Numbers 31 - 32

Moses was instructed to go to battle against the Midianites, and that after the battle he would come to the end of his life.  The kings of Midian were defeated, as well as Balaam the prophet who had brought trouble upon them by his pronouncements to king Balak.  The spoils of war were carefully considered, so that no further contamination would be brought into the population.  Several of the tribes petitioned Moses to have their inheritance on the eastern side of the Jordan.  Moses granted their request on the condition that they would not fully receive their land until they had assisted their fellow countrymen in the battles to conquer the western side of the river.

Numbers 28 - 30

God laid out the requirements for the different sacrifices that were to be offered by His people.  Some were offered daily, some each Sabbath, others once a month or once a year.  During the holy days of the nation other offerings were to be made.  Each one pointed to the fact that God was the holy leader of His people and they were following His instructions to remind themselves of their position in His economy.  Even the feasts, joyous occasions that they were, were intended to be reminders of God's provision for His people.  The promises He made to His people were serious ones that would be kept.  The promises the people made to one another were also to be kept.

Numbers 26 - 27

The people were numbered, so that the land could be divided proportionally.  The total census of those able to defend the nation numbered 601,730.  These were all people who were under the age of 20 when the nation decided to NOT enter the Promised Land when God wanted them to do so.  Of that generation, only Joshua and Caleb (and Moses) remained alive.  Joshua was then selected to be Moses' successor.

Numbers 23 - 25

Balaam speaks out at the request of king Balak.  Instead of the expected curses against Israel, Balaam pronounces blessings three times; he tells Balak that he can only pronounce what God gives him to say about the nations.  Balak finally learns from Balaam that Israel will be weakened only when they neglect to follow and worship God as He has commanded.  When Israel begins to sin, a plague breaks out against the nation.  A zealous man named Phineas takes drastic action to stop the sin-caused plague and halts the divine punishment in its tracks.

Numbers 21 - 22

The nation of Israel continues their way through the wilderness, complaining as they travel.  They are not permitted into some areas, due to the way God had provided for them in the past.  One king, Balak, even went as far as bringing in a consultant named Balaam to advise him on how to destroy the Hebrews through passive means.  God instructed Balaam to only give the advise that He wanted passed to Balak.

Numbers 18 - 20

The privilege enjoyed by the Levites (working in the physical presence of God) brought extreme responsibilities as well.  They stood bearing the iniquity of the people before God, they ministered with a real sense of the cost and stench of sin.  They were responsible for making the sacrifices necessary for the appeasement of God's offended holiness.  They would be supported by the offerings of the people, but those offerings were first offered to God.  The procedure for atonement was laid out, providing a way to restore pure fellowship with an offended God.


As the journey continued, Miriam and Aaron died.  Moses kept leading a people that wanted to be selfishly served.  Due to his own sin, Moses was denied the blessing of entering the Promised Land.  Due to their reputation, other kingdoms would not extend favor to the wandering Hebrews.  Sin continued to exact a higher price than originally estimated.

Numbers 16 - 17

Opposition continued to mount against God.  This time, the opposition was to the leadership God established in Moses and Aaron.  One of the priests, Korah, accused Moses of overstepping his authority; his argument was that if the entire nation was holy to God, why was Moses needed?  When Moses sought to address the accusation, these men refused to meet for reconciliation.  God demonstrated clearly that Moses and Aaron were His choices for leadership by allowing the earth to open up and destroy only those who were in opposition to His leadership.  Two hundred fifty men were killed that day!


One would think that the people would respond humbly to Moses' leadership and God's authority. They did not.  They accused Moses of "killing the people of the Lord." God immediately summoned Moses and Aaron for instruction, and told them to (my paraphrase) "step a little to the left ... a little more ... see, I don't want you harmed when I destroy these people."  Moses and Aaron immediately begin interceding for the preservation of God's people (the very people accusing him of murder and tyranny).  God destroyed 14,700 people before the plague was halted.  God takes His authority seriously; He will not share His glory with anyone!  He demonstrated quite clearly that Moses and Aaron were His representatives.  One would trust that the people had learned this valuable lesson.  Only time would tell.

Numbers 14 - 15

The people do not like the prospect of facing formidable foes in Canaan.  They weep, mourn and plan to elect a leader who will take them back to Egypt.  While Moses and Aaron plead before God for the people, Joshua and Caleb (the two spies convinced that victory was possible) attempted to encourage the people with reminders of God's protection and faithfulness to show them favor.  Moses asks God to not slay the people for their unwillingness to obey; and God promises that those who refused to go where He lead would not enter the promised land.  Only Joshua and Caleb would survive among those who were over the age of 20.  For the next forty years, the nation would wander through an area that would have only taken several weeks to traverse in a straight line.  In the mean time, God continues laying out the laws and regulations that would govern His people.

Numbers 11 - 13

The journey of the Hebrews was filled with wonderful provisions from the Lord.  Yet, there were still those who complained that all was not to their liking.  Some remembered the foods of Egypt and longed for what they considered to be "better provisions" than what God had given.  God provided for them, yet punished them for not trusting His supply.


The complaints also came from others in leadership.  Moses' siblings spoke out against his leadership; God promptly cursed Miriam with leprosy.  Moses prayed for her healing and restoration - what an example of how to treat those who mistreat you!


Men were also sent to perform a reconnaissance mission on the land of Canaan.  The reports brought back spoke of a land that was plenteous in what it could provide materially.  Many of the spies reported formidable enemies in the land and suggested that the small band of Hebrews would be easily defeated.  Two spies, Joshua and Caleb, spoke of how the Lord would provide for even the defeat of these impressive enemies.  The nation was faced with a choice.

Numbers 8 - 10

The Levites were presented to the Lord and ceremonially cleansed.  A system was established to call the nation for important matters and quickly disseminate instructions.  After a prolonged period encamped at Sinai, the Hebrew nation left and began wandering through the wilderness on their way to the Promised Land.  God guided them by day with a cloud, and by night with a pillar of fire.

Numbers 7

The leaders of the priests offered sacrifices for themselves and the people of Israel.  In this way the tabernacle and its leaders were dedicated and consecrated for God's use.  Moses would enter the tabernacle and speak directly to God.

