Psalm 8 " O Lord ( Yahweh) our Lord ( Adoni), How majestic is Your Name in all the earth."
The self-existent One who reveals Himself, our Sovereign ruler, our Master - Your name is majestic - large, powerful, excellent, famous, gallant, glorious, noble, worthy, mighty!
You have "displayed Thy splendor above the heavens".
You have "established strength " from the mouths of children.
Lord, we consider all of Your creation and wonder at the vastness of it all... the moon and the stars that You have placed in the heavens, securely and purposely... and it makes us wonder why You even think of us.
Yet, You sent Your Son, making Him like us, and have crowned Him with "glory and majesty".
He rules "over the works of Your hands."
You have put "all things under his feet".
Lord God, our Father, Your name is majestic! There is no other name that is as powerful, or noble. There is no other name that is excellent or worthy . Help us to keep our eyes on You. To always consider the works of Your hands and the grace of You love. You have chosen to save us. You have chosen to redeem us and to adopt us, to make us holy as You are holy. We are in awe of that truth!
Keep us in that wonder and awe, even as we walk in this weary land. We pray this is the majestic Name of Jesus our Lord, amen.
Tuesday, June 28, 2016
Friday, June 24, 2016
Hebrews 13 instructs believers in specific ways that our lives testify of our faith;
The love we have for one another is the most important testimony of our faith.
Showing hospitality.
Remembering those imprisoned for their faith.. also those ill-treated.
Honoring the institution of marriage is vital.
Being free from the love of money and being content with what we have.
Confidence in the fact that God will never forsake us, that He is our Helper and we do not need to fear man.
We are to ".... continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name."
We are to firmly believe that Jesus is "the same yesterday and today,yes and forever."
We are to stay away from false teachings and fully live in dependence upon the grace of our Lord Jesus. Trusting not in the blood of animals or the old covenant, but in Jesus alone.
We are to do good and share with others.
We are to obey and submit to our leaders, those responsible for keeping "watch over our souls".
" Now the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the eternal covenant, even Jesus our Lord, equip you in every good thing to do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory forever and ever. amen. "
Amen!
The love we have for one another is the most important testimony of our faith.
Showing hospitality.
Remembering those imprisoned for their faith.. also those ill-treated.
Honoring the institution of marriage is vital.
Being free from the love of money and being content with what we have.
Confidence in the fact that God will never forsake us, that He is our Helper and we do not need to fear man.
We are to ".... continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name."
We are to firmly believe that Jesus is "the same yesterday and today,yes and forever."
We are to stay away from false teachings and fully live in dependence upon the grace of our Lord Jesus. Trusting not in the blood of animals or the old covenant, but in Jesus alone.
We are to do good and share with others.
We are to obey and submit to our leaders, those responsible for keeping "watch over our souls".
" Now the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the eternal covenant, even Jesus our Lord, equip you in every good thing to do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory forever and ever. amen. "
Amen!
Wednesday, June 22, 2016
Hebrews 12:18-29 Our position with God, as His children who live by faith and who follow the examples that came before us, is so much greater than before.
The Jewish religion centered around the Law that was established at Mount Sinai. The people came out of Egypt and met God at that mountain. A mountain that they were warned not to even touch!
There was fire.
There was darkness.
There was a whirlwind.
There was a trumpet blast.
There was the thundering voice of God that made them tremble. In fact we are told that the whole mountain "quaked violently" as "the Lord came down on Mount Sinai".
The New Covenant, in contrast is centered in Mount Zion, the "city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem."
Where there are "myriads of angels".
Where the "general assembly and church of the first born who are enrolled in heaven" abide.
Where "God, the Judge of all" reigns.
Where the "spirits of righteous men made perfect" dwell.
And, where "Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant... and sprinkled blood... better than the blood of Abel." ministers.
There was a warning spoken to the people at Mount Sinai, a warning from God's own voice that shook the earth. But a second warning has been given. Haggai 2:6 "For thus says the Lord of hosts, Once more in a little while, I am going to shake the heavens and the earth, the sea also and the dry land. And I will shake all the nations ; and I will fill this house with glory, says the Lord of hosts."
Hebrews 12:27-29 tells us that all things that have been created will be shaken and that only God's Kingdom, which cannot be shaken, will remain. "Therefore... let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God and acceptable service with reverence and awe; for our God is a consuming fire."
Those who were disobedient and failed to heed the first warning did not escape God's judgement. And even more so, those of us who have become the children of God, must heed the second warning to "not refuse Him who is speaking". We must not turn away from Him in any way.
Father in heaven, Your Name is holy! You are our Great and Mighty God, a consuming fire. Your ways are perfect and Your will is altogether wonderful. May it be done on earth as it is in heaven.
We long for the day when Your Kingdom comes in all fulness, when this present corrupt earth is swept away and a new heaven and earth will be established. Yet Father, I pray for those who are still walking in darkness and rebellion. Please change their hearts and open their eyes. May they hear Your voice and not harden their hearts I ask You in the Name of Jesus. Amen.
The Jewish religion centered around the Law that was established at Mount Sinai. The people came out of Egypt and met God at that mountain. A mountain that they were warned not to even touch!
There was fire.
There was darkness.
There was a whirlwind.
There was a trumpet blast.
There was the thundering voice of God that made them tremble. In fact we are told that the whole mountain "quaked violently" as "the Lord came down on Mount Sinai".
The New Covenant, in contrast is centered in Mount Zion, the "city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem."
Where there are "myriads of angels".
Where the "general assembly and church of the first born who are enrolled in heaven" abide.
Where "God, the Judge of all" reigns.
Where the "spirits of righteous men made perfect" dwell.
And, where "Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant... and sprinkled blood... better than the blood of Abel." ministers.
There was a warning spoken to the people at Mount Sinai, a warning from God's own voice that shook the earth. But a second warning has been given. Haggai 2:6 "For thus says the Lord of hosts, Once more in a little while, I am going to shake the heavens and the earth, the sea also and the dry land. And I will shake all the nations ; and I will fill this house with glory, says the Lord of hosts."
Hebrews 12:27-29 tells us that all things that have been created will be shaken and that only God's Kingdom, which cannot be shaken, will remain. "Therefore... let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God and acceptable service with reverence and awe; for our God is a consuming fire."
Those who were disobedient and failed to heed the first warning did not escape God's judgement. And even more so, those of us who have become the children of God, must heed the second warning to "not refuse Him who is speaking". We must not turn away from Him in any way.
Father in heaven, Your Name is holy! You are our Great and Mighty God, a consuming fire. Your ways are perfect and Your will is altogether wonderful. May it be done on earth as it is in heaven.
We long for the day when Your Kingdom comes in all fulness, when this present corrupt earth is swept away and a new heaven and earth will be established. Yet Father, I pray for those who are still walking in darkness and rebellion. Please change their hearts and open their eyes. May they hear Your voice and not harden their hearts I ask You in the Name of Jesus. Amen.
