Need a good book?

Just read a postmodern book par excellence.

It begins with the genealogy of power.
Every chapter is a deconstruction.
Truth is questioned and left unanswered, or seemingly so. ...
Social categories are questioned and radically overturned.
It contains incredulity towards all metanarratives.
Justice is the un-deconstructible finality.
Every page demands the reader's response.
And it ends with a subversive allegory.

What book?

It comes in many names.

Commonly, it's called The New Testament.

Tx Joshua Woo (GCF Singapore)

FB response
Did you notice that in the genealogy of power that introduces the book, there are 4 women slipped into the lineage, all of whom have some scandal or political incorrectness attached to them? Ah, the message of inclusion of the weak and unworthy already is to be discovered there.

Congrats, you have completed the challenge!

What could I do with the material on this blog?

Now that the 27 books in 27 days challenge is over. Be creative create your own challenge!
Here are some examples
1
Do a one-day reading retreat from Romans to Revelations
Get people to bring their computers and log on to a Facebook page.
Copy and paste the material from Word Up/ this blog according to a schedule and read the bible together. Talk about what you have learnt over meal times.
A possible schedule:


9am-10.30am    Opening prayer.
Romans (Read aloud in small groups)
10.30-11           Morning tea discuss Romans
11-12.30           1 Corinthians
(Have 4 people read four chapters over and over again. Person A chapter 1-4, Person B chapter 5-8, Person C chapter 9-12, Person D the rest. People can walk listening to each person. To illustrate division in the church)
12.30-1.30        Lunch discuss 1 Corinthians and do word art
1.30-3               2 Corinthians and Galatians ( Take turns to read to the whole group)
3-3.30               Afternoon tea and discuss
3.30-4.30          The prison letters Ephesians, Colossians, Philippians and Philemon. (Read alone on the floor/ prison-like conditions)
4.30-5.30           The 3 Ts over tea Thessalonians, Timothy and Titus. (Read while drinking tea)
5.30-6.30           Philemon and Hebrews (Read in plets ie triplets or quadruplets. Then pray over what you have read.)
6.30-7.30          Dinner discuss Pauline letters
7.30-8.30          Non-Pauline letters- James, Peter, John, Jude (Have 4 readers give an introduction of the author of each book and read the book aloud. People can walk around listening to each author)
8.30-10             Revelations over Supper ( Play audio reading)


2
An 8-hour Gospel Reading Marathon
Have a sign up sheet for people to read the gospels at different time slots in a high traffic area on campus.

9-10    Matt
10-11  Matt
11-11.30  Matt
11.30-12.30 Mark
12.30-1.30 Luke
1.30-2.30 Luke
2.30-3 Luke
3-4 John
4-5 John
If they are able to read with expression or drama that would be great. The idea is to introduce people to the Jesus in the bible.

or do it online
Get people to sign up to read one chapter each in whichever version they like, upload their video clip on an Facebook Page and organise the clips in the right order.

You could invite listeners/viewers to Christianity Explained, give them a Godzone or send them a video link to a dramatised Gospel video.

3
You could add the two together for a 27 books weekend away challenge.
Don't forget to include Acts ( 3 hours after dinner on the first day)

There are heaps of possibilities. Take it slow, read the bible with events included for a whole month or speed it up, with a 24/7 challenge where 27 books are read in 24 hours straight.  You could add material you find helpful to this blog.

Cheers :)

Mulling over 2 Peter 1:3-11

The Harlem Shake is flooding my Facebook this morning and as I reflect on 2 Peter 1:3-11, in a mad way, I am starting to find a connection. In this crazy, disturbing dance, one person starts dancing and everyone ignores him. The words "Do the Harlem Shake" are spoken and everyone starts dancing. In my mind, this speaks to me. Sometimes on campus, I feel like we are dancing alone and everyone ignores us. I then wonder, or scramble around trying to find the magic words, the prefect strategy, the right words to pray, the key to make everyone dance too.

Today's verse, tells us that God is the Logos, intercessor, music that we dance to. 

"His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 4Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires." In cell group on Friday, we talked about looking high and low for the key to enter a house; not realising that we are already in the house. God has called you (Christian students, staff) to be on campus. He has given you everything you need to have life and godliness, to be part of one another in love (divine nature) and escape evil desires. Our inclination in TSCF is towards having a heart for the world (Global Reach), a depth of knowledge, and biblical understanding (Deep Thought), individual integrity, and loving togetherness (Undivided Life) and in sharing lives with others in authentic and legit ways (True Witness). God is already playing out this tune on our campuses, we need to hear it and dance to it. Yet, dancing takes effort. How are we to move our bodies? Randomly or suggestively like in the Harlem Shake?  Peter tells us how to "keep from being ineffective and unproductive".  5For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. 8For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9But if anyone does not have them, he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins.  Unlike the graded performance required by our studies, these eight qualities lay dormant in us, requiring us to allow God to make them come alive and move. Faith and love, begin and end this dance sequence. In the between, in any order, we are asked to be intentional about being good (courageous in standing up for what is right), knowledgeable (about the things of God and the world while knowing it is a false dichotomy), self-controlled (dying to self daily), never giving up, godliness (practically obeying and being aware of God in everything) and being kind. The "nearsighted and blind person" is the one who ignores the tune and doesn't make the effort to stand up and dance. So when does everyone get up and celebrate and move to the tune? 10Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never fall,11and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." 2 Peter 1: 3-11 Peter says it is when we are welcomed into the eternal kingdom that is already here but not yet. Thanks for joining me in my musings... eh. now let's dance?

A modern day epistle

epistle [ɪˈpɪsəl]
n
1. a letter, esp one that is formal.
2. (Literary & Literary Critical Terms) a literary work in letter form, esp a dedicatory verse letter of a type originated by Horace
[Old English epistol, via Latin from Greek epistolē, from epistellein to send to, from stellein to prepare, send]
I suppose today, an epistle would look like this inspiring blog entry by outgoing Auckland EU president Zachary to the new committee. http://thelocutionaryact.wordpress.com/2013/02/04/lessons-on-life/

lessons on life

 

Feb4by truelocution

So, here are some thoughts on what I’ve learned from being involved in leadership in a Christian group at uni. They’re mostly pretty cliched and obvious, but I learnt them (or at least claim to have done so), so I’ll share them just in case they could be useful. After years of failure and frustration (amidst other things) with an eventual modicum of success, I think I have, at least, something to say about what not to do. I’m really pleased with what God has done through the group, believe that in the end it was a good use of my time, and look forward to seeing what happens now.

In a word, it’s all about direction – work out the way to go with the help of others, and go there whilst taking people with you. Actually, that is probably too vague to be good advice, so don’t base your life on it.
1) Put people first, or at least high up the list. Great programmes are pointless if people don’t get the point or are too tired to participate. That said, there’s a balance, and a lot of people could benefit from being pushed a little, so it’s not a great idea to immediately cave in to people’s natural apathy or laziness. A group which aims to ‘just hang out and be friends’ isn’t going to be hugely productive (some people will probably disagree with this, as it’s cool in Christian circles to prioritise ‘community’, but to me it’s fairly obvious that mere social groups without a goal are not going anywhere), but getting the scales even is a challenge.
2) There’s lots to do out there. The work of Christian ministry is never done, so please pick a task and get to it. Even try starting something new; there’s plenty of need for that. If you leave it to “others”, there’s a good chance it won’t happen or that they’ll burn out, or both. The God who upholds the universe doesn’t need us, but he does use us and recognising this is part of our function in life.
3) God uses the everyday small things as well as the big things. Making a small effort to chat with a person has sometimes been far more productive than things that many hours (and a few dollars) were invested into. HOWEVER, big events and programmes provide unique opportunities too and can produce unseen fruit, they just need some people around who are able to do the ‘small thing’ of connecting with others too.
4) If you do nothing you won’t be criticised. If you want to do something different than the status quo, to start with you’ll get a mix of flak, lack of comprehension, and merely being ignored (the default position). The movement from being ignored to being criticised can come with a small thrill, as at least they’re engaging! The shift from criticism or lack of comprehension to actual support is gold. Note, constructive criticism which provides real alternatives (and ideally is accompanied by offers of help) is great.
5) Don’t assume you’re on the same page as people – you’re probably not. “Communication is the key” and other such gems of obviousness. This was true in small and big ways within the group, within the wider organisation, and with the leaders of other groups; I think it would’ve helped to check people’s understanding of purpose and practice/method more often. You don’t want to find out at the end of the year that things didn’t work out so well because people privately disagreed on what is important.
So yeah, put first things first, and get to it. If you’re not sure what to put first, please do talk to me about it.

