Leviticus 25 tells of the year of the Jubilee (Hebrew, "Yobal"). This was the year of release for all manner of servitude; land reverted to the original family owner with the cancellation of all debts. It occurred every 50th year and began 49 years and 6 months after the completion of the previous Jubilee; and lasted for 1 year. Its commencement was marked by the sounding of the silver trumpet, which spoke of redemption. There are many incredible patterns associated with the Yobal, both in ancient times and also in the modern era. 1847 the series of lectures delivered by John Thomas, which produced the remarkable book "Elpis Israel" (at the same time Karl Marx released the Communist Manifesto in his book
"Das Kapital"). 1897 was the first Zionist Congress in Basle, Switzerland, where Theodore Hertzl declared "today I founded the Jewish State"; which in fact occurred 50 years later on when in 1947 the United Nations Select Committee on Palestine, UNSCOP, decided to partition the Promised Land leading on to the declaration of the State of Israel on 14th May, 1948 (the flag of Israel was raised at midnight following that day - making it actually the 15th of May Jewish time; but the Declaration of the State of Israel had occurred on May 14th). Now for the chapter breakdown:
Verses 1 to 7 Sabbath for the Land;
Verses 8 to 13 The Year of Jubilee;
Verses 14 to17 Regulations for sale and purchase;
Verses 18 to 22 Exhortations against fear of shortages;
Verses 23 to 24 Land rights ultimately belong unto Yahweh;
Verses 25 to 28 Assistance to the poor to help with
re-purchase;
Verses 29to 34 Laws of house sales:
Verses 29to 30 Metropolitan
Verse 31 Country
Verses 32 to 34 Houses and
fields of the Levites
Verses 35 to 38 Usury not to be taken from a brother;
Verses 39 to 46 No Israelite to be made a bond slave, only of the Gentiles;
Verses 47to 55 Redemption of a poor Israelite from servitude to a stranger.
Psalms 135 and 136 speak of identical themes, but with slightly different words. The recurring phrase in Psalm 135 is the need to praise the name of Yahweh because of His mighty deeds on behalf of His people, Israel. The Psalm could be entitled, "Your Name, O Yahweh, endures forever". The Psalmist traces God's awesome deeds performed on behalf of Israel from the time the patriarch Jacob, that is Israel, took possession of the Promised Land. The nation was our Sovereign's peculiar treasure, as verse 4 tells. The song traces the providence of the Almighty for His people as He delivered them from Egypt. It outlines their Maker's care for them in giving them victories over the giants of Sihon the king of the Amorites and Og, king of Bashan. Their Omnipotent Creator gave them the Land promised to their faithful forefathers. What power in heaven, or in earth, is comparable to our LORD's. The gods of the heathen are impotent idols. And as verse 18 declares, "They that make them are like unto them: so is every one that trusts in them." Who is it that you have placed your trust in? Hopefully not in yourself. For what folly that would be! Hopefully you are not striving for material success. Again, how futile is that! But slowly read aloud the final three verses of the song and make the affirmation with the Psalmist, "Blessed be Yahweh out of Zion, who dwells in Jerusalem. Praise to Yahweh (Hallelujah)".
Psalm 136, as Psalm 135, commences by praising the creative might of our Omnipotent Creator. It once more outlines the Almighty's providential care for His people, Israel. The choir would sing of the victorious LORD and His triumphing over every foe of His people. Then the entire nation would acclaim that truth by uttering the refrain, "O give thanks to the Lord of lords...", or "to the God of gods"; and similar phrases dotted throughout the Psalm. However the most pronounced; and greatly emphasised refrain is, "for His mercy endures for ever". Repetition is a great tool for learning and understanding the core message of the Psalm. Never let us forget that,
"OUR SOVEREIGN'S MERCY ENDURES FOR EVER".
And let us praise and thank Him constantly for that wonderful and dependable character of our God.
Luke chapter 8 begins by naming some of the women who accompany our Lord and his Apostles. Among them was Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod's nobleman (consider some of the difficulties this may have occasioned - perhaps very similar to Obadiah, the steward of Ahab; who had fed 100 of Yahweh's prophets during the great drought). The Parable of the Sower is taught, as the basis of understanding all of our Lord's parables. As we have seen it can be called the parable of the soils; as the seed sown is the same - it was the response that differed. The chapter then records an explanation from Jesus as to why our Lord spoke in parables. It was to reveal the message to the seekers and to confound the self righteous. The teaching by parables is a fulfilment of Christ's mission and is explained in Psalm 78:1-4 and Isaiah 6:1-13. Then follows the parable of the lamp on the table which outlines the disciple's responsibility to spread the Gospel. Jesus' mother and brothers, being concerned for him, seek to curtail his preaching. They are told to join the supporters rather than those who are slowing down God's work. Next Jesus calms a storm demonstrating that he is indeed the Son of God (see Psalm 107 verses 23 to 32). The chapter then says that he heals the man called Legion. Whose curing is proved by the destruction of the pigs. The Jews should not have been breeding these as the Law of Moses forbad it. The record follows with the curing of the woman with the issue of blood for 12 years (note Luke's ironic comments about his fellow doctors). Then Jesus raises the twelve year old daughter of Jairus (whose name means 'enlightenment') and presents her alive to her parents. Christ shows that he is indeed the Good Shepherd of John 10 when he said to the child "little lamb arise".
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Numbers 14 tells of Israel's rebellion against their obligation to take possession of the Promised Land. The congregation believed the report of the 10 faithless rebels, who had said that the conquest of the Land was impossible. The entire assembly sided with these men and sought to remove the God given authority of Moses and Aaron. These rebels appointed a captain over them and said that it would have been better if they had all died in Egypt. Joshua and Caleb unsuccessfully tried to turn their minds back to the promise of God. The enraged mob were now determined to stone Joshua and Caleb. Our Sovereign now entered into the contest and told the faithful to separate themselves whilst our LORD would send His plague to destroy the rebels and start with a new nation out of Moses. From verses 13 to 19 we are told of Moses' intercession for the nation. Moses recalls what the name bearing angel had taught him about Yahweh's merciful and gracious character. Moses was fearful that the Great Name that had been magnified through Israel's deliverance from Egypt would now be disgraced. From verses 20 to 38 the Almighty pronounces two oaths. The first oath related to the saving of Caleb and Joshua and the giving to of the promised land to them. By contrast the second oath declared that none of the rebels would ever see the Land. The second oath incorporated Yahweh's declaration to "fill the earth with His glory" (14 verse 21). This covenant was sworn upon God's very existence. The theme is prominent in the Old Testament - Psalm 72 verses 18 to 19, Isaiah 6 verse 3 and 11 verse 9
Habakkuk 2:14. The Isaiah 11 quote tells us that the LORD's glory is more a moral glory associated with understanding and action than merely a physical splendour. Moses understood this when he asked in Exodus 33 verses 17 to 19 to have Yahweh's glory revealed to him. The response from the name bearing angel is stated in Exodus 34 verses 5to 8; see also Jeremiah 9 verses 23 to 24. The writer to the Hebrews tells us in chapters 3 and 4 that their failure to enter the Promised Land was due their hardness of heart and their failure to trust in the Living God. As a consequence the carcasses of the rebels were strewn through the wilderness over the next 38 years. The 10 faithless spies died in the plague that the LORD sent. Verses 39-45 tell us that the Israelites refused to accept the punishment God had declared and futilely attempted to take the land; despite Moses imploring the nation to abide by their Sovereign's decision. The rebels were sorely defeated by the Amalekites and Canaanites.
Proverbs 10 commences the second section of the book. Chapter 10 verses 1 to 19. 19 is spoken in the third person.
Chapter 19 verses 20 to 22 is delivered in the second person. Chapters 10 to 12 of Proverbs address the theme of a wise son makes his father glad. This theme is stated in chapter 10 verse 1. Verses 2 to 32 tell us that this wisdom is seen in righteous actions. Verses 2 to3 declare that the way of righteousness is the best security. Verses 4 to 5 say that industry is the wise way and that idleness is foolish. Verses 6 to 7 state that righteousness brings blessings. Verse 8 contrast the teachable (meek) and the opinionated. Verse 9 tells us that only the wise walk confidently. Verse 10 reveals that the one who winks with his eye is a deceiver. Verse 11 reveals that the secret to eternal youth is to be found in responding to the words of the righteous. Verse 12 outlines that the righteous seek to cover another's faults rather than to stir up strife. Verse 13 speaks of the wisdom of listening as opposed to being stubborn. Verse 14 tells of the wisdom of storing knowledge and the folly of a babbling fool's mouth. Verse 15 explains the folly of trusting in wealth. In the 16th verse the counsel is to use wealth wisely. Verse 17 asks the wise to remain teachable - ie meek. Verses 18-21 explain how words may be beneficial or harmful. Verse 22 is the secret to happiness in life - "the blessing of Yahweh that makes rich, and there is no sorrow" with that blessing. All other riches are vain, deceitful and accompanied by sorrow; see 1 Timothy 6 verses 5 to10. Verse 23 says that wisdom seeks true pleasure; not the false pleasure of fools. Verses 24 to 25 describe the insecurity of the wicked. Verse 26 says that the slothful is useless and annoying. Verses 27-30 tell that there is great security in walking in the path of righteousness. Verses 31 tot 32 outline that the wisdom of the righteous will be rewarded with abundance and the acceptable fruits of righteousness - see James 3 verses 13 to 18.
