Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us today!
When we meet in person, we share our joys and concerns with each other. If you have prayer requests to share, you can add them to the comments on this post. When you are ready, you may use the prayer below to get started:
Gracious God, we see suffering all around us and we try to find a reason for it. We think of those who are suffering in their relationships, in their health, in their finances and in grief over the loss of a loved one. We don’t know why we must go through such times, but we know that, as Christians, we don’t go through them alone.
Even when we can’t find a reason for our suffering, we know that you can use such moments to shape us into better people and more faithful followers of Christ. We know that our response to suffering can serve as a witness to those outside the faith, and so our suffering is never without purpose. Help us to rely on you in all the times of our lives, and help us to draw closer to you in the challenging times. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.
This week's lesson is on 1 Peter 3:8-17.
Lesson context
The letter of 1 Peter is one of two existing letters by that apostle. The recipients of both letters were the various churches found in an area of northeastern Asia Minor, located in modern-day Turkey. The occasion for Peter’s letter was primarily a response to the suffering of believers, particularly since more was yet to come. (See 1 Peter 1:6-7.) Peter could address whatever suffering his audience had or would experience because he had been “a witness of Christ’s sufferings” (5:1). Peter himself had also suffered for that name. (Acts 12)
Right behavior (verses 8-12)
Verse 8 as a whole is only nine words in the original Greek language. Five of the nine words are adjectives that describe behavior sitting for believers facing a hostile world. The first adjective is translated as “like-minded and describes the desired unity of believers. This is a gift from God that is stressed throughout the New Testament, which speaks of its importance. The second adjective is translated “sympathy.” The third is philadelphoi, translated as love. This terms is used for the kind of love shared among family members and is the word from which we get “Philadelphia,” the city of brotherly love. The fourth and fifth adjectives are translated as compassion and humility. They provide the basis by which believers can live with love and compassion toward each other. Compassion, which is heartfelt concern for one another, is a crucial part of the life of a Christian. Its presence reflects a life transformed by God’s love. Humility is probably an umbrella term that includes ideas such as deference, kindness and thinking of others more highly than ourselves. (See Philippians 2.) Verse 9 continues Peter’s thought about how a believer’s life should be different. Now, though, he moves from attitudes to actions, from adjectives to verbs. We are not to respond to evil or insults with more evil and insults. Jesus himself faced mocking and insults before and during his crucifixion, but he did not respond in kind. Rather we are to respond with grace and blessing. Verse 10 begins with a quotation from Psalm 34:12-16, which is believed to have been written when David went through a time of suffering and trials. It supports Peter’s point that there is a right kind of behavior for believers who go through difficult times. In this case, it refers to the way one speaks during suffering. It is not to speak evil or to respond with deceit. Instead, believers are to pursue peace in our relationships with others.
Which route?
He was a new Bible college professor. He knew his teaching skills needed a lot of improvement, and negative student feedback wounded him deeply. In one feedback evaluation, a student said he should find a different line of work. An especially painful incident occurred one day during the college’s chapel service. A student had organized a skit in which the actors mocked a clueless professor who was obviously modeled after this man. After chapel, students watched as he went up to the stage to speak to the student who had instigated the mockery. Smiling, he shook the student’s hand firmly and pulled him into a side-hug. Looking at the student in the eyes, the professor said, “You’re a brilliant actor, Jim. God’s given you a great talent. I’m glad you’re my student.” Jim managed to stammer a “thanks” and went back to moving stage props. Although the skit had been mortifying, the man was confident that he had chosen the route of Jesus — the route of love, compassion and blessing. had you been that professor, would you have done the same?
Confident believers (verses 13-17)
Peter’s rhetorical question here — “Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?” — does not imply that Christians won’t suffer if they focus on doing good. They may. However, commentators point out that our ultimate concern must be to please God, and God looks favorably on lives focused on doing right. Even when such Christians do suffer, however, God will bless them. Peter is not suggesting that we take a kind of masochistic pleasure from such pain. However, those who hear God’s word and obey God’s commands are blessed even in the midst suffering. Therefore, such Christians should not fear those who threaten them. Instead, Christians should replace fear with something positive — reverence for Christ as Lord. We should also be ready to answer why we have hope in Christ. This is not primarily a call to witness to those who are already in Christ but mainly a call to tell those outside the faith about the difference that Christ makes. Our testimony, Peter says, should not be harsh or judgmental of the other person’s perspective. Rather it should be given with kindness and respect. Even if others speak against us for our lives and our testimony, by exercising our faith and speaking with kindness and respect, we can have a clear conscience. The conscience can be skewed and is not always an accurate measure, but if we are properly informed it can be a good guide to proper thought and behavior. When we suffer in such cases, we know that we are suffering for doing good rather than doing evil. This in itself is a powerful witness to those who do not believe.
Faith of the end
According to church history, Polycarp was a disciple of the Apostle John and became a leader in the church in Smyrna. He was put to death at the age of 86 for refusing to pray to the emperor. When given the chance to save his life by recanting his faith, Polycarp said, “Eighty-six years I have served him, and he has done me no wrong. How can I blaspheme my King and my Savior?” Polycarp was burned at the stake in AD 155. Polycarp didn’t do anything to deserve this death. And in facing it, he set apart Christ as his Lord to the very end. He died with a clear conscience.
Conclusion
Few of us will experience the level of suffering endured by the martyrs of Christian history. However, that does not make Peter’s directives any less applicable. Quite the opposite! When faced with suffering, we may search for meaning in that experience. The question asked relentlessly is, “Why?” That question if natural and understandable. But it must also be temporary because ultimately the “Why?” needs to change to “What’s next?” This is a way that our response to suffering can also serve as a way to point people to a life of faith in Jesus. God wants the best for people. When such suffering occurs, believers should remember to be unified in demonstrating trust in God.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank you for being with us in all situations. Help us to be unified with other believers. Show us how we can be attentive to the working of your Spirit. Fill us with peace and humility in all the trials that we might face. We trust that you will work through us to complete your will in the world. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Questions for discussion
Benediction
This week's benediction is from the New International Version.
Next week's lesson will be on Acts 6:7-15.
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Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us!
When we meet together, we take some time to share any prayer requests that anyone may have. If you would like to share a request, please add it as a comment to this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started.
Dear Father, God of love and peace,
Help me to examine myself, to test myself, to see whether I am holding to my faith. Help me to realize that Jesus Christ is in me - unless I should fail the test. Help me not to do anything wrong, to do nothing against the truth. Help me stand for Christ and for what is right and true. Let my life - my attitude and my deeds - show constant improvement. Help me mend my ways, agree with my fellow believers, and live in peace. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ rest upon me. May you, the God of love and peace, be near me. May the fellowship of your Holy Spirit surround me. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
This week's lesson is on 2 Corinthians 13:5-11.
