This week's Bible readings unfold as follows:
* Romans 9-10 (epistles)
* Genesis 16-19 (the Law)
* Joshua 21-24 (history)
* Psalm 12-14 (psalms)
* Job 9-10 (poetry)
* Isaiah 23-28 (prophecy)
* Matthew 11-13 (gospels)
Scripture
The passage that ties this week's Bible readings together comes from our gospel selection (Matthew 11-13) in which Jesus says to us, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light" (11:28-30).
Observation
The readings this week cover a variety of people, places, and times. But there's a unifying theme that runs through most of what we read.
We see it in Paul's reflection on God's sovereignty and human salvation (Romans 9-10).
It appears again in Genesis 16-19 in which we see God's merciful deliverance of Lot and his family before destroying Sodom and Gomorrah.
It is evident in God's renewing of his covenant with Israel (Joshua 21-24).
This unifying theme is underscored again in the words of the Psalmist:
I trust in your unfailing love;
my heart rejoices in your salvation.
I will sing to the Lord
for he has been good to me.
Psalm 13:5-6
In the midst of his suffering, Job cries out for it:
If only there were someone to arbitrate
between us,
to lay his hand upon us both.
someone to remove God's rod from me,
so that his terror would frighten me
no more.
Then I would speak up without fear of
him
but as it now stands with me, I
cannot.
Job 9:33-35
And Isaiah, speaking directly to God, describes it this way:
You will keep in perfect peace
those whose minds are steadfast,
because they trust in you.
Trust in the Lord forever,
for the Lord, the Lord, is the Rock
eternal.
Isaiah 26:3-4
The theme is trusting and thereby resting in God's unfailing mercy.
Jesus is our mediator, our arbiter, as Job put it. Because of Jesus we can "approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need" (Hebrews 4:16).
Application
As we read these beautiful sections of Scripture this week, let's make a point of trusting that God is with us every single moment...whether we are awake or asleep; whether we are thinking about this fact or not. But let's strive to be more conscious of the fact that we are yoked to Jesus. We are forever connected. When we trust in this truth, we find rest for our souls...and the stress of life will simply not have the power to keep its stranglehold on us.
Prayer
O Lord, thank you for your unfailing love that keeps us steadfast in your presence. Thank you for Jesus with whom through your grace we are yoked and for whose sake we live eternal life even now. Amen.
Have a blessed week!
Faithfully,
Chuck
Friday, January 28, 2011
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Week 4: Taking the initiative...
The reading plan for week 4 is as follows:
* Sunday (epistles): Romans 7-8
* Monday (the Law): Genesis 12-15
* Tuesday (history): Joshua 16-20
* Wednesday (psalms): Psalms 9-11
* Thursday (poetry): Job 7-8
* Friday (prophecy): Isaiah 18-22
* Saturday (gospels): Matthew 8-10
Some great passages this week, including Genesis 15 where Abram unconditionally trusts God, and God therefore calls him 'righteous'. Also included are two great chapters from Romans, where Paul acknowledges his own weakness and his need for a savior.
This week's SOAP exercise, however, is taken from lesser-known book of Joshua:
Scripture: Joshua 18:1-3
Now that the land was under Israelite control, the entire Israelite assembly gathered at Shiloh and set up the Tabernacle. But there remained seven tribes who had not yet been allotted their inheritance. Then Joshua asked them, "How long are you going to wait before taking possession of the remaining land the LORD, the God of your ancestors, has given to you?"
Observation:
In this passage we see that Israel had taken control of the land of Canaan. However, 'taking control' merely meant 'occupied'. They had not yet casted out all the inhabitants of the land and possess it for themselves, to live and thrive there, the way God had commanded. Seven of the 12 tribes were still waiting on something. From this text it appears that they did not take initiative themselves. They were just waiting for Joshua to give them orders, kind of like children who don't do their chores unless they are told/forced by their parents.
We know from chapter 13:1 that Joshua was already an old man. He had seen and experienced it all... including God's miracles. You can see his irritation and sarcasm when he asks: "How long are you going to wait..."?
Application:
From time to time I find myself in a similar situation, where I'm spiritually passive, almost lethargic. I know God has commanded me to take some action (like the Israelites were commanded to take ownership of the land), but I wait for something else to happen or someone else to encourage or force me to do it. This is not good. I need to be pro-active and take ownership and control of the things God wants me to do.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I know I'm weak and oftentimes wait on others to take initiative to build your kingdom. Help me to discern your will for my life, the tasks you have laid before me, and give me the strength and will-power to execute it to your honor and glory. In Jesus name. Amen.
Have a great week.
* Sunday (epistles): Romans 7-8
* Monday (the Law): Genesis 12-15
* Tuesday (history): Joshua 16-20
* Wednesday (psalms): Psalms 9-11
* Thursday (poetry): Job 7-8
* Friday (prophecy): Isaiah 18-22
* Saturday (gospels): Matthew 8-10
Some great passages this week, including Genesis 15 where Abram unconditionally trusts God, and God therefore calls him 'righteous'. Also included are two great chapters from Romans, where Paul acknowledges his own weakness and his need for a savior.
This week's SOAP exercise, however, is taken from lesser-known book of Joshua:
Scripture: Joshua 18:1-3
Now that the land was under Israelite control, the entire Israelite assembly gathered at Shiloh and set up the Tabernacle. But there remained seven tribes who had not yet been allotted their inheritance. Then Joshua asked them, "How long are you going to wait before taking possession of the remaining land the LORD, the God of your ancestors, has given to you?"