Luke chapter 23 commences with Jesus before the Roman Governor Pilate, who wants nothing to do with the trumped up charges levelled against our Lord. Pilate pronounces Jesus innocent and hearing he was from Galilee felt he could evade any responsibility by sending him to Herod. Herod had been curious about Jesus for some time. Upon questioning him, without an answer from Jesus, Pilate reverts to allowing his soldiers to mock and brutalise our Lord. Having found no fault in our Lord Jesus, Herod returns him to Pilate - a partial reconciliation occurs between the two potentates. Pilate once again declares Jesus innocent, but allows him to be brutally scourged (scourging was sometimes called the intermediate death - and many a man died under the barbaric scourge). Even this failed to evoke any pity. For the third time Jesus was pronounced innocent. But the chief priests stirred up the crowd to bay for Jesus blood. and badgered Pilate into a decision that he did not want to make. Our Lord was delivered to be crucified and Barbaras was released. Jesus was so weak that the Romans pressed Simon of Cyrene to carry the cross. This man and his two sons became disciples. The women on the road to Calvary wept as they beheld our Lord, but Jesus told them to weep not for him, but for the miseries that would fall on them. Jesus was crucified between two thieves, who could have been Barabbas' followers. The place of his crucifixion was that of a skull; again in all probability that of Goliath's skull. The soldiers gambled for his clothes, as had been prophesied. Jesus, himself implored his Father to forgive them as they knew not what they were doing. One of the two thieves crucified with our Lord railed upon Jesus The other thief turned in repentance to Jesus and asked for Jesus to remember him when Jesus would come in his kingdom. Very likely the second thief understood the Gospel of the Kingdom. He was given the assurance of a place in that Kingdom. Jesus' words were that the thief would be with the Lord in that day. Neither were in paradise that day for Jesus spent the next three days in the tomb. Our Lord suffered the taunting of sinners, by masterfully controlling himself and as such our Lord was the Victor. Jesus died calmly at about 3pm and seeing that demeanour a hardened centurion exclaimed that surely this man was the Son of God. For six hours the Almighty veiled the scene with darkness, as a sign of His indignation at their doings. When Jesus died there was a great earthquake and the veil of the temple was torn from top to bottom - showing God's displeasure. The law was now finished and Christ had opened of a new and living way. Two counsellors - Joseph and Nicodemas - from the Sanhedrin secured the body of Jesus from Pilate and took it to Joseph's unused garden tomb. The women, who followed our Lord and had just witnessed his crucifixion, now followed Joseph and Nicodemas to see where Jesus' body was laid and where they would later need to come with the spices they would purchase for his burial. The women then rested on the Sabbath day.
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Numbers 12 describes Miriam's and Aaron's outspoken opposition to Moses. Moses emerges as an outstanding example of a servant of God. It was a clear case of jealousy from two older siblings towards their younger brother. Miriam was about 87 years of age, Aaron about 83 years of age and Moses was 80 years old. Miriam had led the Israeli women in song after the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea. Aaron had, sadly, failed in the incident of the golden calf - but this failure was uncharacteristic. As well as jealousy there may have been a degree of racism, since the record says they chose their point of argument to be that Moses had married an Ethiopian woman. The Lord God intervened against their disparaging criticism of Moses. Miriam who failed to understand the role of a sister, even a prophetess and sister of the leader, was smitten with leprosy. Aaron cried out calling upon Moses to heal her. Moses acknowledged and supported God's appointments and said that his sister and brother must support the divine arrangements. Miriam suffered for seven days before her Sovereign removed her affliction. The Almighty commends Moses' meekness and speaks of the superiority of Moses over regular prophets. Moses was more than a servant; he was Yahweh's friend and spoke directly with Him - not through dreams and visions. Moses was one of the greatest men in Old Testament history. Jesus' meekness was incomparable - see Matthew 11:25-30 (this despite our Lord's greatness). The writer to the Hebrews captures the surpassing grandeur of our Lord Jesus Christ in chapter 3:1-6 - read aloud these verses. Pause and ponder the greatness of God's Son. Also Jesus says that he calls his disciples "friends". Greatness is measured, not by esteem from men, but in service to God and those whom our Father has called.
Chapter 13 of Numbers describes the choosing of the 12 princes - one representing each of the 12 tribes - to spy out the land of Canaan. The spies were told their task. After 40 days the spies returned and presented their reports. Ten of the spies verified the fruitfulness of the land, however their description of the fortified cities and formidable giants caused them to deem the conquest of the land to be an impossibility. Two of the spies gave a minority report that the land was theirs for the taking since Yahweh was with them. This chapter and Numbers chapter 14 are commented on in Hebrews 3. We will make further comments in the readings for March 31st.
Proverbs chapters 8 and 9 complete the first section of the book. Chapter 8 presents Wisdom's appeal. Chapter 9 tells of two feasts to which the young man is invited. He must choose between Wisdom's feast and Folly's feast. Both Wisdom and Folly are personified as women making their respective appeals. Chapter 8:1-3 outlines Wisdom's call. The call is open and fulsome - to all from every place. Verses 4-11 tell of Wisdom's audience and explain why she should be trusted. There is no downside in trusting her. All the blessings and benefits shout out that she must be chosen; it is in our interest to choose her. Verses 12-22 describe Wisdom's House, what she does and the rewards she gives. Those who respond to Wisdom's call will understand the ways of the LORD and will choose to walk in those paths. Without wisdom kings and rulers are doomed to failure. David had so instilled these values into Solomon's mind that when asked by God what Solomon would choose - he chose wisdom. Verses 22-31 are to be understood in two ways. Firstly that Yahweh's wisdom characterised His Creation in the beginning. And, secondly it is a personification of our Lord Jesus Christ. Nothing in creation was made without our Lord God focusing on creation's relationship to Jesus. Jesus is the centre and object of the entire Creation. Both the letters of Colossians and Hebrews emphasise that.
Chapter 9 of Proverbs in verses 1-18 describe the rival feasts. Verses 1-6 tell of Wisdom's feast. Wisdom's table is prepared and she speaks of those to whom her appeal is directed. Verses 7-12 calls for an open mind to receive Wisdom's words and the benefits that will flow from a mind open to truth and wisdom. Verses 13-18 by contrast tell of the feast of Folly and of the disastrous consequences to those foolish enough to choose foolishness. It is a matter of life and death for the choice you make. Compare the appeal of Moses in Deuteronomy 30:11-20 - slowly read aloud and ponder the path you will wisely choose.
Luke chapter 22 begins with a plot to kill Jesus. The conspirators seek to do this as quietly as possible since the crowds who are filling Jerusalem at Passover were massive and were at this time stirred with patriotic fervour. Judas, overcome with covetousness, agreed to assist the rulers in their plan. Jesus had secretly prearranged the keeping of his Passover, called the Lord's Supper, one day before his death. His death on the stake would coincide exactly with the time of the cutting of the throats of the Passover lambs. Nothing must be allowed to interfere with the time Jesus needs to teach them of his love and the great lessons that would steel them against imminent trouble, as well as ongoing persecution. Jesus next addresses an ongoing discussion that the Apostles had been having behind the Lord's back. "Who would be the greatest in the Kingdom of God?" How petty, and ridiculous when the greatest man who has ever lived was about to lay down his life for them. Greatness is measured, not by esteem, but in service. Peter is told by his Lord of his threefold denial, which would occur before the rooster had crowed twice. The disciples would be confronted by the mob and once their Lord had been taken they would need to fend for themselves. The reference to swords applies more to a dirk, or hunting knife. Peter and another of the Apostles had recently purchased these in expectation of trouble. In the Garden of Gethsemane our Lord thrice prays seeking, if it were possible, that there might be another way. So intense was his prayer that he sweated like it were great drops of blood. There is a known medical condition where the human body under extreme stress exudes blood through the pores of the skin. This condition is known as haematohidrosis. Consequently Christ is strengthened by an angel he yielded his will to that of his Father. Yes, indeed, there were two distinct wills - that is impossible if our Lord is one part of the trinity- but here was the Divine Father and His mortal, submissive son. Judas comes at the head of a heavily armed band of temple thugs. How pathetic is it that the sign of Jesus' betrayal was a feigned affectionate kiss. Peter strikes out with his dirk and cuts off the ear of Malchus, the servant of the high priest. Peter is reprimanded by the Lord who miraculously heals Malchus. This is of course another evidence of Jesus' power as the Son of God. Our Lord meekly submits as a lamb to the slaughter to the vicious mob. Christ is led away to six farcical trials. Verses 54 to 62 record Peter's crumbling under intense and increasing pressure until he eventually caves in totally distraught and weeping in bitter remorse. Jesus is mocked and abused by the temple soldiers. Then he was illegally tried before the council of the 72. They were not allowed to conduct matters carrying a death sentence at night. Jesus quotes to the Council the words of Daniel 7:13-14 and tells them that he will judge them. The other gospel records tell us that even the perjured witnesses could not agree among themselves. The high priest brings the charge of blasphemy against our Lord and against the Law condemns Jesus out of his own mouth. The Law of Moses forbad that.
