Today's reading is Leviticus 21-25.
Leviticus 21
In this chapter we see God commanding the purity of the priest in their body. No one who has a deformity or has any sickness is to be a priest.
Personally, Yes this is just my thinking here, that the command on not marrying anyone who isn't a virgin has to do with purity in body. Why you may ask? The answer is you can't get a sexually-transmitted disease from someone who never had sex (remember they didn't have blood transfusions back them).
However, whatever reason may be given for God's command on purity in the priest (which I won't discuss here), God says that a person who has a deformity though unable to serve in the tabernacle is still allowed to eat of the holy and even the most holy things (the priest portions of the sacrifices). Yes God has said they can't serve, but he doesn't remove the blessing of being part of the priestly family. These who others may look down on because they are different still have the blessing of being part of the family. They were able to partake of that which an unblemished person would never take part of.
So how do I apply this to today? There are people who may never be able to do ministry in any real sense in the church because of a deformity of other issues, but this doesn't mean that they are outside God's blessing or they will not be blessed by God.
Take in mind this is my ideas, or as I like to say, "According to Saint Charles."
Wednesday, January 31, 2018
Tuesday, January 30, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan. 30th
Today's reading is from Leviticus 16-20
Leviticus 19
You are to be holy (set apart).
It has always been God’s plan to have a people set apart for himself. We see it here and in the New Testament. This isn’t a new concept to God.
God’s method here was tied to not just moral guidelines but to a way of living which caused the people of Israel to stand apart from the world around them. This difference has caused much persecution and division. The children of Israel didn’t always follow the moral guidelines or the rest but the combination keeps them separated from the world so God could prepare a people for what was to come, life with Jesus.
Jesus warned his followers that the life he offered would bring troubles and persecution. However, those that are different have always faced this.
In today’s world, much has been done to remove prejudice, but the idea that someone has something someone else doesn’t is seen an attitude of prejudice and therefore acceptable to be prejudice against. I could go on but I don’t think I need to.
What I want to point out is that whether it is popular or not God’s people were always to be holy, thus different from the rest of the world. It doesn’t make us better (although we should begin to act better), it just makes us right with God.
It’s something to think about as you read the rest of Leviticus.
Leviticus 19
You are to be holy (set apart).
It has always been God’s plan to have a people set apart for himself. We see it here and in the New Testament. This isn’t a new concept to God.
God’s method here was tied to not just moral guidelines but to a way of living which caused the people of Israel to stand apart from the world around them. This difference has caused much persecution and division. The children of Israel didn’t always follow the moral guidelines or the rest but the combination keeps them separated from the world so God could prepare a people for what was to come, life with Jesus.
Jesus warned his followers that the life he offered would bring troubles and persecution. However, those that are different have always faced this.
In today’s world, much has been done to remove prejudice, but the idea that someone has something someone else doesn’t is seen an attitude of prejudice and therefore acceptable to be prejudice against. I could go on but I don’t think I need to.
What I want to point out is that whether it is popular or not God’s people were always to be holy, thus different from the rest of the world. It doesn’t make us better (although we should begin to act better), it just makes us right with God.
It’s something to think about as you read the rest of Leviticus.
Monday, January 29, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan 29th
Today's Reading is from Leviticus 11-15
Leviticus chapter 11
Do you remember your parent's telling you, "Don't put that in your mouth!"
Yes sometimes they said it just because the idea was disgusting to them but at other times it was because there was a real danger if you did it you would get sick or even die.
They may have explained it to you or if you were too young to understand they may have said the famous words, "Because I told you so."
Here we see God listing the creatures He wanted the Israelites to avoid eating. Though he said He was showing them the difference between the clean and unclean, in another way He was saying, "because I said so."
Why?
In the times the Israelites lived, they wouldn't have understood the dangers eating many of these creatures presented. Some of them if prepared and cooked the correct way today we know are okay, but back then there was no way to test temperature or to explain to them the dangers of invisible bacteria.
Besides seeing the history of the Israelites, and people in general, if God had tried to explain invisible creatures they probably would have made gods to them.
So what does God do? Just what our parent did, they laid down the law. Don't do this.
We may think we are smarter today, but let's be honest. Look around, are we?
Most everyone knows that smoking is bad for you, but people do it anyway. And this is just one example, I could list more, but I think you get the point.
There are somethings even if God explained, we wouldn't obey or we would make some excuse for why we are the exception to the rule. It is what people have done for millennia. And there is that issue of creating more gods (or doctrine) because of the explanations, so God decided in his wisdom, which is greater than ours, that silence is the best option.
What do we do? Trust God to know better than we do.
We don't have to worry about the dietary laws of Christianity, but we do have plenty of other areas where we need to trust that God knows best. Don't look for excuses. I believe that all of the commandments God gives the Christian have solid reasons behind them, but they can all be dismissed and are if you want to.
At the end of the day, will you choose to trust God, or not? Looking back in light of modern science, we can see why God commanded the Israelites to do what they did (I won't take the time to list them all ). We see God's track record as being good. So let's trust him in the areas he directs us today.
Leviticus chapter 11
Do you remember your parent's telling you, "Don't put that in your mouth!"
Yes sometimes they said it just because the idea was disgusting to them but at other times it was because there was a real danger if you did it you would get sick or even die.
They may have explained it to you or if you were too young to understand they may have said the famous words, "Because I told you so."
Here we see God listing the creatures He wanted the Israelites to avoid eating. Though he said He was showing them the difference between the clean and unclean, in another way He was saying, "because I said so."
Why?
In the times the Israelites lived, they wouldn't have understood the dangers eating many of these creatures presented. Some of them if prepared and cooked the correct way today we know are okay, but back then there was no way to test temperature or to explain to them the dangers of invisible bacteria.
Besides seeing the history of the Israelites, and people in general, if God had tried to explain invisible creatures they probably would have made gods to them.
So what does God do? Just what our parent did, they laid down the law. Don't do this.
We may think we are smarter today, but let's be honest. Look around, are we?
Most everyone knows that smoking is bad for you, but people do it anyway. And this is just one example, I could list more, but I think you get the point.
There are somethings even if God explained, we wouldn't obey or we would make some excuse for why we are the exception to the rule. It is what people have done for millennia. And there is that issue of creating more gods (or doctrine) because of the explanations, so God decided in his wisdom, which is greater than ours, that silence is the best option.
What do we do? Trust God to know better than we do.
We don't have to worry about the dietary laws of Christianity, but we do have plenty of other areas where we need to trust that God knows best. Don't look for excuses. I believe that all of the commandments God gives the Christian have solid reasons behind them, but they can all be dismissed and are if you want to.
