Theme 1: (1-2) : The Lord is faithful to his covenant and shows love to his people. We must be faithful to the Lord and keep his law. Our relationship with the Lord must not be taken lightly for we will be punished for our unfaithfulness to him. The Lord is faithful to his covenant with Israel for he showed his love to her constantly. ( 1: 2-5). The Lord desires our best and we must not short change him by offering him defective goods or work which is not our best. ( 1:6-13). The Lord must be shown honour for he is the great King over all. (1:14). As people who follow the Lord, we must be faithful to him in our role as mediators and not corrupt his commands by showing favortism to certain people. ( 2:1-9). Unfaithfulness to the Lord's commands is not tolerated. In particular unfaithfulness to the marriage covenant which represents our relationship with the Lord. Thus marriage must not be treated lightly. ( 2: 10-17).
Theme 2; ( 3-4): The Lord longs to restore the broken relationship between himself and humanity. Therefore he promised to send a savior who would act as a mediator between the Lord and people. ( 3:1-4). The Lord does not change and thus unfaithfulness to his covenant will be judged. Thus injustice to the alien , the poor and the widow will be judged. (3:5-12). Those who obey the covenant will be spared from the Lord 's judgement and will act as a witness to how the Lord treats the wicked who disobey and the righteous who obey him. ( 3:13-17). Those whom obeyed the Law of Moses will be perserved by the Lord. ( 4:1-3). The Lord longs to restore the broken relationships between people and himself and between people and people. Therefore he sends Christ as a mediator of a new covenant relationship in which we can know the Lord intamently. ( 4:4).
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Zechariah
Theme 1: (1-4): The Lord desires to restore the relationship he had with humanity from the start in which he knew them well. Our sin can be forgiven and blessing will return when we turn to him. Upon hearing the word of the Lord from Zechariah the people of Israel responded by turning to the Lord. ( 1:1-6). The Lord then promised to bless the people and gave the nation of Israel , peace and prosperity. ( 1:7-17). The Lord promised to dwell with the people and to shield them from harm ( 2:1-5). He promised to take people from other nations and bring them to himself as well. ( 2: 6-13). The Lord restored and protected the High Priest Joshau from Satan ( 3:1-5). He promised to remove the shame from the people as he removed the shame from Joshau the High Priest. Everyone in the land will experience peace and prosperity. ( 3:6-13). The Lord promised to empower the governor Zeurababel and use everyone in the process of restoring Jerusalem. ( 4:6-10).
Theme 2: (5-8) : Obedience to the word of the Lord and devotion to him is key in the process of restoration. Without faithfulness to the Lord our relationship with him will die. The Lord gave his people the commands they were to follow and they were judged on their obedience to them. ( 5:1-4). Everyone had been given the commands they must follow and had a knowledge of the Lord. ( 6:1-8). The Lord must be at the centre of our worship, for we worship to show our love to him. ( 7:1-6). Seeking to be joyful , peaceful and truthful in the Lord are key to living in a close relationship with him. ( 8:16-20).
Theme 3: (9-14): Those who follow the Lord will be blessed by his guidance as they experience peace. The Lord promised to be with the people when they followed him. He said that he would lead ,guide and comfort them. (9:11-17). He promised to gather the people back to himself from the nations they had been scattered in and to be with them. ( 10: 8-12). When we disobey the Lord he will raise up people to perform his judgement through. ( 11: 7-17). The Lord promised to restore the relationship he had with Israel to what it had been during the reign of David. ( 12: 1-9). The Lord promised to call out people who would love and obey him and experience intamacy with him. (13:9). The Lord would be the focus in his coming kingdom ( 14:1-9) and all who followed him in his kingdom would be blessed. ( 14: 16-20).
Theme 2: (5-8) : Obedience to the word of the Lord and devotion to him is key in the process of restoration. Without faithfulness to the Lord our relationship with him will die. The Lord gave his people the commands they were to follow and they were judged on their obedience to them. ( 5:1-4). Everyone had been given the commands they must follow and had a knowledge of the Lord. ( 6:1-8). The Lord must be at the centre of our worship, for we worship to show our love to him. ( 7:1-6). Seeking to be joyful , peaceful and truthful in the Lord are key to living in a close relationship with him. ( 8:16-20).
Theme 3: (9-14): Those who follow the Lord will be blessed by his guidance as they experience peace. The Lord promised to be with the people when they followed him. He said that he would lead ,guide and comfort them. (9:11-17). He promised to gather the people back to himself from the nations they had been scattered in and to be with them. ( 10: 8-12). When we disobey the Lord he will raise up people to perform his judgement through. ( 11: 7-17). The Lord promised to restore the relationship he had with Israel to what it had been during the reign of David. ( 12: 1-9). The Lord promised to call out people who would love and obey him and experience intamacy with him. (13:9). The Lord would be the focus in his coming kingdom ( 14:1-9) and all who followed him in his kingdom would be blessed. ( 14: 16-20).
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Haggai
Theme 1: The Lord must be our central focus and the purpose on which we focus our work and energy. Haggai preached a message of rebuke to the Jewish people who had come back from the exile for ignoring the Lord. They were rebuked for enriching themselves and building fine houses while ignoring the Temple or house of the Lord. (1:2-4). They are told that the challenges they face are a result of ignoring the Lord's House. These challenges were hunger ( 1:5), nakedness( 1:6), not being productive ( 1:7), drought ( 1:8), famine (1:9)and poor quality livestock (1:10-11). Once they turned their focus to the Lord and his plan , after hearing the message of Haggai , prosperity and blessing came when the people began to obey the Lord by working on the Temple restoration. Haggai preached a message of encouragement stating that the Lord was with them and would bless their labour from that time onward. (1:12-15).
Theme 2: when we diligently obey the Lord and make him the focus of our lives, great things will be accomplished as he works through us. Some of the people who returned from the exile had remembered the splendor of the former Temple and become discouraged by their work. However the Lord told them that he would bless their work and that the new Temple would be more spectacular than the former one. (2:1-9). Prosperity and blessing come to the people when they obeyed the Lord. Once again they enjoyed bountiful harvests and the Lord's blessing on their livestock and work. ( 2:10-19). The prophetic message of Haggai concluded with a message of encouragement ,hope and salvation. A time was coming when the High Priest Zerubabel would be used to restore the fortunes of Israel and bring back the Lord's blessing. ( 2: 20-23).
Theme 2: when we diligently obey the Lord and make him the focus of our lives, great things will be accomplished as he works through us. Some of the people who returned from the exile had remembered the splendor of the former Temple and become discouraged by their work. However the Lord told them that he would bless their work and that the new Temple would be more spectacular than the former one. (2:1-9). Prosperity and blessing come to the people when they obeyed the Lord. Once again they enjoyed bountiful harvests and the Lord's blessing on their livestock and work. ( 2:10-19). The prophetic message of Haggai concluded with a message of encouragement ,hope and salvation. A time was coming when the High Priest Zerubabel would be used to restore the fortunes of Israel and bring back the Lord's blessing. ( 2: 20-23).
Zepheniah
Theme 1: The Lord is sovereign and in control of all things , ordering the events of human history.He rebukes his people for not honoring the covenant he made with their ancestors and worshiping Baal. (1:4). Judgment is uttered against the people for not turning to the Lord and showing him honor.( 1:5-6). The power of the all existing one ( Yahweh) over the kingdoms of the world is noted and the people are warned that their wealth and prosperity will be of no value when they face his judgment. ( 1:7-13). The Lord's power will be enforced against the nation of Judah and none of the wealth of the people will be able to help them. ( 1:14-18).
Theme 2 : The Lord in his sovereign role as King over the universe responds to the actions of people. A warning is given to the people that if they repent of their sins, seek the Lord, are obedient to his Law and live righteous and humble lives, they might be spared calamity.(2:3).The nations surrounding Judah are also held accountable for their actions and judgment is made against the Philistines (2:8-11), Ammonites (2:8-11), Ethiopians (2:12) and Assyrians (2:13-14). In each case taunting against the Lord and holding his people in contempt is judged. ( 2:8&2:10). In his sovereign role , the Lord is also faithful to his covenant with Israel as he promises to restore the nation after the time of judgment. (2:7).
Theme 3: The Lord treats all people equally and does not hold anyone to a different standard. All those who disobey his commands even his chosen people Israel face his judgment. (3:1-8). The Lord promised to transform and shape the peoples of the world through the events he was orchestrating. They would become people with a new attitude and mindset .(3:9-15). The Lord's desire is to bring peace to all people and allow them to get to know him intimately. (3:16-20).
Theme 2 : The Lord in his sovereign role as King over the universe responds to the actions of people. A warning is given to the people that if they repent of their sins, seek the Lord, are obedient to his Law and live righteous and humble lives, they might be spared calamity.(2:3).The nations surrounding Judah are also held accountable for their actions and judgment is made against the Philistines (2:8-11), Ammonites (2:8-11), Ethiopians (2:12) and Assyrians (2:13-14). In each case taunting against the Lord and holding his people in contempt is judged. ( 2:8&2:10). In his sovereign role , the Lord is also faithful to his covenant with Israel as he promises to restore the nation after the time of judgment. (2:7).
Theme 3: The Lord treats all people equally and does not hold anyone to a different standard. All those who disobey his commands even his chosen people Israel face his judgment. (3:1-8). The Lord promised to transform and shape the peoples of the world through the events he was orchestrating. They would become people with a new attitude and mindset .(3:9-15). The Lord's desire is to bring peace to all people and allow them to get to know him intimately. (3:16-20).
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Habukuk
The central theme of the book is that of the Lord's sovereignty. He is in control of all and must be worshiped. The Lord used the Bablyonians to execute his judgement against his people for not following him. ( 1: 1-11). Those who do not follow the Lord will perish , but those who do follow him will be spared calamity and destruction.(2:1-4). In his sovereign role as judge over the world , he judges and punishes violence and injustice.( 2:5-17). Idols are worthless to do anything and the Lord alone is to be worshipped . ( 2:18-20). He rules the world ( 3:1-12) and in his sovereignty he is faithful to his covenant with Israel and promises to restore her after the exile. ( 3:13-16). A key insight I gain from Habukuk is that despite our cirumstances the Lord is to be worshipped. ( 3:17-19).
Nahum
The central theme of Nahum is that the Lord is sovereign over all and must be worshiped and obeyed. Niveah , the capital of the Assryian empire is condemned for their not seeking the Lord and making their own plans. (1: 1-11). The things they worshiped will be made useless( 1:12-15) and those who follow their example will be punished like the Assryians were for not following the Lord and worshiping him. ( 2: 3-9). The symbol of the Lion central to them is used against the Assryians as they are compared to an animal being devoured by a lion, when they are judged by the Lord. ( 2: 10-13). Empires like the Assryian empire who do not follow the Lord will be judged and brought down as the Lord harshly punished them. ( 3:11-19).
Micah
Theme 1: (1-3): Following the Lord involves being just and our relationship with the Lord involves caring for others and treating them right. A vital aspect of following the Lord is not following other gods and worshiping other than the Lord. ( 1: 1-9). Violence and injustice against the poor is punished by the Lord and all acts of violence and injustice will be judged by him. ( 2: 1-11). The Lord condemed the corrupt judges whom are portrayed as vicious beasts. ( 3:1-4). Leadership based on greed and corruption is rebuked and judged . Jerusalem is told that it will become a ruin because of these acts. ( 3:9-12)
Theme 2: (4-5): The Lord plan for the world involves building a kingdom based on peace. In this perfect time , the world will cease from war and people will walk in the Lord's ways. ( 4:1-5). The Lord's plan to restore Israel involved all of his people being included in the kingdom , even the weak and needy. ( 4: 6-10). The Lord planned to send a Savior into the world from Bethleham to establish his kingdom. ( 5:1-4). The Lord will harshly judge those who refuse to follow him after seeing his power. ( 5 :9-15).
Theme 3: (6-7): The Lord requires us to worship him and part of worship involves justice and right living in which we care for other people. The people of Jerusalem are told that the Lord required them to love mercy, seek justice and walk humbly with him. ( 6:8). Prosperity based on corruption , violence and lies will perish. Those who gain prosperity from these methods will be judged harshly. ( 6:9-16). Security is found in the Lord and obeying his commands ( 7:7).
Theme 2: (4-5): The Lord plan for the world involves building a kingdom based on peace. In this perfect time , the world will cease from war and people will walk in the Lord's ways. ( 4:1-5). The Lord's plan to restore Israel involved all of his people being included in the kingdom , even the weak and needy. ( 4: 6-10). The Lord planned to send a Savior into the world from Bethleham to establish his kingdom. ( 5:1-4). The Lord will harshly judge those who refuse to follow him after seeing his power. ( 5 :9-15).
Theme 3: (6-7): The Lord requires us to worship him and part of worship involves justice and right living in which we care for other people. The people of Jerusalem are told that the Lord required them to love mercy, seek justice and walk humbly with him. ( 6:8). Prosperity based on corruption , violence and lies will perish. Those who gain prosperity from these methods will be judged harshly. ( 6:9-16). Security is found in the Lord and obeying his commands ( 7:7).
Jonah
Theme 1: The Lord is sovereign and we must be willing to obey his commands. Even when we do not understand Jehovah's logic and his commands seem foolish to us , he must still be obeyed. Jonah fled from the Lord heading west instead of east as he did not want to proclaim God's message of salvation to his country's enemies the Assryians. ( 1:1-3). The Lord caused a great storm and the people with Jonah are afraid and they listen to his command and throw him into the sea. Jonah is saved by a whale. ( 1:17). The whale takes him to Niveah and spits him out on dry land. Thus Jonah beings to tell the people God 's message. ( 4:4).
Theme 2: The Lord alone is to be worshiped as he is the one who saves us from death. In the belly of the whale Jonah prayed to the Lord and thanked him for saving his life and acknowledge that the Lord was in control of all things and that deliverance from death was his alone. ( 2:6-9).
Theme 3 : The Lord in his mercy listens to our prayers and can change his mind. Jonah proclaimed the Lord's message of judgement walking around the city for 3 days. The King of Niveah proclaimed a fast and the people repented. Thus the Lord decided not to destroy the city of Niveah. ( 3:1-10).
Theme 4: We must have compassion on all people and see them from the Lord's viewpoint. Jonah was angry and said to the Lord that he was mad enough to die because of what happened. ( 4:1-3). God provided him with a plant to shade him from the sun and then caused the plant to die. Jonah became angry at the Lord and was rebuked by him. The Lord told him that it was foolish to be upset about a plant that he did not make and not be concerned about Niveah which had 120 000 men plus women and children. ( 4:4-11).
Theme 2: The Lord alone is to be worshiped as he is the one who saves us from death. In the belly of the whale Jonah prayed to the Lord and thanked him for saving his life and acknowledge that the Lord was in control of all things and that deliverance from death was his alone. ( 2:6-9).
Theme 3 : The Lord in his mercy listens to our prayers and can change his mind. Jonah proclaimed the Lord's message of judgement walking around the city for 3 days. The King of Niveah proclaimed a fast and the people repented. Thus the Lord decided not to destroy the city of Niveah. ( 3:1-10).
Theme 4: We must have compassion on all people and see them from the Lord's viewpoint. Jonah was angry and said to the Lord that he was mad enough to die because of what happened. ( 4:1-3). God provided him with a plant to shade him from the sun and then caused the plant to die. Jonah became angry at the Lord and was rebuked by him. The Lord told him that it was foolish to be upset about a plant that he did not make and not be concerned about Niveah which had 120 000 men plus women and children. ( 4:4-11).