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Numbers 11 deals with one of those times when the lust of the Israelites brought a great plague upon them. They desired flesh to eat, even after the multitude had been miraculously fed by the manna in the morning. Because of the nation's burning lust. As a consequence of this the nation was burnt by the LORD's judgment and so the location principally for this judgment was named Taberah, meaning "burning". Verses 7 to 9 describe the appearance, texture and taste of the bread of the LORD's providing. For 40 years the Israelites were fed with Manna until they entered the Promised Land. Manna means "what is this?" Our Lord Jesus Christ takes up both the murmurs, both in Moses' time and after the Lord had fed the 5,000 people. He explains their questioning his origins and whether Jesus would feed the hungry for 40 years. John 6 from verses 22 to 69 should be read and contemplated.
Verses 16-30 tell of the miraculous provision of the quail and the greed and speed with which they were consumed; eaten with the blood.Seventy additional elders were given to Moses to assist in the governance of the nation, who may have numbered up to 2 million people. Yahweh took of the spirit that was upon Moses and put it on these men, who started to prophesy. Two of those men, Eldad and Medad (meaning "God has loved" and "loving") stayed within the camp while they prophesied. Joshua told Moses to tell them to stop prophesying. Moses replied that his desire was for the Almighty to make all of His people prophets. Compare our Lord Jesus Christ appointing 70 helpers and bestowing the Holy Spirit on these men (see Luke 10). Verses 31 to 5 tell about the plague God sent in response to the nation's greed. It killed many of the Israelites and the place was now called Kibroth-hataavah, meaning "the graves of the greedy". The Apostle Paul tells us that the events which happened in the wilderness were recorded to teach us that "we should not lust after evil things as they did" 1 Corinthians 10 verses 5 and 6.
Proverbs 7 could be entitled, "The Fool and the Seductress". Verses 1 to 5 are a strong appeal for the young man to embrace the commandments of the LORD. When they become the focus of our lives these commandments will direct our paths in the ways of the Almighty; and protect us from being seduced by worldliness. Verses 6 to 23 describe the encounter with and the smooth ways of the harlot. The harlot says to the young man that he is special and should embrace her. But to do so is not only to forsake the morality of God, it is also to be intoxicated with the world - see the Apostle Paul's comments in
1 Corinthians 6 verses 15 to 20. The seducer says that "the goodman is not at home"; she is in effect saying, 'live now there will be time to ready yourself for your Lord's coming later'. The foolish young man yields to her entreating for in fact she is appealing to what he wanted in the first place. Even if that was not his intention, he has failed to heed the Scriptural warning, "Flee fornication". Verses 24 to 26 tell of the disastrous consequences of his foolish choice. The chapter says should you be foolish enough to put yourself in a situation where temptation is highly likely, "then think again!"
Luke 21 is the record of the Olivet prophecy given after 6pm on Abib 12th from the mount east of Jerusalem. The significance of the prophecy deals with events that would occur within forty years of its delivery; as well as matters relating to our days (end times) when the Kingdom of God will be once more set up on earth. The chapter began with a declaration of the widow who gave God all. Jesus foretells of the destruction of the magnificent temple, whose building had begun with Herod the Great; and to that point in time had still not been finished. When the temple was destroyed it would be totally overturned leaving not one stone on another - except for the older foundations which acted as a retaining wall for Herod to build on. Jesus says that there would be wars and rumours of wars but the disciples must wait until the end time of the Lord's prophecy. Persecution would be the disciples' lot, but they would be aided in their testimony before the authorities. Families would be divided over their support for Christ's teaching. Despite Jerusalem being surrounded by armies at AD70 there would be five opportunities for the disciples to flee to safety - the first of these was at the defeat of the Roman Tribune Cestius Gallus in AD66 (the others are mentioned in Robert Roberts book 'The Ways of Providence'). There would be the sign of the Son of Man in heaven, which spoke of the fall of the city to the Roman Emperor Titus. In regards to the final outcome of the prophecy, which relates to the time when the Kingdom of God will be set up on earth; we have the parable of the fig tree (national Israel's symbol), whose statehood began in 1948 and many of us have seen the fig tree blossom and flourish with the reoccupation of Jerusalem, Israel's eternal and undivided capital, in 1967. Be ready our Lord's return and his kingdom is indeed near.
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Numbers 10 describes the purpose of the silver trumpet. It was blown as an alarm when it was time to break camp. The order for marching is told. A different sound was made to call the nation to an assembly. Sometimes the assembling of the tribes was to muster them for war. Also at the joyous festival in the seventh month the trumpet was sounded. The trumpet blast accompanied the offerings that signaled the start of the month, at the new moons. Verses 11 to 36 tell of Israel's departure from Mount Sinai. The packing up the Tabernacle, its furnishings and the marching order of Israel is outlined. Notice in
verses 33 to 36 the ark of the covenant had the role of leading the nation. These verses and the original context are quoted in Psalm 68:1; indeed the entire Psalm draws on the Sinai experiences. When it came to rest there the nation also rested. Our Lord Jesus Christ leads us toward the rest in the Promised Land - the Kingdom of God.
Proverbs 6 verses 1 to 35 gives illustrations of folly. Verses 1 to 5 tell of the folly of going guarantor for another person. Verses 6 to 11 warns against sloth. Look says the wise father at the diligent ants. Failure to act with diligence will lead to poverty. Indolence and laziness will lead to poverty. Verses 12 to 15 tells us that slothfulness is in fact a form of wickedness. Verses 16 to 19 describe 7 things that our God hates. The language here of 6, in fact more than 6 ie 7 is in the Hebrew language what is called "ascending numeration". It is a device that is used for emphasis. Read these verses aloud slowly and let each of us think about our behaviour. Are we guilty of any of these practices. Notice that the list begins with pride. This characteristic is, perhaps, our greatest challenge and our Sovereign's biggest obstacle to bringing us into His kingdom - see 1 Peter 5 verses 5 to 7;
James 4 verses 6 to 8. The list concludes with those who cause dissension in the ecclesia. What wretched people are they who engage in gossip or slander. What untold damage do they cause. The 6th chapter finishes by telling us in verses 20 to 35 about the folly of immorality. The antidote to immorality is to keep the commandments of the LORD as frontlets before our eyes. God's Word will preserve us from walking in wicked ways. The writer speaks of the evils of prostitution and the weakness that vulnerable men show in this way. The wise father describes the disastrous impact and destruction of the lives of those who become so entangled.
In Luke 20 Jesus' authority to preach is challenged by each of the main religious parties of the time. The Lord's rebuttals are both masterful and examples of how to clearly understand and apply the Scriptures. Firstly the priests and scribes came with a question regarding the authority of John the Baptist - was it endorsed by God, or not? Our Lord turned the question back on his adversaries. The priests and scribes refuse to answer our Lord's question knowing that they would be undermined whichever answer they provided. So, Jesus likewise says if you cannot decide on John's authority you are not competent to decide on my authority to preach. So neither will I answer you on the source of my authority. Jesus put to them a parable about the wicked tenants which was designed to show that our Lord was describing his enemies. This was proven by their reaction and demonstrated that they knew Jesus is the Son of God. And for that reason our Lord's foes sought to put him to death. Then the Herodians with the Pharisees came to him with a question about taxes - they were political pragmatists, who were advanced because of Rome's favour. Their trick question was: "Should tribute be paid, to Caesar or not?" A yes answer from Jesus was sure to alienate him from the Jewish people. An answer of no would amount to a charge of treason against Rome. How masterfully Christ answers: "Bring me a denarius. Whose is the image and superscription?" The coin bore Caesar's image - so, says our Lord, pay Caesar what is his. But our Lord Jesus is making a stronger point that we are made in the image and likeness of God. So everything else belongs to our LORD. Next the Sadducees came with a hypothetical question about the resurrection. They thought, once again, that whichever way Jesus answers the answer would make the resurrection farcical. The Lord's masterful answer was that, they were clearly wrong on two counts - one being a failure to understand the Scriptures; and, secondly, a denial of the power of the Almighty. Jesus answers them by quoting from the Book of Moses (Exodus 3 verse 15). If it could be said 500 years after Abraham's death that Yahweh IS Abraham's God, then Abraham's future is assured since the Scriptures only speak of one path to immortality ie through resurrection and subsequently glorification. Our hope is that in the kingdom we will be as the angels are now. Jesus then poses to them a question about Psalm 110 - "If Messiah is David's son then why does David call him 'My Lord'?" The obvious answer being that not only is Christ David's son, but more importantly he is also the Son of God. His enemies were utterly silenced. The chapter concludes with a denunciation of the scribes.
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The first 4 verses of Numbers 8 describe the construction of the seven branched golden Lampstand. Verses 5 to 22 tells of cleansing of the Levites. They were sprinkled with water of purification before having all hair shaved from their bodies. The Levites were now symbolically as as a newborn baby: sinless. A newborn baby is of course one who will in the course of time become an inevitable sinner. The required sacrifices were a bull to be offered for a sin offering.; followed by a waive offering signifying the Levites being given to the LORD by way of consecration. The Levites were then given back to the nation to serve on behalf of their Sovereign. The service of the Levites was by way of working for Aaron and his sons the priests. The Levites were through these sacrifices ceremonially pure and therefore ready for their ministry on behalf of their God. There would be no plague on Israel when these procedures were followed. The end of the chapter tells us that the Levites term of office was from 25 years of age to 50 years of age, at which time the Levites were retired from service.