Observation:
In this passage we see that Israel had taken control of the land of Canaan. However, 'taking control' merely meant 'occupied'. They had not yet casted out all the inhabitants of the land and possess it for themselves, to live and thrive there, the way God had commanded. Seven of the 12 tribes were still waiting on something. From this text it appears that they did not take initiative themselves. They were just waiting for Joshua to give them orders, kind of like children who don't do their chores unless they are told/forced by their parents.
We know from chapter 13:1 that Joshua was already an old man. He had seen and experienced it all... including God's miracles. You can see his irritation and sarcasm when he asks: "How long are you going to wait..."?
Application:
From time to time I find myself in a similar situation, where I'm spiritually passive, almost lethargic. I know God has commanded me to take some action (like the Israelites were commanded to take ownership of the land), but I wait for something else to happen or someone else to encourage or force me to do it. This is not good. I need to be pro-active and take ownership and control of the things God wants me to do.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I know I'm weak and oftentimes wait on others to take initiative to build your kingdom. Help me to discern your will for my life, the tasks you have laid before me, and give me the strength and will-power to execute it to your honor and glory. In Jesus name. Amen.
Have a great week.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Week 3: Serving the right Master
This week the reading plan is as follows:
* Sunday (epistles): Romans 5-6
* Monday (the Law): Genesis 8-11
* Tuesday (history): Joshua 11-15
* Wednesday (psalms): Psalms 6-8
* Thursday (poetry): Job 5-6
* Friday (prophecy): Isaiah 12-17
* Saturday (gospels): Matthew 5-7
Several times in the past months we've talked about the S.O.A.P. method for journaling. SOAP stands for: Scripture, Observation, Application and Prayer. As you read your bible daily, we encourage you to use the SOAP method to journal:
1) select one verse (or section) that really grabs your attention that day;
2) make some simple observations about the text (for example by asking yourself questions like 'Why', 'Who', 'When', 'Where', 'What', 'How', etc.)
3) make an application for yourself, based on the observations you made
4) close your time with a simple prayer, such as asking God to help you follow through on your application
Here's a SOAP example based on this week's reading.
Scriptures:
Romans 6:16
"Don't you realize that whatever you choose to obey becomes your master? You can choose sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God and receive his approval. ... 18.Now you are free from sin, your old master, and you have become slaves to your new master, righteousness."
Matthew 6:24
"No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money."
Observation:
These verses from the letter of Paul to the Romans, and the words of Jesus in Matthew 6:24 stood out to me today. They are both linked together. Paul is saying that before we knew Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we were servants (slaves) to this master called "sin". Basically, without fully knowing it, we were slaves of sin, trapped in a destructive lifestyle that would ultimately lead to eternal death. But when we accepted Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we no longer were slaves to sin, but rather slaves (servants) of Jesus Christ, and a lifestyle of righteousness that comes with that.
Jesus is saying similar things in Matthew 5-7, his famous sermon on Mt. of Olives, also known as the 'beatitudes'. He is calling everyone to obey God and serve Him. Do away with your old sinful lifestyle, and give your life to Him. In Matthew 6:24 Jesus makes it very clear that we cannot choose both: once we serve God in our new lifestyle, we cannot hold on to our old sinful lifestyle. We cannot serve two masters. Instead we have to CHOOSE.
The apostle Paul also emphasizes that we have to choose: choose sin which leads to death, or choose to obey God. It's a choice that we have to make.
Application:
If I look at my own life, too often I find myself trying to serve two (or more) masters. I try to serve God, but I also try to please many of the other masters in my life, like people, money, sinful behavior. These words from both Paul and Jesus himself are a call to action for me, to get rid of the other masters, which means to not SERVE them like a slave, but only be committed to Jesus Christ as the only master in my life.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I acknowledge that too often I try to serve too many masters. You know that it is not my intent, but rather a left-over of my old selfish lifestyle. I pray that you help me to become more and more committed to you alone, and make your son Jesus Christ the only master in my life. In his name I pray, amen.
Have a great week as you serve our Lord.
In Him,
Dick
* Sunday (epistles): Romans 5-6
* Monday (the Law): Genesis 8-11
* Tuesday (history): Joshua 11-15
* Wednesday (psalms): Psalms 6-8
* Thursday (poetry): Job 5-6
* Friday (prophecy): Isaiah 12-17
* Saturday (gospels): Matthew 5-7
Several times in the past months we've talked about the S.O.A.P. method for journaling. SOAP stands for: Scripture, Observation, Application and Prayer. As you read your bible daily, we encourage you to use the SOAP method to journal:
1) select one verse (or section) that really grabs your attention that day;
2) make some simple observations about the text (for example by asking yourself questions like 'Why', 'Who', 'When', 'Where', 'What', 'How', etc.)
3) make an application for yourself, based on the observations you made
4) close your time with a simple prayer, such as asking God to help you follow through on your application
Here's a SOAP example based on this week's reading.
Scriptures:
Romans 6:16
"Don't you realize that whatever you choose to obey becomes your master? You can choose sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God and receive his approval. ... 18.Now you are free from sin, your old master, and you have become slaves to your new master, righteousness."