At the end of the day, will you choose to trust God, or not? Looking back in light of modern science, we can see why God commanded the Israelites to do what they did (I won't take the time to list them all ). We see God's track record as being good. So let's trust him in the areas he directs us today.
Friday, January 26, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan 26th
Today's reading is from Leviticus 6-10.
However, today's blog is from chapter 5.
Leviticus 5:17 "If anyone sins and does what is forbidden in any of the LORD's commands, even though they do not know it, they are guilty and will be held responsible."
I have noticed that people like to make the claim, “That’s not fair,” though I am amazed how quick they are to dismiss the claim by others, that however, is a discussion for another time. When we look at this verse God doesn’t let anyone off the hook, ignorance is in God’s economy is not an excuse and it doesn’t let you off the hook.
The one thing God promised his people was if they did all that God commanded, they would live happier and healthier lives. Yet, we don’t see this happening for the Children of Israel. They look just as miserable and unhealthy as everyone else. So what is the deal?
I think the deal is that especially when it comes to matters of health, that ignorance doesn’t protect you. Not knowing the wire was live doesn’t protect you from getting electrocuted. Not knowing that the mushroom is poisonous doesn’t keep you from dying. Not know about STDs doesn’t protect you if you sleep around. Not knowing about bacteria doesn’t keep it from spreading. Not realizing that your working too hard, avoiding exercise, and not resting enough doesn’t stop the stroke. Not knowing there is land-mind doesn’t keep it from going off. That is the reality of our world.
However, aren’t you glad you don’t have to perfectly understand how a car works before it starts, or that you don’t first have to have an electrical degree for electricity to work or be a pharmacist for medicine to work? Or be a dietitian for food to nourish you or a chef for food to taste good? So maybe a knowledge requirement isn’t all its cracked up to be?
So where does this leave us? We need to realize that there are things both good and bad which are not a result of divine intervention but a consequence of the actions of ourselves or someone else. Second, we need to know that if it is our fault then we can go to God and ask for forgiveness. Finally, maybe we ought to be glad that life isn't fair and not complain about it.
However, today's blog is from chapter 5.
Leviticus 5:17 "If anyone sins and does what is forbidden in any of the LORD's commands, even though they do not know it, they are guilty and will be held responsible."
I have noticed that people like to make the claim, “That’s not fair,” though I am amazed how quick they are to dismiss the claim by others, that however, is a discussion for another time. When we look at this verse God doesn’t let anyone off the hook, ignorance is in God’s economy is not an excuse and it doesn’t let you off the hook.
The one thing God promised his people was if they did all that God commanded, they would live happier and healthier lives. Yet, we don’t see this happening for the Children of Israel. They look just as miserable and unhealthy as everyone else. So what is the deal?
I think the deal is that especially when it comes to matters of health, that ignorance doesn’t protect you. Not knowing the wire was live doesn’t protect you from getting electrocuted. Not knowing that the mushroom is poisonous doesn’t keep you from dying. Not know about STDs doesn’t protect you if you sleep around. Not knowing about bacteria doesn’t keep it from spreading. Not realizing that your working too hard, avoiding exercise, and not resting enough doesn’t stop the stroke. Not knowing there is land-mind doesn’t keep it from going off. That is the reality of our world.
However, aren’t you glad you don’t have to perfectly understand how a car works before it starts, or that you don’t first have to have an electrical degree for electricity to work or be a pharmacist for medicine to work? Or be a dietitian for food to nourish you or a chef for food to taste good? So maybe a knowledge requirement isn’t all its cracked up to be?
So where does this leave us? We need to realize that there are things both good and bad which are not a result of divine intervention but a consequence of the actions of ourselves or someone else. Second, we need to know that if it is our fault then we can go to God and ask for forgiveness. Finally, maybe we ought to be glad that life isn't fair and not complain about it.
Thursday, January 25, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan 25th
This is taken from our readings in Leviticus 1-5
While preparing for my study of Leviticus I came across this note from Barnes’ Notes on the Bible:
“The tabernacle of the congregation - Rather, the tent of meeting. See Exodus 22:21 note. When Jehovah (Yahweh) was about to give His people the Law of the Ten Commandments Exodus 19:3 He called to Moses from the top of Mount Sinai in thunders and lightnings and a thick cloud. When He was now about to give them the laws by which their formal acts of worship were to be regulated, He called to Moses out of the tabernacle which had just been constructed at the foot of the mountain. Exodus 25:22.”[1]
I had never realized the importance of where God called Moses from when he gave the commandments, but it is important. The importance comes in light of the New Testament where we no longer obey the sacrificial system but still hold to the Ten Commandments. Some want to argue that we are inconsistent because we hold to part of the Law but not all of it. Yet we see here that the center of the Ten Commandments proceeds from the mountain which belongs one could say to everyone and to the tabernacle which held only to the children of Israel. We see Jesus and the New Testament writers repeating the commands given from the mountain (yes even a version of the Sabbath command in that God sanctifies all days, but that discussion is for another day), but throughout the New Testament, the sacrificial system is dismissed.
Why? I think the reason is seen here. We now have a new tabernacle which Stephen hints at in his address before the Sanhedrin in Acts 7 and is clear talked about in Hebrew. The Levitical law laid out in Leviticus is a picture of the sinfulness of man and the sacrificial grace of Jesus, but it is not the law we now live under for we have a new tabernacle where we worship. A tabernacle not made by hand but made by God in the hearts of men as Jerimiah 31:33 says: "This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time," declares the LORD. "I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.”
The law we are preparing to read is good to understand and know, but it is not the law which guides our lives, because now we enter into a new tabernacle, not the one Moses was called into here in Leviticus chapter 1.
[1] Barnes' Notes on the Bible. http://biblehub.com/commentaries/leviticus/1-1.htm. Accessed Jan. 25, 2018.
Wednesday, January 24, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan 24th
From today's readings Exodus 36-40
Exodus 40
Exodus 40
As we end the book of Exodus, chapter 40, we see the presence
of God filling the tabernacle and sitting over the tabernacle for the rest of
their journey. I am reminded of the faithfulness of God here. For forty years,
the pillar of fire/cloud would be with them. It was with them in obedience, in
faith, in sin, and in doubt. While they traveled through the wilderness, God
gave direction.
The other thing I notice is that God in the wilderness
journey, was their only guild. He decided when it was time to move and when it
was time to stay. There was no board meeting, no conference of moving in the wilderness,
and no vote. It was always God’s decision.
We need to remember it is still God’s decision when we
should stay or go. We stay when God say stay. If He isn’t prompting them don’t
move, don’t do anything. On the other side if God says to get going, then get
moving.
