This article is written to let you know the two Christian rites namely Baptism and the Lord’s Supper do not save people. Read more on the article of Baptism. The Lord’s Supper is a pure remembrance of the death and suffering of Jesus Christ until He returns to reign.
Many do not know what is the Lord’s Supper or what is Baptism. The Lord’s Supper is not what the Catholics call Mass. This article is written to let you know what the Lord’s Supper or Holy Communion is. Christianity or the Christian faith has only two rites or sacraments, namely baptism and the Lord’s Supper or the Holy Communion or the Eucharist. Please read my article on BAPTISM.The word ‘rite’ occurs in the Bible, only in the Old Testament.
Exd 12:25 -27, “When you enter the land which the LORD will give you, as He has promised, you shall observe this rite. And when your children say to you: What does this rite mean to you? You shall say: It is a Passover sacrifice to the LORD who passed over the houses of the sons of Israel in Egypt when He smote the Egyptians, but spared our homes. And the people bowed low and worshiped.”
Exd 13:5 ,“It shall be when the LORD brings you to the land of the Canaanite, the Hittite, the Amorite, the Hivite and the Jebusite, which He swore to your fathers to give you, a land flowing with milk and honey, that you shall observe this rite in this month.”
Num 9:14 ,“And if a stranger dwells among you, and would keep the Lord’s Passover, he must do so according to the rite of the Passover and according to its ceremony; you shall have one ordinance, both for the stranger and the native of the land.”
Note: Rite in Hebrew is ` abodahwhich means a sacred service, a sacred ceremony; – it occurs 141 times in the Old Testament. The word ‘rite’ does not occur in the New Testament. It is right to think of rite as ceremony. Baptism is a ceremony of identifying with Jesus Christ, declaring to the world that you are a Christian and belong to Christ. The Lord’s Supper is a ceremony of remembering the death of Jesus Christ who died bodily for our sins until He returns. These are simple truths taught in the Bible. There is no mystery about them.
Christianity does not have nor practice liturgy. The word ‘liturgy’ does not exist in the Bible. The more dead or lifeless a religion is the more liturgies it has. Christians observe baptism and the Lord’s Supper by the authority of Jesus Christ, not the pope, or apostle, or anyone else.
Christians do not believe in Eucharistic theology or any theology made by men, only in the Biblical theology as it is written in the Scriptures. The Lord’s Supper is also called the Last Supper because it took place right before Jesus was going to die on the cross for sinners. The Lord’s Supper is also called the Holy Communion, the communion of believers with the Lord through the Holy Spirit.
1Cr 10:16 ,“The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?”
2Cr 6:14 ,“Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?”
2Cr 13:14 ,“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen.”
Note: Communion in Greek is koinōnia which means fellowship, association, joint participation, the share which one has in anything, participation; – it occurs 20 times in the New Testament. Communion means the sharing in the benefits of Christ’s death and in the mystical body of Christ which is the Church.
The Lord’s Supper is also called the Eucharist or the Sacrament. The word ‘Eucharist’ does not exist in the Bible. The word ‘sacrament’ also does not exist in the Bible. Eucharist means sacrament of the Lord’s Supper. A sacrament is a sacred rite. Based on their simple definitions, Eucharist and sacrament do not have conflict with the Bible. The Catechism of the Catholic Church defines the sacraments as “efficacious signs of grace, instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church, by which divine life is dispensed to us. The visible rites by which the sacraments are celebrated signify and make present the graces proper to each sacrament. They bear fruit in those who receive them with the required dispositions.” The elaboration of the term does not have Biblical support, infused with tradition, confusion and teaching of men. The catechism included in the Anglican Book of Common Prayer defines a sacrament as “an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace given unto us, ordained by Christ himself, as a means whereby we receive the same, and a pledge to assure us thereof.” I cannot find anywhere in the Bible that defines or explains baptism or the Lord’s Supper as inward and spiritual graces. Perhaps the word ‘ordinance’ is more appropriate than the word ‘sacrament’. However, I cannot find anywhere in the Bible the distinction that ‘sacrament’ stresses mainly, but not solely, what God does; and ‘ordinance’ what the Christians do. True, baptism and the Lord’s Supper must be permanently observed by the Church until Jesus returns.
There are seven sacraments in the Catholic Church: Baptism, Confirmation or Chrismation, Eucharist, Penance, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony. Except baptism and the Lord’s Supper, the rest were invented by the Catholic Church. Anglican teaching is that there are two Sacraments ordained of Christ our Lord in the Gospel, that is to say, Baptism and the Supper of the Lord, and that those five called Sacraments, that is to say, Confirmation, Penance, Orders, Matrimony, and Extreme Unction, are not to be counted for Sacraments of the Gospel. Although I am not an Anglican, I hold the Anglican position to be Biblical. Furthermore, no where in the Bible teaches that all who receive the sacrament also receive forgiveness of sins and eternal salvation. It is equally wrong to add or delete the ordinances of the Lord. The meanings of the Lord’s Supper are clearly spelled out in the Bible; however, the Catholic Church invented the doctrine of transubstantiation, which is false and will be dealt with later.
1. Jesus Christ instituted the Lord’s Supper.
Luk 22:11 ，”And you shall say to the owner of the house, The Teacher
says to you: Where is the guest room in which I may eat the Passover
with My disciples?”
Note: It was very significant when the Jews ate the Passover, Jesus
instituted the Lord’s Supper; and the Jewish Passover became the
Christian Good Friday when the Lamb of God was slain. Do you have a
guest room for Jesus Christ? Do you have room for Jesus in your heart?
Mat 26:18 -30 ，“And He said: Go into the city to a certain man, and say
to him, The Teacher says: My time is at hand; I will keep the Passover at your house with My disciples. So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them; and they prepared the Passover. When evening had come, He sat down with the twelve. Now as they were eating, He said: Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray Me. And they were exceedingly sorrowful, and each of them began to say to Him: Lord, is it I? He answered and said: He who dipped his hand with Me in the dish will betray Me. The Son of Man indeed goes just as it is written of Him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been good for that man if he had not been born. Then Judas, who was betraying Him, answered and said: Rabbi, is it I? He said to him: You have said it. And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said: Take, eat; this is My body. Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying: Drink from it, all of you. For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. But I say to you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in My Father’s kingdom. And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.”
Note: A certain man; there is always a certain man designated to do a
certain thing. Do you know what Jesus designates you to do? Are you a certain man with a mission? The disciples did as Jesus had directed.
Christians must always do as Jesus had directed. What Jesus had
directed are written in the Bible and personally led by the Holy Spirit.
Direct in Greek is syntassō which means to put in order with or together, to arrange, prescribe, appoint; – it occurs only twice in the New Testament. God arranges things for His children. Watch out for
self-appointed so-called Christian leaders who do not have the Spirit of
Christ in them, they try to lead Christians astray. Do not follow them.
One of the disciples called Judas betrayed Jesus. Betray in Greek is
paradidōmi which means to give into the hands of another, deliver up
treacherously, by betrayal to cause one to be taken; – it occurs 121 times in the New Testament. Outsiders cannot betray Jesus; false prophets, false teachers and false brothers can betray Jesus. Those who preach false gospels betray Jesus. Those who lead believers astray betray Jesus. Those who merchandise the gospel for profit betray Jesus. Those who deny Jesus is the Son of God betray Jesus. Those who appoint gay preachers and support same-sex marriage betray the Lord. Woe to those who betray the Lord. It would have been good if a traitor had not been born. The bread symbolizes the body of Christ, and the wine symbolizes the blood of Christ. The blood of Christ was shed for the remission of sins. Remission in Greek is aphesis which means forgiveness or pardon, of sins letting them go as if they had never been committed, remission of the penalty, deliverance; – it occurs 17 times in the New Testament. This was the Last Supper because Jesus would not drink this fruit of the vine again until that day when Jesus drinks it new with believers in His Father’s kingdom. They sang a hymn. Sing hymn in Greek is hymneōwhich means to sing the praise of, sing hymns to; – it occurs only 4 times in the New Testament. Christians sing hymns to praise God and because they rejoice in the Lord. Christianity is the only religion (in addition to Judaism) that sings hymns and spiritual songs. All other religions moan and groan. Have you noticed that other religions also try to acquire some form of singing?
Luk 22:15 ,“And He said to them: I have earnestly desired to eat this
Passover with you before I suffer.”
Note: Jesus Christ had greatly desired to eat this Passover with disciples before He died. To be crucified was to under go an unspeakable suffering.
1Pe 2:21 ,“For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for
us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps:”
Note: Christ leaves us an example; to follow Jesus’ steps is to suffer for Him. Not to fancy yourself what would Jesus do in a certain situation, for Jesus does not vote, does not marry, does not need a job, does not buy a house, etc. Jesus is completely unlike any human being for He is the Son of God with the mission to save mankind. Jesus Christ came to the world to die for sinners. Do those false prophets and false teachers come to die? Do they come to suffer?
Jhn 21:20 ,“Then Peter, turning around, saw the disciple whom Jesus
loved following, who also had leaned on His breast at the supper, and
said: Lord, who is the one who betrays You?”
Note: In the last days there are many who betray the Lord by loving the
world, by backsliding, by denying the Lord, by preaching and following
false doctrines. Do not betray the Lord by your thought, word, or deed.
Jhn 13:1-5 ,“Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew
that His hour had come that He should depart from this world to the
Father, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to
the end. And supper being ended, the devil having already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray Him, Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was going to God, rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself. After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded.”
Jhn 13:21-34, “When Jesus had said these things, He was troubled in
spirit, and testified and said: Truly, truly, I say to you, one of you will
betray Me. Then the disciples looked at one another, perplexed about
whom He spoke. Now there was leaning on Jesus’ bosom one of His
disciples, whom Jesus loved. Simon Peter therefore motioned to him to ask who it was of whom He spoke. Then, leaning back on Jesus’ breast, he said to Him： Lord, who is it? Jesus answered: It is he to whom I shall give a piece of bread when I have dipped it. And having dipped the bread, He gave it to Judas Iscariot, [the son] of Simon. Now after the piece of bread, Satan entered him. Then Jesus said to him: What you do, do quickly. But no one at the table knew for what reason He said this to him. For some thought, because Judas had the money box, that Jesus had said to him: Buy those things we need for the feast, or that he should give something to the poor. Having received the piece of bread, he then went out immediately. And it was night. So, when he had gone out, Jesus said: Now the Son of Man is glorified, and God is glorified in Him. If God is glorified in Him, God will also glorify Him in Himself, and glorify Him immediately. Little children, I shall be with you a little while longer. You will seek Me; and as I said to the Jews: Where I am going, you cannot come, so now I say to you. A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.”
Jhn 13:4-5,“Rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself. After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded.”
Note: In addition to instituting the Lord’s Supper, Jesus also set an
example of humility by washing the disciples’ feet. Almost all masters or founders of religions wanted their followers to wash their feet.
1Cr 10:16 -23 ，“The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the
communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not
the communion of the body of Christ? For we, though many, are one
bread and one body; for we all partake of that one bread. Observe Israel after the flesh: Are not those who eat of the sacrifices partakers of the altar? What am I saying then? That an idol is anything, or what is offered to idols is anything? Rather, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice they sacrifice to demons and not to God, and I do not want you to have fellowship with demons. You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons; you cannot partake of the Lord’s table and of the table of demons. Or do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? Are we stronger than He? All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify.”
Note: Communion in Greek is koinōniawhich means sharing;
participation; an embodiment and proof of fellowship;
partnership; social intercourse; a Christian sacrament in which consecrated bread and wine are consumed as memorials of Christ’s death or as symbols for the realization of a spiritual union between Christ and communicant or as the body and blood of Christ (Merriam-Webster Dictionary); – which occurs 19 times in the New Testament.
It is wrong for some Taiwanese politicians who claim to be
Christians who worship idols and participate in Buddhist
temple services. No Christian can have fellowship or
communion with demons. No Christian can partake of the
Lord ’s Table and the table of demons. Idolatry provokes the
Lord to anger and wrath.
2. The symbols of the Lord’s Supper.
There are two symbols, namely, the bread and the wine. Bread and wine are symbols of the body of Christ and His blood, not the real things.
Luk 22:14-20,“When the hour had come, He sat down, and the twelve
apostles with Him. Then He said to them: With fervent desire I have
desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; for I say to you, I
will no longer eat of it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God. Then He
took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, take this and divide it among
yourselves; for I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until
the kingdom of God comes. And He took bread, gave thanks and broke
it, and gave it to them, saying: This is My body which is given for you;
do this in remembrance of Me. Likewise He also took the cup after
supper, saying: This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.”
Note: The bread symbolizes the body of Jesus which was given for believers. Jesus died a bodily death on the cross with all the pain and anguish, and rose again from the dead with glorious and spiritual body. The cup symbolizes the blood of Christ which was shed for the sins of believers. Since they are symbols, they are not the real physical things.
Jhn 6:35 ,“And Jesus said to them: I am the Bread of Life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst.”
Jhn 6:41 ,“The Jews then complained about Him, because He said: I am the Bread which came down from Heaven.”
Note: These Scriptures say that Jesus is the Bread of Life. Yes, it is a
figure of speech. True, Jesus is more important than bread, because the bread we eat we will be hungry again and die. To have Jesus the bread of life, we will never hunger and never thirst and never die. So the bread of life is more real than anything because Jesus is the Life.
Jhn 8:12 ,“Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying: I am the Light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the Light of life.”
Note: Jesus is not the sunlight, candlelight, or electric light. Jesus is the Light of the world. This is real, more real than the sunlight. Because Jesus is the true Light, the eternal Light. He who follows Christ will not walk in darkness, but have the Light of life. Only with Jesus as your Light, you can see the truth, you can see God.
Jhn 10:9 ,“I AM the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and
will go in and out and find pasture.”
Note: Jesus is not the door made of wood or metal. Jesus is the Door,
the Door of salvation. If anyone enters by Jesus, he will be saved, and
will go in and out and find pasture like a sheep.
Jhn 10:11 ,“I AM the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd gives His life
for the sheep.”
Note: Jesus is the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd gives His life for the sheep. Jesus died for believers. The followers of Christ are His sheep.
Jhn 10:14 ,“I AM the Good Shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am
known by My own.”
Note: Jesus knows His sheep, and His sheep know Him. If you do not
know Christ because you are not His sheep.
Jhn 10:36 , “Do you say of Him whom the Father sanctified and sent into the world: You are blaspheming, because I said: I am the Son of God?”
Note: Jesus is the Son of God, literally and spiritually and eternally true
and true.
Jhn 11:25 ,“Jesus said to her: I am the Resurrection and the Life. He
who believes in Me, though he may die, yet he shall live.”
Note: Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life. It is true. He who believes
in Christ, though he may die, yet he shall live.
Jhn 14:6 ,“Jesus said to him: I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No
one comes to the Father except through Me.”
Note: Jesus is the Way, the way to God, the way to salvation, the way to Heaven. It is absolutely true. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. To know Jesus is the Way is to know the Truth. To know the Truth is to have life. No one comes to the Father except through Jesus.
