Judges 19 - 21

The chilling account of violence, murder and retribution is given.  A man travelling with his concubine escapes the advances of perverted men only to have them murder his concubine.  He sends a bloody message to the nation and rallies the troops to deal with this problem.  In the course of events, the tribe of Benjamin is almost obliterated due to their failure to deal with sin properly.  Only by God's grace is the family line preserved.  The book of Judges closes with the chilling assessment that "everyone did what was right in his own eyes."  Not a good way to manage any society.

Judges 16 - 18

Samson's incredible power is limited by his weakness for women.  Many times in his life he was brought low due to his associations with women of questionable character and reputation.  His dalliances with Delilah brought him to slavery.  Yes, he destroyed many Philistines in his death; but what a price to pay for low moral character.
Because there was no governing law in the land (all did what they thought best) some decided that worship could be conducted the same way.  A man named Micah hired his own personal priest to travel with him.  Marauding bands raided Micah's home and stole his possessions, including the priest who freely gave his loyalty to these new masters.  The items taken from Micah's house became family idols for these marauders.

Judges 13 - 15

The Israelites continued to sin, so God allowed them to serve the Philistines for 40 years.  At the end of that time, a couple who were previously barren were given the gift of a son - a male heir for their family.  This child would be raised as a Nazarite - indicating he had been set aside specially for God.  The child, Samson, is born and grows to be a man of great physical strength, but subject to many physical temptations.  He marries a Philistine woman and uses that relationship to torture the Philistines who have enslaved the Hebrews.

Judges 10 - 12

Once again, the nation decides to turn from serving the God Who had faithfully blessed them and pursue foreign gods.  After repenting of their sin, God raised up a man named Jephthah to deliver His chosen people.  Jephthah was not above making his own mistakes, and he foolishly took a vow to sacrifice whatever first greeted him upon his return home.  He remained faithful to his vow, even though it meant sacrificing his only daughter.  Jephthah was not the last judge of Israel.  After his death, the nation continued their cycle of disobedience, judgment, repentance and deliverance.

Judges 8 - 9

Gideon made a complete defeat of the Midianites and the nation enjoyed rest while he lived.  He did, however, make a mistake in allowing his garments to be worshiped as a source of power.  His sons also ruled.  After his death, the nation returned to worshiping the Baals.  Further punishment from God resulted and the people soon tired of their oppressors.  God, once again proving His faithfulness, raised up another deliverer named Abimelech, who delivered the people.  Would they prove faithful this time?

Judges 6 - 7

Israel again disobeys God's commands; this time they are punished by the people of Midian.  When the people repent, God raises up an unlikely hero in the man of Gideon.  God again and again proves that He has enough power to win the battles, and it does not matter how many (or few) warriors are in Gideon's band.  Gideon's army wins a devastating victory over the Midianites and the land once again enjoys rest.

Judges 3 - 5

God did not want the nation to go through life without a realistic view of the damage sin causes.  Therefore, He did not totally eliminate all their enemies at once.  He left several nations for His people to remove from the land.  This would test their resolve to following God's commands and reliance on His strength.
The nation did NOT obey.  They fell into the hands of Mesopotamia for 8 years, until they repented and God raised up a man named Othniel to deliver them.  The disobeyed again and were put under the oppression of Moab for 18 years.  God delivered them from Moab by the hands of a man named Ehud.  After Ehud's death, the people returned to their sin - and God returned them to subjugation, this time from a Canaanite king.  God used two leaders, Deborah the prophetess and Barak (and a woman named Jael) to defeat the forces of Canaan.  The land then temporarily enjoyed a period of rest.

Judges 1 - 2

The nation begins conquering their individual territories.  However, they do not completely eliminate the people God had told them to expel from the land.  For one reason or another, the task went unfinished.  God voiced His displeasure and the people wept.  Joshua died at the age of 110.  The nation then began serving the gods of the peoples around them - in direct violation of God's commands, Joshua's edicts and their own historic judgment.  God delivered them into the hands of their enemies as punishment.  As the people repented and returned to God, He would raise up a deliverer who would lead them away from their sinful ways, practices and conquerors.  Too soon, though, the people would neglect to listen to the voice of this new leader (called a judge) and the process would repeat.

Joshua 22 - 24

With the formal land conquest ended, the tribes with inheritance on the eastern side of the Jordan returned to their families and land.  As they reentered their land, they made a careful and cautious choice to erect an altar.  This prompted the tribes on the western side to prepare for war against their infidel brothers.  It was soon explained that the altar was not to honor or worship a strange god, but to remind the eastern tribes that they identified with and owed their allegiance to the God served and worshiped on the other side of the Jordan.
Joshua delivers his farewell address, reminding the nation of what has been done for them and what remains for them to do.  He encourages them to take God's side on every issue; and they agree to his proposal.  Joshua dies, as does Eleazar the priest.  The nation was now in their land but without any clear human leader.  Would they remain faithful to God as they promised?

