Notes from Isaiah Bible study December 17, 2008
Judah is warned that their pact will not help them - they made a pact of protection- this probably refers to the pact they made with Egypt when the Assyrians were a threat. It was not God directed though nevertheless those in Judah felt secure in their alliance so they scoffed at the threat. It was an alliance with men. Even though the Assyrians were going around them, yet they convinced themselves they were safe. Some people don't want to face reality. What is reality- is it what our five senses tell us or is it "thus saith the Lord"? Its easy to see why people convince themselves of certain things.
God set Jesus as a cornerstone (or would) - Himself- believing and trusting in God would be the only way not to be "disturbed". A cornerstone - Christ reference, he that believes in Christ will not be disturbed. The cornerstone will be based on justice and righteousness, lies will be swept away.
The Lord is stating His sovereignty- our works are nothing, our pacts are worthless unless they are ordained by God. Their supposed safety was to be trampled, anytime day or night- terror would come along. We live in a society today longing for safety:
we buy insurance why? -for the unexpected, the sudden, we're sending OUR money to "Egypt" (in a sense) on the backs of camels to a people who can't help us. the insurance premiums you pay will almost invariably be more than you ever get back.
We want to know, and God says we can't know- we must trust Him
Their security, their alliance with men will be trampled, often, trampling will bring about terror, too short of a bed(crowded), not enough blanket (scarce). Yet God gave them a choice. Securuty comes through trusting God. Scoffing at the threat (without God) was a bad thing to do. Decisive destruction on all the earth- a present and future glimpse.
Its a cycle like farming, Gods promises will come about in due time (His time- not ours). God also reaches out to people in different ways (like they are different plants). God reaches out to them (attends to them) in the manner that is best for them. Like God is sensitive to us we should be sensitive to others.
Ch 29 Imminent siege of Jerusalem
God is going to allow His city of Jerusalem to be taken. It will be surrounded by the Assyrians, but He will act on His behalf and slay the threat. Later He will allow the city to be taken by the Babylonians. Their false sense of security will fail them- He will let them return to the dust He created them from.
Vs5 - the enemies (assyrians) will become dust- yet another reminder that He will act at least initially.
later the city gets it.
One of the amazing things about this book is that the same things are repeated so many times- the prophecy is given in so many ways that you can't miss it. Even though we are all different and have different view, and hear the same things differently, God patiently and repeatedly shows us what He wants us to know.
Things happen fast, which is interesting that when God does act its sudden, although we would tend to think while we are waiting around for it that it is slow. Things will happen so fast that it will seem as if we were dreaming. Dreams can seem so real, and yet when we wake up we realize they aren't. This life may seem that way, as compared to eternity spent with God
Instantly and suddenly in verse 5 becomes be delayed and wait in verse 9. Be blind, asleep, be in a position where you can't see the Lord getting ready to act. The Lord ordained it- he turned off the warnings.
The entire vision we can get a glimpse of, but we can't know it- not yet. Its a faith thing- we must act on faith. Its also reality - we get a sense of true reality- God in control and on the throne, but we can't explain it, we can't predict it, because we can't know for certain. Again its back to trusting Him, not our own efforts, our own intellect.
We also must act- drawing near to God with words alone does not mean our hearts are committed. Our reverence of God becomes ritual-by ritual we feel like we can be in control - God I will honor you by taking Sunday off, but Saturday I'm going to go to that bar. We then convince ourselves we are wise- we have it figured out but we don't. Our discernment and wisdom are worthless- again it is without God's direction.
We feel we can hide things from God, which we can't. We can only hide them from man- we may acknowledge God knows about them- we may justify them - we may think He won't act (He loves us too much). But when we do such we are denying God's sovereignty, we are denying His rightful place in our lives. We have turned things around and feel we have a better understanding than God.
God will act (without the help of men- something we often forget- I think of Iraq). To think He NEEDS are help is to raise us up and lower Him. We may act out of obedience to Him, but He will accomplish what He wills with or without us.
Blessings- the deaf will hear, the blind will see, the afflicted will increase in gladness to the Lord, the needy will rejoice in the Lord. (Jesus)
Ruthless come to an end, people indicted by a word (one witness), people who act as judges (adjudicates). Jacob will see His people in their midst and turn to Him
Ch 30 Judah's dependence on Egypt
Another warning against alliance with Egypt ( Hezekiah tried to make an alliance against the Assyrians) without God's direction. They sought Egypt for safety from tha Assyrin threat. The Lord delivered them miraculously from slavery in Egypt, but how quickly they forgot. Another common theme in the Bible. God does something in a life- they attribute it to God but then later think He can't or won't act again so they have to make alliances or arrangements. Looking back its easy to see God working in our past, but we need to be cognizant that He is just as present now and is also in our future.
Egypt looked like a good choice for safety- they were seemingly strong. In modern day is the US Israel's Egypt? We seem strong. Well back then they sent their money for protection to the Egyptians which God said could not protect them.
It was a time of rebellious people - who refused to listen to God. many younger people have told me that morality and religion isn't an important consideration in selecting a political candidate. Sons who refuse to listen to instruction from the Lord. They didn't/don't want to hear what God has to say, they only wanted to hear the good things- even if it was lies. They wanted nothing to do with the Lord.
The Lord promised in that day quick - unexpected change -complete. In repentance and rest they would be saved, in quietness and trust would be their strength. They weren't willing. They had the answers, they would flee from the crisis.
God longs to be gracious to them, and He waits. He will come back. People will turn to Him, He will show them the way to walk.
The Lord comes to shake the nations, to put the brible in their mouth that leads to desruction. There will be gladness in heart for His people. Celebration and festival in heaven, punishment and judgement on earth.
Topheth lake of fire prepared, Topheth was the place where children were sacrificed to molech. Its interesting the same place is referenced. A place where the wicked burned the innocent is the same place the wicked will end up
Ch 31 God's deliverence
God and not egypt will deliver His people. They see strength, man's answer. God will cause the "help" to stumble. He who helps will stumble and he who is helped will fall - blind leading the blind Matthew 15:14
The Lord promises He will protect Jerusalem, and asks His people to repent and turn to Him. Which will eventually happen, but hasn't yet.
The Assyrians will fall by a sword not of man (but of God). They will see a miracle first hand and not repent, nor turn to Him
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Notes from Dec 10th
Chapter 25 (Abolition of death)
God has planned this from the beginning, He is worthy of exhaltation (the only One), He is sovereign - a city He said would fall has, if He says never to be rebuilt - it isn't. "A palace of strangers is a city no more" (US?) never to be rebuilt.
Strong people glorify God- strong but submitted, there is strength in knowing our position in relation to God
Cities of ruthless nations will revere Him, Nation ruthless, but city reveres - anarchy? Are the Iranians all bad or is it just their government?
He has defended the helpless, defended the needy, been a refuge or place of safety in a storm (even in the tribulation period) shade from the heat- all this to those that humble themselves, admit their condition and seek Him.
Ruthless like rain against the wall - a roar, but no real threat, about to be subdued and silenced by God. His plan again from beginning.
Lavish banquet prepared (FOR ALL PEOPLES) invitation is clearly to all. Covering of all people is swallowed up. The covering is death- Jesus swallowed it up for us. All peoples everywhere recognize death, it is not a respecter of position either. Jesus turned it from death to sleep- by swallowing it up- for those who choose Him.
Every tear wiped away, reproach (dishonor) removed from His people (Israel). Jews are not honored as His people, in fact a great number of people loathe them- God is allowing this, but one day it will be removed- He has spoken it. As sure as the earth.
This is the Lord for whom we have waited - all the things we have said that others dismissed as being too far-fetched will happen, the seemingly (humanly) foolish (from human perspective) things we believe will happen. The Lord's hand will be on the mountain, it will be obvious. Moab (representation of all the enemies of God- not acknowledging Him or serving Him makes you an enemy also) will be trodden like straw into wet manure. Man will try to swim through it, but will be faced with the fact that God is sovereign (the things man rely on will fail him- go back to dust).
Chapter 26 (Song of trust and triumph)
God makes us secure, not our own efforts, we will be in perfect peace if our mind is focused on Him.
He brings low the "unassailable city" He let the "unsinkable" ship sink.
Our internal spirit will diligently seek Him- takes training, practice, ?????
People learn righteousness through the experience on earth of His judgements. Millenial generation- question everything, want things made/changed to suit them.
Though the wicked is shown favor- patience and kindness of God- continuing chances. His desire that all come to know Him.
Establishment of true peace comes from the Lord- not man
Distress makes them seek the Lord.
Gave birth to wind- could not deliver the earth- an admission that man needs God, otherwise are efforts are in vain. Death will happen, but God's dead will live again, they will rise.
Come my people and enter your rooms and hide while the indignation runs its course- (that is a rapture reference)
Chapter 27 (Revival of God's vineyard)
In that day God will punish Leviathan (7 headed monster- the enemy of God's created order). The vineyard trampled way back in chapter 5 will be restored, with the Lord as its keeper. He'll water it - living water- and guard it. He has no wrath- when He is given briars and thorns He tramples them or burns them, but He doesn't label the giver, because the start of verse 5 says "or" let someone rely on God for protection, let him make peace with God. The opportunity for people to change heart exists now, and will exist in the trib period.
We like to keep a record of wrongs- but it isn't God's way, He loves us. People beat themselves up over their past to the point they feel they should accept punishment, and act accordingly. God's salvation is available, and it is a lie to think its not, or it isn't available to you.
Israel will take root and the entire world will learn of the Lord through Israel.
Has God struck Israel like the jews struck Him (Jesus), Has He slaughtered them like they slaughtered His prophets. He contended with Israel by sending them away, He sent them into exile (this hasn't happened yet). Exiled - Jacob's iniquity will be forgiven when alter stones are pulverized, the fortified city is isolated (alone). dry limbs will be broken off- not in fellowship with God. Not a people of discernment, can see only the now and not the consequences. The entire society is going that way- its all about today- squander are resources now (and we have) debt is spent future income. People don't discern consequences of current actions. God will not have compassion on such, nor be gracious. He will thresh the good- separate grain from chaff and -rid evil
Ch 28 Denunciation of Samaria and Jerusalem
I think sometimes we get so caught up in future glory and get to where we long for it so badly we lose sight of the task at hand. On one side God doesn't want us so focused on the immediate (problem or issue) that it becomes bigger in our mind than He. He gave Isaiah glimpses of the future, on the other hand He wants us to not focus too much on the glorious future, because that can also take away from the proper focus we should have - fully on Him.
Isaiah is back to writing about present times - Proud Ephraim- and drunk Lord has an agent, He has allowed it to trod proud and drunk Ephraim underfoot. A remnant will trust the Lord and be at peace- but still overrun.
Priests and prophets- those that should set the example are drunk and proud, there is no clean place. Their relationship with God (although they hold the title is such that God cannot teach them. So He will treat them like children and teach them like children, basic and repetitive. God will use foreign tongue and stammering lips. He offered them rest and repose but they would not listen, so they went and stumbled backward, were snared, and taken captive.
Chapter 25 (Abolition of death)
God has planned this from the beginning, He is worthy of exhaltation (the only One), He is sovereign - a city He said would fall has, if He says never to be rebuilt - it isn't. "A palace of strangers is a city no more" (US?) never to be rebuilt.
Strong people glorify God- strong but submitted, there is strength in knowing our position in relation to God
Cities of ruthless nations will revere Him, Nation ruthless, but city reveres - anarchy? Are the Iranians all bad or is it just their government?
He has defended the helpless, defended the needy, been a refuge or place of safety in a storm (even in the tribulation period) shade from the heat- all this to those that humble themselves, admit their condition and seek Him.
Ruthless like rain against the wall - a roar, but no real threat, about to be subdued and silenced by God. His plan again from beginning.
Lavish banquet prepared (FOR ALL PEOPLES) invitation is clearly to all. Covering of all people is swallowed up. The covering is death- Jesus swallowed it up for us. All peoples everywhere recognize death, it is not a respecter of position either. Jesus turned it from death to sleep- by swallowing it up- for those who choose Him.
Every tear wiped away, reproach (dishonor) removed from His people (Israel). Jews are not honored as His people, in fact a great number of people loathe them- God is allowing this, but one day it will be removed- He has spoken it. As sure as the earth.
This is the Lord for whom we have waited - all the things we have said that others dismissed as being too far-fetched will happen, the seemingly (humanly) foolish (from human perspective) things we believe will happen. The Lord's hand will be on the mountain, it will be obvious. Moab (representation of all the enemies of God- not acknowledging Him or serving Him makes you an enemy also) will be trodden like straw into wet manure. Man will try to swim through it, but will be faced with the fact that God is sovereign (the things man rely on will fail him- go back to dust).
Chapter 26 (Song of trust and triumph)
God makes us secure, not our own efforts, we will be in perfect peace if our mind is focused on Him.
He brings low the "unassailable city" He let the "unsinkable" ship sink.
Our internal spirit will diligently seek Him- takes training, practice, ?????
People learn righteousness through the experience on earth of His judgements. Millenial generation- question everything, want things made/changed to suit them.
Though the wicked is shown favor- patience and kindness of God- continuing chances. His desire that all come to know Him.
Establishment of true peace comes from the Lord- not man
Distress makes them seek the Lord.
Gave birth to wind- could not deliver the earth- an admission that man needs God, otherwise are efforts are in vain. Death will happen, but God's dead will live again, they will rise.
Come my people and enter your rooms and hide while the indignation runs its course- (that is a rapture reference)
Chapter 27 (Revival of God's vineyard)
In that day God will punish Leviathan (7 headed monster- the enemy of God's created order). The vineyard trampled way back in chapter 5 will be restored, with the Lord as its keeper. He'll water it - living water- and guard it. He has no wrath- when He is given briars and thorns He tramples them or burns them, but He doesn't label the giver, because the start of verse 5 says "or" let someone rely on God for protection, let him make peace with God. The opportunity for people to change heart exists now, and will exist in the trib period.
We like to keep a record of wrongs- but it isn't God's way, He loves us. People beat themselves up over their past to the point they feel they should accept punishment, and act accordingly. God's salvation is available, and it is a lie to think its not, or it isn't available to you.
Israel will take root and the entire world will learn of the Lord through Israel.
Has God struck Israel like the jews struck Him (Jesus), Has He slaughtered them like they slaughtered His prophets. He contended with Israel by sending them away, He sent them into exile (this hasn't happened yet). Exiled - Jacob's iniquity will be forgiven when alter stones are pulverized, the fortified city is isolated (alone). dry limbs will be broken off- not in fellowship with God. Not a people of discernment, can see only the now and not the consequences. The entire society is going that way- its all about today- squander are resources now (and we have) debt is spent future income. People don't discern consequences of current actions. God will not have compassion on such, nor be gracious. He will thresh the good- separate grain from chaff and -rid evil
Ch 28 Denunciation of Samaria and Jerusalem
I think sometimes we get so caught up in future glory and get to where we long for it so badly we lose sight of the task at hand. On one side God doesn't want us so focused on the immediate (problem or issue) that it becomes bigger in our mind than He. He gave Isaiah glimpses of the future, on the other hand He wants us to not focus too much on the glorious future, because that can also take away from the proper focus we should have - fully on Him.
Isaiah is back to writing about present times - Proud Ephraim- and drunk Lord has an agent, He has allowed it to trod proud and drunk Ephraim underfoot. A remnant will trust the Lord and be at peace- but still overrun.
Priests and prophets- those that should set the example are drunk and proud, there is no clean place. Their relationship with God (although they hold the title is such that God cannot teach them. So He will treat them like children and teach them like children, basic and repetitive. God will use foreign tongue and stammering lips. He offered them rest and repose but they would not listen, so they went and stumbled backward, were snared, and taken captive.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Notes from Dec. 3, 2008 Isaiah Bible study
Kedar - Black and swarthy, a son of Ishmael, and the name of a nomadic arabian tribe. and one of their settlements. Ishmael- man's solution to Abraham having descendants. Gen 25:13
Chapter 22
The valley of vision- Jerusalem- a city on a hill with higher hills in the distance. Back to the Assyrian threat - Judah is fully surrounded. Isaiah had warned them for years at this point that they needed to turn to God and rely on Him rather than other people or their own "self sufficiency". They had exlpored alliances, they had fortified their wall, and stored up water, and yet the valley before Jerusalem was full of Assryian Chariots. Now Isaiah sees that God is going to allow Jerusalem to be taken- he sees the day of destruction, he cries.
Isaiah really had a heart for his people and it grieved him terribly that he knew they would suffer (God set a day(s) for it) the very thing he had so earnestly desire that they avoid. He sees the city falling the kings trying to escape at the last minute (Babylon). They would ultimately never relied on God, they never seek relationship with Him, they never included Him in their plans- or better yet asked Him what their plans should be.
So with a surrounded city and still time to turn to God (He was seeking their repentance and honoring of Him) what did they do? Instead of repenting and turning to God they decided to eat drink and be merry- they gave up. They felt they had struggled so long that they just gave up. Have we battled health or finances or work or church issues to the point where we give/gave up- didn't care- left, become reckless? I'm sure we all can think of times we wanted to. Did we turn to God- did we listen to His guidance? Or did we do what we thought was best?
Shebna was in charge of the royal household and as a leader was setting a poor example- the Lord said he would be replaced by Eliakim- who was initially a man that follows God (has relationship). Riches and stature are of no value before God but rather relationship. His very job or position was a gift from God that God was about to take away. God would then give it to someone else (Eliakim) he would become the father of Jerusalem- the example. God would be with him opening doors nobody can shut and shutting doors nobody can open.
But Eliakim the "firm peg" would eventually be broken and fall. Isaiah saw Jerusalem being overrun, it was going to happen - but not by the Assyrian army (Angel of the Lord smites them) - now surrounding the city. In the desparate times they were experiencing God would deliver them for the time being, they would turn to Him for a while. Ultimately they would not stay with Him, and He would not protect them from the Babylonians.
Chapter 23
An oracle concerning Tyre - a trading nation that was punished by God for its pride. It took Egyptian grain to other countries around the mediterranean - this would hurt Egypt's economy. They colonized many lands.
The Lord planned it due to their pride. They were honored by others in the world, and had pride in what they could accomplish. They acted like royalty. Sidon is part of it, and even if they flee to Cyprus - they would find no rest- running from God's will is pointless. Jonah tried to hide in Tarshish and its mentioned here.
Tyre would be destroyed 70 years, then be allowed to play the harlot again. Her gain and harlot's wages will be set apart to the Lord, her gain will become sufficient food and choice attire for those that dwell in the presence of the Lord. No comment mentioned. Millenium? Prov 23:4, Prov 28:8. I can't help but draw a parallel between Tyre and Sidon and the US. Lots of national pride- respected around the world (even after 8 years of Bush) the world watched very closely our election. There is a lot of national pride as to what the American people can do. Its uncanny that in Isaiah the chapter before apocalypse - it talks about a nation that really influenced the world of that day.