Jhn 15:5 ,“I AM the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me,
and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.”
Note: Jesus is the vine, the true Vine; Christians are the branches. He
who abides in Christ, and Christ in him, bears much fruit; for without
Christ believers can do nothing. Just as branches can do nothing
without the vine, so Christians can do nothing without Christ.
The symbols of the Lord’s Supper are symbols, not realities. But Jesus
Christ is more real than reality. What you can see is temporary, what
you cannot see is eternal. Spiritual truth is more than scientific truth
because it is eternal truth. The Word of Christ is the truth.
3. The meanings of the Lord’s Supper.
Luk 22:19 , “And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying: This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.”
Note: Remembrance in Greek is anamnēsiswhich means a
remembering; recollection; bearing in mind; ability to
remember; commemoration; which occurs 4 times in the
New Testament. It can be said to have the Lord’s Supper is a commemoration of the Lord’s death and sufferings on the
cross for our behalf.
Luk 22:20 ,“Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying: This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.”
1Cr 11:24-25 ,“And when He had given thanks, He broke it and said:
This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me. In the
same way He took the cup also after supper, saying: This cup is the new covenant in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembranceof Me.”
Note: The body of Christ was given to believers because Jesus Christ
sacrificed Himself on the cross to die for sinners. His body bore our sins and sorrows and endured pain. The meaning of the Lord’s Supper is not a reenactment of the sacrifice, but symbolizes the suffering and death of Jesus Christ for Christians. The sacrifice of Jesus was once and for all. It was finished, but Christians must do the Lord’s Supper in remembrance of Christ until He returns to reign with the saints.
Catholics do Mass as an reenactment of the Lord’s sacrifice on the cross for our sins is un-scriptural. Jesus only died once for all, and it was finished.
Isa 53:5 ,“But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was
crushed for our iniquities; the chastening for our well-being fell upon
Him, And by His scourging we are healed.”
Note: Pierce in Hebrew is chalal which means to wound fatally, bore
through; – it occurs about 141 times in the Old Testament. Transgression in Hebrew is pesha` which means rebellion against God, sin, trespass; – it occurs about 93 times in the Old Testament. Crush in Hebrew is daka’which means to be broken, to be bruised, smitten with stripes; – it occurs 18 times in the Old Testament. Iniquity in Hebrew is `avonwhich means perversity, depravity, guilt or punishment of iniquity; – it occurs about 230 times in the Old Testament. Scourging in Hebrew is muwcarwhich means chastening, discipline, correction; – it occurs 50 times in the Old Testament.
Heal in Hebrew is rapha’ which means to make healthful, sew together,
restore to health; – it occurs 67 times in the Old Testament. The Book of
Isaiah was the book of the Gospel in the Old Testament. The Old
Testament prophet Isaiah preached the good news of the Messiah. In
summary, the meaning of the Lord’s Supper is to remember the
sufferings and death of Jesus Christ for sinners.
4. The purpose of the Lord’s Supper.
A. Bringing us to God.
1Pe 3:18 ,“For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust,
that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made
alive by the Spirit.”
Note: Suffer in Greek is paschō which means to be afflicted, to be in
bad plight, undergo evils; – it occurs 42 times in the New Testament. The suffering of Christ was not martyrized or victimized, it was substitutionary or vicarious, the Just for the unjust. Bring in Greek is prosago which means to open a way of access for one to God, lead,
draw near to, approach; – it occurs only 4 times in the New Testament.
Jesus Christ suffered once for sins. Once in Greek is hapax which
means once for all, one time; – it occurs 15 times in the New Testament.
The sacrificial death of Christ was done to be of perpetual and
permanent value and validity that it never needs to be repeated. The
Catholic Church treats the Lord’s Supper as a Mass which means
sacrifice. Every time the Catholic Church holds a mass is a reenactment of the crucifixion, Jesus Christ is sacrificed once more time and He suffers once more time. This kind of false teaching is clearly in violation of Biblical teaching.
B. Proclamation of the Lord’s death.
1Cr 11:20-34 , “Therefore when you come together in one place, it is not to eat the Lord’s Supper. For in eating, each one takes his own supper ahead of others; and one is hungry and another is drunk. What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the Church of God and shame those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you in this? I do not praise you. For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the same night in which He was betrayed took bread; and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said: Take, eat; this is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me. In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, saying: This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me. For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes. Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. For this reason many are weak and sick among you, and many sleep. For if we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world. Therefore, my brethren, when you come together to eat, wait for one another. But if anyone is hungry, let him eat at home, lest you come together for judgment. And the rest I will set in order when I come.”
Note: Proclaim in Greek is kataggellō which means to announce,
declare publicly, promulgate, make known, publish; – it occurs 17 times
in the New Testament. To do the Lord’s Supper is to proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes. The Lord’s death for sinners is the number one doctrine of Christianity, the number two is the resurrection of Jesus for our justification. The good news of Jesus Christ is that Jesus died for us, the Righteous for the unrighteous to pay a ransom for our sins. Jesus rose again from the dead by the power of God means He is able to save all who come to Him and save them to the end. Jesus has accomplished the salvation on the cross, all you need to do is to repent of your sins and believe in Jesus as your Lord and Savior. Whoever believes in Christ has eternal life.
C. In remembrance of Christ.
Luk 22:19-20,“And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying: This is My body which is given for you; do this in
remembrance of Me. Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying: This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.”
Note: Remembrance in Greek is anamnēsis which means a
remembering, reminder, affectionate recollection; – it occurs only 4 times in the New Testament.
1Cr 11:24-25 , “And when He had given thanks, He broke it and said:
This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me. In the
same way He took the cup also after supper, saying: This cup is the new covenant in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembranceof Me.”
Note: The new covenant was done in the blood of Christ. The Lord’s
Supper does not save souls; it requires remembrance of His death, and
demands gratitude from all believers. Therefore, it is wrong for those
denominations that do away with the Lord’s Supper.
D. Sharing of Christ.
1Cr 10:16 ,“Is not the cup of blessing which we bless a sharing in the
blood of Christ? Is not the bread which we break a sharing in the body
of Christ?”
Note: Sharing in Greek is koinōnia which means joint participation,
fellowship, association, communion; – it occurs 20 times in the New
Testament. Although we may not fully understand the depth and extent
of sharing, just as the new birth participates in the divine nature, so in
the Lord’s Supper we share the blessings in the blood of Christ and in
the body of Christ. We are also to share in the suffering of Christ. If we
share the suffering of Christ, we shall share His glory when He comes.
Spiritually speaking, to have the Lord’s Supper is to have a sharing in the Blood of Christ, and a sharing in the Body of Christ. Sharing means to have joint participation, fellowship, associations and intimate
communion with and in Christ.
1Cr 11:25 ,“In the same way He took the cup also after supper, saying:
This cup is the new covenant in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.”
Note: To observe the Lord’s Supper is not to practice any
liturgy, but to remember the Lord’s death and all He has done
for believers.
5. The erroneous doctrine of the
Roman Catholic Church.
The basic principle of interpreting the Word of God is taking it as its face value. What is a symbol should be treated as a
symbol. What is a parable should be treated as a parable.
What is a plain statement should be treated as a plain
treatment. What is a doctrine should be treated as a doctrine.
What the Bible emphasizes, we must not de-emphasize. Almost all errors and for that matter heresies originate from stressing what the Bible does not stress, and missing what the Bible stresses; and speculating on what the Bible is silent. What is the least important must not be treated as the most important. What is the most important must not be treated as the least important. Hear the Word, believe and accept it, remember itand do it; proclaim the Word and glorify it, devote completely to the Word; hold firmly the Word of life, and obey the Word.
The Pentecostal church commits two blunders: they overemphasize the ministry of healing and speaking in tongues. Our focus here is on the Lord’s Supper. The Roman Catholic Church commits many errors in interpreting the Word of God; we mention in passing the Virgin Birth,
Peter as the first pope, papacy, transubstantiation, and purgatory, etc.
Please read the article on Catholicism on this website. The Roman
Catholic Church calls the Lord’s Supper the Mass, which is the Sacrifice of Calvary . Jesus instituted the Lord’s Supper, not the Catholic Mass.
It is Catholic belief that in objective reality, not merely symbolically, the
wheaten bread and grape wine are converted into Christ’s body and
blood, a conversion referred to as transubstantiation , so that the whole Christ, body and blood, soul and divinity, is truly, really, and substantially contained in the sacrament of the Eucharist.
Transubstantiation is a false doctrine of Roman Catholicism not based
on the Word of God. According to the Catholic Church, the bread turns
literally into the body of Jesus and the wine into the blood of Jesus.
There is much internal evidence that contradicts this false teaching.
If the bread is really the body of Jesus, when He broke it in the first Lord’s Supper the body of Jesus must have been broken. No, the body of Jesus was not broken until He died on the cross. Now when we observe the Lord’s Supper, if the body of Jesus is broken, how do you account for Jesus who is sitting at the right hand of God in heaven. The absurdity is \clear and transparent. If every time we eat the Lord’s Supper down here on earth we eat the body of Jesus, the body of Jesus must have been eaten up. How ridiculous to believe that the bread turns into the body of Christ! The body of Christ is the Church. How can the church eat the church? What the Bible does not teach, Christians need not believe. As to the wine turning into the blood of Christ, it is even more absurd, because the Bible forbids eating of blood.
Act 15:20 ,“But that we write to them to abstain from things polluted by
idols, from sexual immorality, from things strangled, and from blood.”
Note: Food or fruit offered to idols are things polluted by idols, Christians must not eat them. This is common practice of idol worshipers. Anything offered to a false god is polluted.
Act 15:29 ,“That you abstain from things offered to idols, from blood,
from things strangled, and from sexual immorality. If you keep
yourselves from these, you will do well. Farewell.”
Note: Chinese Christians must be extra careful not to eat blood of any
kind, since the Chinese people practice eating blood of pig, chicken, etc. Some years ago I was hired by the Chinese Ministry of Education as a professor at a National university; I ate in a separate dinning hall and had a private cook. Once it incensed me greatly because the cook’s female assistant told me it was good for me to eat blood. I told them that Christians are prohibitive from eating blood of any kind. The Bible has unity in doctrines and messages. The Bible does not contradict itself.
Act 20:28 ,“Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the Church of God which He purchased with His own blood.”
Note: Jesus Christ purchased the Church of God with His own blood.
Rom 3:25 ,“Whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation in His blood
through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness, because in
the forbearance of God He passed over the sins previously committed.”
Note: Propitiation in Greek is hilastērionwhich means appeasing
or expiating; atonement; appeasement; the acting of
placating guilt; an expiatory sacrifice; mercyseat; – which
occurs 3 times in the New Testament. Primitive religions use sacrifices and rituals to appease their angry gods or spirits. The blood of Jesus was a propitiation for believers to obtain forgiveness of God through faith.
Rom 5:9 ,“Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we
shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him.”
Note: Believers have been justified by the blood of Jesus, and saved
from the wrath of God.
Eph 1:7 ,“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace.”
Note: Christians have redemption in Christ through His blood.
Eph 2:13 ,“But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have
been brought near by the blood of Christ.”
Note: The blood of Christ has brought believers near to God.
Col 1:20 ,“And through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having
made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, I say, whether things on earth or things in Heaven.”
Note: Through the blood of His cross, believers have made peace with
God.
Hbr 9:12 ,“And not through the blood of goats and calves, but through
His own blood, He entered the holy place once for all, having obtained
eternal redemption.”
Note: Through His blood Jesus entered the holy place once for all and
obtained eternal salvation for all believers.
Hbr 9:14 , “How much more will the blood of Christ, who through the
eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God, cleanse your
conscience from dead works to serve the living God?”
Note: The blood of Christ through the eternal Spirit cleanses the
conscience of believers from dead works to serve the living God.
Hbr 9:22 , “And according to the Law, one may almost say, all things are cleansed with blood, and without shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”
Note: Without shedding of the blood of Jesus there is no forgiveness.
Hbr 10:19 , “Therefore, brethren, since we have confidence to enter the
holy place by the blood of Jesus.”
Note: Christians have confidence to enter the holy place, that is to come to the throne of God, by the blood of Jesus.
Hbr 13:12 ,“Therefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify the people
through His own blood, suffered outside the gate.”
Note: Jesus sanctifies believers through His own blood positionally once and for all, and continuously conditionally as long as believers are on earth.
Hbr 13:20 ,“Now the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the
great Shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the eternal covenant,
even Jesus our Lord.”
Note: Not only the redemption of Jesus Christ by His blood is eternal, the covenant of God is also eternal. By His blood Jesus our Lord has made eternal covenant with God for those who come to Him.
1Pe 1:19 ,“But with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and
spotless, the blood of Christ.”
Note: The blood of Christ is precious because it is sinless and holy and
it has power to cleanse sinners.
1Jo 1:7 ,“But if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we
have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son
cleanses us from all sin.”
Note: The blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin.
Rev 1:5 ,“And from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him who loves us and released us from our sins by His blood.”
Note: Jesus Christ loves His followers and released believers from sins
by His blood.
Rev 7:14 , “I said to him: My lord, you know. And he said to me: These
are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.”
Note: The blood of the Lamb can wash our robes and make them white.
Rev 12:11 , “And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb
and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their
life even when faced with death.”
Note: Because of the blood of the Lamb, Christians can overcome the
devil.
Luk 22:19 ,“And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to
them, saying: This is My body which is given for you; do this in
remembrance of Me.”
Note: Break in Greek is klaōwhich means to split, smash; suggesting a
violent death; – it occurs 15 times in the New Testament. If the bread is
real body of Christ, how come when Christ broke it, the body of Christ
was not broken? Apparently, this is a figure of speech. The bread
symbolizes the body of Christ, not the real body of Christ. Whenever
down on earth Christians break bread to remember Christ, if it is the
real body of Christ, then Christ would have been broken in many times.
No. Christ’s spiritual and glorious body is sitting now at the right hand
of God.
6. How the Lord’s Supper should be
observed.
1Cr 11:20-34 ，“Therefore when you come together in one place, it is
not to eat the Lord’s Supper. For in eating, each one takes his own
supper ahead of others; and one is hungry and another is drunk. What!
Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the
Church of God and shame those who have nothing? What shall I say to
you? Shall I praise you in this? I do not praise you. For I received from
the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the
same night in which He was betrayed took bread; and when He had
given thanks, He broke it and said: Take, eat; this is My body which is
broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me. In the same manner He
also took the cup after supper, saying: This cup is the new covenant in
My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me. For
as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes. Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. For this reason many are weak and sick among you, and many sleep. For if we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world. Therefore, my brethren, when you come together to eat, wait for one another. But if anyone is hungry, let him eat at home, lest you come together for judgment. And the rest I will set in order when I come.”