Numbers 9 describes the first keeping of the Passover one year after it had been kept in Egypt. It wouldn't be kept again until Israel was in the Promised Land 39 years later. The details are the same as those outlined in Exodus 12. The record tells us that there was a group that were unable to keep the Passover at the specified date because they were ceremonially unclean. Moses brought the matter to God who advised that provision could be made to celebrate the Passover on the 14th day of the second month. This provision was used when king Hezekiah kept the greatest Passover ever.
Verses 15 to 23 of Numbers 9 speaks of the cloud from the LORD, which covered the Tabernacle. The cloud also determines when the Israelites journeyed and when they rested ie set up their camp. The cloud spoke of Yahweh's authority, His Word of command. Our journeys ought to be at our Sovereign's word and we will, God willing, take our rest in the kingdom of His Son.
Proverbs 5 is a warning against adultery. We met the strange woman in chapter 3. Now her activities and her lurking wickedness are described in detail in this chapter. Proverbs 5 is described by brother Crawford as, "Wisdom and Chastity". Verses 1-6 tells us about the seductress. She is very prominent in every age, but perhaps even more brazen in this amoral age. Human nature being what it is and the willingness of foolish many to allow themselves to be trapped. A wise word of warning would implore our young men to shun pornography; for as evil as this is it leads on to an increased downward spiral towards certain destruction. The seductress is practiced in smooth double speak. Verses 7 to 14 tells of the catastrophic cost that must be paid by every trapped man. Wise advice is to avoid going to any place where our minds might be captured by the impure displays which prey on our known impulses. Verses 15-23 counsels faithfulness in marriage. The father tells his son of the blessings of a joyful compatible marriage. Our Lord Jesus tells us that sadly not all men will have that experience. 1 Corinthians 6 tells us that there is no such thing as a casual relationship with a strange woman that does not damage a son of God. Marriage to a non believer is forbidden, as is any illicit sexual relationship.
Verse 22 of Proverbs 5 reminds us that everything we do is before the eyes of our Almighty Sovereign. We would hate to hurt Him by our failure to be faithful. Our God gave us the institution of marriage and He insists on our faithfulness to the vows that we made.
Luke 19 records the story of tiny Zacchaeus who had climbed a mulberry tree to catch sight of Jesus, who would pass by among the crowd. The Lord, who was always able to read people's minds, stopped underneath the tree where the tax gatherer was. Jesus said to Zacchaeus, "Today I must dine at your house". In a statement of true repentance Zacchaeus indicates how there would be a recompense to any person defrauded by him (using the language of the trespass offering). This statement by Zacchaeus could indicate that he was already trying to tread the path of the just. Zacchaeus hastily prepared a great feast and invites Jesus to dine with him. The chapter tells of Jesus speaking the parable of the ten Minas. This parable was given because because of the disciples' false expectation that the kingdom of God would immediately appear. The parable was based on the well known historical circumstances surrounding the life of Herod Antipas. The parable is based on the utilisation of abilities which have been distributed by the Lord. The parable tells of the enemies of the kingdom being slaughtered before the king. The chapter next describes the Lord Jesus triumphant entry to Jerusalem on a donkey, which had never been ridden. The crowds acclaimed our Lord as they waved palm branches and recited the words of Psalm 118 and Zechariah 9. The chapter says that Jesus paused as he came over the brow of the hill and caught sight of the city. He wept over it with great tenderness. He explains his love and desire for that city. But like the leprous house the stones of that city would be torn down one by one. Jesus laments that the next time his people would see him would be at a time of Jewish conversion and repentance. At that time the nation of Israel would declare, "Blessed is he who comes in the name of Yahweh". This time will bring blessing for the whole world - at last.
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In Genesis 42 we read of Joseph's 10 brothers being forced by the severe regional famine to go to Egypt to buy grain. Joseph, who was now the Governor in Egypt, spoke roughly to them in order to test them. Joseph did not yet know how events would unfold. The 10 brothers were accused by Joseph of being spies - buy your grain and go, they are told. After being drawn out by Joseph they say that there were originally 12 brothers, and 1 is dead and the youngest remains at home with his father. Part of the trial that the 10 are put through is to endure imprisonment for 3 days (surely Joseph intended to cause them to reflect on their past evil deeds; and to, perhaps, experience some of what had befallen their brother at their hands). Joseph's action had the desired result and he listened to their self examination (since he used an interpreter to talk with them they failed to perceive that he understood their discussions). They had talked of their guilt over what they had done to Joseph. Simeon is kept bound by the Governor, as the brother who bore the greatest responsibility for what was done. The others were sent home with a warning to not return without their youngest brother. Their money was placed in the mouth of each man's sack. They discovered this after stopping to feed their animals. They were concerned that God was telling them that what they did to Joseph was being visited on them by the Almighty. When they returned home they told Jacob everything that had happened to them. Their father's response is to chide them for their loose speech about Benjamin. Jacob also bemoaned his own loss of his two sons, and to say he will never let them take Benjamin when they return to Egypt. Reuben foolishly says to his father to take his two sons as security; and that Reuben will bring Benjamin back with them. He also says that failing that Jacob can kill Reuben's sons. How carnal was this suggestion. Chapter 43 deals with the brothers' return to Egypt. Judah takes the lead in encouraging his father to act responsibly for Jacob's family. Jacob tells his boys to take a present for the Governor of the specialties of the Promised Land - honey, gum, myrrh, pistachio and almond nuts. Finally Jacob invoked the divine blessing upon them. Joseph became emotional on seeing Benjamin, his younger brother. The brothers are invited to dine at the Governor's house. Suspiciously they tell the steward about the returned money. Don't worry he said, I got your money; what you found must have come from your God. Simeon was then restored unharmed to his brothers. On his return Joseph enquired of them as to the welfare of his father. He emotionally leaves his brothers to weep privately. Joseph, acting like an Egyptian, sat at a separate table. The brothers were amazed by being seated in order from eldest to youngest. Food was sent from Joseph's table to their table; with Benjamin's serving being 5 times that of each of his brothers.
Psalm 46 is another from the pen of the sons of Korah. It speaks of great confidence in the Almighty and His control of circumstances. It speaks of His awesome plans for the earth to bring peace for all time; and to cause war to cease. What an inspiring vision. What heartfelt prayers does this cause in His people. What confidence that He rules our lives now; as He soon will in this earth through the rule of His Son. "Yahweh of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge." This is a recurring sentence and beautifully highlights the fact that the God manifest powerfully in hosts - of angels, stars and saints - is the same God who mercifully accompanies and protects the weak individual human, the Jacob. Again we have in Psalm 47 another from the sons of Korah. All nations are commanded to praise and extol their Sovereign king, who reigns over all the earth through His Beloved Son the Lord Jesus Christ. All the Gentile nations have been subdued and subjected to the one in whom the Father's authority has been invested (Psalm 8 verses1-9; Psalm 2). And Israel has as the LORD's heritage and chosen people been exalted to headship over all other nations. God's victory trumpet has signalled His triumph in the earth. Let all peoples praise and extol their glorious King, who by His wisdom has fulfilled His promise to Abraham
(Genesis 12 verse 3; Romans 4 verses 13). And has in that process delivered and protected His people. Psalm 48 is a further Psalm from the sons of Korah in which they celebrate the elevation and coming glory of Zion (the Jerusalem of the kingdom age). It is a magnificent city of glorious beauty that brings forth praises and joy to all peoples. It is lifted up upon a mountain raised by a great earthquake (Zechariah 14, Isaiah 2 verses 1-5). Those who walk about its towers and great walls are struck with awe and wonder by what they see. It is now indeed the Eternal City; rescued from war and become the centre of worship and blessing. Its citizens rejoice and wholeheartedly thank their Sovereign for His accomplishments. Meditate on this and praise the Almighty from generation to generation for all eternity. God had always guided His faithful people and will continue to do so for ever. Jerusalem watchers of all ages are exhorted to give God "no rest, till He establish, and till He make Jerusalem a praise in the earth" (Isaiah 62 verse 7).
Matthew 28 tells that just after 6pm on the Sabbath Jesus was raised from the dead in a dramatic and terror induced experience for the guards who witnessed the angel's powerful demonstration. This provided incontrovertible evidence of the event by impartial witnesses who were in the pay of our Lord's enemies. The risen and glorious Lord Jesus Christ went to meet with them in Galilee, as he had arranged before his death, to give them further infallible proofs of his resurrection and to give them the great commission to carry the Gospel message into all the earth. What comfort is there in his concluding words, "Lo I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
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Numbers 6 speaks about the Nazarite vow. When a man, or woman of Israel sought to serve Yahweh with all their heart, mind and soul; but were not from the tribe of Levi the Nazarite vow gave them the opportunity. Verses 1 to 21 outline what was required to be a Nazarite. The priesthood was restricted to males; but service to God can be given by anyone. Unlike the priesthood, which lasted for the life of the priest, a Nazarite could make a vow for any length of time. The vowed person was to avoid any product of the vine. This was a reminder of the similarity of this service to that of the priests, who because of the drunkenness of two of Aaron's sons (Nadab and Abihu) on the day the Tabernacle began its service were struck dead and therefore thereafter strong drink was forbidden for all priests. Additionally the hair of the Nazarite must not be cut - symbolical that the vowed person's thinking belonged to the Almighty. Like the priests the Nazarite was to avoid any contact with death. We too must serve the LORD with our life (Luke 9 verses 57 to 62).
