Today’s reading: Gen 49:1–50:26, Heb 12:1–13:25, Eccles 12:9–14

Today’s theme: Lay aside the weight

We are called to lay aside the burdensome weight of sin and the unnecessary things which may not be sin, but slow and weigh us down, so that we can freely run the race set before us. Jesus, the promised Messiah from the tribe of Judah, has called us to peace and holiness, so let us run with that in mind.

Genesis 49:1–50:26

Judah, the line of Messiah

“Judah, your brothers shall praise you; your hand shall be on the neck of your enemies; your father’s sons shall bow down before you. Judah is a lion’s cub; from the prey, my son, you have gone up. He stooped down; he crouched as a lion and as a lioness; who dares rouse him? The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until tribute comes to him; and to him shall be the obedience of the peoples. Binding his … Genesis 49:8–12 (ESV)

Here is a great Davidic and Messianic prophecy and clear evidence of God’s election in spite of Judah’s mistakes. We cannot ignore that Judah put his life on the line for Benjamin.

Hebrews 12:1–13:25

Lay aside the weight

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, Hebrews 12:1 (ESV)

These are different for everyone, Lord help each of us to identify these so that we can lay them aside. We do not want to run the race weighed down with shortcomings.

Work for peace

Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord. Hebrews 12:14 (ESV)

Strive and work hard for peace and holiness.

Most of the above post is a copy of the original notes from the same date in 2014

Additional resources

Prayer points from Pastor Dennis on Hebrews 12

Desiring God on Hebrews 12

Today’s reading: Gen 47:1–48:22, Heb 11:1–40, Eccles 12:1–8

Today’s theme: Faith in the Creator

Today we read the famous chapter on faith. One of the most important exaltations that we find in this passage, is the call for us to believe that God is truly God and that He created the world. In our current day, the person and existence of God is under attack and no area has received more focused, strategic, concentrated attack, as the truth that God created the earth in 6 days, resting on the 7th day, just over six thousand years ago.

We must affirm and defend this truth and as Ecclesiastes tell us, we should affirm this in and to our youth, that God is the Creator of the universe, the one in whom we put our faith and trust.

Genesis 47:1–48:22

Your story while walking with God

And he blessed Joseph and said, “The God before whom my fathers Abraham and Isaac walked, the God who has been my shepherd all my life long to this day, the angel who has redeemed me from all evil, bless the boys; and in them let my name be carried on, and the name of my fathers Abraham and Isaac; and let them grow into a multitude in the midst of the earth.” Genesis 48:15–16 (ESV)

Israel (Jacob) had a testimony about who God was, based on his own walk with the Lord and that of his ancestors. Reflect on your own testimony today.

The freedom of God

But his father refused and said, “I know, my son, I know. He also shall become a people, and he also shall be great. Nevertheless, his younger brother shall be greater than he, and his offspring shall become a multitude of nations.” Genesis 48:19 (ESV)

God’s freedom and purpose in choosing who He wills.

Hebrews 11:1–40

Faith, a working definition

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1 (ESV)

This is the working definition of biblical faith.

Faith in God as Creator

By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible. Hebrews 11:3 (ESV)

This statement actually stands up to scientific scrutiny, it also makes clear that being a six day creationist is a matter of faith in God, because we were not there.

Affirm in your heart that God is God

And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. Hebrews 11:6 (ESV)

One of the core principles of Christianity is that we must believe God exists, this seems obvious but in our atheistic and relativistic culture, this core must be affirmed in the hearts and minds of believers…Lest we enter into idolatry or apathy. Having faith in God and actively using that faith, brings God pleasure and makes our joy full.

The city of heaven

For he was looking forward to the city that has foundations, whose designer and builder is God. Hebrews 11:10 (ESV)

It is wonderful that we can look forward to a very tangible heaven.

Live as pilgrims

But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city. Hebrews 11:16 (ESV)

May our faith make us like pilgrims, giving us a strong desire for our own country in heaven, let us make all our investments and set our affection there.

Ecclesiastes 12:1–8

Serve God in your youth

Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near of which you will say, “I have no pleasure in them”; Ecclesiastes 12:1 (ESV)

It is so important to reach young people with the good news and to serve God while young.

