Apr. 4, 2021. Hebrews 1:1-4

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BEYOND THE RESURRECTION.  EASTER 2021. 4/4/2021. Hebrews 1:1-4.

Hebrews 1:1-4 [New King James Version]

1 God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, 2 has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds; 3 who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, 4 having become so much better than the angels, as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.

  1. Christ, our redeemer, and intercessor
    1. The Scriptures assign seven distinct tasks to Jesus:
      1. John 1 Jesus is the creator of all things
      1. Colossians 1 Jesus is the sustainer of the universe
      1. Romans 5:8 Jesus is the redeemer of mankind
      1. Colossians 1 Jesus is the chief born of the resurrection (Dan. 12 we are raised because he is risen)
      1. I Timothy 2:5 He makes intercession on behalf of believers, who are accused by Satan day and night (Revelation 12:10)
      1. I Thessalonians 4:11-18 He raptures the saints and they reign with him for 1000 years (Revelation 20:1-10)
      1. Matthew 28:18 he judges the works of the saints (I Corinthians 3:12-15) and the lives of unbelievers, who he casts into the Lake of Fire (Revelation 20)
    1. Jesus had to go through the crucifixion, burial,  resurrection, ascension, and heavenly offering (Hebrews 9:11-12) before he could assume his high priestly role
  2. Jesus as High Priest
    1. Paul mentions the resurrection more times (25) than
    1. he does the crucifixion
      1. The crucifixion = key point of history
    1. The Resurrection = the proof that full and absolute atonement had been accomplished Luke 24; Matthew 28 the evidence of prophecy and the testimony of eye witnesses gives assurance of faith
    1. What of sins committed after conversion?
      1. As High Priest at the right hand of the Father, Jesus continues to make intercession for us
      1. Justification thwarts Satan’s accusations
    1. The crucifixion paid for our sins
      1. The resurrection declared that the sin payment was accepted by God the Father
      1. High Priest intercession on our behalf effectively thwarts all attempts to by Satan to reverse our justification or status as joint heirs to Kingdom of God
    1. The crucifixion and resurrection fulfilled Christ’s redemptive role in time, so that Christ could enter his High Priestly role on our behalf to the end of time (the 1st makes us saved; the 2nd makes us secure)
      1. Ephesians 1 the Spirit seals us
      1. Hebrews 7:25 Jesus defends us (Hebrews 4:14-16)
  3. An inheritance guaranteed
    1. Jesus obtained us as an inheritance so we can inherit all things with him (Romans 8:17)
    1. Jesus’ perfect divinity qualified him to be the perfect sacrifice, redeemer, and High Priest for the last time
    1. Psalm 110:4 He is the final priest after Melchizedek (from incarnation, to atoner, to intercessor, to inheritance)

Mar. 28, 2021. Colossians 3:19-23

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PEACE THROUGH BLOOD.  Colossians 3:19-23.  3/28/2021. #4.

Colossians 3:19-23 [New King James Version]

19 Husbands, love your wives and do not be bitter toward them. 20 Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord. 21 Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged. 22 Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God. 23 And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men,

  1. Fullness to fulfillment
    1. God was pleased that all fullness dwelt in Christ
      1. He is fully God by nature (not given by Father)
      1. In the Incarnation he has all authority, power, and judgment (Mt. 28:18 given by the Father)
      1. All fullness dwells (permanently lives) in him
    1. He not only had qualification to pay for sins, but he had
    1. the authority to do so
    1. He has reconciled all things to himself
      1. On earth
        1. Romans 5:8 salvation for the faithful
        1. Revelation 20:11-15 the faithless are cast into the Lake of Fire for eternity
      1. In heaven – Matthew 25:41 Satan and the demons are cast into the Lake of Fire forever
    1. Believers are reconciled via the blood of His cross
      1. Hebrews 10:1-10 the blood of offered animals could not remove the guilt of sin
      1. Romans 5:12 the blood of Christ was the perfect effective sacrifice for sin (Hebrews 9:22)
  2. From enemies to enlightenment
    1. Our position before coming to the Lord was that of an enemy of God, total strangers (aliens) to God
    1. Our minds were full of wickedness which translated into wicked words (lying, pride, thievery, immorality, hate…)
      1. Universal depravity from conception
      1. Sin in a matter of degrees is still sin (Jm. 2:10)
    1. He has reconciled (made peace with God)
      1. By giving his body in death for us
      1. Present to God blameless (above reproach)
    1. We are justified before God
      1. Declared to be righteous, holy, blameless, and above reproach before God
      1. Jesus’s blood applied to our account applies Christ’s righteousness to us and we appear before God as if we had never sinned
  3. From faith to maturity
    1. “If” you indeed continue in faith…
      1. Could be either “on the condition” you continue in faith (contingent upon not backing away)
      1. Could be “since” you continue in faith
    1. Those who grow in Christ make manifest that they are
    1. true believers (Jam. 2 faith is demonstrated by deeds)
    1. Those who do not grow in faith demonstrate that they are
    1. unsaved (Matthew 7:21-23), immature (Heb. 5), or carnal (I Corinthians 3)
    1. Faith is manifested by growth
      1. Grounded – firm in Word, doctrine, belief, practice, and testimony
      1. Steadfast – does not waver in faith (Jm. 1:8)
      1. Unshakeable – no amount of persuasion, doubts, pressure, or threats can move you from Gospel
    1. You believe the Gospel that was preached throughout the
    1. world, of which Paul is a minister
    1. The Colossians needed to understand the scope of faith
      1. They were wicked without hope
      1. They were reconciled by the blood of Christ
      1. They were moved from darkness to light
      1. They are to grow in the knowledge and obedience of Christ, demonstrating their faith in him