Note: The Catholic liturgy of the Eucharist was not the way the early apostles and disciples observed the Lord’s Supper. To get drunk or become gluttonous are the unworthy manners. To treat the Lord’s Supper irreverently is an unworthy manner. I believe for some believers to leave the service before the Lord’s Supper begins is also an unworthy manner. Some church members act as if the Lord’s Supper is something to avoid. Some church members took the bread home to give to the sick believing it will cure disease is superstitious. The Lord can heal, the bread and the wine do not. You cannot participate in the Lord’s table and worship idols at the same time.
1Cr 11:27 ,“Therefore whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner, shall be guilty of the body and the blood of the Lord.”
Note: Guilty in Greek is enochoswhich means worthy of punishment,
liable; – it occurs only 10 times in the New Testament. Whoever eats the
bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner, shall be
guilty of the body and the blood of the Lord. Those who are guilty will be punished.
1Cr 11:30-31,“That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. But if we judged ourselves truly, we should not be judged.”
7. Christ’s table in His Kingdom.
Luk 22:16 ,“For I say to you: I shall never again eat it until it is fulfilled in the Kingdom of God.”
Luk 22:30 ,“That you may eat and drink at My table in My Kingdom, and
you will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.”
Note: Table in Greek is trapeza in Greek which means a table on which
food is placed, an eating place, a banquet, feast; – it occurs 15 times in
the New Testament. It is clear that the children of God or saints shall
eat and drink at Christ’s table in the Kingdom of Christ. What we shall
eat and rink are not specified. What shall we eat in the Kingdom of Christ are not made known; however, the Bible does mention the fruits of life( Rev 22:2 ), the water of life ( Rev 21:6 ), the hidden manna ( Rev 2:17 ), and possibly the bread of life ( Jhn 6:35 ).
One thing is sure: the spiritual and glorious body can take food and drink, but does not have the problem of elimination. There is no toilet in Heaven. There is no need of toilet in Heaven.
Rev 19:9 ,“Then he said to me, Write: Blessed are those who are invited
to the marriage supper of the Lamb! And he said to me: These are the
true sayings of God.”
Note: Blessed in Greek is makarios which means happy, blissful; – it
occurs 50 times in the New Testament. Invite in Greek is kaleō which
means to be called, to be named to participate or enjoy; – it occurs about 146 times in the New Testament. Those who are saved or the saints will be invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb. The sayings of God are always true.
Rev 19:17-18, “Then I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried
with a loud voice, saying to all the birds that fly in the midst of Heaven:
Come and gather together for the supper of the great God, so that you
may eat the flesh of kings and the flesh of commanders and the flesh of mighty men and the flesh of horses and of those who sit on them and the flesh of all men, both free men and slaves, and small and great.”
Note: There is another invitation, an invitation to the supper of the great God. The invitation is to all the birds that fly to eat the flesh of kings, generals, the rich and powerful, the wicked and unbelievers.
You have a choice: to repent and believe in Jesus Christ, you will be invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb. Those who do evil and reject Christ, they will become the supper of the great God for birds to eat their flesh.
Rev 19:20 , “Then the beast was captured, and with
him the false prophet who worked signs in his
presence, by which he deceived those who received
the mark of the beast and those who worshiped his
image. These two were cast alive into the Lake of fire burning with brimstone.”
The beast is the devil also called Satan. The devil and the false prophets will be cast in Hell, the Lake of Fire and Brimstone.
You are blessed to be invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb. Would you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior
This article is written to let you know the two Christian rites namely Baptism and the Lord’s Supper do not save people. Read more on the article of Baptism. The Lord’s Supper is a pure remembrance of the death and suffering of Jesus Christ until He returns to reign.
Many do not know what is the Lord’s Supper or what is Baptism. The Lord’s Supper is not what the Catholics call Mass. This article is written to let you know what the Lord’s Supper or Holy Communion is. Christianity or the Christian faith has only two rites or sacraments, namely baptism and the Lord’s Supper or the Holy Communion or the Eucharist. Please read my article on BAPTISM.The word ‘rite’ occurs in the Bible, only in the Old Testament.
Exd 12:25 -27, “When you enter the land which the LORD will give you, as He has promised, you shall observe this rite. And when your children say to you: What does this rite mean to you? You shall say: It is a Passover sacrifice to the LORD who passed over the houses of the sons of Israel in Egypt when He smote the Egyptians, but spared our homes. And the people bowed low and worshiped.”
Exd 13:5 ,“It shall be when the LORD brings you to the land of the Canaanite, the Hittite, the Amorite, the Hivite and the Jebusite, which He swore to your fathers to give you, a land flowing with milk and honey, that you shall observe this rite in this month.”
Num 9:14 ,“And if a stranger dwells among you, and would keep the Lord’s Passover, he must do so according to the rite of the Passover and according to its ceremony; you shall have one ordinance, both for the stranger and the native of the land.”
Note: Rite in Hebrew is ` abodahwhich means a sacred service, a sacred ceremony; – it occurs 141 times in the Old Testament. The word ‘rite’ does not occur in the New Testament. It is right to think of rite as ceremony. Baptism is a ceremony of identifying with Jesus Christ, declaring to the world that you are a Christian and belong to Christ. The Lord’s Supper is a ceremony of remembering the death of Jesus Christ who died bodily for our sins until He returns. These are simple truths taught in the Bible. There is no mystery about them.
Christianity does not have nor practice liturgy. The word ‘liturgy’ does not exist in the Bible. The more dead or lifeless a religion is the more liturgies it has. Christians observe baptism and the Lord’s Supper by the authority of Jesus Christ, not the pope, or apostle, or anyone else.
Christians do not believe in Eucharistic theology or any theology made by men, only in the Biblical theology as it is written in the Scriptures. The Lord’s Supper is also called the Last Supper because it took place right before Jesus was going to die on the cross for sinners. The Lord’s Supper is also called the Holy Communion, the communion of believers with the Lord through the Holy Spirit.
1Cr 10:16 ,“The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?”
2Cr 6:14 ,“Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?”
2Cr 13:14 ,“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen.”
Note: Communion in Greek is koinōnia which means fellowship, association, joint participation, the share which one has in anything, participation; – it occurs 20 times in the New Testament. Communion means the sharing in the benefits of Christ’s death and in the mystical body of Christ which is the Church.
The Lord’s Supper is also called the Eucharist or the Sacrament. The word ‘Eucharist’ does not exist in the Bible. The word ‘sacrament’ also does not exist in the Bible. Eucharist means sacrament of the Lord’s Supper. A sacrament is a sacred rite. Based on their simple definitions, Eucharist and sacrament do not have conflict with the Bible. The Catechism of the Catholic Church defines the sacraments as “efficacious signs of grace, instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church, by which divine life is dispensed to us. The visible rites by which the sacraments are celebrated signify and make present the graces proper to each sacrament. They bear fruit in those who receive them with the required dispositions.” The elaboration of the term does not have Biblical support, infused with tradition, confusion and teaching of men. The catechism included in the Anglican Book of Common Prayer defines a sacrament as “an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace given unto us, ordained by Christ himself, as a means whereby we receive the same, and a pledge to assure us thereof.” I cannot find anywhere in the Bible that defines or explains baptism or the Lord’s Supper as inward and spiritual graces. Perhaps the word ‘ordinance’ is more appropriate than the word ‘sacrament’. However, I cannot find anywhere in the Bible the distinction that ‘sacrament’ stresses mainly, but not solely, what God does; and ‘ordinance’ what the Christians do. True, baptism and the Lord’s Supper must be permanently observed by the Church until Jesus returns.
There are seven sacraments in the Catholic Church: Baptism, Confirmation or Chrismation, Eucharist, Penance, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony. Except baptism and the Lord’s Supper, the rest were invented by the Catholic Church. Anglican teaching is that there are two Sacraments ordained of Christ our Lord in the Gospel, that is to say, Baptism and the Supper of the Lord, and that those five called Sacraments, that is to say, Confirmation, Penance, Orders, Matrimony, and Extreme Unction, are not to be counted for Sacraments of the Gospel. Although I am not an Anglican, I hold the Anglican position to be Biblical. Furthermore, no where in the Bible teaches that all who receive the sacrament also receive forgiveness of sins and eternal salvation. It is equally wrong to add or delete the ordinances of the Lord. The meanings of the Lord’s Supper are clearly spelled out in the Bible; however, the Catholic Church invented the doctrine of transubstantiation, which is false and will be dealt with later.
1. Jesus Christ instituted the Lord’s Supper.
Luk 22:11 ，”And you shall say to the owner of the house, The Teacher
says to you: Where is the guest room in which I may eat the Passover
with My disciples?”
Note: It was very significant when the Jews ate the Passover, Jesus
instituted the Lord’s Supper; and the Jewish Passover became the
Christian Good Friday when the Lamb of God was slain. Do you have a
guest room for Jesus Christ? Do you have room for Jesus in your heart?
Mat 26:18 -30 ，“And He said: Go into the city to a certain man, and say
to him, The Teacher says: My time is at hand; I will keep the Passover at your house with My disciples. So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them; and they prepared the Passover. When evening had come, He sat down with the twelve. Now as they were eating, He said: Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray Me. And they were exceedingly sorrowful, and each of them began to say to Him: Lord, is it I? He answered and said: He who dipped his hand with Me in the dish will betray Me. The Son of Man indeed goes just as it is written of Him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been good for that man if he had not been born. Then Judas, who was betraying Him, answered and said: Rabbi, is it I? He said to him: You have said it. And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said: Take, eat; this is My body. Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying: Drink from it, all of you. For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. But I say to you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in My Father’s kingdom. And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.”
Note: A certain man; there is always a certain man designated to do a
certain thing. Do you know what Jesus designates you to do? Are you a certain man with a mission? The disciples did as Jesus had directed.
Christians must always do as Jesus had directed. What Jesus had
directed are written in the Bible and personally led by the Holy Spirit.
Direct in Greek is syntassō which means to put in order with or together, to arrange, prescribe, appoint; – it occurs only twice in the New Testament. God arranges things for His children. Watch out for
self-appointed so-called Christian leaders who do not have the Spirit of
Christ in them, they try to lead Christians astray. Do not follow them.
One of the disciples called Judas betrayed Jesus. Betray in Greek is
paradidōmi which means to give into the hands of another, deliver up
treacherously, by betrayal to cause one to be taken; – it occurs 121 times in the New Testament. Outsiders cannot betray Jesus; false prophets, false teachers and false brothers can betray Jesus. Those who preach false gospels betray Jesus. Those who lead believers astray betray Jesus. Those who merchandise the gospel for profit betray Jesus. Those who deny Jesus is the Son of God betray Jesus. Those who appoint gay preachers and support same-sex marriage betray the Lord. Woe to those who betray the Lord. It would have been good if a traitor had not been born. The bread symbolizes the body of Christ, and the wine symbolizes the blood of Christ. The blood of Christ was shed for the remission of sins. Remission in Greek is aphesis which means forgiveness or pardon, of sins letting them go as if they had never been committed, remission of the penalty, deliverance; – it occurs 17 times in the New Testament. This was the Last Supper because Jesus would not drink this fruit of the vine again until that day when Jesus drinks it new with believers in His Father’s kingdom. They sang a hymn. Sing hymn in Greek is hymneōwhich means to sing the praise of, sing hymns to; – it occurs only 4 times in the New Testament. Christians sing hymns to praise God and because they rejoice in the Lord. Christianity is the only religion (in addition to Judaism) that sings hymns and spiritual songs. All other religions moan and groan. Have you noticed that other religions also try to acquire some form of singing?
Luk 22:15 ,“And He said to them: I have earnestly desired to eat this
Passover with you before I suffer.”
Note: Jesus Christ had greatly desired to eat this Passover with disciples before He died. To be crucified was to under go an unspeakable suffering.
1Pe 2:21 ,“For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for
us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps:”
Note: Christ leaves us an example; to follow Jesus’ steps is to suffer for Him. Not to fancy yourself what would Jesus do in a certain situation, for Jesus does not vote, does not marry, does not need a job, does not buy a house, etc. Jesus is completely unlike any human being for He is the Son of God with the mission to save mankind. Jesus Christ came to the world to die for sinners. Do those false prophets and false teachers come to die? Do they come to suffer?
Jhn 21:20 ,“Then Peter, turning around, saw the disciple whom Jesus
loved following, who also had leaned on His breast at the supper, and
said: Lord, who is the one who betrays You?”
Note: In the last days there are many who betray the Lord by loving the
world, by backsliding, by denying the Lord, by preaching and following
false doctrines. Do not betray the Lord by your thought, word, or deed.
Jhn 13:1-5 ,“Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew
that His hour had come that He should depart from this world to the
Father, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to
the end. And supper being ended, the devil having already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray Him, Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was going to God, rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself. After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded.”
Jhn 13:21-34, “When Jesus had said these things, He was troubled in
spirit, and testified and said: Truly, truly, I say to you, one of you will
betray Me. Then the disciples looked at one another, perplexed about
whom He spoke. Now there was leaning on Jesus’ bosom one of His
disciples, whom Jesus loved. Simon Peter therefore motioned to him to ask who it was of whom He spoke. Then, leaning back on Jesus’ breast, he said to Him： Lord, who is it? Jesus answered: It is he to whom I shall give a piece of bread when I have dipped it. And having dipped the bread, He gave it to Judas Iscariot, [the son] of Simon. Now after the piece of bread, Satan entered him. Then Jesus said to him: What you do, do quickly. But no one at the table knew for what reason He said this to him. For some thought, because Judas had the money box, that Jesus had said to him: Buy those things we need for the feast, or that he should give something to the poor. Having received the piece of bread, he then went out immediately. And it was night. So, when he had gone out, Jesus said: Now the Son of Man is glorified, and God is glorified in Him. If God is glorified in Him, God will also glorify Him in Himself, and glorify Him immediately. Little children, I shall be with you a little while longer. You will seek Me; and as I said to the Jews: Where I am going, you cannot come, so now I say to you. A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.”
Jhn 13:4-5,“Rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself. After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded.”
Note: In addition to instituting the Lord’s Supper, Jesus also set an
example of humility by washing the disciples’ feet. Almost all masters or founders of religions wanted their followers to wash their feet.
1Cr 10:16 -23 ，“The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the
communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not
the communion of the body of Christ? For we, though many, are one
bread and one body; for we all partake of that one bread. Observe Israel after the flesh: Are not those who eat of the sacrifices partakers of the altar? What am I saying then? That an idol is anything, or what is offered to idols is anything? Rather, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice they sacrifice to demons and not to God, and I do not want you to have fellowship with demons. You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons; you cannot partake of the Lord’s table and of the table of demons. Or do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? Are we stronger than He? All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify.”
Note: Communion in Greek is koinōniawhich means sharing;
participation; an embodiment and proof of fellowship;
partnership; social intercourse; a Christian sacrament in which consecrated bread and wine are consumed as memorials of Christ’s death or as symbols for the realization of a spiritual union between Christ and communicant or as the body and blood of Christ (Merriam-Webster Dictionary); – which occurs 19 times in the New Testament.