Obadiah
Theme 1: Pride and self reliance is condemned as the Lord alone is in control of all things. Edom is told that it will be brought down and not stand despite its mountain fortress as the Lord himself will bring about their defeat. ( 1:3-4). The allies of Edom will not help her and she will be plundered. Her wise and understanding people will no longer remain and the great warriors of the nation will be defeated. ( 1: 6-9).
Theme 2: Boasting and arrogance at the misfortune of others is condemned. The descendants of Esau are rebuked for gloating over the misfortunes of their related descendants of Jacob. (Judah). They are rebuked for rejoicing over Judah's defeat, of sharing in her plunder and of selling her people into slavery.(1:10-14). The Lord in his judgment upon the nation stated that Edom would no longer exist and that her land would be divided between Israel and Judah. They would make it a kingdom of the Lord. (1:15-21).
Theme 2: Boasting and arrogance at the misfortune of others is condemned. The descendants of Esau are rebuked for gloating over the misfortunes of their related descendants of Jacob. (Judah). They are rebuked for rejoicing over Judah's defeat, of sharing in her plunder and of selling her people into slavery.(1:10-14). The Lord in his judgment upon the nation stated that Edom would no longer exist and that her land would be divided between Israel and Judah. They would make it a kingdom of the Lord. (1:15-21).
Monday, August 10, 2009
Amos
Theme 1: (1-3): People and nations are accountable to the Lord for their actions. We all must follow the Law and its respect for community in dealing with others. Syria is rebuked for its harsh punishment against Israel. (1:3-5) and the Philistines are told they will no longer be a people for they sought to sell Israel into slavery. ( 1:6-8). Judah is condemned for not keeping the statues of Jehovah. (2:4-5). Those who know the Lord's law will be held more accountable for disobeying it. (3:1-8). The Lord hates robbers and violent acts noting they will be punished.(3:9-15).
Theme 2 : (4-6): The Lord desires a relationship with us and in this relationship we live differently as we care about other people and look after the needy and vulnerable in society. The Lord judged Israel for their abuse of the poor and needy. (4:1-3). He desired them to turn from their sins and sent plagues upon the land but they did not respond to these plagues and return to the Lord. ( 4:4-11). He desired the people to repent of their sins and be restored to him. (5:4-7). Injustice against the poor damages our relationship with the Lord and we can not worship him without ethical living. ( 5:21-24).Pride and self reliance is judged. ( 6: 4-10).
Theme 3: (7-9): The Lord is in control and no one can thrawt his plans. When we are unfaithful in keeping his commands we face judgement. This is used to restore our relationship with Christ. Amos begs the Lord and he relents in his harsher judgement of Israel. ( 7:1-6). Like the High Priest Amaziah , those who oppose God 's plans will face judgement. ( 7: 10-17). If we reject God we should not expect to be able to call to him in times of distress. Repentence is our only option. ( 8:10). The Lord judges nations and individuals and in doing so desires us to turn to him. (9:1-9).
Theme 2 : (4-6): The Lord desires a relationship with us and in this relationship we live differently as we care about other people and look after the needy and vulnerable in society. The Lord judged Israel for their abuse of the poor and needy. (4:1-3). He desired them to turn from their sins and sent plagues upon the land but they did not respond to these plagues and return to the Lord. ( 4:4-11). He desired the people to repent of their sins and be restored to him. (5:4-7). Injustice against the poor damages our relationship with the Lord and we can not worship him without ethical living. ( 5:21-24).Pride and self reliance is judged. ( 6: 4-10).
Theme 3: (7-9): The Lord is in control and no one can thrawt his plans. When we are unfaithful in keeping his commands we face judgement. This is used to restore our relationship with Christ. Amos begs the Lord and he relents in his harsher judgement of Israel. ( 7:1-6). Like the High Priest Amaziah , those who oppose God 's plans will face judgement. ( 7: 10-17). If we reject God we should not expect to be able to call to him in times of distress. Repentence is our only option. ( 8:10). The Lord judges nations and individuals and in doing so desires us to turn to him. (9:1-9).
Revelation
Theme 1(1-7): Christ alone is to be our focus as everything else in life is temporary and will pass away. Christ in his sovereignty allowed believers in him to act as intercessors making Christians priests.(1:6). In his dominion he chose to give us a glimsp of what will happen at the end of the world. ( 1: 18). We as Christians need to keep Christ as our first love and the object of our devotion. ( 2:2-8). We must abstian from teachings contrary to Christ's and focus on the Word. ( 2:19-24). We must not become self reliant and lose our focus on Christ. ( 3:14-22). We must respond in gratitude and devotion like the Elders around the throne of God , giving praise to Jesus. ( 4:9-11). Christ has reedemed us and he alone is to be worshipped. ( 5:11-14). The people of the world respond in fear to the Lord's judgement and our unable to hide from him , because he is sovereign. ( 6:15-17). Those who follow Christ , who judges the world will be comforted by him as he wipes away our tears. ( 7:15-17).
Theme 2(8-15): The Lord executes partial judgement in order to cause people to see their sin and return to himself. After 4 trumpets are blown and disater comes upon the earth a warning is given to the people of the coming judgement on the earth. (8:13). Despite seeing he Lord's power, they do not worship him but worship other things. ( 9:20-23). Angels proclaimed a ,message of God's glory and greatness but the people do not respond to it. (11:15-18). When Satan tries to war against Christ , he is defeated and cast down into the earth. ( 12:13=17). Those who worshipped and followed Christ were spared and were not sealed with the mark of the beast but with the mark of Christ. ( 13:16-17). Christians are told to persevere in their faith as they will have rest from suffering. ( 14:13_. Those who know Christ will sing a song of praise , praising him for his faithfulness to them. This is a song about his salvation. (15: 3-4).
Theme 3 (16-22): Christ desires all people to come to him but after a long period of time and several warnings, the ultimate judgement will come. The Lord showed his authority by sending plagues on the earth. ( 16). Although the people cursed God because of his judgement, they refused to repent of their sins and acknowlege him. ( 16:11). The Beast will try to oppose Christ by warring against him , but will be deafeated by him. (17: 13-14).Bablyon representing the sin of the world is destroyed and an angel called for the followers of Christ to rejoice. ( 18:20). In the final judgement the Beast and his prophet are judged being thrown into a fiery lake. (19:20-21). All those who do not repent and accept Christ will experience the same judgement and torment. (20:13-14). Christ prepared a place for those who have accepted his salvation through repentence and faith in him. In heaven we shall live with him and our sorrow will be gone forever. (21:1-8). In heaven we will have intimate fellowship with Jesus Christ.( 22:1-5).
Theme 2(8-15): The Lord executes partial judgement in order to cause people to see their sin and return to himself. After 4 trumpets are blown and disater comes upon the earth a warning is given to the people of the coming judgement on the earth. (8:13). Despite seeing he Lord's power, they do not worship him but worship other things. ( 9:20-23). Angels proclaimed a ,message of God's glory and greatness but the people do not respond to it. (11:15-18). When Satan tries to war against Christ , he is defeated and cast down into the earth. ( 12:13=17). Those who worshipped and followed Christ were spared and were not sealed with the mark of the beast but with the mark of Christ. ( 13:16-17). Christians are told to persevere in their faith as they will have rest from suffering. ( 14:13_. Those who know Christ will sing a song of praise , praising him for his faithfulness to them. This is a song about his salvation. (15: 3-4).
Theme 3 (16-22): Christ desires all people to come to him but after a long period of time and several warnings, the ultimate judgement will come. The Lord showed his authority by sending plagues on the earth. ( 16). Although the people cursed God because of his judgement, they refused to repent of their sins and acknowlege him. ( 16:11). The Beast will try to oppose Christ by warring against him , but will be deafeated by him. (17: 13-14).Bablyon representing the sin of the world is destroyed and an angel called for the followers of Christ to rejoice. ( 18:20). In the final judgement the Beast and his prophet are judged being thrown into a fiery lake. (19:20-21). All those who do not repent and accept Christ will experience the same judgement and torment. (20:13-14). Christ prepared a place for those who have accepted his salvation through repentence and faith in him. In heaven we shall live with him and our sorrow will be gone forever. (21:1-8). In heaven we will have intimate fellowship with Jesus Christ.( 22:1-5).
Monday, August 3, 2009
Jude
Themes and Insights Jude :
Theme 1: 1-16: The need to be aware of the opposition to the faith and to trust in the Lord. Jude wrote to all believers and wanted them to struggle for and defend their faith in Christ. ( 1:1-3). He goes on to warn them about those who distorted the truth of Christ and denied him. (1:4). Jude recounted the disobedience of those who rebelled against Christ including Sodom and Gommorah, Cain, Balaam and the clan of Korah. These people were filled with wickedness and indulged in their sinful passions. ( 1: 5-16).
Theme 2 : 17-25: : The need to live lives faithful to the Lord and to be his witnesses in a dark world. Judge again warned them that in the last days sinners and scoffers would abound, causing divisions in the Church. ( 1:17-19). However he urged them to pray , keep focused on God 's love and look forward to eternal life with Christ. ( 1: 20-21). He urged them to save those they could through their witness. ( 1:22-23). Jude concluded with a doxology reminding us that the Holy Spirit , Christ and God who keep us from destruction are to be worshiped and praised forever. ( 1: 24-25).
Theme 1: 1-16: The need to be aware of the opposition to the faith and to trust in the Lord. Jude wrote to all believers and wanted them to struggle for and defend their faith in Christ. ( 1:1-3). He goes on to warn them about those who distorted the truth of Christ and denied him. (1:4). Jude recounted the disobedience of those who rebelled against Christ including Sodom and Gommorah, Cain, Balaam and the clan of Korah. These people were filled with wickedness and indulged in their sinful passions. ( 1: 5-16).
Theme 2 : 17-25: : The need to live lives faithful to the Lord and to be his witnesses in a dark world. Judge again warned them that in the last days sinners and scoffers would abound, causing divisions in the Church. ( 1:17-19). However he urged them to pray , keep focused on God 's love and look forward to eternal life with Christ. ( 1: 20-21). He urged them to save those they could through their witness. ( 1:22-23). Jude concluded with a doxology reminding us that the Holy Spirit , Christ and God who keep us from destruction are to be worshiped and praised forever. ( 1: 24-25).
Joel
Themes Insights Joel
Theme 1 : 1-2:17: The Lord will bring calamity and judgement against the people for their disobedience. Joel proclaimed judgement against the nation of Judah telling of a coming destructive swarm of locusts who would ravage the fields. ( 1:1-4).Destruction of all the harvests and the removal of offerings to the Lord foretells calamity. ( 1:5-10). A call for repentance and worshiping the Lord is made. ( 1: 11-14). The destruction of the Lord is to be so severe that even the animals would cry for mercy. ( 1:15-20). A call is made to be prepared for the Lord's judgement as a swarm of locusts ravaged the land. ( 2:1-6). This disaster is a direct judgement from the Lord for the people's disobedience and will be a harsh one. ( 2:7-12). The people are encouraged to repent and to seek the Lord's healing and forgiveness. ( 2:12-17).
Theme 2 : 2:18-3:21: The restoration of Judah and the blessing of the Lord. The plague of locusts would end and prosperity would be restored. Most importantly the people's relationship with the Lord would be restored. ( 2:18-27). The coming day of the Lord's judgement is announced and those who sought the Lord would be saved and in that time the Lord's spirit would be avaliable to all who sought him. ( 2:28-32). The nations who opposed Israel would be judged . ( 3:1-3). The coastal nations surrounding Israel would also be judged( 3:9-17). The prophecy concluded with the blessing of the Lord being poured out on Zion , the Lord's dwellling place and the place of Temple worship. ( 3:18-21).
Theme 1 : 1-2:17: The Lord will bring calamity and judgement against the people for their disobedience. Joel proclaimed judgement against the nation of Judah telling of a coming destructive swarm of locusts who would ravage the fields. ( 1:1-4).Destruction of all the harvests and the removal of offerings to the Lord foretells calamity. ( 1:5-10). A call for repentance and worshiping the Lord is made. ( 1: 11-14). The destruction of the Lord is to be so severe that even the animals would cry for mercy. ( 1:15-20). A call is made to be prepared for the Lord's judgement as a swarm of locusts ravaged the land. ( 2:1-6). This disaster is a direct judgement from the Lord for the people's disobedience and will be a harsh one. ( 2:7-12). The people are encouraged to repent and to seek the Lord's healing and forgiveness. ( 2:12-17).
Theme 2 : 2:18-3:21: The restoration of Judah and the blessing of the Lord. The plague of locusts would end and prosperity would be restored. Most importantly the people's relationship with the Lord would be restored. ( 2:18-27). The coming day of the Lord's judgement is announced and those who sought the Lord would be saved and in that time the Lord's spirit would be avaliable to all who sought him. ( 2:28-32). The nations who opposed Israel would be judged . ( 3:1-3). The coastal nations surrounding Israel would also be judged( 3:9-17). The prophecy concluded with the blessing of the Lord being poured out on Zion , the Lord's dwellling place and the place of Temple worship. ( 3:18-21).
Hosea
Themes Insights Hosea
Theme 1: Unfaithfulness to the Lord and to his covenant relationship results in judgement and loss of the Lord's favor. Hosea married a prostitute who bore him 3 children. The first was called Jezreel meaning God's sows noting the punishment the nation would face. The second is called Lo-Rumah meaning not pitied for the Lord would not have pity on the people. The final child is called Lo-Ammi meaning not my people for Israel would no longer be regarded as his people as a result of their sin. ( 1:4-11). Israel is told of the Lord's displeasure in them seeking other gods noting that this has resulted in loss for their vineyards. ( 2:8-13). The Lord will remember our sin and judge us for our unfaithfulness. ( 4:5-12). Pride and unfaithfulness to the Lord in worshiping other things result in judgement. ( 5:1-7). The Lord notes our deeds and sins (7:1-2) and knows that pride is a source of our sin and unfaithfulness to him.( 7: 10). God is in control of all things and seeking strength in anything apart from him is foolish( 8:8-9). The worship of other dieties is punished ( 9:1-10) and the Lord rejects those who reject him as Israel is scattered among the nations. (9:11-17). The Lord 's correction is to restore the broken relationship we have with him and to make us closer to him. ( 11: 10-11). The Lord's desire in discipling us is to bring us back to himself and cause us to repent. (13:1-9).
Theme 2: The Lord loves us and longs for us to repent and return to him. His desire is to restore us back to himself and not to judge and punish us. The Lord told Hosea that he would restore the broken relationship between Israel and himself. They would once again be known as his people. ( 2:14-23). Hosea 3 tells of Hosea marrying a wife who is a whore and then reedeming her life. This illustrates how God relates to us and he longs to redeem and restore us. The Lord is willing to forgive and restore us when we repent and he is willling to love us again. ( 5:14-15). God desires to restore and heal the broken relationship with his followers ( 6:11). We can always come back to the Lord as he is willingly to love us uncondtionally. ( 10:12). The Lord is willing to restore the good things of the past when we turn to him. ( 13:14-16). Although the Lord judges and disciplines us, his judgement is temporary but his love lasts for all time. ( 14:4-9).