There are two dangers in many churches, though to be
honest usually the first is more often found. The first is the danger to stay
where we are doing what we are doing and not move. The second is just as bad,
change for the sake of change. Both can be argued from good intentions and good
reasons. We have never done it that way before or we have to change with the
time. The people who lean one way or the other see the other side as worst, but
both end up being without the presence of God.
Consider where is the presence of God? Also remember,
God doesn’t need your advice on when it is time to stay or move. He knows best.
Tuesday, January 23, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan 23
Today's readings are from Exodus 31-35
Exodus 33
A friend of mine has said, “When the student is ready the teacher will appear.” The phrase seems true yet part of me wonders if that's all there is. When it comes to spiritual matters Jesus made it clear that if we seek God with our whole hearts we will, not maybe, find him. In the scripture today in Exodus 33, Moses asks God to teach him His ways so that he, Moses, can know God and continue to please God. The student here is ready and God answers.
Then I considered where we are. Do we really want to know God’s ways? Do we really want to know him? The answer I know should be YES, but at times I think part of me prays the prayer of St. Augustine “Lord, make me chaste, but not yet.”
You see the teacher is ready, but many times we aren’t. The greatest way we can learn the ways of God is reading scripture (prayer and Bible studies are right up there too). The tools are there, the teacher is there. We can know God better, but will we move? Will we push through the hard parts and sometimes the not exciting parts? Before God revealed himself to Moses here in a new way, but first Moses had to chisel out two tablets of stone. I have to guess this wasn’t exciting or fun work, let alone quick, but afterward, God revealed Himself to Moses in a way which so changed him that his face shone like the sun.
In the next two weeks, we face some of the most difficult passages in the Bible to read, Leviticus and Numbers. It will be like chiseling stone for many, but the rewards if faithful, I believe will be worth it.
One last note, Moses realized the way to keep pleasing God was to know him better. It’s true for us as well, the only way we can continue to please God is to know him better. The words Charles Dickens gave to the ghost of Christmas Present ring in my mind, “Come near and know me better, man.” I can’t help but think this is the call of God as well.
So, let’s draw near and know Him better...
Monday, January 22, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan 22
Today's Reading is Exodus 26-30.
Most of this section covers the fashioning of everything that goes into the tabernacle which God called them to make. It is easy to get lost in the details or to gloss them over, however, this entire place from the garments worn by the priest to the types of sacrifices are a picture of Jesus. Today I want to look at one small detail. Exodus 28:29.
"Whenever Aaron enters the Holy Place, he will bear the names of the sons of Israel over his heart on the breastpiece of decision as a continuing memorial before the LORD."
God ordained that the high priest was to carry the names of the children of Israel over his heart. This I see not just as a ceremonial duty, but a spiritual duty. The priest supposed to bridge the gap between the people and God. This duty can only be carried out without abuse if the people are loved by the priest, (the people are on their heart). History is full of the abuses of spiritual leaders, love, I believe, is what keeps a leader from being abusive
When we come to the New Testament, Jesus shows his love for the people time after time. He the scripture said had compassion on them, he loved, he wept over them and ultimately, he showed his love by laying down his life for them.
What does this have to do with us? We are called to be like Christ and thus carry the people not just of Israel but the world on our hearts before God. To put it another way, we are called to love.
Most of this section covers the fashioning of everything that goes into the tabernacle which God called them to make. It is easy to get lost in the details or to gloss them over, however, this entire place from the garments worn by the priest to the types of sacrifices are a picture of Jesus. Today I want to look at one small detail. Exodus 28:29.
"Whenever Aaron enters the Holy Place, he will bear the names of the sons of Israel over his heart on the breastpiece of decision as a continuing memorial before the LORD."
God ordained that the high priest was to carry the names of the children of Israel over his heart. This I see not just as a ceremonial duty, but a spiritual duty. The priest supposed to bridge the gap between the people and God. This duty can only be carried out without abuse if the people are loved by the priest, (the people are on their heart). History is full of the abuses of spiritual leaders, love, I believe, is what keeps a leader from being abusive
When we come to the New Testament, Jesus shows his love for the people time after time. He the scripture said had compassion on them, he loved, he wept over them and ultimately, he showed his love by laying down his life for them.
What does this have to do with us? We are called to be like Christ and thus carry the people not just of Israel but the world on our hearts before God. To put it another way, we are called to love.
Friday, January 19, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan 19th
This is from today's readings Exodus 21-25
Exodus 21
Today we look at what many have seen as the awful demands of the Old Testament, an eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth, in God's plan of justice for Israel (Exodus 21:23-24).
It may seem extreme but in times past people did not get equal justice. A tooth was lost and someone with greater power took a hand. A life was taken and the criminals entire family was wiped out. What God called for here seems radical in a culture that has been taught the value of mercy, but in this time the law is revenge, not equal justice. What God called for was equal treatment for everyone, no matter their station in life. It was a radical concept at its time and maybe still today.
The truth is, most people then and now don't want an eye for an eye. You took fifty dollars, I want a hundred. You embarrassed me in front of a few I want to destroy you in front of thousands. You attacked me, now I want to destroy your entire family or nation.
What God demanded then was a concept of fair retribution for wrongs in the context of their day. It was preparation for a more radical idea, mercy.
Look at your own life. Do you want what is fair when you are mistreated? or do you want more? Are you willing to go further and extend something else? to give what Jesus gave? Mercy?
Exodus 21
Today we look at what many have seen as the awful demands of the Old Testament, an eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth, in God's plan of justice for Israel (Exodus 21:23-24).
It may seem extreme but in times past people did not get equal justice. A tooth was lost and someone with greater power took a hand. A life was taken and the criminals entire family was wiped out. What God called for here seems radical in a culture that has been taught the value of mercy, but in this time the law is revenge, not equal justice. What God called for was equal treatment for everyone, no matter their station in life. It was a radical concept at its time and maybe still today.
The truth is, most people then and now don't want an eye for an eye. You took fifty dollars, I want a hundred. You embarrassed me in front of a few I want to destroy you in front of thousands. You attacked me, now I want to destroy your entire family or nation.
What God demanded then was a concept of fair retribution for wrongs in the context of their day. It was preparation for a more radical idea, mercy.
Look at your own life. Do you want what is fair when you are mistreated? or do you want more? Are you willing to go further and extend something else? to give what Jesus gave? Mercy?
Thursday, January 18, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan 18th
This is from today's readings of Exodus 16-20.
Exodus 16
Today I was tempted to write about chapter 20 where God speaks the ten commandments from the mountain, however, I wanted to take a step back and look at God's faithfulness and his provision.