Key verse:

Hebrews 10:1-10

1 For the law, having a shadow of the good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with these same sacrifices, which they offer continually year by year, make those who approach perfect. 2 For then would they not have ceased to be offered? For the worshipers, once purified, would have had no more consciousness of sins. 3 But in those sacrifices there is a reminder of sins every year. 4 For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats could take away sins. 5 Therefore, when He came into the world, He said: “Sacrifice and offering You did not desire, But a body You have prepared for Me.

6 In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin You had no pleasure. 7 Then I said, ‘Behold, I have come—

In the volume of the book it is written of Me — To do Your will, O God.’ ” 8 Previously saying, “Sacrifice and offering, burnt offerings, and offerings for sin You did not desire, nor had pleasure in them” (which are offered according to the law), 9 then He said, “Behold, I have come to do Your will, O God.” He takes away the first that He may establish the second. 10 By that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

Mar. 28, 2021. II Samuel 7:18-29

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HUMBLE BEFORE THE LORD.  II Samuel 7:18-29.  3/28/2021.  #17.

2 Samuel 7:18-29 [New King James Version]

18 Then King David went in and sat before the Lord; and he said: “Who am I, O Lord God? And what is my house, that You have brought me this far? 19 And yet this was a small thing in Your sight, O Lord God; and You have also spoken of Your servant’s house for a great while to come. Is this the manner of man, O Lord God? 20 Now what more can David say to You? For You, Lord God, know Your servant. 21 For Your word’s sake, and according to Your own heart, You have done all these great things, to make Your servant know them. 22 Therefore You are great, [a]O Lord God. For there is none like You, nor is there any God besides You, according to all that we have heard with our ears. 23 And who is like Your people, like Israel, the one nation on the earth whom God went to redeem for Himself as a people, to make for Himself a name—and to do for Yourself great and awesome deeds for Your land—before Your people whom You redeemed for Yourself from Egypt, the nations, and their gods? 24 For You have made Your people Israel Your very own people forever; and You, Lord, have become their God. 25 “Now, O Lord God, the word which You have spoken concerning Your servant and concerning his house, establish it forever and do as You have said. 26 So let Your name be magnified forever, saying, ‘The Lord of hosts is the God over Israel.’ And let the house of Your servant David be established before You. 27 For You, O Lord of hosts, God of Israel, have revealed this to Your servant, saying, ‘I will build you a house.’ Therefore Your servant has found it in his heart to pray this prayer to You. 28 “And now, O Lord God, You are God, and Your words are true, and You have promised this goodness to Your servant. 29 Now therefore, let it please You to bless the house of Your servant, that it may continue before You forever; for You, O Lord God, have spoken it, and with Your blessing let the house of Your servant be blessed forever.”