Lesson Context
The book of 2 Corinthians is a letter written from Paul to the church at Corinth, a city about 50 miles west of Athens, Greece. This letter was written in preparation for Paul to make a return visit. Part of the reason for the letter were some remaining problems in Corinth. Some people there doubted that Christ was speaking through Paul. They wanted proof. Was he a true apostle of the Lord Jesus, or was Paul a con artist? They thought that Paul's weak presence and suffering-filled ministry meant that that he was a con artist. Paul's apostolic ministry had ben tested and verified through suffering rather than by avoiding it. The power of God seen in Paul's suffering was also seen in the life of Jesus. It wasn't Paul's credibility that was on the line. Instead, it was the credibility of the naysayers in the church at Corinth that was at issue.
Examination (verses 5-6)
Paul challenges his readers to undergo a season of spiritual self-discernent. It required them to look at their credibility as Christian believers. Usually when we see the word faith, it refers to one's personal belief in Christ, plus trust. In this case, the translation uses the phrase the faith. This refers to the body of doctrine to be believed and practiced. Paul's challenge is not to examine oneself to determine how much faith his readers have in Jesus, but rather to determine whether the readers accept his doctrinal teaching regarding the nature of the Christian faith. Paul's question about failing the test seems intentionally focused on those who were dismissive of Paul and unconvinced of his authority. He seems to assert that the people who doubt ought to test themselves rather than test Paul. He wanted his readers to realize the seriousness of the issue. To fail the self-evaluation would be to reveal a life without Jesus. Paul was confident that his proposed self-examination on the part of the Corinthians would cause them to realize who had the presence of Christ and who did not.
Expectation (verses 7-10)
A significant theme of this letter is a defense of Paul's ministry and apostolic authority. The two main pieces of evidence that validate that ministry and authority were God's power that shone through Paul's weakness and the moral transformation of the members of the church at Corinth. In order for the believers in Corinth to maintain their growth, they needed to not do anything wrong. This was not so for the sake of Paul's reputation, but for the reputation of the Corinthian readers. Paul was certain that the gospel truth would prevail. Paul had neither south wealth nor tried to deceive. He was not a manipulator, but one who lived authentically and without guile. Paul conformed his ministry to the gospel, which included his willingness to suffer and place himself in a position of weakness for the sake of others. He willingly worked with his hands to be self-supporting so that the Corinthians would not be distracted by requests for financial support. Paul's desire for the Corinthians to be fully restored is for there to be church unity resulting from the repentance of rebellious believers. The believers would be fully equipped to live out the gospel in their lives faithfully. Essentially, Paul prayed that the Corinthians would grow up in their faith. Paul wants the Corinthians to listen to this letter's sharp words so that he does not have to exercise his apostolic authority when he visits. The responsibility of those who occupy leadership positions in the church includes giving an account to God for the souls of those they served. Sometimes this responsibility requires reproving and rebuking those who oppose the truth.
Exhortation (verse 11)
Paul ends this passage by reaffirming his relationship with the Corinthian audience. Then, he give five brief and pointed challenges. First, rejoice! Second, strive for full restoration. It echoes Jesus' command to, "Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect," (Matthew 5:48). Third, encourage one another. This seems to be a condensed version of 2 Corinthians 1:4-6. Fourth, be of one mind. This stresses the importance of church unity. It can speak to doctrinal unity, but also essential is a shared humility. Fifth, live in peace.
Conclusion
It is important to take inventory and examine ourselves. Avoiding evil is not enough in and of itself. Evil must be replaced with doing what is right. An unexamined life is not worth living. Paul calls us to submit to a process of discernment by which we try out hearts.
This necessary self-examination requires a familial bond, a desire for maturity, a striving toward perfection, mutual encouragement, a shared commitment to live out the meaning of the gospel, and peaceful practices. An examined faith can flourish in that kind of church. Without such a community, faith will suffer and perhaps die spiritually. The process begins by asking whether we know ourselves.
Prayer
O God, we ask you for the courage to examine ourselves with unvarnished honesty so that we may discern Christ in us. In the name of your Son, who gives resurrection life, we pray. Amen.
Questions for Discussion
Benediction
This week's benediction is from the New International Version.
Next week's lesson will be on 1 Peter 3:8-17.
Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us!
We are returning to Sunday School before the worship service this week.
When we meet in person, we take time to share any joys or concerns from the previous week. If you have any to share, please add them as a comment on this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started.
Heavenly Father, I know that there are many dangers and difficulties in life that combine to shipwreck my faith in You. I desire to love You more, to know You better, to keep the Lord Jesus as the centre of my life, and to grow in grace. Give me the wisdom to discern what is not from You and ears to hear the promptings of the Holy Spirit. In Your mercy, keep me under the shadow of Your protection. In Jesus' name, AMEN.
Today's lesson is on Jude 17-25.
Lesson Context
Jude, the author of this letter, was the brother of James, one of the elders and leaders of the church in Jerusalem (Acts 12:17; 15:13; 21:18; Galatians 1:19; 2:9). Since James was a brother of Jesus, this means Jude was as well. Though both opposed Jesus during his ministry before his death, both became committed believers after the resurrection of Jesus (1 Corinthians 15:7; Jude 1). What we know as the book of Jude was probably a sermon that circulated among several congregations as an open letter. He addressed a number of congregations at one time, and they were all endangered by ungodly intruders and leaders. Jude clearly stated his main interest. He encouraged believers to "contend for the faith," that had been delivered to them (Jude 3). He identified the troublemakers, warned that their destiny is the same as that of Sodom and Gomorrah and the devil, and promised God would execute judgment against the "ungodly" for their "ungodly acts."
Lesson
The apostles warned about the rise of ungodly people who would disturb the church and seek to gain their own followers. By reminding them of this apostolic warning, Jude highlighted the importance of the apostolic voice in the early church. The apostolic word or teaching both guides and warns the church. The teaching of both the prophets and apostles is the church's foundation, with Jesus Christ as the cornerstone. Mockers and scoffers have always been part of the story of the church. Jude's warning is for all believers throughout the life span of the church. This is a constant danger rather than a unique one. What drives these false leaders? They did not believe God's judgment applied to them, or perhaps that there was any coming judgment at all. Rather, they followed their own desires. Jude emphasized that their motivations were ungodly. They were only interested in themselves, whether that greed or ambition was about wealth, power, or other possible lusts. These ungodly people are divisive, worldly, and lack the Spirit of God. In essence, Jude identified this ungodly presence by their works or effect on the congregation. In contrast, believers guild their lives on the faith, pray in the Spirit, and joyfully anticipate the mercy they will receive when Jesus comes again. Jude addressed these believers as dear friends, and their identity was rooted in God's love for them. In the Greek text, the main verb -- and the only command -- is keep yourselves in God's love. This was a call to action. As dangers mounted and seemed to overwhelm, believers need to continually ground themselves in God's love. While Jude stressed that believers are responsible for keeping themselves in the love of God, he also made it clear that it is God who empowers our perseverance in that love. God keeps us, while believers are also accountable for their own faith as well. Ultimately, believers do not save themselves, nor do they generate their own assurance. Rather, God acts to keep us and causes us to stand in God's glorious presence without blemish.
