~ Sin Effects Your Body, Your Soul, and Your Spirit ~
Comment: The following was spoken by Jim Elliot prior to his leaving for the mission field, and is quoted from the book “JIM ELLIOT: A Christian Martyr Speaks to You” edited by myself.
Background: In early 1956 Christian missionaries Roger Youderian, Nate Saint, Ed McCully, Pete Fleming, and Jim Elliot lost their lives on “Palm Beach” on the banks of the Curaray River in a steamy jungle in Ecuador. They were brutally killed by an unreached tribe they had worked long and hard to reach with God’s love.
Many thousands of individuals have come to know Christ in a personal and living way and thousands of others have altered the direction of their lives as a result of the shocking massacre and the many articles and books written about it. Even the Auca Indians (Waoni) who thrust those fatal spears have seen a significant portion of their number come to know Jesus Christ.
“Well, what does sin do to your spirit? Just as sin is a cancer in the body, so it is corrosion to the soul, and to the spirit it is a callus. Sin makes us callous. Sin solidifies our attitudes.
“The book of Hebrews provides insight. Notice verse twelve of Hebrews chapter three. ‘Take heed, brethren, lest there shall be in any one of you an evil heart of unbelief and falling away from the living God. But exhort one another, day by day, so long as it is called today.’ Catch this. ‘Lest any one of you be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.’
“Hardened. Your spirit will become solidified. In other words, it won’t be pliable to the will of God. The will of God will have no effect upon your spirit. God’s desire for you will just bounce off your spirit like a rock. Sin can do that to your spirit, so that your mind can’t apprehend the truths of God. It will harden your spirit. It solidifies your thinking.
“Sin will just make you go out and grit your teeth against everything that is righteous. Sin can do that in a Christian. Therefore, Paul tells us, brethren, exhort one another while it is called today, lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
“Notice ‘the deceitfulness of sin.’ Sin is deceitful, that is it fools you. When you think you haven’t got any sin, mark it down, you’re sinning.
“You say, ‘I have no need to fight sin.’ Be careful, sin is a deceiver. Sin is an awful deceiver, a great deceiver. He’ll tell you he’s not there, and reside in your heart. He’ll harden your heart and say you’re becoming well-balanced and well-rounded. Sin will stifle your affections for Christ, and tell you that you’re growing up and maturing and getting away from kids’ stuff such as being sentimental about God. Sin will take your body and ruin it!”
To find out more about this significant book – JIM ELLIOT: A Christian Martyr Speaks To You – click here. To acquire a copy from Amazon click here.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Fragrance or Stench?
~ As an Obedient Christian You Will Give Off Both! ~
Our society uses many phrases which imply two opposites at once. Examples include: black and white, salt and pepper, sweet and sour, give and take, through thick and thin, and others.
The Word of God tells us that Christians who are fulfilling their calling emit both a lovely fragrance and an awful smell. An obedient Christian has a dual odor? We emit both a fragrance to our fellow pilgrims and a stench to some of those who oppose Christ. Putting it differently, there is a divine dissidence in the life of an obedient Christian! We are both inviting and repulsive! There is a built-in tension in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For example, someone has remarked that a good preacher should “comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.”
Fragrance ~ As Christians we are to become increasingly like Christ. “And the Lord—Who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like Him as we are changed into His glorious image” (2 Corinthians 3:18). As we become like Christ in first our thinking and later our consistent actions, we are a pleasing sweet-smelling offering to God Himself. “Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5:1-2).
Stench ~ As Christians we are to live in the world but not be of the world (1 John 2:15-17). Spiritually we are pilgrims passing through—not tourists! The world today is a place of great spiritual warfare where some find salvation in the name of Jesus Christ—the name which is above all other names! Others find the name of Christ and His work on the Cross as offensive—they do not want to accept the reality of their sinful nature. “For the message of the Cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18).
Summary ~ “In the Messiah, that is in Christ, God leads us from place to place in one perpetual victory after another. Through us, He brings knowledge of Christ. Everywhere we go, people breathe in the exquisite scent of Christ. And because of Christ, we give off a sweet fragrance rising to God, which is recognized by our fellow Christians—an aroma teaming with life. But some of those headed for destruction treat us more like the stench from a rotting corpse. What a great responsibility we have!” (2 Corinthians 2:14-16, emphasis added).