  1. Reflection
    1. After David’s enemies had been defeated and David’s throne was well established, he has time to reflect on his lot
    1. David had tried to thank God by building him a temple, but God rejected the idea since David was a man of war
    1. David asks the obvious questions:
      1. “Who am I that you have made me king?”
        1. David was a shepherd and poor
        1. His family was insignificant in Israel
        1. He had no pedigree or deeds of note
      1. Many of God’s chosen vessel asked the same question: Gideon, Samson’s mother, Saul, Mary, Elizabeth, Paul…
    1. 1 Cor. 1 God rarely chooses the mighty, powerful, rich, talented, or acclaimed to do his will
      1. Most of God’s servants are quite ordinary on the human scale
      1. Abraham was a shepherd of Ur, Amos was a  sheep breeder in Tekoa, Peter and John were  fishermen, and Mary was a peasant girl
    1. The blessing and anointing of an individual comes via God’s choice and not our merit
    1. Those men seeking greatness falter (Absalom, Haman)
    1. David points out the wonder of God’s sovereignty:
      1. It is a small matter that God could take a poor shepherd boy and make him king
      1. This is not the way of man who looks for greatness in strength, heritage, and persuasion
      1. David could find no reason that God would choose him for greatness
      1. God chose David despite God knowing him and all his flaws and shortcomings 
      1. David ascribes greatness to God in all he does
    1. God’s greatness is not only in his deeds
      1. God has revealed himself and his plans to David
      1. There is none like God who decrees wonders
  2. An awesome promise
    1. David is overawed by 2 great realities:
      1. God has chosen Israel from among all the nations to be God’s special people, set aside for Him forever (no merit on Israel’s part for this honor)
      1. David’s line will forever sit on the throne
        1. Saul’s line was rejected
        1. No future king from David’s line will be rejected, ending the line of succession
    1. David’s line continues through Jesus (both Mary and Joseph
    1. were of the royal line, though they were common villagers)
    1. David expresses both wonder and thanksgiving
      1. All of God’s grace to us, from birth to rebirth to ministry before God are to God’s credit alone
      1. Humble acknowledgement short circuits pride
    1. We need to often reflect on his grace to us
  3. Affirmation
    1. David requests that God carry out his plan to bless David’s line forever (David adds an amen to declaration)
    1. We should enthusiastically affirm God’s will in our lives no matter what that will may be
    1. By David taking time to reflect on God’s grace and praise  him for it, he gives glory to God and submits to his will

Mar. 21, 2021. Colossians 1:13-18

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CHRIST-CREATOR, SUSTAINER; REDEEMER.  Colossians 1:13-18.  3/21/2021.  #03.

Colossians 1:13-18 [New King James Version]

13 He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, 14 in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins. 15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16 For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. 17 And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. 18 And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.

  1. Christ, the redeemer
    1. This is the most comprehensive summary of who Jesus
    1. Christ is in the Bible
    1. The description begins by describing Jesus as the savior
      1. He has delivered us from darkness (evil, sin, spiritual ignorance)
      1. He delivered us from the power (authority) of darkness (control of Satan and sin, eternal death)
    1. Christ has removed us from the power of Satan and transferred (moved, transported) us in the Kingdom of Christ
      1. We were citizens of the fallen world and he has made us citizens of heaven
      1. John 3:13-21 the love of God manifested in and via God’s Son produces a new birth that proffers forgiveness of sin via his blood, redeeming us
  2. Christ, manifestation of God
    1. Jesus is qualified to be the sin-bearer because is in the
    1. exact image (essence, exact likeness, precise substance)
    1. of the invisible God (he is all that God the Father is)
    1. John 14:9 whoever has seen Jesus has seen the Father
    1. Firstborn of all creation
      1. This does not mean first in time or order (Adam)
      1. Chief born (highest of all creation)
      1. Doesn’t mean that Jesus was created (eternal)
      1. Hebrews 10 the God-man created within Mary has the the greatest and pinnacle of all creation (it is that which was created on which all things depend)
      1. I Corinthians 15 he has been given rule over all creation
  3. Christ, the creator
    1. Not only is he the chief-born of creation, but also the creator of all things
    1. John 1 nothing was created that he did not create
      1. All things in heaven: archangels, angels, cherubim, seraphim (even fallen angels – Isaiah 14)
      1. Hebrews 6:11-12 all principalities = created by him
      1. Not only were things created through him, but also for him (I Timothy 6:13-15)
        1. Matthew 28:18 all authority is given to Jesus
        1. 1 Corinthians 15:28 after all of Christ’s enemies are made his footstool, he gifts all back to the Father so he will be all in all
    1. Not only is Jesus the creator, he is also the sustainer
      1. The universe would dissolve into nothing if Jesus did not sustain it (II Peter 3:10-11)
      1. Jesus help the nails and cross together
      1. Jesus is the power behind creation in origins and continued existence (behind quantum reality)
  4. Christ, the head of the church
    1. Hebrews 12:2 all of creation, the Incarnation, the atonement,
    1. and resurrection were so he could bring many previously
    1. fallen people to glory (Hebrews 2:10)
    1. b. Revelation 22 the redemption of fallen man is such a key focal
    1. point that believers are the only part of creation left after
    1. the present heaven and earth are destroyed
    1. Along with the elect angels, believers enter into the New
    1. Heaven and earth, but only believers are joint heirs with
    1. Christ to the throne of God
    1. Jesus as Chief born of the dead (resurrection) has all
    1. preeminence over all things (all glory and worship)

