22 October 2015

Scriptures:

• Romans 14
• Ezekiel 45
• 1 Kings 14:21-15:24
• Psalm 82

Observations:

So, the first part of this Romans passage is concerning differences in minor doctrine that is, the manners in which Christians worship and the variances thereof. We should be respectful of those differences, not flagrantly displaying our freedoms in comparison to another. This idea may also be applied to others of different religions. After all, wouldn't it be rude to eat pork at the same table as a Jew or Muslim? Again, Paul makes the distinction between can and should. The main point, though, is to keep this consideration with other Christians, especially newer Christians who may feel they need to prescribe to extra behaviours, because that is walking in love.

In Ezekiel, we see God re-specifying the land allotments for the Levites, the measurements of materials, the requirements for sacrifices, and the celebrations. Presumably, the point for this is an indication that God is looking favourably towards Israel or is about to restore them.

First, in 1 Kings, we see the description of Rehoboam's reign, which wasn't very good. He led Israel away from God, was attacked and raided by Egypt and was at war with Israel throughout his rule. Rehoboam's son Abijam reigned for all of three years before passing, leaving the throne to his son, Asa, who lived more in line with God. He wasn't perfect, but he attempted to undo much of his father's, grandfather's and great-grandfathers' follies.

In the psalm, we see Asaph comparing God to the other gods of the nations surrounding them, comparing their justice, knowledge, and understanding, finding it lacking compared to God's.

Application:

Well, firstly, the obvious application is the manner in which we use our freedoms, both around others and individually. It's a big area for me, because of temptation and sin, to say, "I can totally do this; God's got me." or "It's not too bad." No, no. That's sin.

More specifically, in this context, Sure, I can choose to eat certain things, drink certain things, and say certain things, but should I? How woulf that impact the faith and understanding of others around me?

The other thing for me to really take a look at is the comparison of the kings, looking at their reigns. My heart really needs to be more in the right place, seeking and desiring God. I'm all too easily consumed in myself and that's part of my struggles recently.

Prayer:

God, I'm a mess. I've been a mess for a decent bit. Yesterday's conflict just added to the mix. My eyes have been roving all over the place recently and I need your help pulling them under control. I've tried on my own, but it's not helped too much. I need you to help give me discipline and really work in me more than you're already doing. 

Look into my heart, Lord. I'm trying to do the best I can for you, but it's not enough. I'm feeling somewhat empty and dead, without much remorse of guilt.

Help me to connect with my wife better. I'm doing the best I can, considering all that's on my plate. I don't know how much more can be done right now from my side and how much is work from her side, but help me to do the best and most I can.

I need you here, with me, Lord.

Amen

20 October 2015

Scriptures:

• Romans 12
• Ezekiel 43
• 1 Kings 13
• Psalm 80

Observations:

In the Romans passage, Paul is giving instruction on how to work with each other in the church, that is, not thinking of oneself too highly, being aware of and co-operating in different skills/giftings, and having genuine community that flows out from love. Paul closes off this segment, saying "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." This verse should really prescript how we interact with many individuals today, yet we seem to forget that, especially here in the US.

In Ezekiel, we have the climax of chapters 40-42. Here we see God returning to the temple in the vision. The Lord speaks of how Israel will no longer sin and he will dwell in their midst forever (which makes me think it's an end-times prophecy). We also see God providing instructions on building and consecrating an altar, arguably the most important part of the entire temple, as, without it, Israel cannot make atonement for their sins.

In 1 Kings, we have a prophet calling out Jeroboam in his altar-building and idol worshipping. We also see the confirmation that this prophet was of God in that, when he [the prophet] disobeyed, he received his punishment, which was recognised and helped spread the word against Jeroboam further, though Jeroboam did not turn from his sin, but continued it even further.

The psalm today, another one of Asaph, is one asking again how long Israel's punishment would be and seeking God's restoration/relenting.

Application:

Firstly, the Romans passage is always applicable in daily life - govern your interactions with humility, mindfulness of others' strengths, and love, seeking to overcome evil with good.

In  the Ezekiel and 1 Kings passages, we also see what God will not abide, that is, Idolatry. God seeks and demands primacy in our lives, which is evident in everything from the nature of the sacrifices required through, probably, the book of Romans, in which Paul makes fairly evident that man cannot serve both God and another master.

Prayer:

Lord, I have two things to ask today, but first, thank you for the test yesterday and I hope my grades will reflect how optimistic I am.

More seriously, though, help me to continually put you first. I am a selfish individual and I like to get my way. Also, help me to engage with others in humility, mindfulness, and love. We both know this is a weak point for me, causing many tensions in my relationships.