Share this:

马可福音.读后感

       在新约里,马可福音是最短的一卷. 新约里的四本福音很相似, "神的儿子" 是马可福音的主题. 第一章第一节就说明了基督是福音的起头.耶稣在约旦河受洗的时候, 有从天上来的声音, 道:"你是我的爱子,我喜悦你."

***

       无神论学者不相信有神的存在 在资讯丰富的时代,科技发展到可以复制生物的程度,人们视乎忽略有更强大的力量存在.越来越远离神, 但是就连恶鬼也知道耶稣是神的儿子, 大声呼叫:"至高神的儿子耶稣,我与你有什么相干?我指着神恳求你,不要叫我受苦!" 

***

       马可也记载耶稣登山变像,有声音从云彩后传来,说:"这是我的爱子,你们要听他的." 神两次用同样的方式提醒人们听从耶稣的教诲,也肯定了他的身份.作为神的儿子，耶稣拥有医病，赶鬼，行神迹奇事权柄，使群众为之慑服。当耶稣在十字架上丧命的时候,殿里的幔子被撕裂成两半,一位百夫长感叹说: 这人真是神的儿子!"圣经记载的神迹不少, 这足以表现耶稣是神子的真相. 但是他是完全的神,也是完全的人, 因为他也拥有人性, ---------"耶稣怒目周围看他们,忧愁他们的心刚硬,就对那人说:"伸出手来!"他把手一伸,手就复了原." 第三章第五节.

Day Twenty-Seven: God claims His own

I know I've been commenting a lot on how different some of the time estimates are to my reading - but this one is probably the furthest out yet! Four hours... Really?? I know it is a complex book - I thought at first I had forgotten how long it was - but no, it was still the twenty-two chapters it always had been, and the chapters are about the same length as most books in the New Testament. It took me one hour. One-quarter the time of the estimate. Now, I am relatively familiar with Revelation, having studied it in the past, and I chose not to get bogged down in chapters like I have done in some cases, but it was still a thorough read, and to take 1/4 the time estimated when I usually go over - that boggles my mind!

Anyway, on to more profitable discussion. The last book in the New Testament, by all accounts also the last divinely inspired revelation of God written down for our understanding - especially as it has a warning at the end not to add to or take away from what is written! Written by the Apostle John, exiled to the Isle of Patmos in the late 90's (no, not 1990's - but the 90's just before the end of the first century!), he writes very little of his own words. The intro and the epilogue is his own words, but everything else is written observations of revelation received directly from God, and ordered to write down.

Now the challenge - enjoy reading the book without trying to unpack it? Hmm. Harder done than said here, I think. Certainly I enjoyed reading the book, and being reminded of the future glory that God will finally claim for His own, and the glory he has also bestowed on us believers - but that also comes from a current understanding of the book having unpacked it in the past, and the picture it contains. Now, I cannot forget what I have already learned, nor would I want to - so I can't truly understand now what it would be like reading this for the first time, but I do remember it used to confuse me in the past (still does a lot, but slightly less than before).

I will be commenting on the themes of this wonderful book - hopefully I do not unpack it too much, but I also hope that I might shed a little light on some of the confusing elements, so we can better appreciate it. For those that after reading who want a more detailed overview of the book, I can recommend this link - A Jet Tour Through Revelation by John MacArthur. It's a sermon about an hour long - so no longer than reading through the book, with a transcript so can read through if you prefer that to listening. Those who want to unpack more can look to other resources, either on the same site or other sites - just be aware there are many ideas about interpreting Revelation, some more Biblically accurate than others, so be careful of your sources.

Now concerning echoes from past reading through the New Testament? In some ways, definitely, a lot of the themes are picked up, and repeated or brought to fulfilment. This is, after all the final event on God's calendar - things do get 'wrapped up' for the final eternal life. I will use another metaphor as well, though - I see Revelation as a rogue wave. A rogue wave is a very rare occurrence, and is formed when waves meet 'in-phase' and cause a mega-wave to be produced, at least twice as high as the height of the normal waves in that area. It comes out of nowhere - no warning - and can be devastating. The normal waves are like the earlier teaching and epistles - warnings and teachings during the period of grace we live in. Then like a rogue wave, the judgement of God is held off no longer,, and rises without warning. It's the same character as the waves before it, but this time it is much bigger - and there is no escape for those who are unprepared, and no way to ignore it. The teachings find their fulfilment - their full character and end are revealed, just like a rogue wave is bigger (and so can be seen better) than the normal waves.

I did like the quote by Ross Clifford and Philip Johnson. Nice way to sum up the book.



We begin with a look an introduction to Christ. Not Christ, the veiled Deity Who laid aside His glory to walk amongst - don't get me wrong, He WAS that - now we see Christ, the glorified One, the rightful Judge, showing all His glory.

First Christ directs John to write to the churches. These churches were real, historical churches at the time, and seem selected because they show the full spectrum of churches with their different errors and triumphs for Christ. All throughout history, there have been some examples of each of the churches, at some times one type dominates, at other times another, but all are present. We need to each heed the warnings and exhortation to these churches - no matter what type of church we are in! All of us desire to be Pergamos - about which nothing bad was said - or Smyrna, if we are under persecution. It is easy to fall into traps and deceit, through the world around us, false teachers, or forgetting our love for Christ. We also see some churches that are on their last legs - and nothing good is said about them. One of these is Laodicea, which seems an strong description of many churches today in the materialistic society. But whatever the evil that is in the church, Christ calls for repentance, and will answer if we repent and hear His voice - while there is still time.

Moving on from the churches, we go to heaven. It is a privilege having this glimpse into the heavenly realm! The glory of God is so magnificent, so majestic, beyond these simple words on paper, beyond anything we could imagine! Then we see the Lamb of God. Having paid the price for our sin, He alone is worthy to open the scroll and begin the judgement upon the earth He created, He redeemed, and now He will judge.

Through the next lot of chapters, we see many judgements. Through all of them, we see that the point is God's glory, that God is pouring out His wrath that mankind deserves, in keeping with His Holy and Righteous Character. Interspersed between the judgements are also messages of God saving people still on earth - The 144,000 Jewish evangelists, and we see converts from their witness praising God in Heaven. Another interlude, in chapter 10, recognises the bitter-sweet nature of the judgement - sweet to the mouth because God is finally glorified as He ought, and the wicked are being judged, but sorrow that so many did not repent and are suffering for their rejection of Him. We see two witnesses preaching in great power - God does not leave earth without people preaching His Word! Then, after this respite, the final judgement comes with a fury. Again and again we see reference to the same 42 months/1260days/3.5 years that is referred to here and in later interludes - often these are talking about the same period of time, the latter half of the 7 year period called the 'tribulation' when most of the judgement happens.

In chapter 12, we start to see things from a slightly different perspective. We see a struggle between Israel and Satan, and then leading into the 'beast' rising from the sea. So these chapters show things focused around Satan and the antichrist, and then the prophet that works with them - Satan's evil pseudo-imitation of the Trinity.

After the talk about the beasts, we see the witnesses again, and then the witness of angels preaching God's Word to those on earth. How can people still reject Him? He grants them so much time, so many warnings, so many chances to repent, and yet they still reject Him? Praise God that He saw fit to save me, and turn my stubborn heart to Him before it was too late! This section ends with more judgement, and the wrath of God poured out, as praise is rightfully given to God.