Theme 1: Unfaithfulness to the Lord and to his covenant relationship results in judgement and loss of the Lord's favor. Hosea married a prostitute who bore him 3 children. The first was called Jezreel meaning God's sows noting the punishment the nation would face. The second is called Lo-Rumah meaning not pitied for the Lord would not have pity on the people. The final child is called Lo-Ammi meaning not my people for Israel would no longer be regarded as his people as a result of their sin. ( 1:4-11). Israel is told of the Lord's displeasure in them seeking other gods noting that this has resulted in loss for their vineyards. ( 2:8-13). The Lord will remember our sin and judge us for our unfaithfulness. ( 4:5-12). Pride and unfaithfulness to the Lord in worshiping other things result in judgement. ( 5:1-7). The Lord notes our deeds and sins (7:1-2) and knows that pride is a source of our sin and unfaithfulness to him.( 7: 10). God is in control of all things and seeking strength in anything apart from him is foolish( 8:8-9). The worship of other dieties is punished ( 9:1-10) and the Lord rejects those who reject him as Israel is scattered among the nations. (9:11-17). The Lord 's correction is to restore the broken relationship we have with him and to make us closer to him. ( 11: 10-11). The Lord's desire in discipling us is to bring us back to himself and cause us to repent. (13:1-9).
Theme 2: The Lord loves us and longs for us to repent and return to him. His desire is to restore us back to himself and not to judge and punish us. The Lord told Hosea that he would restore the broken relationship between Israel and himself. They would once again be known as his people. ( 2:14-23). Hosea 3 tells of Hosea marrying a wife who is a whore and then reedeming her life. This illustrates how God relates to us and he longs to redeem and restore us. The Lord is willing to forgive and restore us when we repent and he is willling to love us again. ( 5:14-15). God desires to restore and heal the broken relationship with his followers ( 6:11). We can always come back to the Lord as he is willingly to love us uncondtionally. ( 10:12). The Lord is willing to restore the good things of the past when we turn to him. ( 13:14-16). Although the Lord judges and disciplines us, his judgement is temporary but his love lasts for all time. ( 14:4-9).
Thursday, July 30, 2009
3 John
Theme 1: (1-8): We need to uphold and bless those who are faithful to the Lord and who walk in the truth of the gospel. John addressed his letter to Giaus an elder whom he loved in the truth, praying that all goes well with him (1-2). He was overjoyed that Giaus was faithful to the gospel and was walking in the truth of Christ as a testimony to the gospel.(3-4). John further commended him for his support of fellow believers and his aid in the ministry of the gospel .(5-7). He commended Giaus's actions as an example for other believers to follow , saying that they need to support fellow co workers who proclaimed the gospel. (8). Ministry is something that all Christians are to do not just leaders.
Theme 2: (9-15): We need to uphold and defend the truth of the gospel. Teachers or teaching which distort the truth of the gospel or oppose it are to be removed from the Church. John rebuked a man called Diotrophes who hoped to be in charge and spread lies against John. He also expelled from his house Church those whom defended John. (9-10). John urged him to imitate the good and to know that all good was from God and all evil from the devil. ( 11-12). John closed his letter with an encouragement to Giaus wiahing him the peace of Christ.(13-15). Thus he encouraged him in his faith as Giaus strived to be a godly follower of Christ.
Theme 2: (9-15): We need to uphold and defend the truth of the gospel. Teachers or teaching which distort the truth of the gospel or oppose it are to be removed from the Church. John rebuked a man called Diotrophes who hoped to be in charge and spread lies against John. He also expelled from his house Church those whom defended John. (9-10). John urged him to imitate the good and to know that all good was from God and all evil from the devil. ( 11-12). John closed his letter with an encouragement to Giaus wiahing him the peace of Christ.(13-15). Thus he encouraged him in his faith as Giaus strived to be a godly follower of Christ.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Daniel
Theme 1 : (1-3)The Lord requires us to obey and put our trust in him, in all situations and cirumstances. Daniel and his companions were faithful to the Lord and so they were well treated in Bablyon. They were careful to obey the Kosher laws about food given in the covenant and so the Lord blessed them making them healthy and wise. (1:8-10). Daniel and his companions Shadrack, Messach and Abendigo trusted the Lord to give them insight and therefore were able to interpret King Nebucadnezer's dream. ( 2:41-49). Shadrack , Messach and Abendigo refused to bow to the image of King Nebucadnezer and risked their lives being thrown into a fiery furnance. ( 3: 16-19). The Lord was faithful to protect them and show to everyone his power. They were not harmed at all causing King Nebucadnezer to worship the Lord.( 3:24-29).
Theme 2: (4-6): The Lord alone is the one to be worshiped and faithfulness to his law and devotion to him are blessed. King Nebucadnezer was warned in a dream to honor the Lord and acknowledge his sovereignty. ( 4:1-28). The dream is fulfilled when refusing to worship the Lord Nebucadnezer is given the mind of an animal and lives in the fields. After a year his mind is restored and he worships the Lord. His kingdom is restored and he faithfully obeyed the Lord until his death. ( 4:29-37). King Belshazzar does not heed the example of his father but worships idols to the gods of silver , gold , bronze, iron and wood using the goblets from the Lord's Temple.(5:1-4). The Lord writes in Hebrew on the wall and Daniel being summoned by the King tells him that he is being judged for his disobedience. King Darius conquered the kingdom that night and the King Belshazzar died. ( 5:5-31). Daniel in Persia was given a high rank in the empire as he had found favor with King Darius. The other officials jealous of Daniel tricked the King into signing a decree that he alone was to be worshipped. If any other god was worshipped the person who did so would be casted into a den of lions. Daniel continued to worship the Lord and was thrown into a den of lions. King Darius prayed all night for Daniel's safety and was over joyed to see that the Lord had saved him. He took Daniel outside of the den of lions and casted those who plotted against Daniel into the den where they were consumed whole. Darius then worshipped the Lord alone. (6).
Theme 3: (7-9)The Lord is sovereign and has a plan of salvation for the world. Daniel had a vision of the coming empires of Persia and Greece (7:17-22). He is then was given a vision of an everlasting kingdom which would have dominion over all known as the Lord's Kingdom. ( 7: 23-28). Daniel had another vision of the kingdom of Greece ( 8:1-14) and was told that the ruler of this kingdom would be judged for his lies and deceite by the Lord himself. (8:25). From Daniel's prayer of intercession for Jerusalem , I am reminded that the Lord gives us wisdom and perspective on the challenges we face. ( 9:21-23). At the end of the vision Daniel was given a message about God's restoration and salvation. (9:26-27).
Theme 4: (10-12):The Lord equips , protects and strengthens those who are faithful to him. Daniel in a further vision of the Lord 's coming judgement was given a word of encouragement. The Angel Gabriel, told him that he would be safe and tells him to be strong and courageous. ( 10:18-20). In a further vision Daniel learned of the coming Greek empire and of the defeat of the Greek ruler by the Romans. (11:1-35). The insight I gain from this is that pride and considering one's self to be God will be punished. In fact Antiocus Ephinany who descrated the Lord's Temple was punished. ( 11:40-45). The end of Daniel's prophecy and visions contained a word of encouragement for him. He was told that despite the coming judgement , he would be blessed and protected until the end of his life. (12:13).
Theme 2: (4-6): The Lord alone is the one to be worshiped and faithfulness to his law and devotion to him are blessed. King Nebucadnezer was warned in a dream to honor the Lord and acknowledge his sovereignty. ( 4:1-28). The dream is fulfilled when refusing to worship the Lord Nebucadnezer is given the mind of an animal and lives in the fields. After a year his mind is restored and he worships the Lord. His kingdom is restored and he faithfully obeyed the Lord until his death. ( 4:29-37). King Belshazzar does not heed the example of his father but worships idols to the gods of silver , gold , bronze, iron and wood using the goblets from the Lord's Temple.(5:1-4). The Lord writes in Hebrew on the wall and Daniel being summoned by the King tells him that he is being judged for his disobedience. King Darius conquered the kingdom that night and the King Belshazzar died. ( 5:5-31). Daniel in Persia was given a high rank in the empire as he had found favor with King Darius. The other officials jealous of Daniel tricked the King into signing a decree that he alone was to be worshipped. If any other god was worshipped the person who did so would be casted into a den of lions. Daniel continued to worship the Lord and was thrown into a den of lions. King Darius prayed all night for Daniel's safety and was over joyed to see that the Lord had saved him. He took Daniel outside of the den of lions and casted those who plotted against Daniel into the den where they were consumed whole. Darius then worshipped the Lord alone. (6).
Theme 3: (7-9)The Lord is sovereign and has a plan of salvation for the world. Daniel had a vision of the coming empires of Persia and Greece (7:17-22). He is then was given a vision of an everlasting kingdom which would have dominion over all known as the Lord's Kingdom. ( 7: 23-28). Daniel had another vision of the kingdom of Greece ( 8:1-14) and was told that the ruler of this kingdom would be judged for his lies and deceite by the Lord himself. (8:25). From Daniel's prayer of intercession for Jerusalem , I am reminded that the Lord gives us wisdom and perspective on the challenges we face. ( 9:21-23). At the end of the vision Daniel was given a message about God's restoration and salvation. (9:26-27).
Theme 4: (10-12):The Lord equips , protects and strengthens those who are faithful to him. Daniel in a further vision of the Lord 's coming judgement was given a word of encouragement. The Angel Gabriel, told him that he would be safe and tells him to be strong and courageous. ( 10:18-20). In a further vision Daniel learned of the coming Greek empire and of the defeat of the Greek ruler by the Romans. (11:1-35). The insight I gain from this is that pride and considering one's self to be God will be punished. In fact Antiocus Ephinany who descrated the Lord's Temple was punished. ( 11:40-45). The end of Daniel's prophecy and visions contained a word of encouragement for him. He was told that despite the coming judgement , he would be blessed and protected until the end of his life. (12:13).
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
2 John
Theme 1: CChristians are to walk in the truth and to love others. John addressed his letter to an elect lady and her children, whom he loved in the truth. (1:1). He wished them grace, mercy and peace from God , the Father, and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son in truth and love. ( 1:3). John expressed joy that the Lady and her children were walking in the truth. ( 1:4). He stated that he was not giving them a new command when he told them to love others. He defined love as walking in obedience to the commands of the Lord. ( 1:5-6). Thus we must know God's truth.
Theme 2: Christians are to guard against deception and only follow teaching which agrees with the Bible. John warned them that there were many false teachers that did not confess Jesus and to be on guard against such teachers for they were deceivers and against Christ. He urged them to be on alert for such people , so that they would not be deceived and lose what they had worked for but be rewarded by Jesus Christ. ( 1:7-9). John concluded his warning by telling the Elect Lady and her children that they must not receive or welcome any teacher who did not agree with the gospel for if she did so , she would be participating in the sins of the false teacher. ( 1:9-11).
Theme 2: Christians are to guard against deception and only follow teaching which agrees with the Bible. John warned them that there were many false teachers that did not confess Jesus and to be on guard against such teachers for they were deceivers and against Christ. He urged them to be on alert for such people , so that they would not be deceived and lose what they had worked for but be rewarded by Jesus Christ. ( 1:7-9). John concluded his warning by telling the Elect Lady and her children that they must not receive or welcome any teacher who did not agree with the gospel for if she did so , she would be participating in the sins of the false teacher. ( 1:9-11).
Ezekial
Theme 1: (1-24): Judgment against Israel for neglecting the covenant. Ezekiel had a vision of the Lord appearing on a throne and saw his power. ( 1:10-28). In his commissioning as a prophet , he is told that he is being sent to a rebellious and sinful people who had not obeyed the covenant. ( 2:3-7). Ezekiel is told to eat a scroll containing the words of the covenant , which he does ( 3:3-4) and then he is empowered to be the Lord's messenger ( 3:24-27).
Ezekiel portrayed the coming siege of Jerusalem for disobeying the covenant. (4). He was told by God to preach a judgment of pestilence against the city for disobedience (5) and preached another message of judgment for their idolatry. (6). He preached against trusting in their wealth for salvation (7) and pronounced further judgment for their disobedience. (8-9). The Temple had lost the Lord's presence and was now a place of idols , Ezekiel told them, (10-11). He brought further warning against the nation focusing on their leaders (12), prophets and teachers (13) , idols (14-16) , military ( 17) and social justice and integrity ( 18-19). The end result being that they lost the Lord's blessing (20) and were judged and disciplined . (21: 1-17). The cause of the exile that has occurred is disobedience to the Lord and his covenant. ( 22:1-6). Forgetting the Lord results in judgment ( 23:46-49) and through this judgment the people of Israel would know that the Lord alone was God. ( 24:27).
Theme 2:( 25-32):): Pride and self reliance and the neglect of the Lord results in punishment. The Lord pronounced judgment against Amon (25:1-7), Moab ( 25:8-12) , Edom ( 25:13-14) and Philistia ( 25:15-17). After each of the judgments , Ezekiel noted that after experiencing the Lord's wrath they would know that the Lord is God of all ( 25: 7, 11, 14 &17). Tyre is judged for its pride ( 26-28) and the Phoenicians are told that they will not be a nation ( 26:21). The oracles against Egypt ( 29-32) , note that being proud and equating one self as equal to the Lord would be judged. ( 29:11-16, 30:26 & 31:10-11).
Theme 3: ( 33-48): The Lord's restoration and giving hope to his people Israel. The Lord appointed Ezekiel as a watchman over his people , to bring them to repentance and allow them to return to him. (33). The Lord promised them that they would again be known as his people. ( 34:29). He promised to restore the nation, to what it was before the exile ( 36:10-11). The Lord again will restore the covenant promising to give them new hearts. ( 37:24-28). The surrounding nations are judged for warring against Israel ( 38: 1-7) and the Lord again promised to restore the nation. ( 39:25-29). Chapters 40-48 described the Temple worship being restored and emphasized the theme of renewing the nation's relationship with the Lord. Thus the central theme of the book is restoration
Ezekiel portrayed the coming siege of Jerusalem for disobeying the covenant. (4). He was told by God to preach a judgment of pestilence against the city for disobedience (5) and preached another message of judgment for their idolatry. (6). He preached against trusting in their wealth for salvation (7) and pronounced further judgment for their disobedience. (8-9). The Temple had lost the Lord's presence and was now a place of idols , Ezekiel told them, (10-11). He brought further warning against the nation focusing on their leaders (12), prophets and teachers (13) , idols (14-16) , military ( 17) and social justice and integrity ( 18-19). The end result being that they lost the Lord's blessing (20) and were judged and disciplined . (21: 1-17). The cause of the exile that has occurred is disobedience to the Lord and his covenant. ( 22:1-6). Forgetting the Lord results in judgment ( 23:46-49) and through this judgment the people of Israel would know that the Lord alone was God. ( 24:27).
Theme 2:( 25-32):): Pride and self reliance and the neglect of the Lord results in punishment. The Lord pronounced judgment against Amon (25:1-7), Moab ( 25:8-12) , Edom ( 25:13-14) and Philistia ( 25:15-17). After each of the judgments , Ezekiel noted that after experiencing the Lord's wrath they would know that the Lord is God of all ( 25: 7, 11, 14 &17). Tyre is judged for its pride ( 26-28) and the Phoenicians are told that they will not be a nation ( 26:21). The oracles against Egypt ( 29-32) , note that being proud and equating one self as equal to the Lord would be judged. ( 29:11-16, 30:26 & 31:10-11).
Theme 3: ( 33-48): The Lord's restoration and giving hope to his people Israel. The Lord appointed Ezekiel as a watchman over his people , to bring them to repentance and allow them to return to him. (33). The Lord promised them that they would again be known as his people. ( 34:29). He promised to restore the nation, to what it was before the exile ( 36:10-11). The Lord again will restore the covenant promising to give them new hearts. ( 37:24-28). The surrounding nations are judged for warring against Israel ( 38: 1-7) and the Lord again promised to restore the nation. ( 39:25-29). Chapters 40-48 described the Temple worship being restored and emphasized the theme of renewing the nation's relationship with the Lord. Thus the central theme of the book is restoration
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
1 John
Theme 1: Christ has forgiven our sins and allowed us fellowship with God our Father. Christ is the one who reveals the Father who is light and who has no darkness or sin. ( 1:5-6). When we confess our sins to Christ they are forgiven and we are cleansed from unrighteousness. ( 1 John 1:9). It is through beliving in Christ and his message that we gain eternal life with Jesus. ( 5:1-11). As we abide with Jesus we gain a greater understanding of him. ( 5:18-20).