Numbers 5 - 6

God continues to give His commands for the social structure of Israel.  The procedures for judging the faithfulness of a spouse are given; as well as the rules for making, keeping and fulfilling vows made to the Lord.  The famous words of blessing are also given:  "The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace."

Numbers 3 - 4

Aaron's sons are named and their commissioning to the priesthood is recorded.  They would stand for the firstborn of the nation that God commanded were consecrated to His service due to His deliverance of them from Egypt on the night that the firstborn were slaughtered by the Angel.  The 2,750 sons of Kohath were responsible for the care and transportation of the holy items in the tabernacle  The 2,630 sons of Gershon were responsible for the care and transport of the curtains and coverings of the tabernacle structure, while the 3,200 sons of Merari cared and transported the hardware used to erect the tabernacle.

Numbers 1 - 2

Moses is told to take a census of the people, to determine how many are eligible to fight in battle for the nation.  The report brought back a total of 603,550 men of fighting age.  The nation was then divided into groups and placed in quarters around the central component of their encampment - the tabernacle of meeting.  Everything had a place; and God expected them in their places.

A return to blogging ...

I have returned from my recent blogging hiatus.  Those familiar with me and my ministry were aware of my whereabouts.  I was out of the country for approximately 3 weeks, working alongside 2 missionary families that our church considers part of our church family.  In the coming days, perhaps I will post pictures and thoughts from my journey to Chile.  It was transforming, to say the least.  I returned home with a greater desire to pastor well and champion the causes of our missionary families spread across the globe.

Leviticus 25 - 27

God continues to outline His plans for the Hebrew society.  Every detail is described, nothing is left to speculation.  God demands that His holiness be respected, reverenced and even celebrated by His people.  He used elaborate ceremonies and rituals to remind His people that they were powerless to do anything without His help and assistance.  Their actions to one another were to be reflections of His dealings with them.  If they would keep His ordinances, all would be well with them.  If they chose to disobey, He would exact justice on them for their failure to respond properly to Him.  All aspects of life were to be reflections of God's holiness and greatness.

Hiatus

After almost 2 years of daily blogging, Know~Be~Do will take a 3-week hiatus.  All is well; I am just putting myself out of the reach of (most) technology for a while.  I will keep journaling my daily Bible reading, it just won't be available online.  When the blog resumes, I won't be "back-filling" to maintain continuity.  So, if you read this blog regularly; I'll see you in  about 3 weeks.

Exodus 7 - 9

Moses continues to struggle with his calling to Pharaoh at God's command.  He is given several signs to demonstrate to the Pharaoh that he is indeed a messenger from God.  Pharaoh was unimpressed with these indications and refused to release the Hebrews.  God directs Moses to pronounce a plague on the Nile River, turning it to blood for seven days.  Still the Pharaoh refused to listen.  A plague of frogs next overran Egypt, but left the ruler unmoved, as did subsequent plagues of gnats, flies, disease, boils and hail.  While Egypt suffered, the Hebrews living adjacent to them were unaffected.  Through all this, Pharaoh's heart was not softened, but became even more hardened against releasing God's people, the Hebrews.

Exodus 4 - 6

God proves to a doubting Moses that he is the one chosen to lead Israel out of Egypt.  Moses travels to Egypt and speaks to the Israelites and then to Pharaoh.  While the people are reluctant to trust Moses, Pharaoh is set against his labor force leaving and makes their tasks even harder to perform.  God promises Moses that He will deliver His people from their bondage and appoints Moses' brother, Aaron, as his spokesman.

Exodus 1 - 3

Israel continues to suffer in Egypt.  Jacob's family prospers, yet they are subjected to slavery.  When their population increases beyond Pharaoh's liking, he orders the execution of all male children.  Moses is hidden by his parents to escape execution, and is found by the daughter of Pharaoh.  He is raised in the palace of Pharaoh, yet chooses to side with the Hebrews and flees after murdering an Egyptian.  While 'on the run', Moses encounters God in a burning bush.  God instructs Moses that he will be used to lead the Hebrews out of their Egyptian captivity.

Genesis 48 - 50

Jacob, nearing the end of his life, blesses his children and grandchildren - again in fulfillment of the promises God made to him.  He pronounces that God will continue to demonstrate His faithfulness to His promises in the recurring generations.


After Jacob's death, the brothers again fear that Joseph will take revenge for their earlier actions.  Joseph demonstrates again and again that he has trusted God in the whole process; and that God has brought good out of intended evil.  Joseph dies in Egypt after a long life - one in which he sees three generations of his own children.  

Genesis 46 - 47

Jacob prepares to travel to Egypt, a place God has forbidden him to go in the past.  However, God appears and promises Jacob that not only will Jacob survive the journey, but he will see Joseph before he dies, AND his descendants will not live in Egypt forever.  The reunion with his long-lost son is joyful; and Jacob settles in the area of Goshen to tend sheep.  The famine Joseph predicted arrives, and the nation of Egypt survives because of Joseph's shrewd planning.  Jacob, knowing his time on earth is short, makes his son Joseph promise to bury him in the land of Canaan.

Genesis 43 - 45

Joseph's brothers ran out of the food that they had been given (they had tried to buy it but their money was returned), and they were reluctant to go back to Egypt.  Something about that government official was off-putting to them.  They finally convince Jacob to allow Benjamin to travel with them - Judah pledges his own life if anything happens to Benjamin - and they make their way back to Egypt.  Joseph, seeing all his brothers again, is overcome with joy and invites them to dine with him.


Before they return to Canaan, Joseph instructs his servants to once again place the money back in the sacks of grain, as well as hiding his own silver chalice in Benjamin's luggage.  He then has his brother detained under charges of theft and - just as he knew it would be - Benjamin is "found" to be the culprit.  Judah pleads for the life of his brother, displaying a genuine concern for his siblings and father that was not evident years prior.


Joseph dismisses every one of his servants so he can deal with these foreigners in solitude.  There, he discloses his true identity to his brothers.  Far from a tearful, joyful reunion, his brothers are distressed.  Their brother - whom they sold into slavery - now has the power of life and death over them.  Joseph quickly assures them that God has allowed all the past years to take place so that their family could be preserved.  He sends for his father and secures housing, lodging and provision for his family.  Hearing the news that Joseph is alive is almost too much for old Jacob to bear; but he rejoices at God's provision.