Conclusion
We live in perilous times, much like the church at the time when Jude was written. So we should recognize and identify the dangers. The church is called to exercise healthy discernment and heed the warnings of the apostles. At the same time, the church does not live in fear but in confidence. We root ourselves in God's love for us, and we pour that same love on those who have been damaged by these perilous times. While we practice discernment and contend for the faith, we also show God's mercy to others as we minister to those who doubt, those ensnared in the fire, and those who have soiled their garments. Secured in the love of God by the foundation laid down by apostolic teaching, praying in the Spirit, and looking forward to the mercy of Christ's second coming, we help others and show them the love which God has loved us.
Prayer
God, keep us secure in your love and enable us to show mercy to others in need of your love. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Questions for Discussion
Benediction
This week's benediction is from the New International Version.
Next week's lesson will be on 2 Corinthians 13:5-11.
Good morning!
We're so glad you chose to join us today!
When we meet together in person, we share joys and concerns together. If you have any prayer requests to share, please add them as a comment on this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below to get started.
We confess that we don't have all the answers. You alone have the answers and know our futures. In our lives, Lord, show us a peace that passes all understanding when we face uncertainty. Help us to remember that you love us, provide for us, and guide us by Your perfect will. Amen.
Today's lesson is on Habakkuk 2:1-5.
Faced with unjust behavior of Judah's enemies, the prophet Habakkuk questioned the Lord. Habakkuk wondered whether the Lord heard his questions or if the Lord had left the conversation altogether. We know nothing regarding the exact details of the life of Habakkuk. With the events mentioned in this book Habakkuk likely served sometime during the last decade of the seventh century BC; that would be during the reign of evil King Jehoiakim (609-598 BC).
Following the split of Israel into two kingdoms in about 931 BC things went pretty much downhill for both. The kingdoms of Israel (10 tribes to the north) and Judah (2 tribes to the south). The Assyrians conquered and exiled the northern tribes in 722 BC. About a century later the Babylonian Empire became the regional superpower after defeating the Assyrians and Egyptians at the battle of Carchemish in 605 BC. King Josiah of Judah unwisely interfered, contributing to the Babylonian victory; Josiah's action also cost him his life. (2 Chronicles 35: 20-27) Just as Habakkuk 1:6 promised, Babylonian force invaded Judah and overthrew its king. For a few years, Judah's kings served as vassals to the Babylonians. However, this arrangement didn't last. During the final year of the reign of King Zedekiah (587 BC) Jerusalem and the kingdom fell to the Babylonians after about a decade of conflict. This places Habakkuk as a contemporary of the prophet Jeremiah. Both prophets received a warning that the people of Jerusalem would face dire consequences because of sinful behavior. An outline of the book of Habakkuk reveals a conversation between the prophet and the Lord. Two sections of the book consist of the prophet's questions to the Lord. Following each round of inquiry, the Lord responded. In Habakkuk's first section of questioning, he expressed discontent that the Lord had seemingly not heard the prophet's call for correction of sin. In his complaint, the prophet's conclusion for this uncorrected state of affairs was that “the law is paralyzed, and justice never prevails”. The Lord answered that he was going to use the Babylonians to punish Judah. This response left Habakkuk even more confused. In his lengthy rejoinder, the prophet asked why the Lord would use a less-righteous nation. Today's text picks up at the very end of Habakkuk's second complaint. In the first verse the prophet shifts from questioning the Lord to waiting for the Lord's response. When people call out to the Lord, the timing of his response is always perfect, but it is not always as fast as we desire. Habakkuk himself has been impatient in this regard. Habakkuk had no idea how long it would take. In this determined concentration, the prophet envisioned himself as a lookout who would stand at his watch as he performed the duty of a person responsible for sounding an early warning of something that was approaching. The Old Testament prophets were spiritual lookouts for the people they served. The prophets were to proclaim the arrival of the Lord's reign (Isaiah 52:8-10) and warn the people of the consequences of their disobedience (example Jeremiah 6:17). In most cases, the people failed to heed the warning of these prophetic watchmen. But if their failure to heed was due to the prophet's failure to warn, then the prophet would be accountable. The Lord replied to Habakkuk's complaints and told him to write it on tablets which would be almost permanent. When prophets wrote messages from the Lord they frequently did so on rolls (scrolls) of papyrus which would be fragile and could be burned. The same could not be said of stone. Habakkuk got his response but had to wait for its fulfillment. God's promise would eventually be fulfilled, but not on a timetable that Habakkuk desired. We frequently become impatient when we have to wait. Rather than wait for God to act, we may take steps to expedite God's promise. Rather than see God as patient we interpret God's silence as his refusal to act or hear. Habakkuk needed to trust that the Lord would respond to wickedness in the Lord's own time and manner. The Lord's message distinguishes two types of people. The first type is the person who is puffed up with self-assured pride and arrogance. Such a perspective was indicative of Judah's enemies during this time. The military strength of the Babylonians was undeniable, leading them to count their power as a god. Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar saw the expanse of the kingdom as the result of his power. Even as the Lord raised the Babylonians to conquer Judah, he acknowledged their pride. Such people will face dramatic consequences. (see Leviticus 26:19: Luke 18:14) The second type - the righteous – lives with an entirely different outlook, one of faithfulness. Their lives are grounded in righteousness. Such a person follows God's standards regarding their relationships with God and others. This person lives with integrity and without blame for wrongdoing. Psalm 15, attributed to King David, depicts the mindset and behavior of a righteous person. This type of person speaks well of others, keeps a trustworthy word and treats others fairly. God expresses great pleasure when his people live justly and righteously. This is because his nature is righteousness: and his rule over creation is one of justice. The Hebrew word translated faithfulness is also translated as “truth” in Jeremiah 5. To be a person of faith goes hand in hand with being a person of truth. Unfaithful people depart from the truth. In the book of Habakkuk, God calls his people to have faith in the truth of his plans, even when those plans seem unbelievable. Although the Babylonians would prosper for a time by placing faith in themselves, the people of Judah were to depend on the Lord. The apostle Paul connected the concepts of truth and faithfulness in applying them to his ministry as an apostle (1 Timothy 2:7; Titus 1:1) we must proclaim truth and live with faithfulness as we follow God and trust him. Elsewhere, Paul quoted Habakkuk 2:4b in explaining the nature of the gospel with regard to righteousness, which is a characteristic of God that is to be ours as well. (Romans 1:16-17) To be righteous is to do what is right in God's eyes but it can't be based on mere good behavior. Instead, a right standing before God is imputed on the basis of faith. Paul quotes Habakkuk in Galatians 3:11-14. In a section of Hebrews that teaches the importance of the perseverance of faith, quotes from a portion of Habakkuk 2:3: ”For, in just a little while, he who is coming will come and will not delay.” And, “But my righteous one will live by faith:” We live by faith because we can trust that God will also be faithful to his promise. Babylon's military successes made them want more military conquest. The Bible addresses the dangers of pride and arrogance more than 200 times. Arrogant, prideful people always incur God's disfavor. Such prideful behavior will not go unpunished. God will reverse selfish ambition. In response to the arrogance and destructive behavior of Judah's enemies, the Lord predicts punishment in terms of five sets of “woe”. Although Judah was to suffer for its arrogant disobedience, its prideful and arrogant enemies would also experience a downfall equally devastating, if not more so.