Theme 2: Christians need to be on guard against deception and to test each spirit. The devil and the coming anti Christ , seek to deceive believers and lead them away from faith in Christ. ( 2 : 19). Believers must test each message they recieve and see if the message agrees with the Bible. All messages which contradict the Bible are not from the Lord. ( 4:1-3).
Theme 3: Loving others is a quality and command believers are to follow. Through our love for others , we express our love for Christ. ( 2:3-10). As followers of Christ , our attitudes are changed. ( 3:4-8). Loving others through word and deed is an expression of our love for Jesus ( 3:18-24) and we cannot love him without loving others. ( 4:16-21).
Theme 2: Christians need to be on guard against deception and to test each spirit. The devil and the coming anti Christ , seek to deceive believers and lead them away from faith in Christ. ( 2 : 19). Believers must test each message they recieve and see if the message agrees with the Bible. All messages which contradict the Bible are not from the Lord. ( 4:1-3).
Theme 3: Loving others is a quality and command believers are to follow. Through our love for others , we express our love for Christ. ( 2:3-10). As followers of Christ , our attitudes are changed. ( 3:4-8). Loving others through word and deed is an expression of our love for Jesus ( 3:18-24) and we cannot love him without loving others. ( 4:16-21).
Lamentations
Theme 1: Disobedience and rebellion against the Lord results in judgement. Jeremiah noted that as a result of their disobedience , Jerusalem was mocked and dispised among the nations. ( 1:8). Their rebellion against the Lord's commands resulted in judgement(1:18) and through compromising on their worship practices , they were punished (2:22). The Lord disciplined them to correct them and to bring them back to himself. (3:1-3).
Theme 2: The Lord will restore those whom he has disciplined and judged. Jehovah in his mercy , loves each person and does not want to punish people without reason but seeks to correct us. ( 3:21-33). The Lord's intention of the exile is to draw the nation back to the relationship they had with him before. ( 5:21).
Theme 2: The Lord will restore those whom he has disciplined and judged. Jehovah in his mercy , loves each person and does not want to punish people without reason but seeks to correct us. ( 3:21-33). The Lord's intention of the exile is to draw the nation back to the relationship they had with him before. ( 5:21).
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Jeremiah
Theme 1: (1-11): The Lord desires us to trust in him and to follow his guidance. We need to honor and worship him and repent of our sins. Jeremiah was told by God that he had called him before he was born to be a prophet to the nations (1:5) and that he would equip him , making him like a fortified city. He was told that he would prevail against all the priests and kings who tried to oppose him. ( 1:17-19). Jeremiah was told that the people of Judah had abadoned the covenant and was seeking after other gods having forgotten her first love.(2:1-12). Jeremiah told the people that they must not seek out other things to replace the Lord. ( 3:1-5). Repetance is critical and we must confess our sins and turn back to the Lord. ( 4:1-6). We need to change our attitude and not lust after more but be content with what the Lord has provided. ( 5:7-8). Going through the ritual of worship is not enough for our sins will be remembered by the Lord. ( 6:11-20). The Lord stated that he would withold judgement from the nation of Judah if they repented. ( 7:1-7). The things that we trust in other than God will not be able to help in our time of trouble. (8:1-3). Our refusal to acknowledge the Lord brings us judgement and destruction. ( 9:1-11). In response to the Lord's goodness and sovereignty we need to repent and seek to be guided and corrected by him. ( 10:23-24). The Lord urged his people to remember the covenant he made with them when he delivered them from slavery in Egypt and to repent of their sins and trust in him. (11:1-9).
Theme 2:(12-21):The Lord is almighty and sovereign over all. We need to submit to his commands and honor him. Disloyalty to the Lord results in judgement and leads to destruction. (12:7-13). Our disobedience and disloyalty to the Lord result in good things from him becoming spoiled. ( 13:1-11). In his sovereignty he chose who would proclaim his message and judged false prophets who prophesied messages of prosperity in his name. (14:13-16). The Lord stated that those who chose to obey him and sacrificed their children to Molech would be judged (15:1-4), but those who sought after him would be restored and saved from harm( 15:19-20). The judgement of the Lord is meant to cause people to see his power and make them repent of their sins and turn to the Lord. ( 16:21). Those who honour the Lord and keep his Sabbath will be blessed. (17:19-27). We need to submit to the Lord's authority and allow him to shape us into the people he desires us to be. (18:1-12). Jeremiah gathered the people outside the city of Jerusalem in the Hinon Valley and smashed a pot stating that if they continued to disobey the Lord the nation would be smashed like a pot. (19:1-13). The Lord punishes those in authority as an example for others to repent and turn to him and change their ways. ( 20:1-6). The Lord always gives us a choice to submit to him , for those who surrendered and submitted to the Bablyonians were spared. ( 21:8-10).
Theme 3:(22-31):The Lord plans to restore the broken relationship we have with him.We must turn to him and change our ways. The nations of Judah and Israel's disobedience to the Lord and forgetting his covenant resulted in judgement and this was to be a sign to the nations that disobedience to the Lord would be judged. (22:8-10). The Lord desires to bring people back to himself and thus he planned to send Christ to reedem them.(23:1-18). The Lord used the difficulty of being in exile to draw the people closer to himself ( 24). The Lord is faithful to care out his promise of restoration as he promised to restore them after an exile of 70 years. Thus he is faithful to his covenant. ( 25: 12-13, Deuteronomy 28:64-68). From the story of Jeremiah being spared from the angry mob who sought his life, I am reminded that the Lord is with us in difficult times. (26) The Lord in his mercy warned the people through Jeremiah to submit to the Bablyonians and thus avoid his judgement and wrath. ( 27). From the story of the false prophet Hanniah dying for his false prophecies I am reminded that the Lord is to be respected and revered , we cannot try and take his place. ( 28). The Lord allowed the people who were taken into exile in the intial conquest to flourish and thus showed them that if they were faithful to the covenant they would be blessed. ( 29). The Lord judged his people with the desire to restore the relationship he had with them. (30:1-12). The Lord promised to bless those who followed him and to strengthen the relationship he had with those who trusted in him. ( 31:33-34).
Theme 4: (32-42):The Lord is to be followed and his message is to be proclaimed at all times and in every situation even the difficult ones. The Lord is the one who will restore the relationship he has with us and guide us. ( 32:36-39). The Lord has a plan to change our situation and this plan involves change our attitude and pledging to follow him. ( 33:10-11). The Lord rebuked King Zedekiah and the nation of Judah for their resfusal to follow him . ( 34: 12-16). The Lord is pleased when like the Recabites we carefuly obey what has been commanded us by him. ( 35:18-19). From the story of King Jehoiakim burning the scroll of prophecy , I am reminded that the word of the Lord is not to be treated lightly. ( 36). From the story of Jeremiah being thrown into the well as punishment I am reminded that we will face stuggles when we follow the Lord. ( 37). The story of Jeremiah being released from prison reminds me that the Lord watches over those who follow him. ( 38). The Lord sends King Nebucadnezer to take some of the people into exile as judgment for disobedience but spared the life of an Ethiopian official in the court who obeyed him. (39). From Jeremiah being treated well by the offical of King Nebucadnezer I am reminded that the Lord is with those who trust in him. ( 40). I am reminded from the story of the inital conquest that trusting in the Lord is vital. ( 41-42).
Theme 5: (43-52): The Lord is sovereign and must be submitted to. He will carry out his promises and fulfill his prophetic judgements. Trusting in the Lord is important as the Lord promised to judge those who relied on the Eyptians rather than himself. (43-44). The Lord promised to spared Barauch , the scribe of Jeremiah as he was faithful to serve him. ( 45). From the prophetic judgement of the nations of the middle eastern world , I am reminded that the Lord is just as he judges all peoples who do not follow his commands. ( 46-51). From the story of the conquest of Jerusalem and the utter destruction of the Temple , I am reminded that the Lord in his sovereignty guides the events of the world. ( 52).
Theme 2:(12-21):The Lord is almighty and sovereign over all. We need to submit to his commands and honor him. Disloyalty to the Lord results in judgement and leads to destruction. (12:7-13). Our disobedience and disloyalty to the Lord result in good things from him becoming spoiled. ( 13:1-11). In his sovereignty he chose who would proclaim his message and judged false prophets who prophesied messages of prosperity in his name. (14:13-16). The Lord stated that those who chose to obey him and sacrificed their children to Molech would be judged (15:1-4), but those who sought after him would be restored and saved from harm( 15:19-20). The judgement of the Lord is meant to cause people to see his power and make them repent of their sins and turn to the Lord. ( 16:21). Those who honour the Lord and keep his Sabbath will be blessed. (17:19-27). We need to submit to the Lord's authority and allow him to shape us into the people he desires us to be. (18:1-12). Jeremiah gathered the people outside the city of Jerusalem in the Hinon Valley and smashed a pot stating that if they continued to disobey the Lord the nation would be smashed like a pot. (19:1-13). The Lord punishes those in authority as an example for others to repent and turn to him and change their ways. ( 20:1-6). The Lord always gives us a choice to submit to him , for those who surrendered and submitted to the Bablyonians were spared. ( 21:8-10).
Theme 3:(22-31):The Lord plans to restore the broken relationship we have with him.We must turn to him and change our ways. The nations of Judah and Israel's disobedience to the Lord and forgetting his covenant resulted in judgement and this was to be a sign to the nations that disobedience to the Lord would be judged. (22:8-10). The Lord desires to bring people back to himself and thus he planned to send Christ to reedem them.(23:1-18). The Lord used the difficulty of being in exile to draw the people closer to himself ( 24). The Lord is faithful to care out his promise of restoration as he promised to restore them after an exile of 70 years. Thus he is faithful to his covenant. ( 25: 12-13, Deuteronomy 28:64-68). From the story of Jeremiah being spared from the angry mob who sought his life, I am reminded that the Lord is with us in difficult times. (26) The Lord in his mercy warned the people through Jeremiah to submit to the Bablyonians and thus avoid his judgement and wrath. ( 27). From the story of the false prophet Hanniah dying for his false prophecies I am reminded that the Lord is to be respected and revered , we cannot try and take his place. ( 28). The Lord allowed the people who were taken into exile in the intial conquest to flourish and thus showed them that if they were faithful to the covenant they would be blessed. ( 29). The Lord judged his people with the desire to restore the relationship he had with them. (30:1-12). The Lord promised to bless those who followed him and to strengthen the relationship he had with those who trusted in him. ( 31:33-34).
Theme 4: (32-42):The Lord is to be followed and his message is to be proclaimed at all times and in every situation even the difficult ones. The Lord is the one who will restore the relationship he has with us and guide us. ( 32:36-39). The Lord has a plan to change our situation and this plan involves change our attitude and pledging to follow him. ( 33:10-11). The Lord rebuked King Zedekiah and the nation of Judah for their resfusal to follow him . ( 34: 12-16). The Lord is pleased when like the Recabites we carefuly obey what has been commanded us by him. ( 35:18-19). From the story of King Jehoiakim burning the scroll of prophecy , I am reminded that the word of the Lord is not to be treated lightly. ( 36). From the story of Jeremiah being thrown into the well as punishment I am reminded that we will face stuggles when we follow the Lord. ( 37). The story of Jeremiah being released from prison reminds me that the Lord watches over those who follow him. ( 38). The Lord sends King Nebucadnezer to take some of the people into exile as judgment for disobedience but spared the life of an Ethiopian official in the court who obeyed him. (39). From Jeremiah being treated well by the offical of King Nebucadnezer I am reminded that the Lord is with those who trust in him. ( 40). I am reminded from the story of the inital conquest that trusting in the Lord is vital. ( 41-42).
Theme 5: (43-52): The Lord is sovereign and must be submitted to. He will carry out his promises and fulfill his prophetic judgements. Trusting in the Lord is important as the Lord promised to judge those who relied on the Eyptians rather than himself. (43-44). The Lord promised to spared Barauch , the scribe of Jeremiah as he was faithful to serve him. ( 45). From the prophetic judgement of the nations of the middle eastern world , I am reminded that the Lord is just as he judges all peoples who do not follow his commands. ( 46-51). From the story of the conquest of Jerusalem and the utter destruction of the Temple , I am reminded that the Lord in his sovereignty guides the events of the world. ( 52).
Saturday, June 20, 2009
2 Peter
Theme 1: Believers are changed people through whom the love of Christ flows.Peter stated that if goodness,knowledge, self control, godliness, affection and love abounded they would grow in Christ. (1:1-10). He warned them to keep on following Christ and not to become misled by myths and fables that were contrary to Christ's teaching. ( 1:11-20). He also warned them not to forsake Christ and the love he gave them , turning from the Lord's truth to seek false prophets for they would be judged and punished.( 2:1-10).
Theme 2: Believers must trust in the Lord and not become discouraged for he is not slow in keeping his promises. A day for the Lord is like a thousand years and we must patiently await Christ ( 3:1-10) and grow in his character. ( 3:11-18).
Theme 2: Believers must trust in the Lord and not become discouraged for he is not slow in keeping his promises. A day for the Lord is like a thousand years and we must patiently await Christ ( 3:1-10) and grow in his character. ( 3:11-18).
Isaiah
Theme 1 : (1-10): The Lord judges and disciplines those whom he has a friendship with to make them closer to himself. Isaiah noted that the Lord had been merciful to Israel choosing not to judge the nation like he did Sodom and Gomorah (1:2-9). The Lord works through difficult circumstances to make those who seek him more godly and to strengthen his relationship with us. ( 1:21-31). The Lord will judge those who take advantage of others and do not obey his commands to care for other people. ( 3: 13-17). The Lord in his mercy does not punish the entire nation of Israel but spares a remenant. ( 4:2-4). The Lord uses various experiences to guide and direct us and to allow us to grow closer to him ( 5:26-30) , in order to give us a desire to seek and serve him( 6). The Lord foretold his plan to save the world through Jesus in advance (7:14-16) and promised to save all people from their sin and allow them to come and know him (9:6-7). Even in his judgement the Lord promised to restore his relationship with the nation of Judah during the exile. ( 10:20-34).
Theme 2: (11-20): The Lord is to be thanked for his goodness as he allows all people the opportunity to change their ways and trust in him. A key characteristic of the Kingdom or reign of God is the abundance of peace and righteousness. ( 11:1-10). The Lord is to be thanked for the salvation he gives to the nations. (12:1-2). The Lord planned to redeem the nations of Israel and Judah (14:1-3) and to discipline those who disobey his commands. ( 16: 6-7). Although he disciplines people , the Lord uses this to draw people back to himself and to bless the nations. (17:1-9). Those who trust in things other than the Lord will face judgement (19:10) and those who attempt to control everything in their life will be frusturated for the Lord is sovereign over all.( 20).
Theme 3: 21-30: The Lord is in control of all and those who trust in him will be secure. Chapters 21-30 contain prophetic judgements against various nations for refusing to obey the Lord and his commands.