Key verse:  John 3:13-21

13 No one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is, the Son of Man who is in heaven. 14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. 16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. 18 “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 19 And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. 21 But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God.”

Mar. 21, 2021. II Samuel 7:1-17

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A VERY GOOD BAD IDEA.  II Samuel 7:1-17.  3/21/2021.  #16.

II Samuel 7:1-17 [New King James Version]

1 Now it came to pass when the king was dwelling in his house, and the Lord had given him rest from all his enemies all around, 2 that the king said to Nathan the prophet, “See now, I dwell in a house of cedar, but the ark of God dwells inside tent curtains.” 3 Then Nathan said to the king, “Go, do all that is in your heart, for the Lord is with you.” 4 But it happened that night that the word of the Lord came to Nathan, saying, 5 “Go and tell My servant David, ‘Thus says the Lord: “Would you build a house for Me to dwell in? 6 For I have not dwelt in a house since the time that I brought the children of Israel up from Egypt, even to this day, but have moved about in a tent and in a tabernacle. 7 Wherever I have moved about with all the children of Israel, have I ever spoken a word to anyone from the tribes of Israel, whom I commanded to shepherd My people Israel, saying, ‘Why have you not built Me a house of cedar?” 8 Now therefore, thus shall you say to My servant David, ‘Thus says the Lord of hosts: “I took you from the sheepfold, from following the sheep, to be ruler over My people, over Israel. 9 And I have been with you wherever you have gone, and have cut off all your enemies from before you, and have made you a great name, like the name of the great men who are on the earth. 10 Moreover I will appoint a place for My people Israel, and will plant them, that they may dwell in a place of their own and move no more; nor shall the sons of wickedness oppress them anymore, as previously, 11 since the time that I commanded judges to be over My people Israel, and have caused you to rest from all your enemies. Also the Lord tells you that He will make you a house. 12 “When your days are fulfilled and you rest with your fathers, I will set up your seed after you, who will come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He shall build a house for My name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 14 I will be his Father, and he shall be My son. If he commits iniquity, I will chasten him with the rod of men and with the blows of the sons of men. 15 But My mercy shall not depart from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I removed from before you. 16 And your house and your kingdom shall be established forever before you. Your throne shall be established forever.” 17 According to all these words and according to all this vision, so Nathan spoke to David.

  1. A kingdom at rest
    1. God had given David rest from all his enemies
      1. Saul had been deposed
      1. David had soundly defeated the Philistines twice
      1. The surrounding nations were at peace with David
    1. God had blessed David materially and socially
      1. David lived in a palace of cedar
      1. David had numerous wives, concubines, servants, soldiers, and material possessions
      1. David, who was hunted, now was popular
      1. David was at peace
  2. A grand idea
    1. David decides that since God had done so much for him,
    1. that he was going to do something for God
    1. David had just brought the Arc of the Covenant back to the
    1. Holy of Holies in the Tabernacle after a century’s absence
    1. The tabernacle had moved from place to place with Israel
    1. for over 4 centuries.
      1. There were specific procedures connected with moving the tabernacle
      1. David thought that it needed a permanent home
    1. David imagined a temple of stone and cedar, like his palace
      1. This would be David’s ultimate gift to God and the crowning achievement of his reign
      1. David probably had a design in mind and the temple would be permanently near his palace
    1. David consults the prophet Nathan as to his plans
      1. Nathan uses the logic that since God had blessed David, God would be pleased with a temple by him
      1. Neither David not Nathan asks God’s will on the idea of building a temple
    1. Many “great” ideas are not God’s ideas
      1. Joshua attacking Ai, Joshua making a covenant with Gibeon, Paul going to Jerusalem, Paul being released from his thorn, Abram fleeing to Egypt to escape the drought, Jehoshaphat allying with Ahab, Hezekiah showing the Bab. his wealth
      1. If God does not approve, a good idea is bad
  3. A grand idea rejected
    1. God comes to Nathan at night and tells him to return to
    1. David to tell him that he could not build a temple
    1. God lists several reason why David was not to build it
      1. God had dwelled in the tabernacle for 450 years
      1. God had never asked for a permanent home
      1. I Chronicles 28:3 David has a bloody man of war
    1. God would have David’s son build the temple
      1. David’s line would be established on throne
      1. I Chronicles 17:11-14 the Davidic Covenant establishes David’s line forever on the throne, leading to the Messiah (Matthew 21:9)
    1. David’s desire to build the temple was not for him to do
      1. God chooses who is to do what task (Rm. 12:4-6)
      1. John 21 Peter was not to know what John was to do
      1. Each person fits where God chooses, not us (to choose our own well intentioned will is to fail)
    1. A prophet or apostle speaks infallibly only when God
    1. moves him to speak (Nathan and temple, Paul in 1 Corinthians 7)