Our society uses many phrases which imply two opposites at once. Examples include: black and white, salt and pepper, sweet and sour, give and take, through thick and thin, and others.
The Word of God tells us that Christians who are fulfilling their calling emit both a lovely fragrance and an awful smell. An obedient Christian has a dual odor? We emit both a fragrance to our fellow pilgrims and a stench to some of those who oppose Christ. Putting it differently, there is a divine dissidence in the life of an obedient Christian! We are both inviting and repulsive! There is a built-in tension in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For example, someone has remarked that a good preacher should “comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.”
Fragrance ~ As Christians we are to become increasingly like Christ. “And the Lord—Who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like Him as we are changed into His glorious image” (2 Corinthians 3:18). As we become like Christ in first our thinking and later our consistent actions, we are a pleasing sweet-smelling offering to God Himself. “Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5:1-2).
Stench ~ As Christians we are to live in the world but not be of the world (1 John 2:15-17). Spiritually we are pilgrims passing through—not tourists! The world today is a place of great spiritual warfare where some find salvation in the name of Jesus Christ—the name which is above all other names! Others find the name of Christ and His work on the Cross as offensive—they do not want to accept the reality of their sinful nature. “For the message of the Cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18).
Summary ~ “In the Messiah, that is in Christ, God leads us from place to place in one perpetual victory after another. Through us, He brings knowledge of Christ. Everywhere we go, people breathe in the exquisite scent of Christ. And because of Christ, we give off a sweet fragrance rising to God, which is recognized by our fellow Christians—an aroma teaming with life. But some of those headed for destruction treat us more like the stench from a rotting corpse. What a great responsibility we have!” (2 Corinthians 2:14-16, emphasis added).
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Learn from Moses
~ Isaiah 40:31 Points the Way for Seniors ~
Have you ever noticed that the progression of activity in Isaiah 40:31 seems to be backward?
“But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31, emphasis added). The movement is from flying to running to walking! Normally we would think in terms of learning to walk followed by running. Flying comes later yet.
The passage can be thought of as a picture of the senior saints within the body of Christ. When they were younger they were actively “flying” on missions for their Lord. Over time their activities shifted to a run. As their bodies further wear down many are slowed to a walk—but that does not mean they are not useful. In fact much of the flying which is done in early life has little lasting value and many significant eternal accomplishments come with the wisdom of a slower pace later in life.
We often see this pattern around us. The Bible also provides examples of this progression.
Consider the life of Moses.
The Bible paints Moses in very human terms as he spends the first two-thirds of his life wrestling with his calling. Many are aware of the common summary of his life:
Moses spent his first 40 years thinking he was somebody—while the Lord kept him safe.
The next 40 years realizing he was a nobody—while the Lord humbled him.
Finally, he spent his last 40 years being used to benefit everybody—as he had become obedient to the Lord.
God used Moses in his final days as he served in at least three vital roles:
He was Commander-In-Chief of Israel’s army.
He was an Administrator of the nation’s internal affairs.
Finally, he was a Travel Guide as he brought the people to the plains of Moab.
Each of these roles in his later life required the wisdom that comes with experience.
Moses’ greatest accomplishments were late in life. Moses was Israel’s lawgiver. He was the first great prophet (Acts 7:37) and a type (picture) of the Lord Jesus Christ. Moses was Israel’s great deliverer.
Many would say that even today Moses stands out as the foremost man of the pre-Christian world. An anonymous writer put it this way, “Moses was one of the most colossal and majestic characters in the history of the world.”
There is much empirical evidence to conclude that God also considered Moses very highly. For example, consider that his life and work constitute about one-seventh of the whole Bible, or equal to about two-thirds of the New Testament.
CONTEMPLATE: God prepared Moses prior to using him. How has God prepared you? For what purpose?
Have you ever noticed that the progression of activity in Isaiah 40:31 seems to be backward?
“But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31, emphasis added). The movement is from flying to running to walking! Normally we would think in terms of learning to walk followed by running. Flying comes later yet.
The passage can be thought of as a picture of the senior saints within the body of Christ. When they were younger they were actively “flying” on missions for their Lord. Over time their activities shifted to a run. As their bodies further wear down many are slowed to a walk—but that does not mean they are not useful. In fact much of the flying which is done in early life has little lasting value and many significant eternal accomplishments come with the wisdom of a slower pace later in life.