Most of the above post is a copy of the original notes from the same date in 2014

Additional resources

Answers in Genesis on the book of Genesis ( a great 5 minute video as well as additional related content)

WWMF Youth Conference 2014

Today’s reading: Gen 45:1–46:34, Heb 10:1–39, Eccles 11:5–10

Today’s theme: Permanent atonement

Today we learn about the better and definite atonement we have in Christ. The atonement provided by bulls and goats served only as a temporary covering. However the atonement of Christ is eternal, a complete and finished work that cannot be added to or taken away from.

What Christ has accomplished for us is sure, steadfast and rooted in His own immutability and faithfulness. We can have confidence in the eternal security that the atonement of Christ provides for all His elect who put their trust in Him.

Genesis 45:1–46:34

God is in control

So it was not you who sent me here, but God. He has made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house and ruler over all the land of Egypt. Genesis 45:8 (ESV)

Joseph knew that God was really in control. God is sovereign.

God’s promise to Jacob

Then he said, “I am God, the God of your father. Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for there I will make you into a great nation. I myself will go down with you to Egypt, and I will also bring you up again, and Joseph’s hand shall close your eyes.” Genesis 46:3–4 (ESV)

God makes a powerful, yet very personal, promise to Jacob and tells him that he has nothing to fear. God brought all of this to pass.

Hebrews 10:1–39

Temporary atonement

For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. Hebrews 10:4 (ESV)

It was impossible for animal sacrifices to take away sin, they provided only temporary atonement and served as a reminder of our great need.

Permanent atonement

But when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God, waiting from that time until his enemies should be made a footstool for his feet. Hebrews 10:12–13 (ESV)

The atonement of Christ is a finished work, eternal in its effect and universal in its reach, although limited in its application to the elect who put their trust in Him.

Confidence in Christ

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. Hebrews 10:23 (ESV)

Our perseverance and sanctification find their root in Jesus’ person and work. The sureness, confidence and assurance we are guaranteed is in, through and by Him.

The importance of attending church

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. Hebrews 10:24–25 (ESV)

Church and fellowship is so important for each of us.

Most of the above post is a copy of the original notes from the same date in 2014

Additional resources

Desiring God on Hebrews 10

Ligonier Devotions from Hebrews 10

Today’s reading: Gen 44:1–34, Heb 8:1–9:28, Eccles 11:1–4

Today’s theme: A better covenant

Today we continue to learn the key message of Hebrews, that Jesus is better. We focus on the better covenant enacted on better promises, we see that the tabernacle of the old covenant was a shadow pointing forward to Christ. This new reformed covenant is built upon the shed blood of Christ which purifies our conscience before God, so that we can serve Him and walk in the forgiveness, the once for all time sacrifice, has purchased for us.

Genesis 44:1–34

Judah, the line of Jesus

Now therefore, please let your servant remain instead of the boy as a servant to my lord, and let the boy go back with his brothers. Genesis 44:33 (ESV)

Judah’s willingness to sacrifice himself on behalf of his brother and for the love of his father, points forward to Jesus, “The Lion of the tribe of Judah”

Hebrews 8:1–9:28

The Tabernacle points to Jesus

They serve a copy and shadow of the heavenly things. For when Moses was about to erect the tent, he was instructed by God, saying, “See that you make everything according to the pattern that was shown you on the mountain.” Hebrews 8:5 (ESV)

This is true of much of the Old Testament, especially around the Tabernacle and Temple (see the additional resource section).

A better covenant

But as it is, Christ has obtained a ministry that is as much more excellent than the old as the covenant he mediates is better, since it is enacted on better promises. Hebrews 8:6 (ESV)

We thank God for the new, better covenant. Jesus is the mediator of the new covenant and it is better because it is founded on the wonderful promises of grace (salvation, security, sanctification etc).

The reformed covenant

but deal only with food and drink and various washings, regulations for the body imposed until the time of reformation. Hebrews 9:10 (ESV)

Jesus was the first great reformer, the New Testament is in a sense, a reformed old covenant.

Once for all

he entered once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption. Hebrews 9:12 (ESV)

Hallelujah, here is the great evidence of God’s love for us and the eternal security we have in the atonement of Jesus Christ, through His blood.