It is wrong for some Taiwanese politicians who claim to be
Christians who worship idols and participate in Buddhist
temple services. No Christian can have fellowship or
communion with demons. No Christian can partake of the
Lord ’s Table and the table of demons. Idolatry provokes the
Lord to anger and wrath.
2. The symbols of the Lord’s Supper.
There are two symbols, namely, the bread and the wine. Bread and wine are symbols of the body of Christ and His blood, not the real things.
Luk 22:14-20,“When the hour had come, He sat down, and the twelve
apostles with Him. Then He said to them: With fervent desire I have
desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; for I say to you, I
will no longer eat of it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God. Then He
took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, take this and divide it among
yourselves; for I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until
the kingdom of God comes. And He took bread, gave thanks and broke
it, and gave it to them, saying: This is My body which is given for you;
do this in remembrance of Me. Likewise He also took the cup after
supper, saying: This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.”
Note: The bread symbolizes the body of Jesus which was given for believers. Jesus died a bodily death on the cross with all the pain and anguish, and rose again from the dead with glorious and spiritual body. The cup symbolizes the blood of Christ which was shed for the sins of believers. Since they are symbols, they are not the real physical things.
Jhn 6:35 ,“And Jesus said to them: I am the Bread of Life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst.”
Jhn 6:41 ,“The Jews then complained about Him, because He said: I am the Bread which came down from Heaven.”
Note: These Scriptures say that Jesus is the Bread of Life. Yes, it is a
figure of speech. True, Jesus is more important than bread, because the bread we eat we will be hungry again and die. To have Jesus the bread of life, we will never hunger and never thirst and never die. So the bread of life is more real than anything because Jesus is the Life.
Jhn 8:12 ,“Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying: I am the Light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the Light of life.”
Note: Jesus is not the sunlight, candlelight, or electric light. Jesus is the Light of the world. This is real, more real than the sunlight. Because Jesus is the true Light, the eternal Light. He who follows Christ will not walk in darkness, but have the Light of life. Only with Jesus as your Light, you can see the truth, you can see God.
Jhn 10:9 ,“I AM the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and
will go in and out and find pasture.”
Note: Jesus is not the door made of wood or metal. Jesus is the Door,
the Door of salvation. If anyone enters by Jesus, he will be saved, and
will go in and out and find pasture like a sheep.
Jhn 10:11 ,“I AM the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd gives His life
for the sheep.”
Note: Jesus is the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd gives His life for the sheep. Jesus died for believers. The followers of Christ are His sheep.
Jhn 10:14 ,“I AM the Good Shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am
known by My own.”
Note: Jesus knows His sheep, and His sheep know Him. If you do not
know Christ because you are not His sheep.
Jhn 10:36 , “Do you say of Him whom the Father sanctified and sent into the world: You are blaspheming, because I said: I am the Son of God?”
Note: Jesus is the Son of God, literally and spiritually and eternally true
and true.
Jhn 11:25 ,“Jesus said to her: I am the Resurrection and the Life. He
who believes in Me, though he may die, yet he shall live.”
Note: Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life. It is true. He who believes
in Christ, though he may die, yet he shall live.
Jhn 14:6 ,“Jesus said to him: I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No
one comes to the Father except through Me.”
Note: Jesus is the Way, the way to God, the way to salvation, the way to Heaven. It is absolutely true. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. To know Jesus is the Way is to know the Truth. To know the Truth is to have life. No one comes to the Father except through Jesus.
Jhn 15:5 ,“I AM the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me,
and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.”
Note: Jesus is the vine, the true Vine; Christians are the branches. He
who abides in Christ, and Christ in him, bears much fruit; for without
Christ believers can do nothing. Just as branches can do nothing
without the vine, so Christians can do nothing without Christ.
The symbols of the Lord’s Supper are symbols, not realities. But Jesus
Christ is more real than reality. What you can see is temporary, what
you cannot see is eternal. Spiritual truth is more than scientific truth
because it is eternal truth. The Word of Christ is the truth.
3. The meanings of the Lord’s Supper.
Luk 22:19 , “And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying: This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.”
Note: Remembrance in Greek is anamnēsiswhich means a
remembering; recollection; bearing in mind; ability to
remember; commemoration; which occurs 4 times in the
New Testament. It can be said to have the Lord’s Supper is a commemoration of the Lord’s death and sufferings on the
cross for our behalf.
Luk 22:20 ,“Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying: This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.”
1Cr 11:24-25 ,“And when He had given thanks, He broke it and said:
This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me. In the
same way He took the cup also after supper, saying: This cup is the new covenant in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembranceof Me.”
Note: The body of Christ was given to believers because Jesus Christ
sacrificed Himself on the cross to die for sinners. His body bore our sins and sorrows and endured pain. The meaning of the Lord’s Supper is not a reenactment of the sacrifice, but symbolizes the suffering and death of Jesus Christ for Christians. The sacrifice of Jesus was once and for all. It was finished, but Christians must do the Lord’s Supper in remembrance of Christ until He returns to reign with the saints.
Catholics do Mass as an reenactment of the Lord’s sacrifice on the cross for our sins is un-scriptural. Jesus only died once for all, and it was finished.
Isa 53:5 ,“But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was
crushed for our iniquities; the chastening for our well-being fell upon
Him, And by His scourging we are healed.”
Note: Pierce in Hebrew is chalal which means to wound fatally, bore
through; – it occurs about 141 times in the Old Testament. Transgression in Hebrew is pesha` which means rebellion against God, sin, trespass; – it occurs about 93 times in the Old Testament. Crush in Hebrew is daka’which means to be broken, to be bruised, smitten with stripes; – it occurs 18 times in the Old Testament. Iniquity in Hebrew is `avonwhich means perversity, depravity, guilt or punishment of iniquity; – it occurs about 230 times in the Old Testament. Scourging in Hebrew is muwcarwhich means chastening, discipline, correction; – it occurs 50 times in the Old Testament.
Heal in Hebrew is rapha’ which means to make healthful, sew together,
restore to health; – it occurs 67 times in the Old Testament. The Book of
Isaiah was the book of the Gospel in the Old Testament. The Old
Testament prophet Isaiah preached the good news of the Messiah. In
summary, the meaning of the Lord’s Supper is to remember the
sufferings and death of Jesus Christ for sinners.
4. The purpose of the Lord’s Supper.
A. Bringing us to God.
1Pe 3:18 ,“For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust,
that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made
alive by the Spirit.”
Note: Suffer in Greek is paschō which means to be afflicted, to be in
bad plight, undergo evils; – it occurs 42 times in the New Testament. The suffering of Christ was not martyrized or victimized, it was substitutionary or vicarious, the Just for the unjust. Bring in Greek is prosago which means to open a way of access for one to God, lead,
draw near to, approach; – it occurs only 4 times in the New Testament.
Jesus Christ suffered once for sins. Once in Greek is hapax which
means once for all, one time; – it occurs 15 times in the New Testament.
The sacrificial death of Christ was done to be of perpetual and
permanent value and validity that it never needs to be repeated. The
Catholic Church treats the Lord’s Supper as a Mass which means
sacrifice. Every time the Catholic Church holds a mass is a reenactment of the crucifixion, Jesus Christ is sacrificed once more time and He suffers once more time. This kind of false teaching is clearly in violation of Biblical teaching.
B. Proclamation of the Lord’s death.
1Cr 11:20-34 , “Therefore when you come together in one place, it is not to eat the Lord’s Supper. For in eating, each one takes his own supper ahead of others; and one is hungry and another is drunk. What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the Church of God and shame those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you in this? I do not praise you. For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the same night in which He was betrayed took bread; and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said: Take, eat; this is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me. In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, saying: This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me. For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes. Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. For this reason many are weak and sick among you, and many sleep. For if we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world. Therefore, my brethren, when you come together to eat, wait for one another. But if anyone is hungry, let him eat at home, lest you come together for judgment. And the rest I will set in order when I come.”
Note: Proclaim in Greek is kataggellō which means to announce,
declare publicly, promulgate, make known, publish; – it occurs 17 times
in the New Testament. To do the Lord’s Supper is to proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes. The Lord’s death for sinners is the number one doctrine of Christianity, the number two is the resurrection of Jesus for our justification. The good news of Jesus Christ is that Jesus died for us, the Righteous for the unrighteous to pay a ransom for our sins. Jesus rose again from the dead by the power of God means He is able to save all who come to Him and save them to the end. Jesus has accomplished the salvation on the cross, all you need to do is to repent of your sins and believe in Jesus as your Lord and Savior. Whoever believes in Christ has eternal life.
C. In remembrance of Christ.
Luk 22:19-20,“And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying: This is My body which is given for you; do this in
remembrance of Me. Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying: This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.”
Note: Remembrance in Greek is anamnēsis which means a
remembering, reminder, affectionate recollection; – it occurs only 4 times in the New Testament.
1Cr 11:24-25 , “And when He had given thanks, He broke it and said:
This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me. In the
same way He took the cup also after supper, saying: This cup is the new covenant in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembranceof Me.”
Note: The new covenant was done in the blood of Christ. The Lord’s
Supper does not save souls; it requires remembrance of His death, and
demands gratitude from all believers. Therefore, it is wrong for those
denominations that do away with the Lord’s Supper.
D. Sharing of Christ.
1Cr 10:16 ,“Is not the cup of blessing which we bless a sharing in the
blood of Christ? Is not the bread which we break a sharing in the body
of Christ?”
Note: Sharing in Greek is koinōnia which means joint participation,
fellowship, association, communion; – it occurs 20 times in the New
Testament. Although we may not fully understand the depth and extent
of sharing, just as the new birth participates in the divine nature, so in
the Lord’s Supper we share the blessings in the blood of Christ and in
the body of Christ. We are also to share in the suffering of Christ. If we
share the suffering of Christ, we shall share His glory when He comes.
Spiritually speaking, to have the Lord’s Supper is to have a sharing in the Blood of Christ, and a sharing in the Body of Christ. Sharing means to have joint participation, fellowship, associations and intimate
communion with and in Christ.
1Cr 11:25 ,“In the same way He took the cup also after supper, saying:
This cup is the new covenant in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.”
Note: To observe the Lord’s Supper is not to practice any
liturgy, but to remember the Lord’s death and all He has done
for believers.
5. The erroneous doctrine of the
Roman Catholic Church.
The basic principle of interpreting the Word of God is taking it as its face value. What is a symbol should be treated as a
symbol. What is a parable should be treated as a parable.
What is a plain statement should be treated as a plain
treatment. What is a doctrine should be treated as a doctrine.
What the Bible emphasizes, we must not de-emphasize. Almost all errors and for that matter heresies originate from stressing what the Bible does not stress, and missing what the Bible stresses; and speculating on what the Bible is silent. What is the least important must not be treated as the most important. What is the most important must not be treated as the least important. Hear the Word, believe and accept it, remember itand do it; proclaim the Word and glorify it, devote completely to the Word; hold firmly the Word of life, and obey the Word.
The Pentecostal church commits two blunders: they overemphasize the ministry of healing and speaking in tongues. Our focus here is on the Lord’s Supper. The Roman Catholic Church commits many errors in interpreting the Word of God; we mention in passing the Virgin Birth,
Peter as the first pope, papacy, transubstantiation, and purgatory, etc.
Please read the article on Catholicism on this website. The Roman
Catholic Church calls the Lord’s Supper the Mass, which is the Sacrifice of Calvary . Jesus instituted the Lord’s Supper, not the Catholic Mass.
It is Catholic belief that in objective reality, not merely symbolically, the
wheaten bread and grape wine are converted into Christ’s body and
blood, a conversion referred to as transubstantiation , so that the whole Christ, body and blood, soul and divinity, is truly, really, and substantially contained in the sacrament of the Eucharist.
Transubstantiation is a false doctrine of Roman Catholicism not based
on the Word of God. According to the Catholic Church, the bread turns
literally into the body of Jesus and the wine into the blood of Jesus.
There is much internal evidence that contradicts this false teaching.
If the bread is really the body of Jesus, when He broke it in the first Lord’s Supper the body of Jesus must have been broken. No, the body of Jesus was not broken until He died on the cross. Now when we observe the Lord’s Supper, if the body of Jesus is broken, how do you account for Jesus who is sitting at the right hand of God in heaven. The absurdity is \clear and transparent. If every time we eat the Lord’s Supper down here on earth we eat the body of Jesus, the body of Jesus must have been eaten up. How ridiculous to believe that the bread turns into the body of Christ! The body of Christ is the Church. How can the church eat the church? What the Bible does not teach, Christians need not believe. As to the wine turning into the blood of Christ, it is even more absurd, because the Bible forbids eating of blood.
Act 15:20 ,“But that we write to them to abstain from things polluted by
idols, from sexual immorality, from things strangled, and from blood.”
Note: Food or fruit offered to idols are things polluted by idols, Christians must not eat them. This is common practice of idol worshipers. Anything offered to a false god is polluted.
Act 15:29 ,“That you abstain from things offered to idols, from blood,
from things strangled, and from sexual immorality. If you keep
yourselves from these, you will do well. Farewell.”
Note: Chinese Christians must be extra careful not to eat blood of any
kind, since the Chinese people practice eating blood of pig, chicken, etc. Some years ago I was hired by the Chinese Ministry of Education as a professor at a National university; I ate in a separate dinning hall and had a private cook. Once it incensed me greatly because the cook’s female assistant told me it was good for me to eat blood. I told them that Christians are prohibitive from eating blood of any kind. The Bible has unity in doctrines and messages. The Bible does not contradict itself.
Act 20:28 ,“Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the Church of God which He purchased with His own blood.”
Note: Jesus Christ purchased the Church of God with His own blood.
Rom 3:25 ,“Whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation in His blood
through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness, because in
the forbearance of God He passed over the sins previously committed.”
Note: Propitiation in Greek is hilastērionwhich means appeasing
or expiating; atonement; appeasement; the acting of
placating guilt; an expiatory sacrifice; mercyseat; – which
occurs 3 times in the New Testament. Primitive religions use sacrifices and rituals to appease their angry gods or spirits. The blood of Jesus was a propitiation for believers to obtain forgiveness of God through faith.
Rom 5:9 ,“Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we
shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him.”
Note: Believers have been justified by the blood of Jesus, and saved
from the wrath of God.
Eph 1:7 ,“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace.”
Note: Christians have redemption in Christ through His blood.
Eph 2:13 ,“But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have
been brought near by the blood of Christ.”
Note: The blood of Christ has brought believers near to God.
Col 1:20 ,“And through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having
made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, I say, whether things on earth or things in Heaven.”
Note: Through the blood of His cross, believers have made peace with
God.
Hbr 9:12 ,“And not through the blood of goats and calves, but through
His own blood, He entered the holy place once for all, having obtained
eternal redemption.”
Note: Through His blood Jesus entered the holy place once for all and
obtained eternal salvation for all believers.
Hbr 9:14 , “How much more will the blood of Christ, who through the
eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God, cleanse your
conscience from dead works to serve the living God?”