Another interlude, we backtrack to see something else that happened during the reign of the beast - we see a prostitute sitting on top of the beast. The prostitute is a symbol of idolatry, and false religion  - working hand in hand with the beast, and fighting with the beast against the Lamb of God. The antichrist then turns against the prostitute, destroying 'her' for his own ends, but also fulfilling the judgement of God on the false religions.

We return to Heaven, seeing again rightful praise of God, and the glorious marriage supper of the Lamb, where the church is presented as Christ's bride - those whom He has redeemed to Himself. Then He descends from Heaven, with the saints (Christians) with Him, bringing His Kingdom down to earth, and destroying all the wicked left upon the earth - a great slaughter!

The millennial (thousand year) reign of Christ is established, and Satan is bound so as not to cause trouble. Finally we will see a good and righteous government system! He grants us (the saints who were in heaven and are come back to earth with Him) the privilege of serving as judges in His Kingdom. The people left behind on the earth are the Christians saved during the judgement period, that have not already been martyred themselves - some did indeed turn and repent, through the many witnesses God sent to preach, and His wondrous grace! After the thousand years, though, there are some (presumably the descendants, since the original survivors would be truly God's) that will be deceived by Satan when he is released, and rebel against God. The judgement is swift, and they all die. Now all evildoers that have ever lived have died, the Great White Throne of Judgement occurs, and all who are not written in the book of life stand before God in judgement, and are sentenced to eternal punishment in the lake of fire. The believers are all glorified by this stage.

Then we have a marvellous description of the New Heaven and New Earth - created by God, for His dwelling alongside and with man. The judgement is done, no unrighteous are here - they are all condemned to spiritual death. Only those multitudes who Christ has redeemed to Himself, who have accepted His redemption, now live with Him forever! The glory of this place is beyond words - enjoy this glimpse of it, but never minimise it or think lightly of it - it is far greater than we can ever understand with our sinful minds!

John concludes the book, and we are told not to hide this revelation, but read it and speak it, and obey it. Never add to it, and never take away from it -- it is the Word of God! He is coming soon... O, Lord Jesus, COME!!!!!!!!!

Lord, we thank You for these insights into the future You have prepared. We glorify You for You alone are worthy - You, Who redeemed us by Your blood, dying for our sake - we praise Your Name! Thank You for the confidence we can have in Your sovereign care, Your timing, and Your judgement. We praise You that the wicked will be destroyed utterly in Your timing, and we praise You for the grace we have until that time. Help us ever to be ready Lord - help us to warn others and teach others Your truth, that they might receive the blessing of salvation and eternal fellowship with You. Lord, we pray for Your will to be done - You know what is best! Bless our lives, as we commit them to Thee, and hold us close we pray. We await You with glad anticipation. In Your name, and trusting in You, we pray. Amen.

Day Twenty-Six: Opposing false teaching

Closer to 5 min, I think, for this epistle. It's at least twice the length of the last two short letters by John.

Written by Jude, the author is commonly understood to be Jude, brother of the James that wrote the epistle by that name, and half-brother of Christ. Like James, he doesn't claim any relationship with Christ but as a servant - anything more would be presumptuous. He basically uses James as a name to drop so the recipients would be sure of who he was, so it makes sense that the James mentioned is the one who was a 'pillar of the church' at Jerusalem. Jude seems to be writing predominantly to Jews, given the numerous references to Old Testament times, and his assumption they are familiar with his examples.

The commentary linked to I found really good, nice short explanatory comments to help understanding of the passage.

I love the greeting Jude uses - called, beloved, and kept - looking to our past and the positional privilege that God has granted us when He called us and we came to Him in repentance - looking at our present, and the love that God shows us now, constantly - and looking to the future, God securing us for Himself, until we meet Christ again, either at death or Rapture.

The main gist of the letter is all about false teachers. Jude would prefer that there were no problems and he could just talk about the wonderful salvation we have, but no - this issue must be addressed!

He talks about false teachers and their sensuality (perverted sexual immorality) and rejection of the authority of Christ, and then uses two examples to illustrate the judgement that will come.
He talks about their reliance on dreams (either 'visions' or just thought up notions), possibly claiming they were from God. Defiling flesh (again sexual immorality), rejecting authority (again), and mentions blaspheming 'the glorious ones' (angels).
The term blasphemy is interesting here - he uses it again in the example of Michael the archangel 'not using blasphemous judgement'. Blasphemy is basically anything that shows contempt or disrespect for God, which fits these two cases well. Blaspheming angels could be either ascribing powers to them that they do not have (including Satan, who is a fallen angel), or worshipping them. The example with Michael shows that even rebuking the angel on his own authority would be blasphemy though - indicating even the idea that we can judge or have power over angels (fallen or holy) is blasphemous, because we are rejecting God's power over them and trying to use our own power.

The false teachers are shown as self-serving, promising what they can't deliver. The example of Balaam here is particularly interesting. Cain killed Abel and Korah rebelled against Moses and Aaron over pride, essentially, and serving their own desires, but we don't have too much info on them. Balaam, on the other hand, we have a little more info. Most Sunday school children would know the story of Balaam and his donkey, being asked to curse the Israelites, refusing at first then going, then getting stopped by and angel and the donkey speaking to him, then continuing to the place and blessing the Israelites instead. Not as many know he was still a 'bad apple' though - forced to bless the Israelites, he then tried to corrupt them using idolatry and sexual immorality, in order to serve himself in the King of Moab's sight (and gain that reward money he lost, presumably). Quite a typical false teacher - insisting on his way until he gets a 'confirmation' vision, and then maybe speaking the right words, but acting and plotting corruption in order to serve himself.

Again, judgement is pronounced upon them, executed by the Lord in His timing. It is interesting to summarise the descriptors of these false prophets that are to be judged: Ungodly; Morally perverted; Deniers of Christ; Defilers of the flesh; Rejecting authority; Blaspheming angels; Dreamers; Ignorant; Self-destructive; Grumblers; Malcontent (not content); Self-seeking; Arrogant; Playing favourites; Scoffers; Divisive; Worldly; Devoid of the Holy Spirit.
To combat them, we are primarily responsible for making sure we stand firm, and keep close to God, praying in the Holy Spirit, in the love of God. Those that are listening to the false teachers that can be persuaded, we should try to help them - some who are swaying, unsure, using compassion and lovingly build them up in the truth - others who are more involved with the false teachers and already mostly or fully persuaded, we can try to save them from the deception, but must be very careful that we are firm ourselves, not letting ourselves become corrupted by the false doctrine. An important warning, as many may enter into situations where they join a false group in order to try and minister or help those in the group, never thinking that they would fall, but many do fall - even debating with them on your home turf can sometimes be damaging to yourself if you are not prepared  -  thus the importance of staying close to God through prayer (and study of His Word). The same sort of caution can be applied to dealing with other religions (by other religions, I refer to those not claiming to be Christian. Technically all false teaching is teaching another religion to Christianity)- the differences may be more obvious, but caution is still required, as they can still be persuasive.

An illustration of a hole in the ice is appropriate here - if someone is out on a pond that you know has thin ice, you can sometimes call them back, and persuade them of the danger, if so, little harm done, and lesson learnt. Some won't listen, though, and will continue on to the thin ice regardless - or maybe they are already a long way out. Maybe the ice is starting to crack under them, or they fall in the water - or maybe it is apparently solid! Either way, if you go out on the ice without a rope or something holding you to the shore, you can just make the problem worse and be in severe danger yourself - possibly even causing them to fall through the ice by your extra weight (analogy here is if someone sees you getting involved with a movement that they are not sure about, it may confirm for them that it is all right). If you do go on the ice, even if you have the rope around you and know where the ice is a bit thicker, you still need to tread carefully and spread your weight to no get dunked in the cold water yourself (and so suffer harm). I am not saying don't go out on the ice, just make sure you are tied firmly to the bank with a lifeline, tread very carefully, don't go out unless you absolutely have to (other means of persuasion are exhausted), don't stay any longer than you absolutely have to, and knowing whether you can survive a dipping - make sure you are spiritually healthy, with a friend on the bank to help pull you out if fall in. Not a perfect analogy, but hopefully it illustrates some of the points.

