by Katrina
LINK: Revelation 21:9-27
BACKGROUND
John describes the new city of Jerusalem. The city is called both the wife and the bride. Israel was often referred to as the "wife of God," and the "bride of Christ" refers to the church. The twelve tribes of Israel are inscribed on her gates, representing Israel, and the twelve apostles are on the foundation stones, representing the church. The city is described as shining brilliantly of the glory of God. The inhabitants will come from all nations, but they will be only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life. Only those who belong to God will be present.
One of the best things about the city is that it will not need sun, moon, or any other light. The glory of God will be present to illumine it. Jesus himself will be the light. There will be no need for a temple in this city, because God's presence will be everywhere all the time.
There will be no sin in the city. There will be nothing unclean. Only what demonstrates the glory of God and His holiness will be there.
REFLECTION
Imagine yourself walking down that golden street made of such pure gold that it looks like transparent glass. You are surrounded by precious stones - jasper, sapphire, chalcedony, emerald, sardonyx, sardius, chrysolite, beryl, topaz, chrysoprase, jacinth, and amethyst. (I don't even know what some of those are, but I bet they're gorgeous!) The twelve gates are each made of one huge pearl. The names of the twelve tribes of Israel are inscribed on them. The foundation stones have the names of the twelve apostles (I'm guessing Paul's name replaces Judas's). Jesus Himself shines his glorious light everywhere. Believers from all over the world are there. There is no sin, no sorrow, no sadness, no death, no crying, no pain. There is only perfection surrounding you. There is nothing between you and the very presence of God! Just imagine!!
APPLICATION
Is your name written in the Lamb's book of life? Rejoice!
PRAYER
We praise you, God, that one day you will wipe out the world as we know it with all its sin and suffering, and you will make a new place free of all sin and suffering. You will call out your own people from nations all over the world. You will shine your glory for all to see. And we will be in your presence! What an exciting day to look forward to! Amen!
FINAL NOTE
This is my final post for BBC. It has been a wonderful journey through the Bible for the past (almost) three years. I appreciate Carol letting Becky and me participate on a regular basis. It has been richly rewarding both to write and to read the posts here. And it has been invaluable time with the Lord in his word. It has been an exciting three years with Jesus! ~ Katrina
Showing posts with label Other People's Posts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Other People's Posts. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Monday, November 8, 2010
Revelation 21:1-8 - A New Heaven and Earth
by Katrina
LINK: Revelation 21:1-8
BACKGROUND
God will make a new heaven and earth after the destruction of the old. There will be a new holy city of Jerusalem. The city is compared to a beautiful bride. In this city, God will dwell among men. He will wipe away their tears, remove all death, crying, pain, and mourning. He will make everything new and overflowing with life. The citizens of this beautiful city will be those who have overcome sin. While those who are overcome by sin will experience a second death in the lake of fire.
REFLECTION
What began in Genesis, God brings to completion at the end of Revelation.
APPLICATION
All believers are "overcomers" and will inherit eternal life in the eternal city. "For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world -- our faith. And who is the one who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?" (1 John 5:4-5). "And the witness is this, that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has the life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have the life" (1 John 5:11-12).
As believers, we have been given a new life, one that is not enslaved to sin. Our old self was crucified so that our body of sin might be done away with and that we would no longer be slaves to sin. For anyone who has died to self is freed from sin (Rom 6:6-7). We ought to consider ourselves dead to sin, no longer being drawn by its attraction. Instead, we ought to live for God in Jesus. Sin should not rule over us anymore (Rom 6:11-13). Once we are saved from sin, we must live out our freedom from sin. Let's live our lives as overcomers!
PRAYER
Praise God today for the ability to overcome sin. If your life is overcome by sin rather than having sin conquered, seek God's help. Spend some time in Romans 6-8 and take an honest look at both your sin and what Jesus has done to free you from your sin. Spend much time in prayer about it, and seek out a godly person who will hold you accountable to growing. Let's become true overcomers who are not ruled by sin.
LINK: Revelation 21:1-8
BACKGROUND
God will make a new heaven and earth after the destruction of the old. There will be a new holy city of Jerusalem. The city is compared to a beautiful bride. In this city, God will dwell among men. He will wipe away their tears, remove all death, crying, pain, and mourning. He will make everything new and overflowing with life. The citizens of this beautiful city will be those who have overcome sin. While those who are overcome by sin will experience a second death in the lake of fire.
REFLECTION
What began in Genesis, God brings to completion at the end of Revelation.
- heavens and earth created (Gen 1:1) . . . . new heavens and earth (Rev 21:1)
- sun was created (Gen 1:16) . . . . no sun will be needed (Rev 21:23)
- night established (Gen 1:5) . . . . there will be no night (Rev 22:5)
- seas created (Gen 1:10) . . . . there will be no sea (Rev 21:1)
- man sinned (Gen 3) . . . . man overcomes sin (Rev 21:7)
- curse established (Gen 3:14-17) . . . . curse removed (Rev 22:3)
- sorrow and pain began (Gen 3:17) . . . . no more tears or pain (Rev 21:4)
- death enters (Gen 3:19) . . . . no more death (Rev 21:4)
- man blocked from tree of life (Gen 3:24) . . . . access to the tree of life (Rev 22:14)
APPLICATION
All believers are "overcomers" and will inherit eternal life in the eternal city. "For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world -- our faith. And who is the one who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?" (1 John 5:4-5). "And the witness is this, that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has the life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have the life" (1 John 5:11-12).
As believers, we have been given a new life, one that is not enslaved to sin. Our old self was crucified so that our body of sin might be done away with and that we would no longer be slaves to sin. For anyone who has died to self is freed from sin (Rom 6:6-7). We ought to consider ourselves dead to sin, no longer being drawn by its attraction. Instead, we ought to live for God in Jesus. Sin should not rule over us anymore (Rom 6:11-13). Once we are saved from sin, we must live out our freedom from sin. Let's live our lives as overcomers!
PRAYER
Praise God today for the ability to overcome sin. If your life is overcome by sin rather than having sin conquered, seek God's help. Spend some time in Romans 6-8 and take an honest look at both your sin and what Jesus has done to free you from your sin. Spend much time in prayer about it, and seek out a godly person who will hold you accountable to growing. Let's become true overcomers who are not ruled by sin.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Revelation 20 - Victory and Judgment
by Becky
LINK: Revelation 20
This is my last post for Bible Book Club and what a journey it has been! Thanks Carol, for having the vision for this and then implementing it. It's been a joy, both the reading and the writing. I am going to miss doing this with you and Katrina!
I have learned SO much. I am more in awe of our God and His Word than ever before. How miraculous that this Book of many books, written over centuries, is so unified. From beginning to end it tells the same story and echoes the same theme. God is in charge! Jesus is our Redeemer. There is conflict and climax, and best of all a happy ending and it's all true!
BACKGROUND
Satan, that ancient serpent, is bound and cast into a bottomless pit for 1000 years. Remember that this is symbolic! The point is that God places restrictions on Satan's ability to do harm for a long, but limited, period of time. Then believers are seen on thrones, judging and reigning. Thoughts on just when all this happens depends on the millennial view a person holds. (In fact, interpretation of this whole chapter depends on which view of the 1,000 years we hold.) Some believe it will happen in the future in a physical sense, or in the future in a kind of "golden" age, while others believe that Satan, though still active, is limited and bound by God now. Jesus' death on the cross has limited Satan's ability to deceive. We as believers are reigning now as a spiritual kingdom of priests because Jesus reigns in our hearts.
Satan is released to deceive the nations. He gathers a huge force and attacks God's people and God's city. Fire come from heaven and consumes the attacking armies. Then Satan, the great betrayer, is thrown into a lake of fire, with the beast and the false prophet, where they are tormented forever and ever.
Next comes a judgment before a great white throne. All the dead, no matter their status in life, are judged there, judged by what is written in all the books. Those whose names are not found in the Book of Life are thrown into the lake of fire, along with death and the grave.
REFLECTION
I don't begin to pretend that I understand all of this chapter! There are many mysteries, which God will make clear in His time. One thing I do know is that God is in charge! We shouldn't let different interpretations of this chapter and views of the millennium, divide us. Christ will unite those of us who are believers, no matter when the millennium is! We can all agree on that.
Satan IS defeated. It's just a matter of time.
Judgment will come. Those whose names are not written in the Book of Life are found "guilty." Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the LIFE. No one comes to the Father except through Him. (John 14:6)
APPLICATION
Is your name in the Book of Life? Have you trusted in Jesus' death and resurrection for your eternal life? The deeds we do don't save us. They are only the evidence that we have life through the Lord Jesus.
This chapter gives me hope and strength. I think that may be a strange thing to say, but it's reassuring to me that God is directing history toward a sure and certain conclusion. We don't go through endless cycle after cycle. The great conflict will reach a climax and be resolved. Satan is defeated! All those who rally behind him are defeated. Death is defeated. There is no more need for the grave.
Read on. It gets better!
PRAYER
Help us to live victoriously today, Father, since we know how history ends. We know the whole story, maybe only snatches and hints of it, but you make very clear that you are in charge and you have a plan. We want to serve you now. We want to trust you and obey you. Thank you that Jesus came and died so that we can have life, so that our names are written in that Book of Life. We love you.
LINK: Revelation 20
This is my last post for Bible Book Club and what a journey it has been! Thanks Carol, for having the vision for this and then implementing it. It's been a joy, both the reading and the writing. I am going to miss doing this with you and Katrina!
I have learned SO much. I am more in awe of our God and His Word than ever before. How miraculous that this Book of many books, written over centuries, is so unified. From beginning to end it tells the same story and echoes the same theme. God is in charge! Jesus is our Redeemer. There is conflict and climax, and best of all a happy ending and it's all true!
BACKGROUND
Satan, that ancient serpent, is bound and cast into a bottomless pit for 1000 years. Remember that this is symbolic! The point is that God places restrictions on Satan's ability to do harm for a long, but limited, period of time. Then believers are seen on thrones, judging and reigning. Thoughts on just when all this happens depends on the millennial view a person holds. (In fact, interpretation of this whole chapter depends on which view of the 1,000 years we hold.) Some believe it will happen in the future in a physical sense, or in the future in a kind of "golden" age, while others believe that Satan, though still active, is limited and bound by God now. Jesus' death on the cross has limited Satan's ability to deceive. We as believers are reigning now as a spiritual kingdom of priests because Jesus reigns in our hearts.