Verses 9-12 tell of the requirements for the Nazarite should their vow be accidentally broken. The Nazarite must make the specified offerings and start the vow again. Verses 13-21 tell what the Nazarite, who had completed the term of their vow was to do. The sacrifices that accompanied the completion of their vow were similar to those offered when a priest commenced his service.
What a wonderful blessing for the Nazarite to serve their God in love. But the greatest blessing came when their time of service had been completed and Yahweh blessed each one of them individually by pronouncing His love for them and His acceptance of their service by the pronouncing of the priestly blessing on them. This is recorded in verses 24 to26,
"YAHWEH BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU; YAHWEH MAKE HIS FACE TO SHINE UPON YOU AND BE GRACIOUS UNTO YOU; YAHWEH LIFT UP HIS COUNTENANCE UPON YOU AND GIVE YOU PEACE".
Verse 27 says that other great blessing that went with this was like that of the High Priest,
"THEY SHALL PUT MY NAME ON THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL".
The High Priest of the LORD bore on his forehead a golden plate which read, "Holiness to Yahweh". The Lord Jesus Christ said to his faithful followers, "Fear not little flock it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom".
In Proverbs 3 the wise advice from a father to his son continues. Verses 1 to12 is a call to obedience. Stedfast love and faithfulness are to be the chosen companions of those seeking to walk in wisdom's ways. Total trust in their Sovereign was an essential part of their walk. This would teach them to avoid the treacherous path of self trust, which is actually self deception. Verses 9 to12 counsels that the Almighty must occupy first place in our hearts and lives. Give to the LORD the best of everything in our lives; and His blessings will flow abundantly. Verses 11 to 12 says that our Father allows our chastening because He loves us and seeks us to share eternity with Him. The writer to the Hebrews comments on this in chapter 12 verses 5 to 11.
Verses 3 verses 13 to 26 describe the rewards of wisdom. Blessings beyond counting are given by wisdom. The powerful metaphors teach of what the wise woman bountifully provides. Precious treasures; pleasantness and peace; and ultimately eternal life in the Kingdom of the Father and His Son - see Revelation 2 verse 7. In verses 19 to 20 Wisdom is personified as the Almighty's companion before the earth's creation. She will be the crowning glory to those who choose her favours and will safeguard your thinking. This will prevent all those who have made wisdom their choice from walking in worldly ways. Verses 27-35 finishes this portion of advice by outlining the obligations we take upon ourselves when we choose wisdom.
Luke 17 commences with a woe upon any who would be a cause of serious stumbling to Jesus' disciples. This follows Jesus' comments in verses 1-6 on the need for forgiveness which brought the response from the twelve: ""Lord to increase their faith". Yet that faith, like the mustard and mulberry seeds, may be tiny but immensely powerful. We are told that when we have done all, we are still unprofitable slaves. We have but done what was our duty. Jesus cleansed ten lepers, yet only one returned with thanksgiving - and he a Samaritan (presumably the other nine were Jews). When questioned about the kingdom Jesus pointed out that the rulers were looking for outward, observable signs; but they had failed to recognise the most visible and evident sign of all - Jesus the King in their midst. He told them to be ready to go to the kingdom and not be caught up with preoccupation with food and drink and multiple marriages - as in the time of Noah. The same warnings applied to Lot's time with the additional problems of involvement with the absorbing commerce of that time. Some will be ready and waiting. Sadly, others will not. Let us be among the ready, rather than have the eagles strip our bones. There was in this prophecy overtones of the coming judgment of AD70 by the Roman eagle.
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Numbers 5 tells of regulations for dealing with diseased and ceremonially unclean people. It also tells of the rules for these "unclean" people to re-enter the Holy Camp, where the LORD dwelt. The chapter finishes with a test for when a jealous husband suspects his wife has committed adultery. The underlying reason for the offerings that accompanied the restoration of the "unclean" person and the wife who was now clear from the suspicion of her jealous husband was that faithfulness was not accidental, but was an essential part of being the Yahweh's covenant people. It placed upon the Israelites the responsibility of holiness. Hence for the restoration of the ceremonially unclean and the vindicated wife the offering associated with restored fellowship was the guilt offering. Whilst outside the camp the ceremonially guilty parties had not been able to give their reasonable service. For the wife of the jealous husband the acquittal from guilt, or the proving of guilt, was a process that was divinely made. Hence the use of dust from the Tabernacle's floor.
Proverbs 2 tells of the value in a life of wisdom. The opening verse speaks of a faithful father's advice to his son. As Solomon is the author he would be recollecting David's advice to him. Verses 1-22 present wisdom as a precious treasure and a safeguard against choosing bad company, or acting against the commandments of the LORD. Wisdom will not be gained without wholehearted effort. But the effort expended will be richly compensated. God will grant wisdom to the diligent seekers. These seekers will develop characteristics that will be pleasing to their Father. The other side of the coin describes the avoidance of traps that we lay for ourselves when we trust in ourselves. We will shun the wicked woman whose heart is set upon capturing and destroying the upright. She is the other woman in Proverbs. The evil, lurking woman is described in detail in chapter 5.
Verses 20 to 22 tell us that those who choose to walk in wisdom's way will inherit the eternal kingdom of Christ on earth. At the same time of the inheritance of the unfaithful - the wicked - will, verse 22, be rooted from the earth. Those thoughts are the same as those found in Psalm 37.
Luke 16 verses 1 to13 speaks of the parable of the dishonest manager. That lazy and double dealing manager's behaviour is thoroughly unscrupulous. However, in view of his reluctance to work this corrupt steward has secured a temporary safeguard by unjustly favouring future "friends" who will take care of him. When that servant is dismissed from his job he hopes that his newly acquired friends will look after him. Jesus does not in any way commend dishonest behaviour, but, our Lord says that utilising resources for future outcomes is a behaviour in which 'the children of this age' outshine the 'children of light'. The parable can be explained that we hope to receive of our Lord "the true riches" ie eternal life. We are also taught that we must use what we have ie any material wealth in Christ's service. How we have used it is likely to be an index of our faithfulness. All we have God has richly given us. Are we bountiful in bestowing it to help others? Or are we selfish? The Law and the Prophets belonged to an era until John the Baptist came. Now believers must seize the initiative and press into the Kingdom of God. Jesus teaches us that divorce is to be abhorred and that a divorced person should not remarry. The chapter then outlines the parable of the rich man - who is called by some Dives - and Lazarus (the beggar). Note it is a parable addressed to the Pharisees and is not in any way a literal story. It was a derisive taunt against the Pharisees, who had adopted the Grecian mythology about 'immortal souls'. The parable also has a strong message to the high priest Caiaphas and the priestly Sadducean class. Caiaphas had five brothers each of whom succeeded to the rank of high priest. The Sadducees did not believe in resurrection (Acts 23 verses 7 and 8). Within a short time of our giving this parable our Lord Jesus would raise Lazarus from the dead (John 11). And that miracle would result in the Sadducees plotting to kill Jesus. The Sadducees also sought to kill Lazarus because he was a living proof of what they would not believe. Again the parable can be explained at a number of levels. Even in Jesus' derisive taunt punctuation can make the world of difference. The rich man died and was buried in hell - this is universally true for all all of us. Then in the words of the parable followed the resurrection which will be for those who having known better rejected to behave in a Godly way. After resurrection there will be a time of torment - weeping and gnashing of teeth - for the rejected (Matthew 25). Note Jesus tells that the import of the parable is to teach resurrection (verses 30-31). Both classes of leaders (Pharisees and Sadducees) stood condemned because of their failure to "hear the Law and the Prophets". Another clear import of the parable is that a failure to show mercy in our lives today will guarantee our failure to receive from God entry into the kingdom soon to be established.
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In Numbers chapter 4 we are given more details about the carrying of the Tabernacle and its furniture; taking down of the veil and the covering of the ark of the covenant for transporting were the duties of Aaron and his sons. Their responsibility also included covering furniture in the Holy Place. The clan of Kohath had the task of carrying the furniture. Verses 17-49 describe the census of the Levites.
The book of Proverbs contains many maxims and wise sayings from Solomon, king of Israel. We are told in 1 Kings 4 verse 32 that Solomon spoke 3,000 proverbs. The word for proverb is the Hebrew word "mashal" which means a comparison. It speaks of placing ideas alongside other ideas so as to extract meaningful learning. The book is divided into 8 segments. The first 7 verses of chapter 1 speak of the book's title, and contains an introduction and the theme of the book. From chapter 1 verses 8 and 9 and 18 we are told about "A father's praise of wisdom". 10 verses 1 to 22 and 16 "further proverbs of Solomon".
Proverbs 22 verses 17 to 24 tells "Words of wise men".
Chapter 24 veres 23 and 34 outlines
"Further words of wise men".
Proverbs 25 verses 1 to 29 and 27 "Proverbs of Solomon - Hezekiah's Collection".
Chapter 30 relate
"The words of Agur".
Chapter 31 verses 1 to 9 tell us about
"The words of King Lemuel".