The blood of Jesus purifies the conscience

how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God. Hebrews 9:14 (ESV)

An important part of the Gospel message; Jesus purifies our conscience so that we are no longer under self condemnation and we can discern more clearly, the Father’s will.

Jesus, the mediator

Therefore he is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, since a death has occurred that redeems them from the transgressions committed under the first covenant. Hebrews 9:15 (ESV)

Jesus is the great mediator of the new covenant, bringing agreement and reconciliation between God and man, with Himself as the guarantee of the eternal promises.

Jesus shed blood

Indeed, under the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins. Hebrews 9:22 (ESV)

This is why Jesus died for us and shed His precious blood – to forgive us of our sins.

Jesus, offered once

Nor was it to offer himself repeatedly, as the high priest enters the holy places every year with blood not his own, Hebrews 9:25 (ESV)

This is where Roman Catholics get it wrong, they teach that at every Eucharist, Jesus is offered all over again.

Ecclesiastes 11:1–4

Don’t be paralysed by fear

He who observes the wind will not sow, and he who regards the clouds will not reap. Ecclesiastes 11:4 (ESV)

We must not be paralysed by the fear of “what if”, or become impotent while waiting for the “perfect time”, we must launch out in faith.

Most of the above post is a copy of the original notes from the same date in 2014

Additional resources

If you are interested in studying the way the tabernacle points to Jesus in more detail there is a book called Christ and the Desert Tabernacle (this is not free) available via Logos or Amazon

Desiring God on Hebrews 8 and Hebrews 9

Today’s reading: Gen 42:29–43:34, Heb 5:11–7:28, Eccles 10:10–20

Today’s theme: A better hope

One of the great themes of the book of Hebrews is that Jesus is better and what He offers is better. He is better than the angels and the old priesthood and He offers a better hope, and guarantees a better covenant, with better promises than its predecessor. With Jesus, everything is better – let’s rejoice in that truth today.

Hebrews 5:11–7:28

Constant practice

But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil. Hebrews 5:14 (ESV)

In the author’s warning against apostasy, we see a rebuke against unwarranted immaturity in understanding the truth of God’s word. We must apply ourselves to studying, thinking about and understanding God’s word for our own growth, and so that we can effectively share with others.

There is only one Gospel

For it is impossible, in the case of those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, and have shared in the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age to come, and then have fallen away, to restore them again to repentance, since they are crucifying once again the Son of God to their own harm and holding him up to contempt. Hebrews 6:4–6 (ESV)

The warning against apostasy is a serious one, those who are around the things of God and know the truth of the Gospel but consciously reject the truth, leave themselves in a position that means they cannot be restored (or saved in the first place), because there is only one way and they have rejected that way…there is no Gospel version 2, there is only 1.

Believers vs Church Attendees

Though we speak in this way, yet in your case, beloved, we feel sure of better things—things that belong to salvation. Hebrews 6:9 (ESV)

This distinguishes the true believers (who have salvation) from the group of church goers and false converts, mentioned above.

Eternal security

so that by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us. Hebrews 6:18 (ESV)

We have assurance and security in our salvation because of who God is.

A better hope

(for the law made nothing perfect); but on the other hand, a better hope is introduced, through which we draw near to God. Hebrews 7:19 (ESV)

We have a far better and sure hope in Jesus as our eternal High Priest, unlike the temporary priesthood of men.

A guarantee from Jesus

This makes Jesus the guarantor of a better covenant. Hebrews 7:22 (ESV)

Our eternal security is very secure because the one giving the guarantee is Jesus himself. He is the guarantor of a better covenant than the old covenant.

Christ’s unique priesthood

For it was indeed fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens. Hebrews 7:26 (ESV)

Five distinctive attributes of Christ’s priesthood: He is; 1). holy, 2). innocent, 3).unstained, 4). separated from sinners, and 5). exalted above the heavens.

Most of the above post is a copy of the original notes from the same date in 2014

Additional resources

Desiring God on Hebrews 6

Today’s reading: Gen 41:38–42:28, Heb 3:1–5:10, Eccles 10:1–9

Today’s theme: Jesus our High Priest

Today we learn that Jesus is better than the Priests and High Priests of man. Jesus is our High Priest; He makes intercession for us and because He became a man, He can sympathise with us, yet because He is God, He ever lives to intercede for us.