This chapter begins with the complaints of the Israelites aobut being without food. God answers with both quail and manna. The manna is the what I wanted to look at particularly. Jesus, as we will see in the New Testament, refers to himself as the bread of life and in the Lord's supper he takes the unleavened bread and says it is his body.
The manna the Israelites received come regularly until the time they enter the promised land. For use the bread of life, Jesus is with us to strengthen us until we also enter the promised land. What we see here is God's faithfulness even to a people who weren't always faithful to him. This brings me comfort because there are times I know that I have failed the Lord and he has been faithful in forgiving me and giving me the bread of life. Strength to carry on.
Why? because God is good...
Exodus 16
Today I was tempted to write about chapter 20 where God speaks the ten commandments from the mountain, however, I wanted to take a step back and look at God's faithfulness and his provision.
This chapter begins with the complaints of the Israelites aobut being without food. God answers with both quail and manna. The manna is the what I wanted to look at particularly. Jesus, as we will see in the New Testament, refers to himself as the bread of life and in the Lord's supper he takes the unleavened bread and says it is his body.
The manna the Israelites received come regularly until the time they enter the promised land. For use the bread of life, Jesus is with us to strengthen us until we also enter the promised land. What we see here is God's faithfulness even to a people who weren't always faithful to him. This brings me comfort because there are times I know that I have failed the Lord and he has been faithful in forgiving me and giving me the bread of life. Strength to carry on.
Why? because God is good...
Wednesday, January 17, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan 17th
This is taken from today's readings in Exodus 11-15
Exodus 11
There is a lot of great material about the Passover and the picture of Jesus being the Passover lamb in the coming chapters, however, there is a key here is chapter 11 that I really want us to notice. God uses man's sin and stubbornness to show his power.
"Then the LORD said to Moses, “Pharaoh will not listen to you so that My wonders will be multiplied in the land of Egypt.” Moses and Aaron performed all these wonders before Pharaoh, yet the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he did not let the sons of Israel go out of his land." Exodus 11:9-10
Often people look at this and comment that it wasn't fair of God to harden Pharaoh's heart and then punish him for it, but the question may be first why was God able to harden his heart? My answer is God didn't change Pharoah's heart but his power caused it to do what it did. Like the old saying goes, "the same sun that melts butter hardens bricks." The difference wasn't the sun it was the material exposed to the sun. When Pharoah's heart was faced with God's power it hardens. He had before believed he was a god. The plagues one after another attacked and showed the powerlessness of the Egyptian gods on by one.
There were two "gods" left and both powers that took human life, the Egyptian god of death and Pharoah's army. Soon God would show his power over them as well, however, the entirety of the Exodus plagues was to show that God was God and there was no other. Unfortunately, the Israelites didn't learn there lesson very well, but that is a later conversation.
What I want to point out here is that God can and does use the stupidity of mankind to demonstrate his power and wonder. The greatest example of this is found in the cross of Jesus. Truly this was a demonstration of man's evil and stupidity, yet God knew all along that is was going to be the way of salvation for all of man, the exodus from the life of sin to God's new life.
Exodus 11
There is a lot of great material about the Passover and the picture of Jesus being the Passover lamb in the coming chapters, however, there is a key here is chapter 11 that I really want us to notice. God uses man's sin and stubbornness to show his power.
"Then the LORD said to Moses, “Pharaoh will not listen to you so that My wonders will be multiplied in the land of Egypt.” Moses and Aaron performed all these wonders before Pharaoh, yet the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he did not let the sons of Israel go out of his land." Exodus 11:9-10
Often people look at this and comment that it wasn't fair of God to harden Pharaoh's heart and then punish him for it, but the question may be first why was God able to harden his heart? My answer is God didn't change Pharoah's heart but his power caused it to do what it did. Like the old saying goes, "the same sun that melts butter hardens bricks." The difference wasn't the sun it was the material exposed to the sun. When Pharoah's heart was faced with God's power it hardens. He had before believed he was a god. The plagues one after another attacked and showed the powerlessness of the Egyptian gods on by one.
There were two "gods" left and both powers that took human life, the Egyptian god of death and Pharoah's army. Soon God would show his power over them as well, however, the entirety of the Exodus plagues was to show that God was God and there was no other. Unfortunately, the Israelites didn't learn there lesson very well, but that is a later conversation.
What I want to point out here is that God can and does use the stupidity of mankind to demonstrate his power and wonder. The greatest example of this is found in the cross of Jesus. Truly this was a demonstration of man's evil and stupidity, yet God knew all along that is was going to be the way of salvation for all of man, the exodus from the life of sin to God's new life.
Tuesday, January 16, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan 16th
This is taken from today's reading of Exodus 6-10.
Exodus 8
Have you ever noticed that the sinner and the saint seem to face the same problems? Sickness, old age, poverty, prejudice, and everything from the flu to cancer. What is the benefit of serving God if the same thing happens to everyone?
The reverse question was asked by Satan about Job, "Does Job serve God for nothing?" We will look at that later but the question does remain what is the benefit of serving God.
When we look into the New Testament, Jesus talks about the rewards that come by following him, but in the middle of it, he also talks about the dangers and trials. So what is the deal, and more importantly for our reading plan what does this have to do with Exodus chapter 8?
The answer to that is found in verse 22-23. Before these verses, the same plagues that fell on Egypt also fell on the children of Israel (kinda like most of our lives). However, in verse 22-23 God says things are going to change, “But on that day I will set apart the land of Goshen, where My people are living, so that no swarms of flies will be there, in order that you may know that I, the LORD, am in the midst of the land. “I will put a division between My people and your people. Tomorrow this sign will occur.”’
There comes a time when the differences between the saint and the sinner become clear. There is a time when all the trials, pain, and plagues stop for the Christian, when God says, No more. I believe these times come more often then we realize because the separation isn't as clear as it was in the days of the Exodus. One day we will see them clearly, in heaven, but sometimes we can see them now if we are willing to look.
Sometimes we don't recognize the difference because our focus is all on the wrong things. We miss the peace in the lives of believers because we don't see wealth. We see the frailty but not the support that others seem to lack or the peace of mine.
There is coming a time when it will all be clear, but just because we don't see it now doesn't mean there isn't a difference. There is and as we remember the life of Joseph, we know that sometimes there is a lot of suffering before the reward, but God will work it together for good (Romans 8:28)
Exodus 8
Have you ever noticed that the sinner and the saint seem to face the same problems? Sickness, old age, poverty, prejudice, and everything from the flu to cancer. What is the benefit of serving God if the same thing happens to everyone?