Tuesday, June 21, 2016
Hebrews 12: 4-11 The discipline of the Father is proof of His love, this passage tells us. The Greek word is "paideuo" - to train up a child; to educate , chasten, instruct, learn, teach... The discipliner is one who is a trainer, a teacher, an instructor. It may involve punishment or chastisement, but that is only a part of the training process, for correction.
The quote in verses 5-6 reflect on Proverbs 3:11-12
"My son, do not reject the discipline of the Lord, or loathe His reproof, for whom the Lord loves He reproves, even as a father, the son in whom he delights." Also, Job 5:17 "Behold how happy is the man whom God reproves, so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty."
In these verses, the word for discipline is the Hebrew word "muwcar" - chastisement, reproof, warning, or instruction. Reproof is from the Hebrew word "towkachath" - chastisement, correction, refutation, proof, argument, reasoning or rebuke.
We can trust our Heavenly Father for He loves us and treats us "as with sons".
v 7 "It is for discipline that you endure..." The Bible Knowledge Commentary indicates that this statement is meant to remind us that when we go through hardships, which we will all do at times in our lives, we can be encouraged by the fact that God loves us and will use this to discipline or teach us, for we are His children. Illegitimate children, those with no inheritance rights, are "without discipline". (v8)
Our Father disciplines us "for our good". He, "the Father of our spirits" disciplines us that we might live, and so that our lives will produce the "peaceful fruit of righteousness." He desires for us to "share His holiness". Wonderful results are produced as we subject ourselves to our Heavenly Father.
When we receive His discipline and are trained by Him for the His purposes we know His love for us and we testify that we are His children. Because of this we are asked to :
v12 - "strengthen the hands of the weak and the knees of the feeble" Help each other to walk on the "straight paths".
v14 "Pursue peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord."
v15 We are to also " see to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble and by it many be defiled."
v16 and that " there be no immoral or godless person
To do these things - reveals a life that has received God's training.
Father in Heaven, have Your own way in me today. Amen.
The quote in verses 5-6 reflect on Proverbs 3:11-12
"My son, do not reject the discipline of the Lord, or loathe His reproof, for whom the Lord loves He reproves, even as a father, the son in whom he delights." Also, Job 5:17 "Behold how happy is the man whom God reproves, so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty."
In these verses, the word for discipline is the Hebrew word "muwcar" - chastisement, reproof, warning, or instruction. Reproof is from the Hebrew word "towkachath" - chastisement, correction, refutation, proof, argument, reasoning or rebuke.
We can trust our Heavenly Father for He loves us and treats us "as with sons".
v 7 "It is for discipline that you endure..." The Bible Knowledge Commentary indicates that this statement is meant to remind us that when we go through hardships, which we will all do at times in our lives, we can be encouraged by the fact that God loves us and will use this to discipline or teach us, for we are His children. Illegitimate children, those with no inheritance rights, are "without discipline". (v8)
Our Father disciplines us "for our good". He, "the Father of our spirits" disciplines us that we might live, and so that our lives will produce the "peaceful fruit of righteousness." He desires for us to "share His holiness". Wonderful results are produced as we subject ourselves to our Heavenly Father.
When we receive His discipline and are trained by Him for the His purposes we know His love for us and we testify that we are His children. Because of this we are asked to :
v12 - "strengthen the hands of the weak and the knees of the feeble" Help each other to walk on the "straight paths".
v14 "Pursue peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord."
v15 We are to also " see to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble and by it many be defiled."
v16 and that " there be no immoral or godless person
To do these things - reveals a life that has received God's training.
Father in Heaven, have Your own way in me today. Amen.
Monday, June 20, 2016
Hebrews 12 All of these "men ( and women) of old" have left us their testimonies, their lives witness to us of their faith. They prove to us that it is worth it all... to walk with God in faith, for that which was "unseen" during their mortal lives, their greatest hopes have come true for them and much, much more than they could even imagine or hope...
We, too, can "lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us," and "run with endurance the race that is set before us." We must walk by faith.. to please God, to gain His approval, and to receive the promise of eternity.
" ... fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith , who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you may not grow weary and lose heart." ( v2-3) The ultimate and final witness to us is Jesus Himself. If we can gain courage and hope through the testimony of men and women who lived before us.. how much more can we gain from our perfect Savior, Jesus!
For He is the author of faith - the chief leader, the ruler, the principal of faith. The word signifies the commencement - the beginning - thus the author. And He is also the "perfecter" of faith - the finisher - consummator, the completer. Jesus is the alpha and omega, the beginning and the end.. of all things, including faith. He lived it out before us. "..who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God".
Look to Jesus, consider Him... the perfect example of a life lived in faith. The writer encourages us.. gives us the courage to also walk in faith - there is a joy set before us also - in a city not built with hands! Whatever we must endure in this life, it will be worth it all... !!!!
Yes, it can be hard.. but "you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding blood in your striving against sin;" We haven't even come close to that, have we?
Father in heaven, how wonderful and gracious You are! You are the One who heals us and forgives us. You save us through faith in Jesus, Who is the author and finisher of faith. Complete Your will in us, Oh Lord. We want to run with endurance the race that You have set before us, laying aside any encumbrance, to please You and to gain a testimony of Your approval. In Christ Jesus we come and ask for help by Your Holy Spirit, Amen.
We, too, can "lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us," and "run with endurance the race that is set before us." We must walk by faith.. to please God, to gain His approval, and to receive the promise of eternity.
" ... fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith , who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you may not grow weary and lose heart." ( v2-3) The ultimate and final witness to us is Jesus Himself. If we can gain courage and hope through the testimony of men and women who lived before us.. how much more can we gain from our perfect Savior, Jesus!
For He is the author of faith - the chief leader, the ruler, the principal of faith. The word signifies the commencement - the beginning - thus the author. And He is also the "perfecter" of faith - the finisher - consummator, the completer. Jesus is the alpha and omega, the beginning and the end.. of all things, including faith. He lived it out before us. "..who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God".
Look to Jesus, consider Him... the perfect example of a life lived in faith. The writer encourages us.. gives us the courage to also walk in faith - there is a joy set before us also - in a city not built with hands! Whatever we must endure in this life, it will be worth it all... !!!!
Yes, it can be hard.. but "you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding blood in your striving against sin;" We haven't even come close to that, have we?
Father in heaven, how wonderful and gracious You are! You are the One who heals us and forgives us. You save us through faith in Jesus, Who is the author and finisher of faith. Complete Your will in us, Oh Lord. We want to run with endurance the race that You have set before us, laying aside any encumbrance, to please You and to gain a testimony of Your approval. In Christ Jesus we come and ask for help by Your Holy Spirit, Amen.