Matthew 6:24
"No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money."
Observation:
These verses from the letter of Paul to the Romans, and the words of Jesus in Matthew 6:24 stood out to me today. They are both linked together. Paul is saying that before we knew Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we were servants (slaves) to this master called "sin". Basically, without fully knowing it, we were slaves of sin, trapped in a destructive lifestyle that would ultimately lead to eternal death. But when we accepted Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we no longer were slaves to sin, but rather slaves (servants) of Jesus Christ, and a lifestyle of righteousness that comes with that.
Jesus is saying similar things in Matthew 5-7, his famous sermon on Mt. of Olives, also known as the 'beatitudes'. He is calling everyone to obey God and serve Him. Do away with your old sinful lifestyle, and give your life to Him. In Matthew 6:24 Jesus makes it very clear that we cannot choose both: once we serve God in our new lifestyle, we cannot hold on to our old sinful lifestyle. We cannot serve two masters. Instead we have to CHOOSE.
The apostle Paul also emphasizes that we have to choose: choose sin which leads to death, or choose to obey God. It's a choice that we have to make.
Application:
If I look at my own life, too often I find myself trying to serve two (or more) masters. I try to serve God, but I also try to please many of the other masters in my life, like people, money, sinful behavior. These words from both Paul and Jesus himself are a call to action for me, to get rid of the other masters, which means to not SERVE them like a slave, but only be committed to Jesus Christ as the only master in my life.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I acknowledge that too often I try to serve too many masters. You know that it is not my intent, but rather a left-over of my old selfish lifestyle. I pray that you help me to become more and more committed to you alone, and make your son Jesus Christ the only master in my life. In his name I pray, amen.
Have a great week as you serve our Lord.
In Him,
Dick
Friday, January 7, 2011
Week 2: God's Faithfulness
Now that the Christmas tree is out of the house, and ornaments, lights, and assorted decorations are stowed neatly in their places, the New Year is starting to feel "normal." And we hope that "normal" includes daily Bible readings as you make your way through 2011.
This time around, to keep things interesting, we will be jumping each day to different sections of Scripture. Scholars often construe the Bible along the lines of seven distinct literary genres: (1) epistles, (2) the Law, (3) history, (4) psalms, (5) poetry, (6) prophecy, and (7) gospels.
The readings each week will follow the same order, starting with a reading from the epistles on Sunday and ending with a gospel reading on Saturday.
This week's readings are as follows:
*Sunday (epistles): Romans 3-4
*Monday (the Law): Genesis 4-7
*Tuesday (history): Joshua 6-10
*Wednesday (psalms): Psalms 3-5
*Thursday (poetry): Job 3-4
*Friday (prophecy): Isaiah 7-11
*Saturday (gospels): Matthew 3-4
One key theme that appears in this week's readings is the faithfulness of God.
Though none of us is without sin (Rom. 3:23), God faithfully and freely justifies us "by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus" (3:24).
When human sin reached the point of no return, God faithfully devised a way to preserve the human race through Noah and his offspring (Gen. 4-7).
When the Israelites entered the Promised Land, God faithfully went before them, toppling the walls of Jericho (Josh. 6).
No matter how many foes stood against him, David could proclaim, "You are a shield around me, O Lord; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head. To the Lord I cry aloud, and he answers me from his holy hill" (Psa. 3:3-4).
Job is at the front end of his sufferings in this week's readings. But when we get to the end of the story, we will see a faithful God restoring Job's estate.
Isaiah promises a deliverer: "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel" (7:14). We know who that is!
And in our Gospel reading, we see Jesus faithfully enduring temptation after 40 days of fasting in the wilderness (Matt. 4:1-11).
What these readings show us is that God loves us unendingly. He wants us to trust him with every part of our lives...even those parts that require his grace and forgiveness (especially those parts!).
As you read through these sections of Scripture, remember that God is the same, yesterday, today, and forever. God is in the saving, healing, forgiving, and loving business. And you are the object of his greatest affection!
O Lord, thank you for being faithful to us...even when we falter. Thank you for making us your children through the saving work of Jesus Christ. Thank you for sending Christ to face temptation and endure the cross...all to give us the gift we could never deserve: the gift of everlasting life with you. Amen.
Have a great week!
Faithfully,
Chuck
This time around, to keep things interesting, we will be jumping each day to different sections of Scripture. Scholars often construe the Bible along the lines of seven distinct literary genres: (1) epistles, (2) the Law, (3) history, (4) psalms, (5) poetry, (6) prophecy, and (7) gospels.
The readings each week will follow the same order, starting with a reading from the epistles on Sunday and ending with a gospel reading on Saturday.
This week's readings are as follows:
*Sunday (epistles): Romans 3-4
*Monday (the Law): Genesis 4-7
*Tuesday (history): Joshua 6-10
*Wednesday (psalms): Psalms 3-5
*Thursday (poetry): Job 3-4
*Friday (prophecy): Isaiah 7-11
*Saturday (gospels): Matthew 3-4
One key theme that appears in this week's readings is the faithfulness of God.
Though none of us is without sin (Rom. 3:23), God faithfully and freely justifies us "by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus" (3:24).
When human sin reached the point of no return, God faithfully devised a way to preserve the human race through Noah and his offspring (Gen. 4-7).
When the Israelites entered the Promised Land, God faithfully went before them, toppling the walls of Jericho (Josh. 6).