Conclusion – Questioning God
Is it OK to question God's (apparent) actions or inactions? The dependable answer is, “It depends”. We see God tolerating, even welcoming questions in numerous places. (Examples: Judges 20:18; James 1:5; 4:2) One thing God does not tolerate, however, are inquiries that question his justice (see Job 40:8; Ezekiel 18:25-29; Jeremiah 2:29) The prophet Habakkuk came close to doing that. Consider the following thumbnail sketch of the book: Question 1: Why do you, O God, tolerate the sins of your people? Response 1: Don't worry about it – I'm sending the Babylonians to punish them. Question 2 : How is it fair to use the less-righteous to punish the more-righteous? Response 2: Don't worry about it-the Babylonians will get theirs too. God's ending of the discussion: Be quiet! When our suffering does not seem “fair” there are a lot of questions we might naturally ask. God was under no obligation to answer Habakkuk's questions and he is not obligated to answer ours. Habakkuk needed faith to trust the Lord's plans, regardless of whether or not those plans made human sense. God reminded Habakkuk that a life of faithfulness was most important. And the faith we are talking about isn't “blind faith”- a faith where one merely believes. Instead, the faith we are talking about is a faith based on evidence. God has a long track record of faithfulness to his promises. Upon that track record is where our faith is based. Such faith trusts God's control in all circumstances. As a result, we can be secure in him, regardless of whether or not we understand his plans.
Prayer
God, as we face life's hardship and want to question you, help us have the confidence of faith. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen
Questions for Discussion
Benediction
This week's benediction is from the Legacy Standard Bible.
Next week, we will begin our spring quarter, with the topic Examining our Faith. We will be switching back to Sunday School before the worship service.
The lesson next week will be on Jude 17-25.
Good morning!
We're so glad you chose to join us today!
When we meet in person, we share our joys and concerns with each other. If you have prayer requests to share, you can add them to the comments on this post. When you are ready, you may use the prayer below to get started:
Lord, we confess that you are with us and that you have the power to help us in every situation. Yet we often get so caught up in the busyness of our daily lives that we fail to pray or we approach you only with shallow and selfish prayers.
Give our relationship with you the depth and consistency of Daniel, who could not stop praying any more than he could stop breathing. Help us to rely on you for every moment of our lives, in good times and in struggles. For we ask it in Christ’s name. Amen.
Today's lesson is on Daniel 6:10-11, 14, 16, 19-23, 26-27. You can also read it with all of the skipped verses here.
Lesson context
Several years have passed since the events of last week’s lesson, when God protected the lives of three faithful Jewish exiles from a fiery furnace. In the meantime, the Persian Empire has arisen and replaced the Babylonians. As our lesson begins, a Persian king named Darius has appointed 120 “satraps,” who were subordinate provincial officials under the authority of three administrators, including Daniel. The king preferred Daniel and planned to give him authority over the entire kingdom, but this led to envy among Daniel’s peers. Therefore, they schemed against him. When they couldn’t find any fault in Daniel’s work on behalf of the king, they developed a trap from which even Darius would not be able to release Daniel. Since Daniel was trustworthy and was not corrupt or negligent, the schemers realized their plan had to pit Daniel’s loyalty to the king against his loyalty to God. Knowing that Daniel prayed to God faithfully each day, they encouraged the king to announce a decree that anyone who prayed to any deity or man except the king for 30 days would be thrown into a den of lions. Darius did so.
Violation and consequence (Verses 10-11, 14, 16)
Despite the decree, Daniel continued to pray as always, and his peers soon reported him to the king. The Law of Moses commanded people to remember God’s commands daily. At the dedication of Solomon’s temple, the Lord commanded the people to pray toward Jerusalem and the temple during times of distress. However, there was no command to kneel and pray three times a day. This was a part of Daniel’s personal spiritual routine, and he would do it regardless of the consequences. As a group, the men went to find Daniel praying and asking God for help. When the king learned about it, he was distressed and made every effort to save him. However, the officials reminded him of his decree and how Daniel had violated it. Darius realized he had been manipulated because of envy and selfishness. The king had been naive and had failed to see that he was being used as a pawn in the plot. Instead of being angered by Daniel’s disobedience, he was displeased with himself. A similar thing happens in the book of Esther, when a Persian king issues a decree that he cannot revoke. Because there is no non-biblical reference to such laws, the exact stipulations are unknown. However, it seems that it was impossible even for the king himself to reverse his decree. As required, the king gave the order for the consequences to be carried out. According to the lesson, an excavated Assyrian relief dating to the seventh century BC depicts Assyrian royals hunting lions for sport. Such lions were kept in dens before being released into an arena for “hunting.” The Assyrians practiced a form of polytheism, believing in many gods, but Darius recognized that Daniel prayed to one God. Although some think believe the king was speaking with skepticism or even sarcasm, It seems most likely that the king sincerely wanted Daniel’s God to rescue him and believed God could do it. His faith contrasts with that of Nebuchadnezzar in the previous lesson. In that story, the king doubted that any god could rescue the three men from the furnace. Only after seeing it for himself did he admit that “no other god can save in this way.”