The reverse question was asked by Satan about Job, "Does Job serve God for nothing?" We will look at that later but the question does remain what is the benefit of serving God.
When we look into the New Testament, Jesus talks about the rewards that come by following him, but in the middle of it, he also talks about the dangers and trials. So what is the deal, and more importantly for our reading plan what does this have to do with Exodus chapter 8?
The answer to that is found in verse 22-23. Before these verses, the same plagues that fell on Egypt also fell on the children of Israel (kinda like most of our lives). However, in verse 22-23 God says things are going to change, “But on that day I will set apart the land of Goshen, where My people are living, so that no swarms of flies will be there, in order that you may know that I, the LORD, am in the midst of the land. “I will put a division between My people and your people. Tomorrow this sign will occur.”’
There comes a time when the differences between the saint and the sinner become clear. There is a time when all the trials, pain, and plagues stop for the Christian, when God says, No more. I believe these times come more often then we realize because the separation isn't as clear as it was in the days of the Exodus. One day we will see them clearly, in heaven, but sometimes we can see them now if we are willing to look.
Sometimes we don't recognize the difference because our focus is all on the wrong things. We miss the peace in the lives of believers because we don't see wealth. We see the frailty but not the support that others seem to lack or the peace of mine.
There is coming a time when it will all be clear, but just because we don't see it now doesn't mean there isn't a difference. There is and as we remember the life of Joseph, we know that sometimes there is a lot of suffering before the reward, but God will work it together for good (Romans 8:28)
Monday, January 15, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan 15th
Take from today's readings in Exodus 1-5
Exodus 1
Does God bless liars?
The obvious answer is no, in Revelations 21:8 we see all liars have their part in the lake of fire. Yet here in Exodus chapter one we see a story about women who lied to Pharaoh, their government, God prospered them. This isn’t the only place in scripture where God blesses someone who lies, so what is the deal? Is deceit always wrong? Or are there higher principles involved?
First, I want to look at the ten commandments. The commandments as someone once said are just that commandments, not suggestions. All of them are reaffirmed in the New Testament except the law of Sabbath even that isn’t abolished completely (more about that later). So, what is the command? Do not lie? No, do not bear false witness against your neighbor. The idea here seems to be that what is being said will bring harm to the neighbor. This specifically looks at the idea of testimony about someone which is false and will hurt them. I am also assuming will help you in some way.
Does this mean that if I tell a “white lie” that it is okay? No, Proverbs (I will not list them all now) tells us that God hates lying lips. So, what is the key?
I believe the deception we see God blessing first, protects, second, endangers, and ultimately fulfills. The first is protects. Protection is that the deception saves the (physical) live of another person. Second, the deception endangers the one telling it. The midwives in danger (except from God later) was in letting the children live. Their lie actually put them in very great danger. Pharaoh a man of his day (and many others) had no idea about woman and childbirth, so he believed them. If he hadn’t then there is no doubt he would have had them placed in prison or killed. The truth is that the danger they placed themselves in didn’t end it followed them, yet they did endanger their very lives to save the children they were called to protect. Side note: Lying to your spouse about their hair, clothes, or your children about the bird and the bees so to “protect them” (or yourself) isn’t even close to what these women did. Finally, their action fulfilled the ultimate purpose of God, in this case, to see the children of Israel grow and be blessed.
The danger, of course, is when we try to use the few exceptions to justify our own untruthfulness. The greatest danger in lying is actually to protect ourselves. This is where 99.9% of all lies take place. The danger is when we start making excuses to lie, it becomes more natural and instead of a tongue that tries to bring life, it becomes a tongue that lies. People lie to save the feelings of others, yet what they usually have is a problem with telling the truth in love. They lie for the greater good but in truth, it is for self-preservation.
At the end of this, what do we see a small exception on deception? It is like some medicines, at the right time and in the correct doses they can save a life, however, the rest of the time they bring only destruction and eventually death. The lesson: don’t use it unless there are no other choices and the only under the command of the Great Physician.
Friday, January 12, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan 12
Today's reading will end our time in Genesis. We will read Genesis 46-50.
Genesis 50
This is one of my favorite chapters in the Old Testament. Here we see the love and forgiveness of God demonstrated toward those who don’t deserve it. Now that Jacob was dead, Joseph’s brothers feared that Joseph will finally take revenge on them for what they did. However, Joseph has nothing even close to that in mind.
To me, Joseph seems saddened by his brothers’ fear. Joseph doesn’t say that what his brothers did wasn’t evil, he says in fact that they did mean evil. However, Joseph realizes that God had the final word on what happened. Joseph reminds his bothers of this, pointing out that everything has turned out well.
There is also no offer of forgiveness given by Joseph, but his attitude clearly demonstrates that he did not hold any feelings of unforgiveness. Joseph doesn’t give a mouthed “I forgive you,” but shows his trust in God through it all. Joseph’s words showed his brothers that as far as he was concerned there was nothing to forgive, because of that trust in God.
This is a great example for us. Jesus tells us that we need to forgive those who do wrong to us if we want forgiveness. Here we see why, God has the final word. Paul confirms this in Romans 8:28 when he reminds us that God will work all things together for good for those who trust and follow him. This being the case, we like Joseph, need to be willing not just to forgive those that ask but to forgive everyone who does us evil.
Let us treat those who wrong us with the attitude of Joseph, they meant it for evil (we don’t deny that), but we know God will work it to good.
Genesis 50
This is one of my favorite chapters in the Old Testament. Here we see the love and forgiveness of God demonstrated toward those who don’t deserve it. Now that Jacob was dead, Joseph’s brothers feared that Joseph will finally take revenge on them for what they did. However, Joseph has nothing even close to that in mind.
To me, Joseph seems saddened by his brothers’ fear. Joseph doesn’t say that what his brothers did wasn’t evil, he says in fact that they did mean evil. However, Joseph realizes that God had the final word on what happened. Joseph reminds his bothers of this, pointing out that everything has turned out well.
There is also no offer of forgiveness given by Joseph, but his attitude clearly demonstrates that he did not hold any feelings of unforgiveness. Joseph doesn’t give a mouthed “I forgive you,” but shows his trust in God through it all. Joseph’s words showed his brothers that as far as he was concerned there was nothing to forgive, because of that trust in God.
This is a great example for us. Jesus tells us that we need to forgive those who do wrong to us if we want forgiveness. Here we see why, God has the final word. Paul confirms this in Romans 8:28 when he reminds us that God will work all things together for good for those who trust and follow him. This being the case, we like Joseph, need to be willing not just to forgive those that ask but to forgive everyone who does us evil.
Let us treat those who wrong us with the attitude of Joseph, they meant it for evil (we don’t deny that), but we know God will work it to good.