Be with my wife as our dog is getting spayed - she is very stressed and tense about it. Ease her worries and allow her to relax somewhat.

Be with my professors today as they face all of my class today during the exam review. Help them to keep a level head and help my class to remain civil.

Amen

19 October 2015

Scriptures:

• Romans 11
• Ezekiel 41-42
• 1 Kings 12:16-33
• Psalm 79

Observations:

Okay, so this Romans passage is a little muddy to me, but what I think I understand is that some Jews, in their unbelief, were cut off and given over to their sin so that Gentiles may come into mercy. Does that mean they are forever cast off? No, rather they now may be shown the same mercy shown to the Gentiles.

In Ezekiel, we continue the measurements and descriptions of the temple vision being given to Ezekiel.

In 1 Kings, we see the splitting of Israel and also Jeroboam's folly - the establishment of separate, national idols and holidays thereunto.

The psalm today is one in which Asaph is crying out to the Lord, asking how long the Lord's anger and punishment will last, asking the Lord to repay those who taunt and deride Israel.

Application:

Right now, I'm still tossing over the questions from Romans 9-10 and trying to see how 11 fits in, without much success right now. Perhaps I'll take a second look later. We do, however see the handing over of certain individuals to sin for an express purpose unknown to man in the 1 Kings passage, where, as punishment to Solomon and the line of David because of Solomon's folly, the nation has been split and the northern nation given over to sin and idolatry.

Prayer:

Lord, I apologise for the rush, but thank you for your provision during the exams. Help me to further refine my study habits so I can make the most of my time and still fulfill my role as a husband.

Teach me more of your character, God. Especially in connection with Romans 9-11; it's a complex passage I don't fully understand.

Be with the Chrstians in Afghanistan. Give them boldness to share your word and keep them safe. Plant your word among those who do not follow you and encourage the faithful to reach out.

Continue to give my parents wisdom and help my brothers on their finals. Also, remind my sister of who you are.

Amen

18 October 2015

Scriptures:

• Romans 9:30-10:21
• Ezekiel 40
• 1 Kings 12:1-15
• Psalm 78

Observations:

In the first part of the Romans passage, Paul highlights why Gentiles, who did not have the law have attained righteousness, where Jews, who have had the law have not, which is the question of faith; the Jews pursued righteousness not by faith, but by works. Paul goes on to expound upon this, expressing his hopes that the Jews may realise that righteousness comes from God and cannot be established by their own works. Paul goes a little further and explains the requirements of the law versus faith and explaining how, in God, there is no difference between Gentiles & Jews, for all who call on him in faith are saved. Now, this kinda stands in contrast to yesterday's passage regarding the issue of predestination. The original intention of that passage, as mentioned, was to indicate that it is God who works to bring us to salvation, in his mercy, not from our own works. The question of predestination is on the issue of God selecting some to come to salvation and others to display his power. Someone more in favour of predestination than I would reconcile these two passages with the idea that it is only by God working in us that we could even come to the point of calling on the name of the Lord for salvation in the first place. As for myself, that argument makes sense, but I dislike the concept of predestination for pretty much the reason given in Paul's dialogue in chapter 9, but I cannot at this point string together an alternate argument.

Regardless, though, Paul's next words in Romans 10 establish the importance of evangelism whether or not one agrees with predestination: "How can they call on the one  ... of whom they have never heard?" and "So, faith comes from hearing and hearing through the word of Christ." So, we still need to be faithful in witnessing to those around us.

In Ezekiel, we see the Lord taking Ezekiel through the temple, with an angel giving him all of its measurements. The only thing I can think of for this passage's importance is the promise of restoration, a new temple. That was a pretty big issue for the Jews in exile.

In 1 Kings, we see the Lord's prophecy to Solomon come true - in his son's foolishness, he has caused the events leading to the split of the country.

In the psalm today, we see the faithfulness of God and the fickleness of Israel painted out in an almost parable-like form, with the palmist recounting Israel's travels through the desert and early history during the time of the judges leading up to David. To me, the psalm sounds only half-complete, as though there's still more to come, some climax and conclusion still awaiting. Still, we can see the faithfulness of God despite and through Israel's unfaithfulness and give glory to him for that reason.

Application:

Firstly, I need to not underestimate the importance of evangelism. Evangelism is the primary mode of bringing others to Christ. I also need to seek wisdom in puzzling out the question of predestination and election.

Secondly, it's important to remember the faithfulness of God above and throughout our history and is justice as well. God is faithful to us, yes, but he is faithful first to himself. What he says he will do, blessing or punishment, he will do.

Prayer:

Lord, lead me to wisdom. I need a better understanding of these issues, particularly for my wife, and I know that understanding will help build my fervour for you.