We often see this pattern around us. The Bible also provides examples of this progression.
Consider the life of Moses.
The Bible paints Moses in very human terms as he spends the first two-thirds of his life wrestling with his calling. Many are aware of the common summary of his life:
Moses spent his first 40 years thinking he was somebody—while the Lord kept him safe.
The next 40 years realizing he was a nobody—while the Lord humbled him.
Finally, he spent his last 40 years being used to benefit everybody—as he had become obedient to the Lord.
God used Moses in his final days as he served in at least three vital roles:
He was Commander-In-Chief of Israel’s army.
He was an Administrator of the nation’s internal affairs.
Finally, he was a Travel Guide as he brought the people to the plains of Moab.
Each of these roles in his later life required the wisdom that comes with experience.
Moses’ greatest accomplishments were late in life. Moses was Israel’s lawgiver. He was the first great prophet (Acts 7:37) and a type (picture) of the Lord Jesus Christ. Moses was Israel’s great deliverer.
Many would say that even today Moses stands out as the foremost man of the pre-Christian world. An anonymous writer put it this way, “Moses was one of the most colossal and majestic characters in the history of the world.”
There is much empirical evidence to conclude that God also considered Moses very highly. For example, consider that his life and work constitute about one-seventh of the whole Bible, or equal to about two-thirds of the New Testament.
CONTEMPLATE: God prepared Moses prior to using him. How has God prepared you? For what purpose?
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
7 Word Pictures of the Word
The Bible is unique among all books and it describes itself in a variety of interesting ways.
Mirror ~ Mirrors reflect what is in front of them. They show what is there. They show us as we really are! “If you listen to the Word and don't obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don't forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it” (James 1:23 NLT).
Hammer ~ Hammers are used to pound and sometimes to break. The Word not only shows us who we really are but breaks our self-sufficiency. “Is not My Word … like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?” (Jeremiah 23:29)
Fire ~ A fire not only burns but melts. As the Words shows us as we really are, and as we have our self-content crushed, we find our heart melting. “Is not My Word like as a fire? says the LORD” (Jeremiah 23:29). “But who can live when He appears? Who can endure His coming? For He is like a blazing fire refining precious metal, and He can bleach the dirtiest garments! Like a refiner of silver He will sit and closely watch as the dross is burned away. He will purify …” (Malachi 3:2-3).
Sword ~ Swords are sharp and the Word of God is able to pierce our conscience. “For the Word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12).
Seed ~ Seeds are inanimate—dead things—which are resurrected into new life. The Word of God brings a new kind of life to the human soul. “You have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring Word of God” (1 Peter 1:23).
Water ~ Water is not only essential for life, but it cleanses and purifies. The Word of God cleanses the individual Christian and the Church of God. “Christ loved the Church and gave Himself for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the Word, in order to present her to Himself as a radiant Church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless”(Ephesians 5:25-27).
Light ~ Light not only dispels darkness but also exposes things. The Word of God exposes the darkness of sin and shows the path of salvation and source of abundant life. “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). “There is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we all will eventually have to give account” (Hebrews 4:13).
Mirror ~ Mirrors reflect what is in front of them. They show what is there. They show us as we really are! “If you listen to the Word and don't obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don't forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it” (James 1:23 NLT).
Hammer ~ Hammers are used to pound and sometimes to break. The Word not only shows us who we really are but breaks our self-sufficiency. “Is not My Word … like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?” (Jeremiah 23:29)
Fire ~ A fire not only burns but melts. As the Words shows us as we really are, and as we have our self-content crushed, we find our heart melting. “Is not My Word like as a fire? says the LORD” (Jeremiah 23:29). “But who can live when He appears? Who can endure His coming? For He is like a blazing fire refining precious metal, and He can bleach the dirtiest garments! Like a refiner of silver He will sit and closely watch as the dross is burned away. He will purify …” (Malachi 3:2-3).
Sword ~ Swords are sharp and the Word of God is able to pierce our conscience. “For the Word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12).
Seed ~ Seeds are inanimate—dead things—which are resurrected into new life. The Word of God brings a new kind of life to the human soul. “You have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring Word of God” (1 Peter 1:23).