One of the greatest things we learn about is the exchange of obedience. Jesus’ obedient life has become the source of eternal life to all who will obey the word of Jesus, found in the gospel. The perfect life of Jesus becomes ours when we are born again.

Hebrews 3:1–5:10

Persevere together

But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. For we have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original confidence firm to the end. Hebrews 3:13–14 (ESV)

Our perseverance as disciples of Jesus Christ is not a solitary experience, we are called to encourage one another so that we are not deceived and hardened by sin. We need each other.

Mix the word with active faith

For good news came to us just as to them, but the message they heard did not benefit them, because they were not united by faith with those who listened. Hebrews 4:2 (ESV)

We must always read and listen to God’s word with an attitude that says “yes, I really believe this and will do something about it”. We must have faith.

Our goal

Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience. Hebrews 4:11 (ESV)

We have a goal, something to strive and press toward, something to work for – this is to enter into God’s rest and to hear Him say well done.

God’s active and powerful word

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 (ESV)

God’s word is alive and active, His word is not impotent but is powerful. We can trust and have confidence in God’s word to transform us, as much as we can in God himself, because He is true, He backs up and fulfils His word.

Jesus, our High Priest

Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16 (ESV)

Because we have a High Priest and He is one who understands and can sympathise with us, we can boldly come before the throne of grace.

Saved by the obedient life of Jesus

And being made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him, Hebrews 5:9 (ESV)

Because of Jesus’ obedient life, He became the source of salvation for all who would obey the gospel. We are saved through Jesus’ life, death and resurrection.

Most of the above post is a copy of the original notes from the same date in 2014

Additional resources

He Is the Source of Eternal Salvation for All Who Obey Him

Desiring God on Hebrews 3 and Hebrews 4

Today’s reading: Gen 40:1–41:37, Heb 1:1–2:18, Eccles 9:11–18

Today’s theme: Jesus, greater than Angels

Some cults, like the Watchtower Society (Jehovah Witness), claim that Jesus is merely a great angel, this is heresy because Hebrews chapter one, in line with the rest of God’s word, makes clear that Jesus is above all angels, greater than them and created them. He is very God of very God(1), the Son of God, the second member of the Trinity. The ministry of angels are important, they follow the commands of Jesus who is the Lord of Heaven’s armies.

Genesis 40:1–41:37

Interpretation comes from God

They said to him, “We have had dreams, and there is no one to interpret them.” And Joseph said to them, “Do not interpretations belong to God? Please tell them to me.” Genesis 40:8 (ESV)

There is no book or rule regarding the interpretation of dreams. Joseph knew interpretation comes from God alone.

Sovereign over nature

And the doubling of Pharaoh’s dream means that the thing is fixed by God, and God will shortly bring it about. Now therefore let Pharaoh select a discerning and wise man, and set him over the land of Egypt. Genesis 41:32–33 (ESV)

God is Sovereign over the elements and can use them to steer nations and people to His purpose.

Hebrews 1:1–2:18

Jesus, greater than Angels

Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation? Hebrews 1:14 (ESV)

This chapter makes clear that Jesus is not an angel and is greater than the angels. It also tells us what angels really are.

Most of the above post is a copy of the original notes from the same date in 2014

Additional resources

CARM on Jehovah Witnesses

Jesus Christ: Infinitely Superior to Angels

(1) Where I mention very God of very God, I am quoting a famous line from the Nicene Creed which you can read in it’s entity below:

I believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible.

And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, begotten of the Father before all worlds; God of God, Light of Light, very God of very God; begotten, not made, being of one substance with the Father, by whom all things were made.

Who, for us men and for our salvation, came down from heaven and was Incarnate by the Holy Spirit of the virgin Mary, and was made man; and was crucified also for us under Pontius Pilate; He suffered and was buried; and the third day He rose again, according to the Scriptures; and ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of the Father; and He shall come again, with glory, to judge the living and the dead; whose kingdom shall have no end.

And I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord and Giver of life; who proceedeth from the Father and the Son; who with the Father and the Son together is worshipped and glorified; who spake by the prophets.