Friday, June 17, 2016
Hebrews 11 Each of the people mentioned in this well known account have a testimony to give us; they lived and walked by faith in the One and only True God. God was pleased by their faith and commended them for it.
God commended Abel for offering a worthy sacrifice and He called him righteous. (v4)
God commended Enoch for pleasing Him by his faith, and He took him into heaven. (v5)
God commended Noah for believing the warning given to him and in reverent faith, building the ark. God rewarded him and he "became an heir of the righteousness which is according to faith." (v7)
God commended Abraham for obeying Him, going to an unknown land, living as an alien in a nation promised to him and to his offspring, and believing God's promises for an eternal city. (v8-10)
God commended Sarah for considering Him faithful and rewarded her with a son. (v11)
Verses 13-16 are an interlude in this roster of "men of old" who gained God's approval by their faith.
It tells us that they "died in faith, without receiving the promises, but having seen them and having welcomed them from a distance, and having confessed that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. " The promises they clung to most were the ones that would not be fulfilled on this earth, but in heaven. " But as it is, they desire a better country, that is a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; for He has prepared a city for them. "
God commended Abraham for obediently offering up Isaac. For Abraham "considered that God is able to raise men even from the dead..." And God gave Isaac back to him.
God commended Isaac for his faith in blessing Jacob and Esau, "even regarding things to come".
God commended Jacob, who by faith blessed each of his sons, "and worshiped, leaning on the top of his staff."
God commended Joseph, who by faith looked ahead to the "exodus of the sons of Israel and gave orders concerning his bones."
God commended the parents of Moses, who hid him from the kings edict. And He commended Moses who:
- chose to identify with his own people in suffering instead of the "passing pleasures of sin; considering the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt; for he was looking to the reward,"
-left Egypt, came back to gather his people, and "By faith he kept the Passover and the sprinkling of the blood, so that he who destroyed the firstborn might not touch them."
-passed through the Red Sea on dry ground.
By faith:
the walls of Jericho fell.
Rahab was delivered;
Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and the prophets "conquered kingdoms, performed acts of righteousness, obtained promises, shut the mouths of lions, quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, from weakness were made strong, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight... "
But others suffered in their faith, believing in a "better resurrection" - they were:
tortured
mocked
scourged
imprisoned
stoned
sawn in two
tempted
slain with a sword
made destitute
afflicted
ill-treated
".. men of whom the world was not worthy.. "
" And all these, having gained approval through their faith, did not receive what was promised, because God had provided something better for us, so that apart from us they should not be made perfect."
Each of these men and women believed that what God promised would come true, even if they would not see it in their own lifetime. They lived in faith, looking towards the things they could not see....
They trusted and obeyed God. Their hope - their expectation and anticipation - was that "better country, that is a heavenly one." Their testimony to us is this - It is worth it all!
What will we do - by faith?
Will we offer a worthy sacrifice?
Will we please Him by our faith?
Will we obey?
Will we look ahead?
Will we endure?
Will we conquer?
Will we die?
Will we consider the reproach of Christ greater than all the riches of... this world?
How will we live.. for Him?
Father in heaven, blessed is Your Name in all the earth! You alone are worthy of our praise and thanksgiving. I choose to walk by faith, persuaded and convinced that Your Word is Truth and all that You have said will be fulfilled. Oh Lord, I want to please You in every way by walking in faith, in a manner worthy of You. Fill me Holy Spirit that I may walk in obedience and hope, by faith, in Christ I pray. Amen.
God commended Abel for offering a worthy sacrifice and He called him righteous. (v4)
God commended Enoch for pleasing Him by his faith, and He took him into heaven. (v5)
God commended Noah for believing the warning given to him and in reverent faith, building the ark. God rewarded him and he "became an heir of the righteousness which is according to faith." (v7)
God commended Abraham for obeying Him, going to an unknown land, living as an alien in a nation promised to him and to his offspring, and believing God's promises for an eternal city. (v8-10)
God commended Sarah for considering Him faithful and rewarded her with a son. (v11)
Verses 13-16 are an interlude in this roster of "men of old" who gained God's approval by their faith.
It tells us that they "died in faith, without receiving the promises, but having seen them and having welcomed them from a distance, and having confessed that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. " The promises they clung to most were the ones that would not be fulfilled on this earth, but in heaven. " But as it is, they desire a better country, that is a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; for He has prepared a city for them. "
God commended Abraham for obediently offering up Isaac. For Abraham "considered that God is able to raise men even from the dead..." And God gave Isaac back to him.
God commended Isaac for his faith in blessing Jacob and Esau, "even regarding things to come".
God commended Jacob, who by faith blessed each of his sons, "and worshiped, leaning on the top of his staff."
God commended Joseph, who by faith looked ahead to the "exodus of the sons of Israel and gave orders concerning his bones."
God commended the parents of Moses, who hid him from the kings edict. And He commended Moses who:
- chose to identify with his own people in suffering instead of the "passing pleasures of sin; considering the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt; for he was looking to the reward,"
-left Egypt, came back to gather his people, and "By faith he kept the Passover and the sprinkling of the blood, so that he who destroyed the firstborn might not touch them."
-passed through the Red Sea on dry ground.
By faith:
the walls of Jericho fell.
Rahab was delivered;
Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and the prophets "conquered kingdoms, performed acts of righteousness, obtained promises, shut the mouths of lions, quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, from weakness were made strong, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight... "
But others suffered in their faith, believing in a "better resurrection" - they were:
tortured
mocked
scourged
imprisoned
stoned
sawn in two
tempted
slain with a sword
made destitute
afflicted
ill-treated
".. men of whom the world was not worthy.. "
" And all these, having gained approval through their faith, did not receive what was promised, because God had provided something better for us, so that apart from us they should not be made perfect."
Each of these men and women believed that what God promised would come true, even if they would not see it in their own lifetime. They lived in faith, looking towards the things they could not see....
They trusted and obeyed God. Their hope - their expectation and anticipation - was that "better country, that is a heavenly one." Their testimony to us is this - It is worth it all!
What will we do - by faith?
Will we offer a worthy sacrifice?
Will we please Him by our faith?
Will we obey?
Will we look ahead?
Will we endure?
Will we conquer?
Will we die?
Will we consider the reproach of Christ greater than all the riches of... this world?
How will we live.. for Him?
Father in heaven, blessed is Your Name in all the earth! You alone are worthy of our praise and thanksgiving. I choose to walk by faith, persuaded and convinced that Your Word is Truth and all that You have said will be fulfilled. Oh Lord, I want to please You in every way by walking in faith, in a manner worthy of You. Fill me Holy Spirit that I may walk in obedience and hope, by faith, in Christ I pray. Amen.
Thursday, June 16, 2016
Hebrews 11: 1-6
"Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for the conviction of things not seen. For by it the men of old gained approval."
Faith, the persuasion and conviction of the Truth and reliance upon Christ for salvation... is the
assurance/ substance - the underlying support or confidence
of things hoped for - expected, anticipated, confided
the conviction - the proof; evidence; reproof;
of things not seen.