Mar. 14, 2021. Colossians 1:9-12

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DISCIPLES IN THE MIRROR.  Colossians 1:9-12.  03/14/21.  #2.

Ill – Checklist for true disciples

Colossians 1:9-12 [New King James Version]

9 For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; 12 giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light.

  1. Paul summarizes what it means to be a disciple of Christ
    1. Paul had never been to Colosse
      1. Epaphras had established the Colossians church
      1. Paul was answering questions from the Colossians
        1. Important to correct false doctrine and errant practices
        1. New believers need to be grounded
    1. Paul prays for specific areas of maturity in Colossians saints
      1. These are the same attributes needed for all
      1. Paul’s prayers needed to be answered with submission and response by Colossians believers
      1. Paul starts with a list of qualities necessary to become a mature Christian
    1. Three aspects found in all spiritual saints:
      1. The knowledge of the will of God
        1. Imperative will of God — found the Word of God (obedience to Word is primary—James 1:22-25)
        1. Implied will of God — knowing and understanding God’s principles (applies to many situations)
        1. Indicated will of God — specific calling for each individual
      1. All wisdom—James 1:5 God can lead a believer in both understanding (knowledge) and applied wisdom (prudence)
      1. Spiritual understanding – seeing things as God sees them (there is worldly wisdom and celestial wisdom)
        1. Spiritual understanding leads us to recognize, avoid and shun sin
        1. The spiritual seek God’s teachings, understanding, and will
  2. Paul lists 6 results of the spiritual walk
    1. A worthy way of life
      1. Worthy is not perfect, but commendable in the sight of God (Noah, Joseph, Job, Daniel)
      1. Untainted way of life (free from sin and pride)
    1. Pleasing God – concerned about pleasing God instead of pleasing self (a submission of will to God)
    1. Fruitful in all good works – a Christian is spiritually productive in home, service, and beyond (John 15:1-8)
      1. God opens doors to minister to others
      1. Fruit is Gospel, at home, among neighbors…
      1. I Corinthians 11:1, a worthy example before others
    1. Increasing in the knowledge of God – grows in knowing Word of God, understanding Him and his ways
    1. Strengthened in all areas of the Christian walk:
      1. All might by his glorious power (strength to withstand evil, persecution, and demonic forces)
      1. In all patience and longsuffering (power over flesh)
      1. In all joy (Philippians 4:4, even in difficult situations)
    1. Partakers of the inheritance of light (walk in the reality of a victorious life leading to the celestial palace)
  3. A lofty summary
    1. This ideal list needs fleshed out and takes a lifetime of focus
    1. This requires an ongoing conquering of the flesh
    1. Spiritual goals are reached only by understanding and focus
    1. Pursuit of holiness is the greatest endeavor of all

Key verse: John 15:1-8

1 “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He [a]takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. 5 “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you[b] will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. 8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.

Mar. 14, 2021. II Samuel 6:20-23

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STRIFE WITH THE WIFE.  II Samuel 6:20-23.  3/14/21.  #15.