No matter how many foes stood against him, David could proclaim, "You are a shield around me, O Lord; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head. To the Lord I cry aloud, and he answers me from his holy hill" (Psa. 3:3-4).
Job is at the front end of his sufferings in this week's readings. But when we get to the end of the story, we will see a faithful God restoring Job's estate.
Isaiah promises a deliverer: "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel" (7:14). We know who that is!
And in our Gospel reading, we see Jesus faithfully enduring temptation after 40 days of fasting in the wilderness (Matt. 4:1-11).
What these readings show us is that God loves us unendingly. He wants us to trust him with every part of our lives...even those parts that require his grace and forgiveness (especially those parts!).
As you read through these sections of Scripture, remember that God is the same, yesterday, today, and forever. God is in the saving, healing, forgiving, and loving business. And you are the object of his greatest affection!
O Lord, thank you for being faithful to us...even when we falter. Thank you for making us your children through the saving work of Jesus Christ. Thank you for sending Christ to face temptation and endure the cross...all to give us the gift we could never deserve: the gift of everlasting life with you. Amen.
Have a great week!
Faithfully,
Chuck
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Week One- Beginnings!
Sorry for the late post- we have been investigating different ways to approcah this "Read ther Bible in One Year" concept. The web has so many different plans to do this, but we found one that intrigued us and would like to get going on this immediately. This is a 52 week plan as opposed to a calendar year plan- each day is a reading from a different aspect of the Bible (listed in parenthesis). We are a couple of days behind, so there is a little catch up, so here goes...
Sunday (Epistles): Romans 1-2
Monday (The Law): Genesis 1-3
Tuesday (History): Joshua 1-5
Wednesday (Psalms): Psalms 1-2
Thursday (Poetry): Job 1-2
Friday (Prophecy): Isaiah 1-6
Saturday (Gospels): Matthew 1-2
This will help keep the reading fresh each day...
The highlights for this week are the Creation in Genesis, the march of Israel into the Promised Land, and the birth of Jesus.
While these events seem to be un-correlated, each of them represents a beginning of some sort: the beginning of the Earth, the beginning of the nation of Israel as a sovereign nation and the beginning of our salvation through Jesus Christ.
Please post yout thoughts or comments accordingly so we can either answer questions or jump in on the conversation!
In Him,
Mike, Dick & Chuck
Sunday (Epistles): Romans 1-2
Monday (The Law): Genesis 1-3
Tuesday (History): Joshua 1-5
Wednesday (Psalms): Psalms 1-2
Thursday (Poetry): Job 1-2
Friday (Prophecy): Isaiah 1-6
Saturday (Gospels): Matthew 1-2
This will help keep the reading fresh each day...
The highlights for this week are the Creation in Genesis, the march of Israel into the Promised Land, and the birth of Jesus.
While these events seem to be un-correlated, each of them represents a beginning of some sort: the beginning of the Earth, the beginning of the nation of Israel as a sovereign nation and the beginning of our salvation through Jesus Christ.
Please post yout thoughts or comments accordingly so we can either answer questions or jump in on the conversation!
In Him,
Mike, Dick & Chuck
Monday, December 27, 2010
Week 52: Revelation!
Can't believe it, but week 52 is already here! First, I'd like to commend all of you who have followed this blog one way or another. If you have finished all reading: Congratulations, you have read the entire Bible in 1 year!!! This is a big accomplishment, you stuck to it, and you finished it. Well done. If you have not finished all reading, but are now reading your Bible regularly, I’d like to congratulate you as well. I’d say this is even more important than finishing in 1 year. Reading God’s word on a daily basis is one of the most important habits you can develop as a follower of Christ, and it is life changing. Don’t worry about the fact that you haven’t finished the entire Bible in 1 year. I didn’t finish it the first time I’ve tried to read it in 1 year, but you know what… it gets easier every time you try it. Well done!! If you tried, but gave up after a while because you couldn’t keep up, I understand. I would urge you though, to pick it back up. Continue to stick your nose into the only book that can bring about true life transformation. One hint for next year: it’s ok to skip a section if you fall behind for one reason or another. Simply pick up the reading of the current day.
This last week we’ll tackle one of the most intriguing, yet one of the most difficult to understand books of the Bible: the book of Revelation:
• Weekend: Revelation 1 – 3
• Monday: Revelation 4 – 7
• Tuesday: Revelation 8 – 11
• Wednesday: Revelation 12 – 16
• Thursday: Revelation 17 – 20
• Friday: Revelation 21 – 22
There was a time in my life when all I read and studied was the book of Revelation and related prophetic scriptures such as the book of Daniel, Matthew 24, 1 & 2 Thessalonians, etc. In studying this book of the Bible, I have found the following wisdom: there are probably as many different explanations of the book as there are people trying to understand it. And every time someone thinks they understand Revelation, a book is written about it, claiming that the truth about it is now ‘unlocked’. The truth is: the book of Revelation contains a lot of symbolism that was probably well understood by the first recipients of the book in the 1st century A.D., but that is significantly more difficult to understand for a 20th century westerner.