Genesis 41 - 42

Pharaoh's sleep is interrupted by a disturbing dream.  None of his astrologers or magicians could interpret it ... until the chief butler recalls a young man he met in prison that was extraordinary in his ability to interpret dreams.  Joseph is sent for, told the dream, and quickly tells Pharaoh that God is able to interpret the dream.  Pharaoh has been warned in his sleep to prepare for coming famine by storing grain in the years of plenty.  Pharaoh promotes Joseph to oversee the collection and storage of grain, making him answerable only to Pharaoh in every matter.  Joseph marries and begins a family of his own.


Meanwhile, Jacob's family feels the pressure of the famine and looks to Egypt for provision.  The ten brothers (all his sons minus Joseph and Benjamin) travel to Egypt where they meet - unknown to them - Joseph.  Joseph accuses them of being spies and asks for one of the brothers to be held in security while the youngest brother is brought to verify their claim to all be the sons of one man.  Reuben decides that this is all occurring because of their actions to their brother many years ago.  He communicates this to his brothers, unaware that his offended brother is standing within earshot and can understand every word they say!


The brothers return to Canaan, finding on their arrival that their money has been returned in the grain they have brought with them.  They are not sure what this means, but fear that they are being set-up for some great calamity.  Jacob is reluctant to let any more sons travel out of his sight.

Genesis 38 - 40

Jacob's son, Judah, is blessed with a large family.  However, his children do not follow the ways of God.  One after another, they fall into sin and are punished.  Judah himself is found to be immoral and companying with harlots.  The family, though large, is in turmoil.


Joseph, on the other hand, prospers in Egypt.  Potiphar, who bought him from the slave traders, places him in a position of high authority - a position Potiphar's wife tries to exploit for her own wanton desires.  She accuses Joseph of attempted rape and has him thrown into prison.  In prison he continues to prosper and is soon the head trustee.  He interprets the dreams of Pharaoh's servants, yet they do not ask for Joseph's release when given the opportunity to do so.

Genesis 35 - 37

Jacob returns to Bethel, the place where he wrestled with God, and worships there.  His beloved wife, Rachel, dies in childbirth and is buried.  The final number of Jacob's sons is twelve.  Isaac dies at the age of 180 and is buried by his sons, Jacob and Esau.


Esau's family greatly multiplied and formed a mighty nation named Edom.  God continued to bless the promises made to Esau's father and grandfather of a large and prosperous heritage.


Jacob's favored son, Joseph, is despised by his brothers because of the favoritism showed to him as well as the claims continually made that the entire family would bow in reverence to Joseph.  The brothers sell him into slavery and tell Jacob that Joseph was killed by wild animals.  The slave traders eventually sold Joseph in Egypt to an official of Pharaoh named Potiphar.

Genesis 32 - 34

Esau and Jacob meet and Jacob plans to attempt reconciliation with his brother.  He hatches a plan to parade his wealth before his brother in an attempt to impress him and distract him from the revenge surely to be planned.  In the midst of these preparations, Jacob wrestles with the Angel of the Lord and will not cease until God promises to bless him.  In the process, his name is changed to Israel "prince of God."


Jacob and Esau meet and a reconciliation of sorts is effected.  Jacob's daughter is defiled by some local men and her brothers (Jacob's sons) take exacting and furious revenge on the men and their families.

Genesis 30 - 31

Jacob continues to have sons with his wives and his wealth increases - as does the wealth of his father-in-law.  A disagreement develops between Jacob and his father-in-law, and Jacob leaves abruptly.  Laban, Jacob's father-in-law, pursues after Jacob and the two parties resolve to leave one another alone for their mutual good.

Genesis 27 - 29

Isaac's son, Jacob, having already bought his brother's birthright for a bowl of soup, now tricks his father into giving him his brother's blessing as well.  Esau, furious with his deceiving brother, vows revenge and Jacob flees for his life.  Jacob travels to the land of his mother to find a wife.  Along the way, God appears and confirms that the blessings promised to Abraham and Isaac would be extended to him as well.  Jacob serves in that land for 14 years, acquiring two wives (due to the treachery of his father-in-law, the deceiver was deceived!) and begins a family.

Something totally different

At a recent mid-week service, the Bible study group I attend asked the question, "Why is it that whenever someone wins a ball game, they give credit to God; but you never hear about the person on the losing team who was also praying for a victory?"  I mean, have you ever heard someone say "I lost and want to thank God for that"?


I did last night.


Colt McCoy, a college senior and the University of Texas quarterback, was knocked out of play during the first series.  In less than five minutes, his hopes of leading his team to a national title evaporated.  How did he respond?  With class.  Well said, Mr. McCoy!

Genesis 25 - 26

Abraham remarries after the death of his wife, Sarah.  More children are born to this patriarch, again fulfilling God's promises to him.  All his wealth, however, is given to his first-born son, Isaac.  Abraham dies at the age of 175.  His two most famous sons, Ishmael and Isaac, continue to see God fulfilling His promises to their father through their own descendants.  Isaac's wife, Rebekah, gives birth to twins named Esau and Jacob.  Esau, by rights the heir, sells his inheritance to his younger brother thinking that a good meal is more to be preferred.  When a famine strikes the land, Isaac attempts to flee to Egypt but God prevents him from doing so.  He travels to the land of the Philistines instead.  He attempts to perpetrate the same lie his father told many years ago in the same land - passing his wife off as his sister.  His lie is soon discovered.  Isaac spends time in the land digging wells, providing water for the area and becoming involved in land disputes when the native inhabitants try to claim the wells as their own.

Genesis 22 - 24

Life in Abraham's family is nothing if not interesting.  God tests Abraham's faith and asks him to sacrifice his long-awaited son, Isaac.  When Abraham proves himself willing, God intervenes and provides for an animal sacrifice.  Sarah dies and is buried; Isaac marries a distant relative that God indicates is exactly the wife He would have for him.  God continues to demonstrate His faithfulness to keep promises.