Also, provide insight for us into where you are calling us in future service. As we go down the list of nations, this week on Afghanistan, help us become more aware of the need there and soften our hearts to the peoples' plights.

Again, as always, grant my family the wisdom and strength they need and allow them to see you in deeper ways each day.

Amen

17 October 2015

Scriptures:

• Romans 9:1-29
• Ezekiel 39
• 1 Kings 11
• Psalm 77

Observations:

In the Romans passage, we see a couple elements. First, we have the idea that the Children of Abraham are not necessarily his genetic descendants, that not all of genetic Israel belongs to God's people Israel. This is the beginning of the suggestion that the church is the descendant of Abraham, but in promise as opposed to blood. Second, we have some scripture that, as much as I dislike the idea of election and predestination, seems to suggest that there are individuals who fall into the promise and those who fall outside it and it's wholly determined by the mercy of God, giving the example of Pharaoh to represent those whom God has hardened to serve his purpose outside of the promise (in this case, Pharaoh was the foil against whom God displayed his preeminence to the Israelites). Paul is making this argument because there are many Jews who have not come to belief in Christ whereas many Gentiles have. He is seeking to answer why God would even call Gentiles, a people not his people, and call very few Jews, who have historically been his people and carriers of his law. Paul also raises an objection to this idea, asking why God would find fault in those whom he purposes to harden and serve as his foil, answering it with indignation, asking whether a pot asks the potter why it was made for one purpose and another, another.

The main purpose of this passage is to show that Gentiles are now to be considered descendants of Abraham through the promise, part of a spiritual Israel, so to speak. A side application that may be taken from this passage is the question of predestination and whether God foreknows and condemns ahead certain individuals as displays of his righteousness, justice, and wrath, while calling other individuals as vessels of his grace, called to serve in a more positive light.

In the Ezekiel passage, we see the continuation of the rout of Gog. We also see the gathering of Israel thereafter and, it seems, a spiritual fixing of Israel upon God, with God pouring himself out in very present ways upon them. Part of me wonders whether this is a post-exilic, pre-messianic prophecy, or an end of times prophecy. That is, the wars of the Macedonians, Seleucids, and Romans before the coming of Christ, with Christ being the turning factor in the hearts of Israel, gathering the children of the promise (see above) from all corners of the globe, or some end-of-time battle of the forces of the world against God's people, resulting in a rout, restoration of the church and an indwelling of God in the new Jerusalem as described in Revelation.

In 1 Kings, we see the slow downfall of Solomon as he is pulled away from God by his wives and the prophecy of the division of Israel, with Judah left to the line of David, because God made a promise to David. Also, I kinda got sidetracked, looking up Tahpenes. (I found this article, though I am skeptical of AiG. I don't really know enough about Egyptian and Near Eastern history and methods of chronology to say much more, but there are notorious discrepancies between Biblical historical accounts and modern interpretations of Egyptian accounts, where the discrepancy is less than with other Near Eastern accounts.)

In the psalm, we see Asaph crying out to God, seeking comfort. During this outcry, he recalls the deeds of the Lord and his power and gives praise to God.

Application:

Really, the big point I see that needs stressing is in the Romans passage. Predestination has no effect on the need for evangelism. We, as the church, must remember that the church is the primary vehicle for the spread of the Gospel (Romans 10:14-15). Similarly, we cannot become lazy and settle for simple widespread scattering of the word. Yes, God will call those he has chosen, but that won't mature them. We are called to not only evangelise, but to make disciples, to grow those we bring to Christ.

As far as Ezekiel and 1 Kings go those are interesting questions to ponder, but they have little effect on our evangelism, though the nature of the church as Israel under the promise does warrant some application and examination into end times theology, but I am very much running out of time to research today. (I still have four lectures to study for Mondays exam and still need to revise over the whole material, just to be sure)

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for the insight. I ask that you would help provide further information regarding predestination, the nature of Israel and the church, and the comparisons between Biblical and Egyptian chronology.

Help me to come to a greater understanding of you and help em to really prepare for this test coming up - I have very little time left.

Amen

16 October 2015

Scriptures:

• Romans 8:18-39
• Ezekiel 38
• 1 Kings 9:10-10:29
• Psalm 76

Observations:

So, in the Romans passage, we have a couple verses that lend some credence to the idea of predestination. Something I find interesting in this scattered passage, though, is both the talk of how all creation is waiting with anticipation for the final revealing of Christ and the removal of sin. Also worth noting is how nothing can separate us from the love of God.

The Ezekiel passage talks about how God will call forth the nation of Gog against Israel and will bring it to punishment on Israel's mountains.. Note that Gog and Magog have been used to refer to the Eurasian steppe peoples (Scythians, Khazars, Huns, etc).