Chapter 24-27 are the apocalyptic chapters of Isaiah. The last days and God's judgement on sin.
Chapter 24 (World convulsions)
The Lord will lay the earth waste, devestate it and distort its surface. This will scatter the inhabitants. Prior to millenium?
First thing mentioned- hasn't happened yet. I think we're on our way to waste, devestation and distortion of the surface-how would that look- the big one in CA. Nuclear weapons used in the middle east?
The people will be like the priest- the different will become the same
the servant like his master
the maid like her mistress
buyer like the seller
lender like the borrower - bank bail out
creditor like debtor -bank bail out (world wide)
Convulsions are pre-millenium - earthquakes and changing the way it rotates, etc. New heaven and earth created- post millenium. So prior to reign of Christ on earth there will be dramatic changes, but the new heaven and earth will be after His earthly reign?
Exalted people fade (wither) away- haughty people - those who think they have all the answers, earth polluted by inhabitants (people)
Earth burned - few men left, tribulation - sighs, revelers stop- eventually things get very serious for the inhabitants of earth. Joy turns to gloom and gaiety banished.
Just before? A turning to the Lord- a worldwide revival vs 14-16 it could be those left after the tribulation. Then treacherousness- treacherous is traitor or a changing of sides, seemingly one way but really another- true feelings come out. Then terror, pit, and snare earth inhabitants. Fleeing from one trouble will lead directly to another- too much to take in.
Windows open above, earth shakes below- an open window is an entry point to heavenlies, or reject His call and stay on the shaking earth.
Confinement or imprisonment of evil- both from heaven and earth (during millenium) then punishment (after millenium)
Moon abashed- David Jeremiah allah is the moon god, abashed means humbled. Islamics are zealous for their god, but he isn't the Most High God- Their god isn't big enough, he needs help.
sun is ashamed - another religion? not sure. term "Most High God" used in poly theistic context Beth Moore heard 12/3/2008 WMIT. Moon abashed- turned to blood according to Joel, Sun darkened so also a literal event.
Kedar - Black and swarthy, a son of Ishmael, and the name of a nomadic arabian tribe. and one of their settlements. Ishmael- man's solution to Abraham having descendants. Gen 25:13
Chapter 22
The valley of vision- Jerusalem- a city on a hill with higher hills in the distance. Back to the Assyrian threat - Judah is fully surrounded. Isaiah had warned them for years at this point that they needed to turn to God and rely on Him rather than other people or their own "self sufficiency". They had exlpored alliances, they had fortified their wall, and stored up water, and yet the valley before Jerusalem was full of Assryian Chariots. Now Isaiah sees that God is going to allow Jerusalem to be taken- he sees the day of destruction, he cries.
Isaiah really had a heart for his people and it grieved him terribly that he knew they would suffer (God set a day(s) for it) the very thing he had so earnestly desire that they avoid. He sees the city falling the kings trying to escape at the last minute (Babylon). They would ultimately never relied on God, they never seek relationship with Him, they never included Him in their plans- or better yet asked Him what their plans should be.
So with a surrounded city and still time to turn to God (He was seeking their repentance and honoring of Him) what did they do? Instead of repenting and turning to God they decided to eat drink and be merry- they gave up. They felt they had struggled so long that they just gave up. Have we battled health or finances or work or church issues to the point where we give/gave up- didn't care- left, become reckless? I'm sure we all can think of times we wanted to. Did we turn to God- did we listen to His guidance? Or did we do what we thought was best?
Shebna was in charge of the royal household and as a leader was setting a poor example- the Lord said he would be replaced by Eliakim- who was initially a man that follows God (has relationship). Riches and stature are of no value before God but rather relationship. His very job or position was a gift from God that God was about to take away. God would then give it to someone else (Eliakim) he would become the father of Jerusalem- the example. God would be with him opening doors nobody can shut and shutting doors nobody can open.
But Eliakim the "firm peg" would eventually be broken and fall. Isaiah saw Jerusalem being overrun, it was going to happen - but not by the Assyrian army (Angel of the Lord smites them) - now surrounding the city. In the desparate times they were experiencing God would deliver them for the time being, they would turn to Him for a while. Ultimately they would not stay with Him, and He would not protect them from the Babylonians.
Chapter 23
An oracle concerning Tyre - a trading nation that was punished by God for its pride. It took Egyptian grain to other countries around the mediterranean - this would hurt Egypt's economy. They colonized many lands.
The Lord planned it due to their pride. They were honored by others in the world, and had pride in what they could accomplish. They acted like royalty. Sidon is part of it, and even if they flee to Cyprus - they would find no rest- running from God's will is pointless. Jonah tried to hide in Tarshish and its mentioned here.
Tyre would be destroyed 70 years, then be allowed to play the harlot again. Her gain and harlot's wages will be set apart to the Lord, her gain will become sufficient food and choice attire for those that dwell in the presence of the Lord. No comment mentioned. Millenium? Prov 23:4, Prov 28:8. I can't help but draw a parallel between Tyre and Sidon and the US. Lots of national pride- respected around the world (even after 8 years of Bush) the world watched very closely our election. There is a lot of national pride as to what the American people can do. Its uncanny that in Isaiah the chapter before apocalypse - it talks about a nation that really influenced the world of that day.
Chapter 24-27 are the apocalyptic chapters of Isaiah. The last days and God's judgement on sin.
Chapter 24 (World convulsions)
The Lord will lay the earth waste, devestate it and distort its surface. This will scatter the inhabitants. Prior to millenium?
First thing mentioned- hasn't happened yet. I think we're on our way to waste, devestation and distortion of the surface-how would that look- the big one in CA. Nuclear weapons used in the middle east?
The people will be like the priest- the different will become the same
the servant like his master
the maid like her mistress
buyer like the seller
lender like the borrower - bank bail out
creditor like debtor -bank bail out (world wide)
Convulsions are pre-millenium - earthquakes and changing the way it rotates, etc. New heaven and earth created- post millenium. So prior to reign of Christ on earth there will be dramatic changes, but the new heaven and earth will be after His earthly reign?
Exalted people fade (wither) away- haughty people - those who think they have all the answers, earth polluted by inhabitants (people)
Earth burned - few men left, tribulation - sighs, revelers stop- eventually things get very serious for the inhabitants of earth. Joy turns to gloom and gaiety banished.
Just before? A turning to the Lord- a worldwide revival vs 14-16 it could be those left after the tribulation. Then treacherousness- treacherous is traitor or a changing of sides, seemingly one way but really another- true feelings come out. Then terror, pit, and snare earth inhabitants. Fleeing from one trouble will lead directly to another- too much to take in.
Windows open above, earth shakes below- an open window is an entry point to heavenlies, or reject His call and stay on the shaking earth.
Confinement or imprisonment of evil- both from heaven and earth (during millenium) then punishment (after millenium)
Moon abashed- David Jeremiah allah is the moon god, abashed means humbled. Islamics are zealous for their god, but he isn't the Most High God- Their god isn't big enough, he needs help.
sun is ashamed - another religion? not sure. term "Most High God" used in poly theistic context Beth Moore heard 12/3/2008 WMIT. Moon abashed- turned to blood according to Joel, Sun darkened so also a literal event.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
November 19, 2008 Notes on Isaiah
Chapter 20
Additional note on Damascus, Aram (Damascus) and Israel aligned themselves against Judah, but were both swept away by Assryia. Damascus no longer being a city may point to a future time or that it was destroyed and later rebuilt.
Ethiopia - from that chapter (Cush) was actually a southern kingdom of Egypt, and was in control of Egypt at the time Isaiah was talking about. This was why they were important.
Egypt was prophesied to have anarchy (civil war), internal strife and be conquered. The Assyrians did this, so it has happened at least once. It was recorded by Jeremiah (46) and Ezekiel (29). With Isaiah's prophecy, Jeremiah's and Ezekiel's that was three warnings for the people of that day. OT NT we have grace, we have the written Word that we can read, all this is different than in those times, but how is God telling us what His plans are? Are we listening to Him for His plans, or do we concern ourselves with our plans while He taries.
The rapture and end times shouldn't be a surprise to believers, so as a believer what is He telling you?
If He tells you the season of it would you live your life differently and in what ways?
In the last verse of ch 19 He says "blessed is Egypt My people, and Assyria the work of My hands, and Israel My inheritance. In Jesus time the major concentration of Jews were in the Euphrates valley (those that did not return from exile, Egypt- a remnant went there to escape the fall of Judah and Jerusalem and were evidently still there, and in Jerusalem and the former nation now under control by Rome. Jesus first coming had the jews in those areas, it is also a foreshadowing of a later time when He comes again.
King Sargon is mentioned as king of Assyria, there was no mention of him in other historical documents except the Bible. When Ninevah was unearthed, then references to a Sargon were found. For some events a specific king or circumstance is mentioned, this is probably a singular prophecy that the people can see (or will see fullfilled near term). Other prophecies are more general, like destruction of Damascus, famine in Egypt, etc. These might seemingly happen a number of times, or be fulfilled in part and later fully completed. Prophecy will happen- God spoke -we have the world, so a God given prophecy is just as sure as the earth we live on.
In looking at a map Assyria is north east of Israel, The Assyrians overthrew the northern kingdom (Israel) part of which was west and northwest of Judah, Aram -Northeast (Damascus), Arabia to the east, Moab to the southeast, Philistia to the southwest, and eventually Egypt to the south. This would mean Judah was surrounded.
Ashdod is a Philistine city (southwest) of Judah, Assyria seemingly forked on both sides of Judah and were about to overun Egypt and Cush. This would have been the only possible ally left for Judah. God told Isaiah to go naked and barefoot for three years as a sign from God that Egypt and Cush (the southern kingdom) would be conquered by Assyria. Alliance was pointless. Just as God used the fate of other nations to show His people that they could only really rely on Him, the lesson is there for us. Only God is able to take care of us. Yet for thousands of years in a fallen state man has been stiff necked and stubborn on this point. One of the resources implied that the prophecy against Egypt was given to discourage a possible Judah and Egypt alliance. He desires us to turn to Him, and a surrounded Judah would have lost any "logical", "worldly" answer.
Their only recourse was to rely on God, and God was faithful, He destroyed the invading Assyrian army. Yet Judah "forgot" and was overun eventually by Babylon.
Before that Isaiah's nakedness is impressive. First of all being naked was a humiliation, just as it would be today. Isaiah was so sold out to God, so trusting, so convinced- he went around naked for three years at God's command. Are we as obedient as he was? Are we willing to risk OUR personal humiliation to be obedient to God?
That kind of obedience to God did not prevent Judah's ultimate poor decisions and being overun by Babylon. Question -if the church is here to prevent evil or hold it back, and has a track record (in this country anyway) of being full of people who aren't as obedient to God as Isaiah was, why does it need to be removed prior to the tribulation period? The church that I see is not acting on enough faith to prevent the rise of anti-Christ. In fact it could be argued that in the state of our affairs, we are promoting it. On change.gov the president elect is outlining his plans, one of the comments posted was by a woman who saw this "change" as a way to be "involved in something beyond herself". As a US citizen, i'm sure she is familiar with the church. Did we get too selfish, and lose our message? Are we now?
Her comment implies that people are hungry (longing), and what the church seems to be offering is not what they are looking for. Strife, splits, of course we as people tend to see the bad.
People in Judah will run from God, and try to avoid the pain they see coming. People do that in their lives as well. How shall we escape? We cannot avoid God not ultimately, yes we deny, we try to hide, but as people seek worldly answers to their desire to run from God or not face Him- He will bring them to a point where there is one conclusion.
Chapter 21
Its interesting that we see in previous chapters the advance of the Assyrians, the temptation to seek logical wordly answers, to run and hide, and the general inclination of people NOT to turn to or rely on God. Now we see a prophecy concerning Babylon. Historically the Babylons overthrew the Assyrians and then were overthrown by the Medes and Persians. So in the midst of dealing (or trying to with the immediate threat) God gives Isaiah a prophecy concerning the future. This shows that God is out in our futures, too often we are to nearsighted- or look to near term.
Wilderness of the sea- Babylon became a city of rivers and canals in the desert.
lay seige Media- Medes- not very well known
God is making an end to Babylon, He used them to punish the Assyrians but pride took over. They became terrifying
verse 5 the night Babylon is overun they are having a party (Daniel 5).
Watchtowers and watchmen- looking for attack, being a warning to the city. Fallen is Babylon- something that seemingly was invincible is now no more. The Assyrians seemed that way, the Babylonians would also. All are in God's Hands.
Oh my threshed people- interesting vision. Wheat muat be threshed (trampled) to expose the grain. I see this as an example of God within us, and we often hide Him. So He allows us to be trampled - overrun, invaded. Our false or human shell can't hold up to this so it cracks and breaks exposing God in us. Then we are winnowed - the seed (good part) and the chaff (bad part are thrown into the air and the chaff blows away- no weight. So His threshed people - its part of a process to allow us to come to know Him. That is His goal- relationship with Him and not necessarily our comfort, security, and health- the things most often prayed for. His goal should be our goal- regardless of circumstance.
V10- he writes and reiterates that this prophecy came from God. Its the message He had for them. In a time of Assyrian threat a prophecy on Babylon is given- how easy it would be to jump to the conclusion that God doesn't care, He isn't aware of our immediate needs.
Oracles about Edom and Arabia. Edom -southeast of dead sea and Judah, Arabia -east of Jordan river in the desert. Edom rejoiced at the fall of Israel and had been a constant enemy of Israel. Seir is another name for Edom. Obadiah foretells the destruction of Edom. Are we glad when bad things happen to those we consider enemies? Do we desire that? In terms of Arabia the towns mentioned are part of trade routes- destruction within a year.
Chapter 20
Additional note on Damascus, Aram (Damascus) and Israel aligned themselves against Judah, but were both swept away by Assryia. Damascus no longer being a city may point to a future time or that it was destroyed and later rebuilt.
Ethiopia - from that chapter (Cush) was actually a southern kingdom of Egypt, and was in control of Egypt at the time Isaiah was talking about. This was why they were important.
Egypt was prophesied to have anarchy (civil war), internal strife and be conquered. The Assyrians did this, so it has happened at least once. It was recorded by Jeremiah (46) and Ezekiel (29). With Isaiah's prophecy, Jeremiah's and Ezekiel's that was three warnings for the people of that day. OT NT we have grace, we have the written Word that we can read, all this is different than in those times, but how is God telling us what His plans are? Are we listening to Him for His plans, or do we concern ourselves with our plans while He taries.
The rapture and end times shouldn't be a surprise to believers, so as a believer what is He telling you?
If He tells you the season of it would you live your life differently and in what ways?
In the last verse of ch 19 He says "blessed is Egypt My people, and Assyria the work of My hands, and Israel My inheritance. In Jesus time the major concentration of Jews were in the Euphrates valley (those that did not return from exile, Egypt- a remnant went there to escape the fall of Judah and Jerusalem and were evidently still there, and in Jerusalem and the former nation now under control by Rome. Jesus first coming had the jews in those areas, it is also a foreshadowing of a later time when He comes again.
King Sargon is mentioned as king of Assyria, there was no mention of him in other historical documents except the Bible. When Ninevah was unearthed, then references to a Sargon were found. For some events a specific king or circumstance is mentioned, this is probably a singular prophecy that the people can see (or will see fullfilled near term). Other prophecies are more general, like destruction of Damascus, famine in Egypt, etc. These might seemingly happen a number of times, or be fulfilled in part and later fully completed. Prophecy will happen- God spoke -we have the world, so a God given prophecy is just as sure as the earth we live on.
In looking at a map Assyria is north east of Israel, The Assyrians overthrew the northern kingdom (Israel) part of which was west and northwest of Judah, Aram -Northeast (Damascus), Arabia to the east, Moab to the southeast, Philistia to the southwest, and eventually Egypt to the south. This would mean Judah was surrounded.
Ashdod is a Philistine city (southwest) of Judah, Assyria seemingly forked on both sides of Judah and were about to overun Egypt and Cush. This would have been the only possible ally left for Judah. God told Isaiah to go naked and barefoot for three years as a sign from God that Egypt and Cush (the southern kingdom) would be conquered by Assyria. Alliance was pointless. Just as God used the fate of other nations to show His people that they could only really rely on Him, the lesson is there for us. Only God is able to take care of us. Yet for thousands of years in a fallen state man has been stiff necked and stubborn on this point. One of the resources implied that the prophecy against Egypt was given to discourage a possible Judah and Egypt alliance. He desires us to turn to Him, and a surrounded Judah would have lost any "logical", "worldly" answer.
Their only recourse was to rely on God, and God was faithful, He destroyed the invading Assyrian army. Yet Judah "forgot" and was overun eventually by Babylon.
Before that Isaiah's nakedness is impressive. First of all being naked was a humiliation, just as it would be today. Isaiah was so sold out to God, so trusting, so convinced- he went around naked for three years at God's command. Are we as obedient as he was? Are we willing to risk OUR personal humiliation to be obedient to God?
That kind of obedience to God did not prevent Judah's ultimate poor decisions and being overun by Babylon. Question -if the church is here to prevent evil or hold it back, and has a track record (in this country anyway) of being full of people who aren't as obedient to God as Isaiah was, why does it need to be removed prior to the tribulation period? The church that I see is not acting on enough faith to prevent the rise of anti-Christ. In fact it could be argued that in the state of our affairs, we are promoting it. On change.gov the president elect is outlining his plans, one of the comments posted was by a woman who saw this "change" as a way to be "involved in something beyond herself". As a US citizen, i'm sure she is familiar with the church. Did we get too selfish, and lose our message? Are we now?
Her comment implies that people are hungry (longing), and what the church seems to be offering is not what they are looking for. Strife, splits, of course we as people tend to see the bad.
People in Judah will run from God, and try to avoid the pain they see coming. People do that in their lives as well. How shall we escape? We cannot avoid God not ultimately, yes we deny, we try to hide, but as people seek worldly answers to their desire to run from God or not face Him- He will bring them to a point where there is one conclusion.
Chapter 21
Its interesting that we see in previous chapters the advance of the Assyrians, the temptation to seek logical wordly answers, to run and hide, and the general inclination of people NOT to turn to or rely on God. Now we see a prophecy concerning Babylon. Historically the Babylons overthrew the Assyrians and then were overthrown by the Medes and Persians. So in the midst of dealing (or trying to with the immediate threat) God gives Isaiah a prophecy concerning the future. This shows that God is out in our futures, too often we are to nearsighted- or look to near term.
Wilderness of the sea- Babylon became a city of rivers and canals in the desert.
lay seige Media- Medes- not very well known
God is making an end to Babylon, He used them to punish the Assyrians but pride took over. They became terrifying
verse 5 the night Babylon is overun they are having a party (Daniel 5).