Still, I know many of you have no clue what the book is all about, so I’d like to give you some more information than just saying that the book of Revelation displays an epic battle between ‘good’ and ‘bad’, and that the ‘good’ side wins in the end. But the only claim I will make, is that this is my interpretation of what the book is about. By no means is this a complete expository of all the different views and interpretations, such as pre-millennial or post-millennial, pre-, mid- or post tribulation, etc. This simply is a brief summary of my personal view. If you are interested in this topic, I encourage you to read many different books and commentaries about it, and then form your own view, or find one that makes most sense to you.
To better understand the book, it’s good to divide it into sub-sections that belong to each other. There are many different ways to do this, but one of the main keys to divide it is given in the book itself in Chapter 1 verse 19: “Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later.” This verse provides a natural division of the book into the following five parts:
1) Prologue (1:1-8)
2) “What you have seen” (1:9-20)
3) “What is now” (2:1 – 5:14)
4) “What will take place later” (6:1 – 22:9)
5) Epilogue (22:10-21)
The Prologue tells us who the writer of Revelation is: Jesus Christ himself (verse 1). Jesus had received this revelation from God the Father, and had passed it on to the apostle John, writer of the gospel of John and the 3 letters of John, who wrote it down in this book. In his turn, John sent this book to seven churches in Asia (current-day Turkey). As you will find out, the number 7 plays an important symbolic role in the book of Revelation, and many scholars belief that those 7 churches represent the entire church of the New Testament, over all places and all times.
“What you have seen” refers to the vision of Jesus that John saw. At his first coming, Jesus came as a ‘baby in a manger’. At his second coming, he will come as the Son of Man to judge the world with eyes like blazing fire and a sword in his mouth.
“What is now” refers to the seven churches, and the spiritual state they are in. As mentioned before, these passages can be applied to the church of all places and all times. As such, these passages contain warnings for us, and encouragement for persevering and staying the course. The passage to the church in Laodicea always speaks to me personally: we don’t want to be lukewarm in our faith, but on fire for the Lord. When Jesus stands at the door and knocks, we better hear his voice and let him in.
Chapters 4 and 5 take us into heaven, to the throne of God. We see a beautiful picture of God sitting on the throne, and all of heaven and earth worshipping him, and worshipping the Lamb of God (Jesus), who alone is worthy to open the scroll with its seven seals (5:9). Chapter 5 verse 13 shows us what this book of Revelation is ultimately all about: Every creature on heaven and earth will say: “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!”
Chapter 6 verse 1 to Chapter 22 verse 9 covers the “What will take place later” part of the book. This is the part that’s confusing to many people because of its wealth of symbolism, and the many different explanations that go around. Without going into too much detail, I’d like to give you a birds-eye view of this section. In a nutshell, we see three sevenfold numbered series:
1) Seven seals (Chapter 6)
2) Seven trumpets (Chapters 8 & 9)
3) Seven bowls (Chapter 16)
Many books about Revelation will state that each of these three series of seven contain some sort of judgment of the world. I think that’s definitely true about the seven trumpets and seven bowls, however, in my opinion, the scroll and its seven seals represent a picture of world history during the end-times. I don’t think the white horse in 6:1 is Jesus, as some say, but rather the anti-christ, who is out to conquer the world. I believe that the first 5 seals all talk about the great tribulation that will take place during the reign of the anti-christ. Seals 6 and 7 announce the 2nd coming of Jesus, who will wage war and judgment against the anti-christ.
After the intermezzo of Chapter 7 about the 144.000 sealed from the nation of Israel, Chapters 8 and 9 show us that the 7th seal ‘unlocks’ the 7 angels with the 7 trumpets. These angels with their trumpets hold judgment against the world and the kingdom of the anti-christ. What is striking to me is the response of ‘mankind’ who were not killed by the plagues from the trumpets: “they still did not repent of the work of their hands; they did not stop worshipping demons…”. Unbelievable how hard someone’s heart can be after seeing all these judgments!
Before the 7th trumpet gets blown in Chapter 11:15, there is first another intermezzo about the angel and the little scroll, and about the two witnesses in Jerusalem. This latter passage contains the time-frame 42 months and 1260 days, which both equal 3 and a half years, which many scholars explain to be the 2nd half of the last ‘year week’ (=7 years), as prophesied in Daniel 9:27.
I believe that the 7th trumpet concludes the judgment, and that the description of the 7 bowls in Revelation 15 & 16 are a detailed description of this last judgment of the 7th trumpet. In other words, chronologically, Chapters 15 and 16 continue where Chapter 11 leaves off.
Chapters 12 to 14 therefore form another intermezzo that depict the world history from a different angle, namely that of the dragon (=devil), the beast of the sea (=anti-christ), and the beast of the earth (= false prophet). One reason that I think justifies the thought that the chronology is temporarily broken in these 3 chapters, is that Chapter 12 shows us the birth of Jesus: I believe that the woman in 12:1 is a picture of the nation of Israel, from whom the Messiah was born. (12:5 is an unmistakable reference to the birth of Christ) Verse 5b then talks about the ascension of Jesus to heaven.
Ok, take a deep deep breath here. I never tried to summarize the book of Revelation in a few pages, and I feel hopelessly flawed in trying to do so. Stick with me though, as we continue this ‘birds-eye view’ of the book.