The first part of the 1 Kings passage deals with the logistical details of the manpower required in the building of the temple and palace. The second portion details the account of Solomon and the queen of Sheba as well as the vast amount received by Solomon in tribute. It is now when we begin to see all of the gold affects in the palace and the size of the royal army being built.

The psalm today proclaims how great the name of the Lord is in Israel and extols the power of God in his judgment, making the argument that God is the one to be feared.

Application:

15 October 2015

Scriptures:

• Romans 8:1-17
• Ezekiel 37
• 1 Kings 9:1-9
• Psalm 75

Observations:

In Romans, we're following from yesterday's passage, further expounding on how those who have transferred their allegiance from sin to Christ are set free from the law of sin and death and no longer are to receive condemnation. He then goes on to distinguish between those guided by the spirit being under Christ and those guided by the flesh being under sin.

In Ezekiel, we see God demonstrating his power to bring life. We also see him promising to bring the two nations of Israel and Judah together once more, under David. It's pretty safe to assume that these are two messianic prophecies and very likely regarding the return of Christ. Having skimmed a couple commentaries, the scholars suggest these two are exilic prophecies, with the dead bones representing the Israelites in exile. Who knows. This may be a case of double fulfillment.

In 1 Kings, we see God speaking with Solomon in reference to his prayer, saying that, if he [Solomon] and his descendants continued to follow God, then God would be present, establishing the kingdom with blessing. If they turned away, then they would be made an example of.

The psalm today is one praising God for his justice, showing how God maintains the world and lays low the haughty, before pouring out punishment on the wicked.

Application:

In Ezekiel 37:13, God says that Israel will know that he is God when he opens up the grave and  raises them from the grave. Jesus himself raised a couple individuals from the dead - none more dramatically than Lazarus. Jesus wasn't just demonstrating that God had given him power over death, but that he was God and, not only that, but he is the one to fulfill the prophecy in v12, raising Israel to life and bringing them back into the land that they would not be cut off (v11).

All of that, of course, to bring us to yesterday's Romans passage and today's as well, talking about how Christ has set us free and those who now claim allegiance to him are no longer bound to is and death, but have the opportunity to be able to reject sin and are no longer bound to the punishment of sin, which is death.

God's response to Solomon in 1 Kings, then, makes sense in light of it being pre-Christ. Where now, Christ is the measure of righteousness, then, the law was the measure. How then do we explain how Moses and David and other such individuals who broke the law were still counted righteous? They did not merely keep the law as external affectations, as actions, but, as the psalmist writes in 119:11, they bound the word of God in their hearts. They aligned themselves with God over and above anything else.

Side tangent: I find it funny how the application section has become less and less how I can apply it in my life, but how can I apply the observations I have made into my understanding of God, faith, and biblical doctrine. How typical for an ENTP. My wife would shake her head at me right now - seeing the abstract, theoretical constructs and concepts, but failing to see how to apply it in life.

So, how does this apply into my life today? Well, the only thing I can really think of is to continue to try and engage God with my heart, to align myself with him in that manner. My head is, for the most part, following and my head is what I use to think, but my feelings, my emotions, underdeveloped though they are, could be better in alignment with God, especially on the matter of feeling as God feels in response to my sin and the plight of others.

Prayer:

Well, God, this was a pretty cool revelation - thank you very much for that insight.

Help me to have a better sense of you, that I would respond as you would to the world around me ad to the world within me. I know I am very calloused and relatively inured to my sins and others' needs, but I ask that you would pull back my callouses and expose my heart to your pain and the pain of this world, though I fear and do not relish the sensation. Cub my flesh, that I might be able to draw closer to you.

Give my wife courage as well. She's in the process of a making a very difficult, but important step. Help her to face her fears and ask for what she needs and help her to receive what help will come.

Give my parents wisdom as the deadline for their decision grows closer.

Be with my one brother as he faces exams - give him the endurance he needs to follow through with both his exams and his applications.

Be with my sister as she is clouded in her judgment. Break through the fog surrounding her and show her the way back to you. Be with my other brother, as he makes his steps forward in school. Show him more of you and draw him more closely to you.

Be with the people of Afghanistan - Those who know you, keep them safe and give them the boldness to share your word. Provide them with sound doctrine and encouragers in their faith. Those who do not know you, I ask that they would come into contact with believers. Prepare their hearts ahead of time, that they would be ready for you. Reach out to the hardened and speak to them. Send them missionaries and visions, that they would begin pondering in their heads and hearts about you. For those under oppression, Lord, I ask deliverance, though I do not know what more may be done.

Protect your servants around the world and equip them to serve you more boldly.

Amen