Genesis 19 - 21

The city of Sodom is visited, and Lot is found within her gates.  He invites the angelic visitors in and they share their news of coming judgment.  The populace of the city is incensed at this report and demand access to these visitors so that they may do to them what the name of their city implies about their behavior.  Lot and his immediate family flee the city, having been given a dire warning to not look back on the city.  Lot's wife ignores this command and is destroyed.  Abraham gazes in the direction of the cities from a far off distance and observes them burning.  Lot's daughters, convinced they are the last inhabitants on the planet, commit incest with their father to preserve the family line.  The nations of Moab and Ammon can trace their ancestry back to these actions.


Meanwhile, Abraham travels to the south and is found in Philistia - the land of a king named Abimelech.  Attempting to preserve his life, he claims that Sarah is only his sister.  God protects Sarah and Abimelech from committing sin, and Abraham leaves the area after his ploy is discovered.


True to God's word, Sarah and Abraham conceive and a son is born.  His name is Isaac - exactly what the prophetic message said it would be.  The birth of Isaac causes problems for Hagar and her son, Ishmael, who leave but are promised a great inheritance by God.  Abraham makes a covenant with Abimelech, and dwells in the land of the Philistines for quite some time.

Genesis 16 - 18

Abram tries to fulfill God's plans for his life his own way.  He fails miserably.  Although he makes numerous mistakes, God still makes a covenant with him that will bring blessing to Abram.  Part of that covenant involved changing Abram's name to Abraham; another part was the promise of a son born to his wife Sarah.  God makes this promise to Abraham personally. Abraham also intercedes for the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah - convincing God to not destroy the wicked cities if ten righteous people can be found among her citizenry.

Genesis 12 - 15

Abram is promised by God that he will be blessed if he obeys God.  Abram leaves his home country in order to journey to a place God would show to him.  Along the way, Abram demonstrates that he is learning to obey God unquestioningly; his failures are not final and provide necessary feedback to him that allows him to learn to trust God in all areas of life.  One of Abram's relatives, his nephew Lot, parts company with his uncle and is captured.  Abram rescues his nephew and encounters a priest who serves the living God.  God confirms His covenant with Abram and promises that his descendants would inherit a great land and possession.

Genesis 8 - 11

God keeps His promise to Noah and delivers him and his family from the flood.  The waters subside and Noah exits to a world totally unlike the one prior to the global devastation.  Noah's first response is to worship and praise God for His deliverance.  Noah and his family are blessed and charged with repopulating the planet.  Noah's descendants are the common ancestors of all alive today.  Noah's family grows and is scattered throughout the world due to the confusion of languages sent by God.  Eventually one family line produces a man named Abram.

Genesis 4 - 7

The family of mankind grows and increases.  The problems created by mankind also grow and increase.  Murder occurs between the first siblings; revenge and vengeance become common place occurrences; men are born, live and die - and in the process of just a few generations, mankind has gone from idyllic to constantly evil always.  God determines to destroy mankind, with the exception of Noah - a man who has found favor with Him - and his family.  A device of safety is prepared - an ark - and Noah, his family and samples of all living creatures are safely placed aboard prior to the destruction of the world's population through a global flood.

Genesis 1 - 3

Personal note:  the majority (99.5%) of the posts in this blog are my personal notes, thoughts, impressions of my daily Bible reading.  For 2010, I am reading through the Bible historically (in the order in which the books were written).


In short order, the accounts of creation and man's fall are given.  God creates a perfect environment for man to live, work and raise a family.  This proves to be beyond man's ability to maintain and he fails to live within God's guidelines.  When confronted with his error, he immediately blames God ("this woman YOU gave me").  God punishes him by banishing him from paradise and causing his labors to be painful and sweat-inducing.

Revelation 22

John vision concludes with the sights of the New Heaven, a fruitful place of joy and peace with God as the Supreme Sovereign.  A promise is given to John that the events will take place.  John utters his desire to see the events quickly come to pass, and assumes that all those who love the Lord as he does will desire the same.


As 2009 draws to a close, my desire is to see the Lord bring to pass all that He has promised to do.  "Even so, come, Lord Jesus!"

Revelation 21

John sees the creation of a new heaven and earth, crowned by the city of New Jerusalem.  The pinnacle of this masterwork is the presence of God with mankind and the banishment of death, sorrow, pain, and tears.  This city of New Jerusalem is called the bride of the Lamb and is described in beautiful detail.  Great care is taken to present this bride to her Bridegroom!  The only missing fixture is a place of worship.  There is no temple, nor is there any illumination source.  The sun and moon are extraneous; the Lamb illuminates the city and its inhabitants.

Revelation 20

Following the destruction of the beast and his followers, Satan is bound for 1,000 years while Jesus Christ reigns upon the earth.  After 1,000 years have passed, Satan is released and leads a short-lived rebellion against Christ.  At this point, all - living and dead - are judged.  All those not found in the Lamb's book of life are cast into a lake of fire to be eternally separated from the presence of God's blessing.

Revelation 19

A celebration occurs in heaven, a feast to honor the marriage of the Lamb.  In the midst of the festivities, the Lamb mounts a white horse and rides off to earth to claim final victory over the forces of earth.  The resulting battle proves a total victory for the forces of the Lamb.

Revelation 18

The city/state/nation of Babylon is destroyed, much to the consternation and chagrin of those who have had dealings with her.  The cause of the fall is the perpetual idolatry and sin against God committed by the inhabitants of Babylon.  The response to God's judgment should be repentance; but the inhabitants of Babylon refuse to repent, even though it means their own destruction.

Revelation 17

John is shown a vision of the destruction of a nation that seems to have total control over a majority of the world's power.  This nation is pictured as being drunk on the blood of the many slain under her regime.  God pours out His vengeance on this nation and destroys it completely.  The pieces are put together and God's plans set in motion to bring about His great purposes.

Revelation 16

The angels pour out their bowls of judgment on the earth resulting in widespread devastation but not in repentance. The judgments culminate in a great battle shaping up in a place called Armageddon.

Just a few words ...

As I type this, it is the day before Christmas.  Many will take time over the next 72 hours to reconnect with family, friends, loved ones and perhaps even strangers to share a meal, gifts or other pleasantries.  I know I am not the first nor last, so let me be the next to wish you a very merry and safe Christmas.  I trust you will also take time to assess your relationship with the One whose birth is commemorated.  Jesus was born so that His life, death and resurrection might be the perfect substitute for the rightly deserved penalty we each owe God for our sin.  The birth of One so great deserves remembering!