II Samuel 6:20-23 [New King James Version]

20 Then David returned to bless his household. And Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David, and said, “How glorious was the king of Israel today, uncovering himself today in the eyes of the maids of his servants, as one of the base fellows shamelessly uncovers himself!” 21 So David said to Michal, “It was before the Lord, who chose me instead of your father and all his house, to appoint me ruler over the people of the Lord, over Israel. Therefore I will play music before the Lord. 22 And I will be even more undignified than this, and will be humble in my own sight. But as for the maidservants of whom you have spoken, by them I will be held in honor.” 23 Therefore Michal the daughter of Saul had no children to the day of her death.

  1. A blessing rejected
    1. After David brought the ark back in a celebratory fashion,
    1. he blessed all the people and gave them gifts
    1. Finally, David enters the palace to bless his household
      1. Michal meets him with scorn for his unseemly display and irreverent abandonment
      1. Michal is mortified, incensed, and scorning
    1. David is taken back by his wife’s reaction
      1. This was a day of celebration and she was throwing cold water on the proceedings
      1. David does not understand Michal’s objections
  2. Michal’s complaints are from her idea of proper decorum
    1. She uses biting sarcasm: “How glorious was the king of Israel today…”
      1. She meant just the opposite
      1. She expected David to set the example for dignity, reverence, and proper worship
      1. David did not live up to her expectations
    1. David uncovered (exposed) himself before his maid servants (young maidens)
      1. This was Michal’s most grievous complaint
      1. What Michal felt was a level of exposure reserved for a wife alone, David displayed publicly for all to see
        1. David was not completely naked
        1. David was wearing what we would view as underwear (“base shameless fellow”)
  3. David rejected Michal’s criticism
    1. David counterattacked: ‘God chose me in place of your father and ALL HIS HOUSE’
      1. David hints that Saul was the one debased
      1. David showed God respect through devotion
    1. David argues that his indignity was an act of humiliation
      1. Job sat in a beggar’s cloth and ashes, Isaiah walked around 3 days naked (Is. 20:2-3), and the entire city of Nineveh was in sackcloth and ashes in Jonah
      1. What Michal saw as undignified, David saw as an act of contrition and submission (God was exalted and David was not glorious before him)
    1. Where is the line between humility and immodesty here?
    1. David argues that he is honored among the maidens that Michal was concerned about
  4. Michal gets a bum rap by preachers throughout church history
    1. It is often preached that Michal had no children and was even put away in seclusion because of this episode (not in Bible)
    1. Even translators are caught up in the Michal bad critique
      1. KJV has “and Michal…had no children…”
        1. NKJV and others have “therefore Michal…had no…” Assumption that Michal’s complaint was the cause of her childlessness
        1. Hebrew has “and (waw, ɿ) Michal…”, not therefore Michal…” = just an added note
    1. The reason why Michal had no children is found in the passages
      1. Throughout this chapter Michal is called “Saul’s daughter” and not “David’s wife”
      1. I Samuel 22 the kingdom was taken from Saul
      1. David adds “and all Saul’s household”
      1. Had Michal had sons, David’s line would have been mixed with Saul’s (Michal was childless because of her father = better than Merab’s fate)

Mar. 7, 2021. Colossians 1:1-8

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2nd GENERATION CHURCH.  Colossians 1:1-8.  03/07/2021.  #1.

Colossians 1:1-8 [New King James Version]

1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, 2 To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ who are in Colosse: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 We give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, 4 since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of your love for all the saints; 5 because of the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, of which you heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel, 6 which has come to you, as it has also in all the world, and is bringing forth fruit, as it is also among you since the day you heard and knew the grace of God in truth; 7 as you also learned from Epaphras, our dear fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf, 8 who also declared to us your love in the Spirit.