The men of old - Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham etc.
gained approval - obtained a testimony; became a witness; gave evidence/a good report - they pleased God.
Faith pleases God. To come to Him we must be persuaded and convinced that He is the one True God and that He will reward those who "seek Him".
Abel, by faith, gave a better sacrifice. He believed what God had said. He "obtained the testimony" - he witnesses to us, even though he is dead, that he was righteous.
Enoch walked with God and pleased God, "by faith"... "for he obtained the witness".
"And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him."
Father, I want to please You by walking with You in faith. I am persuaded that Your Word is the Truth . I am relying in Christ, my Lord and Savior, for life and salvation. I am holding on to the hope that You have given. Lead me nearer. Draw me closer. Thank You Lord, for Your grace.
Amen
"Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for the conviction of things not seen. For by it the men of old gained approval."
Faith, the persuasion and conviction of the Truth and reliance upon Christ for salvation... is the
assurance/ substance - the underlying support or confidence
of things hoped for - expected, anticipated, confided
the conviction - the proof; evidence; reproof;
of things not seen.
The men of old - Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham etc.
gained approval - obtained a testimony; became a witness; gave evidence/a good report - they pleased God.
Faith pleases God. To come to Him we must be persuaded and convinced that He is the one True God and that He will reward those who "seek Him".
Abel, by faith, gave a better sacrifice. He believed what God had said. He "obtained the testimony" - he witnesses to us, even though he is dead, that he was righteous.
Enoch walked with God and pleased God, "by faith"... "for he obtained the witness".
"And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him."
Father, I want to please You by walking with You in faith. I am persuaded that Your Word is the Truth . I am relying in Christ, my Lord and Savior, for life and salvation. I am holding on to the hope that You have given. Lead me nearer. Draw me closer. Thank You Lord, for Your grace.
Amen
Wednesday, June 15, 2016
Hebrews 10 The old way - the Law - was a shadow, not the substance of what God planned for mankind. It was given for a purpose, so that we could all know the perfection of holiness that God desires for every one of His creation. A perfection that none of us could ever maintain. The sacrifices offered under the old covenant, the blood shed and the burnt offerings presented - were temporary coverings, but could not please God, especially when they were offered with unclean hands and hardened hearts.
God desires people to be holy. Since we could not do it without Him, He sent His Son, Jesus, who offered Himself for sins, "once for all". ( v10).
That One offering is sufficient for all sins, for all time. (v12)
That offering "perfected for all time those who are sanctified". (v14)
This is the new covenant that God makes with us - He will write His laws on our hearts and minds, and He will take our sins and lawless deeds and "... will remember no more".
"Now where there is forgiveness of these things, there is no longer any offering for sin." (v 18)
What Christ has given to us through His offering is a "new and living way" into the Holy of holies.
Our great high priest has opened the veil and brought us into God's Presence. So:
"let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith..." (v22)
"let us hold fast the confession of our hope..."(v23)
"let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds.."(v24)
And, let us not forsake "our own assembling together.... but encouraging one another and all the more as you see the day drawing near." ( v25)
We need to draw near, hold fast, and not forsake...
If those who violated the first covenant, the Law, were judged and punished, how much more, the writer tells us, "do you think he will deserve who has trampled under foot the Son of God, and has regarded as unclean the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified and has insulted the Spirit of grace?" and " It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God".
We must remember and remain confident in the Truth of the gospel. We need "endurance". We must not "shrink back" but continue to live by faith "to the preserving of the soul".
The day is drawing near. We need to keep fighting the good fight, stand firm in the evil day, and not shrink back from following our Lord. " For yet in a very little while, He who is coming will come, and will not delay".
Father, we see the things that have happened ( and are happening) in our nation and all over this world. We see that the Truth of the Gospel of Christ has been and is being trampled. Oh Father, help us to stand firm and endure until the day of His return. We draw near to You with sincere hearts, with full assurance of faith, holding fast our confession of hope, encouraging one another... anticipating the coming of our Lord. Keep us firmly in Your grasp we pray. Amen.
God desires people to be holy. Since we could not do it without Him, He sent His Son, Jesus, who offered Himself for sins, "once for all". ( v10).
That One offering is sufficient for all sins, for all time. (v12)
That offering "perfected for all time those who are sanctified". (v14)
This is the new covenant that God makes with us - He will write His laws on our hearts and minds, and He will take our sins and lawless deeds and "... will remember no more".
"Now where there is forgiveness of these things, there is no longer any offering for sin." (v 18)
What Christ has given to us through His offering is a "new and living way" into the Holy of holies.
Our great high priest has opened the veil and brought us into God's Presence. So:
"let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith..." (v22)
"let us hold fast the confession of our hope..."(v23)
"let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds.."(v24)
And, let us not forsake "our own assembling together.... but encouraging one another and all the more as you see the day drawing near." ( v25)
We need to draw near, hold fast, and not forsake...
If those who violated the first covenant, the Law, were judged and punished, how much more, the writer tells us, "do you think he will deserve who has trampled under foot the Son of God, and has regarded as unclean the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified and has insulted the Spirit of grace?" and " It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God".
We must remember and remain confident in the Truth of the gospel. We need "endurance". We must not "shrink back" but continue to live by faith "to the preserving of the soul".
The day is drawing near. We need to keep fighting the good fight, stand firm in the evil day, and not shrink back from following our Lord. " For yet in a very little while, He who is coming will come, and will not delay".
Father, we see the things that have happened ( and are happening) in our nation and all over this world. We see that the Truth of the Gospel of Christ has been and is being trampled. Oh Father, help us to stand firm and endure until the day of His return. We draw near to You with sincere hearts, with full assurance of faith, holding fast our confession of hope, encouraging one another... anticipating the coming of our Lord. Keep us firmly in Your grasp we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, June 14, 2016
Hebrews 9
Verses 1-10 summarize the old covenant -
A tabernacle with the outer section and the inner Holy of Holies.
The "regulations of divine worship".
The specific duties of the priesthood, in particular the regulation for the offering of atonement, once a year by the high priest.
The writer tells us that even the tabernacle itself is a "symbol for the present time" . For while the tabernacle was still standing there was not a way for worshipers to enter into God's Presence. The "gifts and sacrifices" could not "make the worshiper perfect in conscience". These laws related "only to food and drink and various washings, regulations for the body imposed until a time of reformation." (v10).
"But when Christ appeared...." As the Great High Priest, Jesus, entered the "greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made by hands, that is to say, not of this creation."
He did not bring the blood of animals, " but through His own blood, He entered the holy place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption." (v12)
The old way, with the blood of animals, was used to cleanse the outside - the flesh, but was useless to cleanse the heart.
The new way, with the blood of Christ, offered without blemish, is to cleanse our "conscience from dead works to serve the living God".