Note: The blood of Christ through the eternal Spirit cleanses the
conscience of believers from dead works to serve the living God.
Hbr 9:22 , “And according to the Law, one may almost say, all things are cleansed with blood, and without shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”
Note: Without shedding of the blood of Jesus there is no forgiveness.
Hbr 10:19 , “Therefore, brethren, since we have confidence to enter the
holy place by the blood of Jesus.”
Note: Christians have confidence to enter the holy place, that is to come to the throne of God, by the blood of Jesus.
Hbr 13:12 ,“Therefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify the people
through His own blood, suffered outside the gate.”
Note: Jesus sanctifies believers through His own blood positionally once and for all, and continuously conditionally as long as believers are on earth.
Hbr 13:20 ,“Now the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the
great Shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the eternal covenant,
even Jesus our Lord.”
Note: Not only the redemption of Jesus Christ by His blood is eternal, the covenant of God is also eternal. By His blood Jesus our Lord has made eternal covenant with God for those who come to Him.
1Pe 1:19 ,“But with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and
spotless, the blood of Christ.”
Note: The blood of Christ is precious because it is sinless and holy and
it has power to cleanse sinners.
1Jo 1:7 ,“But if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we
have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son
cleanses us from all sin.”
Note: The blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin.
Rev 1:5 ,“And from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him who loves us and released us from our sins by His blood.”
Note: Jesus Christ loves His followers and released believers from sins
by His blood.
Rev 7:14 , “I said to him: My lord, you know. And he said to me: These
are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.”
Note: The blood of the Lamb can wash our robes and make them white.
Rev 12:11 , “And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb
and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their
life even when faced with death.”
Note: Because of the blood of the Lamb, Christians can overcome the
devil.
Luk 22:19 ,“And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to
them, saying: This is My body which is given for you; do this in
remembrance of Me.”
Note: Break in Greek is klaōwhich means to split, smash; suggesting a
violent death; – it occurs 15 times in the New Testament. If the bread is
real body of Christ, how come when Christ broke it, the body of Christ
was not broken? Apparently, this is a figure of speech. The bread
symbolizes the body of Christ, not the real body of Christ. Whenever
down on earth Christians break bread to remember Christ, if it is the
real body of Christ, then Christ would have been broken in many times.
No. Christ’s spiritual and glorious body is sitting now at the right hand
of God.
6. How the Lord’s Supper should be
observed.
1Cr 11:20-34 ，“Therefore when you come together in one place, it is
not to eat the Lord’s Supper. For in eating, each one takes his own
supper ahead of others; and one is hungry and another is drunk. What!
Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the
Church of God and shame those who have nothing? What shall I say to
you? Shall I praise you in this? I do not praise you. For I received from
the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the
same night in which He was betrayed took bread; and when He had
given thanks, He broke it and said: Take, eat; this is My body which is
broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me. In the same manner He
also took the cup after supper, saying: This cup is the new covenant in
My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me. For
as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes. Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. For this reason many are weak and sick among you, and many sleep. For if we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world. Therefore, my brethren, when you come together to eat, wait for one another. But if anyone is hungry, let him eat at home, lest you come together for judgment. And the rest I will set in order when I come.”
Note: The Catholic liturgy of the Eucharist was not the way the early apostles and disciples observed the Lord’s Supper. To get drunk or become gluttonous are the unworthy manners. To treat the Lord’s Supper irreverently is an unworthy manner. I believe for some believers to leave the service before the Lord’s Supper begins is also an unworthy manner. Some church members act as if the Lord’s Supper is something to avoid. Some church members took the bread home to give to the sick believing it will cure disease is superstitious. The Lord can heal, the bread and the wine do not. You cannot participate in the Lord’s table and worship idols at the same time.
1Cr 11:27 ,“Therefore whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner, shall be guilty of the body and the blood of the Lord.”
Note: Guilty in Greek is enochoswhich means worthy of punishment,
liable; – it occurs only 10 times in the New Testament. Whoever eats the
bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner, shall be
guilty of the body and the blood of the Lord. Those who are guilty will be punished.
1Cr 11:30-31,“That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. But if we judged ourselves truly, we should not be judged.”
7. Christ’s table in His Kingdom.
Luk 22:16 ,“For I say to you: I shall never again eat it until it is fulfilled in the Kingdom of God.”
Luk 22:30 ,“That you may eat and drink at My table in My Kingdom, and
you will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.”
Note: Table in Greek is trapeza in Greek which means a table on which
food is placed, an eating place, a banquet, feast; – it occurs 15 times in
the New Testament. It is clear that the children of God or saints shall
eat and drink at Christ’s table in the Kingdom of Christ. What we shall
eat and rink are not specified. What shall we eat in the Kingdom of Christ are not made known; however, the Bible does mention the fruits of life( Rev 22:2 ), the water of life ( Rev 21:6 ), the hidden manna ( Rev 2:17 ), and possibly the bread of life ( Jhn 6:35 ).
One thing is sure: the spiritual and glorious body can take food and drink, but does not have the problem of elimination. There is no toilet in Heaven. There is no need of toilet in Heaven.
Rev 19:9 ,“Then he said to me, Write: Blessed are those who are invited
to the marriage supper of the Lamb! And he said to me: These are the
true sayings of God.”
Note: Blessed in Greek is makarios which means happy, blissful; – it
occurs 50 times in the New Testament. Invite in Greek is kaleō which
means to be called, to be named to participate or enjoy; – it occurs about 146 times in the New Testament. Those who are saved or the saints will be invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb. The sayings of God are always true.
Rev 19:17-18, “Then I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried
with a loud voice, saying to all the birds that fly in the midst of Heaven:
Come and gather together for the supper of the great God, so that you
may eat the flesh of kings and the flesh of commanders and the flesh of mighty men and the flesh of horses and of those who sit on them and the flesh of all men, both free men and slaves, and small and great.”
Note: There is another invitation, an invitation to the supper of the great God. The invitation is to all the birds that fly to eat the flesh of kings, generals, the rich and powerful, the wicked and unbelievers.
You have a choice: to repent and believe in Jesus Christ, you will be invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb. Those who do evil and reject Christ, they will become the supper of the great God for birds to eat their flesh.
Rev 19:20 , “Then the beast was captured, and with
him the false prophet who worked signs in his
presence, by which he deceived those who received
the mark of the beast and those who worshiped his
image. These two were cast alive into the Lake of fire burning with brimstone.”
The beast is the devil also called Satan. The devil and the false prophets will be cast in Hell, the Lake of Fire and Brimstone.
You are blessed to be invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb. Would you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior
Willie Wong Thought is the system thinking and worldview of Willie Wong. Willie Wong Thought is deeply rooted solely in the Biblical view, and it is impossible to contradict the Word of God. Willie Wong Thought
Who is Willie Wong?
I am a Christian by grace, a Chinese by race, and an American by nationality. In Politics I am Nixonian, in Management I am Koontzian, in English I am Ruskinian, in Philosophy I am Willie Wong Thought. I am neither a capitalist nor a communist. I am a Christian who stands for truth and justice and with the poor and oppressed peoples in the world. Above all, I am a disciple and servant of Jesus Christ. Willie Wong Thought is the system of thinking and world-view of Willie Wong.
Mission:
To tell the truth and speak wisdom, disseminate knowledge and promote peace and justice to all the peoples in the world, and preach the glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ absolutely free. We are not a business. We are not a company. We do not buy or sell. We do not make money. We do not seek customers or profits. We only want global readers who seek the truth. We want the whole world to know the truth.
1. Jesus Christ.
Jesus Christ is my God and Savior, Titus 2:13. This knowledge is more certain and important than anything else I know. There is no other. Jesus is the Incomparable, in power and wisdom, in justice and grace, in righteousness and truth; the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace, the King of kings and the Lord of lords. For you and me, the Savior of the world.
2. The purpose of education.
The purpose of education is not only to learn what you do not know, but to be what you can be. For examples, to learn painting is one thing, to be a painter is another. To learn chemistry is one thing, to be a chemist is another. To learn writing is one thing, to be a writer is quite another. From learning writing to being a writer is a long way. There are two types of learning: general and specialized. Learning is an endless process of helping you to become the best you can be. An educated person can never be an uncivilized person.
3. What you are.
What you are is more important than what you have. What you have can be taken away, what you are no one can take away. It is better to be a good person and poor than to be a crooked rich man. For the world, people choose to have than to be.
4. Knowledge.
Knowledge is power, power not to do harm, but to do good. The most important knowledge is the knowledge of God. There are two types of knowledge: divine and human. Divine knowledge is by revelation; it is absolute, complete, perfect, supreme, infallible, ultimate and eternal. Human knowledge must be verified; because it is progressive, tentative and never absolute or ultimate. The best organized of human knowledge is science at a place in time. Human knowledge is fallible.
5. Two types of culture.
There are two types of culture: inferior and superior. Inferior cultures are characterized by violence, greed, deceit, corruption, incivility, laziness, uncleanliness, waste, dissipation, immorality, and short view of life. Superior cultures are characterized by wisdom, compassion, honesty, integrity, industry, civility, cleanliness, discipline, thrift, virtue, and long view of life. Inferior cultures produce inferior peoples; inferior peoples make an inferior society. Superior cultures produce superior peoples and superior peoples build a superior society.
Do you want to know really the culture and values of a nation or people? There is a window you can see through. It is the TV, what you see is what you get.
6. The prophecy of Jesus Christ.
The prophecy of Jesus Christ proclaimed about 2,000 years ago had been and is being fulfilled right before our eyes. “For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in many places.” ( Matthew 24:7 ) Ever since from the beginning the history of the world has been the history of wars. Examples of pestilences are mad cow disease, Ebola, AIDS, foot and mouth disease, SARS, etc. And now COVID-19 appears the most devastating and and deadly to the whole world in the spring of 2020 to 2021. No one know when will it end.
The most absurd remedy is to inject detergent into your blood to cleanse and cure COVID-19!!!!!!?????
There are many pundits and politicians who lie and spread falsehoods and fake news unprecedented in the history of mankind. The rumors and lies are of most dangerous and destructive nature. The pandemic may be the greatest calamity since World War II. No one knows exactly how long COVID-19 will last, the total global death toll and the negative impact on the world. A major earthquake can make everyone (even the rich and powerful) feel very small and scared. They are wise who give up things that are being shaken for things that cannot be shaken. Things that are being shaken will pass away, and things that cannot be shaken will last for ever. I believe CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC is a fulfilled prophesy of Jesus Christ, and a warning of the coming judgement of God.
7. Four types of book.
There are four types of book: those that inform you are useful, those that indulge you are bad, those that instruct you are good, and those that inspire you are great. Useful books are as plentiful as bad books. Good books are few. Great books are rare. The Holy Bible is the greatest, the Book of all books. Find it out for yourself.
8. Christian TV Programs.
If Paul, Peter and John were alive in America today, watching the so-called “Christian programs” on TV would shock them; because most of them are not the gospel of Jesus Christ they proclaimed. Many of so-called “Christian websites” are also diabolical and satanic because they deny Jesus Christ the Son of God. They are false gospels: capitalistic gospel, social gospel, political gospel, racial gospel, feminist gospel, possibility gospel, positive thinking gospel, prosperity gospel, modernist gospel, faith healing gospel, psychological gospel, success gospel, etc. How do you know America is practicing a false version of Christianity? Many church members and preachers love money and the world; commit fornication, adultery, and sexual immorality; practice racial discrimination and injustice, etc. Some ministers of Satan merchandise the gospel, use the pulpit as a political platform, blackmail corporations to donate money, spread lies and falsehood, use churches as business centers, use public funds to enrich themselves, their families and friends, support a luxurious life style and mistresses, etc. Jesus Christ says, “You will know them by their fruits. ” ( Matthew 7:16) There are now so many deceivers and impostors who claim and pretend to be Christians and preachers who are destructive in spreading fake news and false doctrines.
9. Unbelieving scientists and journalists.
Unbelieving scientists and journalists insidiously distorted Christianity and dishonored the Lord Jesus Christ and discredited the Word of God. How does Jesus Christ look like? Not what you imagine. The Bible says, “His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow; and His eyes were like a flame of fire. His feet were like fine bronze glowing in a furnace; and His voice was like the sound of many waters. He had in His right hand seven stars, out of His mouth came a sharp two-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining in its strength.” ( Revelation 1:14-16 )
10. Rules to live by: (A). Behave responsibly (B). Eat moderately (C). Speak truthfully (D). Think deeply (E). Live honorably (F). Act decisively (G). Deal squarely To help remembering, the first letters of seven items form an acronym BESTLAD .
11. Deng Xiaoping.
You can study world history whether East or West, North or South, ancient or modern; never in the history of mankind had anyone accomplished so much for so many people in so short a period of time (40 years) as Deng Xiaoping had done for the Chinese. Western scholars, politicians and journalists have a predilection and tendency for magnifying the shortcomings of China and minimizing its achievements. For hundreds of years, Western powers have been hostile and adversarial to China and Chinese people even to this day. First Western powers oppressed and despised a weak and backward China. Now they are afraid and jealous of China’s spectacular successes in all fields and afraid of a strong China. “Containment of China” has been the persistent policy and practice of Western hegemonic powers since 1949. Without cause they treat China as an enemy and threat to their world domination and dictatorship. The sole super power and its allies are doing everything possible to curb and check the peaceful rise of China. In fact they want to wipe out China and Russia and a nuclear war is looming large on the horizon that may destroy the whole world.
12. Five Best Things.
There are five best things: truth, virtue (or justice), beauty, love and wisdom. Many things can blind and enslave individuals and nations, such as false religion, dangerous ideology, superstition, laziness, violence, immorality, inferior culture, racism, prejudice, love of money and power, greed, irrational patriotism, vested interest, a passion to dominate the world, etc. Jesus Christ says, “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free. ” The confusion is the fact they claim and pretend to be Christians; children of the devil pretend to be on the side of God. The sad truth is, many believe in a lie. Tragic flaw is the Western leaders and politicians who deliberately and shamelessly manufacture lies and falsehoods about China and Russia because the West wants to continue to dictate and dominate the world.
13. Christianity and capitalism.
Christianity and capitalism do not go together. For Christianity is Christ-centered and heavenly. Jesus Christ declares, “My Kingdom is not of this world.” (John 18:36 ) Apostle John proclaimed, “Do not love the world or things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world – the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life – is not of the Father, but of the world.” (1 John 2:15-16 ) Capitalism is driven by greed and worldliness. Capitalism puts a premium on money (the lust of the eyes), sex (the lust of the flesh), and power (the pride of life). The Bible says, “For the love of money is the root of all evil.” (1 Timothy 6:10 ) Corruption, injustice, violence, immorality, falsehood, oppression, wars and all kinds of evil in the world are brought about by the lust for money, sex, and power. Money, sex, and power are not compatible with faith, hope, and love. On the authority of Jesus Christ, “You cannot serve God and mammon.” (Matthew 6:24 ) Capitalism enriches the one percent of the population at the expense of the 99 percent. Western democracy is the practice of one percent who rules over the 99 percent. American preachers did not and do not preach against the evils of capitalism. Capitalism is not compatible with Christianity.