Joshua 19 - 21

The tribes of Simeon, Zebulun, Issachar, Asher, Naphtali and Dan receive their land inheritances.    Dan actually increased their land by conquering the city-state of Leshem.  Finally, Joshua received a special portion of land as his inheritance:  the city of Timnath-Serah.  The cities of refuge were appointed throughout the land, as were the cities in which the Levites would dwell.  At the end of the process it was clearly seen that God had kept His promises to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob - the land was theirs and their enemies were kept at bay.  All that God had promised had come to pass!

Joshua 16 - 18

Joseph's sons' descendants, Manasseh and Ephraim, receive their inheritance.  When they attempt to make a case for needing more room, they are told "There is plenty of room; just remove the current occupants!"  The task of conquest still remained.  Benjamin's offspring also receive their promised land.

Joshua 12 - 15

After defeating a litany of 31 kings, Joshua realizes there is still land to conquer.  He charges the nation to redouble their efforts in rousting the inhabitants, according to God's command. As he divides the land by tribe, Caleb (his partner from years ago) asks for a difficult patch of ground to conquer.  Old Caleb still longs to see God do extraordinary things with his life!

Joshua 9 - 11

The neighboring kings tremble at the thought of what Israel will do as they invade their Promised Land.  The Gibeonites, however, decide to try deceit as an insurance policy.  They trick the nation into an alliance before Joshua can discover that they actually ARE inhabitants of the land.  Joshua honors his covenant, yet makes the Gibeonites tabernacle assistants.


A fierce battle with a consortium of kings culminates with Joshua commanding the sun to stand still in the sky while the battle is fought.  Due to the lengthened day, a total victory is gained for Israel.  Joshua then leads the nation through the southern portion of the land before heading north in his path of conquest.

Joshua 5 - 8

For an invading force, the Hebrew nation of Israel went about things differently!  Immediately after entering the land, they (following God's commands) circumcised those males who had not yet entered into that covenant with God and then celebrated the Passover.  Usually an army makes sure they are medically fit BEFORE invading; but God continued to demonstrate His faithfulness in protecting His people.  The city of Jericho is defeated, though Rahab is spared as promised.  The city of Ai proves to be more difficult due to the sin of one citizen named Achan.  After sin is successfully and completely dealt with, the nation does defeat the city of Ai.

Joshua 1 - 4

God instructs Joshua almost immediately after the death of Moses.  His words are comforting to this newly appointed leader, reiterating the promises made to other leaders of the nation.  Continued blessing would be enjoyed if the people would remain obedient to God's commands.


The command is given to prepare for entering the Promised Land.  Spies are sent to investigate the entry points, and meet with a woman named Rahab who protects the Hebrew men and secures for herself amnesty from the coming destruction of her city.


The people cross the Jordan River at flood stage on dry ground by God's miraculous provision.  Large memorial stones are brought up from the river bed to stand as silent testimony to the mighty workings of God experienced by the nation that day.

Deuteronomy 32 - 34

Moses delivers his final address to the nation.  He reiterates all that God has given Him to say.  He reminds the nation of God's perfections and expectations for them.  He stresses the fact that they have not proven themselves to be as faithful as hoped in the past; and asks that fact to spur them to more diligent obedience in the future.  God had been so good to Israel, blessing them with protection, provision and His presence; yet the nation had responded arrogantly, not thankfully.  God would reward His followers and His enemies in due time, each receiving what was just for their actions toward Him.


Moses then blessed the people, each by their tribe.  He asked for God's continued favor and blessing to be their experience.  He then ascended into a mountainous place to which God directed him where he observed the Promised Land and then died.  Joshua was now the leader of the nation.  The people were at the verge of another great chapter in their history.  Would this chapter be any different with regards to their obedience to the Lord?

Deuteronomy 30 - 31

Should the nation depart from following God and then experience the removal of His hand of blessing, all would not be lost.  God even provided a way for His people to return to His good graces.  The nation now faced a choice:  would they choose life or death?  Moses urged his followers to choose wisely, and to choose life.  Joshua, Moses' assistant was then appointed to be his successor.  The law was appointed to be read every 7 years, to remind the people of their promises and God's expectations.


God then called Moses to complete his ministry and prepare to die.  He told Moses that the people would eventually rebel against Him; but that some would remain faithful.  Moses compiled his words and preserved them for the people.  He then gathered them together for one last address.

Deuteronomy 28 - 29

There would be tremendous blessings for those who obeyed God's commands.  They would be blessed in all areas of life.  Those who chose to disobey the commands would receive tremendous cursing.  Every area of life would also be affected; but instead of good, only evil would result.  Moses then began reviewing the covenant between God and His people.

Deuteronomy 24 - 27

Various laws are given to the nation governing marriage, disease, labor laws and inheritance dispersals.  Instructions are given to annihilate the Amalekites for their behavior towards the nation when they left Egypt.  As God's specially chosen people, they were to behave with utmost care.  They were to carefully inscribe the laws on pillars of stone.