"For this reason He is the mediator of a new covenant, in order that since a death has taken place for the redemption of the transgressions that were committed under the first covenant, those who have been called may receive the promise of eternal inheritance." ( v15)
The first covenant was established by the sprinkling of blood, for Moses was instructed to sprinkle the tabernacle, the books, the people, and even the priests with the blood of animals. The new covenant was established also with blood, the blood of Christ. The heavenly tabernacle is greater for it is the true one, not the shadow.. and here is where Jesus entered "to appear in the presence of God for us"! He does not have to offer Himself year after year... but once for all! This is the "consummation of the ages".. Jesus was "manifested to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself."
But, there is more! For Christ, "having been offered once to bear the sins of many, shall appear a second time for salvation without reference to sin, to those who eagerly await Him." ( v28)
If Jesus had not come, we would still be outside the tabernacle, outside God's Presence, outside of any hope of salvation, or forgiveness of sins, and outside of His Kingdom. But, Jesus did come and completed everything that the Father requires for us to be brought into His Presence. Jesus paid the price, tore down the veil, opened the door, and calls us inside... right into the Father's House.
Father in heaven, how wonderful is Your grace towards us, that we can be called the children of God!
In Christ Jesus, we have been forgiven and made perfect in His righteousness. How amazing that You should love us this much! Thank You. Father, continue to lead us into the glory of Your Presence, to worship and praise You continually. Continue to lead us in Your paths, into Your truth, and into Your Presence this day. We look to our High Priest and Glorious Lord, Christ Jesus, for it is in His Name we pray, amen.
Verses 1-10 summarize the old covenant -
A tabernacle with the outer section and the inner Holy of Holies.
The "regulations of divine worship".
The specific duties of the priesthood, in particular the regulation for the offering of atonement, once a year by the high priest.
The writer tells us that even the tabernacle itself is a "symbol for the present time" . For while the tabernacle was still standing there was not a way for worshipers to enter into God's Presence. The "gifts and sacrifices" could not "make the worshiper perfect in conscience". These laws related "only to food and drink and various washings, regulations for the body imposed until a time of reformation." (v10).
"But when Christ appeared...." As the Great High Priest, Jesus, entered the "greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made by hands, that is to say, not of this creation."
He did not bring the blood of animals, " but through His own blood, He entered the holy place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption." (v12)
The old way, with the blood of animals, was used to cleanse the outside - the flesh, but was useless to cleanse the heart.
The new way, with the blood of Christ, offered without blemish, is to cleanse our "conscience from dead works to serve the living God".
"For this reason He is the mediator of a new covenant, in order that since a death has taken place for the redemption of the transgressions that were committed under the first covenant, those who have been called may receive the promise of eternal inheritance." ( v15)
The first covenant was established by the sprinkling of blood, for Moses was instructed to sprinkle the tabernacle, the books, the people, and even the priests with the blood of animals. The new covenant was established also with blood, the blood of Christ. The heavenly tabernacle is greater for it is the true one, not the shadow.. and here is where Jesus entered "to appear in the presence of God for us"! He does not have to offer Himself year after year... but once for all! This is the "consummation of the ages".. Jesus was "manifested to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself."
But, there is more! For Christ, "having been offered once to bear the sins of many, shall appear a second time for salvation without reference to sin, to those who eagerly await Him." ( v28)
If Jesus had not come, we would still be outside the tabernacle, outside God's Presence, outside of any hope of salvation, or forgiveness of sins, and outside of His Kingdom. But, Jesus did come and completed everything that the Father requires for us to be brought into His Presence. Jesus paid the price, tore down the veil, opened the door, and calls us inside... right into the Father's House.
Father in heaven, how wonderful is Your grace towards us, that we can be called the children of God!
In Christ Jesus, we have been forgiven and made perfect in His righteousness. How amazing that You should love us this much! Thank You. Father, continue to lead us into the glory of Your Presence, to worship and praise You continually. Continue to lead us in Your paths, into Your truth, and into Your Presence this day. We look to our High Priest and Glorious Lord, Christ Jesus, for it is in His Name we pray, amen.
Friday, June 10, 2016
Hebrews 8 continues the comparison of the old and the new...
The old covenant appointed "men as high priests who are weak";
The new covenant "appoints a Son, made perfect forever".
This is the high priest we have, Jesus, "who has taken His seat at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens".
Jesus ministers in the "true tabernacle", in heaven "pitched" by the Lord, Himself.
The tabernacle on earth was only a copy or "shadow" of God's true Sanctuary. Moses was given the exact instructions to produce this copy, but it was still only a shadow.
Jesus "has obtained a more excellent ministry by as much as He is also the mediator of a better covenant, which has been enacted on better promises." (v6)
The first covenant was not faultless. It has been made "obsolete" and has grown old and died. ( v13).
The new covenant has been established by the Lord.
The old covenant, with all of the Law, the regulations, the tabernacle, the ministers etc. could not bring men to salvation. All was external and temporary .
The new covenant starts with the internal heart and mind of men.
God Himself writes His Laws on our hearts.
He establishes the relationship - He is our God and we are His people.
He allows each individual to know Him.
He personally bestows mercy and forgiveness to each individual.
Jesus mediates this new covenant. He is the go-between, the reconciler, the intercessor.
Oh Father, the wonder of this all! The greatness of this New Covenant established by the blood of the true Lamb of God! All praise and glory to You! Jesus, my Savior, my Lord, my great high priest who mediates and intercedes for me at the right hand of the God on High. Blessing and honor and praise to You. Thank you for such a great salvation!
amen
The old covenant appointed "men as high priests who are weak";
The new covenant "appoints a Son, made perfect forever".
This is the high priest we have, Jesus, "who has taken His seat at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens".
Jesus ministers in the "true tabernacle", in heaven "pitched" by the Lord, Himself.
The tabernacle on earth was only a copy or "shadow" of God's true Sanctuary. Moses was given the exact instructions to produce this copy, but it was still only a shadow.
Jesus "has obtained a more excellent ministry by as much as He is also the mediator of a better covenant, which has been enacted on better promises." (v6)
The first covenant was not faultless. It has been made "obsolete" and has grown old and died. ( v13).
The new covenant has been established by the Lord.
The old covenant, with all of the Law, the regulations, the tabernacle, the ministers etc. could not bring men to salvation. All was external and temporary .
The new covenant starts with the internal heart and mind of men.
God Himself writes His Laws on our hearts.
He establishes the relationship - He is our God and we are His people.
He allows each individual to know Him.
He personally bestows mercy and forgiveness to each individual.
Jesus mediates this new covenant. He is the go-between, the reconciler, the intercessor.