Finally in chapter 31 verses 10 to 31 tell of "An alphabet of wifely excellence".
The above breakdown was taken from Aleck Crawford's 3 volumes on Proverbs available from CSSS books.
The purpose of proverbs is to provide the listener with short and memorable sayings, which will provide guidance for life. It is important that we grasp the theme of the book in chapter
1 verse 7,
"THE FEAR OF YAHWEH IS THE BEGINNING OF KNOWLEDGE; FOOLS DESPISE WISDOM AND INSTRUCTION" (ESV).
Fear also speaks of terror, in relation to and designed to develop a respect for Yahweh and His judgements. The word "beginning" means, "the first part; or the chiefest portion". Wisdom as the book will demonstrate gives guidance for living a faithful and pleasing life before God and of benefit to our neighbour. The word for "wisdom", or "knowledge" speaks of the choicest wisdom.
Chapter 1 verses 8 to19 gives counsel to avoid evil companions. Verses 20 to -23 is Wisdom making an impassioned plea to all. The book of Proverbs personifies wisdom as a wise and desirable companion. Verses 24-32 are a lament that the young man has refused wisdom's counsel and he now bemoans the disastrous consequences of his folly.
Luke 15 records the three parables of the lost - sheep, coin and son. "All we like sheep have gone astray" (Isaiah 53) but hopefully we have been recovered by our chief Shepherd 1 Peter 5. However, how poor it was that the coin was lost in the house of believers. Was it lost because of an oversight, or, even worse, because of a lack of care due to the preoccupation of those self interested occupants of the ecclesial house? God only knows! But like in the parable of the lost sheep there is great joy in heaven and on earth in the recovery of the coin. Finally we are told the parable of the Prodigal (or wasteful) son. The wasteful son through hardship brought on by his own lack of understanding of the great benefits that come to all who are blessed to be in our Father's house; as well as the Prodigal son's own greed. In his hardship that son has time to reflect on the love of the father (Father) and to find opportunity to return to the household. The father was anxiously waiting for any news of his son's return and runs to meet his lost son and receives him with great feasting and rejoicing. The elder son symbolises the self righteous Pharisees who could feel no joy when those who they contemptuously call sinners joyfully embrace the father's graciousness. Let us read aloud verses 31 and 32. Then pause, ponder and make sure we love our gracious Father and rejoice when His children return to the fold.
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Numbers 3 briefly tells us of the genealogy of Aaron, the High Priest, and of his 4 sons (two of whom Nadab and Abihu, were slain by Yahweh on the opening day of the Tabernacle) - the priests - the other 2 sons being Eleazar and Ithamar. Verses 5-39 outlines the duties of the Levites. As a result of their faithfulness, in the tragedy of the idolatry associated with the golden calf, the Levites became the ministers who acted for the LORD and in service of the Tabernacle. The Levites answered Yahweh's call: "Who is on My side?" There were 3 sons born to Levi, who was Jacob's 3rd son. Levi's sons were Gershom, Kohath and Merari. These were responsible for the carrying of the Tabernacle and its furniture. The special items of furniture were carried by the Kohathites. The numbers of adult males for the 3 clans is stated in the record. Verses 40 to 51 speaks of the redemption of the firstborn males of the Levites and of their cattle. The valuation for the male Levites was 5 shekels of silver per person.
Psalm 148 completes the Deuteronomy Psalms. The writer, in verses 1 to 12, calls upon every created being to praise Yahweh. Even the inanimate natural created objects to praise the Almighty Creator. Verses 13 and 14 tell us that the greatest praise is due to the LORD because of the redemptive work of our God in raising up "a horn of salvation" for His people Israel and for His saints (the faithful followers of our Lord Jesus Christ). Note how these words are quoted by Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, in Luke 1 verses 68 and 69.
Psalms 149 and 150 are the conclusion to the Psalms; just as Psalms 1 and 2 were the introduction. The Book of Psalms is brought to a crescendo in these two Psalms
(149 and 150).
Psalms 149 and 2 are companion Psalms which carry the same essential message - the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ will be established by the power of the Almighty. None can prevent the kingdom from coming; and the Almighty's wisdom is to be found among those who submit to the divine authority: all resistance will be totally crushed. So the two Psalms bookend the Book of the Psalms. Psalm 149 calls upon the righteous to be glad and rejoice in their king. The humble will extol the triumph of their God. Together with their praises is a readiness to avenge all wickedness in high places (2 Corinthians 10:4-6).
Psalm 150 is a song that was accompanied by a massive orchestra composed of all manner of instruments. It calls upon everything with breath to praise the Name of Yahweh. Every verse of the song commences with Hallelujah, meaning praise Yah; and the Psalm concludes with Hallelujah. Let everyone of us praise God with our lips; but more importantly let us glorify Him by the way we live.
In Luke 13 the enemies of the Lord maliciously attack him by drawing his attention to the Galileans, who Pilate had slaughtered as they were sacrificing in Jerusalem. Jesus tells his audience of Judeans of a recent event where a wall in Siloam - Jerusalem's backyard - fell on many Judeans. Did it happen because they were bad sinners? No, on both counts - but both tragedies provided opportunities for reflection and repentance. This is followed in chapter 13 by the parable of the barren fig tree which represents Israel's failure to bring forth fruit to God. Jesus next, on the Sabbath day heals a woman with an unclean spirit. The parables of the mustard seed and the leaven come next in the record. Then the record speaks of the parable of the narrow door, through which every disciple must strive to enter. Our Lord Jesus Christ laments over Jerusalem - to be torn down stone by stone as the leprous house. He will be welcomed in the Kingdom, when they would say, "Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord" (Psalm 118 verse 26). Chapter 14 of Luke begins with Jesus healing a man on the Sabbath day. That man had clearly been planted as a test for Jesus. Would he heal on the Sabbath day? The Lord was invited to speak at a dinner for Pharisees and Jesus gives advice in the parable of the wedding feast. Then came another parable about the great banquet to which each invited class found excuses not to attend. These people who were called by the gospel to come to the wedding feast of the Son of God all adjudged themselves unworthy of eternal life in the kingdom. As a result of their rejection we have graciously been offered a place. Two parables follow which tell us that as disciples of Jesus we must about count the cost of discipleship and wholeheartedly pursue that goal. Every disciple of our Lord must accept the peace that our Sovereign offers to us through the emissaries of the gospel and then make peace with Him: Ephesians 2 verses 11 to 22. The chapter concludes with the need for zest and salt among our Master's disciples. Salt speaks of sincerity in Christ's disciples as we are told in 1 Corinthians 5 verses 6 to 8.
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Numbers chapter 2 describes the arrangement of the camp of Israel. Everything that their Sovereign gave to His people Israel was orderly and purposeful. Even in what might seem to be simple matters there were divine principles being taught to the Almighty's family. Each tribe had its banner, or flag. Three tribes camped on each side of the central Sanctuary, where the Tabernacle was located. The three tribes grouped on the eastern side of the Tabernacle under the flag of Judah - the lion - were Judah, at the head, and Issachar and Zebulon. On the southern side encamped a further three tribes under the standard of Reuben, the man, these were - Reuben, Simeon and Gad. The order stated for the tribes and for the furniture and tent of the Tabernacle was for camping and setting forth; as verse 34 tells us. What this chapter does not tell us is that the ark of the covenant led the Israelites on their journeying
(Numbers 10:33-36).
Psalm 145 is a Psalm of David which could be titled as, "I will extol you my God and my King". Verses 1 to 3 tell of our Sovereign's greatness and of the worthiness of praising His Name. Verses 3 to 7 speak of each subsequent generation of God's people would relate His awesome deeds and extol and praise their LORD. Verses 8 and 9 summarise the character of the Almighty,
"Yahweh is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in stedfast love. Yahweh is good to all, and His mercy is over all that He has made" (ESV). Compare these thoughts with the LORD's revealing, to Moses, His Name and what it meant
(Exodus 34 verses 5to 7).
The Psalmist proclaims that the remembrance of this would continue to cause the people of God to praise Him and acclaim His greatness.
Psalm146 deals with the powerlessness of every human regardless of their supposed status and power . The prophet Isaiah also commented on this, "Stop regarding man in whose nostrils is breath, for of what account is he?" (Isaiah 2 verse 22, ESV). We must praise God while we have breath. Hezekiah tells us this following his miraculous healing from leprosy. The Almighty extended Hezekiah's life by 15 years. And the king's response was, "For Sheol does not thank You; death does not praise You; those that go down to the pit do not hope for Your faithfulness. The living, the living, he thanks You as I do this day; the father makes known to the children Your faithfulness" Isaiah 38 verses 18 and 19
(ESV). There is no consciousness in death as verses 3-4 state. Thought ceases when we breathe out our last breath. What a contrast to the Omnipotent Creator, the Maker of heaven and earth. When our Sovereign stoops to aid the powerless no power in heaven or earth can resist Him. Verse 8 tells us that He particularly takes up the cause of the widows and the fatherless (Psalm 68 verses 5 and 6; and so must we James 1 verse 27). But the wicked will be dealt with speedily. Praise our God forever you citizens of Zion. Let all generations to come praise Him. Hallelujah.