Release and vindication (Verses 19-23, 26-27)
Although not a part of the printed lesson, the Bible says that the mouth of the den was sealed with a stone, secured by the king’s own signet, and that the king spent the night without eating, without entertainment and without sleep. It is clear that the king is fully invested in Daniel’s plight. Therefore, at first light he rushes to the lions’ den, knowing that the only way Daniel could survive was by God’s intervention. As he approaches the den, Darius calls out, “Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, who you serve continually, been able to rescue you from the lions?” The words are important. Darius is gaining a deeper understanding that Daniel’s God is a living God who is able to intervene in human situations, unlike the so-called gods of the Assyrians. Even though Daniel came to the perilous situation because of the king’s lack of insight, Daniel did not disrespect or hold a grudge against Darius. “May the king live forever!” he responded. This is the first and only time in the book that a Jewish person greets a king in this way. Daniel testifies that God sent an angel who shut the lions’ mouths and that God did this because God found Daniel innocent. This does not mean that Daniel was perfect but only that he tried to follow God’s laws and to serve the king faithfully. The king’s anxiety turns to joy and gladness over Daniel’s condition. Daniel did not have a wound on him, and it was because he trusted in God. This does not imply that faithfulness obligates God to save believers from death. Some believers have experienced martyrdom, but all who remain faithful are promised eternal rewards. In either case, public displays of faithfulness have a transforming influence on the community. This was true in Daniel’s case. Darius issues a decree that the entire kingdom must fear and reverence the God of Daniel
Conclusion
Public confessions model something meaningful for today’s Christians. It’s easy to think of “confession: as an admission of sin, especially in a lurid, tell-all fashion. But that is not what the word means when describing the texts in Daniel. Here, the confession tells good news. The Lord chose to deliver Daniel, which resulted in the king’s surprising new edict. Daniel’s confession what happened with the lions and the king’s reaction reoriented both the characters in the story and those reading about them to a larger truth. God’s reign is both eternal and full of goodness. God’s loyalty to his people reflects God’s divine character and the large-scale divine plan to redeem humanity. Daniel knew that, and eventually, so did Darius. So do we. The church continues to confess its sins but also God’s redemption. Our life of celebration begins where Darius ended his learning experience. By repeatedly confessing God’s goodness, we bring those outside within hearing distance of the gospel itself. Daniel did so by his faithfulness in this story, and we do so too when we confess the gospel of our salvation.
Prayer
Living God, you care for your people and have promised to be with us no matter what we face. Give us the courage to face adversity and maintain faithfulness to you. Help us behave with mercy to those who have sought to harm us. Show us how to follow you in a manner that brings other people closer to you. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Questions for discussion
Benediction
This week's benediction is from the New Revised Standard Version.
Next week's lesson will be on Habakkuk 2:1-5.
Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us today!
When we meet in person, we take time to share any joys or concerns we may have. If you have any prayer requests to share, please add them as a comment on this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started.
Dear Father in heaven, please give me the same kind of faith that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego demonstrated! When adversity, persecution, ridicule, and ostracism come, I want my faith to stand up to the test. Thank you, dear Father, for giving me the Bible, which is my book of heroes who stood their ground and kept their faith, especially under fire. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
Today's lesson is on Daniel 3:19-28.
Lesson Context
The book of Daniel takes place during the exile in Babylon. People were deported from Judah from 605 BC to 586 BC when Judah fell. Among the deported were talented young men selected for their fitness for service to the Babylonian king. The book describes the wisdom of Daniel and his friends as they lived and served in Babylon. The men's position required a demonstration of some loyalty to the Babylonian king. An example of this was their change in name (Daniel 1:6-7). The book of Daniel is preserved in two different languages. Part of the book is in Hebrew, while the other is in Aramaic, for the Gentile empires. Today's story comes from the portion in Aramaic. Before our text begins, Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, erected a large image of gold. It was probably located several miles south of the city of Babylon. Royal subjects, advisors, and kingdom officials arrived for the image's dedication ceremony and to worship it. Shadrach, Meschach and Abednego refused to worship the image. As punishment, they were thrown into a blazing furnace to be executed.
Royal Anger (verses 19-23)
King Nebuchadnezzar was furious! He ordered his trusted advisors to be thrown into the furnace. Because he was so angry, he ordered the furnace to be as hot as it could get. The best, strongest soldiers carried Shadrach, Meschach and Abednego to the furnace. The men probably had flammable, Persian-style clothing on. They were bound and thrown down in. The furnace was so hot that the soldiers carrying the Jewish men were burned up in the flames.
Divine Presence (verses 24-28)
Throughout the book of Daniel, the leaders in Babylon reacted with fear and amazement when God demonstrated miraculous power. Nebuchadnezzar's response continues the trend. He intended to execute three Jewish men. Instead, he was amazed to see four men walking around in the furnace, completely unharmed. We are not really sure who or what the fourth man was. This man may have been a pre-incarnate version of Christ, or an angelic presence. Nebuchadnezzar interpreted the vision as "like a son of the gods," probably based on the pagan pantheon of gods he was accustomed to. This divine presence was sent by God to protect his people. The king realized that they were protected by the most high God. He acknowledged the superiority of the God of Israel. However, he still accepted other pagan gods. Everyone in the king's service was amazed when Shadrach, Meschach and Abednego walked out of the furnace. The last verse of our lesson is a summary. Nebuchadnezzar saw God's miraculous work of deliverance. As a result, the king proclaimed that God be praised. The king changed his word and acknowledged that God's power to save was unparalleled. Eventually, the king will totally and completely worship the one true God (Daniel 4:34-37).
Conclusion
Two options face believers when we experience the testing of our faith. One possibility is that we succumb to the testing. The other option is to maintain faithfulness to God, despite the testing. Even when faced with death, the men in today's passage chose the latter option. Their faith in God provided the courage they needed to withstand the testing and resist committing evil. Although we may never experience the same testing, all believers will likely experience some amount of testing of our faith. God is faithful to his people, even when they are tested. When we face these experiences, we can have trust and respond with faithfulness to him.
Prayer
Most high God, you are the one true God. You are faithful to your people, and you continue to show your faithfulness to us. Through your Spirit, fortify our faith and trust so we can continue to resist the temptation to worship other "gods" -- large and small. Show us how we might support other believers in their trials of faith. Give us encouragement and strength no matter where you have called us. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Questions for Discussion
Benediction
Today's benediction is from the Message.
Next week's lesson will be on Daniel 6:10-11, 14, 16, 19-23, 26-27.
Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us today!
When we meet in person, we take time to share prayer requests we might have. If you have any to share, please add them as a comment on this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started.