Water ~ Water is not only essential for life, but it cleanses and purifies. The Word of God cleanses the individual Christian and the Church of God. “Christ loved the Church and gave Himself for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the Word, in order to present her to Himself as a radiant Church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless”(Ephesians 5:25-27).
Light ~ Light not only dispels darkness but also exposes things. The Word of God exposes the darkness of sin and shows the path of salvation and source of abundant life. “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). “There is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we all will eventually have to give account” (Hebrews 4:13).
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Law versus Grace
~ What a contrast! ~
Compare the law with the grace of God.
In summary, we find the law curses, while grace blesses.
The law kills; grace saves.
The law slays the sinner; grace makes him alive.
The law says “the wages of sin is death”; grace says “the gift of God is eternal life.”
The law prohibits; grace invites.
The law condemns; grace redeems.
The law says “do”; grace says “it is done!”
The law condemns the best; grace saves the worst!
The law says “do to live”; grace says “live to do.”
The law shuts every mouth; grace opens the mouth.
The law reveals sin; grace atones for sin.
The law says “the soul that sins shall die”; grace says “believe and live.”
The law proclaims “pay what you owe”; grace states “I freely forgive all.”
The law says “do or die”; grace says “look and live.”
The law provides knowledge of sin; grace provides redemption from sin.
“The law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ” (John 1:17).
The law demands obedience; with grace comes the power to obey.
The law was written on tablets of stone; grace is written in the human heart.
The law puts mankind under bondage; grace sets us free in wonderful liberty as children of God.
An example of the effects of the law is found in Exodus 32:28 where we find Moses coming down from Mt. Sinai to deliver the law. He found the people worshipping the golden calf. Scripture records that 3,000 individuals lost their lives at that time.
On the other hand, we find an example of grace in Acts 2:41 when Peter stood up on the Day of Pentecost to declare the message of salvation for the first time. At that time 3,000 individuals found new life through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
CONTEMPLATE: You and I live in the period of time labeled by many as the “Day of Grace.”
Grace is “unmerited favor” or getting something positive which is undeserved.
GRACE = “God’s Riches (given to us) At Christ’s Expense”
Compare the law with the grace of God.
In summary, we find the law curses, while grace blesses.
The law kills; grace saves.
The law slays the sinner; grace makes him alive.
The law says “the wages of sin is death”; grace says “the gift of God is eternal life.”
The law prohibits; grace invites.
The law condemns; grace redeems.
The law says “do”; grace says “it is done!”
The law condemns the best; grace saves the worst!
The law says “do to live”; grace says “live to do.”
The law shuts every mouth; grace opens the mouth.
The law reveals sin; grace atones for sin.
The law says “the soul that sins shall die”; grace says “believe and live.”
The law proclaims “pay what you owe”; grace states “I freely forgive all.”
The law says “do or die”; grace says “look and live.”
The law provides knowledge of sin; grace provides redemption from sin.
“The law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ” (John 1:17).
The law demands obedience; with grace comes the power to obey.
The law was written on tablets of stone; grace is written in the human heart.
The law puts mankind under bondage; grace sets us free in wonderful liberty as children of God.
An example of the effects of the law is found in Exodus 32:28 where we find Moses coming down from Mt. Sinai to deliver the law. He found the people worshipping the golden calf. Scripture records that 3,000 individuals lost their lives at that time.
On the other hand, we find an example of grace in Acts 2:41 when Peter stood up on the Day of Pentecost to declare the message of salvation for the first time. At that time 3,000 individuals found new life through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
CONTEMPLATE: You and I live in the period of time labeled by many as the “Day of Grace.”
Grace is “unmerited favor” or getting something positive which is undeserved.
GRACE = “God’s Riches (given to us) At Christ’s Expense”
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Follow Me
~ The Patch of the USAIC ~
The "Follow Me" patch is the emblem of the U.S. Army Infantry Center (USAIC).
Notice a few things about the emblem:
First, the familiar wording which our Lord used so often, such as in Matthew 4:19, where we read, "And He said unto them, follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." This is a most basic message of the Word of God; that men ought to follow Christ.
Second, notice the sword - a two-edged sword, recalling to mind Hebrews 4:12, "For the Word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword ..." Just as the Word of God should have a central position in any believer's life, so too the sword occupies the center portion of this emblem.