The way Jude finishes off his letter - so profound! And so fitting to the tone of the whole letter.


Lord, thank You that You can keep us from stumbling. Thank You for Your call, Your love to us continually, and Your preservation of us for eternal life in Your presence. Lord, we pray for wisdom to be discerning of false teachers, and how we should interact with them (if at all). We pray for mercy for those influenced by false teachers, that they might be brought to knowledge of their deception, and understand the truth without going any further down the wrong path. Help us to deal with these people in love, Lord, these deceived people whom You love - Lord save them from this deception. Help us to know our limits Lord, and rely on Your power. Help us to realise the dangers of false teaching, and the dangers of being involved with these areas. If You call us to help in these cases Lord, give us strength, give us courage, give us wisdom, give us power and understanding, be with us we pray - and keep us in Your love. To You, our God and Saviour, to You alone be all glory and honour and praise!

Day Twenty-Five: Generous Hospitality

Again, a short epistle, quick 2 min read, but covering an important truth.

John is again the author, this time actually referring to himself as 'elder' - an impersonal descriptor, typically of John choosing not to use his own name. Addressed personally to Gaias - the only other epistle addressed personally was Philemon.

The subject of the letter is hospitality, similar to the last letter, which touched on the topic, but focusing on hospitality to those that were true teachers of the Word. There is a joy with which John writes as he commends Gaias for his hospitality, and encourages him to continue to do so. It is worth noting that John does not see hospitality given as a 'charity case', but rather an obligation - it is our duty as fellow-labourers in the church to support those who preach the Word. We are to be generous with the resources granted us, and use them wisely to support the work of God - whether it be itinerant preachers or other matters.

His actions are contrasted with another, who through pride refuses to assist, or even accept these itinerant preachers. Diotrephes is soundly condemned for this, and John shows his desire to put things right when he comes. It is always best for these sort of things to be dealt with, rather than leaving them to fester!

Leaving us with a final encouragement, he exhorts us to imitate good and not evil. The things we imitate show the nature of our life - you cannot keep living an evil life while being a Christian!

Lord, help us to receive Your children with love, and support those Who do Your work with gladness. We pray that You might protect us from falling to the temptation of pride, for we know we are all susceptible in part, but we also know that You have destroyed the power of all sin, and as we live in You, we will work righteously. Thank You for the ministry of many who serve by hospitality, preaching, or other work, and we pray for Your blessing upon them Lord. Help us to imitate You, and not seek to emulate any of this world. Amen.

马太福音. 读后感

        马太福音是新约的第一本书,以基督的家谱为开端, 吓坏了很多信徒,尤其是新信徒. 那么这个家谱的重要性是见仁见智.对在不同信仰成长阶段的人们有不一样的意义和感触.

       在我刚信基督时,我一眼苗过这么长的家谱,心里想,

 '家庭背景记录得仔细,但与我无关.'便省略第一章.

       其实到现在,很多名字我并不懂.但在考察耶稣的身份来历,它的意义非凡,并且牵涉了旧约的预言, 和上帝给的承诺. 

       马太记载了很多耶稣生前行的神迹和教诲.主题是信心.人对上帝的信心.耶稣赐给他的门徒们驱逐魔鬼和医治的能力, 但是他们的信心小,都没有赶走鬼;治好病.门徒们屡次猜疑耶稣,比方说在耶稣给五千人吃饱后,彼得叫耶稣让他到水面去,但因为风大,差点沉下去.耶稣紧握他的手,问他为什么迟疑. 那十二门徒跟随耶稣多日,目睹了多少神迹,听了多少教导,为什么猜疑像扎了根?

       人很脆弱,心更加容易被诱惑.我曾经心想自己如果生在耶稣的时代,自己必能做得比那十二门徒好.但仔细想想,这跟随基督的使命并不容易.耶稣三番四次提醒众人爱仇敌,施舍等.但没有人能够做的像耶稣那样完美无瑕.就连彼得也三次否认他.实在的,人的心就像水,把它摆放在怎么样的容器,它就变怎么样的形态. 

       要做到耶稣的标准比登天还难.正因如此,上帝叫我们不要论断他们.没有人在神的眼里是无罪的.自己若犯了同样的错不能指着他人,这是不公正的.偷窃与杀人,那个罪较重?今天的法律按你所犯的刑条而判刑,偷了东西可能被关几个月;杀了人要关上几十年,甚至死刑.这个系统重视以牙还牙,你要为你的行为负责任.相反的,对上帝来说,偷窃与杀人的罪一样,都是罪.所以不要以异样的眼光论断他人,因为每个人在上帝的眼里是平等的.他不以我们的社会地位,家境,样貌去评断;而是我们的心.一颗凭信心去依赖神,实行并且宣扬基督的教诲. 

       圣经像一座城堡,每一个角落藏着不一样的宝藏.每一章,每一节表达了神对人的爱. 

       马太福音以基督的降生为开始,人称他为 "Immanuel"，神与人同在的意思, 在结尾恰到好处地应验了上帝的承诺, 说道:

 "凡我就常与你们同在, 直到世界的未了." 马太 (二十八章二十节)

       上帝与人同在了,直到永远.

Day Twenty-Four: Love in Truth

Here we have, if I recall correctly, the shortest book in the entire Bible, at least if you count number of verses, and it does literally take only 2 min to read, at the most.

Short book, so short comments, as I don't want to turn this into an intense Bible study:

Written by the apostle John again, but without his name - for reasons mentioned in the last epistle, he writes to believers that he knows, and hopes to visit shortly. There is some debate whether 'the elect lady and her children' is someone in particular that John knows, or whether it is a pseudonym for the church in another town (this was written from Ephesus). I am not certain, although some of the letter seems to support the idea of it being a particular person. It makes only little difference,  since he is addressing believers in any case.

Love and truth are inextricably linked in this epistle. (If you don't know what inextricably means, it means basically 'so tangled and entwined and together that it is impossible to separate'). Love is again linked to obedience to the commands of God, and truth is emphasised in contrast to the deceit of false teachers - here particularly those that teach Christ was not truly human. So important is the truth of God, that anyone teaching anything that is a distortion of the basic, fundamental, saving truths - they cannot even be greeted by a Christian, we cannot benefit or aid them in any way, not even being friendly to them, because they dare to corrupt the doctrine of God.

It is important that our love is linked with the 'right truth'. Those that are deceived and love a lie, thinking it true, are in danger of becoming deceivers and false teachers themselves! We must ALWAYS come back to the Word, the Divinely inspired Scriptures, which we know to be true, and seek the Holy Spirit's help in understanding His truth - that we might live out the love of God, and not the fraudulent love of a lie.

Lord, we thank You for Your Word of truth, preserved for us throughout many generations, and translated into a form we can readily understand. May we stand firm on Your truth, and be willing to oppose those who speak lies, who teach anything contrary to the truth. Those with minor distortions or with misguided motives, help us to approach in love and show them out of Your Word the Truth. Those who are set in their ways, teaching a contrary gospel, give us the discernment to recognise these despite their deceit, and not show them any acceptance or friendly greeting. Lord, we know that You desire all men to come to You and receive the free gift of salvation, and I pray that You would convict the hearts of those that teach contrary to Your Word. Help them to realise the error of their ways, and come to you, whether it is by the preaching by one of Your servants, or their own reading of Your Word, or even an argument or discussion with someone after they teach who challenges them that they are not preaching Your Word. If this may not be, Lord, knowing that You are in control of all things, I pray that You might limit their impact. Deafen the ears of those who hear these false teachers - make their memories of the false teachings flow in one ear and out the other without taking root. Help them to see that the false teaching is indeed false, and bring others into their lives that will teach them Your Truth in love. Amen.

Day Twenty-Three: Love in black and white

About 15 minutes reading through this, the first of John's epistles today.

