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

Today’s reading: Gen 34:1–35:15, Matt 25:14–26:13, Eccles 8:1–9

Today’s theme: Faithful stewardship

We have been called to faithful stewardship with the time, resources, talents and life God has given us. We should actively use all we have in the joyful service of our king and flee the allure of selfish indifference and inaction. We can rejoice in the fact that our reward was prepared for us from the foundation of the world so let’s be encouraged to be faithful to and for God.

Genesis 34:1–35:15

The sin of rape

And when Shechem the son of Hamor the Hivite, the prince of the land, saw her, he seized her and lay with her and humiliated her. Genesis 34:2 (ESV)

In today’s language this (humiliated her) would be called rape. A man forcing himself sexually on a woman is always a sin in every possible context.

Be careful about agreements

Will not their livestock, their property and all their beasts be ours? Only let us agree with them, and they will dwell with us.” Genesis 34:23 (ESV)

Be careful who you enter into agreement with. You are tying yourself to the person and often it is to their benefit and not yours.

Terror from God

And as they journeyed, a terror from God fell upon the cities that were around them, so that they did not pursue the sons of Jacob. And Jacob came to Luz (that is, Bethel), which is in the land of Canaan, he and all the people who were with him, Genesis 35:5–6 (ESV)

As we purify ourselves for His service and move forward in faith, God will deal with our adversaries and those around us.

God’s self disclosure

And God said to him, “I am God Almighty: be fruitful and multiply. A nation and a company of nations shall come from you, and kings shall come from your own body. Genesis 35:11 (ESV)

God reaffirms and reminds Jacob of his promises (concerning the people and the land) on the basis of His self revelation as God Almighty / El Shaddai (the one able to bring His promises to pass because he has all might). One of the major purposes and themes of the Bible is God’s revelation or self disclosure to man.

Matthew 25:14–26:13

Faithful stewardship

His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’ Matthew 25:21 (ESV)

We are called to faithful stewardship of the opportunities and abilities given to us by God.

Scholars say one talent was so much money that an average worker would take 19 years to earn it. This possibly points to the value we should put on our time, energy, resources and abilities.

Like the song we should serve Him with everything. It is encouraging to see the account of the reward that the Lord will give to the faithful slaves (slaves were often like family, more than just a hired servant, nothing like the slavery of modern times). This is a more joyful responsibility in The Kingdom. We will not be floating around heaven playing harps, we will have joy filled work to do for the King.

Flee lazy inaction

But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed? Matthew 25:26 (ESV)

The climax of this parable is with the last slave, the wicked, slothful and lazy one. Although the parable has encouraged us in the positive sense to invest our lives for the sake of the King and His Kingdom, the main point is to warn us against lazy inaction, fearful human reasoning and indifference.

Let’s not be lazy, we need to wake up and be alert while actively, deliberately and violently serving the King with everything (the 1st and greatest commandment).

God’s plan for His sheep

Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. Matthew 25:34 (ESV)

God’s pre-ordained plan for the sheep (his elect) is so sure that it was prepared from the creation of the world. This should encourage us to press on to obtain the sure prize laid up for us through “living out” our lives as disciples.

The least of these

Then he will answer them, saying, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.’ Matthew 25:45 (ESV)

The way we treat fellow believers, the Jewish people, the poor etc. reveals the truth of who we are in our hearts and points to our relationship (or lack of it) with the Lord.

Extravagant worship

But Jesus, aware of this, said to them, “Why do you trouble the woman? For she has done a beautiful thing to me. Matthew 26:10 (ESV)

This extravagant worship and sacrifice for Jesus should characterise all believers and should trump any social outreach we are a part of. The 1st command over and above the 2nd. This is one of the reasons her act is remembered in the Gospel accounts as Jesus prophesied.

Ecclesiastes 8:1–9

Wickedness will not deliver

No man has power to retain the spirit, or power over the day of death. There is no discharge from war, nor will wickedness deliver those who are given to it. Ecclesiastes 8:8 (ESV)

A sober reminder and a good point for evangelism.