Theme 4: 31-40: The Lord in his sovereignty works through human history to accomplish his plans for the world. Isiah 31 warns the nation of Judah against trusting in Egypt rather than the Lord. Isiah 32 speaks of the kingdom of God which will be characterized by righteousness. (17). Isiah 33 speaks of the restoration of Jerusalem as the place where the Lord dwells and as a place of salvation and wisdom. Isiah 34 contains judgements against the nations for not obeying the Lord. ( 16-17). Isiah 35 tells of the goodness of the Lord in restoring his people to their land with joy (35:10). The deliverance of Judah from Assryia by the Lord is an example of his sovereignty. ( 36&37). The Lord showed his mercy by choosing to heal King Hezekiah ( 38) and his sovereignty is shown when he rebuked Hezekiah for boasting of his riches to the envoys from Babylon telling him of the forecoming conquest of Judah by Babylon.(39). The goodness of the Lord in responding to his people and caring for them is also noted. ( 40:39-41).
Theme 5: 41-50 : Salvation from the Lord is avaliable to all but in order to receive it we must repent and change our ways. The Lord promised to be with and to restore Judah (41:10) but urged them to follow the Lord and repent of their ways , so they might be a light to the nations.(42:6). The Lord promised to restore and provide for his people following the exile.(43: 18-19). The Lord is the one through whom restoration is possible ( 45:18-22)and his salvation is readily avaliable to all who seek it. ( 46:9-13). The Lord will judge all who seek things other than himself ( 47:12-15) , but will use the exile to teach and guide his people in goodness , allowing us to be blessed. ( 48:17-19). In his love he calls us back to him when we wander away from him. ( 49: 14-21) and saves and supports us through life's events. ( 50: 1-7).
Theme 6: 51-60: Obedience and sincerity in desiring to know Christ are key qualities for growing in our relationship with and serving him. All who trust in the Lord will be filled with joy. ( 51: 1-4). The Lord sent Christ to redeem us from our sins and bring us back to him. ( 52:13-15, 53:5-8). He promised to work through Israel and Judah after restoring them( 54:1-9) by allowing them to be a witness to all the nations, who he would call to himself. ( 55:4-6). Happiness is avaliable to all people who seek the Lord. ( 56:1-8) and his salvation is universal. ( 57: 16-21). The Lord promised to redeem Jerusalem ( Zion) and all people who repented and changed their ways. ( 59:20, 60:1-11).
Theme 7:61-66: The Lord plans a new world in which we will emulate the Lord becoming more godly , through Jesus Christ. The Lord's righteousness will spread through Christ's ministry of liberty (61: 9-11). The Lord will not forsake Israel (62: 7-12) and will restore them to himself. (63:13-19). The new world, the Lord will establish will be one in which peace abounds.( 65:18-24). The Lord has a new world planned in which all people will seek him. (66:23).
Theme 2: (11-20): The Lord is to be thanked for his goodness as he allows all people the opportunity to change their ways and trust in him. A key characteristic of the Kingdom or reign of God is the abundance of peace and righteousness. ( 11:1-10). The Lord is to be thanked for the salvation he gives to the nations. (12:1-2). The Lord planned to redeem the nations of Israel and Judah (14:1-3) and to discipline those who disobey his commands. ( 16: 6-7). Although he disciplines people , the Lord uses this to draw people back to himself and to bless the nations. (17:1-9). Those who trust in things other than the Lord will face judgement (19:10) and those who attempt to control everything in their life will be frusturated for the Lord is sovereign over all.( 20).
Theme 3: 21-30: The Lord is in control of all and those who trust in him will be secure. Chapters 21-30 contain prophetic judgements against various nations for refusing to obey the Lord and his commands.
Theme 4: 31-40: The Lord in his sovereignty works through human history to accomplish his plans for the world. Isiah 31 warns the nation of Judah against trusting in Egypt rather than the Lord. Isiah 32 speaks of the kingdom of God which will be characterized by righteousness. (17). Isiah 33 speaks of the restoration of Jerusalem as the place where the Lord dwells and as a place of salvation and wisdom. Isiah 34 contains judgements against the nations for not obeying the Lord. ( 16-17). Isiah 35 tells of the goodness of the Lord in restoring his people to their land with joy (35:10). The deliverance of Judah from Assryia by the Lord is an example of his sovereignty. ( 36&37). The Lord showed his mercy by choosing to heal King Hezekiah ( 38) and his sovereignty is shown when he rebuked Hezekiah for boasting of his riches to the envoys from Babylon telling him of the forecoming conquest of Judah by Babylon.(39). The goodness of the Lord in responding to his people and caring for them is also noted. ( 40:39-41).
Theme 5: 41-50 : Salvation from the Lord is avaliable to all but in order to receive it we must repent and change our ways. The Lord promised to be with and to restore Judah (41:10) but urged them to follow the Lord and repent of their ways , so they might be a light to the nations.(42:6). The Lord promised to restore and provide for his people following the exile.(43: 18-19). The Lord is the one through whom restoration is possible ( 45:18-22)and his salvation is readily avaliable to all who seek it. ( 46:9-13). The Lord will judge all who seek things other than himself ( 47:12-15) , but will use the exile to teach and guide his people in goodness , allowing us to be blessed. ( 48:17-19). In his love he calls us back to him when we wander away from him. ( 49: 14-21) and saves and supports us through life's events. ( 50: 1-7).
Theme 6: 51-60: Obedience and sincerity in desiring to know Christ are key qualities for growing in our relationship with and serving him. All who trust in the Lord will be filled with joy. ( 51: 1-4). The Lord sent Christ to redeem us from our sins and bring us back to him. ( 52:13-15, 53:5-8). He promised to work through Israel and Judah after restoring them( 54:1-9) by allowing them to be a witness to all the nations, who he would call to himself. ( 55:4-6). Happiness is avaliable to all people who seek the Lord. ( 56:1-8) and his salvation is universal. ( 57: 16-21). The Lord promised to redeem Jerusalem ( Zion) and all people who repented and changed their ways. ( 59:20, 60:1-11).
Theme 7:61-66: The Lord plans a new world in which we will emulate the Lord becoming more godly , through Jesus Christ. The Lord's righteousness will spread through Christ's ministry of liberty (61: 9-11). The Lord will not forsake Israel (62: 7-12) and will restore them to himself. (63:13-19). The new world, the Lord will establish will be one in which peace abounds.( 65:18-24). The Lord has a new world planned in which all people will seek him. (66:23).
Saturday, June 6, 2009
I Peter
Theme 1: (1-2): Trials and difficult circumstances are used by the Lord to make us more like Christ and to strengthen our faith in the Lord. Peter told the believers that they should rejoice in trials as they resulted in their faith being tested and that through this testing they would be found worthy of praise and glory when Christ came for them. He commended them for having faith in Christ though they had not seen him and encouraged them to keep growing in their knowledge of Jesus. (1:6-9). Peter also told them that they needed to be ready for action and to discipline their mind by focusing it on Christ Jesus and his return(1:13).
Peter noted that struggles were a way of Christ working in them , transforming their hearts and allowing the love of Christ to flow through them. ( 1:22-23). Christ used all of his followers for his purpose and we become part of his household when we submit to him. ( 2:1-5). Peter told the Christian Jews scatttered around the Roman Empire that they were to live holy lives which were different than the world , becoming ridiculed for the Lord and being witnesses to him through their lives. ( 2: 11-12). Peter urged slaves to obey their masters noting that in doing so they should emulate Christ's example of suffering and trusting the Lord while doing so. ( 2:13-25).
Theme 2: (3-5): Christ's followers must love each other and be united through the love of Christ flowing through their lives. Part of this process involves submitting to each other in love. Wives are required to submit to their Husbands and Husbands must love their wives and be considerate to them. ( 3:1-7). Part of this love involves being ready to share the hope of Christ's salvation with others in a gentle and respectful way and with good conscience and conduct. ( 3:15-16). Peter urged the believers to discipline themselves through prayer and to use their gifts to serve each other for in doing so they glorified the Lord. ( 4:7-11). Part of following the Lord in love means being ready to follow him and to suffer for being obedient to his commands. ( 4:12-19). Peter told the Church leaders that they needed to humble themselves and not to use their authority to boss people around but to serve others. ( 5:1-6).
Peter noted that struggles were a way of Christ working in them , transforming their hearts and allowing the love of Christ to flow through them. ( 1:22-23). Christ used all of his followers for his purpose and we become part of his household when we submit to him. ( 2:1-5). Peter told the Christian Jews scatttered around the Roman Empire that they were to live holy lives which were different than the world , becoming ridiculed for the Lord and being witnesses to him through their lives. ( 2: 11-12). Peter urged slaves to obey their masters noting that in doing so they should emulate Christ's example of suffering and trusting the Lord while doing so. ( 2:13-25).
Theme 2: (3-5): Christ's followers must love each other and be united through the love of Christ flowing through their lives. Part of this process involves submitting to each other in love. Wives are required to submit to their Husbands and Husbands must love their wives and be considerate to them. ( 3:1-7). Part of this love involves being ready to share the hope of Christ's salvation with others in a gentle and respectful way and with good conscience and conduct. ( 3:15-16). Peter urged the believers to discipline themselves through prayer and to use their gifts to serve each other for in doing so they glorified the Lord. ( 4:7-11). Part of following the Lord in love means being ready to follow him and to suffer for being obedient to his commands. ( 4:12-19). Peter told the Church leaders that they needed to humble themselves and not to use their authority to boss people around but to serve others. ( 5:1-6).
Song of Songs/Songs of Solomon
The insight that I gain from this book is that the Lord cares for us and longs to have a deep and meaningful relationship with each individual. He accepts all people and allows each person to enjoy his company (1:7).He brings those whom have come to him to a place of celebration showing them his love. (2:4). The Lord's love is to be cherished above all things(4:10) and his words to us are desirable and thoughtful. ( 5:16). It is the Lord's desire to have a restored relationship with each person(7:10) and the Lord makes haste to show his love to all.(8:14).
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
James
Theme 1: ( 1-2): Trials are a part of our journey with the Lord and are used for our good. We live out our faith through our actions. Trials produce faith and allow us to become more godly. ( 1:2-4). Christ promised to bless those who suffered for their faith in him. ( 1:12). A vital part of our faith is our actions and we must care for the needy( 1:22-27) and not show favortism to others. ( 2:1-8). Faith without any actions to back it up is dead. ( 2:14-26).
Theme 2: ( 3-5): Controlling our thoughts and actions is a crucial part of following the Lord. The tongue must be controlled for if it is not controlled it will cause catastrophe . ( 3:1-12). It is foolish to boast about our plans for the future as only God knows about it for he controls all events and circumstances. ( 4:13-17). One action that is important is trust as we must trust the Lord and be patient during difficult times. (5: 7-11). A second vital action to practice is prayer for it is powerful and effective. ( 5:12-18).
Theme 2: ( 3-5): Controlling our thoughts and actions is a crucial part of following the Lord. The tongue must be controlled for if it is not controlled it will cause catastrophe . ( 3:1-12). It is foolish to boast about our plans for the future as only God knows about it for he controls all events and circumstances. ( 4:13-17). One action that is important is trust as we must trust the Lord and be patient during difficult times. (5: 7-11). A second vital action to practice is prayer for it is powerful and effective. ( 5:12-18).
Hebrews
Theme 1: (1-5) : Christ reedemed us from the penalty of sin and acts as a mediator between Christians and the Lord. The Christian's response is to seek after the Lord and obey him. Christ defeated death when he arose from the grave paying the penalty for our sin ( 1:3). Christ acts as a High Priest bringing us into the presence of the Lord. ( 2:17-18). Christians can enter the presence of the Lord through Christ's sacrifice for our sins and be refreshed when we seek him. ( 4: 4-16). As believers our response is to follow the Lord and to become people who emulate the character of Christ( 5:11).
Theme 2: ( 6-10): Christ created a new covenant through his death and ressurection and part of this covenant involves believers proclaiming the gospel. Jesus made a way for us to come into the presence of the Lord. ( 6:19-20). Christ's atonement for our sin : is final for all people and for all eternity( 7:27), made the old system of atonement obsolete ( 8:6-7), allowed every person who sought forgiveness to seek after him and grow in the knowledge of him(9:28), Christ on the basis of the new covenant encourages and equips us by the Holy Sprit( 10:14) and allows us to boldly approach God ( 10:22-23).
Theme 3: (11-13): Faith is the cornerstone of our relationship with the Lord and allows us to go through trials. Faith involves trusting in the Lord and stepping out in boldness and allows us to serve the Lord and allows him to do marvelous things through us. ( 11:4-35). Difficult times of trial are used to discipline us and make us grow in the character of Christ. ( 12:11). Imitating Christ and trusting him is a crucial part of the Christian life and is an essiential part of walking with the Lord and becoming more like him. ( 13:7).
Theme 2: ( 6-10): Christ created a new covenant through his death and ressurection and part of this covenant involves believers proclaiming the gospel. Jesus made a way for us to come into the presence of the Lord. ( 6:19-20). Christ's atonement for our sin : is final for all people and for all eternity( 7:27), made the old system of atonement obsolete ( 8:6-7), allowed every person who sought forgiveness to seek after him and grow in the knowledge of him(9:28), Christ on the basis of the new covenant encourages and equips us by the Holy Sprit( 10:14) and allows us to boldly approach God ( 10:22-23).
Theme 3: (11-13): Faith is the cornerstone of our relationship with the Lord and allows us to go through trials. Faith involves trusting in the Lord and stepping out in boldness and allows us to serve the Lord and allows him to do marvelous things through us. ( 11:4-35). Difficult times of trial are used to discipline us and make us grow in the character of Christ. ( 12:11). Imitating Christ and trusting him is a crucial part of the Christian life and is an essiential part of walking with the Lord and becoming more like him. ( 13:7).
Proverbs
Theme 1: 1-11, Wisdom is based on seeking the Lord and in finding wisdom , a person is equipped to deal with the challenges of life and to avoid various pitfalls such as adultery and theft. Wisdom is based on respecting the Lord and showing reverence to him. (1:7). In seeking wisdom we please the Lord and he delivers the person who seeks wisdom from the pitfalls of sin.(2:1-15). The Lord's wisdom created the universe and is avaliable to all who seek it. (8:1-22). Seeking the guidance and wisdom of the Lord , being obedient to his commands and emulating his character brings security to a person's life. ( 10:27-29). Being a person of humility , integrity and obedience to the Lord's commands brings deliverance from the wrath of God against those who choose to disobey. ( 11:1-3).
Theme 2: 12-20: A vital part of wisdom is correctly applying it to one's life and being disciplined and self controlled in following the Lord's commands. Discipline is to be embraced as it provides knowledge. ( 12:1) and applying wisdom and living righteously brings satisfaction to a person's life. ( 13: 25). Seeking the Lord's wisdom and direction provides a refuge for us in difficult times. ( 18:10). Walking in the way of wisdom and living righteously provides happiness. ( 20:10).
Theme 3: ( 21-31): Wisdom involves making a choice of how to apply the knowledge we have to the situations we go through in life. Being a person of integrity who correctly applies wisdom is better than being rich. ( 22: 9). Fearing the Lord is the cornerstone of wisdom. ( 23:17). Part of wisdom involves submitting to those in authority ( 24:21)and watching what we say. ( 25: 11-12). We are not to add to the commands of the Lord for in doing so we will be punished. ( 30:6).
Theme 2: 12-20: A vital part of wisdom is correctly applying it to one's life and being disciplined and self controlled in following the Lord's commands. Discipline is to be embraced as it provides knowledge. ( 12:1) and applying wisdom and living righteously brings satisfaction to a person's life. ( 13: 25). Seeking the Lord's wisdom and direction provides a refuge for us in difficult times. ( 18:10). Walking in the way of wisdom and living righteously provides happiness. ( 20:10).
