the messenger of Zeus. Paul and Barnabas quickly tear their own clothes trying to convince the pagan priests that the Apostles are men like themselves. Paul and Barnabas teach the people of Lystra from the Word of God. The first quotation used was from Jeremiah 10:12 – one should read the entire context where “Yahweh the Living God” is contrasted with the idols of the nations. Next the population of Lystra turn on Paul, who continues to be persecuted by the Jews who came from Iconium. They stone Paul and drag him out of the city thinking that he was dead. Paul writes on this in 2nd Timothy 3 and I believe he also alludes to it in 2 Corinthians 1 verse 8-10 (which seems to imply that he was in fact resurrected at that time). Did Paul avoid these vicious foes? No! He stands again and walks back into Lystra – what a witness this is to the power of God. The next day the Apostles continue to travel to Derbe. These cities are part of Galatia – the Apostle Paul would later write a letter to the Galatians. Shortly after the events we have read, Paul and Barnabas revisit those believers and tell them (14:22) that, “it would be with great pressures on believers that God would bring them into His kingdom”. Paul's personal example strongly bore witness to that. The Apostles make administrative arrangements in the communities of the believers and return to Antioch in Syria from where the first missionary journey had started. There they rejoice with their home ecclesia about what God had accomplished through them. Chapter 15 commences by telling us that the Apostles, Paul and Barnabas, had not been with their home ecclesia for very long before believers from Jerusalem come to Antioch in Syria seeking to enforce Jewish customs on these newly baptised converts. A decision is made to resolve the matter by way of a conference in Jerusalem- the year is 44AD. Verse 5 speaks of the matters which are of prime concern to the converts from the Pharisees ie circumcision and the keeping the laws of Moses. Peter commences the discussion by explaining how by the conversion of Cornelius God had indicated that these matters were not necessary. What mattered was what they believed. Further the keeping of law was a yoke of bondage which the Jews themselves were not able to keep. Paul and Barnabas speak next and describe how the miracles and signs God did through those Apostles was evidence of God's acceptance of Gentiles, who He would save by His grace. James, the Lord's half brother, who had acted as Chairman of the Conference, summarises the outcomes in verses 13-21. He adds many supporting Scriptures in his summary. The Council (Conference) writes a letter, the contents of which we are told in verses 22-35; only four binding essentials were to be required of Gentile believers and these were mostly moral behaviours and an attempt not to offend Jewish believers. Two representatives from Jerusalem (Judas and Silas) are chosen to accompany Paul and Barnabas with the circular letter letter to Gentile converts which was to begin its journey at Antioch. The chapter concludes with a sad rift between Barnabas and Paul over the matter of whether Barnabas' nephew John Mark should accompany them in this task. The result is that Barnabas takes Mark with him and goes to Cyprus; while Paul travels with Silas throughout Syria and Cilicia.

Acts 13 speaks of Saul's name being changed to Paul – meaning “little”; since he now saw himself in that way (see 1 Corinthians 15:9). We see that Barnabas and Saul were chosen from a very select group of believers. Barnabas and Paul first sail to Cyprus – quite possibly where Barnabas has connections (he sold his land and business). It was here that the Apostles were aided by God in the face of a powerful enemy. From verses 13-52 we read of the Apostles' journeys to Perga and to Antioch in Pisidia. Antioch was in the mountainous region of Turkey. Paul appears to have been sick at this time. Ramsay speculates that it was perhaps malaria. Paul's address in the synagogue at Antioch is masterful and contains many echoes from Stephen's defence in Acts 7. In addition to bringing salient points from Israel's history to the fore – especially those which focus on the coming Messiah – Paul shows how the Scriptures (in particular Psalm 2, Psalm 16 and Isaiah 55) reveal that Christ would die and be raised to eternal life. Through the Lord Jesus Christ forgiveness of sins would be granted to those believing and accepting God's offer. The next Sabbath the entire city comes to hear Paul's message. The Jews stir up opposition and are denounced by Paul, who declares that from now on Paul and Barnabas would preach to the Gentiles. The Apostles left Antioch shaking the dust from their feet as the Lord Jesus had commanded his disciples to do in Matthew 10 verse14).