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

Additional resources

Stand (book)

Today’s reading: Gen 32:1–33:20, Matt 24:29–25:13, Eccles 7:22–29

Today’s theme: Be prepared

In our reading today, Jesus teaches us that we need to live ready for His return or call. We are called to always be prepared, and this preparedness cannot be taken from someone else. Each of us is responsible for our own state of preparedness before God. In practical terms we each need to seek God in His Word, prayer, fellowship etc

Genesis 32:1–33:20

Humble faith

But you said, ‘I will surely do you good, and make your offspring as the sand of the sea, which cannot be numbered for multitude.’ ” Genesis 32:12 (ESV)

Jacob is afraid and so comes to God in humble prayer. He brings God’s promise to him before God in prayer showing that he had faith in the promise and Gods ability to fulfil the promise. His faith however was not perfect as he later sends gifts etc to his brother in fear.

Wrestle with God

And Jacob was left alone. And a man wrestled with him until the breaking of the day. When the man saw that he did not prevail against Jacob, he touched his hip socket, and Jacob’s hip was put out of joint as he wrestled with him. Genesis 32:24–25 (ESV)

Jacob wrestled with the pre-incarnate Christ. This is called a theophany, when God would appear as a man in the Old Testament. This is not just symbolic, it actually happened, but it does point us to the truth that we too need to persevere and wrestle as it were with God in prayer.

Israel: Strive and persevere

Then he said, “Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel, for you have striven with God and with men, and have prevailed.” Genesis 32:28 (ESV)

This is the origin of the name Israel, God blessed Jacob with this new name and it becomes the name of the nation. It basically means “to strive and persevere” which has been the character of the nation throughout the ages. We should have the same nature as Israel, to fight and persevere.

Matthew 24:29–25:13

The whole world will know

Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And he will send out his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other. Matthew 24:30–31 (ESV)

It is clear that the whole world will know and mourn at the Kings’ return. This is an answer to all Adventist movements including Rastafarianism, Mormonism, Jehovah Witnesses and any other cult claiming that the Lord has already returned in anyway.

God’s Word is eternal

Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. Matthew 24:35 (ESV)

God’s Word, and in this case the specific prophecies of Jesus are settled and eternal. God is sovereign over history and is able to back up His Word.

The limitations of the incarnation

“But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only. Matthew 24:36 (ESV)

This shows the gravity of the incarnation, that the Son was not all knowing in the same way as when He was in His usual state as God.

Live ready

Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the master of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into. Matthew 24:42–43 (ESV)

As individual disciples and as a collective church we need to stay awake and alert. Jesus tells us we will not know when He is coming so we should live everyday with the understanding that hHe may come today (return or call us home).

Be prepared

but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. Matthew 25:4 (ESV)

The main point in this parable is explained by Jesus Himself in verse 13. We must be alert and prepared for the Lord’s return or call. In practical terms this would involve actively living as disciples of Jesus Christ through reading the Bible, prayer, fellowship, serving and worshiping.

Our personal responsibility

But the wise answered, saying, ‘Since there will not be enough for us and for you, go rather to the dealers and buy for yourselves.’ Matthew 25:9 (ESV)

Preparedness and a life lived working out its sanctification in Christ can not simply be transferred. It is the personal responsibility of every believer to eat (the Bible), breathe (Prayer) and live himself or herself. Each of us must stand individually before God, we can not live through or on behalf of others.

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

Additional resources

Jesus Christ, the Bridegroom, Past and Future

Today’s reading: Gen 31:1–55, Matt 23:37–24:28, Eccles 7:13–21

Today’s theme: Finish the Mission

Today an important lesson is concerning the second coming of Jesus. Jesus tells us that wars and hard times are not signs of his return rather the sign will be that the gospel will be preached to all nations (people groups) before the end comes. So let’s finish the mission.

Genesis 31:1–55

God, sovereign over the enemy

yet your father has cheated me and changed my wages ten times. But God did not permit him to harm me. Genesis 31:7 (ESV)

Jacob’s faith was in God, who is sovereign over our lives. He is always in control and will not give us more than we can bear. He controls how far our enemies are able to go.