14. Idea.
The important thing about idea is not whether it is old or new, but whether it is good or bad, right or wrong. A bad new idea is no better than a bad old idea, a good old idea is better than a new bad idea, and a right old idea is better than a new wrong idea.
15. Criminal justice system.
Whether a criminal justice system is just and effective or not can be determined by the following questions: (A). Does it acquit the guilty and convict the innocent? (B). Does it allow defense based on lies without evidence? (C). Does the process delay and frustrate the administration of justice? (D). Does it enrich the defense lawyers, judges, prosecution, the court, law enforcement, legal professionals and bankrupt the innocent? (E). Does money, race or class affect the outcome of any court case? Inasmuch as the answers are affirmative, the legal system is flawed. The criminal justice system which is devoid of righteousness and justice is practicing injustice.
19. Monopoly.
Monopoly is inherently corrupt and consequently evil. Government is the largest and most powerful monopoly with the greatest potential for corruption and abuse of power. Corruption involves abuse, misuse, and misappropriation of public funds to enrich oneself, family, friends and social interest groups. Lawmakers may pass a law but no law can legitimize corruption. What is legal may be immoral. Transparency is how government officials spend taxpayers’ money and for what purpose and must be published for public scrutiny. The deterrence for corruption is government is double penalty. A government official who commits a crime must suffer the double penalty a civilian gets. Public funds shall not be used to defend officials who committed crimes. Anyone who defrauds or misappropriates $1 million or more accumulatively shall be executed and all his assets seized. The second biggest monopoly is cartel or giant corporation that engages in predatory business practices that stifle competition. All monopolies must be smashed or justice cannot exist. American healthcare industry is the largest monopoly, full of fraudulent, predatory and excessive charges to bankrupt the helpless patients. When a government is corrupt, it is the worst.
16. Two kinds of problem.
There are two kinds of problem in the world: caused by nature and created by men. Problems caused by nature such as earthquake, hurricane, drought, etc. which men can do little about them. Problems created by men such as crime, corruption, injustice, oppression, aggression, discrimination, violence, greed, etc. can be solved by people. AIDS is unlike malaria and tuberculosis. AIDS is a consequence of a moral and cultural failure that no amount of money or “war chest” can stop. But AIDS can be stopped simply by people not to engage in promiscuous and immoral sex. Contaminated blood can be eliminated by scientific means. Most of the problems in the world are made by humankind.
17. Do good.
If you do something good for yourself, it may last for a lifetime. If you do something good for mankind, it may last for generations. If you do something good for truth, it will last for eternity.
18. Cruelty.
Besides murder, rape, sex trade, kidnapping, and terrorism, the cruelest thing is parents who do not love but abuse their children. Men and women who do not love and care for children have no right to become parents.
19. Discrimination.
Discrimination is wrong in any form whether in employment, education, housing or public facilities by the majority against the minority or by the minority against the majority. Any law is inherently wrong if certain racial or ethnic groups are given special treatment, privileges and favors. Justice means all have equal footing and all are equal under the law. For that reason, Affirmative Action is unconstitutional and unlawful.
20. False doctrines.
It must be made absolutely clear. The Holy Bible does not teach or support the following false doctrines: (A). papacy (B). purgatory (C). transubstantiation (D). confession of sins to priest (E). salvation by good deeds (F). worship of, or prayer to, Mary and saints (G). all illness can be cured by faith (H). offerings to church as a path to prosperity (I). speaking in tongues as proof of the baptism or filling of the Holy Spirit (J). paradise as a place with beautiful virgins for men to enjoy (K). killing of people as a holy war for the cause of religion Doctrines contrary to the Word of God are false.
21. Being and Becoming.
Being is what you are, becoming is what you should be. Being is the principle of becoming, and becoming is the process of being.
Things to be: (A). Be clean. (B). Be diligent. (C). Be frugal. (D). Be honest. (E). Be kind. (F). Be polite. (G). Be respectable. (H). Be self-sufficient. (I). Be thoughtful.
22. Spiritual riches.
To be rich in faith, hope, love, knowledge, skill, and virtue are more important and valuable than to be rich in money. Those who value the material and sensual above the moral and spiritual are the poorest and most miserable people in the world. To be rich in the faith is to be spiritually rich.
23. Prerequisites for happiness.
There are four prerequisites for happiness: (A). To love and be loved. (B). A comfortable living condition. (C). Freedom from fear or harm. (D). Opportunity for creativity.
24. A meaningful life.
If you drink, smoke, use illegal drugs and engage in promiscuous sexual immorality simultaneously, that is a quick way of destroying your life. If you want to live a meaningful life, seek the truth, buy wisdom and do what is good and right. This is the meaning that you are the master of your own destiny. Life is meaningful when you do good and do right under any circumstances.
25. Perception and reason.
Perception is the eye of reason, and reason is the brain of perception. Not only they interact with each other, they are also influenced by experience. For this reason, men of certain cultures abuse, mistreat, torture and even kill their wives and do not consider it wrong. To liberate from cultural bondage and blindness, one must think independently guided by conscience and see things as they really are.
26. Things I have learned.
Things I have learned: wisdom is better than ignorance, humility better than arrogance, virtue better than vice, truth better than lie, and light is better than darkness. The saddest thing about humankind is this: most people have chosen darkness and lies.
27. Life is a journey.
Life is a journey; it does not matter where you begin, it all matters where you end. A person who does not know where he is or where he is going must be lost. There are only two destinations: Heaven and Hell. No one is good enough to go to Heaven, but you can receive it as a gift of God by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. All unbelievers and the wicked will go to Hell for eternal punishment.
28. Friendship.
Friendship is created by mutual recognition and maintained by mutual commitment. When any of the two elements is missing, friendship is broken. When one side only takes and does not give and takes advantage of you, be smart it is not a true friend. It is easier for a friend to turn into an enemy; it is rarely that an enemy turns into a friend. There is a Friend dearer than any, Jesus Christ can be your Savior and Friend for eternity.
29. Success and failure.
The difference between success and failure is only one step. A wrong step results in failure, and a right step leads to success. America is the nation where the success or failure of a man is measured by his wealth or poverty. As Jesus says, the life of a man does not consist in his property and possessions. What a man is is more important than what he has. It is better to be a righteous poor than the richest crook in the world.
30. Three classes of people.
There are three classes of people: the upper class are those who know and realize first; the middle class are those who know and realize later; the lower class are those who never know or realize. The world has a wrong classification: the rich are the upper class, the middle class are neither rich or poor, and the low class the poor.
31. A good man.
A man is not good because he does good deeds; a man does good deeds because he is good. A good tree bears good fruits.
32. God.
I believe God is Self-Existent, Eternal and Almighty who created the universe and humankind according to the Holy Bible. Jesus Christ was God who came into the world to save sinners and rose from the dead. Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior. The world will come to an end when the Lord Jesus Christ returns to judge the world and reign with the saints forever and ever…
33. Evolution
Evolution is the biggest scientific myth. You know science is the best organized human knowledge at a place in time. Science is never absolute, progressive and tentative. The hypothesis that a lower species over hundreds of millions or billions of years, evolved into a higher species is a science fiction which has never been and cannot be proven. The intelligent design of the universe and the complexity of the earth’s plants and animals cannot be explained by evolution theory. For thousands of years monkeys have remained as monkeys, and not one ever evolved into a man. However, many men have morally degraded into monkeys. It is easier to believe that I made a small bang, my digital world time and thermometer watch came into being than to believe the universe was originated by a “big bang.” The philosopher proclaimed, “The Lord by wisdom laid the earth’s foundation; by understanding He set the universe in place.” The claim that the earth and all life forms came into existence about 6,000 years ago is not taught in the Bible. The Bible declares, “In the beginning God created the universe and the earth.” More than 2,700 years ago the prophet Isaiah learned by revelation that God “created the universe and stretched it out …” Only recently scientists discovered “the expanding universe.” Unbelieving scientists, suffering from spiritual “swelling of the brain” would rather believe in a chance creation without a creator, and intelligent design without the designer. One thing I do know: Jesus Christ is my God and Savior. This knowledge is more certain than anything else I know.
34. China.
China in Chinese is Zhongguo, which means Central Kingdom; but Western scholars wrongly translated as Middle Kingdom. If you call central bank as middle bank, you will understand why the meaning is wrong. Western scholars tend to have an egocentric worldview and arrogant without end.
35. Legal system.
A legal system that encourages and protects criminals, blackmails and victimizes the innocent, enriches lawyers, judges, court and law enforcement officials at the expense of taxpayers and victims does NOT serve justice. A legal system that does not serve justice causes injustice.
36. The decline of a nation.
The faster a nation declines, the more intense are the following signs: (A). Corruption in government (B). Large-scale family disintegration (C). General moral degradation (D). Predatory fraudulent practices like medical care (E). Vulgarity and violence (F). Glorification of deviancy (G). Pernicious judiciary travesty (H). Prevalent urban decay (I). Extreme wealth and poverty
37. The Fourteen Points.
After I received a Christmas card from the White House, on February 1,1969 I wrote and presented the Fourteen Points to President Richard Nixon as follows: (1) Unite the nation (2) Stabilize national economy (3) Assert human rights (4) Uplift national morale (5) Subsidize higher education (6) Attack air pollution (7) Bridge racial gap (8) Reduce crime rate (9) Industrialize the South (10) Provide full employment (11) Reform welfare system (12) Seek world peace (13) Negotiate from strength (14) Assist underdeveloped countries
Nixon had done more for world peace than anyone in his century. During his administration the world was safer than it is today. Nixon did not seek world domination, he sought a just and lasting peace. To make enemies does not require ability, to make friends requires skills. To make wars is easy and destructive, to make peace is difficult.
38. A list of the most important people.
Granted there is freedom of expression, one may believe whatever one wants to believe. That is also religious freedom. I hold it is blasphemous to put Jesus Christ on the same par with dictators, killers, warmongers, liars, deceivers, false prophets, false preachers, monopolists, capitalists, imperialists, white supremacists, predators, the wicked and evil men. My list of the most important persons ever lived in history does not compare anyone with the persons in the Holy Bible, much less to compare with Jesus Christ. I protest any individual or institution that lifts up evil men and crooks to link with my God and Savior. Anyone who compares Jesus Christ with other men who lived and died apparently does not know who Jesus Christ really is and must be an enemy of the Lord.
This is my list of the most important people:
(1) Martin Luther
(2) John Bunyan
(3) Isaac Newton (4) Galileo Galilei (5) William Shakespeare (6) Leonardo Da Vinci (7) John Locke (8) Abraham Lincoln (9) Thomas Edison (10) Deng Xiaoping (11) William Tyndale (12) Immanuel Kant (13) Mohandas Gandhi (14) Ludwig van Beethoven (15) Woodrow Wilson (16) Mao Zedong (17) Richard Nixon (18) Michelangelo (19) Louis Pasteur (20) Helen Keller
Note: Ignorant people confuse M.L. King with Martin Luther.
39. Jesus has a question.
Jesus Christ asks those who pretend to be Christians, “Why do you call Me Lord, Lord, and not do the things I say?” ( Luke 6:46 ) “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” ( John 10:27 ) Christians follow Jesus Christ. You do not follow Jesus because you are not His sheep. Idolaters, liars, killers and robbers should not claim to be Christians. Liars and killers and robbers should not call themselves Christians. According to Jesus, liars and killers are children of the Devil.
40. Good and evil.
The differences between good and evil are inherently greater than the differences between East and West. The good people of the East have more in common with the good people of the West than the bad people of the East. The good people of the West have more in common with the good people of the East than the bad people of the West. All good people of the world must unite to overcome all the bad people of the world. All peace-loving nations of the world must unite to prevent war-loving nations from bullying and conquering another nation. All righteous nations of the world must unite to stop unrighteous nations from destroying the world. World domination is an unholy ambition; it must be banished from the earth.
41. The biggest historical lie.
The biggest historical lie has been “white man’s burden”. Colonialism and imperialism were created and justified by this pernicious and pretentious doctrine. There was no accident, except Japan, all colonial and imperialistic powers have been and still are white nations. Colonial and imperialistic powers used military force to attack, dominate, conquer and control over other nations, territories and peoples. Europe was made rich by robbing and exploiting the natural resources and forced labor of Asian, African, and Latin American colonies. The most barbaric and vicious event of white man’s history was the Opium Wars (1839-42, 1856-60) in which Great Britain forced China to buy opium, and lead other nations including USA, France, Russia, Germany, Italy, Austria-Hungary, Belgium, Spain, Netherlands and Japan to kill Chinese people; attack, occupy and partition China; loot and destroy China’s national treasures worth US$100,000 trillion. If you go to the British Museum, the Louvre, Smithsonian Institution, European and Japanese museums, and private collectors, etc. you will find many priceless treasures of China. Except Japan (that killed 35 million Chinese in World War II), all ten nations claim to be Christian nations. It is high time for these 11 nations to pay compensation and war reparations to China. For Jesus Christ says, “Surely, I say to you, you will not get out of there till you have paid the last penny.” ( Matthew 5:26 ) “For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of scribes and Pharisees, you will certainly not enter the Kingdom of Heaven.” ( Matthew 5:20 ) You may have your empires for a moment, but never the eternal Kingdom of Heaven.
42. Man.
Man is a tripartite of intelligence, value and personality (IVP). Intelligence is mental ability, value is moral quality, and personality is individual capacity. The most deadly values are money, sex and power. All dictators have been obsessed over money, sex and power. Consequently, most of the world’s problems have been caused by the pursuit of these three fatal spiritual viruses. The lust for power is the mother of all wars and the father of all warmongers bent on world domination. All warmongers believe and practice “might makes right.” The worst kinds of warmongers are those who enlist God to justify their aggression. Western colonialists and imperialists killed millions of native peoples all over the world and they thought they offered God service. Your intelligence, value and personality make you what you are. All crimes and vices can be traced to self-centeredness, self-seeking and egocentrism. Self-centered people disregard the life, property and rights of others. The more self-centered a person is, the more evil he becomes. Self-centered people may have high or low intelligence, but all have faulty values and flawed personalities. For example, Hitler had high intelligence, low value and charismatic personality.
43. Good Society.
A good society is made of Liberty, Prosperity, Equality, Security and Civility. Liberty is freedom from tyranny. Tyranny can only come from abuse of power by the government officials and business monopoly. Prosperity is freedom from poverty. Poverty is caused by lack of education and opportunity, and oppression and exploitation practiced by monopolies and capitalists. Equality is freedom from injustice. Injustice is caused by inequality under the law and special treatment for the rich and powerful and interest groups. Security is freedom from harm. Crime and fraud undermine one’s security. Civility is freedom from violence and vulgarity. Uncivilized peoples are products of inferior cultures. What is the point to be the only superpower while its people live in fear and want? The most advanced weapons do not improve the quality of a society one bit. The grandiose national missile defense does not protect the people from murder, rape, robbery, assault, kidnapping, terrorism, arson, fraud, violence, etc. every day. This Theory of Good Society was conceived when I was visiting Scandinavia in 1975. There is not one country that has a Good Society anywhere in the world today.