After the final judgment of Chapters 15 and 16, Chapters 17 and 18 contain another intermezzo about the ‘woman on the beast’, or ‘Babylon the great’. Several explanations exist for this ‘woman’. The most common one is that this woman represents the (non-christian) ‘world religion’ that is followed during the reign of the anti-christ. The woman also represents a city, ‘Babylon’. Many scholars belief that this was a reference to ‘Rome’ (7 hills, see 17:9) and its emperors in the 1st century A.D.. Dependent on how you explain, the 8th king of 17:11 is then either Nero (54-68A.D), or Domitianus (81-96A.D). Without a doubt, the readers in the 1st century A.D. would have made this connection, and I belief part of this scripture is fulfilled in these emperors. However, history has shown us many different ‘anti-christs’, such as Antiochus Epiphanes, Nero, or Hitler for that matter. Whenever evil raises its head on a large scale, an anti-christ appears and the devil (dragon) gives his power away to destroy. I belief we still have to expect (at least) one more anti-christ who will fulfill all these scriptures, and who will be the personification of the devil on earth.
Chapter 19 shows us who will ultimately conquer the anti-christ: Jesus Christ and his army of saints (19:14). He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and the beast (=anti-christ) and false prophet are thrown into the lake of fire, which is a picture of hell.
Chapter 20:1-6 is one of the shortest sections of scripture that has caused great controversy in terms of how to explain it. It talks about the 1000 year reign of Christ, also called the ‘millennium’. Many scholars belief that many of the old-testament prophesies about the restoration of Israel’s kingdom (the day of the Lord), and prophesies from Isaiah about the lion and lamb being together, etc., will take place during these 1000 years. Because of all that’s written about this subject, I will not go into detail here . Let’s just take the text for what it is: after judgment of the anti-christ, Jesus will reign on earth for an extended period of time, together with all the believers who will be resurrected (20:5-6). The devil, who had given his power to the anti-christ, will not be able to do anything for these 1000 years. After those 1000 years, he will have one more chance to wreak havoc, but he too will be thrown into the pit of hell (20:10).
After judgment of Satan, the final judgment will take place before the white throne. I believe this is the judgment of the non-believers, everyone who has willfully denied Christ as their savior. Note how this judgment is called the ‘second death’ (20:14), in contrast to the ‘first resurrection’ of the believers (20:5-6).
Chapters 21 and 22 conclude with a beautiful picture of the new heaven and new earth, and the new Jerusalem coming down from heaven. A lot can be said about these two chapters alone, but suffice it to say that the main thing we take away from this is that heaven and earth will become one. God will tabernacle (=reside) among the people, and we will see his face, and that of the Lamb (=Jesus) day and night, and worship him before his throne. Chapter 21:22 says: “I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple”. And the glory of God will be its light and the Lamb is its lamp (nice play of words…).
Chapter 22:1-5 contain some of the most encouraging and comforting verses of the entire Bible. This is our hope and future, folks. Hang in there if you are going through a tough time right now. This life is temporary, but the life described in verses 1-5 is eternal!!
The book closes with an epilogue, and a warning for those who read it (22:18-19): we are not to add nor take away from the words of this book. I’m not sure, but I’m afraid many have not taken this warning to heart. I encourage you to see it as an exhortation to take the words of this book very seriously. And not just this book, but the entire Bible.
I hope this 50,000 feet view of the book of Revelation was useful to you. Let me state again that many of the things said here, represents my personal view of the subject. The more you read this book, the more you will shape your own view and thoughts. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask them on the blog or in person. Thank you for your faithfulness in sticking with the reading program. We will do it all again next year. And the year after that and after that… until Jesus will come back to establish his kingdom here on earth.
The Spirit and the bride (=we, the church) say, “Come!” And let him who hears say, “Come!” Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life”. Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!
In Him,
Dick
This last week we’ll tackle one of the most intriguing, yet one of the most difficult to understand books of the Bible: the book of Revelation:
• Weekend: Revelation 1 – 3
• Monday: Revelation 4 – 7
• Tuesday: Revelation 8 – 11
• Wednesday: Revelation 12 – 16
• Thursday: Revelation 17 – 20
• Friday: Revelation 21 – 22
There was a time in my life when all I read and studied was the book of Revelation and related prophetic scriptures such as the book of Daniel, Matthew 24, 1 & 2 Thessalonians, etc. In studying this book of the Bible, I have found the following wisdom: there are probably as many different explanations of the book as there are people trying to understand it. And every time someone thinks they understand Revelation, a book is written about it, claiming that the truth about it is now ‘unlocked’. The truth is: the book of Revelation contains a lot of symbolism that was probably well understood by the first recipients of the book in the 1st century A.D., but that is significantly more difficult to understand for a 20th century westerner.
Still, I know many of you have no clue what the book is all about, so I’d like to give you some more information than just saying that the book of Revelation displays an epic battle between ‘good’ and ‘bad’, and that the ‘good’ side wins in the end. But the only claim I will make, is that this is my interpretation of what the book is about. By no means is this a complete expository of all the different views and interpretations, such as pre-millennial or post-millennial, pre-, mid- or post tribulation, etc. This simply is a brief summary of my personal view. If you are interested in this topic, I encourage you to read many different books and commentaries about it, and then form your own view, or find one that makes most sense to you.