The Life Of Christ - #  82 Peter's great Confession. by John Martin

Deuteronomy 20 speaks of laws covering the behaviour of the Israelites in warfare. The priests were to stimulate the courage of the Israelites as they were about to enter into battle. If any man had married recently he would be allowed a year off before joining the army. Similarly anyone would be allowed to partake of their first fruits before enlisting for active army service. Yahweh would fight for His host; however if anyone in the nation was fearful, or doubted their Omnipotent Sovereign's ability to deliver His people then that person was to be sent home so as to not damage the morale of his comrades. For nations other than the seven Canaanitish nations terms of peace were to be offered and if accepted that nation would become a tributary nation. Should terms of peace be rejected then siege would be made, the males of that city would be destroyed and the spoil taken by the Israelites. As for the Canaanitish nations no quarter was to be shown to them, but they were to be totally destroyed. Israel was commanded that during the siege timber could be taken from any tree except fruit trees. Ecclesiastes 12 verses 1-8 instruct us to remember our Creator is the days of our youth. For, says the wise man, the time will come when every desire fails – this he terms the evil day. Those of us who are aging rapidly feel that day encroaching too rapidly. Verses 2 describe the aging process and the declining of the body in a series of graphic and frightening metaphors. Verse 2 speaks of the inability to distinguish light from night and as the bodily heat becomes lost to know what season the aging person is in. Verse 3 tells of the enfeebling of the arms and legs. The same verse tells of the decaying of the teeth and their falling out; and of failing eyesight. Verse 4 is describing the loss of interest in anything external to themselves and the failure to experience stimulation through music and other past delights. Verse 5 describes the anxiety that accompanies aging – everything is an insurmountable trouble. The aged person is resembling a crippled grasshopper dragging itself by its front legs. There is no longer pleasure in anything and the decrepit individual cannot wait for death to come. Verse 6 speaks of the instability of the spine; of the failure of the brain to function; and of the breakdown of the heart. Verse 7 speaks of the end – the body returns to the dust from which it came (Genesis 2:7; 3:17-19). And so, says Solomon, life as an end in itself is entirely meaningless. Verses 9-12 describe the Preacher's exertions to reach wise ways in which there will profit and as assurance of a future. Wise counsel will result in responding to the Almighty and walking in His ways. He will goad us and guide us in the paths of righteousness. God is the Great Shepherd whose Word is firm and His counsel unfailing. And so concludes the Assembler of wise sayings – Koheleth, or the Preacher – in verses 13-14 that the whole, complete, man is the one who reverences God and walks in the way of His commandments. Acts 11 commences with Peter being caused to justify why he baptised Gentiles. We next have a description of the progress of the truth in Antioch in the province of Syria, where believers were first derisively called ‘Christians'. One of these faithful believers is a prophet named Agabus. He prophesies of a great famine that would affect the entire Roman world. The disciples of Antioch start a fund to help Judean believers, who were greatly affected and in dire need. In Acts 12 Herod Antipas kills the Apostle James – the year was AD 44. Seeing how much this delighted the Jews Herod has Peter arrested for execution after Passover. Despite being securely chained between guards the angel of the Lord causes a deep sleep to overcome the guards and releases Peter. Peter proceeds to the house where the ecclesia is gathered to pray for his deliverance. A maid named Rhoda answers the door and runs to tell the disciples that Peter was outside. Rhoda is told that she must be mistaken. The disciples say that it must be Peter's “messenger” (Greek angelos- angel). Peter is admitted to the house and he recounts how he had been delivered. James, the half brother of Jesus. was informed and told Peter to secretly depart to a different location where he cannot be found. Herod kills the guards (verses 20-23). The chapter concludes with an account of Herod's narcissistic claims and his being smitten with dysentery by the angel of God and Herod dying verses 20-23. Nonetheless the Word of God exceedingly prevails.

Acts 8 saw the conversion of a descendant of Ham; chapter 9 of Shem; and chapter 10 of Japheth – part of the pattern of taking the gospel to the entire world – as outlined in chapter 1. The first four verses of Acts 10 tell us of a model proselyte in every respect apart from his ignorance of the gospel, and his need of baptism for the forgiveness of his sins. Cornelius is commanded to send for Peter. Whilst in Joppa Peter had gone to the rooftop to pray. In a hungry state he falls into a trance and is given a vision of all kinds of animals – clean and unclean ie ceremonially. If Peter truly had such scruples why was he lodging with a tanner ie a maker of leather goods who is always surrounded by dead animals that are tanned to produce leather. Three times Peter is commanded to, “rise, kill and eat”; but three times refuses. On the second occasion Peter is told, “Don't call what God has cleansed unclean”. Whilst Peter is thinking about the vision he is summoned by three men seeking his company. The visitors tell Peter of the command which the angel had issued to Cornelius. These three men are lodged and leave for Caesarea the following day. Chapter 11 says that Peter expected some resistance to what could transpire from Jewish converts and so he is accompanied by six faithful Jewish brothers. Cornelius humbly receives Peter, who refused to be honoured. Cornelius reiterates his command from the angel. Peter responds in verses 34-43 by beginning with the vital point that “God is impartial and the basis of His acceptance is a reverence for the Almighty and an attempt to follow in His righteous ways”. In verse 38 Peter reveals the Christ to those assembled as the Word attested to by the Father in the supporting of Christ's words with miracles. As Peter continues speaking the Holy Spirit comes on Cornelius' household just like it came on the Apostles in Acts 2. Peter asks his amazed companions if they could in all conscience forbid baptism. Since they couldn't Peter commanded Cornelius and his household to be baptised. The bestowal of the Holy Spirit and immediate baptism thereafter demonstrate that he believed the gospel acceptably to the Father. The Almighty chooses His children and often shows that by subsequent events: 2 Timothy 2:19.