Third, notice the colors. First we have the blue background - blue is often used to represent the heavens. White is the other color, commonly associated with purity, a tradition which clearly has its origins in Scripture.
Fourth, we notice the only thing left is the emblem's unusual shape. This shape is only possible by the use of an unusual number of sides - seven. Seven can be clearly shown to be the Scripture's number for completeness, perfection, or more accurately "spiritual perfection."
The "Follow Me" patch is the emblem of the U.S. Army infantry headquarters. The Army is clearly the most fundamental branch of any country's armed forces! The infantry is the most basic component of any army! And this emblem belongs to the headquarters of the infantry! Isn't it amazing - the same nation whose motto is "In God We Trust" possesses the "Follow Me" patch at the very heart of its military forces.
NOTE: This short article was Robert Lloyd Russell’s first published Christian content. It was originally published in the April 1982 issue of At Ease magazine – a publication for military personnel.
The "Follow Me" patch is the emblem of the U.S. Army Infantry Center (USAIC).
Notice a few things about the emblem: First, the familiar wording which our Lord used so often, such as in Matthew 4:19, where we read, "And He said unto them, follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." This is a most basic message of the Word of God; that men ought to follow Christ.
Second, notice the sword - a two-edged sword, recalling to mind Hebrews 4:12, "For the Word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword ..." Just as the Word of God should have a central position in any believer's life, so too the sword occupies the center portion of this emblem.
Third, notice the colors. First we have the blue background - blue is often used to represent the heavens. White is the other color, commonly associated with purity, a tradition which clearly has its origins in Scripture.
Fourth, we notice the only thing left is the emblem's unusual shape. This shape is only possible by the use of an unusual number of sides - seven. Seven can be clearly shown to be the Scripture's number for completeness, perfection, or more accurately "spiritual perfection."
The "Follow Me" patch is the emblem of the U.S. Army infantry headquarters. The Army is clearly the most fundamental branch of any country's armed forces! The infantry is the most basic component of any army! And this emblem belongs to the headquarters of the infantry! Isn't it amazing - the same nation whose motto is "In God We Trust" possesses the "Follow Me" patch at the very heart of its military forces.
NOTE: This short article was Robert Lloyd Russell’s first published Christian content. It was originally published in the April 1982 issue of At Ease magazine – a publication for military personnel.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
God’s 4 Responses to Prayer
~ All of God’s Responses are Answers! ~
~ The following four terms used to describe God’s answers to prayer are from an unknown source and have been around for decades. ~
In this view of looking at God’s answers to prayer, an examination is made of three factors: the request, the petitioner, and the timing. Based on those three factors, God replies in one of four ways.
Situation One
The request is acceptable to God.
The condition of the petitioner is acceptable to God.
The timing is not right from God’s perspective.
“SLOW” is the answer!
“Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end” (Ecclesiastes 3:11-12).
Situation Two
The request is acceptable to God.
The condition of the petitioner is not acceptable to God.
The timing is acceptable to God.
“GROW” is the answer!
“He who isn’t listening to God finds that even his prayers are an abomination to God” (Proverbs 28:9).
Situation Three
The request is not acceptable to God.
The condition of the petitioner is acceptable to God.
The timing is acceptable to God.
“NO” is the answer!
“This is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us” (1 John 5:14).
Situation Four
The request is acceptable to God.
The condition of the petitioner is acceptable to God.
The timing is acceptable to God.
“GO” is the answer!
“If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you” (John 15:7).
COMMENT: There is more about prayer in the book “Thy Will Be Done On Earth: Understanding God’s Will for You” written by myself.
~ The following four terms used to describe God’s answers to prayer are from an unknown source and have been around for decades. ~
In this view of looking at God’s answers to prayer, an examination is made of three factors: the request, the petitioner, and the timing. Based on those three factors, God replies in one of four ways.
Situation One
The request is acceptable to God.
The condition of the petitioner is acceptable to God.
The timing is not right from God’s perspective.
“SLOW” is the answer!
“Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end” (Ecclesiastes 3:11-12).
Situation Two
The request is acceptable to God.
The condition of the petitioner is not acceptable to God.
The timing is acceptable to God.