Watchtowers and watchmen- looking for attack, being a warning to the city. Fallen is Babylon- something that seemingly was invincible is now no more. The Assyrians seemed that way, the Babylonians would also. All are in God's Hands.
Oh my threshed people- interesting vision. Wheat muat be threshed (trampled) to expose the grain. I see this as an example of God within us, and we often hide Him. So He allows us to be trampled - overrun, invaded. Our false or human shell can't hold up to this so it cracks and breaks exposing God in us. Then we are winnowed - the seed (good part) and the chaff (bad part are thrown into the air and the chaff blows away- no weight. So His threshed people - its part of a process to allow us to come to know Him. That is His goal- relationship with Him and not necessarily our comfort, security, and health- the things most often prayed for. His goal should be our goal- regardless of circumstance.
V10- he writes and reiterates that this prophecy came from God. Its the message He had for them. In a time of Assyrian threat a prophecy on Babylon is given- how easy it would be to jump to the conclusion that God doesn't care, He isn't aware of our immediate needs.
Oracles about Edom and Arabia. Edom -southeast of dead sea and Judah, Arabia -east of Jordan river in the desert. Edom rejoiced at the fall of Israel and had been a constant enemy of Israel. Seir is another name for Edom. Obadiah foretells the destruction of Edom. Are we glad when bad things happen to those we consider enemies? Do we desire that? In terms of Arabia the towns mentioned are part of trade routes- destruction within a year.
November 12, 2008 notes on Isaiah Bible study class
Thoughts after the last class- why was Moab included in this book? God is telling Isaiah and the people following/reading him of a prophecy that they will see come true. The destruction of Moab- the Assyrians took it over. This will be followed by other prophecies some of which have not come true yet.
Chapter 16
Continued destruction of Moab from pride and arrogance. Actually a very small remnant will be left, the nation will be degraded and impotent. During the destruction refugees would send tribute to Judah asking for protection in Isaiah 16:3-5, and they should not be turned away. Even though these people were not always nice to the Jews, when they call out it is in the nature of God (and the judge who will sit in faithfulness in the tent of David) to accept these people in need and crying out. We should pray that God will stir the hearts of people and change their minds to agree with His. We shouldn't give them "plenty of rope" so they can hang themselves. This is especially true in praying for our leaders- even if we didn't vote for them. Even those seemingly "opposed to us" is God using them to show us something, or is He using us to show them something?
Verse 12 Moab will weary himself in his high place, and his sanctuary, but what has been spoken of the Lord will come to pass. In crisis we turn to our gods, it needs to be God, if He has said something we don't like, we need to submit to Him and get with His program.
This prophecy was given three years before it happened, and verse 14 said it would happen in three years. The Assyrians degraded Moab. People heard the prophecy from Isaiah, and saw it happen. This one the people of his day witnessed.
Is God showing us in His own way today what is about to happen in terms to reassure us of what He plans to do in the future?
Chapter 17
Damascus is about to be removed from being a city. Still exists as a city, destroyed and rebuilt?, destroyed permanenetly at some future date?
Damascus conquered and a lean israel conquered- probably the Assyrian invasion that was about to happen.
v7- in that day man will have regard for his Maker. Hard times bring about revival, people turn "eventually" to Jesus and God, often after realizing the pointlessness of other "gods". Where do you turn first in crisis?
Strong cities will be like forsaken places in the forest- ruined? deserted?
God was forgotten- a sure sign that hard times are on the way. In that day it meant they would be overrun.
They put a lot of effort into what they wanted. They sowed very little for God, or sowed the wrong things. Therefore their harvest was a heap of sickliness and incurable pain. What do we put into God's plan, and if we realize God isn't in it- it isn't His plan.
Many nations come together (Assyrians? or later). God will rebuke them and they will flee
At evening they will be a terror, in the morning they will be no more 2Kings 19:35 the way it happened.
Ch 18
Message to Ethiopia (Cush) Assyria was on the way, and they were trying to make alliances to repel them. Hence messengers. Alliances of nations to repel a threat - modern day NATO. Ethiopia was seeking safety through alliances and we would generally agree the world is "safer" with us being a part of NATO.
Other ways we seek "safety" and "security"
Government- laws and legislation, but government can't change hearts- people by nature are selfish
Science - we figure out the way God makes things work (or better He shows us that knowledge) and through our own pride we think we can predict and control events without Him
Education - we seek knowledge as a way to obtain a secure future. Knowledge comes from God, and only through Him is our future secure.
Medical care- "medicines improve our quality of life" - do they? Or is quality of life found in how closely we follow the Lord's leading.
Financial system -the economy, the more money we have the more secure we are. "We have to rescue the economy or our world will be miserable"
Alliances and security and safety can fail- our safety and security is given by God apart from what we might do. Its a gift from Him to us.
Verse three- what God ordains will happen. Judah rejected an alliance with Cush because they were going to rely on the Lord. Exactly what we need to be doing today. This verse also pertains to a future time when the entire world will see God coming to implement His plan in person. Our plans will fail, and His will succeeed.
Beth Moore- the morning I wrote this had a 5 minute message on the radio. What God has given us He has ordained to. What He has witheld from us He means to. It will be glorious when we see how He will work out situations (pastors at this church- a prime example), He is after all in control. As she said He has no "oops" moments.
Now the coming of the army or the coming of the end times? could be both - spring time to give birds of prey the summer to feed on the dead - lots of turkey vultures in the future.
I love the way it talks about pruning vines and cut away spreading branches. A spreading branch is going out on its own in a new direction, different from the main Branch.
People will learn the lesson of Isaiah 18 the hard way probably and bring gifts to the Lord. After being struck down they will realize it isn't out of meanness or cruelty but rather out of love a correction for going in a direction our creator doesn't want us to. Pray our pride and stubbornness is reduced to the point that we will bend (without breaking) in the direction He wants us to go.
Ch 19
The Lord will come to Egypt, and the Idols will tremble at His presence (earthquake). There will be fear as the Egyptians realize who God is. Civil war will break out and they will be demoralized and turn to idols- again what/who/Who people rely on they turn to in crisis. Ghosts of the dead spiritists and mediums- we always feel like if someone can come back from the dead and show us what is on the other side we could get some answers. The devil can pretend to be the person gone (he certainly knows of their life), and fool those seeking that into bad decisions. Yet they will have a cruel master.
Severe drought is described, climate change? The economy -fisherman and weavers affected. Pharoah will seek his wisest advisors council, and yet if God isn't involved in the advice, the advice is stupid, and worthless. Yet people will put stock in such advice. Sometimes God's advice may seem foolish by the world's standards, but if we consider the source and rely on it, it will be good advice. Interesting - seemingly good advice comes from those who don't know what they are doing, and seemingly not so good advice comes from Him who is in control. What advice are we following?
The Lord had a plan - just exactly what He wanted to happen to Egypt, but rather than realize and abide by His plan, they follow distortion, and stagger in their own vomit.
No work for Egypt (the economy dead?), a weakened nation - not the power it once was. Trembling and weak, Judah (another nation) will become a terror to them. It is fulfilling the Lord's purpose. Part of their nation will be taken- like another country.
The people will turn to God (in the midst of oppression, invasion, hard economic times, and drought). Sometimes that is what it takes.
He will deliver them and send them a Savior (Jesus). They will make vows to the Lord (verbal) then perform it (action).
The Lord strikes, but heals, bringing people to Himself. Egypt Assyria has a highway between - freely interact. Both Assyria and Egypt will worship the Lord. Israel will join them, and the three will be a blessing in the midst of the earth.
Isaiah quotes the Lord as saying : Egypt are His people, Assyria is the work of His hands, and Israel is His inheritance.
Different become one- the theme that has been brought up before.
Thoughts after the last class- why was Moab included in this book? God is telling Isaiah and the people following/reading him of a prophecy that they will see come true. The destruction of Moab- the Assyrians took it over. This will be followed by other prophecies some of which have not come true yet.
Chapter 16
Continued destruction of Moab from pride and arrogance. Actually a very small remnant will be left, the nation will be degraded and impotent. During the destruction refugees would send tribute to Judah asking for protection in Isaiah 16:3-5, and they should not be turned away. Even though these people were not always nice to the Jews, when they call out it is in the nature of God (and the judge who will sit in faithfulness in the tent of David) to accept these people in need and crying out. We should pray that God will stir the hearts of people and change their minds to agree with His. We shouldn't give them "plenty of rope" so they can hang themselves. This is especially true in praying for our leaders- even if we didn't vote for them. Even those seemingly "opposed to us" is God using them to show us something, or is He using us to show them something?
Verse 12 Moab will weary himself in his high place, and his sanctuary, but what has been spoken of the Lord will come to pass. In crisis we turn to our gods, it needs to be God, if He has said something we don't like, we need to submit to Him and get with His program.
This prophecy was given three years before it happened, and verse 14 said it would happen in three years. The Assyrians degraded Moab. People heard the prophecy from Isaiah, and saw it happen. This one the people of his day witnessed.
Is God showing us in His own way today what is about to happen in terms to reassure us of what He plans to do in the future?
Chapter 17
Damascus is about to be removed from being a city. Still exists as a city, destroyed and rebuilt?, destroyed permanenetly at some future date?
Damascus conquered and a lean israel conquered- probably the Assyrian invasion that was about to happen.
v7- in that day man will have regard for his Maker. Hard times bring about revival, people turn "eventually" to Jesus and God, often after realizing the pointlessness of other "gods". Where do you turn first in crisis?
Strong cities will be like forsaken places in the forest- ruined? deserted?
God was forgotten- a sure sign that hard times are on the way. In that day it meant they would be overrun.
They put a lot of effort into what they wanted. They sowed very little for God, or sowed the wrong things. Therefore their harvest was a heap of sickliness and incurable pain. What do we put into God's plan, and if we realize God isn't in it- it isn't His plan.
Many nations come together (Assyrians? or later). God will rebuke them and they will flee
At evening they will be a terror, in the morning they will be no more 2Kings 19:35 the way it happened.
Ch 18
Message to Ethiopia (Cush) Assyria was on the way, and they were trying to make alliances to repel them. Hence messengers. Alliances of nations to repel a threat - modern day NATO. Ethiopia was seeking safety through alliances and we would generally agree the world is "safer" with us being a part of NATO.
Other ways we seek "safety" and "security"
Government- laws and legislation, but government can't change hearts- people by nature are selfish
Science - we figure out the way God makes things work (or better He shows us that knowledge) and through our own pride we think we can predict and control events without Him
Education - we seek knowledge as a way to obtain a secure future. Knowledge comes from God, and only through Him is our future secure.
Medical care- "medicines improve our quality of life" - do they? Or is quality of life found in how closely we follow the Lord's leading.
Financial system -the economy, the more money we have the more secure we are. "We have to rescue the economy or our world will be miserable"
Alliances and security and safety can fail- our safety and security is given by God apart from what we might do. Its a gift from Him to us.
Verse three- what God ordains will happen. Judah rejected an alliance with Cush because they were going to rely on the Lord. Exactly what we need to be doing today. This verse also pertains to a future time when the entire world will see God coming to implement His plan in person. Our plans will fail, and His will succeeed.
Beth Moore- the morning I wrote this had a 5 minute message on the radio. What God has given us He has ordained to. What He has witheld from us He means to. It will be glorious when we see how He will work out situations (pastors at this church- a prime example), He is after all in control. As she said He has no "oops" moments.
Now the coming of the army or the coming of the end times? could be both - spring time to give birds of prey the summer to feed on the dead - lots of turkey vultures in the future.
I love the way it talks about pruning vines and cut away spreading branches. A spreading branch is going out on its own in a new direction, different from the main Branch.
People will learn the lesson of Isaiah 18 the hard way probably and bring gifts to the Lord. After being struck down they will realize it isn't out of meanness or cruelty but rather out of love a correction for going in a direction our creator doesn't want us to. Pray our pride and stubbornness is reduced to the point that we will bend (without breaking) in the direction He wants us to go.
Ch 19
The Lord will come to Egypt, and the Idols will tremble at His presence (earthquake). There will be fear as the Egyptians realize who God is. Civil war will break out and they will be demoralized and turn to idols- again what/who/Who people rely on they turn to in crisis. Ghosts of the dead spiritists and mediums- we always feel like if someone can come back from the dead and show us what is on the other side we could get some answers. The devil can pretend to be the person gone (he certainly knows of their life), and fool those seeking that into bad decisions. Yet they will have a cruel master.
Severe drought is described, climate change? The economy -fisherman and weavers affected. Pharoah will seek his wisest advisors council, and yet if God isn't involved in the advice, the advice is stupid, and worthless. Yet people will put stock in such advice. Sometimes God's advice may seem foolish by the world's standards, but if we consider the source and rely on it, it will be good advice. Interesting - seemingly good advice comes from those who don't know what they are doing, and seemingly not so good advice comes from Him who is in control. What advice are we following?
The Lord had a plan - just exactly what He wanted to happen to Egypt, but rather than realize and abide by His plan, they follow distortion, and stagger in their own vomit.
No work for Egypt (the economy dead?), a weakened nation - not the power it once was. Trembling and weak, Judah (another nation) will become a terror to them. It is fulfilling the Lord's purpose. Part of their nation will be taken- like another country.
The people will turn to God (in the midst of oppression, invasion, hard economic times, and drought). Sometimes that is what it takes.
He will deliver them and send them a Savior (Jesus). They will make vows to the Lord (verbal) then perform it (action).
The Lord strikes, but heals, bringing people to Himself. Egypt Assyria has a highway between - freely interact. Both Assyria and Egypt will worship the Lord. Israel will join them, and the three will be a blessing in the midst of the earth.
Isaiah quotes the Lord as saying : Egypt are His people, Assyria is the work of His hands, and Israel is His inheritance.
Different become one- the theme that has been brought up before.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Notes gone over Nov 5, 2008 in Isaiah Bible study
Chapter 12
I will give thanks to the Lord, for although You were angry with me, Your anger is turned away and You comfort me. If we have a concept of God that is nearly correct and we think He is mad at us - wouldn't we fear Him. Aren't kids afraid sometimes of their parents because they realize they have been disobedient- so they fear. Yet God like parents still want the best for His children. He is our salvation (Jesus being part of God), we come to trust and not be afraid - initial fear becomes trust- Trust comes from realizing God is true to His Word. We have to learn that God has our best interests at heart (which is often not what we want). I can tell students something, and they can repeat it, maybe memorize it, but only with experience (seeing that I wasn't trying to deceive them) does it become real. I can give assignments, but only in time do they realize the importance of those assignments. Once we realize He has our best interest at heart we will recognize God's actions in our lives (often looking back)- we can see them. We can (but do we) tell others so that they learn to look- or remind them so they consider His working in their lives. We are called to -"make" them remember how we exalt God -it takes continual effort. Its a natural outpouring of our filling ourselves with Him.
Chapter 13
Prophecies against other countries. Isaiah was given prophecies concerning countries that had not even risen to power yet, in tremendous detail, and about the fates of the surrounding nations (10 chapters worth). He will show us things if we are obedient and seek Him.
Isaiah wrote this 100 years before the rise of the Babylonian empire. Assyria was the dominant power at the time of the writing, and Isaiah foresaw the decline of Assyria, and the rise and fall of Babylon. Babylon only in power 70 years- interestingly. Yet the detail that God gave Isaiah is just as if he was there. Detail detail detail. He named the Medes as the destroyers of Babylon, and yet in his day the Medes were barely known. Babylon overthrown meant the exile of the Jews was ended.
v3- we're instruments (v5) in His hands. If we follow Him He uses us, if we don't He will use our nature as well to accomplish His purposes.
v8 judgement day- fear- will it turn to trust- will there be a great conversion - for those willing to repent?
v9 exterminate sinners, punish world for its evil, and wicked for iniquity, end the arrogance of the proud, abase the haughtiness (scornfully and condescendingly proud - the Pharisee's prayer I thank you God that I am not a sinner like that man) of the ruthless (cold and uncaring about others) - His desire is that all will come to know Him- we need to have that desire as well.
-mortal man will become scarcer than gold- we are so full of these things - without Christ.
Rise of Babylon, the judgement day (day of the Lord), then back to the actual taking of Judah by the Babylonians, finally the fall of Babylon. It will be deserted- not inhabited. One day God will make such that sin will never be a place we can go again- just like we could never live in Sodom and Gomorrah. He kicked man out of the garden and guarded its gates- only through Him can we come back into it.
Chapter 14
After describing the destruction of Israel and Judah, Isaiah talks of a time when the Lord will have compassion on the jews again and listen to them and restore them to their land. They will be in control to the point that strangers with them will be subject to their decisions. This happened after the fall of Babylon, it happened in 1948. Israel will taunt Babylon (a destroyed nation, but also a symbol of future times). They will acknowledge it was the Lord that delivered them. For a nation to do that they will have to see an overwhelming force coming against them- personnally. Others will join the Israelites- their influence will be a blessing God will bless the world through them.
Babylon because of their nature was an instrument of God to punish the Jews for their disobedience and pride. They only had power to do that as God gave it to them, and the power only lasted as long as God intended it to.
In doing the Lord's work in that fashion Babylon became proud. Nebuchadnezzar- lost his mind for 7 years as a result of his great pride and in claiming what God has done as his own. Actually he was "given the mind of a beast". The tribulation period is 7 yrs long, and will come about when the world feels it no longer needs God. Another unifying world leader will arise - and be given the mind of a beast due to his pride. Nebuchadnezzar was a man full of pride at "his" accomplishments- that were really gifts from the Lord. Nebuchadnezzar lost his kingdom for the seven years he had the mind of a beast- anti-christ will rule his kingdom while having the mind of a beast.
v13-21- description of pride- statements of satan- the most proud, and the result of pride. Do we think we have all the answers, are we following God's way or ours? What is our pride level?
We live in a world convinced we are so smart, and that we can handle anything that comes up. We have our technology - which is a gift from God, we have our doctors and other learned people we expect to be able to solve our problems- gained knowledge is a gift from God but seldom acknowledged. Few if any of leaders even acknowledge the importance of God in their lives - out of political correctness or the prideful attitude of self sufficiency - I don't know which. All we need is a charismatic leader (interestingly the "world" is watching our presidential election, and one of our candidates is very popular worldwide), and a severe problem he will seem to successfully deal with.
Getting back on topic- the Jews very existence are a taunt to pride and this mindset that we are self sufficient. We separate church and state to the point that state has become a religion of denying God- not what was intended.
Separation of church and state is only about not mandating religious views- its an individual and personal choice. Blue laws may give the impression of Godliness, but does it change hearts? It doesn't mean our leaders can't be openly confessing Christians who acknowledge God and seek His guidance. When was the last time we had one that really did that?