Psalm 147 tells us that our God is the One who heals the broken hearted. Verses 1-3 celebrate the care of our Heavenly Father in gathering the outcasts. The awesome power of the Creator is told in verses 4-5; as He knows each star by name. Verse 6 tells of His gentleness. What a wonderful combination of characteristics are present with our God. Hannah spoke of them in her prayer recorded in 1 Samuel 2 verses 1 to 10. In Psalm 147 verse 7 the faithful are called upon to offer thanksgiving to their Sovereign. Once again verses 8-10 blend His great power and His disdain for human pride. What He asks from His children is reverence and a trust for His stedfast love. Verses 12 to 20 tell of the blessings He bestows upon His children. But note that the emphasis upon the knowing of His Word and the understanding of His ways are stressed above and beyond any of the material blessings.
In Luke 12 the Lord counsels regarding the destructive teachings of the Pharisees. Our Lord Jesus says to his followers to have no fear when they are tried and killed by the religious authorities. This is because our Father has power over everything - including life and death. When giving testimony before rulers believers would be aided in their witness. In the parable in this chapter of the rich fool (based on the life of Nabal in 1 Samuel 25) our Lord refuses to arbitrate in a property dispute between two brothers. Instead Jesus turns the opportunity into a discussion about the dangers of covetousness and the need to be rich in loving service to God at all times. Christ urges the disciples to be free from anxiety. Look at nature and the Almighty's abundantly providing out of His richness. Disciples need, as wise and faithful servants, to be in a state of continual readiness for their Lord's coming. A constant challenge for disciples is that often times family opposition will be the result of a person's acceptance of Christ. As disciples we must be alert to the era in which we live. Our Master is standing at the doorpost of our hearts and knocking: Revelation 3:20-21. Finally if believers find themselves in a dispute they need to quickly reach agreement with their adversaries or the results may be much worse.
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In Numbers we come to the fourth of the five books which are called "The Book of Moses". It is an account of Israel's wanderings in the wilderness following the nation's miraculous deliverance from Egypt; as a necessary punishment for their disobedience and of vital importance in shaping the new generation that would enter into the Promised Land. Numbers chapter 1 is a census of all the men who were twenty years old and above. We are told in verse 46 that the total was 603,550 men. This did not include the Levites who were not numbered. Numbers 26 provides a census for the new generation about to enter into the Promised Land. The new generation numbered 601,730. The second numbering should have seen an increase in the population of Israel. Instead there was a decrease due to the failure of the older members of the nation to take heed to the Word of God. And because of this we are told that they perished in the wilderness due to their evil heart of unbelief; and failure to hear the words of the Living God (Hebrews chapters 3, 4).
Psalm 143 is a prayer of David's in which he tells of his thirst for God's righteousness. It is perhaps the writer's reflection on Psalm 42, which was authored by the sons of Korah. It is of course an insight into the mind of the Messiah - our Lord Jesus Christ, who declares in Matthew 5:6, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be satisfied". David's spirit had been crushed by persecution. However when the Psalmist, in verses 5-8 reflects on Yahweh's wonderful past deeds his spirit revived within him. The Psalm concludes with David's remembrance of the LORD's steadfastness and loving kindness; and David's own determination to be be taught by these qualities of the Almighty and be both taught and led in the paths of salvation.
Psalm 144 is a companion Psalm to Psalm 8. Both were written by David to celebrate his slaying of the giant Goliath recorded in 1 Samuel 17. Psalm 144 tells of David's aspirations and motivations as he went out to confront this colossus of flesh. It was that the people of the LORD might prosper in peace and walk in the ways of their God. An interesting study can be made by using a concordance to look at the different Hebrew words that are used for "man" in both Psalms. The exercise should prove instructive and provide valuable lessons as to how faithful people need to think.
In Luke 11 we start with a record of, what is termed, the Lord's Prayer. It is a model prayer, not a mantra to be repeated without thought. It commenced with an acknowledgement of the Father's awe inspiring status. The follows petitions for the Almighty's will to be on earth, as it is in heaven. The kingdom will come when Messiah returns in glory. Lastly are personal petitions for forgiveness and for food. The prayer closed with an acclaim for the praise, greatness and glory of our Sovereign. Then followed generosity among friends and our need to be seekers, askers and knockers on doors. Our Father is generous and gives only benefits to His children. Upon curing a deaf mute Jesus is accused of doing it by a demon power Beel-zebul - the Lord of the dung heap. This was equivalent to blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. Jesus told them that if he was casting out diseases by a demonic power then he would be a destroyer of the kingdom of the enemy. No, like the magicians of Egypt at the time of Moses were forced to acknowledge- "this was the finger of God". A parable of the need to fill with good after sweeping out evil followed. True happiness lay in hearing and keeping the Word of God. The sign of Jonah was given them. There is more to this sign than would first seem apparent. 1) Jonah from Gath-Hepher was from Galilee (John 7 verses 52 verse 2) Jonah means 'dove' the evident sign at Jesus' baptism; 3) the overwhelming majority of Jesus' disciples were Galilean as Isaiah 9 predicted; 4) Jonah spent three nights in the belly of hell inside the great fish before being symbolically resurrected. Then we are told to be single minded seekers. Woes upon the Pharisees and the Lawyers follow, because of their hypocrisy. Rather than having the effect of curtailing them they sought even more to provoke our Lord.
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Leviticus 27 speaks of laws against rash voluntary vows. Verses 1-8 tell of the vows of males and females. There was a scale in the price for the penalty to be paid for the breaking of a vow; the value of the penalty was not a reflection, of the worth of the offerer, nor of the capacity for service (that is the strength) of the offerer. Verses 9 to13 covers the vowing of domestic animals - clean and unclean. Since vows were made by owners and not animals penalties were imposed on the offerer. Exchange was only permitted if a superior animal was exchanged for the lesser beast. Any redemption for the substituted animal was allowed provided a penalty, or fine, of an additional one fifth was added. The vowing of unclean animals was not permitted. Verses 14-25 tell about the vowing of fields and houses. In the case of a person seeking the redemption of a house that had been vowed there was a penalty to be paid of one fifth more than the priest's valuation. Vowed land was valued in terms of the number of years until the Jubilee - a higher valuation would be expected for land vowed just after the Jubilee. These rules were put in place since all fields outside the city precincts were restored to the original owners in the Year of Jubilee. Verses 26 to27 tells of the redemption of all firstborns - whether human or animal. Verses 28 to 29 tells us that there could be no redemption for any devoted person, or animal. Verses 30 to 34 speak about tithes, which were holy and could only be redeemed by paying a penalty equal to one fifth of the priest's valuation.
Psalm 140 was written by David. In this song he calls on the LORD to deliver him from evil men. Those who had arrogantly plotted David's downfall were doomed to failure, since the Almighty has hearkened to the humble plea from God's faithful anointed king. Those who had slandered David would, by way of a metaphor, be cast into the pits which they had created for David. Yahweh's help for His servant, David, brought forth praise and thanksgiving for David's deliverance. Our LORD always upholds the cause of those poor and needy children whose trust is in their God; and He will give the kingdom to them.
In Psalm 141 David prays for his Sovereign to heed his voice, like our God delighted in the aroma of the evening Burnt Offering. David asks Yahweh to keep him humble and his lips free from sin and guile. Verse 5 is similar to thought in the Proverbs that says, "faithful are the wounds of a friend". Verses 6-7 speak of the treacheries which were all too common in the nation of Israel. Verse 8 declares the writer's stedfast love for the right and true paths of the LORD. The Psalm concludes with a plea from David to be preserved; and for the wicked to be ensnared in their own nets.
Psalm 142 is another from the pen of David. It is a Maschil ie "an engraving"; a lesson cut deeply for teaching vital lessons. David made to his LORD an impassioned plea for mercy. In the king's extremity when all his associates had seemingly forgotten him David cast himself upon Yahweh's faithfulness and loving kindness; and he found in his God a secure place for refuge. The Psalm finishes in verse 7 with David's confidence in being delivered from the prison of despondency.
Luke 10 says that the Lord Jesus appoints seventy emissaries to spread the gospel message. These men were sent out two by two so as to support each other. Although they carry the message only within the confines of the land it was symbolic of the Gospel being taken to all the nations from Israel (compare Genesis 10 and Deuteronomy 32 verse 8). Once again these ambassadors were to take the minimum of provisions and to rely on faithful help. Any person scorning them would bare their condemnation. Three such Galilean cities are named and their inexcusable behaviour cataloged. The seventy returned to Jesus with triumphant tales. Christ indicates that their reports were a token of the triumph of Christ's kingdom over those of this world (compare with Revelation 11 verse 15). The Lord then reveals that the Father's will can only be understood by those receiving the kingdom message with a child-like trust. Let us take great heed to that lesson. The parable of the Good Samaritan, which is unique in Luke, portrays the perils and pitiful attitudes of those who should have understood their role among God's people. Instead it is the Samaritan, whose care was evident for the man who had fallen among thieves. Jesus is the Samaritan of the parable and he will recompense those who have taken care of the Father's people. The oil and wine was the healing balm of the Gospel message. The chapter concludes with a disagreement between Martha and Mary about what is most necessary. Both the roles of these two sisters are essential, but the most important of all is to sit at our Lord's feet and to learn from Jesus.