Satan is released to deceive the nations. He gathers a huge force and attacks God's people and God's city. Fire come from heaven and consumes the attacking armies. Then Satan, the great betrayer, is thrown into a lake of fire, with the beast and the false prophet, where they are tormented forever and ever.
Next comes a judgment before a great white throne. All the dead, no matter their status in life, are judged there, judged by what is written in all the books. Those whose names are not found in the Book of Life are thrown into the lake of fire, along with death and the grave.
REFLECTION
I don't begin to pretend that I understand all of this chapter! There are many mysteries, which God will make clear in His time. One thing I do know is that God is in charge! We shouldn't let different interpretations of this chapter and views of the millennium, divide us. Christ will unite those of us who are believers, no matter when the millennium is! We can all agree on that.
Satan IS defeated. It's just a matter of time.
Judgment will come. Those whose names are not written in the Book of Life are found "guilty." Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the LIFE. No one comes to the Father except through Him. (John 14:6)
APPLICATION
Is your name in the Book of Life? Have you trusted in Jesus' death and resurrection for your eternal life? The deeds we do don't save us. They are only the evidence that we have life through the Lord Jesus.
This chapter gives me hope and strength. I think that may be a strange thing to say, but it's reassuring to me that God is directing history toward a sure and certain conclusion. We don't go through endless cycle after cycle. The great conflict will reach a climax and be resolved. Satan is defeated! All those who rally behind him are defeated. Death is defeated. There is no more need for the grave.
Read on. It gets better!
PRAYER
Help us to live victoriously today, Father, since we know how history ends. We know the whole story, maybe only snatches and hints of it, but you make very clear that you are in charge and you have a plan. We want to serve you now. We want to trust you and obey you. Thank you that Jesus came and died so that we can have life, so that our names are written in that Book of Life. We love you.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Revelation 16 - The Seven Bowls
by Katrina
LINK: Revelation 16
BACKGROUND
In this chapter, the seven bowls of God's wrath are poured out.
first bowl - loathsome and malignant sores upon those who had the mark of the beast and worshiped the image
second bowl - waters turn to blood and all living creatures of the sea died
third bowl - freshwater turned to blood
fourth bowl - the heat of the sun increased so as to scorch man on the earth
fifth bowl - darkness on the kingdom of the beast
sixth bowl - the Euphrates River dried up
seventh bowl - natural disasters cause widespread destruction
Along with the sixth bowl, there is a gathering of forces for a great war. They gather in a place called Har-Magedon in Hebrew. This is where we get the word "Armageddon." "Har-Magedon" or "har Megiddo" means the hill of Megiddo. Megiddo means "place of troops." This particular place is also known as the Plain of Esdraelon and the Valley of Jezreel. The area is about fourteen miles wide and twenty miles long. Napoleon called it "the most natural battlefield of the whole earth."
REFLECTION
Once again, man's response to these cataclysmic events is to blaspheme God. When confronted with God's magnificent power, they do not fear him. When given repeated opportunity to repent, they do not. What a sad end.
APPLICATION
This makes me want to help people understand their condition in sin and their position before a holy God! Our God is one of compassion, waiting and giving many opportunities for man to repent.
PRAYER
Pray for those you know who are unsaved and ask God to lead you in sharing the good news of Jesus with them!
LINK: Revelation 16
BACKGROUND
In this chapter, the seven bowls of God's wrath are poured out.
first bowl - loathsome and malignant sores upon those who had the mark of the beast and worshiped the image
second bowl - waters turn to blood and all living creatures of the sea died
third bowl - freshwater turned to blood
fourth bowl - the heat of the sun increased so as to scorch man on the earth
fifth bowl - darkness on the kingdom of the beast
sixth bowl - the Euphrates River dried up
seventh bowl - natural disasters cause widespread destruction
Along with the sixth bowl, there is a gathering of forces for a great war. They gather in a place called Har-Magedon in Hebrew. This is where we get the word "Armageddon." "Har-Magedon" or "har Megiddo" means the hill of Megiddo. Megiddo means "place of troops." This particular place is also known as the Plain of Esdraelon and the Valley of Jezreel. The area is about fourteen miles wide and twenty miles long. Napoleon called it "the most natural battlefield of the whole earth."
REFLECTION
Once again, man's response to these cataclysmic events is to blaspheme God. When confronted with God's magnificent power, they do not fear him. When given repeated opportunity to repent, they do not. What a sad end.
APPLICATION
This makes me want to help people understand their condition in sin and their position before a holy God! Our God is one of compassion, waiting and giving many opportunities for man to repent.
PRAYER
Pray for those you know who are unsaved and ask God to lead you in sharing the good news of Jesus with them!
Monday, November 1, 2010
Revelation 15 - Worship Scene in Heaven
by Katrina
LINK: Revelation 15
BACKGROUND
Now John sees a scene in heaven. He sees those who had been victorious over the beast praising and worshiping God. They sang the song of Moses and of the Lamb. A song of Moses recorded in scripture (and likely referred to here) is in Exodus 15:2-18 and was sung right after the Israelites crossed the Red Sea. This song in Revelation is similar.
Then John saw seven angels who were each given a bowl of plagues, or wrath. These seven bowls are God's final wrath. This is the third woe. The angels emerged from the holy place of God's temple -- from the very presence of God. Once they came out of the temple, the temple was filled with smoke and no one could enter it again. The smoke is an indication of God's holiness, glory, and power. No one would be able to enter the temple again until all seven bowls of God's wrath would be poured out.
REFLECTION
The scene at the beginning gives comforting assurance to all believers, but especially to those who face tribulation and persecution. It's always good to be reminded of who God really is. He is the holy one, the only one we need fear, the righteous one, the powerful one, and the only one worthy of our worship.
APPLICATION
Everyone will one day worship the Lord. We have the opportunity to worship him now! Let's do so today. Meditate on the passage in this chapter or in Exodus 15. Make it your praise to God today.
PRAYER
Make your prayers today be mostly worship of our great God. If you aren't sure where to start, make a list of God's attributes and begin praising him for who he is.
LINK: Revelation 15
BACKGROUND
Now John sees a scene in heaven. He sees those who had been victorious over the beast praising and worshiping God. They sang the song of Moses and of the Lamb. A song of Moses recorded in scripture (and likely referred to here) is in Exodus 15:2-18 and was sung right after the Israelites crossed the Red Sea. This song in Revelation is similar.
Great and marvelous are Your works, O Lord God the Almighty;
Righteous and true are Your ways, King of the nations!
Who will not fear, O Lord, and glorify Your name?
For You alone are holy;
For all the nations will come and worship before You,
For Your righteous acts have been revealed.
Then John saw seven angels who were each given a bowl of plagues, or wrath. These seven bowls are God's final wrath. This is the third woe. The angels emerged from the holy place of God's temple -- from the very presence of God. Once they came out of the temple, the temple was filled with smoke and no one could enter it again. The smoke is an indication of God's holiness, glory, and power. No one would be able to enter the temple again until all seven bowls of God's wrath would be poured out.
REFLECTION
The scene at the beginning gives comforting assurance to all believers, but especially to those who face tribulation and persecution. It's always good to be reminded of who God really is. He is the holy one, the only one we need fear, the righteous one, the powerful one, and the only one worthy of our worship.
APPLICATION
Everyone will one day worship the Lord. We have the opportunity to worship him now! Let's do so today. Meditate on the passage in this chapter or in Exodus 15. Make it your praise to God today.
PRAYER
Make your prayers today be mostly worship of our great God. If you aren't sure where to start, make a list of God's attributes and begin praising him for who he is.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Revelation 14 - A Song, Some Warnings, and a Harvest
by Becky
LINK: Revelation 14
BACKGROUND
This chapter concludes John's vision of the conflict between the Church and the world - which is really a deeper conflict - between Christ (the seed of the woman) and Satan (the dragon).
John heard of 144,000 in Revelation 7, which we discussed last week. Now, once again, we meet the 144,000 - and see them. I see no reason to think that this is a different group or to think that this is a literal number, when almost everything else in the book is symbolic.
Before John focuses on the group, he hears a voice! "And I heard a voice from heaven like the roar of many waters and like the sound of loud thunder. The voice I heard was like the sound of harpists playing on their harp and they were singing a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and before the elders. No one could learn that song except the 144,000 who had been redeemed from the earth."(Revelation 14:2,3 ESV) The voice was mighty (like a mighty waterfall or thunder) and also melodic and peaceful, like many harps. Notice the unity - one voice. The redeemed are singing with one voice.
It seems to me that these 144,000 represent all believers from all places and through all time. Look at what characterizes them: they are redeemed (v 3); they have kept themselves pure (v 4). (I believe this means they remained faithful to Christ - spiritually pure. I'm sure there are other thoughts out there, which is fine. But 2 Cor 11: 2 says, "For I feel a divine jealousy for you, since I betrothed you to one husband, to present you as a pure virgin to Christ."). They follow the Lamb wherever He goes (v4). They are first fruits from mankind to God. Humanity is headed for the final judgment, which is referred to as a harvest in the gospels (Mt. 9:37; 13:30; Lk. 10:2; Jn. 4:35). Believers are the first fruits, set aside to God, of that harvest of mankind. In contrast to those who are marked with the beast's name on their foreheads or hands (see the end of Rev. 13), these people's foreheads are sealed with the names of the Lamb and the Father. Finally, they resemble that Lamb. They live in truth and are blameless (because of that Lamb!).
Remember, they are singing! We see singing again in the beginning of chapter 15, but between the songs are some angels. As my ESV Study Bible puts it,"Between these anthems John sees three angels who announce impending judgment (14:6–13) and three who order and execute harvests (14:15–20). At the center, between the three announcing angels and the three harvesting angels, John sees a seventh figure, one like a son of man, gathering his grain from the earth (14:14). Despite the beast's cruel persecution (ch. 13), these visions (like those in chs. 7 and 10–11) provide reassurance that God and the Lamb rule..." and that the Church is victorious in the end.
The first of the first three angels proclaims the eternal gospel and the coming judgment while he gives a clear call to all the peoples of the earth to worship God. The second angel announces judgment on Babylon, which represents the seduction of living for pleasure. The third angel announces that those who worship the beast will experience God's wrath and eternal unrest and torment.
There is a parenthesis then, a kind of benediction. "Here is the call for the endurance of the saints, those who keep the commandments of God, and their faith in Jesus... Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on." (Revelation 14: 12-13, ESV)
The chapter returns to the narrative, to a scene of a harvest, overseen by "one like a son of man, with a golden crown on his head, and a sharp sickle in his hand." (Revelation 14: 14, ESV) Two more angels appear to aid in the harvest of the earth. It is finally time for the harvest that had been promised.