Christians are persecuted for their beliefs. For thousands of years Jews have been recognized as God's chosen people, so to be able to deny God and do our own thing that race presents a problem. Acknowledging them acknowledges God -our creator. It goes hand in hand that those who want to deny God will hate Israel and deny their heritage and "chosen" status. To take over and deny God ultimately will mean that nation must be annihilated- the anti-christ will try.
End of chapter 14, Babylon will be judged, Assyria will be broken - which actually happens first. Philistia will be judged. Verse thirty is of interest - the most helpless will eat, needy will lie down in security. Those that know their true condition before God as His people. Blessed by God, but living a very fragile existence, and not having all the answers.
Chapter 15
Chapter 14 talked about Israel being God's chosen people - as a race. God however judges everyone individually. He categorizes them by race but He takes people as individuals. It is easy to fall into the trap of:
all Israelis will be saved (taking them as a race and not individuals). God in fact sent His wrath and judgement against Israel when the pride of the collective people reached a certain level. He however protected those individuals who had a right relationship.
When God acts against the sin of a collective group of people, He protects those that acknowledge Him. The example of Sodom and Gommorrah and not destroying the entire city if only a few righteous remain is an emphasis of that fact. He sent judgement on Sodom and Gommorah but evacuated those in right relationship first.
A truly repentant God fearing person has actions and not just words or lip service of their condition.
Is it right to categorize what people commonly profess- like being Muslim, Bhuddist, Hindu, etc? Some religions believe those that don't believe as they do should be killed "infidels", but we as Christians realize that God has given breath to those people, and numbered their days- just like us. He doesn't need help if He wanted them dead, so we should pray for them and live out our faith by our words and deeds.
Chapter 15 is about Moab. Lot's daughters had children by their own father and Moab was the offspring of the older daughter. Its beautiful that Ruth who wound up in the lineage of Jesus was a Moabite or a descendant of Moab. Ruth was great grandmother of king David. Again God looks at individuals, even though at times it seems He has decreed the destruction of a race. I would say He knows better than all those who would second guess Him what the heart condition was of those people.
Moab it is prophesized will be destroyed. They had invaded Israel in earlier times, and fought against king Saul and king David.
Chapter 12
I will give thanks to the Lord, for although You were angry with me, Your anger is turned away and You comfort me. If we have a concept of God that is nearly correct and we think He is mad at us - wouldn't we fear Him. Aren't kids afraid sometimes of their parents because they realize they have been disobedient- so they fear. Yet God like parents still want the best for His children. He is our salvation (Jesus being part of God), we come to trust and not be afraid - initial fear becomes trust- Trust comes from realizing God is true to His Word. We have to learn that God has our best interests at heart (which is often not what we want). I can tell students something, and they can repeat it, maybe memorize it, but only with experience (seeing that I wasn't trying to deceive them) does it become real. I can give assignments, but only in time do they realize the importance of those assignments. Once we realize He has our best interest at heart we will recognize God's actions in our lives (often looking back)- we can see them. We can (but do we) tell others so that they learn to look- or remind them so they consider His working in their lives. We are called to -"make" them remember how we exalt God -it takes continual effort. Its a natural outpouring of our filling ourselves with Him.
Chapter 13
Prophecies against other countries. Isaiah was given prophecies concerning countries that had not even risen to power yet, in tremendous detail, and about the fates of the surrounding nations (10 chapters worth). He will show us things if we are obedient and seek Him.
Isaiah wrote this 100 years before the rise of the Babylonian empire. Assyria was the dominant power at the time of the writing, and Isaiah foresaw the decline of Assyria, and the rise and fall of Babylon. Babylon only in power 70 years- interestingly. Yet the detail that God gave Isaiah is just as if he was there. Detail detail detail. He named the Medes as the destroyers of Babylon, and yet in his day the Medes were barely known. Babylon overthrown meant the exile of the Jews was ended.
v3- we're instruments (v5) in His hands. If we follow Him He uses us, if we don't He will use our nature as well to accomplish His purposes.
v8 judgement day- fear- will it turn to trust- will there be a great conversion - for those willing to repent?
v9 exterminate sinners, punish world for its evil, and wicked for iniquity, end the arrogance of the proud, abase the haughtiness (scornfully and condescendingly proud - the Pharisee's prayer I thank you God that I am not a sinner like that man) of the ruthless (cold and uncaring about others) - His desire is that all will come to know Him- we need to have that desire as well.
-mortal man will become scarcer than gold- we are so full of these things - without Christ.
Rise of Babylon, the judgement day (day of the Lord), then back to the actual taking of Judah by the Babylonians, finally the fall of Babylon. It will be deserted- not inhabited. One day God will make such that sin will never be a place we can go again- just like we could never live in Sodom and Gomorrah. He kicked man out of the garden and guarded its gates- only through Him can we come back into it.
Chapter 14
After describing the destruction of Israel and Judah, Isaiah talks of a time when the Lord will have compassion on the jews again and listen to them and restore them to their land. They will be in control to the point that strangers with them will be subject to their decisions. This happened after the fall of Babylon, it happened in 1948. Israel will taunt Babylon (a destroyed nation, but also a symbol of future times). They will acknowledge it was the Lord that delivered them. For a nation to do that they will have to see an overwhelming force coming against them- personnally. Others will join the Israelites- their influence will be a blessing God will bless the world through them.
Babylon because of their nature was an instrument of God to punish the Jews for their disobedience and pride. They only had power to do that as God gave it to them, and the power only lasted as long as God intended it to.
In doing the Lord's work in that fashion Babylon became proud. Nebuchadnezzar- lost his mind for 7 years as a result of his great pride and in claiming what God has done as his own. Actually he was "given the mind of a beast". The tribulation period is 7 yrs long, and will come about when the world feels it no longer needs God. Another unifying world leader will arise - and be given the mind of a beast due to his pride. Nebuchadnezzar was a man full of pride at "his" accomplishments- that were really gifts from the Lord. Nebuchadnezzar lost his kingdom for the seven years he had the mind of a beast- anti-christ will rule his kingdom while having the mind of a beast.
v13-21- description of pride- statements of satan- the most proud, and the result of pride. Do we think we have all the answers, are we following God's way or ours? What is our pride level?
We live in a world convinced we are so smart, and that we can handle anything that comes up. We have our technology - which is a gift from God, we have our doctors and other learned people we expect to be able to solve our problems- gained knowledge is a gift from God but seldom acknowledged. Few if any of leaders even acknowledge the importance of God in their lives - out of political correctness or the prideful attitude of self sufficiency - I don't know which. All we need is a charismatic leader (interestingly the "world" is watching our presidential election, and one of our candidates is very popular worldwide), and a severe problem he will seem to successfully deal with.
Getting back on topic- the Jews very existence are a taunt to pride and this mindset that we are self sufficient. We separate church and state to the point that state has become a religion of denying God- not what was intended.
Separation of church and state is only about not mandating religious views- its an individual and personal choice. Blue laws may give the impression of Godliness, but does it change hearts? It doesn't mean our leaders can't be openly confessing Christians who acknowledge God and seek His guidance. When was the last time we had one that really did that?
Christians are persecuted for their beliefs. For thousands of years Jews have been recognized as God's chosen people, so to be able to deny God and do our own thing that race presents a problem. Acknowledging them acknowledges God -our creator. It goes hand in hand that those who want to deny God will hate Israel and deny their heritage and "chosen" status. To take over and deny God ultimately will mean that nation must be annihilated- the anti-christ will try.
End of chapter 14, Babylon will be judged, Assyria will be broken - which actually happens first. Philistia will be judged. Verse thirty is of interest - the most helpless will eat, needy will lie down in security. Those that know their true condition before God as His people. Blessed by God, but living a very fragile existence, and not having all the answers.
Chapter 15
Chapter 14 talked about Israel being God's chosen people - as a race. God however judges everyone individually. He categorizes them by race but He takes people as individuals. It is easy to fall into the trap of:
all Israelis will be saved (taking them as a race and not individuals). God in fact sent His wrath and judgement against Israel when the pride of the collective people reached a certain level. He however protected those individuals who had a right relationship.
When God acts against the sin of a collective group of people, He protects those that acknowledge Him. The example of Sodom and Gommorrah and not destroying the entire city if only a few righteous remain is an emphasis of that fact. He sent judgement on Sodom and Gommorah but evacuated those in right relationship first.
A truly repentant God fearing person has actions and not just words or lip service of their condition.
Is it right to categorize what people commonly profess- like being Muslim, Bhuddist, Hindu, etc? Some religions believe those that don't believe as they do should be killed "infidels", but we as Christians realize that God has given breath to those people, and numbered their days- just like us. He doesn't need help if He wanted them dead, so we should pray for them and live out our faith by our words and deeds.
Chapter 15 is about Moab. Lot's daughters had children by their own father and Moab was the offspring of the older daughter. Its beautiful that Ruth who wound up in the lineage of Jesus was a Moabite or a descendant of Moab. Ruth was great grandmother of king David. Again God looks at individuals, even though at times it seems He has decreed the destruction of a race. I would say He knows better than all those who would second guess Him what the heart condition was of those people.
Moab it is prophesized will be destroyed. They had invaded Israel in earlier times, and fought against king Saul and king David.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Isaiah 8:11
God told Isaiah not to walk saying it is a conspiracy- don't fear what people fear, or dread it. Regard the Lord as Holy and fear Him, dread Him, then out of the fear and dread you will see Him as a sanctuary (a protector) once we get with His plan and not our own. We will realize He wants the best for us. Many will stumble at this step- holding onto selfish desires, or personal wants
Bind up the testimony is God saying these words will be preserved for future generations (us here tonight). We must faithfully pass this teaching on.
The Lord is hiding His face from Jacob, but we should look for Him (eagerly)- some of the prophecies he was given have not been fulfilled- are we willing to trust and wait? Isaiah's children are signs and wonders actions that he believed what God had given him.
What happens- people want to know the future but won't ask God. They go to spiritists and mediums when they should consult God. If people don't agree with Isaiah's word inspired by God they have no dawn (dead chicken). These will be the same that suffer famine and curse God, blaming Him for all their problems. He wants to be their sanctuary though.
Shear-jashub -son of Isaiah Mentioned in Ch 7. Means a remnant shall return. Even though the judgment of Judah is being delayed a promise that a remnant will survive is promised. God promises the co-invasion of Judah will fail. He also promised when Judah is judged some would survive. In real terms it probably didn't seem like either was possible. Verse 9 talks about the the coming fall of Judah and Jerusalem- broken and shattered.
Chapter 9
Enough anguish- now a glimpse of a certain future. A land He allows to be treated with contempt will be restored to glory. Verses:2-7 Zebulon and Naphtali were the northern kingdom or Israel, the first to be overrun, but later the place where Christ grew up and started His ministry.
They will be glad in Your presence (3)- joy is found in seeking the Lord and being in His presence (Paul found this joy even in the circumstances of being in prison- have you found it?)
Another reference to Christ- a son born, a child given for us, the government will rest on His shoulders.
Israel is still arrogant and proud (Samaria in particular). They thought they could recover and rebuild in their own strength- they denied God. Or tried to ignore Him. The Lord warned them, and then spurred on their enemies. Their arrogance and pride like ours causes them like us to lose sight that everything they have is from God. Our pride and arrogance now like then cuts off contact with Him.
Even with hard times and invasion they fail to return to God, or seek Him in any way. Their leaders lead them astray causing confusion. Everyone is godless and mouths speak foolishness. After that anarchy breaks out, families are divided, no man spares his brother. A civil war even came about between Ephraim and Manasseh. God waits His hand stretched out. I see that as Him waiting to be sought.
Chapter 10
Woe to enacting evil statutes, unjust decisions,deprive the needy of justice, rob the poor of "My people" of their rights, widows are spoil, orphans are plunder. Taking from the most helpless. Do we do that now?
We can lose everything we have, it is all God's. Like our visitor the other week, seemed to have lost everything. At that point all we can do is crouch among the captives, or fall among the slain. Where would we turn if we lost everything? God is so good to us. He can be angry and yet reach out.
Lord was using Assyria to punish Israel and Judah. He meant for them to be trampled, the Assyrians decided to destroy them. There is a difference there. They lost sight (if they ever realized it) that their military success was a result of God using them for His purpose. So they became arrogant, and arrogant hearts produce the wrong kind of fruit. Listen to the king of Assyria take credit for the success 10:13-14. All the "I" and "my".
God shows us how foolish that is. We are but instruments in His hand, our usefulness comes about based on our submission to His will. If we aren't willing we aren't very useful for the Kingdom. God is going to send a wasting disease- He said it, so it is so. That army is now powerless, although our senses and experience may lead us to believe something different. The Lord will devour the army in a single day, such that a child could count those that survive.
A remnant will however trust in the Lord. They will exercise faith in Him, trusting Him, rather than believing the apparent realities of the invasions and acting accordingly. A list of towns from north to south is listed with Nob being the last one- where the Assyrians will stop- just 2 miles from Jerusalem. An overwhelming army marching relentlessly on- but God said they would stop at this point. They did. Humanly and logically, it wouldn't have seemed possible, but they did.
Another reference ends the chapter of God destroying this army. In the last days nations will unite in a single purpose to destroy Israel, and I think the parallels here are interesting. They may seem to sweep through the country, they may seem to be unstoppable, but God will protect His people, He did it in our past, He does it today, and He will in the future.
Chapter 11
The Righteous branch- a clear pointing to Jesus Christ.
The spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord. He will delight in the fear of the Lord. Interesting that things we fear we run from. Fear could be interpreted as respect.
He will not judge by what His eyes see, - do we judge based on appearance, or seeing an action?
Nor make a decision by what His ears hear - do we form opinions based on what we hear- gossip?
But with righteousness He will judge the poor, and decide with fairness for the afflicted of the earth. Righteousness from God- we should include Him in our decision making process. He should be the center of it.
He will strike the earth and with breath from His lips He will slay the wicked- hasn't happened yet.
Picture of the millennium, the earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the water covers the sea, we will be swimming in it. Wonderful picture.
Israel will swoop down on the slopes of the philistines on the west- west bank you hear about is the area the Philistines controlled, and currently it isn't under Israel's control. They will possess Edom and Moab- current day Jordan? Ammon- subject to them - Jordan. A highway from Assyria - be able to walk from Iraq to Israel.
Oh Lord, we have sinned, we are proud, we are arrogant, and we do not seek You or turn to You. Lord poor out Your spirit on this nation, yea even the world. One of the candidates talked about all the evil in the world, a nugget of truth amongst all the foolishness being spoken. Yet Lord one day knowledge of you will fill the earth like water fills the oceans. Our leaders are leading us astray, anyway other than Yours is astray. Lord we know that evil will not prevail, it is a dead chicken, and Father you are infinitely greater still. Father we confess the mess we made and Lord we long for Your kingdom, Your hope for the hopeless, Your redeeming of the lives You have given us on this earth You have made for us. May Your Kingdom come, our only hope, and may Your will be done. In the name of our Redeemer, who took the nails from us, and for us- Jesus.
Amen
God told Isaiah not to walk saying it is a conspiracy- don't fear what people fear, or dread it. Regard the Lord as Holy and fear Him, dread Him, then out of the fear and dread you will see Him as a sanctuary (a protector) once we get with His plan and not our own. We will realize He wants the best for us. Many will stumble at this step- holding onto selfish desires, or personal wants
Bind up the testimony is God saying these words will be preserved for future generations (us here tonight). We must faithfully pass this teaching on.
The Lord is hiding His face from Jacob, but we should look for Him (eagerly)- some of the prophecies he was given have not been fulfilled- are we willing to trust and wait? Isaiah's children are signs and wonders actions that he believed what God had given him.
What happens- people want to know the future but won't ask God. They go to spiritists and mediums when they should consult God. If people don't agree with Isaiah's word inspired by God they have no dawn (dead chicken). These will be the same that suffer famine and curse God, blaming Him for all their problems. He wants to be their sanctuary though.
Shear-jashub -son of Isaiah Mentioned in Ch 7. Means a remnant shall return. Even though the judgment of Judah is being delayed a promise that a remnant will survive is promised. God promises the co-invasion of Judah will fail. He also promised when Judah is judged some would survive. In real terms it probably didn't seem like either was possible. Verse 9 talks about the the coming fall of Judah and Jerusalem- broken and shattered.
Chapter 9
Enough anguish- now a glimpse of a certain future. A land He allows to be treated with contempt will be restored to glory. Verses:2-7 Zebulon and Naphtali were the northern kingdom or Israel, the first to be overrun, but later the place where Christ grew up and started His ministry.
They will be glad in Your presence (3)- joy is found in seeking the Lord and being in His presence (Paul found this joy even in the circumstances of being in prison- have you found it?)
Another reference to Christ- a son born, a child given for us, the government will rest on His shoulders.
Israel is still arrogant and proud (Samaria in particular). They thought they could recover and rebuild in their own strength- they denied God. Or tried to ignore Him. The Lord warned them, and then spurred on their enemies. Their arrogance and pride like ours causes them like us to lose sight that everything they have is from God. Our pride and arrogance now like then cuts off contact with Him.
Even with hard times and invasion they fail to return to God, or seek Him in any way. Their leaders lead them astray causing confusion. Everyone is godless and mouths speak foolishness. After that anarchy breaks out, families are divided, no man spares his brother. A civil war even came about between Ephraim and Manasseh. God waits His hand stretched out. I see that as Him waiting to be sought.
Chapter 10
Woe to enacting evil statutes, unjust decisions,deprive the needy of justice, rob the poor of "My people" of their rights, widows are spoil, orphans are plunder. Taking from the most helpless. Do we do that now?
We can lose everything we have, it is all God's. Like our visitor the other week, seemed to have lost everything. At that point all we can do is crouch among the captives, or fall among the slain. Where would we turn if we lost everything? God is so good to us. He can be angry and yet reach out.
Lord was using Assyria to punish Israel and Judah. He meant for them to be trampled, the Assyrians decided to destroy them. There is a difference there. They lost sight (if they ever realized it) that their military success was a result of God using them for His purpose. So they became arrogant, and arrogant hearts produce the wrong kind of fruit. Listen to the king of Assyria take credit for the success 10:13-14. All the "I" and "my".
God shows us how foolish that is. We are but instruments in His hand, our usefulness comes about based on our submission to His will. If we aren't willing we aren't very useful for the Kingdom. God is going to send a wasting disease- He said it, so it is so. That army is now powerless, although our senses and experience may lead us to believe something different. The Lord will devour the army in a single day, such that a child could count those that survive.
A remnant will however trust in the Lord. They will exercise faith in Him, trusting Him, rather than believing the apparent realities of the invasions and acting accordingly. A list of towns from north to south is listed with Nob being the last one- where the Assyrians will stop- just 2 miles from Jerusalem. An overwhelming army marching relentlessly on- but God said they would stop at this point. They did. Humanly and logically, it wouldn't have seemed possible, but they did.