Thursday, January 11, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan 11th
Today's reading Genesis 41-45
Genesis 41
Read the beginning of the first verse again “ at the end of two full years.” By this time, Joseph has been away from his father and family for over 13 years. After having a chance for someone to argue his case failed, he has waited two “full” years. I can only imagine. God had been given him an interpretation of a dream and then nothing. God seemed to have giving him hope and then making him wait. We know God was putting all the people into place, but for Joseph, like many of us, it may have seemed like God failed.
Earlier in Genesis, we see time and time again people trying to manipulate the circumstances rather than trusting God, but not Joseph. We see no complaints, just faithfulness. This is evident throughout the story, but no place more than in Genesis 50, which we will cover later.
The lesson we can see is the hardest one, waiting is difficult but necessary. The second lesson is your not alone, others have been there too.
Genesis 41
Read the beginning of the first verse again “ at the end of two full years.” By this time, Joseph has been away from his father and family for over 13 years. After having a chance for someone to argue his case failed, he has waited two “full” years. I can only imagine. God had been given him an interpretation of a dream and then nothing. God seemed to have giving him hope and then making him wait. We know God was putting all the people into place, but for Joseph, like many of us, it may have seemed like God failed.
Earlier in Genesis, we see time and time again people trying to manipulate the circumstances rather than trusting God, but not Joseph. We see no complaints, just faithfulness. This is evident throughout the story, but no place more than in Genesis 50, which we will cover later.
The lesson we can see is the hardest one, waiting is difficult but necessary. The second lesson is your not alone, others have been there too.
Wednesday, January 10, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan 10th
Today's reeading is Genesis 36-40
Genesis 36
Oh, NO, more more genealogies!
Why are these important we often ask. They are important for laying a foundation for the historic nature of the narrative. Here they lay the foundation for a people who are going to cause Israel some trouble when they enter the promised land, the Edonites. (Gen 36:31) "And these are the kings that reigned in the land of Edom, before there reigned any king over the children of Israel."
What does this have to do with us today?
Not much, but one can never know how the Word of God can touch someone’s lives. Rev. Samuel Padget and I talked about this once and he told me how God blessed him in a portion of scripture just about as tedious as these. (Don't worry I will share it when we get there.)
So don’t be discouraged, keep reading.
Genesis 36
Oh, NO, more more genealogies!
Why are these important we often ask. They are important for laying a foundation for the historic nature of the narrative. Here they lay the foundation for a people who are going to cause Israel some trouble when they enter the promised land, the Edonites. (Gen 36:31) "And these are the kings that reigned in the land of Edom, before there reigned any king over the children of Israel."
What does this have to do with us today?
Not much, but one can never know how the Word of God can touch someone’s lives. Rev. Samuel Padget and I talked about this once and he told me how God blessed him in a portion of scripture just about as tedious as these. (Don't worry I will share it when we get there.)
So don’t be discouraged, keep reading.
Tuesday, January 9, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan 9th
Today's reading is Genesis 31-35.
I don't know if you have seen the Mizpah Jewelry.
The idea is to give each half to friends or to lovers. The problem with it is the Mizpah was a covenant between enemies. Jacob as fleeing from Laban and Laban wanted to kill Jacob. However, God intervened. The solution to their disagreements was simple, they would stay away from one another, yet pray God would bless them as they would remain apart.
It would be nice if we could all get along, but the truth is we can’t. In the world to come we will, for then we will know even as we are known (1 Corinthians 13:12), but right now that isn’t the case. There has to be forgiveness, but trust is not the same. There are times when disagreement calls for separation. It would be best if this didn’t have to happen but in this world it does. Even Paul and Barnabas in Acts found themselves separating because Paul could not trust John Mark whom had left them before.
There are other places in the Bible (the apostate, abusive spouse, unrepentant Christians) where we are called to keep away. The idea isn’t for revenge but always for the benefit of everyone. This could be an extensive study, but for today’s writings I wanted to tell you that sometimes the best thing you can do for yourself and others is to forgive but stay away.
(If you like this piece, you can check it out at Joy Jewelry. I don't get a cut of the sales but it seemed right to give you the option, but please don't give it for the Biblical reason, that may cause offense, which the Bible isn't in favor of. But, if you can give it for the reason its sold then enjoy.)
I don't know if you have seen the Mizpah Jewelry.
The idea is to give each half to friends or to lovers. The problem with it is the Mizpah was a covenant between enemies. Jacob as fleeing from Laban and Laban wanted to kill Jacob. However, God intervened. The solution to their disagreements was simple, they would stay away from one another, yet pray God would bless them as they would remain apart.
It would be nice if we could all get along, but the truth is we can’t. In the world to come we will, for then we will know even as we are known (1 Corinthians 13:12), but right now that isn’t the case. There has to be forgiveness, but trust is not the same. There are times when disagreement calls for separation. It would be best if this didn’t have to happen but in this world it does. Even Paul and Barnabas in Acts found themselves separating because Paul could not trust John Mark whom had left them before.
There are other places in the Bible (the apostate, abusive spouse, unrepentant Christians) where we are called to keep away. The idea isn’t for revenge but always for the benefit of everyone. This could be an extensive study, but for today’s writings I wanted to tell you that sometimes the best thing you can do for yourself and others is to forgive but stay away.
(If you like this piece, you can check it out at Joy Jewelry. I don't get a cut of the sales but it seemed right to give you the option, but please don't give it for the Biblical reason, that may cause offense, which the Bible isn't in favor of. But, if you can give it for the reason its sold then enjoy.)
Monday, January 8, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan 8th
Today's reading is Genesis 26-30.
Genesis 27 We see the story of Rebekah and Jacob deceiving Issac. God had promised that Jacob, not Esau would be the one to receive the promise. Esau had sold his blessing to Jacob but now we see Isaac was preparing to side-step Esau's actions and give him the blessing in exchange for the meal he loved. Rebekah and Jacob did something to guarantee that Jacob would receive the blessing.
The problem with this story is that though Jacob was to be the one God wanted blessed, Rebekah did what so many do and tried and use human ingenuity to establish God's plan.
I don't believe God wanted Rebekah and Jacob to deceive Issac, God would have given Jacob the blessing but we and they miss out on the miracle God would have done because they didn't wait on God.
When we think of the Bible, we see this isn't a new concept, Sarah and Abraham didn't wait as did many others. Looking at the world around us, we see waiting on God is something people don't want to do. There are always ways people give to hurry up God's plan. Yet God teaches us to wait upon him, to not trust in our own devices.
Jacob didn't wait and as a result, he had to flee from his brother and later fear his brother's anger.