REFLECTION
One thought that has hit me as I've read this chapter and puzzled over it, is that what God says will happen will happen. All those parables in the gospels about the harvest are echoed here. In the gospels the farmer is told to leave the tares with the wheat until the harvest. Jesus came first as a gospel sower, but now it's clear that He's the one with the sickle.
We are either God's or we're not. There's no in between. We are either sealed with the name of the Father and the Lamb or we're marked by the beast.
God gives warning! Over and over again He makes clear His gospel. He makes clear that we can't live in Babylon (serve our own desires)or live for Satan (the beast) and have no consequences. There will come a judgment.
I will end with a happy thought! Look at the beginning of the chapter again and how the song is described... like mighty water and the sound of harps. The voices sang in unity! No more factions and disagreements. I do look forward to that!
APPLICATION
If you are living for yourself and fighting against Christ, please reconsider. Judgment will come. God gives clear warning.
If you are struggling as a believer, take heart! This story has a joyous ending.
PRAYER
Father, this chapter (this book) is hard to understand. Help us to glean from it what you intend. Help us to live for you - to keep on keeping on in faithfulness. We look forward to the day when we will know complete joy and unity in worship of you!
LINK: Revelation 14
BACKGROUND
This chapter concludes John's vision of the conflict between the Church and the world - which is really a deeper conflict - between Christ (the seed of the woman) and Satan (the dragon).
John heard of 144,000 in Revelation 7, which we discussed last week. Now, once again, we meet the 144,000 - and see them. I see no reason to think that this is a different group or to think that this is a literal number, when almost everything else in the book is symbolic.
Before John focuses on the group, he hears a voice! "And I heard a voice from heaven like the roar of many waters and like the sound of loud thunder. The voice I heard was like the sound of harpists playing on their harp and they were singing a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and before the elders. No one could learn that song except the 144,000 who had been redeemed from the earth."(Revelation 14:2,3 ESV) The voice was mighty (like a mighty waterfall or thunder) and also melodic and peaceful, like many harps. Notice the unity - one voice. The redeemed are singing with one voice.
It seems to me that these 144,000 represent all believers from all places and through all time. Look at what characterizes them: they are redeemed (v 3); they have kept themselves pure (v 4). (I believe this means they remained faithful to Christ - spiritually pure. I'm sure there are other thoughts out there, which is fine. But 2 Cor 11: 2 says, "For I feel a divine jealousy for you, since I betrothed you to one husband, to present you as a pure virgin to Christ."). They follow the Lamb wherever He goes (v4). They are first fruits from mankind to God. Humanity is headed for the final judgment, which is referred to as a harvest in the gospels (Mt. 9:37; 13:30; Lk. 10:2; Jn. 4:35). Believers are the first fruits, set aside to God, of that harvest of mankind. In contrast to those who are marked with the beast's name on their foreheads or hands (see the end of Rev. 13), these people's foreheads are sealed with the names of the Lamb and the Father. Finally, they resemble that Lamb. They live in truth and are blameless (because of that Lamb!).
Remember, they are singing! We see singing again in the beginning of chapter 15, but between the songs are some angels. As my ESV Study Bible puts it,"Between these anthems John sees three angels who announce impending judgment (14:6–13) and three who order and execute harvests (14:15–20). At the center, between the three announcing angels and the three harvesting angels, John sees a seventh figure, one like a son of man, gathering his grain from the earth (14:14). Despite the beast's cruel persecution (ch. 13), these visions (like those in chs. 7 and 10–11) provide reassurance that God and the Lamb rule..." and that the Church is victorious in the end.
The first of the first three angels proclaims the eternal gospel and the coming judgment while he gives a clear call to all the peoples of the earth to worship God. The second angel announces judgment on Babylon, which represents the seduction of living for pleasure. The third angel announces that those who worship the beast will experience God's wrath and eternal unrest and torment.
There is a parenthesis then, a kind of benediction. "Here is the call for the endurance of the saints, those who keep the commandments of God, and their faith in Jesus... Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on." (Revelation 14: 12-13, ESV)
The chapter returns to the narrative, to a scene of a harvest, overseen by "one like a son of man, with a golden crown on his head, and a sharp sickle in his hand." (Revelation 14: 14, ESV) Two more angels appear to aid in the harvest of the earth. It is finally time for the harvest that had been promised.
REFLECTION
One thought that has hit me as I've read this chapter and puzzled over it, is that what God says will happen will happen. All those parables in the gospels about the harvest are echoed here. In the gospels the farmer is told to leave the tares with the wheat until the harvest. Jesus came first as a gospel sower, but now it's clear that He's the one with the sickle.
We are either God's or we're not. There's no in between. We are either sealed with the name of the Father and the Lamb or we're marked by the beast.
God gives warning! Over and over again He makes clear His gospel. He makes clear that we can't live in Babylon (serve our own desires)or live for Satan (the beast) and have no consequences. There will come a judgment.
I will end with a happy thought! Look at the beginning of the chapter again and how the song is described... like mighty water and the sound of harps. The voices sang in unity! No more factions and disagreements. I do look forward to that!
APPLICATION
If you are living for yourself and fighting against Christ, please reconsider. Judgment will come. God gives clear warning.
If you are struggling as a believer, take heart! This story has a joyous ending.
PRAYER
Father, this chapter (this book) is hard to understand. Help us to glean from it what you intend. Help us to live for you - to keep on keeping on in faithfulness. We look forward to the day when we will know complete joy and unity in worship of you!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Revelation 9 - Two More Trumpets
by Katrina
LINK: Revelation 9
BACKGROUND
The first four trumpets brought destruction of 1/3 of the heavens and earth. Today we will look at the 5th and 6th trumpets.
5th trumpet - Demons are permitted to torment unbelievers for five months
6th trumpet - Destruction of 1/3 of mankind on the earth, probably by demonic forces
If the events described in the last few chapters are chronological, then half the human population is now dead. (Chapter 6 told of 1/4 of humanity dying.)
REFLECTION
It was expected that when one-third of mankind died in these horrible plagues that the other two-thirds would repent and turn to God. But they did not repent. They continued in their idolatry, demon worship, sorceries, murders, immorality, and thievery.
God gives mankind plenty of opportunity to repent, but man refuses to do so! You might remember what Peter said when referring to the fact that Jesus had not yet returned as the early church expected Him to. "The Lord is not slow about His promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9). God has been extremely patient, but one day that patience will end and His wrath will pour out.
APPLICATION
Read and meditate on Psalm 115, and worship the Lord!
PRAYER
The Lord is mindful of those who fear Him. Our God is in the heavens, and He does whatever He pleases. As for us, we will bless the Lord from this time forward and forever. Praise the Lord!
LINK: Revelation 9
BACKGROUND
The first four trumpets brought destruction of 1/3 of the heavens and earth. Today we will look at the 5th and 6th trumpets.
5th trumpet - Demons are permitted to torment unbelievers for five months
6th trumpet - Destruction of 1/3 of mankind on the earth, probably by demonic forces
If the events described in the last few chapters are chronological, then half the human population is now dead. (Chapter 6 told of 1/4 of humanity dying.)
REFLECTION
It was expected that when one-third of mankind died in these horrible plagues that the other two-thirds would repent and turn to God. But they did not repent. They continued in their idolatry, demon worship, sorceries, murders, immorality, and thievery.
God gives mankind plenty of opportunity to repent, but man refuses to do so! You might remember what Peter said when referring to the fact that Jesus had not yet returned as the early church expected Him to. "The Lord is not slow about His promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9). God has been extremely patient, but one day that patience will end and His wrath will pour out.
APPLICATION
Read and meditate on Psalm 115, and worship the Lord!
PRAYER
The Lord is mindful of those who fear Him. Our God is in the heavens, and He does whatever He pleases. As for us, we will bless the Lord from this time forward and forever. Praise the Lord!
Monday, October 25, 2010
Revelation 8 - Silence and Trumpets
by Katrina
LINK: Revelation 8
BACKGROUND
Imagine . . . The throne is surrounded by worshipers crying out, "Salvation to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb" and "Amen, blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever. Amen." There are souls from every nation and all tribes of peoples and tongues standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They are clothed in white robes and holding palm branches in their hands. They came out of great tribulation but have washed their robes white in the blood of the Lamb. Now they are before the throne of God day and night, serving Him. . . It's a scene of joy bubbling over and constant praise to God.
Then the seventh seal is opened . . . and suddenly all goes silent. For thirty minutes there is no sound of worship, or anything else, in heaven. One half hour of absolute silence.
The seven angels receive seven trumpets. Another angel receives a great deal of incense to add to the prayers of all the saints. The smoke of the incense mixed with the prayers of the saints goes up to God. God hears the prayers of all believers, especially those suffering at the hands of unbelievers. For centuries, believers have prayed, "Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven." David prayed in the imprecatory psalms for God to vindicate His people and serve justice to His enemies. Now these prayers are about to be answered.
The angel threw fire/coals from the altar to the earth, and there were great peals of thunder and flashes of lightning and an earthquake. This represents the judgment of God on the earth. The silence is over, and the seven trumpets begin.
1st trumpet - destruction of 1/3 of the earth
2nd trumpet - destruction of 1/3 of the sea and its creatures
3rd trumpet - destruction of1/3 of the rivers and springs (fresh water)
4th trumpet - destruction of 1/3 of the heavens (sky)
So far, the judgment has been "natural" in that it affects the natural creation of the heavens and earth. But great woe is predicted with the next three trumpets. We'll see the 5th and 6th trumpets tomorrow.
REFLECTION
The incense reminds me of the Law that God established with the temple/tabernacle. There was an altar of incense that the high priest was to tend to every morning and evening. This golden altar was near the ark of the covenant, close to the presence of God (Exodus 30). On the annual Day of Atonement, the high priest would offer sacrifices for his own sin. Then the priest would enter the Holy of Holies into the presence of God. When he entered this area, he was to bring incense along with the blood from the sacrifice and allow its smoke to cover the mercy seat on the ark of the covenant. If the priest failed to bring the burning incense, he would be struck dead when he entered God's presence (Leviticus 16). The burning incense is linked to man's ability to commune with God.