And I believe one holy catholic (or universal) and apostolic Church. I acknowledge one baptism for the remission of sins; and I look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come.

Hyde, D. R. (2010). Welcome to a Reformed Church: A Guide for Pilgrims (pp. 5–6)

Today’s reading: Gen 38:1–39:23, Matt 27:32–28:20, Eccles 9:7–10

Today’s theme: Jesus is risen

There are a lot of great lessons in today’s reading. One of the most important is the FACT that Jesus is risen from the dead. He literally died for us and then actually had a bodily resurrection. We fulfil the great commission to make disciples of a living, powerful and victorious risen King Jesus.

Genesis 38:1–39:23

Breakthrough

But as he drew back his hand, behold, his brother came out. And she said, “What a breach you have made for yourself!” Therefore his name was called Perez. Afterward his brother came out with the scarlet thread on his hand, and his name was called Zerah. Genesis 38:29–30 (ESV)

His name literally means breakthrough. From Him would come David and later Jesus. This shows that God can take the most broken situations and use them for his glory and purpose.

Sin offends God

He is not greater in this house than I am, nor has he kept back anything from me except you, because you are his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?” Genesis 39:9 (ESV)

Joseph had the correct understanding of the nature of sin, he knew that although Potiphar had been good to him it was only because of God. The sin would be towards God and offend God more than it was towards man. When we sin, people may be hurt as a result but that is secondary to the offence we cause towards God.

Loyal love

But the LORD was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison. Genesis 39:21 (ESV)

God’s love for Joseph is constant, steadfast and loyal. This should comfort us and show us how to love.

Matthew 27:32–28:20

Jesus Son of God

and saying, “You who would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, save yourself! If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross.” Matthew 27:40 (ESV)

Further evidence that Jesus clearly claimed to be the Son of God! If He did not claim this then what were his accusers talking about?

Jesus actually died

And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice and yielded up his spirit. Matthew 27:50 (ESV)

Jesus died on the cross for our sin (He did not faint like some say). Thank you Jesus.

Jesus rose on Sunday

Now after the Sabbath, toward the dawn of the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. Matthew 28:1 (ESV)

This is why we see the earliest Christians meeting on a Sunday instead of a Saturday. It is because Jesus rose on the first day of the week.

Jesus is risen

He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Matthew 28:6 (ESV)

Hallelujah!!, Jesus is risen from the dead. Fact!!

Jesus receives worship

And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. Matthew 28:9 (ESV)

Jesus receives their worship because He is not an Angel or a created being, He is the Son of God

Make disciples

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Matthew 28:19 (ESV)

The great commission given to us by Jesus was not to make converts but to take the time and effort to make disciples. A disciple needs to be taught the word of God and apply that word to their lives in obedience.

Most of the above post is a copy of the original notes from the same date in 2014

Additional resources

Desiring God on the Resurrection of Christ

TableTalk on the Resurrection of Christ

Today’s reading: Gen 37:1–36, Matt 26:57–27:31, Eccles 9:1–6

Today’s theme: The suffering of Christ

Take time today to stop and consider the horrific suffering Jesus endured for us. Jesus affirms Himself as Messiah, the Son of Man, the Son of God (so equal with God) and the King. Despite all of this He suffered terribly for our salvation. Take time to think about this today and thank God for His great love for us.

Genesis 37:1–36

A captivating true story

Meanwhile the Midianites had sold him in Egypt to Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, the captain of the guard. Genesis 37:36 (ESV)

How can anyone say the Bible is boring? The true stories it records are relayed in such a captivating way and trump the false stories from Hollywood as the Bible’s accounts hold important lessons of eternal significance.

If you read through the chapter quickly… read it again… this time enjoy the story… see the providence and plan of God working itself out.

Matthew 26:57–27:31

The Son of Man

Jesus said to him, “You have said so. But I tell you, from now on you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds of heaven.” Matthew 26:64 (ESV)

This is a bold declaration by Jesus that He is the Son of God. The start of the answer is only cautious because the contemporary understanding of the Messiah was flawed. The second part of the answer is a forceful and affirmative declaration, warning and identification with the prophesies of Daniel and the Psalms. These show that Jesus is the “Son of Man” (The Messiah) who the council would later know as sovereign king and judge.