The year was AD33 when we read in Acts 9 of the conversion of Saul of Tarsus. Saul is seeking to destroy the believers in Christ who dwelt in Damascus. Saul presses on as the fierce Syrian sun burns brightly in the sky. Saul is blinded by a light stronger than the sun and he is stirred by a voice that he may well have known, “Saul, Saul why are you persecuting me?” The Syriac Pashito, whose phrase, “It is hard for you to kick against the goads” is added to the English KJV. Saul's response is, “Who are you Lord?” With his eyes blinded and his mind in total turmoil and his entire world view turned upside down (as would be said of him in Acts 17:6) he is led by the hand into the city to await instructions. For three days Saul neither ate nor drank. Ananias is told to go to Saul to lay hands on him to recover Saul's sight. Ananias is further told of Saul's mission which Almighty God has marked out for him. Saul is a chosen vessel to take Christ's message before kings. Ananias goes to the street which ironically named “Straight”. Ramsay says in his book that it was the most crooked street in all Damascus. Ananias courageously lays his hands on Saul and restores his sight and imparts to Saul the Holy Spirit. Saul preaches Jesus in the Damascene synagogues to the astonishment of all. From there Saul goes to Jerusalem and seeks association with the believers, who shun him believing that Saul is using a ruse to get among them. Respite from persecution is granted to the ecclesias. Peter heals Aeneas at Lydda slightly inland from Joppa; then at Joppa he is shown the clothes that Dorcas had made for the widows and orphans before her decease. Peter raises her to life to continue her work and from there Peter he goes to the house of Simon the tanner. We might pose a question: Did Peter go to the house of a tanner to prepare himself to accept that ceremonial uncleanness was no longer relevant as we will see in our reading tomorrow from Acts 10?

Acts 8 records that Saul accepted responsibility for Stephen's stoning and sets out on a course of destruction like an enraged bull. The objects of his persecution are the faithful believers in Christ. However, the greater the persecution, the faster the gospel spreads. Philip preaches Christ in Samaria and his testimony is supported by miracles. The city of Samaria had been bewitched by Simon the Sorcerer. However Simon recognises the difference between his tricks and the powerful workings of the Holy Spirit. The record tells us that baptism only took place for believing adult subjects. Verse 12 provides us with a definition of the gospel – “the things concerning the kingdom of God and the things concerning the name of Jesus Christ”. Although Philip could perform miracles he could not bestow the gifts – that only occurred through the laying on of the Apostles' hands. Simon seeks to buy the gifts from Peter and John and is grievously condemned for attempting this. Philip is next told to join the chariot of an Ethiopian eunuch of great authority under Candace their Queen. This eunuch was a proselyte and was reading Isaiah 53. The eunuch tells Philip that he fails to understand what the prophet spoke of. Philip commences with that chapter and explains Christ to the eunuch. No doubt Philip's preaching included the blessings from God on the eunuchs who choose the ways of God (Isaiah 56). Philip and the eunuch come to sufficient water for immersion. Philip explains to the eunuch that providing he has a wholehearted belief in Christ he may be baptised. Note how the record says that they both went down into the water and came up out of it together. The eunuch continues on his way rejoicing; but Philip is immediately snatched away to Azotus some 40 kilometres distant – the Lord having further work for Philip to do there.

In Acts 7 we have Stephen's defence. Stephen shows a) God is not confined to a Temple, or place; and, b) Israel's history illustrates a pattern of rebellion against the leaders God sent them. Stephen begins by telling the Sanhedrin Council – his accusers – that the God of glory appears to Abraham, not in the Land of Israel, not in a temple but in Mesopotamia. When Abraham dies the only inheritance he has in the land is the burial plot he has recently purchased. Stephen enumerates the terrible behaviour of the 12 sons of Israel. God raises up for His people Israel in Egypt a deliverer – Moses who was raised as an Egyptian prince. Stephen says that Moses was “mighty in words and deeds”. But this self confident prince thought it would be via his might and power that the Almighty would deliver His people. But at this time they reject Moses – just as they rejected Jesus in his time among God's people. Moses flees from Egypt a fearful and disillusioned man. Once again the glory of God is revealed to Moses outside the land in the Sinai desert by an angel at the burning bush in Sinai. Moses worships the LORD here. And for 40 years Moses leads Yahweh's people through the Wilderness and he is supported with signs and wonders from God. And it was Moses who had declares, in Deuteronomy 18, that the LORD God would raise them up a prophet like himself. God did send them that prophet – His Son Jesus – whom they had failed to hear. Idolatry and disbelief are Israel's characteristic pattern throughout their history. The same traits continued and caused them to be exiled in Babylon. Once again their persistent hard heartedness and their resistance to God had been evidenced in their crucifixion of God's Holy Son. At this point the hostile audience gnash upon Stephen and drawing him outside the city and stoning him. In his dying moment Stephen is granted a vision of the Son of Man, from Daniel 7 returning to set up his kingdom. He prays for their forgiveness – but omits Jesus' words that ‘they knew not what they were doing'. Stephen asks that the spirit of his testimony be received as a witness of his life.