APPLICATION
Here, in Revelation 8, the prayers of believers are mixed with the incense. This golden altar is before the throne, just like the Old Testament golden altar was before the ark of the covenant. The prayers of believers really do ascend to God's presence. God hears our prayers. He is not deaf to His children. Somehow, some of those prayers are involved in the judgment at the end. He is waiting for the time of judgment to complete the answer, but God will carry out what He has promised. The purpose of prayer, then, is to get God's will (not man's) accomplished on earth. Prayer is serious business! And we would be wise to keep the altar of our prayers close to the throne of God where it belongs!
PRAYER
Lord, we don't understand all the things you will do in the end. But we do know that you tell us to pray, and you tell us to pray for your will, your work to be done. May we draw so close to you that our prayers truly reflect your will. May our prayers be a sweet aroma to you. In the name of Jesus, amen.
LINK: Revelation 8
BACKGROUND
Imagine . . . The throne is surrounded by worshipers crying out, "Salvation to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb" and "Amen, blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever. Amen." There are souls from every nation and all tribes of peoples and tongues standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They are clothed in white robes and holding palm branches in their hands. They came out of great tribulation but have washed their robes white in the blood of the Lamb. Now they are before the throne of God day and night, serving Him. . . It's a scene of joy bubbling over and constant praise to God.
Then the seventh seal is opened . . . and suddenly all goes silent. For thirty minutes there is no sound of worship, or anything else, in heaven. One half hour of absolute silence.
The seven angels receive seven trumpets. Another angel receives a great deal of incense to add to the prayers of all the saints. The smoke of the incense mixed with the prayers of the saints goes up to God. God hears the prayers of all believers, especially those suffering at the hands of unbelievers. For centuries, believers have prayed, "Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven." David prayed in the imprecatory psalms for God to vindicate His people and serve justice to His enemies. Now these prayers are about to be answered.
The angel threw fire/coals from the altar to the earth, and there were great peals of thunder and flashes of lightning and an earthquake. This represents the judgment of God on the earth. The silence is over, and the seven trumpets begin.
1st trumpet - destruction of 1/3 of the earth
2nd trumpet - destruction of 1/3 of the sea and its creatures
3rd trumpet - destruction of1/3 of the rivers and springs (fresh water)
4th trumpet - destruction of 1/3 of the heavens (sky)
So far, the judgment has been "natural" in that it affects the natural creation of the heavens and earth. But great woe is predicted with the next three trumpets. We'll see the 5th and 6th trumpets tomorrow.
REFLECTION
The incense reminds me of the Law that God established with the temple/tabernacle. There was an altar of incense that the high priest was to tend to every morning and evening. This golden altar was near the ark of the covenant, close to the presence of God (Exodus 30). On the annual Day of Atonement, the high priest would offer sacrifices for his own sin. Then the priest would enter the Holy of Holies into the presence of God. When he entered this area, he was to bring incense along with the blood from the sacrifice and allow its smoke to cover the mercy seat on the ark of the covenant. If the priest failed to bring the burning incense, he would be struck dead when he entered God's presence (Leviticus 16). The burning incense is linked to man's ability to commune with God.
APPLICATION
Here, in Revelation 8, the prayers of believers are mixed with the incense. This golden altar is before the throne, just like the Old Testament golden altar was before the ark of the covenant. The prayers of believers really do ascend to God's presence. God hears our prayers. He is not deaf to His children. Somehow, some of those prayers are involved in the judgment at the end. He is waiting for the time of judgment to complete the answer, but God will carry out what He has promised. The purpose of prayer, then, is to get God's will (not man's) accomplished on earth. Prayer is serious business! And we would be wise to keep the altar of our prayers close to the throne of God where it belongs!
PRAYER
Lord, we don't understand all the things you will do in the end. But we do know that you tell us to pray, and you tell us to pray for your will, your work to be done. May we draw so close to you that our prayers truly reflect your will. May our prayers be a sweet aroma to you. In the name of Jesus, amen.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Revelation 7 - Faith Becomes Sight
by Becky
LINK: Revelation 7
BACKGROUND
The stage is set for final judgment. The sixth seal has been broken and unleashed on the earth. Even mighty rulers hide,"calling to the mountains and rocks, 'Fall on us and hide us from the face of him who is seated on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb, for the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand?'" (Revelation 6:16-17 ESV)
We see who can stand in Chapter 7! Four angels are ready to let loose the winds of destruction when a fifth angel ascends with the "seal of the living God." He calls to the other angels to do no harm to the earth or sea or trees until God's servants are sealed on their foreheads. Those who are sealed are the only ones who will stand.
John hears that 144,000 are sealed, from every tribe. Then a list of some of the tribes of Israel is given, with 12,000 from each tribe. Not every tribe is listed. The tribe of Dan is left off, as is Ephraim. Joseph (from which the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh came) is included. Judah, the tribe that Jesus came from, is listed first. Because of all this, and because of the number 144,000 and the exact numbers of 12,000 from each of the tribes, I believe that this is a symbolic number that represents completeness. (The number 12 often represents completeness in Scripture, as does 10 cubed. 12 x 12 =144; 10 x 10 x 10 = 1000; 144 x 1000 = 144, 000.) ALL believers, through all history, are sealed. Only God knows how many. Not one is left out. (There are quite a few Christians who do not see that number as symbolic - just thought I should let you know that! I am simply explaining as it makes sense to me; I am not the last word on the topic, for sure.)
Then John sees. "After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, 'Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!'" (Revelation 7:9-10 ESV) I think this multitude is those who were sealed.
They are experiencing what they had only hoped for on earth. The salvation they know now is from God and the Lamb, not from their own goodness or wisdom. They have been a church in tribulation - all the tribulations of all God's saints through all the history of the world is surely great - and now they are the church triumphant - giving glory to God. They placed their trust in the shed blood of the Lamb; they wear clean garments, garments of righteousness, made clean through Jesus' death.
REFLECTION
It hit me as I read this that first John heard and then he saw. When I read that I thought of these verses, "So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ" (Romans 10:17 ESV) And "now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." (Hebrews 11:1 ESV) And "for we walk by faith, not by sight." (2 Cor. 5:7 ESV)
We do not see now. Just as John heard of those sealed, and then saw the fulfillment; so it is for us. We who are sealed by our faith in the Lamb do not see yet, but someday we will. Right now we operate on the basis of what we are told, what we hear in God's Word; but someday we will SEE!
This will be true of us (!):
“Therefore they are before the throne of God,
and serve him day and night in his temple;
and he who sits on the throne will shelter them with his presence.
They shall hunger no more, neither thirst anymore;
the sun shall not strike them,
nor any scorching heat.
For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their shepherd,
and he will guide them to springs of living water,
and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.” (Revelation 7:15-17 ESV)
Here's what William Hendriksen says:
"Therefore are they before the throne of God. Only those who have placed their confidence in Christ and His atonement appear before the throne. They worship Him; that is, they render to Him the spontaneous, glad, and thorough devotion of the heart. It is unceasing worship. These redeemed saints in glory, moreover, experience the sweetest, fullest, and most intimate fellowship with God through Christ; they worship Him in His sanctuary, that is in His immediate presence. The One who sits on the throne treats them as His own dear children, for such by grace they are; He spreads His presence like a tent over them. Negatively, their salvation consists in this, that they are delivered from every care and hardship, from every form of trial and persecution; no more hunger, thirst, or heat. Positively, their salvation means this, that they enjoy the most perfect bliss; the Lamb is now their shepherd (cf. Ps. 23; Jn. 10: 11, 14). Thin of it, a Lamb being a shepherd! This Lamb leads His flock to life's springs of water. Water symbolizes eternal life and salvation (Is. 55:1; Jn. 7: 38,39). The springs of water indicate the source of life, for throught the Lamb the redeemed have eternal and uninterrupted fellowship with the Father.
Finally, the sweetest touch of all: 'And God shall wipe away every tear out of their eyes.' Not merely are the tears wiped or even wiped away; they are wiped out of the eyes so that nothing but perfect joy, bliss, glory, sweetest fellowship and most abundant life, remains. And God Himself is the Author of this perfect salvation." (from More than Conquerors, 114)
Read verses 9-17 out loud and worship our God!
PRAYER
Help us to take to heart the words of this wonderful book, dear Lord. You alone deserve our worship. Help us to worship you now and to continue to walk by faith, believing you, even in the midst of trial and for some, persecution. Give us hope. We look forward so much to the time when our faith will be sight and we will join believers from every people group and time and language in worshiping you. In the name of the Lamb who has washed our rags and made them gloriously spotless, Amen.
LINK: Revelation 7
BACKGROUND
The stage is set for final judgment. The sixth seal has been broken and unleashed on the earth. Even mighty rulers hide,"calling to the mountains and rocks, 'Fall on us and hide us from the face of him who is seated on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb, for the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand?'" (Revelation 6:16-17 ESV)
We see who can stand in Chapter 7! Four angels are ready to let loose the winds of destruction when a fifth angel ascends with the "seal of the living God." He calls to the other angels to do no harm to the earth or sea or trees until God's servants are sealed on their foreheads. Those who are sealed are the only ones who will stand.
John hears that 144,000 are sealed, from every tribe. Then a list of some of the tribes of Israel is given, with 12,000 from each tribe. Not every tribe is listed. The tribe of Dan is left off, as is Ephraim. Joseph (from which the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh came) is included. Judah, the tribe that Jesus came from, is listed first. Because of all this, and because of the number 144,000 and the exact numbers of 12,000 from each of the tribes, I believe that this is a symbolic number that represents completeness. (The number 12 often represents completeness in Scripture, as does 10 cubed. 12 x 12 =144; 10 x 10 x 10 = 1000; 144 x 1000 = 144, 000.) ALL believers, through all history, are sealed. Only God knows how many. Not one is left out. (There are quite a few Christians who do not see that number as symbolic - just thought I should let you know that! I am simply explaining as it makes sense to me; I am not the last word on the topic, for sure.)
Then John sees. "After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, 'Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!'" (Revelation 7:9-10 ESV) I think this multitude is those who were sealed.
They are experiencing what they had only hoped for on earth. The salvation they know now is from God and the Lamb, not from their own goodness or wisdom. They have been a church in tribulation - all the tribulations of all God's saints through all the history of the world is surely great - and now they are the church triumphant - giving glory to God. They placed their trust in the shed blood of the Lamb; they wear clean garments, garments of righteousness, made clean through Jesus' death.
REFLECTION
It hit me as I read this that first John heard and then he saw. When I read that I thought of these verses, "So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ" (Romans 10:17 ESV) And "now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." (Hebrews 11:1 ESV) And "for we walk by faith, not by sight." (2 Cor. 5:7 ESV)
We do not see now. Just as John heard of those sealed, and then saw the fulfillment; so it is for us. We who are sealed by our faith in the Lamb do not see yet, but someday we will. Right now we operate on the basis of what we are told, what we hear in God's Word; but someday we will SEE!