O Lord, thank you for sustaining me through the hard times in my life. Thank you for helping me soar, doing things for you that I never dreamed I could accomplish. Father, thank you for blessing me during the everyday comings and goings of life. I depend upon you for help and strength. For every good thing in my life I praise you and thank you. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
Today's lesson is on Isaiah 40:12-23, 25-31.
The New Testament tells us that God spoke through the prophets. Prophets were fearless men whose main duty was to deal with the religious and moral life of the people. The keynote of Isaiah is “salvation.” Isaiah means “salvation of Jehovah.” At the time of Isaiah, Israel was divided into the Northern and Southern Kingdom. Isaiah spoke to Judah. He also portrays the birth, family, anointing, character, simplicity of life, gentleness, death, resurrection and his glorious return and reign of the coming Messiah. Isaiah was a man of royal blood. He was an aristocrat who was brought up in the court and had high standing with the people of Jerusalem. Tradition tells us that his ministry as a prophet lasted 60 years and he was 120 years old when he died.
Prayer
Father, we thank you for the record left to us by the prophet Isaiah! May we realize fully that, with the New Testament, we now have immeasurably more insight into your nature than Isaiah did! Help us to take neither you nor your Word for granted. Renew our strength as only you are able to do. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen. Thought to Remember There is never any power shortage with God.
Questions for Discussion
Benediction
Today's benediction is from the New King James Version.
Next week's lesson will be on Daniel 3:19-28.
Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us today!
When we meet each week, we take time to share any prayer requests we might have. If you have any to share, please add them as a comment to this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started.
Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Help us to learn and grow in our spiritual gifts that you uniquely give each of us. We ask that you help us to use our spiritual gifts for your glory. We pray that we may be bold in sharing the gospel, and that we would be faithful in serving you. We ask that you would help us to grow in our knowledge of you and that we would be obedient to your will. We praise you for your goodness and your faithfulness, and we ask that you continue to work in our lives. In Jesus name. Amen
This week's lesson is on Romans 12:3-8.
The book of Romans was written by Paul in about AD 58, Probably toward the end of his third missionary journey. At that point, Paul had not yet been to Rome, but greatly wished to visit. He would do so, but in chains as a prisoner.
He made it to Rome by about AD 61 but remained under house arrest, unable to move about the city as he might have wished. Paul wrote his letter to the church to introduce himself and his teaching prior to a personal visit there. The church was likely established not long after the day of Pentecost, some 30 years earlier. Some of the Jews who heard Peter's sermon that day were from Rome, and it's easy to imagine that they were the ones who started the church after returning home to Rome. There is little doubt that the Roman church had heard of Paul and looked forward to meeting him. The book of Romans falls into two major sections. The first part, Romans 1-11, features some of the most doctrinal heavy thoughts in all of Scripture. A shift comes with Romans 12-16, which addresses how Christians then live in light of the truth of those doctrines. The ability to discern the “what God's will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will” begins with the correct thought of ourselves. For a person to think soberly is to think rationally and appropriately. Paul introduced the common standard of measurement by which to evaluate oneself: it is the measure of faith. For just as each of us has one body with many members and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. It should be obvious that not all parts of the body perform the same function. A hand does not function as an ear and vice versa. Paul desired his readers to think in terms of one as a collective singular of many. As Christians cannot serve effectively apart from other Christians, so also one body cannot operate independently of the head, who is Christ.
Gifts- How to serve
Paul begins a list of seven different gifts. The gift of prophecy involves proclaiming information divinely revealed for the church's edification. We pause here for caution: as Paul begins his listing of such gifts according to this text and others. But to do so runs the risk of missing the bigger picture which is spiritual gifts serve as an example of a church that is united in it diversity Spiritual gifts are not given merely to bless the person receiving the gift but to build up the church as a whole. Most of all, these gifts are intended to be displays of love between believers. We move to the second gift in Paul's grouping of four: service. Service was the usual way to describe the work that Christians did on behalf of others. Christian ministry in general (Romans 15:25; Philemon 13) The ministry of Christ (Romans 15:8; Galatians 2:17) Specific Christian ministries (Romans 11:13; 2 Corinthians 9:12-13) Ministry of the office of deacon (Philippians 1:1; 1 Timothy 3: 8-13) Ministry of a secular authority (Romans 13:4) Paul then focuses on the person who teaches rather than the gift of teaching. Teaching is distinct from prophesying. Prophesy is based on revealing the information that God has placed in the prophet's mouth; teaching involves communicating the truth of the gospel. Teaching was critical for the first-century church, where many people were not formally educated. They learned from auditory instructions instead of reading. Therefore, it was and is a primary task of the eldership. Fourth gift is encouragement. Primary ways Paul used this was to comfort, urge, or encourage. Paul is challenging those with this gift to use it in terms of being a bit stronger than merely “requesting” something of someone else but a bit less strong than “commanding” that person. If it is giving, then give generously. To give is to share with another or the church what one has. This is an expectation of all believers. There are no ulterior motives for our giving. If it is to lead, do it diligently. This includes church leadership, family leadership or household management and self-management. To be such a person is to be in control in a godly sense. If you show mercy, do it cheerfully. To show mercy requires both action and proper attitude. Showing mercy involves more than merely offering lip service sympathy or forgiveness. In the Beatitudes Jesus states, “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” The mercy we ourselves have received from God is the basis for our own action of mercy, as Jesus' parable of the unmerciful servant makes clear. (Matthew 18:21-35) We see the cheerfulness aspect of showing mercy also reflected in giving (2 Corinthians 9:7), such giving being a specific kind of merciful act. At this point, this list of spiritual gifts ends. But the very next verse (Romans 12:9) relates love to spiritual gifts in much the same way as 1 Corinthians 12:14 does. Love is the touchstone for how any spiritual gift is used.