44. Three kinds of evil.
There are three kinds of evil: contributory, inherent, and ultimate. Contributory evil is the evil resulted from an act or attitude that by itself may not be apparently evil. For example, using cell phone and drive that causes accident is a contributory evil. Distracted driving is bound to cause accidents. Promiscuous sex actively contributes to the spread of AIDS and STDs, and pregnancies of AIDS women who produce AIDS children are inherently evil. Drunk driving is an inherent evil because it impairs the driving skill of a driver and kills innocent victims. A drunk driver who kills commits murder in the eyes of God, not manslaughter. Drunk drivers and people who habitually run through red lights do not respect the life, property and rights of others. Guns are inherently evil because they are instruments of death. Ultimate evil has spiritual dimensions; it deliberately sins against God, tramples on the truth, and rejects the light. Examples of ultimate evil are wars of aggression, corruption, oppression, deception, distortion, extortion, discrimination, genocide, murder, rape, robbery, kidnapping, hijacking, bombing, terrorism, injustice, drug trafficking, etc., and ministry of Satan that spreads lies and pretends to be a servant of God.
45. Death penalty.
Death penalty is not murder, but administration of justice to those who shed the blood of man and deserve to die. For death is the only fit penalty for those who kill. According to the law of God, “Whoever sheds man’s blood, by man his blood shall be shed.” (Genesis 9:6) Those who are friends of convicted murderers and foes of capital punishment are invariably the enemies of innocent victims and foes of justice and law. Media that sleekly reports the number of executions without reporting the thousands of innocent people being killed brutally every year is guilty of gross deception and misrepresentation. No one deserves to be killed, but every murderer deserved to be executed. Death penalty definitely deters crime, for an executed murderer can kill no more. To allow convicted murderers to have unlimited appeals and unlimited rights over a number of years after death sentence certainly does not deter criminals. To oppose death penalty on ground that an innocent person may be executed is a lame excuse. Do not confuse a flawed justice system with the legitimacy of capital punishment. Under a just legal system, if you are innocent, ten thousand prosecutors should not be able to convict you. If you are guilty, ten thousand dream teams of high-powered defense lawyers would not be able to acquit you. Any court official who convicts an innocent or acquits a guilty one should be punished severely. There is a correlation between a flawed justice system that encourages criminals and the number of offenses committed.
45. Wisdom.
Wisdom is to know the difference between right and wrong, good and evil, important and unimportant and act accordingly. A fool can be defined as a person who does not know the difference between right and wrong, good and evil, important and unimportant and thus acts wrongly. Wisdom is the application of true knowledge correctly and effectively.
46. Greatest enemy or friend.
You are your own greatest enemy or greatest friend. If you evil and do wrong, you are your own greatest enemy. If you do good and right, you are your greatest friend. Illustrations illumine truth, but truth may offend people.
Examples of how you become your own greatest enemy:
(A). You are lazy in your job, tardy, unwilling to learn, unmotivated, irresponsible, insubordinate, uncooperative, not doing your duty, etc. – you are your own greatest enemy.
(B). As a student you are not doing your home work, you often skip classes, you do not pay attention to lecture and do not take notes, you rarely spend time studying the assignment, etc. – you are your own greatest enemy.
(C). You adopt unhealthy behavior of smoking, drinking, doping, engaging in unsafe sex and promiscuity, etc. – you are your own greatest enemy.
(D). You drive recklessly, drink and drive, drive through red light, drive on pedestrian sidewalk, drive at unsafe speed, drive with incessant honking, your car is a deadly weapon and you are a potential killer, etc. – you are your own greatest enemy.
(E). You do not take care of yourself, you eat irregularly, you eat junk food, you indulge yourself in eating and eating that you become overweight and obese; – you are your own greatest enemy.
(F). You do not manage your finance responsibly, you buy what you do not need, you spend what you cannot afford, you borrow, you spend more than you earn, you charge credit card senselessly; – you are your own greatest enemy.
(G). You are not faithful to your spouse; you engage in extra-marital affairs, you consider variety of sex partners as spice of life; – you are your own greatest enemy.
(H). You are dirty, noisy, and disorderly (DND); – you are your own greatest enemy.
(I). You are full of wrong ideas, and yet you do not know the difference between right and wrong, good and evil, important and unimportant; – you are your own greatest enemy.
(J). You are self-centered, egotistical, loud and arrogant, have no respect for others, a downright supremacist; – you are your own greatest enemy.
(K). If you reject the Word of God, reject the truth and follow evil, refuse to come and believe in Jesus Christ, you are not only your greatest enemy, you will die in your sins.
Examples of how you become your own greatest friend.
(A). You are diligent in your job, arrive at work early, willing to learn, motivated, responsible, following orders, cooperative, doing your duty, etc. – you are your own greatest friend.
(B). As a student you always do your home work, never miss a class, eagerly listen to lecture and take notes, and spend a lot of time on studying your assignment, etc. – you are your own greatest friend.
(C). You live decently and honorably, you do not smoke, do not drink, do not use drugs, do not practice sexual immorality, etc. – you are your own greatest friend.
(D). You drive responsibly and carefully and do not violate traffic rules and regulations, etc. – you are your own greatest friend.
(E). You take good care of yourself, maintaining good physical and mental health, you are not overweight, etc. – you are your own greatest friend.
(F). You manage your finance carefully and responsibly, you do not charge what you cannot afford, you do not go into debt but save and be thrifty, etc. – you are your own greatest friend.
(G). You believe in true love and fidelity, you have been faithful to your spouse, and you reject temptation of extra-marital affairs, etc. – you are your own greatest friend.
(H). You are self-disciplined, not dirty, noisy or disorderly; – you are your own greatest friend.
(I). You seek the truth and verify facts, assess the costs and benefits of each important idea and do not blindly follow people; – you are your own greatest friend.
(J). You have a correct assessment of yourself, strong but not domineering, humble but not timid, balanced and moderate; – you are your own greatest friend.
(K). If you accept the Word of God, follow the truth, and come and believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, you are not only your greatest friend, you will receive eternal life.
47. Choice.
You have no choice to be born, but you have a choice how to live. You have no choice to be born rich, but you can by your own efforts make yourself useful and so enrich the world. You have no choice to be born beautiful, but you can develop your inner beauty by being virtuous. You have no choice to be born tall, but you can become a person of stature. You have no choice where to be born, but you can improve where you live. You have no choice to be born of what race, but you can live in a way to honor your race. You have no choice to be born with what level of IQ, but you can improve the way you use your intelligence. You have no choice of who to be your parents, but you have a choice what kind of parent you want to be. You have no choice who are to be your brothers and sisters, but you have a choice who are to be your friends. You have no choice when people discriminate or oppress you; but you have a choice to treat people with kindness and respect. You have no choice when people around you are corrupt, but you have a choice to be morally clean and upright. You have no choice when you are going to die, but you have a choice to die in Christ or to die in your sins. You cannot change the world, but you can change yourself.
48. The ABCDE of Salvation:
A. God existed by Himself eternally before time and space. God created the universe and the humankind and rules the universe absolutely.
B. Man disobeyed and rebelled against God. The wages of sin is death. That is why all have to die and you and I have to die. Man cannot save himself. Man cannot save himself by his own deeds or merit or power.
C. God did not want the world to perish and sent His Son Jesus Christ into the world to save sinners by dying on the cross for them. Jesus Christ rose from death for our justification, ascended into heaven and He is coming again to redeem the bodies of believers and reign with them for eternity in the new heaven and new earth – the New Jerusalem.
D. If you believe and accept the Lord Jesus in your heart, and confess Him before the public as your Savior, and the Lord to give you the Holy Spirit you may be saved and receive the eternal life which is a gift of God. Because no one is good enough to enter Heaven, it is by faith and through grace that you are saved.
E. The time to repent and believe in Jesus Christ is now. Today is the day of salvation. Do not neglect such a great salvation. Tomorrow may be too late for you.
Jesus Christ says, “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life; he does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.” ( Jhn 5:24 )Will you now accept and believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? You can do it now.
49. Justice.
Justice has a utilitarian value, quantitative and qualitative. Good is better than bad. What is good for one person is not as good as what is good for many persons. What is good for many persons is not as good as what is good for most people. What is good for most people is not as good as what is good for all people. What is good for all people at one time is not as good as what is good for all people at all times. The measure of justice is a measure of quantity and quality. The greatest justice is what is good for the greatest number of people. Injustice is the opposite of justice. Thus the greatest injustice is the greatest evil for the greatest number of people at all times. Justice is the noblest virtue because it is good for the greatest number of people at all times. Injustice is the greatest evil because it is bad for the greatest number of people at all times. Above all, justice is righteousness in action.
50. Evil and stupidity.
There are two things that bother me most in the world: evil and stupidity. Evil is much worse than bad. Smoking is bad, but those who willfully smoke in elevator or restroom or forbidden place are evil. Evil has many forms and kinds and shapes and degrees, but the least of evil is still evil. All sins are evil. All crimes are evil, but not every sin is a crime. Evil is defined by the sight of God. What God sees as evil is evil. Crimes are defined by states. Due to the fact the legal system made by men is flawed, even a president who repeatedly committed perjuries could escape punishment. Hatred in your heart is not a crime, but it is a sin. An evil heart produces many evil deeds. All forms of aggression, violence, greed, fraud, falsehood, exploitation, oppression, injustice, immorality, terrorism, etc. are evil. Many nations, organizations, corporations and individuals are evil. Imperialism, colonialism, militarism, hegemonism, capitalism, totalitarianism, Nazism, and terrorism are evil. Dictators, oppressors, violators, warmongers, drug or human traffickers, pimps and prostitutes, predatory doctors and lawyers, corrupt bankers and executives are evil. The greatest economic and financial evil in the history of mankind was created by Wall Street which looted the world more than $50 trillion. Consequently you see some nations and others going bankrupt or on the brink of bankruptcy, many more millions and millions of people lost their homes and jobs. The two greatest evils confronting the world today are hegemonism and terrorism. Stupidity is a combination of folly, senselessness, foolishness, ignorance, and irrationality. Poor people know they are poor, but stupid people do not know they are stupid. There are at least two things that constitute one’s stupidity. One is the inability to distinguish between right and wrong, good and evil, important and unimportant, etc. This is the deadly flaw of human nature. If you do not know the difference between what is right and wrong, then most likely you will do wrong. A man can do wrong even if he knows what is right. No man can do right if he does not know the difference between what is right or wrong. A person who does not distinguish between what is good and evil will most likely do evil.The second thing about stupidity is unpreparedness. The wise prepares for the inevitable. The foolish does not know what it needs or takes to accomplish something. The stupid student may dream of attending a first class university, but he does not prepare himself for it. The stupid loses opportunity because he is never ready for anything. Stupid people not only harm themselves, they also harm others even unintentionally. The way of the world is the way of evil. Seeing there are more and more evil things in the last days, the more I understand why we have to pray,
Luk 11:4 , “… but deliver us from evil.” With regard to stupidity,
Pro 14:24 , “The crown of the wise is their riches, but the pre-eminence of fools is folly.” Evil and stupid are the thoughts, words and deeds of sinful mankind.
51. Are you weary
The world is full of pain and sorrows, distress and difficulties. My friend, are you weary of life? Do you want rest for your soul? Jesus Christ says,
Mat 11:28-29 , “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”Rest in verse 28 in Greek is anapauō which means cessation from any movement or labor in order to recover and collect one’s strength, taking rest, refreshing; – it occurs about 12 times in the New Testament. Rest in verse 29 in Greek is anapausis which means intermission, cessation of any motion, business or labor, recreation, respite, blessed tranquility of soul; – it occurs only 5 times in the New Testament. Come to Jesus Christ, not only you can find rest, respite, and recreation for your soul; you will find blessed tranquility. All rest in this world is temporary, but there is His rest.
Hbr 4:3,6-7, “For we who have believed enter that rest, just as He has said: “AS I SWORE IN MY WRATH, THEY SHALL NOT ENTER MY REST,” although His works were finished from the foundation of the world… Therefore, since it remains for some to enter it, and those who formerly had good news preached to them failed to enter because of disobedience, He again fixes a certain day, “Today,” saying through David after so long a time just as has been said before, “TODAY IF YOU HEAR HIS VOICE, DO NOT HARDEN YOUR HEARTS.” Rest here in Greek is katapausis which means a resting place, metaphorically, the Heavenly blessedness in which God dwells, and of which He has promised to make persevering believers in Christ partakers after the toils and trials and tribulations of life on earth are ended. The eternal resting place for Christians is Heaven. The only way you may enter that eternal bliss is through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. It is up to you to make the decision today.
52. Limited human intelligence.
Human beings are defined by infinite varieties of limitations. We shall dwell on limited intelligence only. When you ride on subway, you really do not know where there are empty seats; otherwise you would not enter the wrong subway car door and stand on your feet. You get into a huge parking lot, you do not know exactly where there are parking spaces available; so you drive and drive, turn and turn, and looking at the wrong places. When you make friends, you really have no idea what impact they could make on your life. When you move to a town, you do not know exactly it will be good for your life or not. A Korean couple moved from Seoul to Los Angeles with their son and daughter and started a small business. During the Los Angeles Black Riot, the son who was defending their store was killed by the blacks. Had the South Koreans known what would happen to them, would they be willing to move to America? When you want and need a spouse, you do not know exactly where there is a man (if you are a woman) or a woman (if you are a man) who would be willing to marry you; so you look and look, wait and wait, wasting so much time and efforts often with disappointment. I knew a young beautiful blonde, who came from a well educated family, who was married to a white man. She would not and could not have known after 20 years of marriage later, the man would say to her that he wanted now to marry a younger woman. By the way, I met that white man, I had a very bad impression of him the first time we met; but it would not be right for me to say so then (before the divorce) to his father and mother in-laws whom I knew. When you choose a major at a university, you do not know exactly what your career would be. When you accept a job, you do not know what the future holds for the company or you. If you take a flight, you do not know it will be a crash or not. Years ago I met one American doctor attending a conference in Sweden; he told me his family would come later in another plane because they would not dare to have the whole family in one plane, lest the unthinkable may happen. During the Los Angels earthquake, the camera caught a car live driving on a bridge. The driver did not know when he was driving, the bridge in front of his car collapsed and he and his car plunged into the sea. One thing every intelligent person knows is the fact that life is full of uncertainties. If you do not prepare an umbrella before it is raining, that is not limited intelligence, it is sheer stupidity. The wise prepares for the inevitable. How small, fragile, and helpless are human beings! Among the most arrogant and self-important people are unbelieving scientists who boldly declare things that happened billions of years ago even though they were not there; yet they do not even know when they are going to die. You cannot be sure of anything; but one thing is sure: we will all die.