This will be true of us (!):
“Therefore they are before the throne of God,
and serve him day and night in his temple;
and he who sits on the throne will shelter them with his presence.
They shall hunger no more, neither thirst anymore;
the sun shall not strike them,
nor any scorching heat.
For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their shepherd,
and he will guide them to springs of living water,
and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.” (Revelation 7:15-17 ESV)
Here's what William Hendriksen says:
"Therefore are they before the throne of God. Only those who have placed their confidence in Christ and His atonement appear before the throne. They worship Him; that is, they render to Him the spontaneous, glad, and thorough devotion of the heart. It is unceasing worship. These redeemed saints in glory, moreover, experience the sweetest, fullest, and most intimate fellowship with God through Christ; they worship Him in His sanctuary, that is in His immediate presence. The One who sits on the throne treats them as His own dear children, for such by grace they are; He spreads His presence like a tent over them. Negatively, their salvation consists in this, that they are delivered from every care and hardship, from every form of trial and persecution; no more hunger, thirst, or heat. Positively, their salvation means this, that they enjoy the most perfect bliss; the Lamb is now their shepherd (cf. Ps. 23; Jn. 10: 11, 14). Thin of it, a Lamb being a shepherd! This Lamb leads His flock to life's springs of water. Water symbolizes eternal life and salvation (Is. 55:1; Jn. 7: 38,39). The springs of water indicate the source of life, for throught the Lamb the redeemed have eternal and uninterrupted fellowship with the Father.
Finally, the sweetest touch of all: 'And God shall wipe away every tear out of their eyes.' Not merely are the tears wiped or even wiped away; they are wiped out of the eyes so that nothing but perfect joy, bliss, glory, sweetest fellowship and most abundant life, remains. And God Himself is the Author of this perfect salvation." (from More than Conquerors, 114)
Read verses 9-17 out loud and worship our God!
PRAYER
Help us to take to heart the words of this wonderful book, dear Lord. You alone deserve our worship. Help us to worship you now and to continue to walk by faith, believing you, even in the midst of trial and for some, persecution. Give us hope. We look forward so much to the time when our faith will be sight and we will join believers from every people group and time and language in worshiping you. In the name of the Lamb who has washed our rags and made them gloriously spotless, Amen.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Rev 2:18-29 - Thyatira
by Katrina
LINK: Revelation 2:18-29
BACKGROUND
THYATIRA - Thyatira was a military town as well as another commercial center in Asia Minor. It was home to many trade guilds, which were usually accompanied by much idolatry and immorality. It was the location of a special temple to Apollo, the "sun god," which may explain why this is the only time in Revelation Jesus is referred to as the "Son of God."
Jezebel - This name is symbolic of one who leads people into idolatry like Jezebel enticed Israel into Baal worship (1 Kings 16-19).
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
Add Thyatira to your chart of the seven churches. How is Jesus described? What are they commended for? What did Jesus have against them? What are they exhorted to do? What promise are they given?
PRAYER
Lord, may we increase our works of faith, love, and patience toward others. Let us not confuse love with tolerance of sin. And may we hold fast to our faith until Jesus returns. Amen.
LINK: Revelation 2:18-29
BACKGROUND
THYATIRA - Thyatira was a military town as well as another commercial center in Asia Minor. It was home to many trade guilds, which were usually accompanied by much idolatry and immorality. It was the location of a special temple to Apollo, the "sun god," which may explain why this is the only time in Revelation Jesus is referred to as the "Son of God."
Jezebel - This name is symbolic of one who leads people into idolatry like Jezebel enticed Israel into Baal worship (1 Kings 16-19).
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
Add Thyatira to your chart of the seven churches. How is Jesus described? What are they commended for? What did Jesus have against them? What are they exhorted to do? What promise are they given?
PRAYER
Lord, may we increase our works of faith, love, and patience toward others. Let us not confuse love with tolerance of sin. And may we hold fast to our faith until Jesus returns. Amen.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Rev 2:1-17 - Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum
by Katrina
LINK: Revelation 2:1-17
BACKGROUND
Chapters two and three contain the letters to the seven churches: Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. These were seven cities where Christianity was established at the time John wrote. The letters are messages from Jesus Himself. Only Jesus could know the condition of the hearts of the people, and this is primarily what He addressed in these letters. Most of the letters contain a commendation praising the people for their faith and/or deeds. And most of the letters also contain a charge against the church. They also contain an exhortation and a promise. It is helpful while studying these letters to make a chart identifying the praise, rebuke, exhortation, and promise to each church.
Although these letters were written to specific churches, they are meant to be taken to heart by all churches and all believers individually. The letters close with "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." All local assemblies will do well to listen to what God says to the churches here in Revelation. And, remember, that all churches are made up of individuals, and whatever the people do is what the church does.
EPHESUS
The city of Ephesus probably first heard the gospel through Priscilla and Aquila when Paul stopped there on his second missionary journey. On Paul's third journey, he stayed in Ephesus for about three years, making it his home base while he took the gospel all over Asia Minor. He left Timothy to pastor the church as well. Later, John lived there for a time before his exile.
The city of Ephesus was a major business, political, and religious center. It was the home of the temple of Artemis (Diana). It was located on a major trade route and ranked with Alexandria and Antioch as a major business city. Under Caesar Augustus, Ephesus became the capital of the Roman province called Asia (now western Turkey).
The early church fathers spoke of the Nicolaitans as "lovers of pleasure" and "given to calumnious speech." Ignatius defined a Nicolaitan as "a corrupter of his own flesh," indicating immorality.
SMYRNA
Smyrna (today known as Izmir) was a seaport city about 35 miles north of Ephesus. It was a center of the imperial cult of Rome, and Christians were greatly persecuted for not following the religion of Rome.
PERGAMUM
The city of Pergamum was about 45 miles north of Smyrna. It had one of the finest libraries of ancient times and was the place where parchment was first used. At one time, it had been the capital of the Roman province of Asia. The first temple dedicated to Caesar was in this city, and the city very actively promoted the cult of Roman religion. In this city was also a temple dedicated to Aesculapius, the god of healing. The serpent entwined on a staff was its symbol and is still used as a medical symbol today.
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
Find the praise, rebuke, exhortation, and promise in each letter and consider how they might apply to your own life as a believer.
Begin a chart with the following sections for each church: description of Jesus, praise for the church, rebuke, exhortation, promise. Fill it in as we go through the seven letters over the next few days.
PRAYER
Lord, give us ears to hear what you are saying to us about our lives in you. May we be sensitive to your Holy Spirit and have the humility to repent where we have sinned, correct our path where we have strayed, and seek to follow your teachings in all areas of our lives. Amen.
LINK: Revelation 2:1-17
BACKGROUND
Chapters two and three contain the letters to the seven churches: Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. These were seven cities where Christianity was established at the time John wrote. The letters are messages from Jesus Himself. Only Jesus could know the condition of the hearts of the people, and this is primarily what He addressed in these letters. Most of the letters contain a commendation praising the people for their faith and/or deeds. And most of the letters also contain a charge against the church. They also contain an exhortation and a promise. It is helpful while studying these letters to make a chart identifying the praise, rebuke, exhortation, and promise to each church.
Although these letters were written to specific churches, they are meant to be taken to heart by all churches and all believers individually. The letters close with "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." All local assemblies will do well to listen to what God says to the churches here in Revelation. And, remember, that all churches are made up of individuals, and whatever the people do is what the church does.
EPHESUS
The city of Ephesus probably first heard the gospel through Priscilla and Aquila when Paul stopped there on his second missionary journey. On Paul's third journey, he stayed in Ephesus for about three years, making it his home base while he took the gospel all over Asia Minor. He left Timothy to pastor the church as well. Later, John lived there for a time before his exile.
The city of Ephesus was a major business, political, and religious center. It was the home of the temple of Artemis (Diana). It was located on a major trade route and ranked with Alexandria and Antioch as a major business city. Under Caesar Augustus, Ephesus became the capital of the Roman province called Asia (now western Turkey).
The early church fathers spoke of the Nicolaitans as "lovers of pleasure" and "given to calumnious speech." Ignatius defined a Nicolaitan as "a corrupter of his own flesh," indicating immorality.
SMYRNA
Smyrna (today known as Izmir) was a seaport city about 35 miles north of Ephesus. It was a center of the imperial cult of Rome, and Christians were greatly persecuted for not following the religion of Rome.
PERGAMUM
The city of Pergamum was about 45 miles north of Smyrna. It had one of the finest libraries of ancient times and was the place where parchment was first used. At one time, it had been the capital of the Roman province of Asia. The first temple dedicated to Caesar was in this city, and the city very actively promoted the cult of Roman religion. In this city was also a temple dedicated to Aesculapius, the god of healing. The serpent entwined on a staff was its symbol and is still used as a medical symbol today.
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
Find the praise, rebuke, exhortation, and promise in each letter and consider how they might apply to your own life as a believer.
Begin a chart with the following sections for each church: description of Jesus, praise for the church, rebuke, exhortation, promise. Fill it in as we go through the seven letters over the next few days.
PRAYER
Lord, give us ears to hear what you are saying to us about our lives in you. May we be sensitive to your Holy Spirit and have the humility to repent where we have sinned, correct our path where we have strayed, and seek to follow your teachings in all areas of our lives. Amen.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Revelation 1 - The "Man" in the Midst of the Lampstands
by Becky
LINK: Revelation 1
BACKGROUND
Let me tell you (oh no, Carol has already done that!) writing about Revelation is quite intimidating. I guess the best way to do it is simply to jump into this blog post and begin writing!
I think the best approach to Revelation is to read it to get the big picture. Ask what the book has to say about God, about the Lord Jesus Christ, about history. Don't begin by trying to analyze the symbols or details.
Revelation was written to encourage believers. The first century church was undergoing tremendous persecution. John wrote down his vision to reveal the reality that God is in charge. Good does triumph over evil! This is a book of hope.
There are seven divisions, or visions, in this book. Almost everything I've read agrees about that!
It is Mr.Hendriksen's view that Revelation is an organic unity, with an easy transition from vision to vision. Each of the visions spans the era from Jesus' first coming to the time He returns again in judgment. So the message is for us if we are part of the universal Church! We live in that era.