Oh Father, the wonder of this all! The greatness of this New Covenant established by the blood of the true Lamb of God! All praise and glory to You! Jesus, my Savior, my Lord, my great high priest who mediates and intercedes for me at the right hand of the God on High. Blessing and honor and praise to You. Thank you for such a great salvation!
amen
Wednesday, June 8, 2016
Hebrews 7 Pressing on, past the elementary principals of the gospel, includes this fuller understanding of Who Christ really is, ".. a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek".
Melchizedek is a bit of a mystery. We know that he is called the king of Salem, the king of peace, and the "king of righteousness". He was a "priest of the Most High God". He met Abraham after he fought the kings that had come against him. Abraham recognized him as someone greater than himself and offered him a tenth of the spoils.. a tithe. We are told that his man had no genealogy, no mother or father. He had no beginning and no end, " but make like the Son of God, he abides a priest perpetually."
The writer tells us that this order of priesthood is greater than the order of Aaron.
The levitical priesthood is tied to the law of Moses.
The Melchizedek priesthood is tied to a different law.
The levitical priesthood depended on a physical requirement - they had to be a descendent of Aaron. But the Melchizedek priest is "according to the power of an indestructible life."
The levitical priesthood involves commandments that make nothing perfect. It is weak and useless and therefore set aside.
The Melchizedek priesthood involves a "better hope through which we draw near to God".
The levitical priesthood required no oath.
The Melchizedek priesthood was ordained by God Himself who vowed with an oath ," The Lord has sworn and will not change His mind, Thou art a priest forever"
The levitical priesthood consisted of many men, constantly replaced as they died and their descendants took over.
The Melchizedek priesthood is permanent, "He abides forever" and "He is able to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them".
The levitical priests had to offer daily sacrifices for themselves as well as the sins of the people.
The One who is our Great High Priest is "holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners and exalted above the heavens.." He does not have to offer up any sacrifices for Himself. He does not need to offer anymore sacrifices for the people, " because this He did once for all when He offered up Himself."
The levitical priests appointed by the Law are weak.
"But the word of the oath, which came after the Law, appoints a Son, made perfect forever."
Praise to our God and Father, merciful and mighty! You have given to us a perfect high priest, Jesus Christ, Who has saved us and makes intercession for us always. Your love for us is revealed in the Truth of the gospel, the good news, of our Redeemer and King. He is the King of Righteousness and the King of Peace. He is the Perfect Son and the Great High Priest... forever. Open up our understanding of the riches of these truths. Overwhelm us with the greatness of Your Majesty and power. We our so thankful for Your Word and Your Spirit, who leads us near to You through Jesus.
Amen and amen.
Melchizedek is a bit of a mystery. We know that he is called the king of Salem, the king of peace, and the "king of righteousness". He was a "priest of the Most High God". He met Abraham after he fought the kings that had come against him. Abraham recognized him as someone greater than himself and offered him a tenth of the spoils.. a tithe. We are told that his man had no genealogy, no mother or father. He had no beginning and no end, " but make like the Son of God, he abides a priest perpetually."
The writer tells us that this order of priesthood is greater than the order of Aaron.
The levitical priesthood is tied to the law of Moses.
The Melchizedek priesthood is tied to a different law.
The levitical priesthood depended on a physical requirement - they had to be a descendent of Aaron. But the Melchizedek priest is "according to the power of an indestructible life."
The levitical priesthood involves commandments that make nothing perfect. It is weak and useless and therefore set aside.
The Melchizedek priesthood involves a "better hope through which we draw near to God".
The levitical priesthood required no oath.
The Melchizedek priesthood was ordained by God Himself who vowed with an oath ," The Lord has sworn and will not change His mind, Thou art a priest forever"
The levitical priesthood consisted of many men, constantly replaced as they died and their descendants took over.
The Melchizedek priesthood is permanent, "He abides forever" and "He is able to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them".
The levitical priests had to offer daily sacrifices for themselves as well as the sins of the people.
The One who is our Great High Priest is "holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners and exalted above the heavens.." He does not have to offer up any sacrifices for Himself. He does not need to offer anymore sacrifices for the people, " because this He did once for all when He offered up Himself."
The levitical priests appointed by the Law are weak.
"But the word of the oath, which came after the Law, appoints a Son, made perfect forever."
Praise to our God and Father, merciful and mighty! You have given to us a perfect high priest, Jesus Christ, Who has saved us and makes intercession for us always. Your love for us is revealed in the Truth of the gospel, the good news, of our Redeemer and King. He is the King of Righteousness and the King of Peace. He is the Perfect Son and the Great High Priest... forever. Open up our understanding of the riches of these truths. Overwhelm us with the greatness of Your Majesty and power. We our so thankful for Your Word and Your Spirit, who leads us near to You through Jesus.
Amen and amen.
Tuesday, June 7, 2016
Hebrews 6
The foundation of our faith is the "elementary teaching" of the gospel. This includes "repentance from dead works and of faith toward God". It is the instructions on "washings and laying on of hands and the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgement." ( v 1-2)
But the writer wants us to "press on".. to go deeper in our understanding of the Truth.
Verses 4-8 talk about those who believe and then "fall away". They have:
"been enlightened"
"tasted of the heavenly gift"
"been made partakers of the Holy Spirit"
"tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come"
But, they have rejected the Lord and turned away. And the writer tells us that it is impossible to "renew them again to repentance".
He gives an illustration in verses 7-8... the rain falls on the soil, and in one case the result is useful vegetation.. a blessing. And in the other case the result is "thorns and thistles.... worthless" and "close to being cursed".
As Jesus said, " So then, you will know them by their fruits" ( Matthew 7:20)
Not everyone who says "Lord, Lord".. Jesus tells us.. are really part of His kingdom. Even though they do great things... if they don't KNOW Him, they will perish.
The writer of Hebrews gives the same sort of message...
God sees what we do and He does not forget our works.. but there is more that He desires for us.. as the writer says, " .. and we desire that each one of you show the same diligence so as to realize the full assurance of hope until the end" ( v11).. not "sluggish but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises."
Like Abraham, we must believe God's promises. We must trust His "unchangeableness". We must know that He cannot lie and be encouraged that the "hope" He has "set before us" is sure "an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil," .
Our hope is based on the One Who has enterer within the veil, Jesus, our Great High Priest.
Hope - anticipation, expectation, confidence... We are to .. find refuge by "laying hold of the hope set before us". We are to anchor our souls to it.. to be sure and steadfast in it. We are to have "full assurance" of it, "until the end". As the writer will tell us later, " Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful." ( 10:23)
As the song says, " My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness".
Those who fell away, gave up their hope in Him. They lost confidence. They lacked faith and patience in the the One who is faithful and true. The One who cannot lie.
Oh Father, be merciful to us, for we are weak in faith and patience. May we find encouragement to remain steadfast and sure in the hope that You have set before us. There is no other hope! Only You have provided the hope of salvation, through Jesus Christ, Your Only Begotten Son, and our Great High Priest. What a loving and faithful God You are! Praise and honor and blessing to Your Great Name we give. Amen.