What has God promised you? Are you willing to wait for it?
It is hard, but it will be worth it.
Our shortcuts offer pain, God's offers something greater.
Let's wait on God.
Genesis 27 We see the story of Rebekah and Jacob deceiving Issac. God had promised that Jacob, not Esau would be the one to receive the promise. Esau had sold his blessing to Jacob but now we see Isaac was preparing to side-step Esau's actions and give him the blessing in exchange for the meal he loved. Rebekah and Jacob did something to guarantee that Jacob would receive the blessing.
The problem with this story is that though Jacob was to be the one God wanted blessed, Rebekah did what so many do and tried and use human ingenuity to establish God's plan.
I don't believe God wanted Rebekah and Jacob to deceive Issac, God would have given Jacob the blessing but we and they miss out on the miracle God would have done because they didn't wait on God.
When we think of the Bible, we see this isn't a new concept, Sarah and Abraham didn't wait as did many others. Looking at the world around us, we see waiting on God is something people don't want to do. There are always ways people give to hurry up God's plan. Yet God teaches us to wait upon him, to not trust in our own devices.
Jacob didn't wait and as a result, he had to flee from his brother and later fear his brother's anger.
What has God promised you? Are you willing to wait for it?
It is hard, but it will be worth it.
Our shortcuts offer pain, God's offers something greater.
Let's wait on God.
Friday, January 5, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan 5th
We end this week's reading with Genesis 21-25, and the one story in this reading that I have to stop and look at is the story of Abraham's testing in Genesis 22.
As I look at this portion of scripture in light of what I know about God, the test here isn't for God's sake, he knew Abraham's heart, it is for Abraham and us. This scripture, especially in light of Hebrews 11, demonstrates the faith of Abraham. Abraham believed that God was going to raise the promised son from the dead.
We see in this chapter a picture of Jesus. The one and only son given as a sacrifice. We hear Abraham's words that God would provide Himself a sacrifice which was literally true, God himself died for us. We see a son not fighting the will of his father. We see a ram caught by its head in a thorn bush, a reminder of Jesus on whose head was placed a crown of thorns. We have an angel proclaiming the news that would of life and so did an angel proclaim the news of Jesus's life. At the end we see the promise that through Abraham all the nations would be blessed, a promise fulfilled in Christ.
Jesus the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world (Rev. 13:8). Truly, when we stop and look closely, the Bible is always pointing us to Jesus
As I look at this portion of scripture in light of what I know about God, the test here isn't for God's sake, he knew Abraham's heart, it is for Abraham and us. This scripture, especially in light of Hebrews 11, demonstrates the faith of Abraham. Abraham believed that God was going to raise the promised son from the dead.
We see in this chapter a picture of Jesus. The one and only son given as a sacrifice. We hear Abraham's words that God would provide Himself a sacrifice which was literally true, God himself died for us. We see a son not fighting the will of his father. We see a ram caught by its head in a thorn bush, a reminder of Jesus on whose head was placed a crown of thorns. We have an angel proclaiming the news that would of life and so did an angel proclaim the news of Jesus's life. At the end we see the promise that through Abraham all the nations would be blessed, a promise fulfilled in Christ.
Jesus the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world (Rev. 13:8). Truly, when we stop and look closely, the Bible is always pointing us to Jesus
Thursday, January 4, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan 4
Genesis 19
God told Abraham that he was going to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah in chapter 18 and now we see the drama unfold. We see Lot a man who before this seemed to be a man of prominence (sitting in the gates was a sign of this at the time). We see that in spite of this he has no ability to change the minds of the men of the city, nor to convince his future sons-in-law to come with him. In the end, he leaves with nothing. It is a sad tale which ends in his own daughters doing something unthinkable.
There is much to consider in this story, however, I want to look at what God had promised to destroy. He promised to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah. Yet we see in this story that Lot's wife is also destroyed. Over 30 years ago, I heard a preacher talk about this. His thought was that Lot's wife was destroyed not for looking back at Sodom with relief that they had escaped the city, but in longing for the city she loved. In a sense, she still carried Sodom inside her and because of the Sodom inside her, she was destroyed.
I can't say this theory is correct, but I do believe it carries much merit. You see the sins of Sodom and Gomorrah was not just sexual immorality, though that was prominent, it was also injustice and oppression (Ezekiel 16:49-50). A side note, people on both sides of the issue want to point to one or the other as the cause of Sodom and Gomorrah's destruction but BOTH played a part.
However, the problem with Lot's wife was, she loved Sodom. Loving the wrong things is the problem Jesus said people struggle with. Whether it is money(Matt. 6:24; 1 Timothy 6:10), life, family (Matthew 10:38-39), lust, or the world's system (1 John 2:15-16); love for the wrong things always brings destruction.
How do you know what you love? Look at what you do. Remember our discussion on Noah two days ago? If you love God you are doing what he wants. If you aren't doing what God wants then your love might be weak or misplaced.
So what is the love of your heart?
God told Abraham that he was going to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah in chapter 18 and now we see the drama unfold. We see Lot a man who before this seemed to be a man of prominence (sitting in the gates was a sign of this at the time). We see that in spite of this he has no ability to change the minds of the men of the city, nor to convince his future sons-in-law to come with him. In the end, he leaves with nothing. It is a sad tale which ends in his own daughters doing something unthinkable.
There is much to consider in this story, however, I want to look at what God had promised to destroy. He promised to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah. Yet we see in this story that Lot's wife is also destroyed. Over 30 years ago, I heard a preacher talk about this. His thought was that Lot's wife was destroyed not for looking back at Sodom with relief that they had escaped the city, but in longing for the city she loved. In a sense, she still carried Sodom inside her and because of the Sodom inside her, she was destroyed.
I can't say this theory is correct, but I do believe it carries much merit. You see the sins of Sodom and Gomorrah was not just sexual immorality, though that was prominent, it was also injustice and oppression (Ezekiel 16:49-50). A side note, people on both sides of the issue want to point to one or the other as the cause of Sodom and Gomorrah's destruction but BOTH played a part.
However, the problem with Lot's wife was, she loved Sodom. Loving the wrong things is the problem Jesus said people struggle with. Whether it is money(Matt. 6:24; 1 Timothy 6:10), life, family (Matthew 10:38-39), lust, or the world's system (1 John 2:15-16); love for the wrong things always brings destruction.
How do you know what you love? Look at what you do. Remember our discussion on Noah two days ago? If you love God you are doing what he wants. If you aren't doing what God wants then your love might be weak or misplaced.
So what is the love of your heart?