I trust you will also spend time at least considering those less fortunate this season.  Whether their situation is due to job loss, poor choices, addictions, evictions, death, disease or some other factor, may yours be a hand reached out in love and not drawn back in disgust or trepidity.  Both you and the one you contact will be better for the encounter!


Merry Christmas!  When the new year begins, the daily walk through the Bible will continue.  2010 will progress through the entire Bible in one year by taking a historical path - reading the books in the order they were written.

Revelation 15

John sees another vision of events taking place in heaven.  Angels carrying bowls of God's judgment prepare to pour out His wrath upon the earth.  Before they do this, God is praised for His holiness, mightiness, justice and worthiness of worship.  While God may punish the earth, He is just for doing so.  It is His creation and He may deal with it in whatever way He desires.  His actions prove that He has the authority and control over the universe.

Revelation 14

John sees the Lamb again, this time with the 144,000 protected ones previously mentioned.  They sing a beautiful song regarding their relationship with one another.  While this concert continues, angels fly with messages of the need for repentance and turning to God, as well as a message of the destruction of a great city named Babylon and words of warning to those who have given allegiance to the beast.  A blessing is pronounced on those who die for their faith.  John then sees a vision of Jesus Messiah who gives the order to begin reaping the harvest of earth - which results in a massive amount of bloodshed as the harvest is subjected to what is described as the wine-press of God's wrath.

Revelation 13

John sees a beast rise out of the sea and take power over the earth.  His power is extremely great and many worship him, declaring that none can stand against him.  The beast blasphemes against God and makes war against those that have turned to God.  Another beast emerges and lends aid to the first beast, causing the planet to worship the first beast by bringing down fire from heaven and compelling earth's citizenry to demonstrate allegiance to the beast by receiving his mark in their bodies.

Revelation 12

John sees a sign in heaven depicting a woman giving birth to the Messiah, and the attention given that birth by a great dragon.  The birth is not prevented, the dragon is expelled from heaven and begins to mount an insurrection in the short time he has remaining.  The dragon persecutes the woman who gave birth and those who resist are killed - yet God continues to protect the woman and her offspring who show their loyalty to the Child born to her.

Revelation 11

John describes two witnesses that travel throughout the city of Jerusalem, bringing the message of God to those living in the city.  These witnesses are killed and then resurrected three days later as a sign from God that their message was true and correct.  The seventh angel sounds his trumpet signalling the transfer of the kingdoms of the earth to the control of God Himself in the person of His Son, Jesus Christ.

Revelation 10

John sees an incredible vision, but is instructed not to reveal what was said or seen.  He would be charged with giving other revelation to people, but not concerning that specific item.  The revelation itself was sweet, but having to maintain silence about it made it bitter to John.

Revelation 9

The fifth angel sounds their trumpet, signalling the opening of a bottomless pit from which comes great smoke and pestilence that strikes those not belonging to God.  This plague lasts for five months, under the control of one called The Destroyer.  The sixth angel blows their trumpet and an army is released that kills 1/3 of the population through fire, smoke and brimstone.  Those left on the planet refuse to repent of their works and refuse to turn to God, preferring instead to try to outlast His wrath and fury.

Revelation 8

The seventh section of the scroll is opened and the result is a hush throughout heaven (a place normally echoing with praise and joy).  Shortly, seven angels appear each carrying a trumpet.  At the sounding of the first trumpet, 1/3 of earth's vegetation is destroyed.  The second trumpet sounds, resulting in 1/3 of the seas and oceans being destroyed.  The third trumpet brings destruction to 1/3 of the planet's fresh water supply.  The fourth trumpet results in the darkening of the planet's light sources - the sun is decreased by 1/3, 1/3 of the moon and stars are no longer visible.  An angel interrupts this ghastly concert to declare that the remaining trumpets will only bring further turmoil and destruction to the earth.

Revelation 7

John observes an angel preserving a large number of the children of Israel from the impending disaster.  12,000 from each tribe are given God's seal of protection (no small feat, since some of these tribes had their family records destroyed in the Assyrian invasion in the 700s BC).  John then sees a larger crowd, one that could not be counted for its size declaring the great salvation God has wrought and the glory He deserves for providing so great a salvation through His Son, the Lamb.  This crowd is identified as 'ones who come out of the great tribulation and washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb.'  God provides protection, but it is always by the same method - through the atoning sacrifice of His Son.

Revelation 6

The Lamb, having taken possession of the scroll, unfolds it piece by piece.  The first section reveals one who goes in peace to conquer the world.  The second section releases one who takes peace from the earth and creates global discord and warring.  The third section reveals a global collapse of the food supply and financial markets.  The fourth section sends out one to bring widespread death upon the planet - reducing the global population by 25%.  The fifth section outlines the cry of those who have been persecuted and killed for their faith, asking for God's vengeance to be shown to His enemies.  The sixth section is filled with disturbances among the galactic bodies - eclipses, meteors, earthquakes seem to be pictured - that bring world leaders and the general citizenry to fall into a panic.

Revelation 5

John is confronted with a vision that occurs in the throne room of Heaven.  A scroll, much like a land title, is presented in hopes that one would be found worthy to accept and inherit it.  None is found worthy, causing John great concern.  An angel comforts him, stating that One IS worthy.  When John looks to see this One worthy of inheriting the title to the universe, He sees not the promised Lion of Judah but a Lamb that appeared to be slain.  In a moment all is clear:  the Lamb slain IS the promised Lion of Judah that IS worthy of the honor and prestige of laying claim to the universe.  The rest of the book of Revelation demonstrates how this worthy Recipient takes possession of what is rightfully His.

Revelation 4

John relates the vision that God allowed Him to experience.  He was invited into the very throne room of Heaven; his description is fascinating and detailed.  Of all the items one could describe, John focuses on the centerpiece:  God's presence.  The angels are preoccupied with God's holiness and worthiness of worship.

Revelation 3

The church in Sardis received a message.  God was aware of their reputation as being alive and thriving; but the truth was that they were dead.  What they were claiming to do for God was not pleasing to Him.  Those who would not mend their ways would find themselves on the receiving end of God's wrath.  Those who did change would find God's pleasure displayed in their lives.