Acts 4 spoke of Barnabas' generous act in selling land and donating the proceeds to the ecclesial common cause. Barnabas may well have been the rich young ruler of Matthew 19. In Acts 5 couple named: Ananias and Sapphira, want the ecclesia's acclaim without giving all of the proceeds of their sale of land. It was their right to do with their money as they pleased. Their sin lay in lying – attempting to deceive God and other believers. It cost them their lives and was a great wake-up call to the ecclesia. We are told from verse 12 of the mighty signs that support the Apostles' preaching The chapter says that Peter and John are arrested and put in the public prison overnight. The angel of the Lord comes and releases those 2 Apostles and tells them to continue to proclaim “the words of life”. At daybreak Peter and John were enthusiastically preaching in the temple. The Apostles are rearrested by the officers, but this time quietly for fear of the people and once more the Jewish Council forbids them to preach full stop. The Apostles' answer in verse 29 is a message to believers for all time, “We must obey God rather than men”. Their bold testimony was an evidence that they were Jesus' disciples. Gamaliel counsels his peers to desist from opposing, or harming, the Apostles, since historical evidence – Gamaliel asserts – always showed that what was not from God was doomed to fail. In chapter 6 we have a complaint from the Hellenistic believers that their widows were not being treated fairly in the daily distribution of help. Seven faithful believers of Grecian background were chosen to rectify the matter. One of the seven, Stephen, was seized by the Jewish rulers and falsely accused of speaking words against Moses and the temple. False witnesses are secured and tell lies against Stephen. Those members of the Council behold Stephen's angelic appearance and demeanour.

In Acts 3 we have the healing of the crippled man, who was lame from birth and greater than 40 years of age (4 verse 22). He represented Israel and their inability to walk before God. Peter commanded the lame man to fix his gaze on them, which he did expecting alms. He got greater – he received healing and discipleship; and walking, and leaping, and praising God he entered the temple with Peter and John. Remarkable words of witness follow with the testimony that there is no other name under heaven by which salvation can come; than our Lord Jesus Christ. Buddhism, Hinduism cannot save. Our Lord was the stone rejected by men, but chosen and precious to God (Psalm 118 verses 22). Peter outlined in verses 19-26 what they must do. The rulers sent officers in chapter 4 to arrest Peter and John. Note that the number of disciples had now reached 5,000. They were cross examined by the Counsel and commanded to refrain In Acts 3 we have the healing of the crippled man, who was lame from birth and more than 40 years old ( 4:22). This healing has many parallels with the testy of the crippled man at the pool of Bethesda in John 5. The crippled man represents Israel and their inability to walk before their God. Peter commands the lame man to fix his gaze on them, which he does expecting alms. The crippled man receives far greater – he receives healing and discipleship. And walking, and leaping, and praising God he enters the temple with Peter and John. Remarkable words of witness follow with the testimony of Peter that there is no other name given under heaven by which salvation can come than our Lord Jesus Christ. Buddhism, Hinduism and all other isms cannot save. Our Lord was the stone rejected by men, but chosen and precious to God (Psalm 118 verse 22). Peter outlines in verses 19-26 what they must do. The rulers send officers in chapter 4 to arrest Peter and John. Note that the number of disciples had now reached 5,000. They were examined by the Counsel and commanded to refrain from preaching Christ Jesus. The Apostles' response is that: “We cannot cease from doing what the Almighty has commanded us”. Peter and John are threatened and released. Upon joining their fellow believers the two Apostles together with their assembled brothers praise the LORD and in prayer speak of what had just happened as being a fulfilment of Psalm 2. Their Sovereign's response to their prayer is a shaking of the house they were in. God is further demonstrating His power in support of their testimony. This was given as yet another endorsement by their God of His guarantee to support his ecclesia's faithful testimony. The spirit of unity and community is spoken of in verses 32-37. Oh for such a spirit among believers today!