Matthew 23:37–24:28

The prophecy of Jesus

But he answered them, “You see all these, do you not? Truly, I say to you, there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.” Matthew 24:2 (ESV)

Jesus’ prophecy was fulfilled 40 years later in 70 AD.

Hard times are not a sign

And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. Matthew 24:6 (ESV)

Jesus warns us that we will see persecution and war but encourages us that we should not be shocked or alarmed by this. This is not a sign of the end (possibly to correct any misunderstanding that difficult times indicate the end).

Finish the mission

And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come. Matthew 24:14 (ESV)

This is the great sign (rather than wars, persecution, or bad weather) of the end when Jesus will return to rule and reign from Jerusalem. The Gospel will be proclaimed to every people group. There are currently 7,287 unreached people groups consisting of 2.91 billion people, we must finish the mission.

The elect

And if those days had not been cut short, no human being would be saved. But for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short. Matthew 24:22 (ESV)

God takes special care of those He has elected. This should fill us with praise, hope and faith.

Secure in Christ

For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect. Matthew 24:24 (ESV)

As God’s elect children we can not ultimately be led astray because we are in the Father’s hand. Jesus is our Good Shepherd and the Holy Spirit is our guide. We are secure in Christ.

The second coming

For as the lightning comes from the east and shines as far as the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. Wherever the corpse is, there the vultures will gather. Matthew 24:27–28 (ESV)

This is a good point for cults like Jehovah Witnesses and Rastafarians who say Jesus has already come back. Jesus declares that when He comes back it will not be in some hidden or secret or exclusive way but the whole world will know beyond any doubt!

Ecclesiastes 7:13–21

We all need salvation

Surely there is not a righteous man on earth who does good and never sins. Ecclesiastes 7:20 (ESV)

Every person is in need of salvation. Paul makes a great case for this in the opening chapters of Romans.

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

Additional resources

The Joshua Project

Finish the Mission (Book)

Today’s reading: Gen 30:1–43, Matt 22:23–23:36, Eccles 7:6–12

Today’s theme: Scripture and context

Today one of the key lessons for us is that scripture must be interpreted and applied within it’s true context. It is so important in an age where relativism and personal interpretations rule the day, that we hold to the true context of scripture as intended by the original authors and the Spirit of God.

Genesis 30:1–43

Integrity in work

So my honesty will answer for me later, when you come to look into my wages with you. Every one that is not speckled and spotted among the goats and black among the lambs, if found with me, shall be counted stolen.” Genesis 30:33 (ESV)

Jacob’s integrity in his work and dealings with Laban were based on his trust and faith in God. If we trust in the Lord to take care of us there is no need to be dishonest or come up with our own schemes.

Matthew 22:23–23:36

Context is important

But Jesus answered them, “You are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God. Matthew 22:29 (ESV)

Jesus, in rebuking the Sadducees, makes clear that we should both know the correct context of scripture and experientially know the power and person of God.

Love God with everything

And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. Matthew 22:37 (ESV)

God is uppermost in His own affections, this is the ultimate purpose of our lives, to Love God with everything, using the energy He has provided to serve, honour and glorify Him.

Jesus in the Old Testament

If then David calls him Lord, how is he his son?” Matthew 22:45 (ESV)

Jesus points the leaders back to the Old Testament to make it clear that the Messiah is more than just a descendant of David but is the Lord God Himself, The Son of the Living God.

We are all brothers

But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all brothers. And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven. Neither be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Christ. The greatest among you shall be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. Matthew 23:8–12 (ESV)

Jesus doesn’t want us to live like the Pharisees who saw themselves as better than the “normal” believers in Israel. This is how we should live in God’s kingdom, we should be humble and serve well. We are all brothers and are all equal under Christ. We should not have priests like Roman Catholicism.