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Leviticus 26 tells of the Almighty,S vengeance on those who disregard their obligations to His covenant. Verses 1-2 reinforce what had been said concerning idols; and the need to keep the LORD uppermost in the Israelites' minds by revering and keeping His Sabbaths.
In verses 3 to13 God's response to their faithfulness included many promises and blessings. Blessings of fruitfulness and peace. Blessings of protection and of Yahweh dwelling among His children. Verses 13 to 39 tell of their Sovereign's demand for faithfulness; and the promise that Israel's disobedience would bring punishments. These chastisements would include:-
the bringing of plagues on His people; a powerlessness to stand before their enemies; wild beasts sent into the Land; the nation being consumed by famine. This section concludes by an appeal to faithfully following Yahweh's covenant. For whether, or not, Israel obeyed the covenant the Land would continue with (or without) the nation. In peril if they considered their ways and prayed contritely to their Maker He would, because of His own faithfulness to the covenant made to their forefather, Abraham, restore them to the Promised Land.
Psalm 137 was a song about the lack of motivation to sing the songs of Zion, whilst Yahweh's people were exiles in Babylon. The other peoples, who dwelt by the river Chebar, demanded that the Jewish exiles sing to them from the songs of Zion. The Jewish exiles refused, since they were sad and yearned for their homeland. The Psalm concludes by providing assurance to the Exiles that the LORD would bring vengeance upon Israel's foes.
Psalm 138 is a Psalm of thanksgiving from the pen of David. The writer tells how he would extol his God before the rulers of Israel. He spoke of his bowing in reverence before the LORD in the house of worship. David reminds the hearers of the loving kindness and faithfulness of his Sovereign; which were evident in God's deliverance of David in response to his plea. The Psalmist anticipates Messiah's reign when all the kings of the earth will acknowledge and worship Zion's king; when the might of Yahweh's right hand would be exercised in the establishment of the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ, whose throne would be upheld by the loving kindness and the faithfulness of his Father.
Psalm 139 is another wonderful Psalm from David. The Psalm principally revolves around 3 themes the incomparable power of the Almighty; about the wisdom and care of the Creator for His children; and, lastly that when we to a small degree can comprehend those two things the Almighty Sovereign of the universe seeks to have a loving relationship with His reverential children. Verses 1 to 6 speak of our Maker's inate capacity for instantaneous universal understanding. This is called Yahweh's Omniscience. Verses 7 to12 describe the LORD's ability to be everywhere present, by His Spirit power, at the same time. This characteristic is referred to as God's Omnipresence. Verses 13 to 18 describe our Sovereign's might, as evidenced in the production of the embryo and its growth into a living breathing sentient person - in particular the words in this section of the Psalm apply to our Lord Jesus Christ (Messiah). In verses 17 to18 David says that the contemplation of these matters overwhelms him. Finally, in verses 19-24 David makes a plea to his Almighty Maker to deal with his arrogant and evil foes; and for His God to search his thoughts and know that his love for the LORD is vast and his endeavours to walk in righteousness are completely sincere. And because of this David prays for his Sovereign "to lead him in the way everlasting". May these thoughts and that prayer and determination be ours also.
Luke 9 tells of the commissioning of the twelve, who were sent to Israel's lost sheep. They were seemingly unprepared, but took the Gospel forth in faith - note the similarity in the opening verses of chapters 8 and 9 (8 verse 1 compare 9 verses 1 and 2). We then read of Herod's perplexity on hearing the report of Jesus' ministry. The record of the feeding of the 5,000 was followed by the record of Jesus' prayer in solitude. This prayer was followed by Peter's confession that "Jesus was the Christ of God". Jesus foretold of his sufferings, crucifixion and resurrection. The disciple is exhorted that it is imperative to take up one's cross and follow Christ. The remaining segments of the chapter centre on Elijah. The transfiguration is recorded in verses 28-36 - where Moses, representing the Law; and Elijah the Prophets - are seen with our Lord in glory. The Father clearly showed that the surpassing, excellent glory was with His Son alone. A paralytic boy was cured by the Lord, when the 9 Apostles who had not gone into the Mount were frustrated by their inability to do so. Once more Jesus tells them of his coming suffering; which, yet again, fell on deaf ears; as they were preoccupied by self importance. Incredibly those who saw the transfiguration should have seen that their Lord alone was great and they must be the servants of the coming King. The twelve forbad a man, not of their company, from healing, and they earned the Lord's rebuke - they who are not against us must be for us, said Jesus. Jesus was not received by a Samaritan village as he was clearly intent on going to Jerusalem. James and John, rightly given the appellate "sons of thunder", sought to bring fire upon them as Elijah had done. Jesus rebuked them alluding to the saving mission of the 'whisper of a voice' - found in Elisha. The chapter concluded with three would be disciples: 1) one man who wanted to make discipleship a second priority; 2) the second man would follow when family responsibility was passed - this would always be a problem and left with those people not willing to embrace the challenges of following Christ;
3) the third man had business matters which required attention - Jesus told that man to learn the lesson of Elisha's call (see1 Kings 19 verses 19 to 21).
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Leviticus 24 outlines what was required for the furniture within the Tabernacle's Holy Place - the pure olive oil for the seven branched Lampstand; the Shewbread, or more literally in the Hebrew "the bread of the faces" to be placed on the Table of Shewbread, as an offering to God from the faithful labours of His covenant people. They symbolically gazed on the veil where the 4 cherubic faces were embroidered; then followed a case instructing the nation in what to do with blasphemy; verses 17to 21 repeat matters relating to murder and personal injury. Important regulations about proper living among neighbours is repeated for reinforcement. Verses 1-4 tell us that the wicks were to be trimmed morning and evening, so that the pure light shone brightly illuminating an otherwise dark place
(Psalm 119:105). The lamps were trimmed at the same time that the incense oil was being attended to - the Word of the LORD and prayer must accompany each other. If we neglect our Sovereign's guidance our prayers are powerless (Proverbs 28:9; Revelation 8:3-4). Verses 5-9 tell us of the unleavened shewbread made from the finest wheaten flour and beaten exceedingly small. Care and diligence must be evident in our faithful labours for the Father. There were 12 cakes - one for each of Israel's tribes - arranged into two piles of six. They were anointed with the same oil as was to be used for the Lampstand - again showing of the connection between these two pieces of furniture which were at the heart of acceptable worship of Yahweh. Verses 10-16 give instructions for dealing with blasphemy - the entirely opposite principle to what was being taught through the worship involving the Lampstand and the Table of Shewbread. Our Creator is not to be worshipped in a casual, or flippant, way. Any who fail to approach Him reverently and as He has directed will be eradicated.
Psalm 131 is a song of ascension from the pen of David. He explains that he has calmed and quieted his life through his confidence and his trust in his Sovereign God. It teaches us that despite the turmoils of life and the calamities which come upon us that the Almighty is in control. Those whose hope is in Yahweh will never be disappointed.
Psalm 132 is another glorious Psalm of David's. It outlines the journeys of the ark of the covenant over a time span of close to two centuries. It began in the days of Eli when the Philistines captured the ark; through its sojourns back among the LORD's people; to the disastrous attempt to bring the ark to Jerusalem on a new cart - this resulted in the death of Uzzah. David was devastated and could not rest until he understands from the Holy Scriptures the manner of bringing the ark to Zion. The
2nd of Samuel 6 and
1 Chronicles 15 and 16 describe these events. David enacted a parable in
2nd Samuel 6 and 7 which spoke of Messiah's kingdom.
Psalm 132 explains David's understanding of the parable that illustrated the truths of his greater son's kingdom - the Messiah - the anointed Son of the Father - our Lord Jesus Christ. Read the Psalm slowly and carefully and revel in the prospects it reveals.
Psalm 133 is a Psalm that speaks of the profuse anointing of Aaron the High Priest. It tells of the head and body United in joyous fellowship by the oil that flowed down the garments of the High Priest. This is likened to the refreshing snows from Mount Hermon bringing blessings to the people of the Promised Land.
Psalm 134 is the last of the 15 songs of ascent in which the faithful worshippers are called upon to ascribe greatness to their Omnipotent Creator and to come before Him with thankfulness. How fitting that this section of the Psalms should finish with an ascribing of power to the Maker of heaven and earth.
Luke 7 begins with the healing of a faithful and loved Roman Centurion's servant. The Centurion had built a synagogue for the Jewish people - most likely in Capernaum. As a man in command and also under the authority of Rome he saw our Lord Jesus Christ as the emissary of God. Jesus announces that the Centurion's faith exceeded any faith that could be found in Israel. This man was truly the seed, and heir of Abraham's kingdom (Romans 4:13; Genesis 12:3). In the town of Nain Jesus raises a widow's son. Messengers are sent to our Lord Jesus Christ from a disconsolate John the Baptist, who was languishing in Herod's prison at Machaerus. Jesus immediately performs many miracles before John's messengers and refers them to Isaiah 61. The Lord then remonstrates with the crowd on their fickleness - Jesus and John are both the Father's wise children. Not a greater man among had ever been born of a woman than John, except the Messiah himself. The chapter next says that a sinful woman, who comes into the house of Simon the Pharisee, anoints Jesus' feet in love - and because of her great love she is forgiven greatly for her sins. Simon and those with him are instructed by Christ on the basis of divine forgiveness ie love. Let us pause, ponder and learn this.
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