Theme 3: ( 21-31): Wisdom involves making a choice of how to apply the knowledge we have to the situations we go through in life. Being a person of integrity who correctly applies wisdom is better than being rich. ( 22: 9). Fearing the Lord is the cornerstone of wisdom. ( 23:17). Part of wisdom involves submitting to those in authority ( 24:21)and watching what we say. ( 25: 11-12). We are not to add to the commands of the Lord for in doing so we will be punished. ( 30:6).
Ecclessiates
Theme 1: Life is short and temporal and therefore we need to seek the Lord who is in control of all things. In serving and following the Lord's commands we gain wisdom. ( 2:26), satisfaction in our work ( 5:18) and prosperity in all that we do. (8:12).
Theme 2: God is in control of all things and must be honoured and obeyed. Seeking after him brings joy. God created order and a time and place for everything. ( 3:1-8). In respecting the Lord we need to watch our words and not be hasty in making promises we cannot keep.(5:1-6). Part of following the Lord is accepting the situations we face whether good or bad, knowing that he uses them for his purposes. (7:18).
Theme 2: God is in control of all things and must be honoured and obeyed. Seeking after him brings joy. God created order and a time and place for everything. ( 3:1-8). In respecting the Lord we need to watch our words and not be hasty in making promises we cannot keep.(5:1-6). Part of following the Lord is accepting the situations we face whether good or bad, knowing that he uses them for his purposes. (7:18).
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Philemon
Theme 1: Living out the goal of becoming more like Christ, involves encouraging fellow believers in their walk with Christ. Paul stated that he thanked God for he heard of Philemon's love for the saints and his faith in Christ. He stated that the saints had been refreshed by Philemon and that he was encouraged to hear a good report of what was happening in the Church.(1:4-7).
Theme 2: As Christians we need to care for others and to treat each person equally. Paul encouraged Philemon to take his run away slave Onesimus , as he was even more valuable to him as he was a brother in Christ. (1:8-12).
Theme 2: As Christians we need to care for others and to treat each person equally. Paul encouraged Philemon to take his run away slave Onesimus , as he was even more valuable to him as he was a brother in Christ. (1:8-12).
Psalms
As Pslams is a large book of poetry I have divided my reflections and insights by the 5 divisions of Psalms.
Book 1: 1-41: In Pslams 1-7, the theme or insight I gain is that the Lord is in control of everything and that he cares for us not letting us become overcome by destruction. In Psalms 8-14 I am reminded that the Lord is just and that he watches over those who fear him. In Psalms 15-21, I gain the insight that gratitude and thanksgiving to the Lord are required and that part of this gratitude is being obedient to the Lord's commands. In Pslams 22-28, I gain the insight that the Lord is avaliable to guide , protect and direct those who seek him. In Psalms 29-35 I gain the insight that the Lord is to be worshiped for he is in control of all things and deserves to be thanked for his goodness to all people. In Psalms 36-41, I gain the insight that an attitude of passionately seeking the Lord in obedience and worship results in satisfaction for a person.
Book 2: 42-72: In Pslams 42-50, I gain the insight that although the Lord is sovereign over all, he still desires us to have a relationship with him in which we can ask him for guidance , protection and provision. In Psalms 51-58, the insight I gain is that the Lord is in control of all circumstances and will work circumstances and events to our benefit when we submit to him. In Pslams 559-66, I gain the insight that although we face struggles , the Lord watches over the lives of the people who follow him, not allowing them to come to ruin. In Psalms 67-72, I gain the insight that the Lord is gracious and abudantly provides for our needs.
Book 3: 73-89: In Pslams 73-77, I gain the insight that gratitude and trusting in the Lord are a natural response to his goodness. The Lord deserves to be thanked for his provision and guidance to those who seek him. In Psalms 78-82, I gain the insight that following the Lord involves obeying him and emulating his character. In Psalms 83-89, I gain the insight that the Lord's love for us is constant and that he will not abandon us and is ready to restore his father like relationship with those who seek him.
Book 4: 90-106: The insight I gain in Pslams 90-94 is that the Lord is the ruler of all and as such we need to come before him with awe. In Psalms 95-99 I gain the insight that the Lord is fair and just in his role as King and that as such I must also be fair and just. In Psalms 100-106, I gain the insight that the merciful acts of the Lord are to be remembered and that thanksgiving and praise with joy are the approriate response to his goodness.
Book 5: 107-150 : In Psalms 107-113, I gain the insight that the Lord is to be praised and thanked continually for he deals with us mercifully and provides for us generously. In Psalms 114-120, I gain the insight that the Lord is full of love towards the whole human race and that those who seek a relationship with him, will experience his love and feel confident to approach him with thanksgiving and to bring their requests to him. In Psalms 121-127, I gain the insight that joyfully praising the Lord is a vital part of worship that must be done despite our feelings or circumstances. In Pslams 128-135, I gain the insight that we need to continually praise the Lord and spend time seeking his wisdom. In Psalms 136-142, I gain the insight that prayer is essential as the Lord desires us to speak with him and to rely on him for direction as we journey through life. From Pslams 143-150, I gain the insight that it is vital to praise the Lord with joy and to show gratitude and thanksgiving for all he has done.
Book 1: 1-41: In Pslams 1-7, the theme or insight I gain is that the Lord is in control of everything and that he cares for us not letting us become overcome by destruction. In Psalms 8-14 I am reminded that the Lord is just and that he watches over those who fear him. In Psalms 15-21, I gain the insight that gratitude and thanksgiving to the Lord are required and that part of this gratitude is being obedient to the Lord's commands. In Pslams 22-28, I gain the insight that the Lord is avaliable to guide , protect and direct those who seek him. In Psalms 29-35 I gain the insight that the Lord is to be worshiped for he is in control of all things and deserves to be thanked for his goodness to all people. In Psalms 36-41, I gain the insight that an attitude of passionately seeking the Lord in obedience and worship results in satisfaction for a person.
Book 2: 42-72: In Pslams 42-50, I gain the insight that although the Lord is sovereign over all, he still desires us to have a relationship with him in which we can ask him for guidance , protection and provision. In Psalms 51-58, the insight I gain is that the Lord is in control of all circumstances and will work circumstances and events to our benefit when we submit to him. In Pslams 559-66, I gain the insight that although we face struggles , the Lord watches over the lives of the people who follow him, not allowing them to come to ruin. In Psalms 67-72, I gain the insight that the Lord is gracious and abudantly provides for our needs.
Book 3: 73-89: In Pslams 73-77, I gain the insight that gratitude and trusting in the Lord are a natural response to his goodness. The Lord deserves to be thanked for his provision and guidance to those who seek him. In Psalms 78-82, I gain the insight that following the Lord involves obeying him and emulating his character. In Psalms 83-89, I gain the insight that the Lord's love for us is constant and that he will not abandon us and is ready to restore his father like relationship with those who seek him.
Book 4: 90-106: The insight I gain in Pslams 90-94 is that the Lord is the ruler of all and as such we need to come before him with awe. In Psalms 95-99 I gain the insight that the Lord is fair and just in his role as King and that as such I must also be fair and just. In Psalms 100-106, I gain the insight that the merciful acts of the Lord are to be remembered and that thanksgiving and praise with joy are the approriate response to his goodness.
Book 5: 107-150 : In Psalms 107-113, I gain the insight that the Lord is to be praised and thanked continually for he deals with us mercifully and provides for us generously. In Psalms 114-120, I gain the insight that the Lord is full of love towards the whole human race and that those who seek a relationship with him, will experience his love and feel confident to approach him with thanksgiving and to bring their requests to him. In Psalms 121-127, I gain the insight that joyfully praising the Lord is a vital part of worship that must be done despite our feelings or circumstances. In Pslams 128-135, I gain the insight that we need to continually praise the Lord and spend time seeking his wisdom. In Psalms 136-142, I gain the insight that prayer is essential as the Lord desires us to speak with him and to rely on him for direction as we journey through life. From Pslams 143-150, I gain the insight that it is vital to praise the Lord with joy and to show gratitude and thanksgiving for all he has done.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Titus
Theme 1 : Christians are to be godly people and to live lives different from the world which please Christ. Paul told Titus to appoint elders or pastors who were holy, lovers of goodness , devout and self controlled. (1:5-8). He told Titus that he was to teach believers to be godly and to emphasize self control. Paul instructed him to be a model of good works and in his teaching to show integrity(2:1-7). He told Titus that as believers waited for the coming of Christ they were to be godly for Christ had redeemed them to be set apart for him as a people zealous for good deeds. (2:14). Christians are to be obedient to those in authority, ready to do good, speaking ill of no one , avoiding quarrels and being gentle and courteous to all people. ( 3:1-2).
Theme 2: Christians need to be aware of the essentials of their faith and not be led astray from their purpose due to focusing on non essentials. Paul told Titus to appoint elders or pastors who had a grasp of the Scriptures , who were able to teach sound doctrine and to refute those who contradicted the gospel. ( 1:8-9). He also told Titus to rebuke those who taught what was wrong , allowing believers to grow strong in the faith and keeping them from myths. ( 1:11-14). In his closing words to Titus Paul encouraged Titus to avoid controversy over Jewish law and to shun a person who taught false doctrine after speaking to them twice and encouraging them to come back to the faith. (3:9-10). Thus it is crucial to focus on the Scripture and not modern ideas.
Theme 2: Christians need to be aware of the essentials of their faith and not be led astray from their purpose due to focusing on non essentials. Paul told Titus to appoint elders or pastors who had a grasp of the Scriptures , who were able to teach sound doctrine and to refute those who contradicted the gospel. ( 1:8-9). He also told Titus to rebuke those who taught what was wrong , allowing believers to grow strong in the faith and keeping them from myths. ( 1:11-14). In his closing words to Titus Paul encouraged Titus to avoid controversy over Jewish law and to shun a person who taught false doctrine after speaking to them twice and encouraging them to come back to the faith. (3:9-10). Thus it is crucial to focus on the Scripture and not modern ideas.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Job
Themes and Insights from Job
Theme 1 : ( 1-10) A relationship with the Lord involves trusting in him and committing to follow him, even in times of despair. Upon losing all of his wealth , Job stated that the Lord gave and the Lord had taken away and that his name was to be blessed. ( 1:20-21). Upon losing his health , Job continued to trust in the Lord and refused to curse him. (2:9-10). Job noted how his questioning why the Lord allowed circumstances to happen was common to people. (3:23-24). Job’s friend Eliphaz told him to remember the advice he had given to others in times of trial and to continue to have hope. ( 4:3-4). He also noted that the Lord was with those who faced affliction as he bond up their wounds.( 5:18-19). Through trusting in the Lord, an individual can ask for mercy from the Lord as Job did. ( 7:20). Job’s friend Bildad told him that the Lord heard his cries for mercy( 8:5-6) and that he would again restore joy and happiness. ( 8:22). Job admitted that he could not understand God’s ways( 9:1-12) and stated his belief that the Lord could again show mercy to him. (10:12).
Theme 2 : ( 11-20) Faith in the character of the Lord and in his mercy causes a person to persistently seek after God. Zophar told Job that through repentance his relationship with the Lord could be made new. ( 11:13-15). He also told him that the Lord dealt harshly with his priests and judged and disciplined them. So Job could also expect this. (12: 9). Job expressed faith in the justice and righteousness of the Lord stating that he wished to make his case before him as he knew the Lord would deal with him in mercy. (13:18-22). He further stated that he knew that God existed and that his redeemer would come upon hearing his plea. (19: 25). Zophar reminded Job that it was wise to seek after the Lord as those who did not trust in him and forsaked him would face his wrath. (20:26).
Theme 3: ( 21-31): God allows us to question his motives for events occurring in our life and we can do so without rejecting him outright. Job questioned why the wicked prospered as they did not seek the Lord. (21:15-17). He stated his desire to question God and to examine his motives for causing suffering (23: 3-5). He also questioned why those who sought God could not find him. (24: 1). His friend Bildad reminded Job that we can never understand the mind and motives of the Lord in allowing events to occur. (25: 1-4). Job noted that pain and sorrow were not outside the influence of the Lord as even hell submitted to him. ( 26:6). Job demonstrated that a person can question the Lord and still be a person of integrity who served the Lord. (27: 3-5). He noted that the Lord was the source of all wisdom and that wisdom was found in departing from our sin and seeking him. (28: 28). He sought the intimacy he had with the Lord in the past, longing for it. (29: 1-5). Job knew that there were times when the Lord was silent ( 30:20-21) and strived to be upright and pure for the Lord did not allow unholy people to come before him. (31:9-44).
Theme 4: (33-42): The Lord is great and above humanity and must be approached with reverence and we need to repent for our unbelief. Elihu noted that the Lord was above all people who were mortal and lived brief lives. (33:12-13). Each person will be judged for how they follow God‘s law and so we must act wisely. (34:23). The Lord needs nothing from us and we cannot do anything for him, for he has all things. (35: 6-8). God is to be worshipped and adored for he created the universe. (36:24-33). The Lord does wondrous things beyond our comprehension. (37:15). He is all knowing as his knowledge is beyond time. (38:4-7). The Lord is in control of all events that happen in the universe. (39: 5-9). He is in control of every aspect of the universe and his knowledge is above humanity’s. ( 40-41). Job’s response of repentance for speaking out about what he does not understand is to be our response when we question the Lord. (42: 2-6).
Theme 1 : ( 1-10) A relationship with the Lord involves trusting in him and committing to follow him, even in times of despair. Upon losing all of his wealth , Job stated that the Lord gave and the Lord had taken away and that his name was to be blessed. ( 1:20-21). Upon losing his health , Job continued to trust in the Lord and refused to curse him. (2:9-10). Job noted how his questioning why the Lord allowed circumstances to happen was common to people. (3:23-24). Job’s friend Eliphaz told him to remember the advice he had given to others in times of trial and to continue to have hope. ( 4:3-4). He also noted that the Lord was with those who faced affliction as he bond up their wounds.( 5:18-19). Through trusting in the Lord, an individual can ask for mercy from the Lord as Job did. ( 7:20). Job’s friend Bildad told him that the Lord heard his cries for mercy( 8:5-6) and that he would again restore joy and happiness. ( 8:22). Job admitted that he could not understand God’s ways( 9:1-12) and stated his belief that the Lord could again show mercy to him. (10:12).
Theme 2 : ( 11-20) Faith in the character of the Lord and in his mercy causes a person to persistently seek after God. Zophar told Job that through repentance his relationship with the Lord could be made new. ( 11:13-15). He also told him that the Lord dealt harshly with his priests and judged and disciplined them. So Job could also expect this. (12: 9). Job expressed faith in the justice and righteousness of the Lord stating that he wished to make his case before him as he knew the Lord would deal with him in mercy. (13:18-22). He further stated that he knew that God existed and that his redeemer would come upon hearing his plea. (19: 25). Zophar reminded Job that it was wise to seek after the Lord as those who did not trust in him and forsaked him would face his wrath. (20:26).
Theme 3: ( 21-31): God allows us to question his motives for events occurring in our life and we can do so without rejecting him outright. Job questioned why the wicked prospered as they did not seek the Lord. (21:15-17). He stated his desire to question God and to examine his motives for causing suffering (23: 3-5). He also questioned why those who sought God could not find him. (24: 1). His friend Bildad reminded Job that we can never understand the mind and motives of the Lord in allowing events to occur. (25: 1-4). Job noted that pain and sorrow were not outside the influence of the Lord as even hell submitted to him. ( 26:6). Job demonstrated that a person can question the Lord and still be a person of integrity who served the Lord. (27: 3-5). He noted that the Lord was the source of all wisdom and that wisdom was found in departing from our sin and seeking him. (28: 28). He sought the intimacy he had with the Lord in the past, longing for it. (29: 1-5). Job knew that there were times when the Lord was silent ( 30:20-21) and strived to be upright and pure for the Lord did not allow unholy people to come before him. (31:9-44).