Unmixed speech

You serpents, you brood of vipers, how are you to escape being sentenced to hell? Matthew 23:33 (ESV)

Jesus boldly confronts sin, falsehood and hypocrisy and tells them that (without repentance) there is no escape from hell. We can learn for Jesus’ boldness and unmixed speech.

Ecclesiastes 7:6–12

Avoid relativism

Say not, “Why were the former days better than these?” For it is not from wisdom that you ask this. Ecclesiastes 7:10 (ESV)

This is why we should not get side tracked with relative moralism by looking back at older days and saying things like “what has happened to society?” etc. The fact is that evil has been in the world since the fall of man and the enemy would like us to be nostalgic.

Instead we should state the truth regardless of how today differs from yesterday. We should not appeal to relativism in any of it’s subtle forms.

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

Additional resources

Resources on Inspiration & Inerrancy of the Bible

Today’s reading: Gen 28:1–29:35, Matt 21:23–22:22, Eccles 7:1–5

Today’s theme: Fruitful Priest’s

We are called to live fruitful lives as God’s priest’s, messengers and ambassadors here on earth, representing His kingdom. When we consider the fact that we all only have a certain amount of time to live (each of us will die one day), we will live our lives in a productive and fruitful way each day.

Genesis 28:1–29:35

Jesus, the only way

And behold, the LORD stood above it and said, “I am the LORD, the God of Abraham your father and the God of Isaac. The land on which you lie I will give to you and to your offspring. Your offspring shall be like the dust of the earth, and you shall spread abroad to the west and to the east and to the north and to the south, and in you and your offspring shall all the families of the earth be blessed. Genesis 28:13–14 (ESV)

God affirms His promise concerning the land and the people, to Jacob, just like He had done to Isaac and Abraham. The vision of the ladder also points to Jesus who is the only way to God.

God is active

Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land. For I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.” Genesis 28:15 (ESV)

God doesn’t just see the future, He actively brings His will to pass. This truth should fill us with hope and faith in Him.

Praise the Lord

And she conceived again and bore a son, and said, “This time I will praise the LORD.” Therefore she called his name Judah. Then she ceased bearing. Genesis 29:35 (ESV)

God blessed Leah with four sons. When each one was born she hoped that her relationship with Jacob would improve, but with the forth son her focus was no longer on her reluctant husband but on the Lord and she praises God for remembering and blessing her despite man’s hate and indifference.

Matthew 21:23–22:22

Be obedient

And he went to the other son and said the same. And he answered, ‘I go, sir,’ but did not go. Matthew 21:30 (ESV)

Agreeing with God verbally and mentally means nothing if we do not obey Him

Be a fruitful priest to God

Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people producing its fruits. Matthew 21:43 (ESV)

Jesus is dealing with the religious leaders in Israel at this point, who failed to produce fruit for God. This marks the end of the Jewish leaders’ role in mediating God’s authority as His priests, this then became the responsibility of every believer in Christ, both Jew and Gentile. We must seek to have fruitful lives that bring God pleasure.

Tell everyone

Go therefore to the main roads and invite to the wedding feast as many as you find.’ Matthew 22:9 (ESV)

The call to salvation is to all, we should tell everyone.

The chosen

For many are called, but few are chosen.” Matthew 22:14 (ESV)

Many are invited but as in the parable, many refuse to come, while others try to come on their own terms and do not truly submit to God and His kingdom, proving themselves to be false converts and are rejected like the man in the parable. Those who remain at the wedding are the chosen.

Ecclesiastes 7:1–5

We all die

It is better to go to the house of mourning than to go to the house of feasting, for this is the end of all mankind, and the living will lay it to heart. Ecclesiastes 7:2 (ESV)

One day each of us will die. We should not bury our heads in the sand as if this will never happen… it will. We must take note and live our lives in light of that reality, we should leave a good name behind us.

Use time wisely

The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning, but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth. Ecclesiastes 7:4 (ESV)

The wise are conscious of death, while the foolish think only of temporal pleasures. The wisdom of acknowledging death will teach us to number our days, use our time wisely and avoid sin.

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

Additional resources

Wisdom Through Suffering