Conclusion: All gifts matter
We understand that all spiritual gifts are important. But at the same time, we know that not all such gifts are equal and that not all believers are equally gifted (Matthew 25:14-15) As a result, our natural tendency is to pay more attention to the gifts that are more visible, more “out front” to the public. The highly visible preacher of the church usually gets paid more that the less visible custodian who cleans the church. But here's where Paul's illustration of body members working together (unity in diversity) comes in per Romans 12: 4-5: I don't think you would want to go to a dirty and smelly church any more than you would want to go to church with a horrible preacher! The functions of one's hands are much more varied, useful and visible then are the functions of one's elbow. But a nonfunctioning elbow will severely limit how the hand can function. Pride is a danger to those having the more visible gifts. Also a danger is that those who have the less visible gifts won't use them, perhaps figuratively “burying” them. (Matthew 25:25) But just as no human body functions to its highest potential unless all of its parts are working together, so also the church- the body of Christ – does not function at full potential until all of its members use their spiritual gifts. The cure or preventative for both pride of gifts and nonuse of gifts is Luke 17:10. “So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, we are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.” Your gifts A popular tool that churches and ministries have turned to since at least the 1980's is a spiritual gifts assessment inventory (or tests) during my time as a student in Bible college and seminary. You can take these tests online and get your results. Most of the time, they told me what I suspected already: that teaching was one of my spiritual gifts. Occasionally, an inventory would indicate that I had a secondary gift that I didn't realize. One such result was that I had the gift of administration. I found that to be exceptionally funny, given the reality of the piles of books, articles and papers piled on my desk, floor and couch. This goes to show that these inventories aren't perfect – they can be misleading. An assumption behind those inventories is that helping people identify what their giftings are will mean that those who have been enlightened will automatically start using those gifts. But that is not always so. People will need encouragement to use and otherwise develop their spiritual gifts. Sometimes, people need the wisdom and insight of others to help discern which giftings are present. Another assumption is that such inventories are even needed for people to be able to identify their areas of spiritual giftedness. A more accurate indicator may be personal experience. What types of Christians service do your personal experiences tell you that you have been best at? Where have you fallen flat.
Prayer
Father, you have called all of your servants to serve. Help us to realize our gifts and give us the courage to develop and use them for your glory. Help us to remember that no matter what our gifts are all members of one body and that no one is unimportant to your church and to you. We pray in Jesus' name. Amen. Thought to remember: Know your spiritual gifts and use them with humility
Questions
Benediction
This week's benediction is from the King James Version.
Next week's lesson will be on Isaiah 40:12-13, 25-31.
Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us today!
When we meet in person, we share our joys and concerns with each other. If you have prayer requests to share, you can add them to the comments on this post. When you are ready, you may use the prayer below to get started:
Gracious God, we gather this morning facing various challenges in our lives. We admit that we are fearful and uncertain about what lies ahead, that we are ill-equipped to handle them in our own strength. And so we turn to you, and we ask you to go before us and to help us overcome our problems.
Because you are a God who cares about us, we praise you and we thank you. In Christ’s name. Amen.
Today's lesson is on 2 Chronicles 20:13-20.
Lesson context
The book of 2 Chronicles covers the period from 970 BC to 536 BC. It spans from Solomon, the last king of Israel as a united monarchy, to Cyrus, the king of Persia who ended the Babylonian exile. Readers may wonder why the books of 1 and 2 Chronicles are useful since much of their content mirrors that of 2 Samuel and 1 and 2 Kings. A clue is found in the title of 1 and 2 Chronicles as appearing in the Greek version of the Old Testament, known as the Septuagint. There the title translates into English as “Things Omitted.” “Things Omitted” is an appropriate designation for the text of today’s lesson. It focuses on events during the reign of Jehoshaphat, king of Judah (the southern kingdom of the divided Israel) from about 872 BC to 848 BC. The text of 2 Chronicles 17:1-21:3 has much more information about him than is recorded in 1 Kings 15:24 and 22:1-50. Jehoshaphat reigned during the period of the divided monarchy in Israelite history. He was one of the more godly kings of Judah. He is noted for his efforts to rid Judah of idol worship and to promote the teaching of God’s law throughout the land. Also noteworthy is the respect he was held in by surrounding people and the attention he gave to various building projects and administrative reforms. On the downside, however, he entered into an ill-advised alliance with Ahab, king of northern Israel, who enlisted Jehoshaphat’s help in retaking some territory from the Arameans. After hearing of God’s displeasure with that alliance, Jehoshaphat reorganized his government both physically and spiritually. Later a coalition of enemy forces began marching toward Judah. That resulted in the king and his country becoming unified in fasting and public prayer — prayer that confessed utter reliance on the Lord to defeat this threat (1 Kings 20:3-12). The Lord’s response came next.
Facing a crisis (verses 13 to 17)
In this dire situation, representatives from every town came together. The crisis was so severe, in fact, that not only men but also women and children participated. After hearing the king’s prayer, they awaited God’s response. Then the Spirit of the Lord “came on” a man named Jahaziel. As the lesson points out, during the Old Testament era, God’s Spirit seems to have come on certain individuals for a limited time and a specific purpose. In this case, it was so that God could speak through him to the people of Judah. Through him, God tells the people not to be afraid or discouraged by the vast army that is approaching. That’s because the battle is God’s, not theirs. That would have been comforting news to those who believed the message. The coalition army was only about 25 miles away and could be there in less than three days. The instructions are not for the people to do nothing, however. The next day they are to march a particular location, the Pass of Ziz, less than 20 miles from Jerusalem. Although they are to take their positions and stand firm, they will only witness how the Lord delivers them. The words are similar to the ones Moses spoke to the people centuries earlier when the Egyptians pursued them. (See Exodus 14:13-14.)
‘Faith-ing’ a crisis (verses 18-20)
The Lord had heard the king’s prayer and was answering it. Worship was the proper response. The king bowed down, and the people followed his example. Then some from the priestly families of Kohath and Korah got up from the ground and began praising God loudly. Kohath was the second of Levi’s sons. Korah is best known for organizing a rebellion against the authority of Moses. He and those who followed him were swallowed by the earth, but not all the Korahites joined in the rebellion. These are descendants of those who did not rebel. What a contrast it is between these descendants, who rose up to praise God, and some of their ancestors, who rose up to defy Moses! As they set out, King Jehoshaphat calls on his people to have faith in the Lord and to believe in the message they had heard. By having faith in the prophetic message, they will succeed, he tells them. Elsewhere in the Old Testament, when God’s people ignored or mocked the prophets, God sent judgment upon them. (See, for example, 2 Kings 17.) The people of Judah chose to listen to God’s words in this case, and God brought them a providential and even miraculous deliverance. Although it’s not part of today’s lesson, when the people of Judah arrived, instead of finding a vast army, they found a multitude of dead bodies. The biblical account does not tell exactly how this happened but only that the Lord set up ambushes for them and the coalition forces began fighting among themselves. Some commentators speculate that angels initiated a battle, and the different forces began fighting among themselves. Others suggest that a band of desert wanderers attacked a portion of the army, and the allies began attacking each other. In any case, the people were able to plunder their enemies possessions. Both the king and his people returned to Jerusalem just as they had left it — in triumphant praise and worship of the Lord.