Another reference ends the chapter of God destroying this army. In the last days nations will unite in a single purpose to destroy Israel, and I think the parallels here are interesting. They may seem to sweep through the country, they may seem to be unstoppable, but God will protect His people, He did it in our past, He does it today, and He will in the future.
Chapter 11
The Righteous branch- a clear pointing to Jesus Christ.
The spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord. He will delight in the fear of the Lord. Interesting that things we fear we run from. Fear could be interpreted as respect.
He will not judge by what His eyes see, - do we judge based on appearance, or seeing an action?
Nor make a decision by what His ears hear - do we form opinions based on what we hear- gossip?
But with righteousness He will judge the poor, and decide with fairness for the afflicted of the earth. Righteousness from God- we should include Him in our decision making process. He should be the center of it.
He will strike the earth and with breath from His lips He will slay the wicked- hasn't happened yet.
Picture of the millennium, the earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the water covers the sea, we will be swimming in it. Wonderful picture.
Israel will swoop down on the slopes of the philistines on the west- west bank you hear about is the area the Philistines controlled, and currently it isn't under Israel's control. They will possess Edom and Moab- current day Jordan? Ammon- subject to them - Jordan. A highway from Assyria - be able to walk from Iraq to Israel.
Oh Lord, we have sinned, we are proud, we are arrogant, and we do not seek You or turn to You. Lord poor out Your spirit on this nation, yea even the world. One of the candidates talked about all the evil in the world, a nugget of truth amongst all the foolishness being spoken. Yet Lord one day knowledge of you will fill the earth like water fills the oceans. Our leaders are leading us astray, anyway other than Yours is astray. Lord we know that evil will not prevail, it is a dead chicken, and Father you are infinitely greater still. Father we confess the mess we made and Lord we long for Your kingdom, Your hope for the hopeless, Your redeeming of the lives You have given us on this earth You have made for us. May Your Kingdom come, our only hope, and may Your will be done. In the name of our Redeemer, who took the nails from us, and for us- Jesus.
Amen
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
The third week in Isaiah. We had a dazed and confused man come to church, I pray he will be shown help, assesed medically and walk with the Lord. I pray that attitudes are as they should be. Who knows, maybe an angel in disguise.
God those that earnestly seek You will find You. You are our creator and we submit our lives, the ones You gave us back to You Lord. Help us to discern Your voice in our studies, apply what you teach by speaking the words You would have us to, and complete the tasks You desire.
(4) 5:20 -calling good evil and evil good- the reference said that is confusing morals. In this day "morals" is a nebulous topic, I prefer to think that calling evil good or good evil contradicts God. God that everyone can have a relationship with. If when we hear it we ask - have you asked God about that? God who wants a relationship with you, etc. People also make themselves out to be god by deciding for themselves what is moral, the problem here is that they will often pick things convenient for themselves and leave the price of their choices for humanity to pay.
(5) 5:21 goes with 4 conceited or thinking we have all the answers. Its dangerous to trust anyones "knowledge" as absolute. We absolutely need to search the scriptures and let God talk to us individually. Sharing our experiences is a good thing because God does speak to us, and He may confirm what another has said. We need that confirmation.
(6) 5:22-24 Pervert justice and take bribes. This brings about distress, and unkindness, oppression.
24 blossom blow away as dust because they rejected God- there is the dust again. This happened because people despised the Lord, so they were struck down.
Job - His friends thought his calamity was a result of Job's sin. To them it was proof. Rejecting God brings about calamity, but calamity is not a sure sign that a person has rejected God.
The end of Chapter 5 talks about other nations that God used as instruments of carrying out punishment of those that rejected Him. They are at His beck and call. Assyria in this case, but later Babylon, in our day probably the UN.
Chapter 6
This chapter starts out with a definite time stamp, the year of King Uzziah's death (approx 740 BC). This is about 5 years into what is considered his active ministry (745-695 BC). There is a difference of opinion here on several issues: 1st were the visions in earlier chapters before Isaiah's calling, or did he re-arrange his notes? 2nd- was this a record of Isaiah's calling or maybe just a special call for a certain task God had in mind?
King Uzziah was generally considered a good king, he became leporous when he tried to take over the priest duties (2 Chron 26- records his reign).
This vision came from God, was Isaiah made ready to receive this vision out of his anxiety, the clear decline he saw in the nation? Was he depressed, did that make him receptive? One of the 19th century evangelists wrote of his depression episodes, and that he came to realize that depression was a precursor to an act of God. In our day we regard depression as bad, but if it is a precursor to God moving or acting in our lives.....
The vision was a respite for Isaiah from the true conditions he saw, a reassurance.
verse 5 - Isaiah realizes his condition before God, and confesses it. That is the essence of salvation- knowing our condition before God and then accepting His cleansing us from our condition. Another of the witnessing scriptures- Isa 6:5. Isaiah in verse 8 submits to do what God asks, before God tells him the specifics of what he is to do. Submission.
What was Isaiah called to do? Halley's interprets his call to be the bringing about of the final hardening of the nation of Israel. My life application footnotes say he was to preach to a people who believed they were blessed (and they were) that God was going to destroy them due to their disobedience. God warned them one more time through Isaiah, and yet they had so hardened their hearts that destruction became inevitable.
He was sent to preach to a people that did not care to listen, I think the Lord told him they would not listen so he wouldn't get his hopes up. People who hve the gift of exhortation get terribly depressed when they don't see progress or response. He was going to exhort these people to turn back to the Lord (for a long time also- while the land God had given them was slowly overun with invaders) and they were going to ignore him (for that long).
Were these people hardened beyond repentance? God's grace gave them one more chance. Maybe for the group this was the case, but the righteous remnant that we keep hearing about may have gotten larger through Isaiah's ministry. I think the lessons here are don't give up because it looks hopeless (God doesn't give up on us- ever), and don't get your hopes up either (God did give us the freedom to choose).
Chapter 7
Ahaz is king in Judah. (2 Chron 28) a king who did not do right in the sight of the Lord. From 2nd Chronicles- He was 20 when he came to power (ruled by children?) certainly didn't have experience. He made molten images, burned incense, burned sons in fire, sacrificed everywhere.
Was defeated four times, King of Aram (Syria) defeated him, carried off captives.
King of Israel defeated him inflicting many casualties and carried off captives. He lost a son. Israel was going to make slaves of their Jewish brothers but were warned not to. So they let them go.
Syria and Israel decided to join forces to invade Judah again and set up the king of their choosing over Judah. Ahaz was in the royal line of David. Isaiah was told to go to him that this would fail. Which it did, God directly intervened. God told Ahaz if he would not believe he would not last (9)
Instead of believing God (which when considered "logically" looked improbable- Ahaz asked Assyria for help, instead the Assyrians invaded him. Ahaz gave the king of Assyria a portion of the treasures from the Lords house, which was of no help, the Assyrians still attacked him. The shaving of hair is considered total humiliation. Judah's rich farmland would be trampled to the point nothing would grow. God will redeem it.
Ahaz never turned to God, in fact he sacrificed to the gods of the countries that defeated him. Furthermore he closed the temple.
Ahaz was asked by the Lord, for the Lord to give Ahaz a sign. It was the Lord calling Ahaz to Himself. Ahaz refused - his excuse was he didn't want to test the Lord or bother Him. Do we do that? This prevented Ahaz from hearing from the Lord, and of course Ahaz probably knew that in acknowledging God he would have to acknowledge his sin- which had wreaked havoc on Judah.
The sign? Immanuel in the family of David, the future Messiah born of a virgin.
He was however Hezekiah's dad. God protected the line. Promised Messiah- future looking, but also real time the kings Ahaz dreaded would be forsaken (3 years- approximate time from conception of a baby until the baby talks). They were dead chickens- God promised it.
God whistles for fly and bee, these are signs of God's judgement. I also take it as a sign that the greatest armies in the world are powerless without the Lord. The actual judgement is delayed for several more kings after Hezekiah.
Chapter 8
Maher-shalal-hash-baz - The Lord told Isaiah to name his son that, before the boy can speak (conception- to talking - 3 yrs) Syria and Israel will conquered by the king of Assyria. The name means the spoils speeds, the prey hastens (swift is the booty, speedy is the prey), the immediate threat will fail. How often do we name our children based on what God has told us would happen. He was completely sold out. The Lord further told Isaiah that since Israel rejected Him (Shiloah- God's gentle and sustaining care), He would allow the waters of the Euphrates (abundant)- this is the way the Assyrians would sweep into the land. Reaching into Judah all the way to the neck- Jerusalem alone would remain.
Be broken, be shattered (shattered means lose courage). Gird yourselves yet be shattered- repeated. Prepare yourselves, but lose courage. God will have His way- it is best for us. We think we know what is best, and we certainly have our wants and desires, but God truly does know what is best for us.
To close I had a wonderful prayer but didn't use it. I prayed we would submit to God and do what He requests without wanting a preview, even if it is hard as in the case of Isaiah's task. The Lord was with him, and will clearly walk with us every step of the way.
God those that earnestly seek You will find You. You are our creator and we submit our lives, the ones You gave us back to You Lord. Help us to discern Your voice in our studies, apply what you teach by speaking the words You would have us to, and complete the tasks You desire.
(4) 5:20 -calling good evil and evil good- the reference said that is confusing morals. In this day "morals" is a nebulous topic, I prefer to think that calling evil good or good evil contradicts God. God that everyone can have a relationship with. If when we hear it we ask - have you asked God about that? God who wants a relationship with you, etc. People also make themselves out to be god by deciding for themselves what is moral, the problem here is that they will often pick things convenient for themselves and leave the price of their choices for humanity to pay.
(5) 5:21 goes with 4 conceited or thinking we have all the answers. Its dangerous to trust anyones "knowledge" as absolute. We absolutely need to search the scriptures and let God talk to us individually. Sharing our experiences is a good thing because God does speak to us, and He may confirm what another has said. We need that confirmation.
(6) 5:22-24 Pervert justice and take bribes. This brings about distress, and unkindness, oppression.
24 blossom blow away as dust because they rejected God- there is the dust again. This happened because people despised the Lord, so they were struck down.
Job - His friends thought his calamity was a result of Job's sin. To them it was proof. Rejecting God brings about calamity, but calamity is not a sure sign that a person has rejected God.
The end of Chapter 5 talks about other nations that God used as instruments of carrying out punishment of those that rejected Him. They are at His beck and call. Assyria in this case, but later Babylon, in our day probably the UN.
Chapter 6
This chapter starts out with a definite time stamp, the year of King Uzziah's death (approx 740 BC). This is about 5 years into what is considered his active ministry (745-695 BC). There is a difference of opinion here on several issues: 1st were the visions in earlier chapters before Isaiah's calling, or did he re-arrange his notes? 2nd- was this a record of Isaiah's calling or maybe just a special call for a certain task God had in mind?
King Uzziah was generally considered a good king, he became leporous when he tried to take over the priest duties (2 Chron 26- records his reign).
This vision came from God, was Isaiah made ready to receive this vision out of his anxiety, the clear decline he saw in the nation? Was he depressed, did that make him receptive? One of the 19th century evangelists wrote of his depression episodes, and that he came to realize that depression was a precursor to an act of God. In our day we regard depression as bad, but if it is a precursor to God moving or acting in our lives.....
The vision was a respite for Isaiah from the true conditions he saw, a reassurance.
verse 5 - Isaiah realizes his condition before God, and confesses it. That is the essence of salvation- knowing our condition before God and then accepting His cleansing us from our condition. Another of the witnessing scriptures- Isa 6:5. Isaiah in verse 8 submits to do what God asks, before God tells him the specifics of what he is to do. Submission.
What was Isaiah called to do? Halley's interprets his call to be the bringing about of the final hardening of the nation of Israel. My life application footnotes say he was to preach to a people who believed they were blessed (and they were) that God was going to destroy them due to their disobedience. God warned them one more time through Isaiah, and yet they had so hardened their hearts that destruction became inevitable.
He was sent to preach to a people that did not care to listen, I think the Lord told him they would not listen so he wouldn't get his hopes up. People who hve the gift of exhortation get terribly depressed when they don't see progress or response. He was going to exhort these people to turn back to the Lord (for a long time also- while the land God had given them was slowly overun with invaders) and they were going to ignore him (for that long).
Were these people hardened beyond repentance? God's grace gave them one more chance. Maybe for the group this was the case, but the righteous remnant that we keep hearing about may have gotten larger through Isaiah's ministry. I think the lessons here are don't give up because it looks hopeless (God doesn't give up on us- ever), and don't get your hopes up either (God did give us the freedom to choose).
Chapter 7
Ahaz is king in Judah. (2 Chron 28) a king who did not do right in the sight of the Lord. From 2nd Chronicles- He was 20 when he came to power (ruled by children?) certainly didn't have experience. He made molten images, burned incense, burned sons in fire, sacrificed everywhere.
Was defeated four times, King of Aram (Syria) defeated him, carried off captives.
King of Israel defeated him inflicting many casualties and carried off captives. He lost a son. Israel was going to make slaves of their Jewish brothers but were warned not to. So they let them go.
Syria and Israel decided to join forces to invade Judah again and set up the king of their choosing over Judah. Ahaz was in the royal line of David. Isaiah was told to go to him that this would fail. Which it did, God directly intervened. God told Ahaz if he would not believe he would not last (9)
Instead of believing God (which when considered "logically" looked improbable- Ahaz asked Assyria for help, instead the Assyrians invaded him. Ahaz gave the king of Assyria a portion of the treasures from the Lords house, which was of no help, the Assyrians still attacked him. The shaving of hair is considered total humiliation. Judah's rich farmland would be trampled to the point nothing would grow. God will redeem it.
Ahaz never turned to God, in fact he sacrificed to the gods of the countries that defeated him. Furthermore he closed the temple.
Ahaz was asked by the Lord, for the Lord to give Ahaz a sign. It was the Lord calling Ahaz to Himself. Ahaz refused - his excuse was he didn't want to test the Lord or bother Him. Do we do that? This prevented Ahaz from hearing from the Lord, and of course Ahaz probably knew that in acknowledging God he would have to acknowledge his sin- which had wreaked havoc on Judah.
The sign? Immanuel in the family of David, the future Messiah born of a virgin.
He was however Hezekiah's dad. God protected the line. Promised Messiah- future looking, but also real time the kings Ahaz dreaded would be forsaken (3 years- approximate time from conception of a baby until the baby talks). They were dead chickens- God promised it.
God whistles for fly and bee, these are signs of God's judgement. I also take it as a sign that the greatest armies in the world are powerless without the Lord. The actual judgement is delayed for several more kings after Hezekiah.
Chapter 8
Maher-shalal-hash-baz - The Lord told Isaiah to name his son that, before the boy can speak (conception- to talking - 3 yrs) Syria and Israel will conquered by the king of Assyria. The name means the spoils speeds, the prey hastens (swift is the booty, speedy is the prey), the immediate threat will fail. How often do we name our children based on what God has told us would happen. He was completely sold out. The Lord further told Isaiah that since Israel rejected Him (Shiloah- God's gentle and sustaining care), He would allow the waters of the Euphrates (abundant)- this is the way the Assyrians would sweep into the land. Reaching into Judah all the way to the neck- Jerusalem alone would remain.
Be broken, be shattered (shattered means lose courage). Gird yourselves yet be shattered- repeated. Prepare yourselves, but lose courage. God will have His way- it is best for us. We think we know what is best, and we certainly have our wants and desires, but God truly does know what is best for us.
To close I had a wonderful prayer but didn't use it. I prayed we would submit to God and do what He requests without wanting a preview, even if it is hard as in the case of Isaiah's task. The Lord was with him, and will clearly walk with us every step of the way.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Second week of Isaiah study. Chapter 2-5:19.
May God bless those who read and study His word, in fact I think its a promise.
Chapter 2:
Lord You are our creator, and You have created everything we have. Lord there is none Like you- not even close, and Father we acknowledge You as God. Please speak to us through the discussion of Your word and lead us into the way You would have each of us go. Help us both to listen and to hear You, that we may all be pleasing in Your sight.
In Jesus name
(1-5)Lords will- Jerusalem chief city, ALL nations will stream there, Christ will be teaching the ways of God in the house of Jacob (Israel). People will want to walk in His path and forsake their own way. Disputes will be settled by Christ, of nations and peoples- it will be like Moses or the judges deciding in Israel. No war. No war means that the disputes will be settled- what causes war- selfish ambition -Hitler, misunderstandings, sin. Causes murder- we want what we can't have so we take it- we aren't happy with God has blessed us with so we covet what others have, and it leads to sin.
(6-11) Now from a glimpse of the future to Isaiah trying to appeal to the people of Israel to walk in God's way. God has abandoned them- influenced from the east (other cultures- not God's way- a mixture). They had gods they worshipped at the same time as God. Idols get worshipped too (american Idol- very popular) - the creation of our hands.
Natural to be happy with what we can make, it can - take the place of God in our lives. We worship a creation rather than the creator.
We tend to concentrate on it rather than Him -so we don't serve Him
makes us aware of our own efforts and makes us feel self sufficient
But God's presence remove's those feelings - we will be terrified by His presence. The Lord will be exalted ALONE.
(12-22)A day of reckoning - The Father setting His kids straight- He will only cover so long, then He will affirm His position. Everyone proud and lofty will be abased.
The Lord alone will be exalted (same as vs 11) repeated passages
Idols will completely vanish
men will hide in caves trying to escape the presence of the Lord. We turn away when people say what we don't want to hear, avoid them. God will come and hiding will be impossible we must make our choice. Our priorities will be shuffled putting God first (money will be of no concern- we won't care).
A dust reminder- stop esteeming man our life is in our God given breath. What value is any of us to anyone or anything apart from what God has given us?
Chapter 3
God will remove remove bread and water from Jerusalem and Judah. This describing seige by invading army. Ultimately the capture of Jerusalem and the forced relocation of the leaders and other affluent people.
Children rulers - inexperienced, oppressed- under control of the invading kingdom. Those countries were conquered- people relocated, and those left had to pay tribute.
Jerusalem and Judah's speech and actions are against the Lord (denying God in word and deed). Did not want His presence, their faces expressed a disdain for God
Displaying sin like Sodom - open sin- not trying to conceal it. They bring evil on themselves God didn't send it, but rather their actions brought about those consequences.
Nugget- say to the righteous that it will go well with them, they will reap the fruit of their action. Note "well" may mean they get relocated- in exile (Daniel is a prime example of an exile that things went well for due to his actions of trying to serve the Lord). He was in a foriegn land, but gained respect.
Wicked- it will go badly, they will get what they deserve. Grace is getting something we don't deserve, I think God has been very gracious to us.
oppressors are children, women rule over them. Their leaders lead them astray and confuse them. It is so very important to have a relationship with God. Leaders with an un-Godly heart will tend to lead you astray. God put leaders in place, but He wants us to have a relationship with Him, and get our direction from Him, not blindly follow the leader.