As in the gospel he wrote, John doesn't explicitly identify himself in this letter, but his style is characteristic throughout the letter, and there is no other person who could write like this and expect to be accepted without identifying himself (John was the last of the apostles to die, and this was probably written after all the others had died).

Love is the most prominent theme throughout the letter. Mentioned 52 times, this is one of the reasons the apostle John is known as the apostle of love. There is a second theme that also pervades the whole book - the black and white nature of Christianity. Possibly no other author in the New Testament so sharply draws the line between those for God and those against God  - you are in either one camp or the other. Hence the emphasis on love is paramount - the firmness of the division must be related, but it must always be kept in the perspective of the love of Christ, which characterises the true Church of God.

John appears to be countering false teachers - but never directly addresses them. Unlike Paul, who argues with their points head on, John counters false teaching by simply affirming and repeating the truth - and showing us ways to test whether people are false, or whether from God.

He begins with the assurance of his knowledge - his assurance of God, and quickly leads into the purity and absolute righteousness of God, which righteousness we have been granted judicially by Christ's death (not that we can claim not to have sinned, but we have the privilege of having our sins forgiven). Having been forgiven, the love we receive from God works out in our lives, and we desire to keep his commands - if we do not, it is proof we do not know the love of God. We may still sin, but in this case Jesus advocates for us (speaks for us), and sins is no longer characteristic of us.

The command to love is not new, is has been God's standard for all ages. It has always been and will continue to be characteristic of God's people. John continues by emphasising the growth of a believer from 'little children' to 'young men' to 'fathers' - showing people maturing spiritually. And then the love of Christ is contrasted with the love for the world (fleshly desires, coveting with eyes, pride).

Leading on to deal more specifically with false teachers, John shows that it is better for false teachers to be shown as frauds and leave, rather remain and appear to be Christians. He gives a few test that we might know them by. He goes on to talk again of the confidence we have in Christ, and the love He has given us before emphasizing again that a believer is not characterised by sin - only unbelievers. New believers he addresses particularly in this area, because they are more susceptible to being deceived, but he urges them to recognise this that they be not deceived.

John emphasizes love again, contrasting the example of Cain with Christ, and linking again the obedience to God's commands with love - again, the idea of one or the other, you either obey or don't.

Then he returns to testing anything you hear or are taught - and gives another test: they must acknowledge that Christ came as a human - a polar opposite to the Gnostic heresy which was emerging at the time.

Again, back to love, and this time applied to loving each other. Using God as our example, he shows what love is like in a believer's life. Again a test, and again the idea of love = obey commands. Then we are back to assurance and testimony, then a summary of the whole book, going over main arguments again briefly. You may have noticed by now that John is a bit of a circular writer - unlike Paul who presents things in logical order (which British/American culture is used to) - John argues in circles/spirals, returning again and again to areas, slowly building on things (more similar to other cultures, Ecuador is an example I know of). Isn't it marvellous how God caters to all different types of culture and people by presenting things in different ways!

The final statement is curious - he has not mentioned idols before in the letter, but yet it fits so beautifully. If we love God, we have time and glory only for Him, we have no place for idols in our lives. In the Old Testament, too, idols and love for God were continually contrasted.

Lord, God of love, God Almighty. Father, we love You, because You first loved us, and sent Your Son to die for us. Jesus, we love You, because You first loved us, and gave Yourself for us. Thank You for coming in human form, and dwelling amongst us so that You might perfectly fulfil our suffering, that You might show love to us, who are undeserving, and that You might make us righteous in Your eyes. Lord, we seek to obey Your commands because we love You. We seek to love our brothers in sisters - both familial and spiritual - but we need Your help. We need You continually by our side to show Your love to others. Thank You for promising us that You will never leave us or forsake us. Lord, thank You that we can know the difference between right and wrong, good and bad, for You and against You. Thank you that there is no middle ground that we might be confused - for You are not a God of confusion - there is no darkness in You, only light. Open our eyes Lord, to see You better, and to see ourselves and others as You see them. Help us to love unbelievers as You love them - recognising they are against You, and at enmity with You, but seeking to lead them to knowledge and experience of the love we have received from You. Keep our eyes focused on You, our Lord, and Our God.

Day Twenty-Two: Reminders of God and Warnings

A few days ago we looked at Paul's final letter (II Timothy), and contemplated on that. Here we have Peter's final letter, also written at the end of his life, when he anticipates death in the near future. About 10 minutes reading for this letter.

Very good quiet time reading resources - I do my Bible study at the end of the day, so I didn't read the resources through the day as suggested, but they provide constructive and thoughtful comments and questions. Only one thing I would add to the last 'quiet time': It says "Pray that you will be always ready for Christ's return" I would tend to say - Pray that you ARE ready for Christ's return, and that you would remain that way - that you would always be ready. I know, 'always' suggests any time from now, but people tend to see the future tense, they think things can be put off, and they will get to that point eventually - but we must be ready NOW - if we are not, then we need to get ready now, so that we ARE ready.

Remember this - now live this! Remember this - don't forget it! Remember this - be assured of it! Remember this - don't let anyone tell you otherwise! Remember this - woe to those who turn their back on God! Remember this - and be ready! Remember this - and stand firm! Remember this - and keep growing!

As you have probably gathered from my previous paragraph, the theme I noticed coming through in Peter's words was a call to remember things. 'This' is, respectively:
The grace of God shown to us; That we were/are cleansed from our sins; The knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ, and His Glory; The Divine inspiration of the Scriptures; Those forsaking God and following their own desires are worse off than if they never knew God; Christ will come in conquering power and judgement, on His timetable; Others will try to twist the Scriptures for their own ends; All of the above!
Now, piece them together, or read them separately - as you like!

Let us encourage each other in the study of the Scriptures, in living out the way of righteousness, and in defending the glorious gospel of Christ from those who distort it and try to deceive us and others. Be very aware of false teachers - they will seem legitimate! (at least under cursory examination.) Rely on God, and not our own power to resist spiritual forces - and for wisdom to discern and answer false teaching. Also, something I think many of us fail at - and myself especially here - REMIND EACH OTHER!!!! Remind each other of the truths of God - this is not a once learnt, never forgotten thing like riding a bicycle - Peter was always reminding people, Paul was always reminding people, and we should follow their example!

A couple more thoughts on my own perspective on death/His coming again. I am reminded of my 21st Birthday party, where a friend asked me random questions to put me on the spot. One of them was - what is on your bucket list? Now, I'm not one for giving expected answers at the best of times - far more interesting to throw a spanner in the works and surprise people! But at the same time, a lot of these answers simply come out of a desire to be honest with people, being willing to be seen to be different, because I am different - I am Christ's! Wow, bit of a mouthful - better actually tell you my answer now: I answered "I don't have one" After another prod, I explained: I am ready to die right now, if that is what God decides - there is nothing I want to do before I die - nothing I need to do, I'm ready now." After that, we settled for explaining a couple of things I might enjoy doing if I did stay around - but the point was made.
I'm quite happy to live here on earth, while God has purpose for me here, and I'll plan for the future to use the time He has given wisely, but I would love far more to be with Him. 'Whether He will give me a chauffeured trip or in mass transport with all my friends' (dying, or ascending directly in the rapture) as my elder used to say (he got a chauffeured trip), it will be glorious either way. Be ready for His coming again - it could be today, it could be while I'm still typing this sentence. Ok, it wasn't that soon - maybe this one. No - not that one either - anyway, you get the picture. It could also be years or decades away - it is His timing, not ours. We just need to be ready.


Lord, thank You for these reminders of the wonderful truths. Thank You for the assurance You have given us, and the grace You have granted. Help us grow, Lord. Help us stand firm and not be deceived. Give us a passion for Your Word that cannot be put out by an apathetic or malicious world - and wisdom to discern the false from the true, and any distortions of Your truth. Lord, we wait earnestly for Your coming again - that glorious day when You will finally be awarded the praise You deserve! Lord, whether we ascend to You through death, or at Your call in rapture, we long to see Your face. While here, keep us growing in You, using our time, resources, and skills that You have granted us wisely, and living in the way of righteousness, according to Your character. In Your Name we pray - Blessed be Your Name!