  1. Introduction to the epistle
    1. Colosse = app. 85 miles east of Ephesus
    1. Part of Hierapolis/Laodicea/Colosse tri-city area
    1. On Lycus R. before Meander R. (cloth dying region)
    1. Frequent earthquakes (became lesser of 3 cities)
    1. Near Roman Road from Ephesus to Euphrates R.
    1. Paul had never been there
      1. Established by Epaphras (Phm. 22-23)
      1. Home of Philemon and Aristarchus (pastor)
    1. Paul hoped to visit Colossians upon release from prison
    1. Similar epistle to Ephesians = apparently, Colossians was written first and then Ephesians expands on same themes Paul also wrote a letter to Laodicea at the same time, but we don’t have it (Revelation 3 = letter to Laodicea)
    1. Two main issues: deity of Christ and worship of angels
  2. Greetings
    1. Paul gives a typical greeting from him and Timothy
      1.  Calls them faithful brothers in Christ
      1.  Paul had heard about their faith
    1. Paul thanked God for their salvation
      1. Paul could not reach everywhere, so he was gratified that the gospel spread beyond his work and churches were established
      1. First church not directly established by Paul
      1. Sets the pattern for church expansion
    1. Epaphras carried questions to Paul that he could not
    1. directly answer in the Colosse in person
      1. Establishing the right doctrine from the start is critical for proper spiritual growth
      1. The spread of heresy counteracts the  mission of the church
      1. II Corinthians 11:14-15 Satan loves to counterfeit the real church and spread confusion
  3. Right start
    1. Epaphras gave the right gospel, but he could not answer all their doctrinal questions
      1. Pagan beliefs, superstitions, and practices carried into the new faith
      1. Two results: (1) false doctrine that gives false hope (2) a mixture of truth and error so tainting the gospel that it is of no effect
    1. We are often unaware of what erroneous influences from our past and culture that dilutes our faith Epaphras was a faithful believer, but he was still learning and was wise enough to ask Paul for help
      1. He did not speculate or invent answers
      1. Truth must be diligently sought out
      1. II Timothy 2:15-21 not lazy in study or merely listening to what others say (not stay ignorant)
    1. When error settles in = becomes heresy and then cults
    1. Paul starts by elaborating on deity of Christ (best!)
    1. Encourage: Paul praises Colossians faith, but corrects error

Key verse: II Timothy 2:15-21

15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 16 But shun profane and idle babblings, for they will increase to more ungodliness. 17 And their message will spread like cancer. Hymenaeus and Philetus are of this sort, 18 who have strayed concerning the truth, saying that the resurrection is already past; and they overthrow the faith of some. 19 Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity.” 20 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. 21 Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, [d]sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work.

Mar. 7, 2021. II Samuel 6:12-19

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THE ARK MOVES TO JERUSALEM. II Samuel 6:12-19.  3/7/2021. #14.

II Samuel 6:12-19

12 Now it was told King David, saying, “The Lord has blessed the house of Obed-Edom and all that belongs to him, because of the ark of God.” So David went and brought up the ark of God from the house of Obed-Edom to the City of David with gladness. 13 And so it was, when those bearing the ark of the Lord had gone six paces, that he sacrificed oxen and fatted sheep. 14 Then David danced before the Lord with all his might; and David was wearing a linen ephod. 15 So David and all the house of Israel brought up the ark of the Lord with shouting and with the sound of the trumpet. 16 Now as the ark of the Lord came into the City of David, Michal, Saul’s daughter, looked through a window and saw King David leaping and whirling before the Lord; and she despised him in her heart. 17 So they brought the ark of the Lord, and set it in its place in the midst of the tabernacle that David had erected for it. Then David offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the Lord. 18 And when David had finished offering burnt offerings and peace offerings, he blessed the people in the name of the Lord of hosts. 19 Then he distributed among all the people, among the whole multitude of Israel, both the women and the men, to everyone a loaf of bread, a piece of meat, and a cake of raisins. So all the people departed, everyone to his house.

  1. Reset
    1. David had attempted to move the Ark with an ox cart
      1. The result was the death of Uzzah
      1. David was both angry and terrified
    1. David thought that he was doing a good thing
      1. Bringing the Ark to Jerusalem should please God
      1. David desired to reunite the Ark ŵ the Tabernacle
    1. David took 3 months to figure out what went wrong
      1. Was God angry with him for moving the Ark?
      1. Was God angry with Israel?
      1. Was there secret sin in the camp?
    1. David made 3 fatal errors:
      1. Unlike with the battles with the Philistines, David did not ask God if he should move the Ark
      1. David did not inquire of the priests how the Ark should be moved
      1. David took it upon himself to move the Ark, when moving the Ark was exclusively the job of the priests
    1. David is told that the house of Obed-Edom had been blessed after the Ark was placed in his house
      1. David concluded that God was not angry at Israel
      1. David again makes preparation to move the Ark
      1. David has had 3 months to figure out his error
  2. The Ark moved properly
    1. The proper Levites bore the Ark by its poles
    1. After 6 steps, the procession was stopped so a sacrifice to
    1. God could be made
    1. David and Israel were joyous
      1. David wore a linen ephod (breastplate) and danced before the Lord (apparently in his loin cloth-vs. 20)
      1. Israel shouted, sang, danced, and worshipped
    1. The Ark is safely carried to the Holy of Holies in the Taber.
      1. David then hands out treats and blesses the people
      1. This was the high point of David’s life
  3. Storm over the castle
    1. Not everyone was happy about David’s behavior
      1. Queen Michal was mortified, embarrassed beyond belief and utterance
      1. As she watched from a castle window she loathed her husband for embarrassing her
    1. Michal expected the king to be dignified and demure
      1. The abandoned joy of David was unseemly and immodest in the eyes of his wife
      1. Michal was called Saul’s daughter (an important distinction at the end of the chapter)
      1. Michal had saved David’s life, but her love had turned to repulsion
    1. Several aspects in worship that should be considered:
      1. Not everyone worships God in the same fashion
      1. There is no absolute right and wrong between  those who worship in a stately, dignified way, considering the holiness of God and those who celebrate God with boisterous joy
      1. Some occasions call for somber reflection and some for celebratory exaltation
      1. Cultures and personalities vary in expressions
      1. There are lines that should not be crossed in irreverence, immodesty, and crudeness
    1. David and Michal are destined to have a showdown at home