The church in Philadelphia was sent a message.  They were a church facing many opportunities.  They had remained faithful and would be kept safe from the impending problems that would also be faced.


The church in Laodicia was sent a message stating that they were neither hot nor cold.  Their lukewarmness was repulsive to God.  They needed to repent of their apathy and return to their original fervor for loving and serving God.  The church is given the invitation to allow God back into their midst to enjoy fellowship once more.

Revelation 2

A message is given to the church and pastor in the city of Ephesus.  God Himself is aware of their service, their tireless fight for the truth against error and their unswerving allegiance to His name.  They were also guilty of leaving their first love; they had allowed all they were doing to develop into cold ritual instead of warm loving service.  This church is encouraged to rekindle their love for the Lord and let that love be the motivation for their service.


The church and pastor in Smyrna was sent a message.  This church was not held in high regard by many in the community; but God says that His evaluation of them is much different.  Although they were facing suffering and testing of various degrees, God promises to reward their life-long faithfulness with life.


The church and pastor in Pergamos received a message.  They were located in a city known as a center for evil, yet they held true to the teachings of the Gospel.  Some of their midst had even died for their faith.  The problem in Pergamos was their tolerance of false doctrine - namely  mixing elements from society in with Christianity (we call it syncretism today).  This church is called to repentance in order to avoid the business end of God's battle sword.


The church and pastor of Thyatira was also sent a message.  This was a seemingly growing church, but they were allowing the wrong people to teach.  The made the teacher the wrong person was the subject of their teaching - namely that immorality and violation of conscience was approved by God.  God promised to remove this leader with illness and death to prove that He alone determines what is acceptable.  Those who are remaining faithfully loyal to God in this troubled church are encouraged to continue faithfully so that God may reward them.

Revelation 1

The last book of the Bible begins with the statement that the events described "must shortly take place."  As in most prophetic writing, 'shortly' is a relative term.  To be sure, there were events that did take place during the surrounding years of the book's being written; other events are still in the future some 19 centuries later.  The blessing promised to those who hear and follow the instructions is still available today.


John writes primarily to seven churches throughout Asia Minor.  These cities radiate from the metropolis of Ephesus and form a circle throughout the region.  More important than the location of the churches is the One Who addresses them - the Alpha and Omega (we would say today the "be all and end all").  Jesus Himself addresses John during his exile on the island of Patmos.  John sees Jesus in His transfigured glory and receives a message to these seven churches.

Jude

Jude, the half-brother of Jesus, writes a letter encouraging his readers to earnestly contend for their faith.  He reminds them that even those whom God has delivered from great bondage (for example, Israel from Egypt) are held accountable when they fall into sin and disobedience.  Jude is concerned because teachers have gained access to the believers and are spreading lies concerning Jesus and the glory of salvation.  Their motivation is not growth of the believer but growth of their own personality and portfolio.  They are described as rain clouds without rain, fruit trees without fruit and shooting stars - full of promise but woefully lacking in substance.  Those who follow Jesus are to remember that He spoke about this happening, and to lovingly remain anchored to the Truth of the gospel - the good news that Jesus, born of a Virgin according to the prophecy of God, lived a sinless life and died a substitutionary death in fulfillment of God's promise;  He proved Himself to be the promised Son of God and Messiah by rising from the dead three days later and now offers full forgiveness to those who will trust that He alone has accomplished what they could never accomplish on their own:  full reconciliation to God.

3 John

John writes a letter to a fellow believer named Gaius.  John's desire is to see Gaius continue to grow in the Lord - and asks that his physical health would be parallel to his spiritual health.  This follower of Jesus knows, loves and does the truth.  He cares for those who work in and among the body of believers, even among those whose motives for service are less than honorable.  Those who would use the body of believers for personal gain or their own reputation are not to be emulated.

2 John

The apostle John writes to readers about the love they should have for truth.  Truth is to be held up as the standard for life and living, the measuring standard for action and relationship, and the litmus test for fellowship and cooperation.  John anticipates seeing these readers soon, but desires them to know this information prior to his arrival.

1 John 5

John concludes his letter by reminding his readers that Christian love is displayed in genuine love for others.  Those who know God have a confidence that He hears them and answers their prayers.  They will keep themselves pure in their lives as a testimony to what God has done; and as a demonstration of their desire to live a life pleasing to God.

1 John 4

John encourages his readers to be critical in their thinking, not just blindly accepting everyone's testimony who claims to follow and love God.  In fact, many according to John are misleading people by their words.  Those who do love and follow God will demonstrate their beliefs by their love for others and their growth in their love for others.

1 John 3

The one who genuinely follows Jesus will be motivated by such great love to remain pure in their daily lives, knowing that one day Jesus will return and we will be completely like Him.  If we seek to remain in our fellowship with Him, we will keep our lives free from contaminants that cannot abide in His presence.  One's fruits (their deeds) show their roots (what is really at the center of their character).  This is why the world system is antagonistic to the things of Christ; at the center of the world's character is a hatred and disgust for the things of God.  However, at the center of God's character (and, by extension, His followers) is love for one another, a love that expresses itself in genuinely good deeds that please God and build others into what pleases God.

1 John 2

John reminds his readers that Jesus has dealt successfully with sin.  Those who encounter sin now need only ask for His assistance.  He then lists further benchmarks to test the relationship status between Jesus and one claiming to follow Him.  Obedience is the next test; the one seriously following Jesus will keep His commands.  Love for others is also a benchmark.  One cannot know and share the love of God while harboring resentment and hatred for others.  Love for the world and its attractions must not be part of the God-followers' life, either.  Several had left the group to which John was writing.  They demonstrated by their actions that their heart had never been transformed.

1 John 1

The apostle John writes to his audience so that they might rejoice in their relationship with God.  John had first-hand knowledge of experience with the Son of God, and he wants his readers to know that same joy.  Throughout this letter, he will provide numerous benchmarks that can be used to validate one's relationship with God the Father.  The first benchmark is lifestyle:  the person who claims a relationship to God and does not live a transformed life really knows nothing of a relationship to God.  The second benchmark is a perception of sin.  The one who claims to have no sin is fooling only himself.