REFLECTION
There is much to reflect on in this first chapter. This is a revelation of Jesus Christ to John, so that John could communicate it to the believers alive at that time and to all of us who have come since then. It says we are blessed if we read the book and blessed if we hear it - especially if we take to heart what it says. So get ready to receive a blessing!
Try to lay aside any preconceptions you have of the book. Read this chapter and worship the LORD.
Look at what is said about Jesus:
We meet someone "like the son of man" in the middle of seven lampstands. This is the Lord Jesus in power! Look at the similes used to describe Him:
In short, He is frightening. John fell down in fear as if dead. I think we will, too, when we see Him in His power and glory. But the man reassures him, "Don't be afraid."
The man himself tells John what some of the objects represent: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches. (I don't begin to understand that, but isn't that cool?) The seven lampstands are the seven churches. (How fitting is that? We, the church, are the bearers of God's light.)
APPLICATION
Read this chapter again and then bow low and worship our Lord Jesus.
PRAYER
Thank-you for this book, Lord. Help us to read it and heed it. Help us to worship you and trust you more through what we read. You are in charge. You are directing history to the end you have in mind. We praise you that you love us and that you have freed us from our sin through your death on the cross, through your shed blood. We are your servants. Give us eyes to hear and ears to hear.
LINK: Revelation 1
BACKGROUND
Let me tell you (oh no, Carol has already done that!) writing about Revelation is quite intimidating. I guess the best way to do it is simply to jump into this blog post and begin writing!
I think the best approach to Revelation is to read it to get the big picture. Ask what the book has to say about God, about the Lord Jesus Christ, about history. Don't begin by trying to analyze the symbols or details.
Revelation was written to encourage believers. The first century church was undergoing tremendous persecution. John wrote down his vision to reveal the reality that God is in charge. Good does triumph over evil! This is a book of hope.
There are seven divisions, or visions, in this book. Almost everything I've read agrees about that!
- Christ in the midst of the seven golden lampstands (1-3)
- The book with seven seals (4-7)
- The seven trumpets of judgment (8-11)
- The woman and the Man-child persecuted by the dragon and his helpers (the beast and the harlot) (12-14)
- The seven bowls of wrath (15,16)
- The fall of the great harlot and of the beasts(17-19)
- The judgment upon the dragon (Satan) followed by the new heaven and earth, new Jerusalem (20-22)
It is Mr.Hendriksen's view that Revelation is an organic unity, with an easy transition from vision to vision. Each of the visions spans the era from Jesus' first coming to the time He returns again in judgment. So the message is for us if we are part of the universal Church! We live in that era.
REFLECTION
There is much to reflect on in this first chapter. This is a revelation of Jesus Christ to John, so that John could communicate it to the believers alive at that time and to all of us who have come since then. It says we are blessed if we read the book and blessed if we hear it - especially if we take to heart what it says. So get ready to receive a blessing!
Try to lay aside any preconceptions you have of the book. Read this chapter and worship the LORD.
Look at what is said about Jesus:
- He loves us.
- He's freed us from our sins by His blood.
- He has made us a kingdom and priests to serve God.
- He is coming back in the clouds and everyone will recognize him.
- He is the Alpha and Omega. (The first and last letters of the Greek alphabet)
- He is the one who is , who was, and who is to come. (The I Am.)
- He is the Almighty.
- He is the First and the Last
- He is the Living One.
- He was dead and now he's alive for ever and ever!
- He holds the keys of death and Hades.
We meet someone "like the son of man" in the middle of seven lampstands. This is the Lord Jesus in power! Look at the similes used to describe Him:
- His head and hair - like wool, as white as snow
- His eyes - like blazing fire
- His feet - like bronze glowing in a furnace
- His voice - like the sound of rushing waters (Have you ever heard a huge waterfall or waves?)
- His face - like the brilliant sun (Can you look at the sun?)
In short, He is frightening. John fell down in fear as if dead. I think we will, too, when we see Him in His power and glory. But the man reassures him, "Don't be afraid."
The man himself tells John what some of the objects represent: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches. (I don't begin to understand that, but isn't that cool?) The seven lampstands are the seven churches. (How fitting is that? We, the church, are the bearers of God's light.)
APPLICATION
Read this chapter again and then bow low and worship our Lord Jesus.
PRAYER
Thank-you for this book, Lord. Help us to read it and heed it. Help us to worship you and trust you more through what we read. You are in charge. You are directing history to the end you have in mind. We praise you that you love us and that you have freed us from our sin through your death on the cross, through your shed blood. We are your servants. Give us eyes to hear and ears to hear.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
3 John - Walking in Truth
by Katrina
LINK: 3 John
BACKGROUND
In this brief letter, John wrote to his friend Gaius, a leader in the church. In this letter, John mentioned three men: Gaius, Diotrephes, and Demetrius. This chapter lends itself to three very short character studies.
REFLECTION
Read this chapter very carefully. What character traits do you see in each of the three men John mentioned? What can you learn about their behavior? What about their attitudes? Their mindset?
APPLICATION
Which man would you like to strive to be more like? What can you do to grow in the good traits of this chapter? Which traits should you work on avoiding in your own life?
PRAYER
Lord, teach us to not only know the truth, but also to walk in the truth. May our lives overflow with the love that demonstrates that we belong to Jesus. And may we live as fellow workers worthy of being called by Your name. Amen.
LINK: 3 John
BACKGROUND
In this brief letter, John wrote to his friend Gaius, a leader in the church. In this letter, John mentioned three men: Gaius, Diotrephes, and Demetrius. This chapter lends itself to three very short character studies.
REFLECTION
Read this chapter very carefully. What character traits do you see in each of the three men John mentioned? What can you learn about their behavior? What about their attitudes? Their mindset?
APPLICATION
Which man would you like to strive to be more like? What can you do to grow in the good traits of this chapter? Which traits should you work on avoiding in your own life?
PRAYER
Lord, teach us to not only know the truth, but also to walk in the truth. May our lives overflow with the love that demonstrates that we belong to Jesus. And may we live as fellow workers worthy of being called by Your name. Amen.
Monday, October 11, 2010
2 John - Walk in Truth
by Katrina
LINK: 2 John
BACKGROUND
The apostle John wrote this letter around the year 90. He addressed it to "the chosen lady," which may be an individual or may be a church. If it's a church then the greeting from "your chosen sister" would refer to the church where John was at the time of writing (probably Ephesus).
John's primary purpose is to warn his readers of false teachings and to exhort them to remain firm in the truth. The teachings of Christ are truth, and anyone who does not accept them does not belong to Him. They need to guard against anyone who brings any teaching that does not align with Christ.
One specific false teaching at that time was that of gnosticism. Gnostics taught that Jesus was not God in the flesh. (I posted more on the teachings of gnosticism here.) John warned against this particular teaching and those who taught it (verse 7).
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
The best way to avoid the trap of false teaching is to really know the truth and to live the truth. It's not an easy task; it requires reading, thought, discussion, and study. It's much easier to be complacent, but it's also very dangerous to be complacent. Our world is full of false teaching, and much of it is packaged in a way that sounds biblical.
The key is to examine the core of any "new" teaching. When it's boiled down, what does it say about Jesus? It doesn't have a leg to stand on unless it teaches that Jesus came as God in the flesh, born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, died on the cross as payment for man's sin, was buried, raised from the dead, ascended into heaven, and will one day return to claim those who belong to Him for eternity. In the meantime, He left us the command to love God with all our being and to love others. Those who belong to Him will keep His commandments.
PRAYER
Father, may we be more aware of the falsehoods of the many various teachings of our day. Teach us through Your word and Your Holy Spirit to know the truth and to recognize what does not align with the truth. May we grow in our understanding of Your word and seek to walk in truth, keeping Your commands. In the name of Jesus, amen.
LINK: 2 John
BACKGROUND
The apostle John wrote this letter around the year 90. He addressed it to "the chosen lady," which may be an individual or may be a church. If it's a church then the greeting from "your chosen sister" would refer to the church where John was at the time of writing (probably Ephesus).
John's primary purpose is to warn his readers of false teachings and to exhort them to remain firm in the truth. The teachings of Christ are truth, and anyone who does not accept them does not belong to Him. They need to guard against anyone who brings any teaching that does not align with Christ.
One specific false teaching at that time was that of gnosticism. Gnostics taught that Jesus was not God in the flesh. (I posted more on the teachings of gnosticism here.) John warned against this particular teaching and those who taught it (verse 7).
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
The best way to avoid the trap of false teaching is to really know the truth and to live the truth. It's not an easy task; it requires reading, thought, discussion, and study. It's much easier to be complacent, but it's also very dangerous to be complacent. Our world is full of false teaching, and much of it is packaged in a way that sounds biblical.
The key is to examine the core of any "new" teaching. When it's boiled down, what does it say about Jesus? It doesn't have a leg to stand on unless it teaches that Jesus came as God in the flesh, born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, died on the cross as payment for man's sin, was buried, raised from the dead, ascended into heaven, and will one day return to claim those who belong to Him for eternity. In the meantime, He left us the command to love God with all our being and to love others. Those who belong to Him will keep His commandments.
PRAYER
Father, may we be more aware of the falsehoods of the many various teachings of our day. Teach us through Your word and Your Holy Spirit to know the truth and to recognize what does not align with the truth. May we grow in our understanding of Your word and seek to walk in truth, keeping Your commands. In the name of Jesus, amen.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
1 John 5 - Jesus Is the True God
by Becky
LINK: 1 John 5
BACKGROUND
When I think of this letter of John certain shorthand phrases pop into my mind. This letter is more devotional than Paul's and less linear. John uses simple language here, and yet writes with consistency and insight. So over and over the same themes are repeated: we love Him because He first loved us, belief in God=love for Him, abiding in Him, obedience to Him, loving other believers, Jesus=God=life. Love and obedience go hand in hand.
Chapter 5 continues many of the themes established earlier in the book. In fact the main theme of the book is reiterated here at the end: " And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true; and we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life." (ESV)
If ever you wondered if the Bible says that Jesus is God, wonder no more! It says it right here. Jesus is the true God and eternal life.
Earlier in the chapter, John cites the evidence that Jesus is God (vv 6-12). The Holy Spirit (like a dove from heaven), Jesus' baptism (water)which includes God's voice from heaven (Mark 1: 10-11), and Jesus' death (blood). We ourselves have the evidence in us! We have evidence as Christians of Jesus being God/Man! Our faith is based on evidence; it's not superstition.