Feb. 28, 2021. Philippians 4:14-23

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HEAVEN BOUND GIVING. Philippians 4:14-23. 02/28/21. #21.

Philippians 4:14-23 [New King James Version]

14 Nevertheless you have done well that you shared in my distress. 15 Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only. 16 For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. 18 Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God. 19 And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. 20 Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen. 21 Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren who are with me greet you. 22 All the saints greet you, but especially those who are of Caesar’s household. 23 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.

  1. Well done
    1. Paul thanked the Php. church for their gift to him
      1. He let them know that he was not depending on gifts from any man, but relied on the Lord
      1. Paul was not discounting the support from the Philippians, but he did not want them to think he was relying on them for it (no entitlement)
    1. Paul was content in whatever the Lord gave him
      1. He could get by with little if need be
      1. Paul knew that God would provide him whatever he needed, even if it was meager
    1. Paul states that they had done well to express their care for him with their gifts
      1. Paul was not ungrateful, but joyful in their sharing
      1. Their tangible expression of love = a special bond
    1. Paul states that no other church sent gifts of him
      1. Not Antioch, Ephesus, Galatia, Colossians,…
      1. Philippians sent two gifts to Paul when he was in Thessalonians when the Php. was a brand new church
      1. Earn Paul’s greatest praise and admiration
    1. James 2:14-26 apparently, the Php. church could not pray for Paul without considering how they could help Paul
    1. Philippians = probably surprised that other churches didn’t give
  2. Eternal interest accumulated
    1. Paul states that the gift was more beneficial to the Philippians than it was to him
      1. a1. The gift was fruit to the Philippian’s account
      1. a2. By supporting Paul, they were a part of every
      1. witness, convert, disciple believer in Paul’s ministry
    1. Each disciple made by Paul’s disciples were also credited to the Php. account, as well as each new generation after that until the Lord returns
    1. Paul was full in Christ no matter how he was supported, but his supporters entered into partnership with him
    1. Paul framed the gift in eternal terms:
      1. A sweet aroma before God (imagery from the sacrifices made to God in line with Leviticus)
      1. An acceptable sacrifice
        1. God received it as he did the OT offeringst
        1. The Philippians gave out of their poverty (a true sacrifice of necessities – food, clothing…)
      1. God was pleased with their sacrifice (willing)
  3. God’s bank account
    1. Paul reminds the Php. that God owns all things
      1. Out of God’s abundance, everything the Philippians needed will be supplied to them
      1. No sacrifice for God will go unrewarded
    1. Paul was not promising riches through missionary giving
    1. We will never lack what we need when we give to the Lord
      1. Matthew 25 every gift to the ministry, the needy, and the destitute is a gift to God
      1. Paul is excited for the Php. that they not only have shared in his ministry, but also in his reward
    1. God meets our needs and not our wants
      1. Does not negate trials, struggles, and challenges
      1. He knows more of what we need than we do
      1. The faithful saint will never lack God’s care
    1. Paul ends the epistle with a benediction of greeting
      1. Special greeting from converts from the palace
      1. Paul ends this most upbeat epistle with a blessing

Key verse: James 2:14-26

14 What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, “Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,” but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? 17 Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. 18 But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. 19 You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble! 20 But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? 21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? 22 Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect? 23 And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” And he was called the friend of God. 24 You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only. 25 Likewise, was not Rahab the harlot also justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out another way? 26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.