Day Twenty-One: Godly authority

A nice, short 20 minutes reading time, but covering a lot of topics!

Peter, the author of this epistle and one of the twelve apostles, was probably in Rome at the time of writing this - judging by the greeting from 'Babylon', a common alias for Rome. There are not many hints in the letter about the time, except that it is probably not long after a period of persecution, where believers were scattered from Rome. The common understanding is that this was just after Rome burned and Nero began an avid persecution of the Christians, about AD 64.

Suffering is one of the themes that keeps coming up in the letter. It is seen as temporary, within God's sovereignty, and to be endured with joy after Christ's example, trusting in God - Who has authority over our circumstances.

Holiness is another theme that runs throughout. The contrast between our old lives and the new life we have, chosen by God to be holy, set apart for Him. Linked with this is the idea of example to unbelievers. In public life, in relation to governmental authority, in the home, and indeed everywhere! By living a holy life we honour and glorify God, Who is the Cause of this change in our lives. Though others may seek to accuse us of all sorts of things, living our lives humbly according to His Word, and answering their questions respectfully and gently - this will be a witness to them, toward their repentance, or toward their judgement if they don't repent.

Humility, service, working together - all these are intertwined in the pages. Being willing to be recognised as a Christian - willing to speak about it to others - not shamefacedly, but with joy, confidence, and (in some ways) pride.

Our God and Father, we come before You seeking Your continued grace and mercy. Lord, we are continually in awe of Your sending Christ to earth, to die on our behalf. As we read and seek to understand more fully Your example of humility, Lord help us to show this same humility in dealing with each other, and with non-believers. Thank You that You are the Shepherd, the Overseer of our souls, and we can entrust ourselves to Your care. Help us to live out lives holy, set apart for Your glory, as we relate with government, non-believers, other authorities, and in the home. Grant us strength to resist temptation to sin, and fall to the old desires that are no longer characteristic of our lives Lord. In Your glorious Name, we pray.

Day Twenty: Working Righteousness

Just over 15 minutes to read through James. It's an interesting read - very different in style to Paul's letters.

Possibly the earliest of the New Testament letters, written to the 'twelve tribes scattered' - a common way of referring to the nation of Israel. Since he doesn't mention the Jerusalem Council, this is probably before that occasion, during one of the series of persecutions. At the Jerusalem Council, the Gentiles were recognised as being equal recipients of the grace of God - before that time, the Gentiles coming in were considered to be 'under the umbrella' of Israel, and thus we can see that the 'twelve tribes' is therefore indicative of all believers, and is equally applicable to us. The author James is evidently well-known, because he doesn't give any introduction of himself personally, and due to this and other hints in Acts and the various epistles, it is agreed that the author is James, son of Joseph and Mary, and brother of Jude - making him the half-brother of Christ. He was a 'pillar of the church' at Jerusalem, and therefore had a reputation that would justify the greeting in this letter with little introduction. It is significant that he doesn't list his blood relationship with Christ, but simply calls himself a servant of God and the Lord Jesus Christ.

James is a very practical letter - it is not primarily a doctrinal letter, although we can see the doctrine that underlines the passages. He is writing to believers (or at least people who consider themselves believers), and he does not touch much on salvation, except in a past sense. There is a strong emphasis on a life consistent with belief in God - again and again hypocrisy is condemned, apathy and compartmentalisation is condemned, and elitism is condemned. He assumes knowledge of salvation and faith, and shows how they cannot stand alone unseen by others and be genuine - the genuine will be evident to those around. It is both a statement of fact, and an encouragement to live this out even more - to embrace the fact. The teachings are in many ways a test - for those with genuine faith, it is an assurance and encouragement to go on; the people without genuine faith are shown for what they are - and the tests provide a means for us to examine our own lives, and be aware of false profession by others.

James gets right into the thick of it straight-away. Starting out with the circumstances of persecution, he shows that with the wisdom that God has already promised, we can have joy in difficult times - not necessarily because of the difficult times, but because of their results, and confidence in God's sovereignty. Some translations use different words for 'temptation' or 'trial' between the first twelve verses, and from verse thirteen on - in the Greek the root word is the same, but the early section uses a noun to speak of external temptation, and from verse thirteen it uses the verb form, which focuses on the active part, and indicates internal temptation.
We see the corollary to Hebrews looked at yesterday - Christ was tempted in all points like we are (yet without sin), and here we see that God cannot be tempted. The difference is a bit like our own lives - we can be tempted to do evil and resist it without sin, but as soon as is takes root in our desires (lusts), we sin - God can never sin. He is Righteous and Holy, and there is no lust or sin in Him.

James goes on to talk about our speech, and the importance of meekness and listening. There is a saying I like about meekness - "Meekness is not weakness, but strength under control" - important to remember. He then goes on into the responsibility of acting upon what we have heard, and the evidence of a person that is not genuine, and the evidence of the genuine.

The idea hinted earlier about elitism is expounded further with an example of both poor and rich entering a church. There is nothing wrong with how the rich is treated - it is the treatment of the poor that is wrong, and the difference of treatment between them based solely on their wealth. Another important teaching about how even minor infractions of the law means that we have broken the law - nothing can be 'glossed over' - once it is broken at all, we have no longer met the perfection the law demands. He also shows the futility of trying to claim that belief by itself is enough  - it doesn't help anyone, and even the demons believe the truth!

Looking more closely at teachers, James calls them to understand the seriousness of the role they are considering. Their speech is more important and more influential than others, and thus they have even more responsibility to guard their tongue, and seeking heavenly wisdom. Responsibility that we all have, but especially teachers.

He goes on to show the perverseness of a life ruled by lusts and pride, and how to combat it by submitting and drawing near to God. Not just drawing near by words either - but by cleansing and purifying our lives, through His power. This humbling of ourselves is in contrast to those who build themselves up by condemning others' actions, and not looking to their own.

Returning to wealth and the pursuit of worldly gain, he exhorts us to be humble in all we do, and remember our lives are in God's hands. We must also be just in our dealings with others, and not cheat them for our gain (or others' gain, for that matter). Without mentioning it directly, he is basically preaching against allowing money to be our god.

He concludes with encouragement concerning suffering and persecutions, and talks about the way we are to love each other during these times. Remaining confident in God, relying on God, supporting each other in the community in prayer and by meeting physical needs (anointing with oil in this context seems to be oil for massaging sore muscles). The importance of prayer both for ourselves and others is emphasised, and forgiveness associated with a repentant person's prayer.

O Lord, we seek You and Your wisdom as we live here on earth. Grant us this, as You have promised, that we might know how to respond appropriately in all circumstances. Lord, keep us from pride and arrogance, but keep us humble, and draw us near to You - search our hearts, and purify our lives, Lord - may we listen to You, and cleanse our lives of anything repulsive to You. Lord, thank You for the privilege of prayer. Thank you for leading us in this way of dependence upon Yourself, and moulding our hearts to Yours. May our lives shine as a lamp on the hill, evident to all around, despite any persecution, animosity, apathy, and malice around us - let us shine to Your glory, and not our own.

Day Nineteen: The Christ of the New Covenant

Only just over the time estimate this time - 50 minutes for the whole epistle.

Interesting that there is no author's name for this book. There are many theories, but none conclusive. Though the original recipients must have known, since the author does say 'I will see you soon' at the end, this information has not been preserved for us, and we must accept it in its anonymity. All we know is that he was an associate of Timothy, and probably a respected leader of the church at the time. In a way, the anonymity is a lesson to us, because the only person we can give credit to is God, the Holy Spirit - Who inspired all of Scripture, this letter, and all the rest of the NT.

There are a number of themes throughout this book  - and it covers a number of important doctrinal principles in-depth. Primary among these themes is an exposition of Christ, His glory, and His willing humility. We see also a number of contrasts drawn between the Old and the New Covenants, showing the superiority of the new way that Christ has made possible to the old system. Faith, and the importance and character of belief keeps occurring, and the outworking of that faith is exhorted both by teaching and example.