To better understand the book, it’s good to divide it into sub-sections that belong to each other. There are many different ways to do this, but one of the main keys to divide it is given in the book itself in Chapter 1 verse 19: “Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later.” This verse provides a natural division of the book into the following five parts:
1) Prologue (1:1-8)
2) “What you have seen” (1:9-20)
3) “What is now” (2:1 – 5:14)
4) “What will take place later” (6:1 – 22:9)
5) Epilogue (22:10-21)
The Prologue tells us who the writer of Revelation is: Jesus Christ himself (verse 1). Jesus had received this revelation from God the Father, and had passed it on to the apostle John, writer of the gospel of John and the 3 letters of John, who wrote it down in this book. In his turn, John sent this book to seven churches in Asia (current-day Turkey). As you will find out, the number 7 plays an important symbolic role in the book of Revelation, and many scholars belief that those 7 churches represent the entire church of the New Testament, over all places and all times.
“What you have seen” refers to the vision of Jesus that John saw. At his first coming, Jesus came as a ‘baby in a manger’. At his second coming, he will come as the Son of Man to judge the world with eyes like blazing fire and a sword in his mouth.
“What is now” refers to the seven churches, and the spiritual state they are in. As mentioned before, these passages can be applied to the church of all places and all times. As such, these passages contain warnings for us, and encouragement for persevering and staying the course. The passage to the church in Laodicea always speaks to me personally: we don’t want to be lukewarm in our faith, but on fire for the Lord. When Jesus stands at the door and knocks, we better hear his voice and let him in.
Chapters 4 and 5 take us into heaven, to the throne of God. We see a beautiful picture of God sitting on the throne, and all of heaven and earth worshipping him, and worshipping the Lamb of God (Jesus), who alone is worthy to open the scroll with its seven seals (5:9). Chapter 5 verse 13 shows us what this book of Revelation is ultimately all about: Every creature on heaven and earth will say: “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!”
Chapter 6 verse 1 to Chapter 22 verse 9 covers the “What will take place later” part of the book. This is the part that’s confusing to many people because of its wealth of symbolism, and the many different explanations that go around. Without going into too much detail, I’d like to give you a birds-eye view of this section. In a nutshell, we see three sevenfold numbered series:
1) Seven seals (Chapter 6)
2) Seven trumpets (Chapters 8 & 9)
3) Seven bowls (Chapter 16)
Many books about Revelation will state that each of these three series of seven contain some sort of judgment of the world. I think that’s definitely true about the seven trumpets and seven bowls, however, in my opinion, the scroll and its seven seals represent a picture of world history during the end-times. I don’t think the white horse in 6:1 is Jesus, as some say, but rather the anti-christ, who is out to conquer the world. I believe that the first 5 seals all talk about the great tribulation that will take place during the reign of the anti-christ. Seals 6 and 7 announce the 2nd coming of Jesus, who will wage war and judgment against the anti-christ.
After the intermezzo of Chapter 7 about the 144.000 sealed from the nation of Israel, Chapters 8 and 9 show us that the 7th seal ‘unlocks’ the 7 angels with the 7 trumpets. These angels with their trumpets hold judgment against the world and the kingdom of the anti-christ. What is striking to me is the response of ‘mankind’ who were not killed by the plagues from the trumpets: “they still did not repent of the work of their hands; they did not stop worshipping demons…”. Unbelievable how hard someone’s heart can be after seeing all these judgments!
Before the 7th trumpet gets blown in Chapter 11:15, there is first another intermezzo about the angel and the little scroll, and about the two witnesses in Jerusalem. This latter passage contains the time-frame 42 months and 1260 days, which both equal 3 and a half years, which many scholars explain to be the 2nd half of the last ‘year week’ (=7 years), as prophesied in Daniel 9:27.
I believe that the 7th trumpet concludes the judgment, and that the description of the 7 bowls in Revelation 15 & 16 are a detailed description of this last judgment of the 7th trumpet. In other words, chronologically, Chapters 15 and 16 continue where Chapter 11 leaves off.
Chapters 12 to 14 therefore form another intermezzo that depict the world history from a different angle, namely that of the dragon (=devil), the beast of the sea (=anti-christ), and the beast of the earth (= false prophet). One reason that I think justifies the thought that the chronology is temporarily broken in these 3 chapters, is that Chapter 12 shows us the birth of Jesus: I believe that the woman in 12:1 is a picture of the nation of Israel, from whom the Messiah was born. (12:5 is an unmistakable reference to the birth of Christ) Verse 5b then talks about the ascension of Jesus to heaven.
Ok, take a deep deep breath here. I never tried to summarize the book of Revelation in a few pages, and I feel hopelessly flawed in trying to do so. Stick with me though, as we continue this ‘birds-eye view’ of the book.
After the final judgment of Chapters 15 and 16, Chapters 17 and 18 contain another intermezzo about the ‘woman on the beast’, or ‘Babylon the great’. Several explanations exist for this ‘woman’. The most common one is that this woman represents the (non-christian) ‘world religion’ that is followed during the reign of the anti-christ. The woman also represents a city, ‘Babylon’. Many scholars belief that this was a reference to ‘Rome’ (7 hills, see 17:9) and its emperors in the 1st century A.D.. Dependent on how you explain, the 8th king of 17:11 is then either Nero (54-68A.D), or Domitianus (81-96A.D). Without a doubt, the readers in the 1st century A.D. would have made this connection, and I belief part of this scripture is fulfilled in these emperors. However, history has shown us many different ‘anti-christs’, such as Antiochus Epiphanes, Nero, or Hitler for that matter. Whenever evil raises its head on a large scale, an anti-christ appears and the devil (dragon) gives his power away to destroy. I belief we still have to expect (at least) one more anti-christ who will fulfill all these scriptures, and who will be the personification of the devil on earth.