Conclusion
King Jehoshaphat had offered a passionate plea to the Lord for help, admitting that neither the king nor his people had any strategy or resources to confront the oncoming threat. Perhaps as his prayer progressed, his voice grew louder, possibly even trembling as he reached the end and declared his utter dependence upon God: “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you” (2 Chronicles 20:12). Then came Jahaziel’s Spirit-empowered words. The people’s “uplook” changed their outlook. All of us can probably recall a time when a passage of God’s Word was especially reassuring and helped get us through difficult circumstances. We may not have felt as desperate as Jehoshaphat did, but we experienced the energy that comes from God’s encouragement. We may not be like Jahaziel, who encouraged a king and his nation when the Spirit of God came upon him. But perhaps during the course of a day, someone will come to mind that we should share a Scripture passage with by a phone call, text message, email or postcard. Who might that be?
Prayer
Father, our culture and our world are often characterized by speech and actions that oppose your truth. Keep our eyes on you daily, that we may escape their influence! Thank you for the one who have encouraged us over the years through your promises. May we seek to pass that blessing on to others. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Questions for discussion:
Benediction
Today's benediction is from the New International Version.
Next week's lesson will be on Romans 12:3-8.
Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us today!
Each week that we meet in person, we take some time to share any joys or concerns we might have. Take some time to consider your past week. If you have any prayer requests to share, please add them as a comment to this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started.
Lord, today I place my trust in You with all my heart. I acknowledge that my understanding is limited, and I lean on You for guidance and wisdom in all I do.
Help me to rely not on my own understanding but on Your infinite knowledge and love. As I prepare to face the challenges and blessings of this day, I submit myself to Your will. I surrender my plans, desires, and ambitions to You, knowing that Your ways are higher and wiser than mine. I ask for the humility and strength to align my actions and decisions with Your divine purpose. Lord, please make my paths straight. Remove any obstacles that may lead me astray from Your righteous and loving path. Grant me the clarity to discern Your will and the courage to follow it, even when it may seem unclear or difficult. In every moment of this day, I seek Your guidance and presence. Whether in times of joy or trial, help me to remember Proverbs 3:5-6, and may these verses be a constant reminder of Your steadfast love and faithfulness. Thank You, Heavenly Father, for the assurance that as I trust in You, submit to Your ways, and seek Your guidance, You will lead me on a straight and purposeful path. With gratitude and love, I commit this day to You, trusting that You are always by my side. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Today's lesson is on Proverbs 3:1-8.
Lesson Context
The book of Proverbs is generally, mostly attributed to King Solomon. Its importance is in how it communicates what makes up a life of wisdom. All people can learn and apply the wisdom taught in the book of Proverbs. It is divided into five sections: an introduction to wisdom (Proverbs 1-9), the proverbs of Solomon (10:1-22:16; 25:1-29:27), the words of the wise (22:17-24:34), the words of Agur (Proverbs 30), and the words of King Lemuel (Proverbs 31). We know nothing about Agur or King Lemuel. The book has us listening to the teachings of a father to his son. With one exception, the poetic order of each pair of verses in today's scripture follows the same pattern. First, the father gives his son a negative command. Second, the father gives a positive command. Finally, the father concludes that section with a promise for his son.
One Law (verses 1-2)
This passage is set up as a father talking to his son. The son is told to "keep my commands in your heart." In the Old Testament, the heart refers to a person's inner being. The commands should become part of the son's volitions, emotions, and knowledge. A way to keep the commands would be to commit them to memory, and obey them. This reflects on the Law of Moses, where children are to honor their parents. A child who honors their parents is entering a life of wisdom. This will be a flourishing life, with relational harmony.
Two Virtues (verses 3-4)
Love and faithfulness are two key words in the Old Testament, especially regarding the attributes of God. Love frequently refers to God's loyalty and commitment to his people. Faithfulness conveys the idea of reliability. For the father speaking to his son, he wants to see his son's heart transformed. The son should do good actions that come from a heart oriented toward the virtues of mercy and truth. In the Old Testament, a person might bind something around their neck to show the importance and significance of that item to the wearer. The father's speech is interpreted as figurative language by our book. It is meant to highlight the extent that the son should go to in order to develop a life of love and faithfulness. The virtues are not to be hidden from the world. By having the virtues of love and faithfulness, the son will win favor. This means he will be held in high regard. Having a life of wisdom and character will not only win favor with God, but with other people as well. A good name and good reputation take time to develop. Not only do these things provide a personal benefit, but they are also avenues to honor God and reveal God to other people.
One Trust (verses 5-6)
Placing trust anywhere other than God can lead to futility or destruction. It does not lead to any lasting or eternal wisdom. Leaning on your own understanding can lead to pride. Only foolish people trust themselves more than the wisdom of the Lord. The Lord is worthy to be trusted because he is the source of salvation. To trust with all your heart is total commitment. It is all-encompassing. To submit to God means to know him and give him proper recognition for his activity in a person's life. It involves a willingness to yield to his will. God will all-knowing, all-present and all-powerful. We can trust that he will provide his people with a wise and righteous path. This is not a promise of an easy life. However, God has provided us with an avenue of peace through Christ Jesus.
Two Actions (verses 7-8)
The opposite of trusting and submitting to God is to consider one's wisdom as the final say. God is the source of wisdom. He desire to give his people wisdom through his Spirit. As a result, God's people should avoid lives of pride and arrogance. Instead, they should seek wisdom from God. The example of King Solomon provides us with a warning based on this verse. He received wisdom from God. However, he failed to follow God's wisdom. As a result, he experience heartache and the promise of consequences that would extend past his lifetime. To fear the Lord involves having an attitude of reverence, awe, wonder, faith, and trust in the Lord. It is impossible to be wise in one's own eyes and simultaneously fear the Lord. Instead, an attitude of humility is required. The last verse of the passage is difficult to translate because it is a Hebrew idiom. The King James Version translates the verse as, "It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones." Our book says that this is a more accurate translation of the original Hebrew. This may be a literary practice wherein one part of the body represents the whole. A life of humility, fear of the Lord and obedience to him results in the complete wholeness of a person. We know that a person's status in life does not correlate to the quality of a person's heart. While people may experience wholeness and health in part while on earth, scripture promises a time in the future when God, "will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away," (Revelation 21:4).
Conclusion
It is easy for believers to sy that we are seeking the wisdom of God when in actuality, other voices influence our lives and shape our perspectives. If we're filling our lives with human ideas rather than the wisdom of God, which will have more influence?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for the inspired wisdom you have revealed to us in scripture. Help us to listen and follow your word. Show us how we can be more attentive to the direction of your Spirit so that we might have lives of wisdom. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Questions for Discussion
Benediction
Today's benediction is from the English Standard Version.
Next week's lesson will be on 2 Chronicles 20:13-20.
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