The foundation of our faith is the "elementary teaching" of the gospel. This includes "repentance from dead works and of faith toward God". It is the instructions on "washings and laying on of hands and the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgement." ( v 1-2)
But the writer wants us to "press on".. to go deeper in our understanding of the Truth.
Verses 4-8 talk about those who believe and then "fall away". They have:
"been enlightened"
"tasted of the heavenly gift"
"been made partakers of the Holy Spirit"
"tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come"
But, they have rejected the Lord and turned away. And the writer tells us that it is impossible to "renew them again to repentance".
He gives an illustration in verses 7-8... the rain falls on the soil, and in one case the result is useful vegetation.. a blessing. And in the other case the result is "thorns and thistles.... worthless" and "close to being cursed".
As Jesus said, " So then, you will know them by their fruits" ( Matthew 7:20)
Not everyone who says "Lord, Lord".. Jesus tells us.. are really part of His kingdom. Even though they do great things... if they don't KNOW Him, they will perish.
The writer of Hebrews gives the same sort of message...
God sees what we do and He does not forget our works.. but there is more that He desires for us.. as the writer says, " .. and we desire that each one of you show the same diligence so as to realize the full assurance of hope until the end" ( v11).. not "sluggish but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises."
Like Abraham, we must believe God's promises. We must trust His "unchangeableness". We must know that He cannot lie and be encouraged that the "hope" He has "set before us" is sure "an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil," .
Our hope is based on the One Who has enterer within the veil, Jesus, our Great High Priest.
Hope - anticipation, expectation, confidence... We are to .. find refuge by "laying hold of the hope set before us". We are to anchor our souls to it.. to be sure and steadfast in it. We are to have "full assurance" of it, "until the end". As the writer will tell us later, " Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful." ( 10:23)
As the song says, " My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness".
Those who fell away, gave up their hope in Him. They lost confidence. They lacked faith and patience in the the One who is faithful and true. The One who cannot lie.
Oh Father, be merciful to us, for we are weak in faith and patience. May we find encouragement to remain steadfast and sure in the hope that You have set before us. There is no other hope! Only You have provided the hope of salvation, through Jesus Christ, Your Only Begotten Son, and our Great High Priest. What a loving and faithful God You are! Praise and honor and blessing to Your Great Name we give. Amen.
Monday, June 6, 2016
Hebrews 5 begins with a definition of what a "high priest" is:
He is a man "taken from among men"
He represents all men "in things pertaining to God"
He offers gifts and sacrifices to God "for sins"
He is to "deal gently with the ignorant and misguided"
He is not without sin himself, so he offers sacrifices for his own sins along with others.
He is called, anointed, and appointed to this position by God... he does not elect himself to it.
Beginning with verse 5, the writer describes Jesus, the great high priest:
He is the Begotten Son..
He did not elect Himself, but was appointed by the Father "Thou art a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek".
He "offered up both prayers and supplications" to the Father.
He was heard "because of His piety".
He learned obedience from His suffering.
".. and having been made perfect, He became to all those who obey Him the source of eternal salvation."
Jesus became a man so that He could represent all men "in the things pertaining to God". He offered the only acceptable gift, the sacrifice of His own body, for all sin. He deals with us gently, for we are all ignorant and misguided. Unlike the high priests from Aaron's line, Jesus was without sin, so He did not offer sacrifices for Himself, but for us. He is God's anointed One, glorified by the Father, as He perfectly fulfills the role of High Priest forever.
In verses 11-14 the writer explains that those dull of hearing, immature believers, cannot grasp all that he wants them to understand. We need to know the "elementary principles of the oracles of God", the milk, before we can move on to the "meat", the "word of righteousness". We need to gain maturity.. we need to "practice" what we have learned... to have our "senses trained to discern good and evil."
Father in heaven, we glorify You, our loving God, who has given us such a Great High Priest, Jesus, the only begotten Son of God. He is our Perfect representative, and sits at Your right hand. He offers intercession for us, for we are often still ignorant and misguided and sadly immature. Father, lead us to completeness, to purity and righteousness in Christ our Lord. Forgive us our sins and help us as we forgive others who have sinned against us. Lead us away from temptation and into Your perfect ways. We desire to worship and obey. Fill us with Your own Spirit that we might walk with You in peace.. We ask this in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ, amen.
He is a man "taken from among men"
He represents all men "in things pertaining to God"
He offers gifts and sacrifices to God "for sins"
He is to "deal gently with the ignorant and misguided"
He is not without sin himself, so he offers sacrifices for his own sins along with others.
He is called, anointed, and appointed to this position by God... he does not elect himself to it.
Beginning with verse 5, the writer describes Jesus, the great high priest:
He is the Begotten Son..
He did not elect Himself, but was appointed by the Father "Thou art a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek".
He "offered up both prayers and supplications" to the Father.
He was heard "because of His piety".
He learned obedience from His suffering.
".. and having been made perfect, He became to all those who obey Him the source of eternal salvation."
Jesus became a man so that He could represent all men "in the things pertaining to God". He offered the only acceptable gift, the sacrifice of His own body, for all sin. He deals with us gently, for we are all ignorant and misguided. Unlike the high priests from Aaron's line, Jesus was without sin, so He did not offer sacrifices for Himself, but for us. He is God's anointed One, glorified by the Father, as He perfectly fulfills the role of High Priest forever.
In verses 11-14 the writer explains that those dull of hearing, immature believers, cannot grasp all that he wants them to understand. We need to know the "elementary principles of the oracles of God", the milk, before we can move on to the "meat", the "word of righteousness". We need to gain maturity.. we need to "practice" what we have learned... to have our "senses trained to discern good and evil."
Father in heaven, we glorify You, our loving God, who has given us such a Great High Priest, Jesus, the only begotten Son of God. He is our Perfect representative, and sits at Your right hand. He offers intercession for us, for we are often still ignorant and misguided and sadly immature. Father, lead us to completeness, to purity and righteousness in Christ our Lord. Forgive us our sins and help us as we forgive others who have sinned against us. Lead us away from temptation and into Your perfect ways. We desire to worship and obey. Fill us with Your own Spirit that we might walk with You in peace.. We ask this in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ, amen.
Friday, June 3, 2016
Hebrews 4
Rest.... we need it, we want it, indeed we long for it like water in the desert.
Rest - the Greek word here is "katapauo" meaning to settle down, abode; "kata" - down, in place or time and "pauo" meaning to stop, restrain, desist, come to an end or cease... The rest is a place - a home; or it is a time - a day, the sabbath...
Verse 1 tells us to "fear lest, while a promise remains of entering His rest, any one of you should seem to have come short of it". Only those who hear the "good news" and respond "by faith" will profit - will enter His rest. (v2-3)
God Himself, created rest when He "rested on the seventh day from all His works". The writer of Hebrews teaches this, " .. His works were finished from the foundation of the world" . God established not only a time, a sabbath, but a place - an abode, for His people to enter into. That rest is available only to those who believe and obey.