Wednesday, January 3, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan 3
Genesis 11
(today's reading Genesis 11-15)
I have to thank my friend, Rev. Samuel Padget for today's thought. I had heard it before but after talking with him it settled deeply in my spirit.
In the beginning of Genesis, God told mankind to fill the earth. The idea was for mankind to spread out and not just stay in one place. God repeated that command to Noah and his family in Genesis 9:1.
Yet here in Genesis 11 we see mankind deciding to try and stay in one place (verse 4).
God solution was to confound the languages which caused the mankind to break apart and fill the earth as he commanded.
God believed that man needed to move away from the secure and should I say safe and launch out on their own. He believed it so much that even when He created woman He said, "for this cause shall a man leave his father and mother and cleave unto his wife."
Yet today we see more and more people wanting to stay safe and secure. We have people who aren't facing economic challenges staying with mom and dad, grandma and grandpa and having an extended adolescence.
We celebrate the idea of a safe and secure world where everything from food, housing, and a job are provided for us. We are adverse to risk, it seems to me, launching out.
Thoughtful quote:
"It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are." -- E.E. Cummings
However, when I look at history it is those who launch out who make a difference in the world. I have long argued that God wants to make us "all we can be" and how can we be that if we refuse to launch out.
Now some may say this doesn't matter anymore since the world is full of people (I could point out there are other planets in this solar system, but I will save that for another time). However, when we get to the New Testament we see another command, Go into all the world (Matt 28:18; Acts 1:8).
We see Jesus commanding his people to go, not to stay someplace safe but to go. He wants us to launch out and make a difference in the world.
So are you willing to Go? Are you willing to take a risk and launch out into what God has called you too? Then light the fuse and launch.
Tuesday, January 2, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey Jan 2nd
Genesis 6
Okay, the world was a bad place. I can get that. Can you imagine if someone like Stalin, Hitler, or your mother-in-law lived for 800 years? (Sorry mother-in-laws, I just couldn’t wouldn’t resist) This is the world of Noah, people lived a long time and that may have been part of the problem. Imagine the trouble a person could get into. I have seen what grudges do to people after 50 years, after 500 it’s amazing there were any people left. So, let's agree the world must have been a bad place. Now we see Noah. When he was born his father said, "He would bring us comfort" (see Genesis 5:29) but how Lamech expected Noah to accomplish this is unclear.
Yet was see something about Noah at the end of chapter 6 which does make him stand out, "He did everything just as God commanded."
Looking into Jesus words in John 14:15 we see something important here. Jesus said, "If you love me, keep my commands," or as other translations put it "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." How do we show God we love him? Obedience.
Perhaps what we miss here in Genesis 6 is not just a man obeying a deity, but a man who loves God enough to do what he asked him to do.
Perhaps the story of Noah isn't a man building an ark to save himself from an angry God but something more.
Perhaps the story of Noah and the ark is more of a love story? A man's love for God.
There is far more to find in today's readings (Genesis 6-10), but maybe this will cause you to ask yourself why are you obeying God? or maybe it's why you aren't?
Monday, January 1, 2018
TCN's Biblical Journey- Genesis 5
Genesis 5
I wonder about many of the stories behind the verses in this chapter. What was it like to live so long? What happened to Enoch when his child was born that caused him to start following God so closely that God took him away. Where did Enoch go? And if I could get away with what the ancient Israelites did and only put the important people in my family tree and leave out the rest (probably not, it’s not socially or intellectually acceptable today)? What was the deal with Methuselah’s name (man of the dart or judgment is coming) and why did he live so long? What was the deal with Noah bringing comfort concerning God’s curse? All good and interesting subjects but not what I am going to look at.
In the beginning of the chapter, we are reminded that God created male and female and called them Adam (Adam meaning earth, to be red, or to make). This showed an equality with men and women. It is also said that God made them (male and female) in his image. Could this be that even in a smaller form, a likeness, an image of God, that just one being could not contain what God truly is? I think maybe. However, the interesting thing is that the man and the woman were made in God’s image.
The problem comes later when Adam has children they are now in Adam’s image, not God’s. Something has happened, we know it as the fall, as sin entering into man. Sin changed Adam (and Eve) and now their children bear their fallen image not the image of God. Because of this image change, man doesn’t seek God naturally. The groundwork is laid for the next chapter.
The sad note is that our image is passed on to our children. Without a change, they will be just like us. However, that may not be a bad thing. Our children bearing our image may be a good thing if we reflect the image of God. We see Enoch changed and I can’t help but think the covenant God offers to Noah is a result of Enoch’s walk with God.
Biblical Journey- Genesis 1
Genesis 1
And so, it begins, Tell City Nazarene Church's year-long reading challenge and my writing a commentary on every chapter in the Bible. The plan is to take three years to do the commentary, Why so long? It is a huge project and one that must be done at a steady pace.
I could say it is what like God is doing, taking his time to do the job right, especially since humanity is so difficult.
I could say it is what like God is doing, taking his time to do the job right, especially since humanity is so difficult.
So how does God begin, “In the beginning, God.” Yes, I have started my project like God started His work, saying here I am starting everything. By comparison, this four-year project is small.
This first chapter is done in a poetic style. Does this mean that the method of creation wasn’t completed in seven days? Not necessarily, what it does line out is that God created everything, it had an order and a purpose.
Scientists argue for and against young earth and old earth possibilities. Both sides have facts and statistics on their side. The old earth proponents many of which deny God’s existence are the loudest and carry the most votes. However, when you consider at the end of the ninetieth-century scientist mostly believed in spontaneous evolution (meaning gnats, flies, and rats sprang out of garbage without reproduction) a loud voice that holds the majority doesn’t mean it’s correct. Both sides yell and accuse the other of all kinds of nasty thing but that is not the focus of this chapter. This chapter isn’t about the science, it is about authorship and authority.
Looking at this chapter we see that God is the creator and author of all life. He made it and before it was messed up it was good. It also lays the ground for the facts that God has authority over all he made, and he gave some of that to authority
In another setting found later in scripture we know that something has happened in this chapter, Jesus was crucified. Revelation 13:8b says Jesus the Lamb was, “the Lamb who was slain from the creation of the world.” Here in the last book of the Bible, we are reminded that Jesus was not an afterthought but was the plan from the beginning. I could talk about the creation of the space-time continuum and how from God’s perspective everything was completed at the beginning, but this confuses some people and others may doubt it, but whichever you believe, we cannot deny Jesus was not just here, but God’s plan for himself was set from the first words. I might even say the possible first words in a chronological Bible might be, “In the beginning, Jesus was slain.”
So now it’s your turn. What does this chapter say to you about how you should live?
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