“GROW” is the answer!
“He who isn’t listening to God finds that even his prayers are an abomination to God” (Proverbs 28:9).
Situation Three
The request is not acceptable to God.
The condition of the petitioner is acceptable to God.
The timing is acceptable to God.
“NO” is the answer!
“This is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us” (1 John 5:14).
Situation Four
The request is acceptable to God.
The condition of the petitioner is acceptable to God.
The timing is acceptable to God.
“GO” is the answer!
“If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you” (John 15:7).
COMMENT: There is more about prayer in the book “Thy Will Be Done On Earth: Understanding God’s Will for You” written by myself.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Strings and Wind Instruments
~ Do You Know About the Father of the Harp? ~
Our youngest daughter was a very competent harpist and consequently had many opportunities to perform. Dad quickly became the harp mover and was often referred to as the “father of the harpist.” I did not mind the title—in fact I felt it an honor as I moved her harp nearly 400 times to her various performing opportunities. Then she left our nest and went on to university training and increased her excellent skills.
I was only doing what any father would do. In Genesis we read of the first father of a harpist—Lamech. Lamech was the father of Jubal the harpist, and Jubal was the father of the harp itself!
Lamech was the father of innovative offspring. His firstborn, Jabal, was the first shepherd. One of Jabal’s brothers, Jubal, was an inventor and the father of the harp and the flute. Jubal’s younger brother, Tubal, was a metal-worker and apparently an inventor.
Jubal is only mentioned once in Scripture. “Lamech married two women, one named Adah and the other Zillah. Adah gave birth to Jabal; he was the father of those who live in tents and raise livestock. His brother's name was Jubal; he was the father of all who play the harp and flute. Zillah also had a son, Tubal-Cain, who forged all kinds of tools out of bronze and iron.” (Genesis 4:19-22, NIV, emphasis added.)
It is not hard to picture a camaraderie among these brothers. Perhaps Jabal enjoyed Jubal’s music while shepherding his sheep. Tubal may well have assisted Jubal in his making of prototype musical instruments.
These three brothers represent some firsts. We learn throughout the pages of history that instrumental music, especially from the harp and the flute, played a major role in the worship of God. Finally, the working of metal became very important in everything from weapons of war to transportation.
As I contemplate this passage, my heart is drawn to Lamech. He was from the line of Cain and in some of what we read his character comes into question. Still, I cannot help but wonder what kind of father he was. He raised three sons and a daughter to be useful members of society. I have lived long enough to know that some great parents are often disappointed in the direction their children have taken—and I am sure that many of us have children who turn out far better than we deserve. The most important role of any father is to raise his children in the knowledge of God and to lead them towards faith in Jesus Christ and His atoning work.
One way we do that is by seeking to model our heavenly Father to the greatest extent we are able. What a challenge! In the end we must leave the results to God—as we continually pray and support our children.
CONTEMPLATE: The harp is found throughout Scripture from Genesis to Revelation.
Our youngest daughter was a very competent harpist and consequently had many opportunities to perform. Dad quickly became the harp mover and was often referred to as the “father of the harpist.” I did not mind the title—in fact I felt it an honor as I moved her harp nearly 400 times to her various performing opportunities. Then she left our nest and went on to university training and increased her excellent skills.
I was only doing what any father would do. In Genesis we read of the first father of a harpist—Lamech. Lamech was the father of Jubal the harpist, and Jubal was the father of the harp itself!
Lamech was the father of innovative offspring. His firstborn, Jabal, was the first shepherd. One of Jabal’s brothers, Jubal, was an inventor and the father of the harp and the flute. Jubal’s younger brother, Tubal, was a metal-worker and apparently an inventor.
Jubal is only mentioned once in Scripture. “Lamech married two women, one named Adah and the other Zillah. Adah gave birth to Jabal; he was the father of those who live in tents and raise livestock. His brother's name was Jubal; he was the father of all who play the harp and flute. Zillah also had a son, Tubal-Cain, who forged all kinds of tools out of bronze and iron.” (Genesis 4:19-22, NIV, emphasis added.)
It is not hard to picture a camaraderie among these brothers. Perhaps Jabal enjoyed Jubal’s music while shepherding his sheep. Tubal may well have assisted Jubal in his making of prototype musical instruments.