Theme 4: (33-42): The Lord is great and above humanity and must be approached with reverence and we need to repent for our unbelief. Elihu noted that the Lord was above all people who were mortal and lived brief lives. (33:12-13). Each person will be judged for how they follow God‘s law and so we must act wisely. (34:23). The Lord needs nothing from us and we cannot do anything for him, for he has all things. (35: 6-8). God is to be worshipped and adored for he created the universe. (36:24-33). The Lord does wondrous things beyond our comprehension. (37:15). He is all knowing as his knowledge is beyond time. (38:4-7). The Lord is in control of all events that happen in the universe. (39: 5-9). He is in control of every aspect of the universe and his knowledge is above humanity’s. ( 40-41). Job’s response of repentance for speaking out about what he does not understand is to be our response when we question the Lord. (42: 2-6).
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
2 Timothy
Themes Insights 2 Timothy
Theme 1: The gospel gives us hope as the Holy Spirit works in our lives making us bold in sharing the word of salvation and giving us an understanding of the Bible. Paul did not despair that he was in prison but told Timothy that his imprisonment was for the sake of the gospel and involved relying on the power of God who had saved them through Christ for his purpose and grace. (1:8-9). Paul noted how the gospel was the central theme of the Christian faith and how following Christ involved identifying with him as we surrendered our lives to him. ( 2:8-14). He also stated that the Scripture was the inspired word of God and was useful for training in godliness and helped us be prepared to do the work God has for us. ( 3:16-17). Paul exhorted Timothy that Christians were supposed to preach the gospel whether it was popular or not and to be prepared to suffer for the Lord’s sake to do so.( 4:1-5).
Theme 2: Christians are to be godly and faithfully obey the Lord. Part of doing this involves guarding the Word of God in our minds with the help of the Holy Spirit and holding on to the sound teaching of faith in Christ Jesus. ( 1:13-14). Paul used the metaphors of soldiers and famers diligently working hard and following orders or directions to note that faith involved discipline and that discipline was part of the process of becoming more godly and Christ like. (2: 1-7). Our focus is to be on Christ and we must avoid that which leads people away from Christ. ( 2:15-19). Through keeping pure and confessing our sin , we become special tools used by the Lord who are ready to do the good works he has given us to do. (2:20-21).
Theme 1: The gospel gives us hope as the Holy Spirit works in our lives making us bold in sharing the word of salvation and giving us an understanding of the Bible. Paul did not despair that he was in prison but told Timothy that his imprisonment was for the sake of the gospel and involved relying on the power of God who had saved them through Christ for his purpose and grace. (1:8-9). Paul noted how the gospel was the central theme of the Christian faith and how following Christ involved identifying with him as we surrendered our lives to him. ( 2:8-14). He also stated that the Scripture was the inspired word of God and was useful for training in godliness and helped us be prepared to do the work God has for us. ( 3:16-17). Paul exhorted Timothy that Christians were supposed to preach the gospel whether it was popular or not and to be prepared to suffer for the Lord’s sake to do so.( 4:1-5).
Theme 2: Christians are to be godly and faithfully obey the Lord. Part of doing this involves guarding the Word of God in our minds with the help of the Holy Spirit and holding on to the sound teaching of faith in Christ Jesus. ( 1:13-14). Paul used the metaphors of soldiers and famers diligently working hard and following orders or directions to note that faith involved discipline and that discipline was part of the process of becoming more godly and Christ like. (2: 1-7). Our focus is to be on Christ and we must avoid that which leads people away from Christ. ( 2:15-19). Through keeping pure and confessing our sin , we become special tools used by the Lord who are ready to do the good works he has given us to do. (2:20-21).
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Esther
Theme 1 : (1-3) The Lord has put in motion all authority in the world and he is with those who follow him , being obedient to his commands and seeking after him. From King Xerxes lavish banquet in which he shows of all his wealth to his nobles and governing officials and his desire to show off Queen Vashti , I am reminded that God did appoint men to have leadership in the household. ( Esther 1: ,) but I am also reminded that women have dignity and thus Vashti was right to refuse him. From the story of Esther being chosen as Queen from among all the women of the empire , I am reminded that those who seek after the Lord will prosper as both Mordecai and Esther did so. ( Esther 2). From the story of Mordecai refusing to bow down and worship Haman as a god I am reminded that the Lord respects those who respect him and that the evil unchecked in a person’s life leads to pride growing immense. (Esther 3).
Theme 2 : (4-7) : Worship and seeking the Lord through prayer , spiritual disciplines like fasting and periods of intense pleading our ways in which we can influence our world as we pray into the Lord’s purposes. From the fasting for 7 days among all the Jews in Susa ( Esther 4) , I am reminded that worship involves times of solemnest in which believers pray prayers of interceding or praying on behalf of other people. I am also reminded that the words of Mordecai are correct as the Lord does place people in places of authority for his times and purposes.( 4:13-14) and that Esther’s brave response of having her people pray for her before she risked her life by entering the King ‘s presence was godly.( 4 :15-16). From the story of Esther gaining immense favor in King Xerxes’s eyes as he offered her half of his kingdom ( 5 : 3) , I am reminded that in faith we can take our requests to the Lord and trust him to act on our behalf. From the story of King Xerxes , reading his royal record and discovering Mordecai’s faithfulness in preventing an assaination attempt ( 6:1-3 ) and Haman upon coming into his presence seeking his own agenda and believing the King intends to delight and honor him , I am reminded that the Lord will oppose the proud individuals who seek to exalt themselves. Haman ended up instead honoring Mordecai. ( 6: 6-11). From Esther’s plea for her own life and that of the Jewish people and Haman’s facing death on the gallows he had built for Mordecai ( 7), I gain 2 insights about prayer and petition. The first is that the Lord avenges evil and listens to the prayers of those who seek him as he allowed Haman who in his pride desired to destroy the Jews as they did not worship him as a diety, to facing the humilitation of first giving to honor his enemy ( 6:6-11) and finally facing death on towering gallows he had intended for his enemy. ( 7:10).
Theme 3 : ( 8-10): The Lord always keeps the promises and agreements that he has made with his people and treats them as he told them he would through his prophets. From the stories of the Jews opposing in battle those who sought to destroy them throughout the Persian empire ( 8 : 1-9:16) , I am reminded that the Lord was faithful to his promises to be with those in exile as he told them to serve the king of the land of Babylon, in which they were living and promised them it would go well if they did so ( Jeremiah 42: 10-12 ) and his other prophecy that the exile would end after 70 years when the Lord used Cyrus the King of Persia and Media to free the Jews ( Jeremiah 25:12, Ezra 1:1) and how he kept the promise to Abraham to make his descendants into a great nation as numerous as the stars in the sky ( Genesis 15: 5) as the Jews were great in number. From the closing script of Esther which tells of Mordecai being made 2nd in command in the empire and of the good work he did ( Esther 10 : 1-3), I am reminded that those who act uprightly and trust in the Lord will be blessed by the Lord and used by him for his purposes.
Theme 2 : (4-7) : Worship and seeking the Lord through prayer , spiritual disciplines like fasting and periods of intense pleading our ways in which we can influence our world as we pray into the Lord’s purposes. From the fasting for 7 days among all the Jews in Susa ( Esther 4) , I am reminded that worship involves times of solemnest in which believers pray prayers of interceding or praying on behalf of other people. I am also reminded that the words of Mordecai are correct as the Lord does place people in places of authority for his times and purposes.( 4:13-14) and that Esther’s brave response of having her people pray for her before she risked her life by entering the King ‘s presence was godly.( 4 :15-16). From the story of Esther gaining immense favor in King Xerxes’s eyes as he offered her half of his kingdom ( 5 : 3) , I am reminded that in faith we can take our requests to the Lord and trust him to act on our behalf. From the story of King Xerxes , reading his royal record and discovering Mordecai’s faithfulness in preventing an assaination attempt ( 6:1-3 ) and Haman upon coming into his presence seeking his own agenda and believing the King intends to delight and honor him , I am reminded that the Lord will oppose the proud individuals who seek to exalt themselves. Haman ended up instead honoring Mordecai. ( 6: 6-11). From Esther’s plea for her own life and that of the Jewish people and Haman’s facing death on the gallows he had built for Mordecai ( 7), I gain 2 insights about prayer and petition. The first is that the Lord avenges evil and listens to the prayers of those who seek him as he allowed Haman who in his pride desired to destroy the Jews as they did not worship him as a diety, to facing the humilitation of first giving to honor his enemy ( 6:6-11) and finally facing death on towering gallows he had intended for his enemy. ( 7:10).
Theme 3 : ( 8-10): The Lord always keeps the promises and agreements that he has made with his people and treats them as he told them he would through his prophets. From the stories of the Jews opposing in battle those who sought to destroy them throughout the Persian empire ( 8 : 1-9:16) , I am reminded that the Lord was faithful to his promises to be with those in exile as he told them to serve the king of the land of Babylon, in which they were living and promised them it would go well if they did so ( Jeremiah 42: 10-12 ) and his other prophecy that the exile would end after 70 years when the Lord used Cyrus the King of Persia and Media to free the Jews ( Jeremiah 25:12, Ezra 1:1) and how he kept the promise to Abraham to make his descendants into a great nation as numerous as the stars in the sky ( Genesis 15: 5) as the Jews were great in number. From the closing script of Esther which tells of Mordecai being made 2nd in command in the empire and of the good work he did ( Esther 10 : 1-3), I am reminded that those who act uprightly and trust in the Lord will be blessed by the Lord and used by him for his purposes.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
1 Timothy
Themes and Insights from 1 Timothy
Theme 1: Those in authority and leadership are to set an example to others through holy living. In setting the tone for worship holiness is crucial , in addition to modesty , love and faith. (2:15). Self control in personal and family life is essential (3: 4-5) and leaders are to set an example of godly living that reflects the character of Christ. (3: 14-15). The Lord uses all people and anyone can be a leader despite their age so youth are not to be looked down upon. (4:12-16).
Theme 2: Christian living involves dealing with the world in a new way as our focus is on Christ Jesus. Paul warned Timothy to avoid controversy by not getting into myths and fables but to hold onto the teaching he had received about faith in Christ Jesus. ( 1:13-14). As Christians we are to pray for those in authority so that we are able to live lives of godliness in peace and quite with all godliness and dignity. ( 2:1-2). In the end times people will forsake the Lord and serve money and demons( 4:1-2), as followers of Christ we need to be different. Thus we have to focus on the teachings of Christ, abandon myths and fables and train ourselves in godly living. (4:7). those in leadership are to be pure and so elders and leaders should not be chosen hastily. (5:22).
Theme 3: Money is a source of temptation and should be dealt with wisely. Paul urged that the younger widows who could work not be given financial compensation and thus be prone to idleness and gossip. (5: 13). He also warned that in the end times people would become lovers of money, forsaking the Lord and serving money and demons. (4:1-2). He told Timothy to be on guard against money as it was a source of temptation (6:9). Paul went on to tell Timothy that money caused destruction and ruin, that it was the root of all kinds of evil and that in seeking to become rich , some had wandered away from Christ and harmed themselves. (6:16).
Theme 1: Those in authority and leadership are to set an example to others through holy living. In setting the tone for worship holiness is crucial , in addition to modesty , love and faith. (2:15). Self control in personal and family life is essential (3: 4-5) and leaders are to set an example of godly living that reflects the character of Christ. (3: 14-15). The Lord uses all people and anyone can be a leader despite their age so youth are not to be looked down upon. (4:12-16).
Theme 2: Christian living involves dealing with the world in a new way as our focus is on Christ Jesus. Paul warned Timothy to avoid controversy by not getting into myths and fables but to hold onto the teaching he had received about faith in Christ Jesus. ( 1:13-14). As Christians we are to pray for those in authority so that we are able to live lives of godliness in peace and quite with all godliness and dignity. ( 2:1-2). In the end times people will forsake the Lord and serve money and demons( 4:1-2), as followers of Christ we need to be different. Thus we have to focus on the teachings of Christ, abandon myths and fables and train ourselves in godly living. (4:7). those in leadership are to be pure and so elders and leaders should not be chosen hastily. (5:22).
Theme 3: Money is a source of temptation and should be dealt with wisely. Paul urged that the younger widows who could work not be given financial compensation and thus be prone to idleness and gossip. (5: 13). He also warned that in the end times people would become lovers of money, forsaking the Lord and serving money and demons. (4:1-2). He told Timothy to be on guard against money as it was a source of temptation (6:9). Paul went on to tell Timothy that money caused destruction and ruin, that it was the root of all kinds of evil and that in seeking to become rich , some had wandered away from Christ and harmed themselves. (6:16).
Nehemiah
Themes and Insights from Nehemiah
Theme 1: (1-4): Following the Lord involves repenting of one’s sin and trusting him for guidance. Nehemiah confessed the sin of his people, his household and his own personal sin. ( 1:6-7). He confronted his enemies who were opposing the rebuilding of the walls and the fortifying of the city , not allowing the plans to be compromised or delayed. (2: 19-20). From Nehemiah’s success and the success of those who worked at rebuilding the city , I am reminded that the Lord blesses the work of those who follow him ( 3: 28-32). Nehemiah overcame the plot of those who tried to kill those who worked on the wall by dividing them into groups and having men work with spears to protect the others. (4:15-18).
Theme 2: (5-8): The individual or individuals who are faithful to obey the Lord and are just will experience success and victory from the Lord as their work prospers. Nehemiah instructed the rich landowners, rebuking them and telling them to treat the people fairly. (5:9). He continued his task of reconstruction not giving into the opposition he faced (6: 1-14). As a result of this the Lord gave him success and the repairs were completed in only 52 days. (6: 15-16). Chapter 7 of Nehemiah recorded the details of the establishment of order in Jerusalem through having soldiers posted in the fortifications in the walls and the restoration of the Temple worship through the establishment of priests and Levites. The people heard the covenant read to them by Ezra (8:1-4) and later commit themselves to it by observing the ceremonies God had given them by celebrating the Festival of Booths in which they remembered the Lord’s faithfulness to them in the desert. (8:13-18).
Theme 3: (9-13): The Lord is merciful and faithful to us and in reverence we must worship him and have times of celebration and thanksgiving for what he has done. Through the people repenting as a nation when they assembled as a people and were instructed by Ezra , I am reminded that remembering the Lord’s goodness allows an individual or group of people to boldly pray and ask the Lord to restore what had been lost. ( 9:1-32). Pray and petition involves faith and commit as the people had to sign an oath of allegiance promising to follow the Lord. ( 9:38-10:39). From the detailed record of the people and the account of the Levites and Priests performing their duties ( 11-12) , I am reminded that the Lord was faithful to his promise of restoration ( Deuteronomy 28). Nehemiah upon returning from a visit to King Xerxes , found that the people had strayed from the Lord and so he urged the people to come back to the covenant and to abandon their foreign wives and children. (Nehemiah 13).
Theme 1: (1-4): Following the Lord involves repenting of one’s sin and trusting him for guidance. Nehemiah confessed the sin of his people, his household and his own personal sin. ( 1:6-7). He confronted his enemies who were opposing the rebuilding of the walls and the fortifying of the city , not allowing the plans to be compromised or delayed. (2: 19-20). From Nehemiah’s success and the success of those who worked at rebuilding the city , I am reminded that the Lord blesses the work of those who follow him ( 3: 28-32). Nehemiah overcame the plot of those who tried to kill those who worked on the wall by dividing them into groups and having men work with spears to protect the others. (4:15-18).