The Israelites lost their chance to enter God's rest "because of disobedience". They refused to believe that He would do what He had promised, to give them the land. Their unbelief led them to rebel and doomed them to 40 years in the wilderness until all the adults had died. Yet, entering the promised land itself, is not the "rest" that God wants us to enter into.
God calls us to hear His voice and to not "harden" our hearts... to rest from our works and enter His rest. Verse 11 " Let us therefore be diligent to enter the rest, lest anyone fall through following the same example of disobedience." ( obstinate, rebellious, unbelieving, unpersuadable )
So the key to entering God's Rest is to hear and to believe. We must take His Word and unite with it by faith. "So faith comes from hearing and hearing by the word of Christ" ( Romans 10:17)
To believe, to have faith ... is to commit oneself to trust; to entrust yourself to Christ for your spiritual well-being; a complete reliance on Him, on His truth... it is rest from our own works.
The "word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do." (12-13)
I can entrust myself, my past, present, and future, my body, soul, and spirit.. my heart, the core of my being... to The Living Word. He sees all of me. He sees even the hidden parts of me that I don't even understand... and He will use His Word to bring me to Himself, fully and in every way. The work has been done already...
My great high priest, Jesus, the Son of God, I hold fast to my confession, that You are my Lord and my Savior. That You alone became the propitiation for my sin, so that I am made whole in You. You sympathize with my weaknesses and You bring me to the throne of grace, that I might draw near and receive mercy and find grace to help in my time of need. In You, Jesus, I enter God's rest. Daily I take up my cross and follow You, entrusting myself to Your keeping. Father, let it be so.
Rest.... we need it, we want it, indeed we long for it like water in the desert.
Rest - the Greek word here is "katapauo" meaning to settle down, abode; "kata" - down, in place or time and "pauo" meaning to stop, restrain, desist, come to an end or cease... The rest is a place - a home; or it is a time - a day, the sabbath...
Verse 1 tells us to "fear lest, while a promise remains of entering His rest, any one of you should seem to have come short of it". Only those who hear the "good news" and respond "by faith" will profit - will enter His rest. (v2-3)
God Himself, created rest when He "rested on the seventh day from all His works". The writer of Hebrews teaches this, " .. His works were finished from the foundation of the world" . God established not only a time, a sabbath, but a place - an abode, for His people to enter into. That rest is available only to those who believe and obey.
The Israelites lost their chance to enter God's rest "because of disobedience". They refused to believe that He would do what He had promised, to give them the land. Their unbelief led them to rebel and doomed them to 40 years in the wilderness until all the adults had died. Yet, entering the promised land itself, is not the "rest" that God wants us to enter into.
God calls us to hear His voice and to not "harden" our hearts... to rest from our works and enter His rest. Verse 11 " Let us therefore be diligent to enter the rest, lest anyone fall through following the same example of disobedience." ( obstinate, rebellious, unbelieving, unpersuadable )
So the key to entering God's Rest is to hear and to believe. We must take His Word and unite with it by faith. "So faith comes from hearing and hearing by the word of Christ" ( Romans 10:17)
To believe, to have faith ... is to commit oneself to trust; to entrust yourself to Christ for your spiritual well-being; a complete reliance on Him, on His truth... it is rest from our own works.
The "word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do." (12-13)
I can entrust myself, my past, present, and future, my body, soul, and spirit.. my heart, the core of my being... to The Living Word. He sees all of me. He sees even the hidden parts of me that I don't even understand... and He will use His Word to bring me to Himself, fully and in every way. The work has been done already...
My great high priest, Jesus, the Son of God, I hold fast to my confession, that You are my Lord and my Savior. That You alone became the propitiation for my sin, so that I am made whole in You. You sympathize with my weaknesses and You bring me to the throne of grace, that I might draw near and receive mercy and find grace to help in my time of need. In You, Jesus, I enter God's rest. Daily I take up my cross and follow You, entrusting myself to Your keeping. Father, let it be so.
Thursday, June 2, 2016
Hebrews 3: 1 " Therefore holy brethren, partakers of a heavenly calling, consider Jesus, the Apostle and High Priest of our confession."
Every word, every phrase of this verse, draws my attention. "Therefore"... because of Who Jesus is; because of all He did to provide salvation for us; because of His faithfulness over His Father's house; and because He has proven Himself to be a faithful, High Priest... we "consider" Him.. We need to fully observe and behold, and discover Him!
We are "partakers" - sharers of a "heavenly calling".. We have been invited in... as partners, participating with Him... in heaven's plans.
He is the Apostle, the sent One, and the High Priest, the chief of all priests.... "of our confession".
Our confession of the gospel, of truth, of faith, of belief:
That He was and is and always will be faithful.
That He is worthy of all glory.
That He is the "boast of our hope"... the way to true rest.
v 12 " Take care, brethren, lest there be in any one of you an evil, unbelieving heart in falling away from the living God".
Do not harden your heart... He tells us again and again. It can become hardened by the "deceitfulness of sin". It is hardened by disobedience and unbelief. These things "provoke" God and bar us from entering His rest.
Today, I hear Your voice, and I will not harden my heart, Lord, my God. I will not fall away from You, by Your Spirit and power... for I confess that Jesus Christ is my Great High Priest. I have become a partaker of Christ and hold fast my assurance in Him. He is my only hope, the only way, the only truth, and the only life. All glory and honor is due Him. With a heart of thanksgiving I come in Him. Amen.
Every word, every phrase of this verse, draws my attention. "Therefore"... because of Who Jesus is; because of all He did to provide salvation for us; because of His faithfulness over His Father's house; and because He has proven Himself to be a faithful, High Priest... we "consider" Him.. We need to fully observe and behold, and discover Him!
We are "partakers" - sharers of a "heavenly calling".. We have been invited in... as partners, participating with Him... in heaven's plans.
He is the Apostle, the sent One, and the High Priest, the chief of all priests.... "of our confession".
Our confession of the gospel, of truth, of faith, of belief:
That He was and is and always will be faithful.
That He is worthy of all glory.
That He is the "boast of our hope"... the way to true rest.
v 12 " Take care, brethren, lest there be in any one of you an evil, unbelieving heart in falling away from the living God".
Do not harden your heart... He tells us again and again. It can become hardened by the "deceitfulness of sin". It is hardened by disobedience and unbelief. These things "provoke" God and bar us from entering His rest.
Today, I hear Your voice, and I will not harden my heart, Lord, my God. I will not fall away from You, by Your Spirit and power... for I confess that Jesus Christ is my Great High Priest. I have become a partaker of Christ and hold fast my assurance in Him. He is my only hope, the only way, the only truth, and the only life. All glory and honor is due Him. With a heart of thanksgiving I come in Him. Amen.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)