These three brothers represent some firsts. We learn throughout the pages of history that instrumental music, especially from the harp and the flute, played a major role in the worship of God. Finally, the working of metal became very important in everything from weapons of war to transportation.
As I contemplate this passage, my heart is drawn to Lamech. He was from the line of Cain and in some of what we read his character comes into question. Still, I cannot help but wonder what kind of father he was. He raised three sons and a daughter to be useful members of society. I have lived long enough to know that some great parents are often disappointed in the direction their children have taken—and I am sure that many of us have children who turn out far better than we deserve. The most important role of any father is to raise his children in the knowledge of God and to lead them towards faith in Jesus Christ and His atoning work.
One way we do that is by seeking to model our heavenly Father to the greatest extent we are able. What a challenge! In the end we must leave the results to God—as we continually pray and support our children.
CONTEMPLATE: The harp is found throughout Scripture from Genesis to Revelation.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
The Center of the Bible
~ Maybe Not What You Think ~
Where is the center of the Bible? In the last post I mentioned the significance of Isaiah 53 and pointed out it can be considered the heart of the Bible as it contains the core message of the Bible! There are other ways to determine the center of the Bible. What follows is one of the more common determinations of the center of the Bible.
DISCLAIMER: It is relevant to mention two things: (1) All calculations are based on the Authorized Version (widely referred to as the King James Version). (2) Chapter and verse divisions were not inserted into the Bible until 1205 and are not divinely inspired in the same manner as Scripture.
Psalm 118
Psalm 118 was Martin Luther’s favorite psalm. It begins by giving thanks to the LORD and comes full circle, ending with the same message of giving thanks to the LORD.
It is also a messianic psalm—a psalm which speaks of the coming Messiah. Verse 22 begins a reference to the coming of Christ.
Psalm 118:28 contains the greatest statement that anyone can make, “Thou art my God.”
Psalm 118 is widely reported to be the central chapter of the Bible—but is it?
Psalm 117
Psalm 117 with just two verses is the shortest chapter in the Bible and is a good summary of what the entire Bible has to say to mankind. “Praise the LORD, all you nations; extol Him, all you peoples. For great is His love toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Praise the LORD.”
There are 1,189 chapters in the Bible and there are 594 chapters before Psalm 117 and 594 chapters after it. Psalm 117 is the center chapter of the Bible.
Center Verses: Psalm 118:8-9
The central verse of the Bible is often stated as Psalm 118:8. To be more precise, there are 31,174 verses in the Bible—an even number of verses and therefore no one center verse. Rather the center verses are Psalm 118:8-9.
What is the message of these pivotal two verses? “It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes.”
This coincides nicely with the message of 118:28 mentioned previously. If God is truly our God, then we should put all our trust in Him as these central verses state. If all Christians always kept that principle in mind, what a better place this world would be!
In summary, the central verses and the central chapter of the Bible contain central truths of the Bible! These central concepts are relevant guides to every aspect of the daily lives of all Christians everywhere.
CONTEMPLATE: This book will keep you from sin or sin will keep you from this book! (author unknown)
Where is the center of the Bible? In the last post I mentioned the significance of Isaiah 53 and pointed out it can be considered the heart of the Bible as it contains the core message of the Bible! There are other ways to determine the center of the Bible. What follows is one of the more common determinations of the center of the Bible.
DISCLAIMER: It is relevant to mention two things: (1) All calculations are based on the Authorized Version (widely referred to as the King James Version). (2) Chapter and verse divisions were not inserted into the Bible until 1205 and are not divinely inspired in the same manner as Scripture.
Psalm 118
Psalm 118 was Martin Luther’s favorite psalm. It begins by giving thanks to the LORD and comes full circle, ending with the same message of giving thanks to the LORD.
It is also a messianic psalm—a psalm which speaks of the coming Messiah. Verse 22 begins a reference to the coming of Christ.
Psalm 118:28 contains the greatest statement that anyone can make, “Thou art my God.”
Psalm 118 is widely reported to be the central chapter of the Bible—but is it?
Psalm 117
Psalm 117 with just two verses is the shortest chapter in the Bible and is a good summary of what the entire Bible has to say to mankind. “Praise the LORD, all you nations; extol Him, all you peoples. For great is His love toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Praise the LORD.”