2 Peter 3

Peter reminds his readers that though many may question God's ability to keep His promises, God is not bound by human timetables. Knowing He will return and reward those who faithfully wait for Him, followers will live accordingly.

2 Peter 2

Peter continues to warn his readers about false teachers who will seek to not only distort truth but mislead as many as possible. God does know them and their works and will not allow them to escape judgment.

2 Peter 1

Peter writes to those with the same faith as his - to remind them of the preciousness of that faith. It is a growing faith, a sustaining faith, a faith that will endure until life ends - as Peter is sure that his is about to. He reminds his readers that the Gospel was not a cleverly crafted deception, but a careful recounting of the Good News that Jesus from Nazareth has proved by His life, death and resurrection that He Himself is the God-promised Messiah.

1 Peter 5

Peter concludes his letter by encouraging the older followers of Jesus to carefully lead the less-experienced in their development. All should take careful notice of the seriousness of their relationship to their Messiah. He concludes with a reminder that those on the run are not alone. There are other believers throughout the Roman Empire!

1 Peter 4

Peter continues his argument for a transformed life by reminding his readers that they had spent enough time proving how wicked they were. Now it was time to demonstrate how great God's transforming power was! The life of the believer is to be spent in serious acknowledgment that God has done a great work. This life is not dour or bleak, just properly balanced between the sobriety of a holy God and the joy of a loving God. There will be confrontations with those who have not been transformed by the Messiah, Jesus; but even these confrontations can serve as evidences and reminders that God is at work and He will preserve His children from every attack.

1 Peter 3

The follower of Jesus who submits to those around them will evidence the transformation made by the Messiah of their life. Spouses will notice the difference, acquaintances will see the recreation made and God receives the glory. Those who suffer for following Jesus do so in an honorable fashion. Those who suffer for breaking the law ought to suffer the consequnces - their standing before God does not exempt them from obedience to man's statutes.

1 Peter 2

Even believers "on the run" (as Peter's audience was) need to grow. Peter encourages them to put away their former lifestyles and mature in their faith and its expressions. Believers are a chosen people; they must act accordingly - not establishing roots in the world system, but living in the world as travelers with a possession elsewhere. They are still subject to the laws of the land; but need not order their lives according to the priorities of the land. In all things, Christ is to be the Supreme Example.

1 Peter 1

Peter, one of three men to see Jesus in His transfigured glory, writes to those who have been scattered by the Roman government about the need to persevere and endure times of difficulty. He begins by reminding his readers of the great gift they possess: salvation and all its attending blessings. These blessings include an inheritance, the keeping power of God, a genuine faith, a growing character. Many have lived desiring to understand and appropriate this faith, but God has allowed them to possess it at this time in history so that He would be seen as gracious, good, powerful and mighty. Because of this, they are to live seriously and dedicated to following Him closely because of the great price paid for their redemption. To saints on the run, a message declaring their great value would be a large encouragement.

James 5

The rich are warned not to trust their riches to support them in the day when God brings them to judgment. Riches are not capable of purchasing favor with God. Those who suffer now should patiently bear under such trials; God is the Supreme Judge and will make a correct evaluation at the last reckoning. Prayer is stressed as vital to the life of the believer. Great things are accomplished through the avenue of prayer.

James 4

Controversy arises when folks seek their own well-being instead of the well-being of others. When these conflicting interests collide, disputes, battles and wars result. God, however, is pleased to show grace to those who put others first - the humble. All of life should be lived with God's plans in mind.

James 3

The one who follows Jesus will find one problematic element in his life that keeps him from being as effective and productive as he would like to be: his tongue. The tongue, such a small anatomical member, can be used for great help and tremendous disaster. The one who carefully keeps a guard on his words will prove to be wise indeed.

James 2

Following Jesus means evaluating people as He does. God shows no partiality; in fact, He chooses the ones that others would see as meaningless and expendable to be the ones in whom He most magnificently displays His glory. We follow His example when we show the same love we give ourselves to our neighbor. Truly, just saying we follow Jesus is not enough; there must be actions that bear out our verbal acknowledgment. Verbal assent is good, as far as it goes, and it is that much more impacting when displayed through transformed actions of service and love.

James 1

James, the first book of the New Testament to be written, addresses an issue that has been ever present in the church - testing and trials. James writes to be thankful for such afflictions, as they present opportunity for character to be developed. God will generously provide wisdom to those who ask for assistance in times of testing so that the follower of Christ can be stable in turbulent times. Those who endure temptations are promised rewards for their labors. James quickly reminds his readers that God is not the creator of temptation. Every gift He gives is good and perfect due to the simple fact that He is the Originator of the gift. Our response is to be obedient to His commands and directions, allowing the Holy Spirit to change us into the likeness of Jesus, the Christ who died for us.

Hebrews 13

The fact that Jesus is superior must have implications on the way one lives presently. His superiority motivates unifying love, hospitality, purity in relationships, contentment and boldness. The superiority of Jesus as King prompts those who follow Him to pray for their earthly leaders in a way that might not seem possible otherwise. Jesus' superiority grounds one's belief in Truth and protects them from being mislead by error. Prayer is a vital part of the life affected by Jesus, for it is through His power that His followers find strength for their daily lives.

Hebrews 12

With so many examples set for us, we also should live in a way that demonstrates our faith in Jesus as superior to all others. He endured far more than any other will or can endure, and as God's children some discipline is expected as it eventually yields the rewards of a great inheritance. Those who follow Jesus with their lives must do so carefully, to experience life the way God intends it to be experienced. This is accomplished out of a reverent heart attitude; God removes all other baser motivations and purifies them with His holiness.

Hebrews 11:20 - 40

Because Jesus is superior, faith in Him enables people to experience spectacular life situations. The history of Israel is resplendent with accounts of people whose faith in God and His promised Deliverer produced actions that pleased God and resulted in extraordinary feats. Dead raised to life, nations rising from a barren couple, a national Golden Age sparked by a shepherd boy, the list goes on. And yet, there is something even better prepared for those who continue to demonstrate their faith ... because what the folks of old anticipated has now arrived and been validated as the promised Deliverer - Jesus, the Messiah.