Jesus, Son of God

Then the high priest tore his robes and said, “He has uttered blasphemy. What further witnesses do we need? You have now heard his blasphemy. Matthew 26:65 (ESV)

Further confirmation that to the Sanhedrin, Jesus had just boldly declared Himself to be the Son of God. This would make Him equal to God, which in their eyes was blasphemy

Jesus suffered for us

Then they spit in his face and struck him. And some slapped him, saying, “Prophesy to us, you Christ! Who is it that struck you?” Matthew 26:67–68 (ESV)

Jesus endured this suffering and shame because of His love, primarily for the Father but also His love for us. Stop and think about this and be thankful.

The lies and bondage of legalism

But the chief priests, taking the pieces of silver, said, “It is not lawful to put them into the treasury, since it is blood money.” Matthew 27:6 (ESV)

The sin of legalism had them so bound that while they were scheming to kill Jesus and had just held an illegal trial, they were still concerned with this rule.

Jesus, The King

Now Jesus stood before the governor, and the governor asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus said, “You have said so.” But when he was accused by the chief priests and elders, he gave no answer. Matthew 27:11–12 (ESV)

Jesus’ answer to Pilate again confirms that He is indeed the prophesied king of the Jews but not in the way that Pilate would imagine.

Don’t be a coward

So when Pilate saw that he was gaining nothing, but rather that a riot was beginning, he took water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, “I am innocent of this man’s blood; see to it yourselves.” Matthew 27:24 (ESV)

Pilate displayed complete cowardice in trying to please the people. We should not be anything like that.

Consider the scourging of Jesus

Then he released for them Barabbas, and having scourged Jesus, delivered him to be crucified.Matthew 27:26 (ESV)

The scourging of Jesus was one of the cruellest punishments He endured. The following is a note on it from the ESV Study Bible. “Roman flogging was a horrifically cruel punishment. Those condemned to it were tied to a post and beaten with a leather whip that was interwoven with pieces of bone and metal, which tore through skin and tissue, often exposing bones and intestines. In many cases, the flogging itself was fatal. The Romans scourged Jesus nearly to death so that he would not remain alive on the cross after sundown.” Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (p. 1885). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

Ecclesiastes 9:1–6

An unavoidable appointment

It is the same for all, since the same event happens to the righteous and the wicked, to the good and the evil, to the clean and the unclean, to him who sacrifices and him who does not sacrifice. As the good one is, so is the sinner, and he who swears is as he who shuns an oath. Ecclesiastes 9:2 (ESV)

One appointment we all have to keep… death! Thank God for Jesus’ resurrection which gives us eternal life.

Most of the above post is a copy of the original notes from the same date in 2014

Additional resources

Medical Aspects of the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ

Today’s reading: Gen 35:16–36:43, Matt 26:14–56, Eccles 8:10–17

Today’s theme: Lay down your will

A simple but important lesson we learn today is that we should be willing to lay our will down like Jesus did. We should give our lives sacrificially to God’s purpose and for God’s glory according to God’s will and wisdom.

Matthew 26:14–56

Communion

for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. Matthew 26:28 (ESV)

This is what we remember when we have communion. Jesus’ blood was poured out to save the “many” that would put their trust in Him, so our sin could be forgiven. The meal they were eating was the Passover which is fulfilled in Jesus as the true Passover Lamb of the New Covenant.

Don’t have false confidence

Peter said to him, “Even if I must die with you, I will not deny you!” And all the disciples said the same. Matthew 26:35 (ESV)

We must avoid false confidence in the flesh.

Lay down your will

And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.” Matthew 26:39 (ESV)

This is where Jesus in a sense won the battle for our souls, by laying down His own will. His deepest desire was to do the will of the Father. We should be the same.

Ecclesiastes 8:10–17

It will be well

Though a sinner does evil a hundred times and prolongs his life, yet I know that it will be well with those who fear God, because they fear before him. Ecclesiastes 8:12 (ESV)

This is very encouraging!

Most of the above post is a copy of the original notes from the same date in 2014

Additional resources

Tabletalk on Matthew 26

DC on Matthew 26