Now for a summary of the thoughts in the book, with these overall themes shown in each passage:

The book starts with a reflection of the many ways and times in which God revealed Himself in the past - and the change from times past as we now hear from His Son, and not just ordinary prophets. This sets the scene for the teaching to follow.

We see the Son glorified, superior to the angels. The angels are associated with the giving of the law at Mount Sinai - this was shown to be reliable - so pay attention to the Son, Who is superior to the angels. The salvation we know was declared by the Son, and confirmed with miraculous signs of God. We see this Son as ruler, with all power given to Him, and yet He chose to lay aside that power and control. He became fully human - taking the name Jesus (deliverer), in order to walk as one of us, to participate in life as we do, and yet without sin - so that He might better help us in our walk in this world, as we can feel empathy with Him - that He might die, and destroy death, and deliver us from our sins.

Having accomplished this work, we see Him as Apostle (One Who is sent to speak for Another [God]) and High Priest (One Who represents us before God). In this, we see Him as greater than Moses - also associated with the founding of the law - Moses was faithful, but not as great as Christ. Moses was a faithful testimony - and we also must faithfully hold fast to the hope (assurance) given to us. Unbelief will keep us from God, and we must examine ourselves that we are not deceiving ourselves, thinking we believe but really holding back - for false belief will cause us to fall away. But true belief will never fail, but will be strengthened, and stand fast to the end, and we are entered into His rest. Oh, what joy it is to have that peace, joy, and assurance of entering into the rest of God! Resting in Him! We enter His rest through the testimony of the active Word of God - and everyone who hears is responsible for his choices to accept it or reject it.

We continue with greater exposition of Christ as High Priest. We see Him as able to fulfil the role perfectly, being eminently qualified. We see Him as superior to the priests of the Levitical system - they died, but He continues ever.

Abruptly, Paul stops - he wants to continue, but the readers will not understand, because they do not grasp properly the basic truths, despite having heard them before many times. So he goes over the need to be firmly founded in the doctrine of Christ, but to continue on growing in spiritual maturity, and not falling back into the old system of external signs. Again we see the responsibility of those hearing the Word of God to respond - and the curse upon them if they still choose to reject Him, even after coming so close, having 'tasted' the goodness of God - if a person knows and experiences everything that God has revealed, and still rejects Him, there is only one end in store for him. Praise God He brought me into repentance, and salvation! What assurance we have, having entered into God's family! He even chose to use the human method of swearing an oath to further assure us that His promises are sure - He cannot lie!

Again, we return to the picture of the high priest, using the 'type' of Melchisedek, whose story is in Genesis 14. A great study for another time to go through all these similarities and what it reveals about Christ, but the whole point is again, His superiority.

He is also superior in having completed the work - the Levitical priests never actually atoned for any sins - otherwise they could theoretically have finished at some point - but there was no possible way for them to finish, because they did not pay for any sin. Whereas Christ did pay for all sin, and the work is finished - no more sacrifices! This sacrifice is the basis for the New Covenant - and instead of being external, it is internal, because it changes things on the inside, the spirit.

The new temple is also superior - the earthly one was just a shadow of the true temple, in heaven. His blood offered was superior to the blood of livestock. The Old Covenant dealt with copies of things - the New Covenant deals with the originals in all their glory. The law was just a shadow - and could make nothing perfect, but Christ has made us perfect. There is no longer anything blocking us, as there was before, from the presence of God - we have full access, being made perfect in and through Him, we are accepted in God's presence! We cannot keep living in sin - we now live in love and show our love in good works and encouraging each other in Christ. The Lord will judge. He will judge those that keep living in sin, those that reject Him - it is not our vengeance to take, but His. We can have joy and contentment in suffering, because we have a heavenly possession - and trust Him to deal justly with the oppressors.

We are led into some great teaching about what faith is, and how it shows itself in the life of believers. Great testimonies, great examples, and as the writer says near the end - the list is not short for want of examples, there are many more! The examples include Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob - important to the Jews, as they knew God as the 'God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob'. All in this chapter are like witnesses to us - not that they see us, but by their deeds they set an example that we should follow - and knowing this, we are accountable to show faith in God like they did. We have even more responsibility than them - they looked forward to the promises, trusting in God - we have the benefit of the promises already being fulfilled, so we have even more assurance!

Practically outworking this faith, we must get rid of everything that holds us back - both sin and those good things that are not sinful, but are not 'best', because they hinder us from the best. Christ has gone before us, and endured much more than we ever will - He will go with us - how can we not endure whatever life throws at us? Rejoice in discipline - God is purifying you, and His discipline is a blessing, because of its results, and as a proof He cares about improving and maturing you. Keep on living uprightly - for our kingdom is in heaven, not on earth. Love one another, and esteem marriage in honour - keeping the beauty of sexual intimacy He has granted us within the bounds he has designed it for. Don't love the things of this world, but stand firm in the Word of God. Praise God, obey spiritual leaders who teach of God, and pray for them.

He conclude with a prayer for his readers, showing by example how he lives as he preaches.



Christ, You, Who are glorified and seated on the right hand of the Majestic Jehovah God, in Your rightful place, being God in Person! Lord and Christ, we extol You for all You have done - how that You were willing, though deserving of all glory and honour, chose to descend to earth, laying aside Your glory and dignity, becoming lower than the angels, and suffering death as one of us. Lord we glory in Your death and resurrection, Your triumph and victory as You completed the perfect sacrifice that once for all truly atoned for all our sin! We come in faith, Lord - we can come through nothing else, for all we have or do is worthless to save us. Lord, as we see these great examples of faith outlined in Scripture, we pray for Your continued preservation, grace, and guidance as we live out our lives in faith. Strengthen our faith Lord, and use our lives to Your Glory. Lord, we know You have suffered temptation like us, but unlike us, You did not sin - could not sin. Lord, thank You for that promise that You will not allow us to be tempted above what we can bear, and for the assurance that You will grant us power to escape any temptation. Help us to rejoice in the discipline, sufferings, and temptations You allow in our lives Lord - help us to use those times to grow closer to You, to learn from You, and be more moulded into Your glorious Image. Praise be Yours forever and eternity, Lord, our Saviour, and High Priest.

Day Eighteen: A transformed slave

The shortest of Paul's letters, Philemon only takes a couple of minutes to read through, but the words it contains are rich! A personal letter, about a personal matter - but notice how it all revolves around Christ.

The theme of this letter is the transformation that has occurred - both in Onesimus and Philemon. Onesimus was a runaway - breaking the law and shirking responsibility. After salvation, he was a fruitful worker with Paul, and was willing to travel back to his master, accepting responsibility for his actions. Paul appeals to Philemon through the transformation that has taken place in Philemon's life, too. Philemon was saved at Ephesus under Paul, and the transformation in his life showed through his witness to the city of Colosse, and the establishing of a church that met in his house. As he has experienced love from God, Paul asks him to show that love toward Onesimus. It shows the relationship between fellow believers on matters such as this too - not one of compulsion, but loving requests.

Lord, we thank You for the transformation that You have wrought in us, and the love You have given us. Help us to treat all brothers and sisters in love, as we have received love from You. We pray for Your guidance, and trust in Your provision for all the saints. Blessed be Your Name, O Lord! Blessed be Your Name.

Day Seventeen: Putting lives in order

Forgot to notice the time I stopped reading this time! I think it was about the 5 min mark.

Many parallels here to 1 Timothy  -  both letters were written about the same time, and both written to younger men Paul had left in charge of growing churches.Titus was located in Crete, and is ministering there, at least until others come to take up the work (Artemus and/or Tychicus). He was heavily involved with the church at Corinth, as seen by his many mentions in 2 Corinthians, during Paul's 3rd missionary journey.

Great visual depiction of the outline of the book in that image in the intro. I like the venn diagram system of overlapping emphasis and the way they have 'godly people' showing in a different font with two ways of using the two words.