Hebrews 11:1 - 19

How important is faith? Faith is described as a confidence in what is not seen. It is through faith that the patriarchs obtained a 'good report' of their lives through their faith-motivated actions. It was through faith that these mighty men and women of old did remarkable works and saw amazing circumstances in their own lives. It was through their faith that God was able to accomplish what He had promised that these heroes lived such incredible lives.

Hebrews 10:19 - 39

Because Jesus suffered on our behalf, and because His suffering has purchased salvation for those with their trust in Him alone, believers can approach God boldly and without fear of punishment for their transgressions. His sufferings make our peace possible. Those who continue to live a life characterized by sin will receive greater punishment for neglecting to appropriate so great a salvation when it was offered.

Hebrews 10:1 - 18

The law could never make those who kept it perfect, as it was a shadow of what was to come. The best it could do was point out how much a person had failed to keep it. The sacrifices made were evidence that the law was correct - all had failed to keep the law perfectly. When Jesus arrived, the law was shown to have been kept perfectly by Him. By His absolutely perfect life He obtained the authority to make Himself an offering for sin by which the laws demands would be completely met. His one offering accomplished more than all the offerings made prior to and since His action. The action of Jesus provides remittance for sin, making further payment unnecessary.

Hebrews 9

The tabernacle is described. The furniture and fixtures are explained, as well as the procedures taken by the priests offering the sacrifices. It is explained that the entirety of the process was symbolic of what God was doing and promising to do. When Jesus came as The High Priest, He offered a sacrifice (His own blood) better and superior than the blood of bulls or goats. His sacrifice brought not just atonement but redemption. This testament (a legal term describing a document put in force at the time of death) is effective because of Jesus' death on the cross. It was necessary for Jesus to die in order to put God's plan into 'motion,' so to speak. His death bore the sins of many and served as the judgment necessary for sins' effect. Those who trust in His payment of their sin-debt find forgiveness and salvation.

Hebrews 8

The point being made up to this point is simple: Jesus is far superior to the priests of old times. He is The High Priest, as He has mediated a better covenant than the one presided over by the former priests. This new covenant has been promised by God, as the old covenant was broken by mankind. The new covenant will supersede the former one and cause it to vanish away.

Hebrews 7

Jesus is referred to several times as a priest "after the order of Melchizedek." That term is now explained. Melchizedek was the priest of God and king of Salem to whom Abraham gave a tenth of his treasure. Melchizedek can be translated "king of righteousness" and his title "king of peace." This great person received tribute (tithe: a tenth) from as great a leader as Abraham. Those who are his descendants (the Jewish priests and Levites) continued to receive offerings from the hands of those who worshiped and offered them up to God. Because Christ is a High Priest after the order of Melchizedek, He is able to receive those offerings without having to offer them to one higher than himself. Jesus is the pinnacle of priesthood: He receives offerings without needing to offer them higher; yet He offers Himself on behalf of the people's sins. By doing so, He saves to the uttermost, not just passes along an annual atonement.

Hebrews 6

Because of the difference Jesus makes in a life, a person who has been subjected to the transforming power of the Messiah is unable to return to his former lifestyle. Jesus makes a life-changing difference! God has promised, based on the most powerful element in the universe - Himself, that those transformed by Jesus will receive all that is due to them as His joint-heirs. How is this possible? By Jesus' position as our High Priest.

Hebrews 5

Jesus is uniquely qualified to be our great High Priest. God Himself validates the Messiahship and position of High Priest held by Jesus. It is through His suffering that Jesus proves His worthiness to intercede on our behalf before God. These are the fundamental teachings of the Gospel.

Hebrews 4

Jesus proves His superiority by providing the rest that God promises. Rest is not possible by any other means; all others fail in their attempts to bring peace with God. God's Word shows us our true condition and lays us open to God's unbiased eye. Jesus, however, provides Himself as our High Priest, interceding on our behalf before God.

Hebrews 3

Jesus is held up as superior to Moses. Moses, the revered 'father and leader of the nation,' was great; but Jesus Christ is greater. The builder is greater than the building; and God demonstrates that fact to be true by building all things through the power of His Son, Jesus. The only proper response to God's working is to submit to Him; anything else is rebellion and folly. Those who rebel will be judged by God for their actions.

Hebrews 2

The discussion on Jesus' superiority continues. He is vastly superior to the angels, and is far above the place of men. All is in subjection to Him (and one day that subjection will be wonderfully and visibly manifested) so that He can redeem and provide what is necessary for the redemption of mankind. Jesus is superior because He faced all that mankind faces, yet faced it without sin tarnishing Him in the least.

Hebrews 1

Disclaimer: The author of the book of Hebrews is a subject for much debate. The focus of the book is NOT who wrote it, but the superiority of Christ Jesus over all other systems of thought and belief.

Jesus is the pinnacle of God's communication to mankind. God has revealed Himself to us through the person and work of His Son Who reigns, rules and lives from eternity to eternity. Scripture from the very beginning has been pointing to this fact, if we were only wise enough to comprehend it correctly.

Philemon

Paul writes a touching letter to Philemon, a church leader in the city of Colosse. This letter is one of redemption, restoration and love. A former slave of Philemon's, Onesimus, had embezzled funds and fled to Rome. In Rome, he encountered Paul who introduced him to Christ and the transforming power of the Gospel. Onesimus was returning to Colosse to reconcile with Philemon; Paul asks that they demonstrate the power of the Gospel in the way they interact with one another. Truly, the gospel is powerful.

Titus 3

Paul continues to admonish his colleague Titus regarding the personality and conduct of church leaders. The lives of those who lead are to be exemplary. They are not to be perfect; they are to show that God is continually transforming them into His image. The transformation is to result in works that please God and highlight His power to others.

Titus 2

Titus' responsibility in Crete was simple: demonstrate the difference the gospel makes in a life no matter what the age of the person affected. Older men and women were to demonstrate a maturity that balanced their advanced age. They were to serve as examples to the younger men and women of God-centered living, sobriety, and propriety. The minister was to use his very life as an example to others. Slaves were to demonstrate the life-transforming power of the Gospel through their responses to their masters. The Gospel was to show its transformational power and ability in lives - no matter who was impacted by it.