God will arise to contend- arise - used in 2:19,2:21 and 3:13, 2:2 the Lords mountain will be raised in Jerusalem (earthquake- arises to make the earth trembles in that day 2:19).
Lord Judging the leaders of His people. Plunder of the poor is in your houses- riches gained by position. His people crushed, grinding the face of the poor- connotes to me a refusing to see them, and holding them down against the ground, not seeing them as people.
Women- long description 16-24 focus is on the beauty of women, all the adornments, looks have become their god- definitely similar to this time. The idol or perfect image is on magazine covers, and many women become totally consumed by trying to look that way. Their looks become the god they are serving, the teenagers and young women wrecking their lives by comparing themselves to those images and trying to live up to it. Blood donors- low iron
Men fall by the sword- defending Jerusalem to no avail.
Chapter 4
verse 1 seems to be a continuation of Ch 3. After war and most of the men killed and all the beautiful adorning ornaments taken few men left.
However no accidents in God's word. It could be that was the situation (and I'm sure it was when Jerusalem was over run then) , and will be the situation at the beginning of the millenial reign. It didn't have to be written twice.
Chapter four is looking ahead, in the midst of impending doom and destruction, the ultimate fate of Jerusalem is shown. Those in Jerusalem will be called Holy, only those in the book of life will be able to enter. After redemption Jerusalem will have a cloud over it by day (with smoke) and a fire by night, and a canopy over all that for shelter. Just like how God led the Israelites in the desert.
Chapter 5
Parable of the vineyard- Jesus Parables. Matthew 21:33-45 is the parable of the vineyard. The text is the same in terms of setting. Jesus gave Isaiah the parable, and then later used it in His ministry. Another related parable sticks out to me Luke 13:6-9 the parable of the Fig tree in the vineyard. The owner (God) was ready to cut it down, but the vineyard-keeper (Jesus) wanted another year to try and make it produce fruit.
God gave Israel everything they needed and indeed everything they had, and still they rejected Him.
Within Judah he looked for justice and found bloodshed
looked for righteousness and found distress
Do Justice, love kindness, walk humbly
The wicked in israel faced desolation- famine. Ten acres produced one bath (9 gallons of wine), a Homer of seed planted (11 bushels) produced an Ephah ( 1 bushel) of harvest. The wicked would be better off eating the seed rather than planting, God will suspend His sowing and reaping principle in this case. God provides increase of what we sow, do we sow goodness? kindness?
6 things pointed out- (1)5:8-10- exploiting others- putting house to house and field to field together. Acquiring property isn't sin, but getting more than you need while others suffer and are forced to move away is. Its a building up of worldy treasures, and they come between us and God.
(2) drunkeness- 5:11-12-starting early or staying up late to drink. Drinking is about escape- selfish pleasure. Can you serve others when in a drunken state? Your children? family? Bible says give strong drink to those suffering, drinking just for the buzz can make us ignore the Lord, and the work of His hands.
People will go into exile for lack of knowledge, Isaiah warned them, and yet they did not listen they were marched away hungry and thirsty. So all the extra fields and the drinking of wine was wasted, others got the benefit because of their relationship with God. Men will be abased but the Lord exalted
(3) 5:18-19 Woe to those that drag iniquity with cords of falsehood. The I can't help it crowd- I must sin. Now Christ delivers us from sin, He paid the price, to claim we can't help it makes the sin more powerful than Christ's sacrifice. Untrue. Another interesting statement is the calling for works of God that they may see it. In Jesus time they asked Him for a sign time after time that they might "believe" in other words they did not want to exercise faith. Or did not want to show faith.
May God bless those who read and study His word, in fact I think its a promise.
Chapter 2:
Lord You are our creator, and You have created everything we have. Lord there is none Like you- not even close, and Father we acknowledge You as God. Please speak to us through the discussion of Your word and lead us into the way You would have each of us go. Help us both to listen and to hear You, that we may all be pleasing in Your sight.
In Jesus name
(1-5)Lords will- Jerusalem chief city, ALL nations will stream there, Christ will be teaching the ways of God in the house of Jacob (Israel). People will want to walk in His path and forsake their own way. Disputes will be settled by Christ, of nations and peoples- it will be like Moses or the judges deciding in Israel. No war. No war means that the disputes will be settled- what causes war- selfish ambition -Hitler, misunderstandings, sin. Causes murder- we want what we can't have so we take it- we aren't happy with God has blessed us with so we covet what others have, and it leads to sin.
(6-11) Now from a glimpse of the future to Isaiah trying to appeal to the people of Israel to walk in God's way. God has abandoned them- influenced from the east (other cultures- not God's way- a mixture). They had gods they worshipped at the same time as God. Idols get worshipped too (american Idol- very popular) - the creation of our hands.
Natural to be happy with what we can make, it can - take the place of God in our lives. We worship a creation rather than the creator.
We tend to concentrate on it rather than Him -so we don't serve Him
makes us aware of our own efforts and makes us feel self sufficient
But God's presence remove's those feelings - we will be terrified by His presence. The Lord will be exalted ALONE.
(12-22)A day of reckoning - The Father setting His kids straight- He will only cover so long, then He will affirm His position. Everyone proud and lofty will be abased.
The Lord alone will be exalted (same as vs 11) repeated passages
Idols will completely vanish
men will hide in caves trying to escape the presence of the Lord. We turn away when people say what we don't want to hear, avoid them. God will come and hiding will be impossible we must make our choice. Our priorities will be shuffled putting God first (money will be of no concern- we won't care).
A dust reminder- stop esteeming man our life is in our God given breath. What value is any of us to anyone or anything apart from what God has given us?
Chapter 3
God will remove remove bread and water from Jerusalem and Judah. This describing seige by invading army. Ultimately the capture of Jerusalem and the forced relocation of the leaders and other affluent people.
Children rulers - inexperienced, oppressed- under control of the invading kingdom. Those countries were conquered- people relocated, and those left had to pay tribute.
Jerusalem and Judah's speech and actions are against the Lord (denying God in word and deed). Did not want His presence, their faces expressed a disdain for God
Displaying sin like Sodom - open sin- not trying to conceal it. They bring evil on themselves God didn't send it, but rather their actions brought about those consequences.
Nugget- say to the righteous that it will go well with them, they will reap the fruit of their action. Note "well" may mean they get relocated- in exile (Daniel is a prime example of an exile that things went well for due to his actions of trying to serve the Lord). He was in a foriegn land, but gained respect.
Wicked- it will go badly, they will get what they deserve. Grace is getting something we don't deserve, I think God has been very gracious to us.
oppressors are children, women rule over them. Their leaders lead them astray and confuse them. It is so very important to have a relationship with God. Leaders with an un-Godly heart will tend to lead you astray. God put leaders in place, but He wants us to have a relationship with Him, and get our direction from Him, not blindly follow the leader.
God will arise to contend- arise - used in 2:19,2:21 and 3:13, 2:2 the Lords mountain will be raised in Jerusalem (earthquake- arises to make the earth trembles in that day 2:19).
Lord Judging the leaders of His people. Plunder of the poor is in your houses- riches gained by position. His people crushed, grinding the face of the poor- connotes to me a refusing to see them, and holding them down against the ground, not seeing them as people.
Women- long description 16-24 focus is on the beauty of women, all the adornments, looks have become their god- definitely similar to this time. The idol or perfect image is on magazine covers, and many women become totally consumed by trying to look that way. Their looks become the god they are serving, the teenagers and young women wrecking their lives by comparing themselves to those images and trying to live up to it. Blood donors- low iron
Men fall by the sword- defending Jerusalem to no avail.
Chapter 4
verse 1 seems to be a continuation of Ch 3. After war and most of the men killed and all the beautiful adorning ornaments taken few men left.
However no accidents in God's word. It could be that was the situation (and I'm sure it was when Jerusalem was over run then) , and will be the situation at the beginning of the millenial reign. It didn't have to be written twice.
Chapter four is looking ahead, in the midst of impending doom and destruction, the ultimate fate of Jerusalem is shown. Those in Jerusalem will be called Holy, only those in the book of life will be able to enter. After redemption Jerusalem will have a cloud over it by day (with smoke) and a fire by night, and a canopy over all that for shelter. Just like how God led the Israelites in the desert.
Chapter 5
Parable of the vineyard- Jesus Parables. Matthew 21:33-45 is the parable of the vineyard. The text is the same in terms of setting. Jesus gave Isaiah the parable, and then later used it in His ministry. Another related parable sticks out to me Luke 13:6-9 the parable of the Fig tree in the vineyard. The owner (God) was ready to cut it down, but the vineyard-keeper (Jesus) wanted another year to try and make it produce fruit.
God gave Israel everything they needed and indeed everything they had, and still they rejected Him.
Within Judah he looked for justice and found bloodshed
looked for righteousness and found distress
Do Justice, love kindness, walk humbly
The wicked in israel faced desolation- famine. Ten acres produced one bath (9 gallons of wine), a Homer of seed planted (11 bushels) produced an Ephah ( 1 bushel) of harvest. The wicked would be better off eating the seed rather than planting, God will suspend His sowing and reaping principle in this case. God provides increase of what we sow, do we sow goodness? kindness?
6 things pointed out- (1)5:8-10- exploiting others- putting house to house and field to field together. Acquiring property isn't sin, but getting more than you need while others suffer and are forced to move away is. Its a building up of worldy treasures, and they come between us and God.
(2) drunkeness- 5:11-12-starting early or staying up late to drink. Drinking is about escape- selfish pleasure. Can you serve others when in a drunken state? Your children? family? Bible says give strong drink to those suffering, drinking just for the buzz can make us ignore the Lord, and the work of His hands.
People will go into exile for lack of knowledge, Isaiah warned them, and yet they did not listen they were marched away hungry and thirsty. So all the extra fields and the drinking of wine was wasted, others got the benefit because of their relationship with God. Men will be abased but the Lord exalted
(3) 5:18-19 Woe to those that drag iniquity with cords of falsehood. The I can't help it crowd- I must sin. Now Christ delivers us from sin, He paid the price, to claim we can't help it makes the sin more powerful than Christ's sacrifice. Untrue. Another interesting statement is the calling for works of God that they may see it. In Jesus time they asked Him for a sign time after time that they might "believe" in other words they did not want to exercise faith. Or did not want to show faith.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Wow its been a while. I'm starting a Wednesday night series on Isaiah. Here are my thoughts so far. Its background info and chapter 1.
First a prayer.
Oh Lord thank you for Your Word. The many generations of faithful hands that have obeyed Your leading to bring us this book. We praise You for Your hand in preserving this record, and may You use it to lead us into submission to Your Will and a walk that is where You desire each of us to go. Help us to hear Your voice. In the name of Your son Jesus thank You, Amen.
Isaiah's background -son of Amoz - King's son, but not in the line to the throne. This certainly gave him access to the palace and meant he was probably well educated and had access to scripture.
Interestingly he wrote books referred to in scripture but not left for us- God didn't think it necessary. What God decided was necessary for us was more like his journal. Isaiah's writings of his walk with God and his experiences - probably unedited and unpolished is what has persevered. He recorded his experiences and probably not as they happened. We all have certain insights we get that we may or may not record and they probably aren't in the order they were received. We like Isaiah may record our thoughts and experiences of our walk with God - God may use them.
The Bible is Sixty six books of a walk with God- not a study but a relationship. What was going on around him? What did he do? What did God show him? What did he record? How does that compare to today? Our actions? and what God shows us?
What did Isaiah experience in his lifetime? The Assyrians were on the scene and he witnessed them taking the Northern most part of the country - then Israel (Samaria) - leaving only Judah. Then they invaded Judah. Then they put a siege on Jerusalem. In other words Israel/Judah were in definite decline throughout his life. Some of that anguish he felt, maybe the helplessness prepared him for God to show him what He had in mind for Israel. The tradition is that Isaiah was sawn asunder (in two) by Mannasseh- It is believed he is the one referred to in Hebrews 11:37.
In preparing this I can tell there are people praying for me, I ask they keep it up. I also ask that they pray that I am faithful in delivering what God gives me through studying this. I would also ask that each of you read it and ponder it, pray about what it means for each of your lives, and share that with the group. We are all special, and God works with us in different ways. We each though have a contribution. I have really been impressed by the following.
We were made of dust by God and He gave us life. A bucket of dust (add water) and we have mud, God makes a person. Its interesting that the potter and the clay are talked about in this book. It has been very strong though, it doesn't mean we are nothing and undeserving (as false humility could lead us to believe) but rather God has made each of us uniquely and specially- He wants us, (parents sometimes don't want their kids) He always does. Our very life is a gift from Him, and so are all the things we treasure. Too bad we too often put created things ahead of our creator.
Isaiah was a bucket of dust that God made a person out of for that place and time. He recorded what God told him, and God saved it for us. The book of Isaiah was one of the dead sea scrolls (so we got a copy that dates back to 200 BC).
Ch 1 v2 and 3- as a parent rears children so has the Lord reared Israel. He has like a parent the very best of hope for them, but they have rejected Him. Become prodigal. Farm animals know their allegiances, but people with the "knowledge of good and evil" miss or ignore His leading, and don't seek or abide by His guidance. Apart from Him we are nothing (dust), He gives us life and the choice whether to serve Him or go our own way. Either way He is still our Creator and the Creator of what is around us.
Animals know their owners, but that "knowledge" has made us so smart, so prideful- we just don't understand. We are blinded by our pride. In Isaiah's day as ours we are blind, prideful and un-acknowledging of the role of God in our lives.
Israel in Isaiah's day turned away, and we turn away - I doubt I'm fully submitted to God are you? Here's a test- think of something dear to you: house, car, job, activity, sport, land, boat, child, health, fitness, church, Krispy Kremes - are you really willing to give them up? I like to hike- if God says no more, would I sulk? would I say - You know best God. Children just make me shudder to think about.
He wants our full submission, not just when its easy. He gave us the choice to submit, just like He gave breath to our bodies. Some of us may not be ready in some areas, and most of us probably aren't ready in an area or two. God is our Father and He knows where we are at. Just like us with our children there may be things they aren't ready for yet and us parents "cover". God covers us with His love. Anyone who thinks they have arrived are probably not being honest.
To Study Isaiah I want to refer to Proverbs 1:24-33 The Lord calls out, the people reject (again- the Lord calls out, and the people reject). When that happens they can expect calamity, fear and dread- exactly what Israel was facing in those days. Is the world facing that in these days?
V7 Leviticus keep commandments and statutes and prevent invasions, strangers devouring fields is invasion.
Calamity brings about sacrifice- we run to God in crisis, they did in that day, we do today (9/11) filled churches for a small season. Calamity or crisis makes us abandon the things we treasure when things are going well. Do you really care about your car if a loved one is seriously ill? The Lord was tired of sacrifices- He wanted them to do justice.
Worthless offerings- offerings to God should cost us something. Something that requires sacrifice on our part. time (time away from favorite shows, but probably deeper- time away from family. Where is the proper mix- God before family, family before God. Offerings should cost us money- something I think we all value. What things do we value? The things we have a hard time submitting to God. Same list- we must put Him before them to show our earnestness. Saul captured sheep to sacrifice to God- what did it cost him?
They had festivals and feasts He did not ordain, they put those celebrations before service to Him. He will hide His eyes from seeing us pray, He will not listen.
In doing our own thing, our own way, our hands bloodstained. They become that way just as how it was in Isaiah's day. He warns us verse 16 -turn from your way put God first. Cleanse yourself- this means acknowledge the dirt and wash it off. Would we take baths if we didn't think we were dirty? We must quit doing evil- remove it from His sight
Where can God see?- Everywhere- so then to remove something from His sight we must? STOP doing it.
Learn to do good- learning is a two step process. 1st gain the knowledge, and then put it into practice refining the practice through experience. Do parents feel more confident of their ability to parent when the second child comes along- as opposed to the first? Does the person who has cooked spaghetti a thousand times feel more confident about how it will turn out than the one trying for the first time?
Repetitively doing good takes practice- some care must be taken against pride here, doing good doesn't make us good.
V17 seek justice
reprove (correct) the ruthless
defend the orphan
plead for the widow (Compare to Micah 6:8)
v19 our basic choice:
trust His judgement- have faith in Him
or
Rely on our knowledge of what is good and evil and do as we see fit
His way is life
Our way is death
Grace- no matter where we are, or how far we have fallen, He is calling us back- the decision to follow Him must be first.
A decline of the city is described. Clear choices have been given by God and yet some will choose other than God. It like us is His city, on His earth and He will redeem it. Repentant ones with righteousness.
Oaks and gardens chosen- things we feel we control but our really idols- creation not the Creator
Men's strength will leave (our strength comes from God- are we not dust otherwise?)
First a prayer.
Oh Lord thank you for Your Word. The many generations of faithful hands that have obeyed Your leading to bring us this book. We praise You for Your hand in preserving this record, and may You use it to lead us into submission to Your Will and a walk that is where You desire each of us to go. Help us to hear Your voice. In the name of Your son Jesus thank You, Amen.
Isaiah's background -son of Amoz - King's son, but not in the line to the throne. This certainly gave him access to the palace and meant he was probably well educated and had access to scripture.
Interestingly he wrote books referred to in scripture but not left for us- God didn't think it necessary. What God decided was necessary for us was more like his journal. Isaiah's writings of his walk with God and his experiences - probably unedited and unpolished is what has persevered. He recorded his experiences and probably not as they happened. We all have certain insights we get that we may or may not record and they probably aren't in the order they were received. We like Isaiah may record our thoughts and experiences of our walk with God - God may use them.
The Bible is Sixty six books of a walk with God- not a study but a relationship. What was going on around him? What did he do? What did God show him? What did he record? How does that compare to today? Our actions? and what God shows us?
What did Isaiah experience in his lifetime? The Assyrians were on the scene and he witnessed them taking the Northern most part of the country - then Israel (Samaria) - leaving only Judah. Then they invaded Judah. Then they put a siege on Jerusalem. In other words Israel/Judah were in definite decline throughout his life. Some of that anguish he felt, maybe the helplessness prepared him for God to show him what He had in mind for Israel. The tradition is that Isaiah was sawn asunder (in two) by Mannasseh- It is believed he is the one referred to in Hebrews 11:37.
In preparing this I can tell there are people praying for me, I ask they keep it up. I also ask that they pray that I am faithful in delivering what God gives me through studying this. I would also ask that each of you read it and ponder it, pray about what it means for each of your lives, and share that with the group. We are all special, and God works with us in different ways. We each though have a contribution. I have really been impressed by the following.
We were made of dust by God and He gave us life. A bucket of dust (add water) and we have mud, God makes a person. Its interesting that the potter and the clay are talked about in this book. It has been very strong though, it doesn't mean we are nothing and undeserving (as false humility could lead us to believe) but rather God has made each of us uniquely and specially- He wants us, (parents sometimes don't want their kids) He always does. Our very life is a gift from Him, and so are all the things we treasure. Too bad we too often put created things ahead of our creator.