Theme 2: (5-8): The individual or individuals who are faithful to obey the Lord and are just will experience success and victory from the Lord as their work prospers. Nehemiah instructed the rich landowners, rebuking them and telling them to treat the people fairly. (5:9). He continued his task of reconstruction not giving into the opposition he faced (6: 1-14). As a result of this the Lord gave him success and the repairs were completed in only 52 days. (6: 15-16). Chapter 7 of Nehemiah recorded the details of the establishment of order in Jerusalem through having soldiers posted in the fortifications in the walls and the restoration of the Temple worship through the establishment of priests and Levites. The people heard the covenant read to them by Ezra (8:1-4) and later commit themselves to it by observing the ceremonies God had given them by celebrating the Festival of Booths in which they remembered the Lord’s faithfulness to them in the desert. (8:13-18).
Theme 3: (9-13): The Lord is merciful and faithful to us and in reverence we must worship him and have times of celebration and thanksgiving for what he has done. Through the people repenting as a nation when they assembled as a people and were instructed by Ezra , I am reminded that remembering the Lord’s goodness allows an individual or group of people to boldly pray and ask the Lord to restore what had been lost. ( 9:1-32). Pray and petition involves faith and commit as the people had to sign an oath of allegiance promising to follow the Lord. ( 9:38-10:39). From the detailed record of the people and the account of the Levites and Priests performing their duties ( 11-12) , I am reminded that the Lord was faithful to his promise of restoration ( Deuteronomy 28). Nehemiah upon returning from a visit to King Xerxes , found that the people had strayed from the Lord and so he urged the people to come back to the covenant and to abandon their foreign wives and children. (Nehemiah 13).
Monday, April 20, 2009
2 Thessalonians
Themes and Insights from 2 Thessalonians
Theme 1: Suffering has 2 purposes for the Christian and these are to make believers more like Christ and to spread the gospel. Paul told the Thessalonian believers that their suffering was evidence of the righteousness of God and was intended to make them worthy of the kingdom of God. (2 Thessalonians 1:5). Paul told them that he prayed that Christ would be glorified in them and that by his power might share in the work of the Lord. (2 Thessalonians 2:16).
Theme 2: Every individual must work at a task and not be idle. Paul told the Thessalonians that they needed to be like him, Timothy and Silas and not be idle. They were not idol but rather paid for their food with toil and sweat and work continually so they would not be a burden to any individual. (2 Thessalonians 3: 7-8).
Theme 1: Suffering has 2 purposes for the Christian and these are to make believers more like Christ and to spread the gospel. Paul told the Thessalonian believers that their suffering was evidence of the righteousness of God and was intended to make them worthy of the kingdom of God. (2 Thessalonians 1:5). Paul told them that he prayed that Christ would be glorified in them and that by his power might share in the work of the Lord. (2 Thessalonians 2:16).
Theme 2: Every individual must work at a task and not be idle. Paul told the Thessalonians that they needed to be like him, Timothy and Silas and not be idle. They were not idol but rather paid for their food with toil and sweat and work continually so they would not be a burden to any individual. (2 Thessalonians 3: 7-8).
Ezra
Themes and Insights from Ezra
Theme 1: The Lord has a plan for the events of history and is faithful to the covenant promises he makes. The Lord was faithful to his promise to bring back the Jews scattered abroad as King Cyrus freed the people of Israel. (Ezra 1:2-4). In addition to this the neighbors of the Jewish people are generous to them giving them what they need for their journey to Jerusalem. ( Ezra 1:6). The Lord also prospered the people in exile as they continued to grow in number. ( Ezra 2:1-67).
Theme 2: Worshipping the Lord involves being obedient to him in the present and remembering what the Lord has done in the past. The people celebrated the Passover rejoicing in God’s delivering them from bondage in Egypt in the past. (Ezra 3:1-6). They were also faithful to work on building the Temple and rejoiced when it was completed. ( Ezra 3:8-13). As a result of opposition the Temple was not completely rebuilt until a period of 6 years but when it was completed , the people rejoiced celebrating the Passover. (Ezra 6: 14-22). Part of their worship of the Lord involved repenting of their sins and removing sources of temptation. Ezra prayed on behalf of the people for their sin of intermarriage ( Ezra 9) and then the men sent away their foreign wives and children from the community. ( Ezra 10).
Theme 3: Following the Lord involves preserving despite hardships and delays to the work which we do for the Lord. The work of the Temple restoration was stopped by Persian force ( Ezra 4) and later restored by an edict from King Darius which also gave support to the project of Temple restoration. (Ezra 6).
Theme 4: Following the Lord involves seeking his will, being willing to be used by him and being grateful for what the Lord has done. Ezra trusted in the Lord and was used by a foreign King Darius to accomplish the task of bringing the people back to Jerusalem and settling them in their ancestral homeland. King Darius searched the archives finding the order of King Cyrus and writing orders that protected the Jews from their enemies and provided financial and other support to the project. (Ezra 5- 6:13).
Theme 1: The Lord has a plan for the events of history and is faithful to the covenant promises he makes. The Lord was faithful to his promise to bring back the Jews scattered abroad as King Cyrus freed the people of Israel. (Ezra 1:2-4). In addition to this the neighbors of the Jewish people are generous to them giving them what they need for their journey to Jerusalem. ( Ezra 1:6). The Lord also prospered the people in exile as they continued to grow in number. ( Ezra 2:1-67).
Theme 2: Worshipping the Lord involves being obedient to him in the present and remembering what the Lord has done in the past. The people celebrated the Passover rejoicing in God’s delivering them from bondage in Egypt in the past. (Ezra 3:1-6). They were also faithful to work on building the Temple and rejoiced when it was completed. ( Ezra 3:8-13). As a result of opposition the Temple was not completely rebuilt until a period of 6 years but when it was completed , the people rejoiced celebrating the Passover. (Ezra 6: 14-22). Part of their worship of the Lord involved repenting of their sins and removing sources of temptation. Ezra prayed on behalf of the people for their sin of intermarriage ( Ezra 9) and then the men sent away their foreign wives and children from the community. ( Ezra 10).
Theme 3: Following the Lord involves preserving despite hardships and delays to the work which we do for the Lord. The work of the Temple restoration was stopped by Persian force ( Ezra 4) and later restored by an edict from King Darius which also gave support to the project of Temple restoration. (Ezra 6).
Theme 4: Following the Lord involves seeking his will, being willing to be used by him and being grateful for what the Lord has done. Ezra trusted in the Lord and was used by a foreign King Darius to accomplish the task of bringing the people back to Jerusalem and settling them in their ancestral homeland. King Darius searched the archives finding the order of King Cyrus and writing orders that protected the Jews from their enemies and provided financial and other support to the project. (Ezra 5- 6:13).
Friday, April 17, 2009
1 Thessalonians
Theme 1 : The gospel when it is embraced by people results in a changed life in which holiness, mercy and love are evident. Christians are also people who pray continually. Paul noted that the Thessalonians believers after receiving the gospel in the power and conviction of the Holy Spirit became imitators of it despite facing persecution. ( 1:5-6). Paul noted that holiness, purity and love were the traits for which he wished the Lord would increase in their life and which he had prayed about. ( 3:12-13). A final characteristic of the changed life of a Christian is that it is one in which prayer is done on a continual basis. Paul stated to the Thessalonians Church that they were to pray without ceasing , giving thanks in all circumstances for this was the will of God in Christ Jesus for them. ( 5 :17).
Theme 2: Christ alone matters and not things , idols or ideas for he is the one who saves us. We have hope for Christ has been victorious over death and will come again to bring us to himself and the Father in heaven. Paul stated that Jesus had rescued them from the wrath that was coming. ( 1: 10). He told the Church that they were not without hope for they would spend eternity with Christ. Paul stated that all who had died would meet Christ in the air at the time of his return to earth. The living believers would follow. All believers would live in heaven with Christ forever. (4:16-18).
Theme 3: Christians have an adversary called Satan who wants to destroy us and so we must be on guard for him and use the weapons Christ has given us to defend ourselves against him. Paul noted that their adversary Satan had at times blocked their plans for ministry. ( 2: 18). He told the believers to use the breastplate of faith and love, and the helmet of salvation to defend themselves against Satan. ( 5:8). finally we are to encourage and build each other up so that we do not become discouraged in the Christian faith. ( 5:17).
Theme 2: Christ alone matters and not things , idols or ideas for he is the one who saves us. We have hope for Christ has been victorious over death and will come again to bring us to himself and the Father in heaven. Paul stated that Jesus had rescued them from the wrath that was coming. ( 1: 10). He told the Church that they were not without hope for they would spend eternity with Christ. Paul stated that all who had died would meet Christ in the air at the time of his return to earth. The living believers would follow. All believers would live in heaven with Christ forever. (4:16-18).
Theme 3: Christians have an adversary called Satan who wants to destroy us and so we must be on guard for him and use the weapons Christ has given us to defend ourselves against him. Paul noted that their adversary Satan had at times blocked their plans for ministry. ( 2: 18). He told the believers to use the breastplate of faith and love, and the helmet of salvation to defend themselves against Satan. ( 5:8). finally we are to encourage and build each other up so that we do not become discouraged in the Christian faith. ( 5:17).
2 Chronicles
Theme 1: (1-9): The Lord is faithful to keep his promises and desires to bless his people. The Lord blessed Solomon with wealth and fame in addition to wisdom for he was pleased with Solomon’s desire to rule as a man who followed after the Lord as his father David did. ( 2Chronicles 1). King Hiriam of Tyre whom Solomon assembled materials for the temple construction from , noted how the Lord had blessed Solomon with wisdom. ( 2 Chronicles 2). Solomon’s work of constructing the temple was blessed as he took time to diligently ensure it was done right. ( 2 Chronicles 3-5). The Lord promised to answer the prayers of the people who seek him in his temple and to bless those who follow him, dealing mercifully with those who are disobedient. ( 2 Chronicles 6-7). Solomon’s vast trading expeditions ( 2 Chronicles 8) and the Queen of Sheba noting how blessed and wise Solomon was ( 2 Chronicles 9) demonstrate that the Lord’s promise to give Solomon wealth and fame in addition to wisdom was kept.
Theme 2: (10-18): The Lord is faithful to equip and give success and blessing to those who follow him, prospering all their works. Reheboam’s kingdom was divided due to Solomon’s disobedience to the covenant as the Lord said the nation would be divided into 2 kingdoms . ( 2 Chronicles 10). Reheboam was initially blessed with success although he did not completely follow the Lord as he took many wives like his father Solomon had done. ( 2 Chronicles 11). His taking many wives caused him to follow the deities of his wives and worship them which resulted in the Lord punishing him by subjecting him to the king of Egypt. ( 2 Chronicles 12). King Abijah who obeyed the Moasic covenant was blessed with success. ( 2 Chronicles 13). King Asa who obeyed the Lord was given many military victories over his enemies. ( 2 Chronicles 14-15). However he suffered defeat when he trusted in human strength making an alliance with Israel ( 2 Chronicles 16). King Jeosophat trusted in the Lord and was given success, wealth and victory over his enemies. He rebuked King Ahab for not inquiring of the Lord before the 2 nations went into battle against the Syrians. ( 2 Chronicles 17-18).
Theme 3:(19-28): Those who seek the Lord ‘s instruction and follow him will be blessed while disobedience leads to downfall. Jehosophat established judges and appointed Levites to instruct the people in the Lord’s ways. He is given success by the Lord and prospers being victorious over his enemies. ( 2 Chronicles 19-20). King Jethrorath and King Ahaziah were disobedient to the Lord and they had short reigns. ( 2 Chronicles 21-22). King Josiah sought the Lord and destroyed the objects of worship for Baal and is given success. ( 2 Chronicles 23). King Joash, his son had a short reign due to his disobedience. ( 2 Chronicles 24). King Amaziah who obeyed the Lord at the beginning of his reign prospered but due to his turning away from the Lord, he died a brutal death. ( 2 Chronicles 25). King Uzziah had a long reign as he followed the Lord but he was punished by having leprosy for his taking on the role of a priest and offering sacrifices. ( 2 Chronicles 26). King Jotham had a peaceful reign of 16 years as he obeyed the Lord. ( 2 Chronicles 27). King Ahaz faced destruction as he disobeyed the Lord and was punished by Assyrian armies. (2 Chronicles 28).
Theme 4: ( 2 Chronicles 29-36). The Lord acts with compassion and allows his people opportunities to repent. Kings act as models for the people and help establish or destroy the worship of the Lord. King Hezekiah drew the people back to the Lord as he worked to reestablish the worship of the Lord. He even made arrangements for all the people in Judah and Israel to celebrate the Passover. ( 2 Chronicles 29-30). He also reestablished the Temple worship ( 2 Chronicles 31) and sought the Lord in prayer when his nation was delivered from the Assyrians. ( 2 Chronicles 32). His son Mannish disobeyed the Lord and worshiped idols . After he was taken captive by the Assyrians he repented and was returned to his kingdom. ( 2 Chronicles 33). King Josiah sought the Lord repairing the temple , reading the law of the Lord and reestablishing the covenant. He also led the people in celebrating the Passover. ( 2 Chronicles 34-35). As a result of their continually disobedience the nation of Judah is taken into captivity in Babylon and Jerusalem is destroyed. ( 2 Chronicles 36).
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Colossians
Themes and Insights from Colossians
Theme 1: Christians are to bear the fruit of the Holy Spirit and become more like Christ. Paul stated that he was pleased to hear that the Colossian Christians were full of love in the Holy Sprit. ( 1:8). He told them that his desire for them was that they would lead lives pleasing to the Lord , bearing fruit from their good works and growing in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. ( 1:10). Paul noted that his 2 goals as an Apostle were to proclaim the gospel and to teach believers in all wisdom so that they could present themselves to the Lord as mature believers. (1:25-28).
Theme 2: Human rituals and philosophy are worthless and only the gospel of Jesus Christ matters. Paul told the Colossian believers not to be deceived or taken captive by human philosophy for it was through Jesus Christ they had been saved and redeemed from the penalty of sin. Christ through his death and resurrection had disarmed all human authority making an example of it when he triumphed over it. (2:8-15). All of our former ways of worship and rituals were no longer of value. Paul stated that in Christ they had died to the things of the world. (2:20). He also said that although these rituals appeared to have value they were worthless. (2:22-23). He told them that their focus was to be on heavenly and not earthly things. ( 3:1-5). As part of our new focus on Christ we get rid of all the human wickedness in us and put away all of our former evil ways , as we cloth ourselves in the knowledge and way of Christ. ( 3:5-10). We live a new lifestyle in which we are filled with compassion, kindness, humility , meekness and patience and we are able to forgive and love each other. We have the peace of Christ and through his peace we are united as one body. ( 3:12-15). As followers of Christ , we have his word dwelling in us and we are able to encourage each other with God’s word and to worship him together with Psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. All that we say and do is for the glory of God. (3:16-17).
Theme 3: Through submitting to those in authority and making the best use of our time , we can work for the spread of the gospel. Paul noted how obedience to husbands, parents and masters ( bosses) , was essential as in doing so we were being obedient to Christ. ( 3:18-25). Paul concluded his letter to the Colossians by telling them to make the most of their time and to have their speech seasoned with salt , so that their words would attract others and thus allow them to be effective witnesses for Christ. (4: 5-6).
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