There are 1,189 chapters in the Bible and there are 594 chapters before Psalm 117 and 594 chapters after it. Psalm 117 is the center chapter of the Bible.
Center Verses: Psalm 118:8-9
The central verse of the Bible is often stated as Psalm 118:8. To be more precise, there are 31,174 verses in the Bible—an even number of verses and therefore no one center verse. Rather the center verses are Psalm 118:8-9.
What is the message of these pivotal two verses? “It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes.”
This coincides nicely with the message of 118:28 mentioned previously. If God is truly our God, then we should put all our trust in Him as these central verses state. If all Christians always kept that principle in mind, what a better place this world would be!
In summary, the central verses and the central chapter of the Bible contain central truths of the Bible! These central concepts are relevant guides to every aspect of the daily lives of all Christians everywhere.
CONTEMPLATE: This book will keep you from sin or sin will keep you from this book! (author unknown)
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
The Core Message of the Bible
~ Isaiah 53:5-6 ~
If one were to ask, “What is the core message of the Bible?” a number of answers might be given. For example, one of my favorite one-word descriptions of the Bible is “forgiveness.” Another good one-word description of the Bible would be “salvation.”
The Old Testament book of Isaiah is a fascinating book in many ways. The subject of Isaiah is Jesus Christ. His book has been called, “The Gospel before the Gospel.” Others have described Isaiah, who prophesied primarily to Judah, as the “Prophet of Grace”—what a New Testament ring that has! Chapter 53 provides one of the clearest prophecies of the death of Christ found in the Old Testament.
The book of Isaiah has also been called “The Bible in miniature” for several reasons. For example, it is well-known that the book of Isaiah is divided into two major parts consisting of the first 39 chapters and the last 27 chapters—the Bible has 39 chapters in the Old Testament and 27 chapters in the New Testament. The first 39 chapters of Isaiah can be summarized as “Isaiah—the Prophet of God’s holiness” which corresponds to the message of the Old Testament. The final 27 chapters we see “Prophet as the Servant of the Lord” directly relating to the message of the New Testament.
Someone has written the following concerning Isaiah 53: “Isaiah 53 is the central chapter of the central section of the central division, and the central verses of this central chapter enshrine the central truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”
These two verses—Isaiah 53:5-6—should be familiar to all Christians. “But Jesus Christ was pierced for our rebellion, He was crushed for our sins, and He was beaten so we could be healed and made whole. He was whipped so we could be restored and made complete. All of us, like sheep, had strayed away—we had left God's paths to follow our own. Yet the LORD laid on Him the sins of us all.”
At the core of the Bible is the message of salvation!
If one were to ask, “What is the core message of the Bible?” a number of answers might be given. For example, one of my favorite one-word descriptions of the Bible is “forgiveness.” Another good one-word description of the Bible would be “salvation.”
The Old Testament book of Isaiah is a fascinating book in many ways. The subject of Isaiah is Jesus Christ. His book has been called, “The Gospel before the Gospel.” Others have described Isaiah, who prophesied primarily to Judah, as the “Prophet of Grace”—what a New Testament ring that has! Chapter 53 provides one of the clearest prophecies of the death of Christ found in the Old Testament.
The book of Isaiah has also been called “The Bible in miniature” for several reasons. For example, it is well-known that the book of Isaiah is divided into two major parts consisting of the first 39 chapters and the last 27 chapters—the Bible has 39 chapters in the Old Testament and 27 chapters in the New Testament. The first 39 chapters of Isaiah can be summarized as “Isaiah—the Prophet of God’s holiness” which corresponds to the message of the Old Testament. The final 27 chapters we see “Prophet as the Servant of the Lord” directly relating to the message of the New Testament.
Someone has written the following concerning Isaiah 53: “Isaiah 53 is the central chapter of the central section of the central division, and the central verses of this central chapter enshrine the central truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”
These two verses—Isaiah 53:5-6—should be familiar to all Christians. “But Jesus Christ was pierced for our rebellion, He was crushed for our sins, and He was beaten so we could be healed and made whole. He was whipped so we could be restored and made complete. All of us, like sheep, had strayed away—we had left God's paths to follow our own. Yet the LORD laid on Him the sins of us all.”
At the core of the Bible is the message of salvation!
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