Isaiah was a bucket of dust that God made a person out of for that place and time. He recorded what God told him, and God saved it for us. The book of Isaiah was one of the dead sea scrolls (so we got a copy that dates back to 200 BC).
Ch 1 v2 and 3- as a parent rears children so has the Lord reared Israel. He has like a parent the very best of hope for them, but they have rejected Him. Become prodigal. Farm animals know their allegiances, but people with the "knowledge of good and evil" miss or ignore His leading, and don't seek or abide by His guidance. Apart from Him we are nothing (dust), He gives us life and the choice whether to serve Him or go our own way. Either way He is still our Creator and the Creator of what is around us.
Animals know their owners, but that "knowledge" has made us so smart, so prideful- we just don't understand. We are blinded by our pride. In Isaiah's day as ours we are blind, prideful and un-acknowledging of the role of God in our lives.
Israel in Isaiah's day turned away, and we turn away - I doubt I'm fully submitted to God are you? Here's a test- think of something dear to you: house, car, job, activity, sport, land, boat, child, health, fitness, church, Krispy Kremes - are you really willing to give them up? I like to hike- if God says no more, would I sulk? would I say - You know best God. Children just make me shudder to think about.
He wants our full submission, not just when its easy. He gave us the choice to submit, just like He gave breath to our bodies. Some of us may not be ready in some areas, and most of us probably aren't ready in an area or two. God is our Father and He knows where we are at. Just like us with our children there may be things they aren't ready for yet and us parents "cover". God covers us with His love. Anyone who thinks they have arrived are probably not being honest.
To Study Isaiah I want to refer to Proverbs 1:24-33 The Lord calls out, the people reject (again- the Lord calls out, and the people reject). When that happens they can expect calamity, fear and dread- exactly what Israel was facing in those days. Is the world facing that in these days?
V7 Leviticus keep commandments and statutes and prevent invasions, strangers devouring fields is invasion.
Calamity brings about sacrifice- we run to God in crisis, they did in that day, we do today (9/11) filled churches for a small season. Calamity or crisis makes us abandon the things we treasure when things are going well. Do you really care about your car if a loved one is seriously ill? The Lord was tired of sacrifices- He wanted them to do justice.
Worthless offerings- offerings to God should cost us something. Something that requires sacrifice on our part. time (time away from favorite shows, but probably deeper- time away from family. Where is the proper mix- God before family, family before God. Offerings should cost us money- something I think we all value. What things do we value? The things we have a hard time submitting to God. Same list- we must put Him before them to show our earnestness. Saul captured sheep to sacrifice to God- what did it cost him?
They had festivals and feasts He did not ordain, they put those celebrations before service to Him. He will hide His eyes from seeing us pray, He will not listen.
In doing our own thing, our own way, our hands bloodstained. They become that way just as how it was in Isaiah's day. He warns us verse 16 -turn from your way put God first. Cleanse yourself- this means acknowledge the dirt and wash it off. Would we take baths if we didn't think we were dirty? We must quit doing evil- remove it from His sight
Where can God see?- Everywhere- so then to remove something from His sight we must? STOP doing it.
Learn to do good- learning is a two step process. 1st gain the knowledge, and then put it into practice refining the practice through experience. Do parents feel more confident of their ability to parent when the second child comes along- as opposed to the first? Does the person who has cooked spaghetti a thousand times feel more confident about how it will turn out than the one trying for the first time?
Repetitively doing good takes practice- some care must be taken against pride here, doing good doesn't make us good.
V17 seek justice
reprove (correct) the ruthless
defend the orphan
plead for the widow (Compare to Micah 6:8)
v19 our basic choice:
trust His judgement- have faith in Him
or
Rely on our knowledge of what is good and evil and do as we see fit
His way is life
Our way is death
Grace- no matter where we are, or how far we have fallen, He is calling us back- the decision to follow Him must be first.
A decline of the city is described. Clear choices have been given by God and yet some will choose other than God. It like us is His city, on His earth and He will redeem it. Repentant ones with righteousness.
Oaks and gardens chosen- things we feel we control but our really idols- creation not the Creator
Men's strength will leave (our strength comes from God- are we not dust otherwise?)
Monday, July 21, 2008
I am heart broken. Some people would say I am depressed and in reading the Bible you might think "depression" is a natural state. I think it certainly is something used by God.
I forgot which great preacher in history talked about depression as a precursor to the moving of God. There was one.
How can anyone not be depressed, I see so many people "spinning their wheels", "pushing a chain" - working diligently at going nowhere. There are so many examples of hunger in this world, injustices against one human by another, and yet a general acceptance of that as normal. Its not normal, it is the result of sin in our lives as humans. Selfishness, wanting our way, promoting our agenda.
We can't legislate it, we can't make people do it, they have to decide to put others first, then we can solve problems. I see the answers to the problems as a need for more gospel, but that notion is rejected out of hand as not being for me, I want to do it my way (selfish).
I see people struggle, looking for and easy way, a quick fix. They don't want to invest the effort or time into real solutions. They don't want to serve others. They want their gratification now.
I also am experiencing joy. God is big enough to bring about change, and one day things will be different. There will be a other focused world and not a self focused one. He will establish His world over the course of 7 years, so truly nobody should be left behind. It will be their choice. Its interesting that Moses charged the Israelites with reading the law to everyone every 7 years -Deut 31:10-11.
Imagine a world where people do look out for each other, do make sure their neighbor is fed, do place resources where they are needed. I so long for that world. A world where children can play, there are no wars, and everyone encourages each other. Thy Kingdom come.
I'm starting Joshua, I normally associate crossing the Jordan with going to heaven, I love the song "Elijah" and the artist that did that is gone. But Joshua can be considered an entering into God's blessings, or accepting His promises. The Israelites knew of God in the dessert, but didn't accept Him. It took them forty years (actually an entire generation) for God to get them to a position where He could bless them. Well that isn't exactly true- God is not time limited- my point however is that the stiff-necked people weren't ready to receive what God wanted to give them.
A new believer is like that in some respects, he/she knows of God and wants the things of God but hasn't crucified their flesh or their non-Godly (fleshly) ways. Therefore they can't truly receive His blessings and His best for them. It may take (and probably does) years for God to work in a life to prepare a person to truly walk with Him. Again its not because God is limited but that we are "stiff-necked". God has the "time" and it is His nature to be ready when we are. He stays ready- we have to come to Him.
Well back to Joshua and God's charge to Joshua in getting ready to cross the Jordan. Verse 3 for the ready Christian everywhere we step foot God has given to us- powerful, awesome, amazing. This means to me that any Christian ready to receive God's blessing - He promises it.
Verse 5 No man will be able to stand before you ... I will not fail you or forsake you. That is the thing I struggle with the most, I can see His Hand in my life in the past but I still entertain fear of the future and His continuing presence. Yet the Bible is full of promises just like that one. No person can hinder God's work in our lives or the blessings He has for us- WOW.
Be strong and courageous-its repeated a couple times, meditate on His word. I feel I have one down- the habit of reading and meditating, the strong and courageous part I need His help. Don't look at circumstances, people, but trust Him.
May I be strong and courageous in my continued walk with Him, accepting what He wants to give me and fearing no man. Please Lord help us in our weak areas.
I forgot which great preacher in history talked about depression as a precursor to the moving of God. There was one.
How can anyone not be depressed, I see so many people "spinning their wheels", "pushing a chain" - working diligently at going nowhere. There are so many examples of hunger in this world, injustices against one human by another, and yet a general acceptance of that as normal. Its not normal, it is the result of sin in our lives as humans. Selfishness, wanting our way, promoting our agenda.
We can't legislate it, we can't make people do it, they have to decide to put others first, then we can solve problems. I see the answers to the problems as a need for more gospel, but that notion is rejected out of hand as not being for me, I want to do it my way (selfish).
I see people struggle, looking for and easy way, a quick fix. They don't want to invest the effort or time into real solutions. They don't want to serve others. They want their gratification now.
I also am experiencing joy. God is big enough to bring about change, and one day things will be different. There will be a other focused world and not a self focused one. He will establish His world over the course of 7 years, so truly nobody should be left behind. It will be their choice. Its interesting that Moses charged the Israelites with reading the law to everyone every 7 years -Deut 31:10-11.
Imagine a world where people do look out for each other, do make sure their neighbor is fed, do place resources where they are needed. I so long for that world. A world where children can play, there are no wars, and everyone encourages each other. Thy Kingdom come.
I'm starting Joshua, I normally associate crossing the Jordan with going to heaven, I love the song "Elijah" and the artist that did that is gone. But Joshua can be considered an entering into God's blessings, or accepting His promises. The Israelites knew of God in the dessert, but didn't accept Him. It took them forty years (actually an entire generation) for God to get them to a position where He could bless them. Well that isn't exactly true- God is not time limited- my point however is that the stiff-necked people weren't ready to receive what God wanted to give them.
A new believer is like that in some respects, he/she knows of God and wants the things of God but hasn't crucified their flesh or their non-Godly (fleshly) ways. Therefore they can't truly receive His blessings and His best for them. It may take (and probably does) years for God to work in a life to prepare a person to truly walk with Him. Again its not because God is limited but that we are "stiff-necked". God has the "time" and it is His nature to be ready when we are. He stays ready- we have to come to Him.
Well back to Joshua and God's charge to Joshua in getting ready to cross the Jordan. Verse 3 for the ready Christian everywhere we step foot God has given to us- powerful, awesome, amazing. This means to me that any Christian ready to receive God's blessing - He promises it.
Verse 5 No man will be able to stand before you ... I will not fail you or forsake you. That is the thing I struggle with the most, I can see His Hand in my life in the past but I still entertain fear of the future and His continuing presence. Yet the Bible is full of promises just like that one. No person can hinder God's work in our lives or the blessings He has for us- WOW.
Be strong and courageous-its repeated a couple times, meditate on His word. I feel I have one down- the habit of reading and meditating, the strong and courageous part I need His help. Don't look at circumstances, people, but trust Him.
May I be strong and courageous in my continued walk with Him, accepting what He wants to give me and fearing no man. Please Lord help us in our weak areas.
Friday, July 11, 2008
Isaiah is a walk with God, studying the Bible doesn't have to be Bible study in the conventional experience. He recorded his experience with God, what are yours? Its about seeing his relationship, the insight given to him that is available to everyone that asks (and seeks diligently).
Not having wisdom is because you haven't made it a goal, and sought it out. To deny God is to deny wisdom, think of the people who make questionable decisions (not that we should judge them) but is it an indicator of their relationship with God. Worldly folks have the same opinion of us, some of our decisions seem questionable- like why go to church when you can sleep in?
World's problem are the result of the lack of relationship with the Lord, I can't think of one that isn't.
Competition - no need - we should be cheering each other on.
How can my faith be expressed in a way that isn't considered "threatening" ? My position makes me more of a threat to students than any other possible influence. As far as being a Christian we are not a threat to anyone. We have the heart that all should come to know the Lord, so harming anyone is contrary to that belief. Any threat anyone feels from a Christian is not from that particular person, and so to say things like the Bible are "hate speech" shows the condition of the world.
I am not a threat! I am a sinner just like everyone else. A person that has somewhat grasped the vision that God's way is the best way, and that God wants the best for everyone.
Not having wisdom is because you haven't made it a goal, and sought it out. To deny God is to deny wisdom, think of the people who make questionable decisions (not that we should judge them) but is it an indicator of their relationship with God. Worldly folks have the same opinion of us, some of our decisions seem questionable- like why go to church when you can sleep in?
World's problem are the result of the lack of relationship with the Lord, I can't think of one that isn't.
Competition - no need - we should be cheering each other on.
How can my faith be expressed in a way that isn't considered "threatening" ? My position makes me more of a threat to students than any other possible influence. As far as being a Christian we are not a threat to anyone. We have the heart that all should come to know the Lord, so harming anyone is contrary to that belief. Any threat anyone feels from a Christian is not from that particular person, and so to say things like the Bible are "hate speech" shows the condition of the world.
I am not a threat! I am a sinner just like everyone else. A person that has somewhat grasped the vision that God's way is the best way, and that God wants the best for everyone.
Saturday, July 5, 2008
This week you get the notes I'm speaking off of tomorrow night.
We can't have enough knowledge of God.
Slide 1
God created the earth and everything in it, He also created us. May He come soon and establish is kingdom. In establishing His kingdom he doesn't need us, but He did charge us with taking the gospel to the ends of the earth. How are we doing?
Slide 2
Do we even know the Gospel, do we even know God's heart? How do we get to know someone- spend time with them.
__________________________
In listening to people's thoughts over the last month or so the most discussed issues don't even have a God element or influence. If there is one it is along the lines "the Bible says that is a sin". In industry I used to hear we do it that way "because that is the way we've always done it". That frustrated me terribly because it isn't an answer, so to quote the Bible and to say "because ... God said so" is correct, but God has His reasons, and we should search them out, Get to know Him and learn the whys.
We must get fed regularly, and we must be God focused- I was struck recently by the following:
__________________________
Slide 3
Numbers 13:2 (God speaking to Moses) Send out for yourself men so that they may spy out the land of Canaan, which I am going to give to the sons of Israel...
Moses got the twelve and sent them out saying (13:18) see what the land is like, AND whether the people who live in it are strong or weak. The types of cities they have... make an effort to get some fruit.
Slide 4
The report back verse 27 the land flows with milk and honey NEVERTHELESS the people are strong. The Lord promised them the land, but the bad report was people focused.
Focus on God not people, He promised them the land what/why did they care about the people?
___________________________
As a result of the report, those people never entered the promised land (except two- read what they said about the land and the people), instead they wandered about in the wilderness. Where are we?
___________________________
Slide 5
Hosea 4:1 Listen to the word of the Lord, O sons of Israel, For the Lord has a case against the inhabitants of the land, Because there is no faithfulness or kindness Or knowledge of God in the land.
verse 3 Therefore the land mourns...
Verse 6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge, Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being My priest. Since you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children.
____________________________
We can't have enough knowledge of God.
____________________________
Slide 6
everything we have is from God- we don't deserve anything good on our own merit. We can't praise Him enough
Hosea 6:1-3 Come let us return to the Lord. For He has torn us, but He will heal us: He has wounded us, but He will bandage us. He will revive us after two days: He will raise us up on the third day, that we may live before Him. So let us know, let us press on to know the Lord. His going forth is as certain as the dawn: and He will come to us like the rain, Like the spring rain watering the earth.
6:6 I delight in loyalty rather than sacrifice, and in the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.
____________________________
10:12 Sow with a view to righteousness, reap in accordance with kindness; break up your fallow ground, for it is time to seek the Lord until He comes to rain righteousness on you.
____________________________
Slide 7
want to serve God?- want to get to know Him? -so many distractions
be His light , be people that reflect Him. It will flow freely out of an even closer relationship with Him.
_____________________________
We'll fulfill the great commission.
prayer earnestly- Dogback Mtn.
_______________________________
Icebreaker question - who has read the Bible through. I wonder how over the years the number of people who might answer that question has changed? Is it becoming less?
We can't have enough knowledge of God.
Slide 1
God created the earth and everything in it, He also created us. May He come soon and establish is kingdom. In establishing His kingdom he doesn't need us, but He did charge us with taking the gospel to the ends of the earth. How are we doing?
Slide 2
Do we even know the Gospel, do we even know God's heart? How do we get to know someone- spend time with them.
__________________________
In listening to people's thoughts over the last month or so the most discussed issues don't even have a God element or influence. If there is one it is along the lines "the Bible says that is a sin". In industry I used to hear we do it that way "because that is the way we've always done it". That frustrated me terribly because it isn't an answer, so to quote the Bible and to say "because ... God said so" is correct, but God has His reasons, and we should search them out, Get to know Him and learn the whys.
We must get fed regularly, and we must be God focused- I was struck recently by the following:
__________________________
Slide 3
Numbers 13:2 (God speaking to Moses) Send out for yourself men so that they may spy out the land of Canaan, which I am going to give to the sons of Israel...
Moses got the twelve and sent them out saying (13:18) see what the land is like, AND whether the people who live in it are strong or weak. The types of cities they have... make an effort to get some fruit.
Slide 4
The report back verse 27 the land flows with milk and honey NEVERTHELESS the people are strong. The Lord promised them the land, but the bad report was people focused.
Focus on God not people, He promised them the land what/why did they care about the people?
___________________________
As a result of the report, those people never entered the promised land (except two- read what they said about the land and the people), instead they wandered about in the wilderness. Where are we?
___________________________
Slide 5
Hosea 4:1 Listen to the word of the Lord, O sons of Israel, For the Lord has a case against the inhabitants of the land, Because there is no faithfulness or kindness Or knowledge of God in the land.
verse 3 Therefore the land mourns...
Verse 6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge, Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being My priest. Since you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children.
____________________________
We can't have enough knowledge of God.
____________________________
Slide 6
everything we have is from God- we don't deserve anything good on our own merit. We can't praise Him enough
Hosea 6:1-3 Come let us return to the Lord. For He has torn us, but He will heal us: He has wounded us, but He will bandage us. He will revive us after two days: He will raise us up on the third day, that we may live before Him. So let us know, let us press on to know the Lord. His going forth is as certain as the dawn: and He will come to us like the rain, Like the spring rain watering the earth.
6:6 I delight in loyalty rather than sacrifice, and in the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.
____________________________
10:12 Sow with a view to righteousness, reap in accordance with kindness; break up your fallow ground, for it is time to seek the Lord until He comes to rain righteousness on you.
____________________________
Slide 7
want to serve God?- want to get to know Him? -so many distractions
be His light , be people that reflect Him. It will flow freely out of an even closer relationship with Him.
_____________________________
We'll fulfill the great commission.
prayer earnestly- Dogback Mtn.
_______________________________
Icebreaker question - who has read the Bible through. I wonder how over the years the number of people who might answer that question has changed? Is it becoming less?
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Week of June 27, 2008 thoughts.
It has been a while (about two weeks). I took my mother for her HS reuinion out of state and we had a marvelous time. I personally don't believe in coincidenses although sometimes I use the term (out of habit), but rather I believe its the favor of God. She called them "God winks" so I looked the term up Biblically and wink doesn't have too much of a positive connotation. We certainly experienced His favor. My thoughts are at the end.
Numbers 14:18 our iniquity affects our children and grandchildren and great grandchildren. Actions have consequences which is the way God made it (of course He can change those things, we cannot). He doesn't harm our children because of what we did - we do, it is a consequence of our actions.
Numbers 14:41, the people see that they have missed their chance at the promised land and God told them they had. They decide to go anyway. They even confessed their sin, but their not entering the promised land is a consequence of their previous actions. We also can't be God and do what we want, its still about what the Lord says.