REFLECTION
If we know that Jesus is God that will change what we focus on, the way we live. If He is true, then the way He tells us to live is true. We will pray, wanting his will. His will is revealed in the Word. It's not some mystery, but is stated clearly. What we pray for should be in accordance with His revealed will, what He tells us in the Bible.
Our prayers matter. We are here to pray for each other, especially when we see our brothers and sisters sinning. God is the judge, not us.
APPLICATION
The chapter closes with this sentence, "Little children, keep yourselves from idols." Most of us don't bow down to little statues, but that doesn't mean we don't have idols.
Near the end of a sermon that I found online, Kenny Stokes laid out thirteen questions, adapted from an old Puritan sermon, to help us identify the idols of our hearts. I think they reveal a lot.
PRAYER
We thank you, Lord for clearly stating that Jesus is the true God. Help us to follow your truth. Give us hearts of love to pray for each other. You alone are worthy of worship. Open our eyes to see if we worship something other than you.
LINK: 1 John 5
BACKGROUND
When I think of this letter of John certain shorthand phrases pop into my mind. This letter is more devotional than Paul's and less linear. John uses simple language here, and yet writes with consistency and insight. So over and over the same themes are repeated: we love Him because He first loved us, belief in God=love for Him, abiding in Him, obedience to Him, loving other believers, Jesus=God=life. Love and obedience go hand in hand.
Chapter 5 continues many of the themes established earlier in the book. In fact the main theme of the book is reiterated here at the end: " And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true; and we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life." (ESV)
If ever you wondered if the Bible says that Jesus is God, wonder no more! It says it right here. Jesus is the true God and eternal life.
Earlier in the chapter, John cites the evidence that Jesus is God (vv 6-12). The Holy Spirit (like a dove from heaven), Jesus' baptism (water)which includes God's voice from heaven (Mark 1: 10-11), and Jesus' death (blood). We ourselves have the evidence in us! We have evidence as Christians of Jesus being God/Man! Our faith is based on evidence; it's not superstition.
REFLECTION
If we know that Jesus is God that will change what we focus on, the way we live. If He is true, then the way He tells us to live is true. We will pray, wanting his will. His will is revealed in the Word. It's not some mystery, but is stated clearly. What we pray for should be in accordance with His revealed will, what He tells us in the Bible.
Our prayers matter. We are here to pray for each other, especially when we see our brothers and sisters sinning. God is the judge, not us.
APPLICATION
The chapter closes with this sentence, "Little children, keep yourselves from idols." Most of us don't bow down to little statues, but that doesn't mean we don't have idols.
Near the end of a sermon that I found online, Kenny Stokes laid out thirteen questions, adapted from an old Puritan sermon, to help us identify the idols of our hearts. I think they reveal a lot.
- What do you most highly value?
- What do you think about by default?
- What is your highest goal?
- To what or whom are you most committed?
- Who or what do you love the most?
- Who or what do you trust or depend upon the most?
- Who or what do you fear the most?
- Who or what do you hope in and hope for most?
- Who or what do you desire the most? Or, what desire makes you most angry or makes you despair when it is not satisfied?
- Who or what do you most delight in or hold as your greatest joy and treasure?
- Who or what captures your greatest zeal?
- To whom or for what are you most thankful?
- For whom or what great purpose do you work?
PRAYER
We thank you, Lord for clearly stating that Jesus is the true God. Help us to follow your truth. Give us hearts of love to pray for each other. You alone are worthy of worship. Open our eyes to see if we worship something other than you.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
1 John 1 - Walk in Light
by Katrina
LINK: 1 John 1
BACKGROUND
The author of these three epistles is the same John who wrote the gospel account by his name. The same John also wrote the book of Revelation which we will soon be reading.
One reason John wrote this letter was to counter the false teaching of gnosticism that was spreading in the early church. This was a teaching that the immaterial was superior to the material. Because of this, Gnostics denied the incarnation of Jesus, because God could not unite with a material body. Along the same lines, they also denied the resurrection of the body. They taught that knowledge was superior to virtue and therefore generally had low moral standards. The Gnostic explanation for evil in the world is that God is not the only creator, but another creator made evil. They taught that only a select few were capable of understanding Scripture.
Throughout this letter, John clearly expressed his affection for the recipients as well as his concern for their spiritual welfare.
John begins with the "realness" of Jesus and the gospel message that had been proclaimed. Next he contrasts the light of God with the darkness of the world. And then, he urges the readers to stay in the light and be continually cleansed from sin through confession.
REFLECTION
If we walk in the light with Jesus, we have fellowship with one another.
If we confess our sins, we are cleansed from them.
On the other hand, if we deny that we sin, we accuse God of lying.
I have a black t-shirt with the white words, "I am walking in the light" printed on the front, and "How about you?" on the back from 1 John 1:7. Only I can't read the shirt because it's written in Khmer (Cambodian language). It was the theme of a youth camp in Cambodia that a team from our church helped with a few years ago. We encouraged the young believers there to walk in the light while at camp and to continue to walk in the light when they returned to their villages. Some of these young people are the only believers in their village, surrounded by animism and Buddhism. They shine as bright lights in a very dark world.
APPLICATION
What does it mean to walk in the light? It means to live a life of obedience to the Lord. In doing so, we stand out as different from the dark world around us that lives in disobedience to God. It doesn't mean we will be sinless. But it does mean we will notice our sin and confess it before God. If we try to hide our sin, we participate in darkness. Jesus Himself is in the light; let's join Him there and avoid sinful ways.
Are you walking in the light?
PRAYER
Lord, we want to walk with Jesus in His light and shine like lights in this dark world. May we be honest about our sinfulness and confess our sin. You promise to cleanse us when we do. May our lives shine the light of Jesus to those around us. Amen.
LINK: 1 John 1
BACKGROUND
The author of these three epistles is the same John who wrote the gospel account by his name. The same John also wrote the book of Revelation which we will soon be reading.
One reason John wrote this letter was to counter the false teaching of gnosticism that was spreading in the early church. This was a teaching that the immaterial was superior to the material. Because of this, Gnostics denied the incarnation of Jesus, because God could not unite with a material body. Along the same lines, they also denied the resurrection of the body. They taught that knowledge was superior to virtue and therefore generally had low moral standards. The Gnostic explanation for evil in the world is that God is not the only creator, but another creator made evil. They taught that only a select few were capable of understanding Scripture.
Throughout this letter, John clearly expressed his affection for the recipients as well as his concern for their spiritual welfare.
John begins with the "realness" of Jesus and the gospel message that had been proclaimed. Next he contrasts the light of God with the darkness of the world. And then, he urges the readers to stay in the light and be continually cleansed from sin through confession.
REFLECTION
If we walk in the light with Jesus, we have fellowship with one another.
If we confess our sins, we are cleansed from them.
On the other hand, if we deny that we sin, we accuse God of lying.
I have a black t-shirt with the white words, "I am walking in the light" printed on the front, and "How about you?" on the back from 1 John 1:7. Only I can't read the shirt because it's written in Khmer (Cambodian language). It was the theme of a youth camp in Cambodia that a team from our church helped with a few years ago. We encouraged the young believers there to walk in the light while at camp and to continue to walk in the light when they returned to their villages. Some of these young people are the only believers in their village, surrounded by animism and Buddhism. They shine as bright lights in a very dark world.
APPLICATION
What does it mean to walk in the light? It means to live a life of obedience to the Lord. In doing so, we stand out as different from the dark world around us that lives in disobedience to God. It doesn't mean we will be sinless. But it does mean we will notice our sin and confess it before God. If we try to hide our sin, we participate in darkness. Jesus Himself is in the light; let's join Him there and avoid sinful ways.
Are you walking in the light?
PRAYER
Lord, we want to walk with Jesus in His light and shine like lights in this dark world. May we be honest about our sinfulness and confess our sin. You promise to cleanse us when we do. May our lives shine the light of Jesus to those around us. Amen.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
2 Peter 1 - Diligent Growth
by Katrina
LINK: 2 Peter 1
About 2-3 years after writing his first letter, Peter wrote this second letter encouraging the believers.
BACKGROUND
In the first half of this chapter, Peter exhorts believers to be diligent in their growth. God has provided salvation, but the believer has a responsibility to practice godliness.
The second half of the chapter is a reminder of the validity of the gospel message they (we) received as well as the validity of all scripture available up to that point.
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
So what are these steps of growth Peter talks about?
faith = > moral excellence => knowledge => self-control => perseverance => godliness => brotherly kindness => love
None of these is a one-time activity or accomplishment. They aren't things that we must conquer sequentially. Faith is the starting point. While keeping the faith, we add moral excellence to our lives. While keeping faith and moral excellence, we add knowledge. We continue in faith, moral excellence, and knowledge and add self-control. And so on. These are things we can come back to on a daily basis. We should occasionally evaluate ourselves on our progress in all of these areas of life. This is a very tall order, and will take an entire lifetime of work. No one will reach perfection in this life, but everyone can be growing throughout this life.
And what is the result of this kind of growth? Peter says that if we have these qualities and they are increasing in our lives, then we are neither useless nor unfruitful. In other words, God will use us! We will bear fruit for Him. How's that for exciting!!!
On the other hand, if we lack these qualities, we are blind or short-sighted. We won't see God's work. We won't reap the benefit of having been purified from our sins, because we'll still be living in those sins.
I think it is definitely worth all the effort it takes to grow in order to be useful to God and produce fruit for Him!!
PRAYER
Lord, help us to be diligent in our growth, seeking to have more faith, moral excellence, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love in our lives. Thus may we be used by You and produce fruit for You until Jesus returns. Amen.
LINK: 2 Peter 1
About 2-3 years after writing his first letter, Peter wrote this second letter encouraging the believers.
BACKGROUND
In the first half of this chapter, Peter exhorts believers to be diligent in their growth. God has provided salvation, but the believer has a responsibility to practice godliness.
The second half of the chapter is a reminder of the validity of the gospel message they (we) received as well as the validity of all scripture available up to that point.
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
So what are these steps of growth Peter talks about?
faith = > moral excellence => knowledge => self-control => perseverance => godliness => brotherly kindness => love
None of these is a one-time activity or accomplishment. They aren't things that we must conquer sequentially. Faith is the starting point. While keeping the faith, we add moral excellence to our lives. While keeping faith and moral excellence, we add knowledge. We continue in faith, moral excellence, and knowledge and add self-control. And so on. These are things we can come back to on a daily basis. We should occasionally evaluate ourselves on our progress in all of these areas of life. This is a very tall order, and will take an entire lifetime of work. No one will reach perfection in this life, but everyone can be growing throughout this life.