Deuteronomy 21 - 23

More societal instructions are given to the nation.  Procedures for resolving unsolved murders are outlines, the proper handling of war prisoners, laws governing inheritances - even the steps to take with rebellious children are spelled out.  God did not desire for His people to live in ignorance of what He expected.  Moral codes were given in detail to ensure that proper relationships between the sexes were maintained.  Sanitation practices were given so that the health and well-being of the people would not be hindered.

Deuteronomy 17 - 20

God takes His holiness seriously.  Those who transgress His holiness are to be punished.  God lays out for His people the steps to be taken against those who commit specific sins - and even provides for cases too difficult to decide.  When the time comes for the nation to have a king, God prescribes activities for the monarch to avoid so that even then God is seen as the ultimate Sovereign power of the nation.  God promises to continue in His care for His people, providing them with leadership both politically and spiritually.  The Cities of Refuge are again mentioned, as are other tenants of the law meant to maintain harmony among the populace.  When the nation went to battle against another people, certain men were excused from military service.  Procedures for seeking peace are also outlined, for when peace was to be sought.

Deuteronomy 14 - 16

The nation of Israel would demonstrate their devotion to God in every avenue of their society.  Even such "normal" activities as mourning for the dead, foods enjoyed, giving of sacrifices, charitable giving, personal debt and employment practices were to be conducted in such a way that it would be very clear that they were submissive to God and His directions.  The celebrations of the national festivals were reviewed so that the nation would remember their significance.

Some Chilean Photos

I have received lots of questions this week regarding the 8.8 earthquake in Chile.  The short answers are as follows:  

• It was NOT where I was, but they DID feel it.
• Everyone there that I know, and most of the folks that they know are safe.
• My immediate contacts suffered some property damage, but otherwise are fine.
• Two churches in their sphere of contacts DID lose buildings.  
• We are pursuing options to best help our colleagues in Chile.  Stay tuned for more details.

So, without further delay, here are some photos from my trip.  Consider this a series of snapshots of Chile BEFORE the quake.  The country today is quite different from many perspectives.

Deuteronomy 11 - 13

Moses addresses his comments to those who had first-hand experience with God's dealings, not to their children who had only heard accounts of what took place in Egypt.  This older generation was well aware of the seriousness nature of not obeying God Who had delivered them from their bondage.  If they would teach their children to obey and honor Him, great blessings would follow.  The responsibility lay with them as much as with God; would they choose to follow, serve and obey God?  Would they abandon all the false gods encountered along the way through the Promised Land?  Would they cease from their self-serving style of living to worship God with the totality of their lives?  Would they refuse to listen to those who claimed to speak for God while propagating a message of falsehood?  Quite simply, would they follow God singularly?

Deuteronomy 8 - 10

Israel was instructed to always remember the good benefits God had provided them while they wandered through the desert wilderness.  Their memory was to encourage their continued obedience to God's continued leading and instruction.  The nation had not always obeyed God, and they were reminded about their failures, too.  They punishments they endured were also to encourage their future behavior.  The expectations for the nation are simply laid out for them:  fear God, walk in all His ways, love Him, serve Him, keep His commands.

Deuteronomy 5 - 7

Moses reminds the nation of the commands God gave them at Mount Sinai.  The consequences for obedience and disobedience are once again stated for the nation's consideration. They are reminded of the fact that God is unique; no other god is like Him and He will not share glory with any other.  The people He chooses to bless will be blessed for no other reason than because God has showed favor to them.

Deuteronomy 3 - 4

Moses recounts the journey through the desert, the defeat of kings, the division of the land, his own inability to enter the land due to sin, and an immediate plea for Israel to obey God's commands.  The nation is warned to give careful attention to God's instructions.  Following their direction will provide blessing; failure to obey will result in the removal of God's blessing.

Deuteronomy 1 - 2

Deuteronomy recounts for the nation the final addresses of their leader, Moses, prior to the nation's entrance into their promised land.  Moses reminds the nation that God's plan was for them to enter the land 40 years previously; but, due to their rebellion and refusal to trust Him, He allowed them to wander around the desert wilderness to learn to trust their God.  Each turn in the journey, each defeat of the kings in the area were proof of God's care and concern for His people.

Numbers 35 - 36

Cities are designated in which the Levites will live among the people they serve.  Cities of refuge, places where those guilty of manslaughter can receive a hearing, are also established.  The process for determining guilt or innocence is also laid out so that each case could be given a fair trial.  A process is also established for passing along a father's inheritance when no male heir is present.

Numbers 33 - 34

A summary is given of the nation's travel from Egypt to the very border of the Promised Land.  Now that they had arrived at the ending point of their journey through the desert, God gave careful instructions for the next step:  drive out all the inhabitants of the land and take possession of it for yourself.  Failure to do so would produce future problems.  The nation was given specific boundaries to restrict their movements; and a process was put into place to divide the land among the 9 1/2 tribes who would occupy it (2 1/2 took their land on the east side of the river, remember?).

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.