Chapter 19 shows us who will ultimately conquer the anti-christ: Jesus Christ and his army of saints (19:14). He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and the beast (=anti-christ) and false prophet are thrown into the lake of fire, which is a picture of hell.
Chapter 20:1-6 is one of the shortest sections of scripture that has caused great controversy in terms of how to explain it. It talks about the 1000 year reign of Christ, also called the ‘millennium’. Many scholars belief that many of the old-testament prophesies about the restoration of Israel’s kingdom (the day of the Lord), and prophesies from Isaiah about the lion and lamb being together, etc., will take place during these 1000 years. Because of all that’s written about this subject, I will not go into detail here . Let’s just take the text for what it is: after judgment of the anti-christ, Jesus will reign on earth for an extended period of time, together with all the believers who will be resurrected (20:5-6). The devil, who had given his power to the anti-christ, will not be able to do anything for these 1000 years. After those 1000 years, he will have one more chance to wreak havoc, but he too will be thrown into the pit of hell (20:10).
After judgment of Satan, the final judgment will take place before the white throne. I believe this is the judgment of the non-believers, everyone who has willfully denied Christ as their savior. Note how this judgment is called the ‘second death’ (20:14), in contrast to the ‘first resurrection’ of the believers (20:5-6).
Chapters 21 and 22 conclude with a beautiful picture of the new heaven and new earth, and the new Jerusalem coming down from heaven. A lot can be said about these two chapters alone, but suffice it to say that the main thing we take away from this is that heaven and earth will become one. God will tabernacle (=reside) among the people, and we will see his face, and that of the Lamb (=Jesus) day and night, and worship him before his throne. Chapter 21:22 says: “I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple”. And the glory of God will be its light and the Lamb is its lamp (nice play of words…).
Chapter 22:1-5 contain some of the most encouraging and comforting verses of the entire Bible. This is our hope and future, folks. Hang in there if you are going through a tough time right now. This life is temporary, but the life described in verses 1-5 is eternal!!
The book closes with an epilogue, and a warning for those who read it (22:18-19): we are not to add nor take away from the words of this book. I’m not sure, but I’m afraid many have not taken this warning to heart. I encourage you to see it as an exhortation to take the words of this book very seriously. And not just this book, but the entire Bible.
I hope this 50,000 feet view of the book of Revelation was useful to you. Let me state again that many of the things said here, represents my personal view of the subject. The more you read this book, the more you will shape your own view and thoughts. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask them on the blog or in person. Thank you for your faithfulness in sticking with the reading program. We will do it all again next year. And the year after that and after that… until Jesus will come back to establish his kingdom here on earth.
The Spirit and the bride (=we, the church) say, “Come!” And let him who hears say, “Come!” Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life”. Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!
In Him,
Dick
Monday, December 20, 2010
Week 51: James through Jude
Less than two weeks to go before this year's journey through the Bible comes to a close. We trust that it has been a rewarding effort...and it takes effort to stick with a commitment like this for the whole year.
Perhaps you missed some reading along the way.
Not to worry!
There's always next year.
For now, we still have some great material in front of us before the year draws to a close. Here's how this week's reading unfolds:
* Weekend: James 1-5
* Monday: 1 Peter 1-5
* Tuesday: 2 Peter 1-3
* Wednesday: 1 John 1-5
* Thursday: 2 John (extra short reading...good for last-minute Christmas shopping)
* Friday: 3 John and Jude (another light reading day)
Even though we have a light reading load this week, it is rich with content. It contains some of the most practical advice that we find in the New Testament. James teaches us how to put trials and tribulations into the right perspective. He helps us "put feet" on our faith by insisting that what we believe is evidenced by how we live (novel concept, eh?). James teaches us how to "tame the tongue." He contrasts the so-called wisdom of the world and the "wisdom that comes from heaven." He helps us put our ambitions for success into perspective and he encourages us to hang in there during tough times.
Peter's two letters are equally helpful...as are the letters of John and Jude. But enough commentary...
It's time to get into the Word!
Happy reading...
Faithfully,
Chuck
Perhaps you missed some reading along the way.
Not to worry!
There's always next year.
For now, we still have some great material in front of us before the year draws to a close. Here's how this week's reading unfolds:
* Weekend: James 1-5
* Monday: 1 Peter 1-5
* Tuesday: 2 Peter 1-3
* Wednesday: 1 John 1-5
* Thursday: 2 John (extra short reading...good for last-minute Christmas shopping)
* Friday: 3 John and Jude (another light reading day)
Even though we have a light reading load this week, it is rich with content. It contains some of the most practical advice that we find in the New Testament. James teaches us how to put trials and tribulations into the right perspective. He helps us "put feet" on our faith by insisting that what we believe is evidenced by how we live (novel concept, eh?). James teaches us how to "tame the tongue." He contrasts the so-called wisdom of the world and the "wisdom that comes from heaven." He helps us put our ambitions for success into perspective and he encourages us to hang in there during tough times.
Peter's two letters are equally helpful...as are the letters of John and Jude. But enough commentary...
It's time to get into the Word!
Happy reading...
Faithfully,
Chuck
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