Putting that aside for now, though, I would relate the theme of the book as 'order'. First we have God, putting things in order (in the proper time), and then we lead in to the instruction to Titus to put the leadership in order, so that they may lead according to God's order (way of doing things). We see the false teachers being condemned - they are putting things out of order, upsetting families with deceit and false teaching. Titus is also to teach the people to be in order - he is to teach the proper roles for the old and the young men, and the older women. Interesting to note that he is not directed to teach the younger women specifically - that role is left to the older women, and this gives us some indication of the practical out-workings of a pure and blameless life that is required for a leader. He is to put his own life in order, that he might be an example. Slaves (employees)  must also live their lives in God's order, as serving God, not man.
And why? Because God has wonderfully wrought salvation for us, that we might escape the entrapment of the world, and live purified and orderly lives in Him, waiting for that blessed day when He comes for us.
While we remain here on earth, though, we must participate in the order of the land we are in, subject to authority that God has placed over us. To be orderly in our relationships with people, not quarrelsome, but courteous. Focusing on Christ, and standing firm in His Righteousness, justified freely by His grace - not listening to those who preach otherwise, causing division. If they do, and refuse to listen to the truth and warnings, they should be cut off from the church, to prevent their influence.

Lord, thank You for Your glorious order revealed for our lives in Your Word. Thank You for the blessing of the authorities and leaders You have placed over us, exhorting us and leading us according to Your Word. And Lord, may we learn to discern truth from error and recognise those who would try to teach any thought that detracts from Your glorious work and grace given to us - any quarrel that detracts from the beauty and glory of Your Name - any suggestion that You are not trustworthy, or Your salvation is not enough. Lord, strengthen those of us You have called to be leaders. Help us to know when to teach, when to encourage, when to exhort, when to rebuke, when to condemn, and when to cut off. Guide us in Your truth, and never let us lose sight of Your centrality to the message preached. You are the centre of our lives, Lord. May we by Your grace show this by example to others.

Day Sixteen: Rejoicing in life and death

Still not sure how someone can get through 4 chapters in 5 minutes! 10 minutes for me, and a very interesting read, considering how the world thinks about death compared to Paul's thoughts.

As the intro states, this is Paul's last letter, written during his imprisonment in Rome - not the time recorded in Acts, but after his release and continue work for God, he was again imprisoned and this time he was executed. Interesting notes about a couple of characters we have seen before. Mark is mentioned here, as a valued brother and friend of Paul; when we saw him in Acts there was a dispute between Paul and Barnabas over his desertion from a mission trip: his inclusion here indicates the relationship is reconciled. Demas is also mentioned, but this is the opposite case, where someone previously recorded as a worker with Paul has now turned to the world and its attractions, rejecting God.

Paul is well aware of his impending death. Not in denial about it, nor angry, nor sorrowful, he shows joy. He knows he has served the Lord well since his conversion on the way to Damascus, and that his time on earth has come to an end - he is ready to see his Lord face to face. He rejoices both in what God has brought about in his life, and the anticipation of Heaven.

Knowing he must leave, he seeks to encourage Timothy (and others) again before he leaves. The life of a Christian is not easy, especially as a Christian leader. He exhorts Timothy to be confident in the truth, in preaching the gospel, in the knowledge of the divine inspiration of the Scriptures. To be bold in correcting false doctrine, but gently - in grace, but with firmness upholding the truth - God may bring them to repentance. Sometimes reproof is called for, sometimes a harsher rebuke. He warns again of the persecution that will arise, the decadence of society, and the tendency to ignorant quarrels about nothing important. As in all his previous letters, he continues to exhort him to live a life of example, riding his life of iniquity - focusing on the Godly desires and pursuits. And all this he teaches and we live, because of Christ, and all He has done for us, as Paul reminds us again and again through his letters of this wonderful Foundation, Source, Anchor, and Fountain.

I've seen the movie bucket list - haven't seen the other two items linked there. Watched the trailer for 'Tuesdays', but didn't gather much from it. The lecture, I didn't watch much of, just skipped here and there a bit to get a feel for it. Not really impressed - just seems to be a lot of rhetoric common in today's society - although I can't form an authoritative view, since I didn't watch the whole thing. The Bucket List is another story - I really enjoyed the movie, but in terms of the philosophy it taught - it was really boiled down to 'you deserve to have a bit of fun while you can' and 'remember the important things in life' / 'find the joy in your life' (family). Paul, on the other hand, focuses our eyes heavenward, and teaches us to live in the light of the knowledge we have been granted. There is a passion for sharing the good news given to us, a compassion for those who are on the path to hell, a concern for people who might be deceived by false doctrine, a zealousness for God's name that He might be glorified and not grieved by our lives.

Lord, we lift our eyes heavenward to You, and we rejoice in the hope and assurance You have granted. Lord help us to follow the example of Godly men like Paul, who lived to please You, willingly suffering for Your Name, and preaching Your Word whether there was opposition or not. Lord by Your Spirit, keep bringing to our remembrance the things that we have learned, that we might walk in them, and live worthy of Your calling. Our strength and confidence is in You.

Day Fifteen: Leading by example

Read this one in just over 15 min this time, just a bit longer than the estimate.

Quite a change as we head into the pastoral epistles (those written to Timothy and Titus). These epistles are written later in Paul's life than the doctrinal epistles we have been working through - after the book of Acts finishes its record, and after Paul gets released from the first imprisonment.

Writing to Timothy, Paul's young protégée, probably mid thirties by now, and Paul is encouraging him in the leadership of the church in Ephesus. It is a very practical letter, and it seems at points quite formal for the close relationship Paul and Timothy had - possibly indicating that Paul intended this epistle to show to some of the other teachers that though young, Timothy knew what he was talking about, and had Paul's support behind him.

Throughout the epistle, I noticed a theme of leadership by example, and living out what you say. First of all, you must be sure that what you say is true, and beneficial - not getting tied up in wild theories or other nonsense that distracts from the true gospel. Paul continues by recounting both his authority from Christ and humility before Christ to lend weight to what he says.

Paul exhorts Timothy to pray for those in authority, earnest, interceding prayer, not just routine 'get it over and done with' prayer. He goes on to remind Timothy to respect and teach of the different roles men and women play in ministry, offering justification for this against those who oppose it. Neither role is better or worse, we are all equal in worth, and God designed us to fulfil different roles so we could complement each other. Both men and women should lead Godly lives as an example to others.

The qualification for overseers (elders) and deacons are listed, essentially that they must be spiritual leaders of their own lives and household first, before attempting to lead in God's house. They must also be granted the skills by God to do the task required, and be well thought of (respected) by outsiders.

Paul goes on to warn about false doctrines that would arise, and to be ready for them. Meanwhile, Timothy is to work with the other leaders, and train spiritually - working hard, and teaching with authority.

Widows also are meant to live Godly lives as examples, and rules are included here to limit people committing  their lives to the church and expecting to be supported, but then just becoming gossips and busybodies. Instead, the church should look after those that do need help and are living in a Godly way.

Elders who live Godly lives are to be honoured (even more than others), but they are held to a high standard in a public position, and if they sin, they must be rebuked publicly also.

Paul finishes by exhorting Timothy to watch out for people distorting the gospel, and to fight the fight of faith in God. People encouraging unprofitable debates and arguments, people who slander and envy, people who take pride in material possessions - all are indicative of false preachers. Paul also exhorts him not to let the rich people take pride in their wealth - they should put their trust in God, not material things or worldly knowledge.

Lord, You have granted us many skills, gifts, and resources! Often times we struggle to know what we should do with them all, to make wise use of them for You. Help us listen to Your guidance Lord. Help us to accept and embrace the roles that You have designed for us as men and women of God, some serving as teachers, leaders, ministers of the church - others of us behind the scenes, working quietly for You in ways often unrecognised - but You still see. Lord thank You for the diversity of gifts and skills! Thank You for the skills You have given me! Help us lead others by example, Lord, and we pray for all in authority over us, both spiritually and governmentally, that they would lead by Godly example, leading lives according to Your Word.