And what is the result of this kind of growth? Peter says that if we have these qualities and they are increasing in our lives, then we are neither useless nor unfruitful. In other words, God will use us! We will bear fruit for Him. How's that for exciting!!!
On the other hand, if we lack these qualities, we are blind or short-sighted. We won't see God's work. We won't reap the benefit of having been purified from our sins, because we'll still be living in those sins.
I think it is definitely worth all the effort it takes to grow in order to be useful to God and produce fruit for Him!!
PRAYER
Lord, help us to be diligent in our growth, seeking to have more faith, moral excellence, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love in our lives. Thus may we be used by You and produce fruit for You until Jesus returns. Amen.
Monday, September 27, 2010
1 Peter 5 - Final exhortations
by Katrina
LINK: 1 Peter 5
BACKGROUND
Peter wraps up his letter with an exhortation for the leaders of the church to shepherd the flock of God well and for the flock to humbly submit to their leadership. Then he closes with a few last general instructions to all, reminding them that any suffering is only temporary while their salvation is eternal, and sends greetings to them.
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
Do I have a submissive attitude toward the leaders of the church?
Do I clothe myself with humility in my attitude toward others?
Do I turn my concerns over to God, or do I waste my energy worrying about them?
Am I alert to the attacks of the devil? And do I resist him?
Am I building my faith, investing time and energy into it, so I can stand firm against opposition?
PRAYER
Lord, you say you will perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish me. May you continue to do your work in me, amen.
LINK: 1 Peter 5
BACKGROUND
Peter wraps up his letter with an exhortation for the leaders of the church to shepherd the flock of God well and for the flock to humbly submit to their leadership. Then he closes with a few last general instructions to all, reminding them that any suffering is only temporary while their salvation is eternal, and sends greetings to them.
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
Do I have a submissive attitude toward the leaders of the church?
Do I clothe myself with humility in my attitude toward others?
Do I turn my concerns over to God, or do I waste my energy worrying about them?
Am I alert to the attacks of the devil? And do I resist him?
Am I building my faith, investing time and energy into it, so I can stand firm against opposition?
PRAYER
Lord, you say you will perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish me. May you continue to do your work in me, amen.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
1 Peter 4 - Attitude Matters
by Becky
LINK: 1 Peter 4
BACKGROUND
Continuing the theme at the end of 1 Peter 3, this chapter gives instructions to Christians, using Jesus as an example, on how to live in a world that is often hostile.
REFLECTION
The Lord Jesus came and lived and died and rose again for us. This has practical bearing on me (and you, if you have trusted in Him). He died not only a physical death, but He died to His own human desires and will. Instead of living the way those around Him lived, He lived for the will of the Father. Those of us who have trusted in His death and resurrection for wholeness, for forgiveness, for life. are to "arm ourselves with the same way of thinking"(v 1) - that we are done living for our own desires and passions, and that we now have a new passion - to live for God. Instead of living for myself, I live "by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. ... (1 Peter 4:11 ESV)
Having this mindset changes the way we view life, the way we live life.
Matthew Henry put it this way: " ... True Christians make the will of God, not their own lust or desires, the rule of their lives and actions. And true conversion makes a marvelous change in the heart and life. It alters the mind, judgment, affections, and conversation."
Whatever we do, we are to have the attitude of Jesus, that we live and exist for God's glory, not our own. That's how we can offer hospitality without grumbling and love others even when they sin against us. Our actions for others, our lives in this world are motivated by a desire to live for God's pleasure. As He forgave us, we forgive others. As He loves us, so we are to love others. He gave us our gifts for His glory, not our own.
Living in that mindset will help us when we do suffer for doing right, when we face trials because we follow Jesus. We shouldn't be surprised at suffering! Jesus suffered, and we are His. The end of the chapter points out, though, that there is a difference between suffering for doing what is right and suffering for doing what is wrong. This chapter speaks about our attitude when we suffer while doing what pleases the LORD, not when we suffer for our own wrongdoing.
"Therefore let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good." (1 Peter 4:19 ESV)
APPLICATION
What is my reason for doing good? Is it so that I will look good and be liked? Or is it because I love God and want to give Him pleasure?
When I suffer, when trials come and life gets tough, do I pout because I'm not getting my way? Do I blame God and quit living for Him? Do I give up doing what is good or do I trust myself to my faithful Creator and keep on keeping on - continue trying to please Him?
These are the questions I'm asking myself after reading this passage. What are you asking yourself? Is this Word of God affecting how we live?
PRAYER
May you be glorified, Lord, as we live in and through Jesus. Help us to live for your pleasure, not our own. Please strengthen us to continue to do keep doing what is good even as we entrust ourselves to you, our faithful Creator.
LINK: 1 Peter 4
BACKGROUND
Continuing the theme at the end of 1 Peter 3, this chapter gives instructions to Christians, using Jesus as an example, on how to live in a world that is often hostile.
REFLECTION
The Lord Jesus came and lived and died and rose again for us. This has practical bearing on me (and you, if you have trusted in Him). He died not only a physical death, but He died to His own human desires and will. Instead of living the way those around Him lived, He lived for the will of the Father. Those of us who have trusted in His death and resurrection for wholeness, for forgiveness, for life. are to "arm ourselves with the same way of thinking"(v 1) - that we are done living for our own desires and passions, and that we now have a new passion - to live for God. Instead of living for myself, I live "by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. ... (1 Peter 4:11 ESV)
Having this mindset changes the way we view life, the way we live life.
Matthew Henry put it this way: " ... True Christians make the will of God, not their own lust or desires, the rule of their lives and actions. And true conversion makes a marvelous change in the heart and life. It alters the mind, judgment, affections, and conversation."
Whatever we do, we are to have the attitude of Jesus, that we live and exist for God's glory, not our own. That's how we can offer hospitality without grumbling and love others even when they sin against us. Our actions for others, our lives in this world are motivated by a desire to live for God's pleasure. As He forgave us, we forgive others. As He loves us, so we are to love others. He gave us our gifts for His glory, not our own.
Living in that mindset will help us when we do suffer for doing right, when we face trials because we follow Jesus. We shouldn't be surprised at suffering! Jesus suffered, and we are His. The end of the chapter points out, though, that there is a difference between suffering for doing what is right and suffering for doing what is wrong. This chapter speaks about our attitude when we suffer while doing what pleases the LORD, not when we suffer for our own wrongdoing.
"Therefore let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good." (1 Peter 4:19 ESV)
APPLICATION
What is my reason for doing good? Is it so that I will look good and be liked? Or is it because I love God and want to give Him pleasure?
When I suffer, when trials come and life gets tough, do I pout because I'm not getting my way? Do I blame God and quit living for Him? Do I give up doing what is good or do I trust myself to my faithful Creator and keep on keeping on - continue trying to please Him?
These are the questions I'm asking myself after reading this passage. What are you asking yourself? Is this Word of God affecting how we live?
PRAYER
May you be glorified, Lord, as we live in and through Jesus. Help us to live for your pleasure, not our own. Please strengthen us to continue to do keep doing what is good even as we entrust ourselves to you, our faithful Creator.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
1 Peter 1 - A Great Salvation Outweighs Persecution
by Katrina
LINK: 1 Peter 1
BACKGROUND
Peter wrote this epistle around A.D. 63 from Rome to Gentile believers scattered around Asia. At that time in the Roman Empire, Christians lived with suffering and trials because of their faith. Peter wrote this letter before the Empire-wide persecution broke out under Nero in A.D. 64, so he isn't referring to the persecution brought about by the ban on Christianity. Nevertheless, believers were harassed, slandered, accused of starting riots, and ostracized by their pagan neighbors.
REFLECTION
This first chapter is a call to holy living among the pagans and the persecution of the surrounding culture. Peter reminds his readers of the value of their salvation and contrasts it with the suffering they endure. The value of salvation greatly overshadows the expense of suffering for their faith.
Peter sets before them the example of the prophets. Those men understood that the salvation God spoke of through them would not come about during their lifetimes. Yet they believed God and obeyed Him, trusting Him to do as He promised in His own time.
Likewise, Peter's readers (as well as readers today) had received salvation, but they still awaited the complete salvation that will come when Christ returns. So, Peter encouraged them (and us) to be obedient to God in all behavior.
APPLICATION
Carefully read this chapter and make a list of all the information about our salvation. I'll help you get started.
PRAYER
Father, as we see the greatness of the salvation that You have given us freely, we are amazed! Your provision of salvation is more valuable than anything else we can even imagine. It far outweighs whatever sufferings or persecution we may encounter because of our faith in You. Help us to remember that when we face persecution. And may we grow in our understanding of the greatness of our salvation in Jesus. Amen.
LINK: 1 Peter 1
BACKGROUND
Peter wrote this epistle around A.D. 63 from Rome to Gentile believers scattered around Asia. At that time in the Roman Empire, Christians lived with suffering and trials because of their faith. Peter wrote this letter before the Empire-wide persecution broke out under Nero in A.D. 64, so he isn't referring to the persecution brought about by the ban on Christianity. Nevertheless, believers were harassed, slandered, accused of starting riots, and ostracized by their pagan neighbors.
REFLECTION
This first chapter is a call to holy living among the pagans and the persecution of the surrounding culture. Peter reminds his readers of the value of their salvation and contrasts it with the suffering they endure. The value of salvation greatly overshadows the expense of suffering for their faith.
Peter sets before them the example of the prophets. Those men understood that the salvation God spoke of through them would not come about during their lifetimes. Yet they believed God and obeyed Him, trusting Him to do as He promised in His own time.
Likewise, Peter's readers (as well as readers today) had received salvation, but they still awaited the complete salvation that will come when Christ returns. So, Peter encouraged them (and us) to be obedient to God in all behavior.
APPLICATION
Carefully read this chapter and make a list of all the information about our salvation. I'll help you get started.
- I am chosen by God for salvation (vs 1)
- the Holy Spirit sanctifies (purifies, makes holy) me (vs 2)
- the purpose of my salvation is for me to obey Jesus Christ (vs 2)
- I am sprinkled with the blood of Jesus (vs 2)
- salvation brings me a living hope (vs 3)
- I am getting an imperishable inheritance (vs 4)
PRAYER
Father, as we see the greatness of the salvation that You have given us freely, we are amazed! Your provision of salvation is more valuable than anything else we can even imagine. It far outweighs whatever sufferings or persecution we may encounter because of our faith in You. Help us to remember that when we face persecution. And may we grow in our understanding of the greatness of our salvation in Jesus. Amen.
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