Numbers 20:4-5 the Israelites ask why they left Egypt to die in the wilderness. They died in the wilderness out of their choices and actions having seen the cloud by day and the fire by night. Imagine being able to walk not very far and seeing the presence of the Lord. This statement is interesting because some people don't want to leave their bondage, they want to be slaves.
Balak and Balaam, talking donkey. Donkey saw angel of the Lord, Elisha (or Elijah- I need to look that up) saw the hosts of heaven that were there for us but his servants did not. It would be nice to see the angels working for us.
Daniels visions - after mourning three weeks, no tasty food. Tremendous visions- after a sacrifice (of sorts) and a centering on God.
Hosea 1:8 Good things for Israel come from God, good things for us from God.
What did I see on the trip to NY? A room full of people apprehensive of the future. The economy, the election, the .... References to past, lots of well wishing, Public acknowledgement of God was very rare, and it is something that isn't just in NY but everywhere I go. Sure we hear "God forbid" but that is habitual, a saying we pick up, it is seldom thought about. But I saw the favor of God constantly, and I prayed that He would bless those we came across.
A show came on TV where to gay men where raising children. A woman that did not believe this should be allowed was going to spend time there "getting to know", its all for TV and I'm sure she got paid in some way. It struck me that the real issues aren't discussed. God made it to where it takes a man and a woman to have a child (a blessing on their union) and legislation calling them a family or parents cannot change that fact. The other fact is that you can't legislate morality, preventing these people from raising (someone else's unwanted or inconvenient children) isn't going to happen just because we pass a law. Loop holes will be found. So the show focused on the woman's belief that it was wrong -although she couldn't articulate it, versus their belief that being part of this family was better than foster care. They cared for their children deeply.
Today's sermon was wonderful- submit to Christ and let Him use us as He will. I so needed that, and that we are living in His kingdom now.
It has been a while (about two weeks). I took my mother for her HS reuinion out of state and we had a marvelous time. I personally don't believe in coincidenses although sometimes I use the term (out of habit), but rather I believe its the favor of God. She called them "God winks" so I looked the term up Biblically and wink doesn't have too much of a positive connotation. We certainly experienced His favor. My thoughts are at the end.
Numbers 14:18 our iniquity affects our children and grandchildren and great grandchildren. Actions have consequences which is the way God made it (of course He can change those things, we cannot). He doesn't harm our children because of what we did - we do, it is a consequence of our actions.
Numbers 14:41, the people see that they have missed their chance at the promised land and God told them they had. They decide to go anyway. They even confessed their sin, but their not entering the promised land is a consequence of their previous actions. We also can't be God and do what we want, its still about what the Lord says.
Numbers 20:4-5 the Israelites ask why they left Egypt to die in the wilderness. They died in the wilderness out of their choices and actions having seen the cloud by day and the fire by night. Imagine being able to walk not very far and seeing the presence of the Lord. This statement is interesting because some people don't want to leave their bondage, they want to be slaves.
Balak and Balaam, talking donkey. Donkey saw angel of the Lord, Elisha (or Elijah- I need to look that up) saw the hosts of heaven that were there for us but his servants did not. It would be nice to see the angels working for us.
Daniels visions - after mourning three weeks, no tasty food. Tremendous visions- after a sacrifice (of sorts) and a centering on God.
Hosea 1:8 Good things for Israel come from God, good things for us from God.
What did I see on the trip to NY? A room full of people apprehensive of the future. The economy, the election, the .... References to past, lots of well wishing, Public acknowledgement of God was very rare, and it is something that isn't just in NY but everywhere I go. Sure we hear "God forbid" but that is habitual, a saying we pick up, it is seldom thought about. But I saw the favor of God constantly, and I prayed that He would bless those we came across.
A show came on TV where to gay men where raising children. A woman that did not believe this should be allowed was going to spend time there "getting to know", its all for TV and I'm sure she got paid in some way. It struck me that the real issues aren't discussed. God made it to where it takes a man and a woman to have a child (a blessing on their union) and legislation calling them a family or parents cannot change that fact. The other fact is that you can't legislate morality, preventing these people from raising (someone else's unwanted or inconvenient children) isn't going to happen just because we pass a law. Loop holes will be found. So the show focused on the woman's belief that it was wrong -although she couldn't articulate it, versus their belief that being part of this family was better than foster care. They cared for their children deeply.
Today's sermon was wonderful- submit to Christ and let Him use us as He will. I so needed that, and that we are living in His kingdom now.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
What a tumultuous week, lots of ups and downs and a bout with depression. All of it was about things of this world. I read the end of Leviticus and the start of Daniel. I needed reminding from Daniel this week, but it did not necessarily make it easy.
Leviticus- Don't wrong one another- that scripture spoke very clearly concerning something happening at work, and my skepticism concerning motives. That was then followed by don't make for yourselves idols. In contemplating that it occured to me that we should God first (which isn't news) and then His creation (specifically other humans), and then the things we create like institutions, and houses and cars. Putting a creation of man before a creation of God's, or anything before God Himself is idolatry. I saw real examples of that this week, well maybe its better to say I suspected it strongly.
The end of Leviticus is very comforting- if we walk in His statutes and keep His commandments, He will dwell with us walk with us. If we don't then sudden terror, invasion, fear and being ruled by those that hate us will be the reality. If your life is full of fear- embrace Him closer, until you feel Him dwelling with you and walking with you. Its interesting the fear and upleasantness is brought about by our not being obedient. Even though things are difficult he won't reject us, but our lives may not be as pleasant as we wish. Our wickedness leads to punishment but not rejection. Finally another verse on tithes. A tenth is the Lords, but if we want it back (for somethings that is possible) we must add 20% to the value to redeem it or buy it back.
Now Daniel- I rejected a promotion offer initially this week then had thoughts of reconsideration come to mind. This was followed by colleagues telling me I should reconsider. Then I got to read about Daniel. Nebuchadnezzar had a fearful dream and commanded that people not only interpret the dream but tell him what it was. I think as a manager getting those under you to state your concerns is an interesting concept. They have to be tuned in to you, and forget their own agendas. As far as knowing dreams of others that is clearly in the realm of God, and it took Daniels three friends praying for God to share the dream and its interpretation- otherwise they were going to be killed. Once God answered the prayer Daniel praised Him, something we don't do enough (or at least me).
I like to blanket praise and say anything good in me is the work of God, but specifically He does lead me, for which I am truly thankful.
Daniels interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar's dream assure him long life and success. I think that led to pride in Nebuchadnezzar's case. The entire next chapter is about the golden image he had made and ordered everyone to worship. But its another reminder of why God doesn't tell us our future. If we knew in most cases our pride would take over and we would do things whereby God would have to intervene, we would be tempted to put Him to the test. He'll give us knowledge and discernment if we ask, but seldom tell us our futures. The only exception I see to that is when our death is imminent. Many people in the Bible knew that their death would be soon, because God told them.
The golden image came about due to his pride, but the miracle of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego didn't turn him completely from his pride. An example of how we all must personally experience things that lead us to change. It wasn't until his pride caused God to make him lose his mind and he realized it that he dealt with his pride. The greatest king in history acknowledged that God could humble even him. That Belteshazzar is the next story is a reminder for us parents that our kids may know our story, but they need their own experiences to develop their behavior.
On a side note, I was reminded this last week of the lack of personal knowledge many people have of God. I sent what I thought was a blessing to people and received some surprising responses. I was also reminded in the form of an immediate prayer request that our priorities often get out of order.
My prayer is that God will bless everyone, and the people He has given me as friends to know personally I specifically remember prayerfully from time to time.
Leviticus- Don't wrong one another- that scripture spoke very clearly concerning something happening at work, and my skepticism concerning motives. That was then followed by don't make for yourselves idols. In contemplating that it occured to me that we should God first (which isn't news) and then His creation (specifically other humans), and then the things we create like institutions, and houses and cars. Putting a creation of man before a creation of God's, or anything before God Himself is idolatry. I saw real examples of that this week, well maybe its better to say I suspected it strongly.
The end of Leviticus is very comforting- if we walk in His statutes and keep His commandments, He will dwell with us walk with us. If we don't then sudden terror, invasion, fear and being ruled by those that hate us will be the reality. If your life is full of fear- embrace Him closer, until you feel Him dwelling with you and walking with you. Its interesting the fear and upleasantness is brought about by our not being obedient. Even though things are difficult he won't reject us, but our lives may not be as pleasant as we wish. Our wickedness leads to punishment but not rejection. Finally another verse on tithes. A tenth is the Lords, but if we want it back (for somethings that is possible) we must add 20% to the value to redeem it or buy it back.
Now Daniel- I rejected a promotion offer initially this week then had thoughts of reconsideration come to mind. This was followed by colleagues telling me I should reconsider. Then I got to read about Daniel. Nebuchadnezzar had a fearful dream and commanded that people not only interpret the dream but tell him what it was. I think as a manager getting those under you to state your concerns is an interesting concept. They have to be tuned in to you, and forget their own agendas. As far as knowing dreams of others that is clearly in the realm of God, and it took Daniels three friends praying for God to share the dream and its interpretation- otherwise they were going to be killed. Once God answered the prayer Daniel praised Him, something we don't do enough (or at least me).
I like to blanket praise and say anything good in me is the work of God, but specifically He does lead me, for which I am truly thankful.
Daniels interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar's dream assure him long life and success. I think that led to pride in Nebuchadnezzar's case. The entire next chapter is about the golden image he had made and ordered everyone to worship. But its another reminder of why God doesn't tell us our future. If we knew in most cases our pride would take over and we would do things whereby God would have to intervene, we would be tempted to put Him to the test. He'll give us knowledge and discernment if we ask, but seldom tell us our futures. The only exception I see to that is when our death is imminent. Many people in the Bible knew that their death would be soon, because God told them.
The golden image came about due to his pride, but the miracle of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego didn't turn him completely from his pride. An example of how we all must personally experience things that lead us to change. It wasn't until his pride caused God to make him lose his mind and he realized it that he dealt with his pride. The greatest king in history acknowledged that God could humble even him. That Belteshazzar is the next story is a reminder for us parents that our kids may know our story, but they need their own experiences to develop their behavior.
On a side note, I was reminded this last week of the lack of personal knowledge many people have of God. I sent what I thought was a blessing to people and received some surprising responses. I was also reminded in the form of an immediate prayer request that our priorities often get out of order.
My prayer is that God will bless everyone, and the people He has given me as friends to know personally I specifically remember prayerfully from time to time.
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Its been an interesting week reading in Leviticus. I used to think of sacrifice as something we lost in giving it to God, but considering in the old testament the animal gave up its life, the sacrifices of time and effort on a personal level is what God is after. Its a this world sign acknowledging our belief, an action to back up words. If your sacrifice doesn't cost you anything, then it isn't a sacrifice.
For instance if it is flour you bring for sacrifice it must be fine flour- finely ground -which takes longer more effort either personally or more cost associated in having someone grind it to that condition. The sacrifices were to be without honey or leaven (things we don't make)- bread rises without our effort, and bees make honey. If its an animal it had to be without defect- a choice animal good for reproducing and continuing income, also young so many offspring possibilities.
In the light of those kinds of sacrifices how do they compare to ours of today? Has it cost you time and physcical effort to sacrifice, are you giving Him future wealth possibilities. Now we have to be careful, He would rather have obedience than sacrifice, so like most things we can concentrate too much on sacrifice and comparing ours to other's and miss the point.
The poor are told to sacrifice, so it is possible for everyone to give up something as a sacrifice to God. I also wondered how many people who could afford sheep sacrificed turtledoves or pigeons. I'm guessing the poor would have had to make the effort to catch the birds.
Lev 14:34 is interesting, the Lord can put a mark of leprosy on a house, which will mean it will have to be inspected by the priest, and possibly reinspected. Clean and unclean and atonement, live cleanly and make atonement for uncleaness- this is going to fit later with the command to "be holy". The scapegoat also had the sins of Israel confessed over it (Verbally).
We are not supposed to eat blood or the fat. Blood is life, what is the fat??? I'm looking for that one as I read.
Most of Leviticus is defining sin and rules for living. In the book the steps of sin are clearly stated: knowledge of, confession of, sacrifice, restitution (20%) and forgiveness of those that sin against you is very important. Confession -do we confess our sins like they were told to do over the scapegoat? as we discover them verbally? Do we make sacrifice based on our transgression showing our desire to turn from our ways? Do we make restitution? Do we forgive those that sin against us?
Leviticus 17- a prescribed way to sacrifice, offer it to the Lord, you are to offer the sacrifice in a way that you don't control how the Lord uses it. Some folks sacrificed in their own way and the Lord said to cut them off from the assembly. In other words we are to give up control.
Leviticus 18 is a do and don't list, but in reading it this year it struck me that it is also God telling the Israelites what happens when people don't acknowledge Him and His ways. He is also forewarning them of the how the people in the promised land will be. They followed what they thought was good in their own eyes, and wound up sacrificing their kids. We call that behavior abortion. They became me focused and not other focused so they tried all kinds of things. God told the Israelites to follow His ways, perform His judgements, keep His statutes. Is it "hate speech" on our part when we say that our God has stated very clearly that homosexuality is not a good idea? It isn't hate to warn people who are breaking a statute of God, but rather actually an act of love, its not our opinion but His, and we recognize He will deal with those that continue or don't repent. Also its interesting that the way God prescribes things has a logical basis and in depth research supports what God has said. For example - children need a father.
Do what the Lord says, just because someone else does it, does NOT justify it. If we follow the ways of men it will be a trap.
In Leviticus 19 we are to be personally Holy just as our Father is Holy, and we are striving to walk with Him. In harvesting don't glean it all, but leave some. Leave others an opportunity, don't strive to be perfectly efficient and watch out for greed. In verse 17 correct your neighbor, but do not hate them. First fruits, first part of income or the first part of the blessings received from God are His for us to sacrifice and give back. Then there is the verse don't profane daughters and make them play the harlot and I am reminded of all the youthful pictures we see on magazine covers.
EZE 33:13 The Lord tells someone they will live due to their righteousness, and then the person trusts in the righteousness (not God)and commits iniquity. We must trust in the Lord and realize that any righteous we exhibit comes from Him. Once we get satisfied that we are righteous, then pride and iniquity is at the door.
EZE 33:14 The Lord tells the wicked they will die, and the wicked turns and becomes righteous and makes restitution- then they live. I think the key to this verse is realizing and acknowledging God holds our lives in His hand so if he tells us we will die we can believe it. Restitution is true repentance.
EZE 34:2 Shepherds should feed the flock and not themselves. The Lord will feed the flock. As part of the flock I enjoy sharing what I discover with each of you. I hope its encouraging, some of what has been shared with me has increased my desire to keep studying and going deeper.
Question -is the city described in Ezekiel former or future (it sounds like New Jerusalem, but there will be sacrifices???)?
For instance if it is flour you bring for sacrifice it must be fine flour- finely ground -which takes longer more effort either personally or more cost associated in having someone grind it to that condition. The sacrifices were to be without honey or leaven (things we don't make)- bread rises without our effort, and bees make honey. If its an animal it had to be without defect- a choice animal good for reproducing and continuing income, also young so many offspring possibilities.
In the light of those kinds of sacrifices how do they compare to ours of today? Has it cost you time and physcical effort to sacrifice, are you giving Him future wealth possibilities. Now we have to be careful, He would rather have obedience than sacrifice, so like most things we can concentrate too much on sacrifice and comparing ours to other's and miss the point.
The poor are told to sacrifice, so it is possible for everyone to give up something as a sacrifice to God. I also wondered how many people who could afford sheep sacrificed turtledoves or pigeons. I'm guessing the poor would have had to make the effort to catch the birds.
Lev 14:34 is interesting, the Lord can put a mark of leprosy on a house, which will mean it will have to be inspected by the priest, and possibly reinspected. Clean and unclean and atonement, live cleanly and make atonement for uncleaness- this is going to fit later with the command to "be holy". The scapegoat also had the sins of Israel confessed over it (Verbally).
We are not supposed to eat blood or the fat. Blood is life, what is the fat??? I'm looking for that one as I read.
Most of Leviticus is defining sin and rules for living. In the book the steps of sin are clearly stated: knowledge of, confession of, sacrifice, restitution (20%) and forgiveness of those that sin against you is very important. Confession -do we confess our sins like they were told to do over the scapegoat? as we discover them verbally? Do we make sacrifice based on our transgression showing our desire to turn from our ways? Do we make restitution? Do we forgive those that sin against us?
Leviticus 17- a prescribed way to sacrifice, offer it to the Lord, you are to offer the sacrifice in a way that you don't control how the Lord uses it. Some folks sacrificed in their own way and the Lord said to cut them off from the assembly. In other words we are to give up control.
Leviticus 18 is a do and don't list, but in reading it this year it struck me that it is also God telling the Israelites what happens when people don't acknowledge Him and His ways. He is also forewarning them of the how the people in the promised land will be. They followed what they thought was good in their own eyes, and wound up sacrificing their kids. We call that behavior abortion. They became me focused and not other focused so they tried all kinds of things. God told the Israelites to follow His ways, perform His judgements, keep His statutes. Is it "hate speech" on our part when we say that our God has stated very clearly that homosexuality is not a good idea? It isn't hate to warn people who are breaking a statute of God, but rather actually an act of love, its not our opinion but His, and we recognize He will deal with those that continue or don't repent. Also its interesting that the way God prescribes things has a logical basis and in depth research supports what God has said. For example - children need a father.
Do what the Lord says, just because someone else does it, does NOT justify it. If we follow the ways of men it will be a trap.
In Leviticus 19 we are to be personally Holy just as our Father is Holy, and we are striving to walk with Him. In harvesting don't glean it all, but leave some. Leave others an opportunity, don't strive to be perfectly efficient and watch out for greed. In verse 17 correct your neighbor, but do not hate them. First fruits, first part of income or the first part of the blessings received from God are His for us to sacrifice and give back. Then there is the verse don't profane daughters and make them play the harlot and I am reminded of all the youthful pictures we see on magazine covers.
EZE 33:13 The Lord tells someone they will live due to their righteousness, and then the person trusts in the righteousness (not God)and commits iniquity. We must trust in the Lord and realize that any righteous we exhibit comes from Him. Once we get satisfied that we are righteous, then pride and iniquity is at the door.
EZE 33:14 The Lord tells the wicked they will die, and the wicked turns and becomes righteous and makes restitution- then they live. I think the key to this verse is realizing and acknowledging God holds our lives in His hand so if he tells us we will die we can believe it. Restitution is true repentance.
EZE 34:2 Shepherds should feed the flock and not themselves. The Lord will feed the flock. As part of the flock I enjoy sharing what I discover with each of you. I hope its encouraging, some of what has been shared with me has increased my desire to keep studying and going deeper.
Question -is the city described in Ezekiel former or future (it sounds like New Jerusalem, but there will be sacrifices???)?
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