Job 19:25 , “I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last He will stand on the earth.” Jesus Christ is coming again soon to reign.
2Ti 1:12 , “For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am confident that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that Day.” That Day is the Day Jesus Christ is coming again. This knowledge is more useful and valuable than all scientific knowledge. If you are willing, Jesus can be your Redeemer by faith. You can know Jesus Christ, the Lord and Savior.
53. Evil trinity.
Of all the evils and ills in the world, I do not know and cannot find any which is not related or connected to the love of money, power and sex. Because of the love of money, power and sex, the worst atrocity, brutality, cruelty, immorality, incivility, inhumanity, inequality, iniquity, and injustice have been committed by humankind without number. Washington, Wall Street and Hollywood represent the evil trinity. The evil trinity is the greatest problems of the world today.
54. Deadly ideologies.
The most deadly and destructive ideologies that ruined the world include imperialism, colonialism, totalitarianism, capitalism, militarism, authoritarianism, monopolism, hegemonism and terrorism. Imperialism was the most ancient ideology which began with the Babylonian empire. All emperors were dictators. For example, a Chinese emperor could decree killing a man and members of his nine clans. The folly of imperialism is conquest of other nations by sheer military power devoid of reason or morality. The brutality of empires was inhuman and shocking as well known in the Roman Empire. Colonialism was born with the idea of “white man’s burden” – the most destructive and demeaning of European enterprises in modern history. The disgrace of colonialism was dressed up in religious piety in the name of God and Christianity. White supremacists believed they are superior race and given the divine right to rule and civilize the world. Consequently Europe and America became filthy rich by robbing and exploiting the resources of its colonies or natives. In fact, fascism, Nazism, imperialism, colonialism, hegemonism, terrorism, etc. also belong to totalitarianism. Colonialism begat capitalism. Capitalism is the most sophisticated economic and financial system that infects the whole world. The West is still the de facto ruler of the world. Capitalism produces most greedy and unjust society. Capitalism is driven mad by the love of money, and the love of money is the root of all evils. The evils created by capitalism are inestimable and incalculable. As a case in point, Wall Street in 2008 created the biggest economic and financial crisis in the history of mankind and looted the world more than $50 trillion dollars. Capitalism puts wealth and power in the hands of the few and let the masses suffer poverty and injustice. Because of greed America has the most costly and predatory healthcare system in the world. Because of greed America has the largest debts and deficits in the world. Greed is the terminator of all that is good and moral, such as truth, justice, love, goodness, kindness, decency, compassion. Hegemonism is a crafty new combination of old imperialism, colonialism, capitalism, democracy, and racism. Democracy appears to be more wicked because governments that claim to be democratic do not serve the interests of the people, in fact they exactly serve special interests. Democracy is phony like a $3 bill. Racism originally was practiced by whites against non-whites, now it is also practiced by blacks and other races who are in power. A hegemonic nation under the pretext of religious freedom, democracy, human right, etc. may attack, occupy, and interfere in the internal affairs of other nations to serve its own interest. When 1% of population rules over the 99% of the population, that is not democracy, but dictatorship. The world is facing two greatest threats: imperialism and terrorism. Terrorism has been used by religious extremists to create havoc and hardship all over the world. The terrorism that brought the world into terror and darkness is complicated by irrational religious belief. Convinced by personal experience and observation and belief in the Holy Bible, the world is not getting better. In summary, imperialism, colonialism, totalitarianism, capitalism, militarism, hegemonism and terrorism are not compatible with Christianity. No ideology or system of government and politics can save the world. The only cure and elimination of all the ills and evils of the world is the second coming of Jesus Christ to judge and destroy the world and bring down a new heaven and a new earth and rule as King of kings and Lord of lords – the eternal Kingdom of God. The saints will reign with Jesus Christ for eternity.
55. The works of the flesh
Gal 5:19-23 ,“Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the Kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.”
Eph 2:3,“Among these we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, following the desires of body and mind, and so we were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind.”
Rev 18:2，“And he cried mightily with a loud voice, saying：Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and has become a dwelling place of demons, a prison for every foul spirit, and a cage for every unclean and hated bird! ”
Rev 18:10 , “Standing at a distance for fear of her torment, saying: Alas, alas, that great city Babylon, that mighty city! For in one hour your judgment has come.”
Sooner or later the judgment will come to everyone, especially the supremacists, imperialists, colonialists, capitalists, monopolists, warmongers, aggressors, dictators, oppressors.
Rev 18:21 , “Then a mighty angel took up a stone like a great millstone and threw it into the sea, saying: Thus with violence the great city Babylon shall be thrown down, and shall not be found anymore. ”
56. Faith and prayer.
An unbeliever wrote, “Faith and prayer just won’t cut it. In fact, they’ll get in the way.” The man who compared faith and prayer with magical thinking, Marxism, Prohibition, Head Start, Toyota, baseball, sabermetrics and one summary prescriptive and thinking himself wise to resist the truth, not knowing he is totally ignorant of the Christian faith and spiritual things. It is not open-mindedness to dismiss what you do not know as wrong and useless. Let the man ask himself: what do you know? Do you know when you are going to die? It is like a blind man who disbelieves in the glorious sunset because he has never seen one; or a deaf man who dismisses the majestic choral work of Messiah by Handel because he simply could not hear it. True, faith and prayer cannot reduce the huge American deficits and debts. It was not by faith and prayer that lawmakers and politicians and officials incurred the largest debts and deficits in the history of mankind. It was greed, fiscal irresponsibility, special interests, money and power politics, etc. that caused the debts and deficits.
Mar 11:22 , “And Jesus answered saying to them: Have faith in God.”
Note: Faith in Greek here is pistis which means conviction of the truth of something, belief; – it occurs 244 times in the New Testament. In the New Testament faith is a conviction or belief respecting man’s relationship to God and divine things, generally with the included idea of trust and holy fervor born of faith and joined with it; conviction that God exists and is the Creator and Ruler of all things, the provider and bestower of eternal salvation through Jesus Christ; a strong and welcome conviction or belief that Jesus is the Messiah, through whom we obtain eternal salvation in the Kingdom of God; belief with the predominate idea of trust (or confidence) whether in God or in Christ, springing from faith in the same.
Jhn 14:1, “Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. ”
Note: To be troubled in Greek is tarassō which means to agitate, disquiet, make restless, strike one’s spirit with fear and dread, render anxious or distressed; – it occurs 17 times in the New Testament. The world is full of troubles. All human beings have troubles, only different kinds and degrees of troubles. Knowing fully well of our limitations, that is the main reason we have faith and pray to God. Believe in Greek is pisteuō which means to think to be true, to be persuaded of, to credit, place confidence in, have confidence, trust in Jesus or God as able to aid either in obtaining or in doing something, put in trust with; – it occurs 248 times in the New Testament. To believe is to have faith. To believe in God is to have faith in God. To believe in Christ is to have faith in Christ. I readily and gladly admit that I believe in God and believe also in Christ. I would not believe in unbelieving scientists, scholars, journalists, politicians, etc. of the entire world put together. I know whom I have believed. This one thing I know, Jesus Christ is my God and Savior; this knowledge is more certain than anything else I know. Anyone has religious freedom, even an obscure journalist has the right not to believe in God. I stand with the giants of faith, Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, David, Elijah, Daniel, etc. of the Old Testament; and I stand with Paul, John, James, Peter, Andrew, Stephen, Timothy, Titus, etc. of the New Testament in believing in God and Jesus Christ. I stand with Martin Luther, John Locke, Abraham Lincoln, John Bunyan, William Tyndale, G. Campbell Morgan, J. C. Ryle, Helen Keller and many others who believed in God and also believed in Christ. I do not want to sit with any famous or infamous Western journalist or scientist or politician who does not believe in faith and prayer. Please read my article on Faith .
As regards prayer, Psa 65:2 , “O You who hear prayer, to You all flesh will come. ” I pray simply for the reason God hears my prayers. God has answered my prayers countless times. It is real and true. There is no reason for me to lie. God saved my life many times. There are hundreds and hundreds of millions of believers all over the world who have faith in God and pray. Psa 50:15 , “And call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.” This Scripture cited above is more real to me than promise of any man, past or present. I must testify to the truth of it because I called upon the Lord in the days of trouble many many times, and the Lord delivered me, and I glorified Him. Hundreds of millions of Christians everywhere can testify to the true experiences. The first unforgettable experience was when I was drowning as a lad. Had not God delivered me I would have been dead long ago. Another time my tire blew up on a California freeway, God spoke and saved me. It is no exaggeration that God has answered my prayers a million times, big and small. I have seen miracles and wonders.
1Th 5:17, “Pray constantly.” Just as we breathe, so we pray constantly.
Phl 4:6 , “ Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. ” I take the Word of God literally and I pray in everything. I pray when I could not find things. I used to pray for a parking space, latter I prayed for a seat on the subway train. I pray when I have pain or get sick. I pray when I shop to find the thing I need at good price. I pray the Lord to keep my mails safe. Once I did not receive the form a government agency sent out, I was penalized for half a year. I pray to meet the people I should meet and avoid the people I should avoid. I pray millions will visit my website and come to the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Please read my article on Prayer .
In conclusion, some obscure journalists got fame and fortune by attacking Richard Nixon — person better and greater than they were. The ungodly journalist may want to be famous by attacking faith and prayer. “Faith and prayer just won’t cut it. In fact, they’ll get in the way. ” He got pay for what he wrote. I have read many distorted, biased, and false articles written by supremacists who got pay for what they wrote. In defending the Christian faith, I do not and would not get pay for what I write. As a matter of fact, I wrote more than a hundred articles on my website posted free for truth and justice, and I did not and do not get pay for what I have written. I have written because I want the world to know the truth free of charge, more than 7 million words. The world is made of two groups of people: goat, unbelievers are on the left; sheep, believers are on the right. Which side are you? The choice is yours while you are still alive. After death comes judgment.
Psa 116:8 , “For You have delivered my soul from death, my eyes from tears, and my feet from falling.”
Note: If you have known the God who has delivered your soul from death, your eyes from tears, and your feet from stumbling or falling; no famous or infamous persons can persuade you not to have faith in God and pray to Him constantly.
57. Religion and Politics.
This is a timely and very pertinent and important subject in the face presidential campaigns. There are a few principles need to be enunciated because corrupt politics is clouded and muddled with many wrong ideas.
(A). This is deliberate; the topic is not Christianity and Politics. Why? Jhn 18:36 , “Jesus answered: My Kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting so that I would not be handed over to the Jews; but as it is, My Kingdom is not of this realm.” Christianity is not worldly, it is other worldly. So Christianity does not deal with politics of the world. There is no Christian nationalism. There is no Christian Republicanism. There is no Christian nation on earth. There are plenty warmongers, imperialists, colonialists, supremacists, militarists, capitalists, dictators and oppressors who claim and pretend to be Christians. Christians are not fighting for the kingdom of this world. Christians are citizens of Heaven. No one has the right to promote herself as a Christian candidate.
Eph 2:19 , “So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household.” There are so many so-called self-anointed Bible advisors who label themselves evangelical or conservative but propose and propagate un-Biblical ideas for politicians to implement.
(B). There is no such a thing called Christendom. Western nations are not Christian nations. There is no Christian nation on earth. America is not a Christian nation. There is no historical evidence to claim that the United States was founded to be a Christian nation. The records of founding fathers like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, etc. are open for public examination. I am not interested in passing judgment on any of them whether they were Christians or not. If you reject the divinity of Jesus Christ, you cannot be a Christian. The issue is clear, if you think the United States is a Christian nation, national policy must be made in conformity to Christian principles. From its inception American white supremacists had killed the Red Indians and robbed their land. If the United States is not a Christian nation, you cannot force Christian principles on a pagan population. In fact, America is the most secular and worldly nation on earth with the national values of money, power and sex.
(C). No one should claim that God wants him/her to run for presidency when God does not do so and does not say so. It is on the borderline of blasphemy to make such a false claim. It is very bad to advertise yourself as a “born again Christian” and at the same time do un-Christian things and believe in evolution. It is immoral to withhold information so that life insurance companies can make big profits in selling whole life while term life is cheaper and best for most people. It is wicked to sign into law to violate the sovereignty of another nation and sell costly and deadly weapons to promote military conflict and war. It is evil to use democracy, religious freedom, rule of law, etc. as pretexts to attack and occupy other nations.
(D). Imperialism, colonialism, hegemonism, militarism, capitalism, terrorism, etc. are not only un-Christian; they are bad and wicked for any nation to adopt.
(E). Religious freedom applies to all citizens of all cultures. People have the right to believe in whatever god or faith of their choice so long the practice of their religion does not violate the law of the land and world-wide established mores. Religions like that legitimize polygamy have legal problems. Polygamy is illegal under the American law and international law. Forced circumcision of female genitalia is cruel and barbaric. No religion can support terrorism under any pretext. Some states behead their citizens converted to Christianity. Human sacrifice practiced by primitive religions is prohibitive. Oppression of women and girls under religious dogma is not acceptable. Burning incense and burnt-offerings pollute the air and environment. Snakes are deadly dangerous; no religion can protect dangerous animals as gods at the expense of human lives and safety.
(F). The Bible teaches the ideal principle of marriage:
Eph 5:22-30 , “Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the Church, He Himself being the Savior of the body. But as the church is subject to Christ, so also the wives ought to be to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the Church and gave Himself up for her, so that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, that He might present to Himself the church in all her glory, having no spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that she would be holy and blameless. So husbands ought also to love their own wives as their own bodies. He who loves his own wife loves himself; for no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ also does the Church, because we are members of His body.”
Note: The Scripture makes it clear: Wives submit to your own husbands; and husbands love your wives. The Scripture provides the model for a happy marriage. Wives submit to your husbands as the church submits to Christ. Husbands, love your wives as Christ loves the church. To love your wife is much more than to serve your wife. To love your wife is not to control your wife. We must be controlled by the Holy Spirit. Some feminists may argue against the inequality. Little do they know to submit is easy, to love is not. How difficult for a man to love his wife as Christ loved the Church and gave Himself up for her. The doctrine is not about sacrificial love, it is about Christ’s authority as the Head of the Church. Submission to your husband does not mean you respect each other. Submit in Greek is hypotassō which means to subordinate, put in subjection, obey, yield; – it occurs 40 times in the New Testament. Do not have private interpretation of the Bible. A wife only submits to her husband in everything private and conjugal matters. If a wife is elected the president of the United States, the woman does not submit to her husband in matters of the state, she submits to the people of America. The woman who claims God wanted her to run for presidency the outcome will soon be known. An unfulfilled prophecy is a false prophecy. No American woman has been elected American president so far. If God wants you to do something, you cannot fail. If you use God because you want to do something to advance yourself, you will face judgment.
(G). The Roman Catholic Church is an apostate church, papacy is anti-Christ. I do not know any pope is the Antichrist, because the Antichrist has not appeared yet. If a Catholic is elected the president, he can serve as long as he is not controlled by the monolithic Catholic church at the expense of American interest. By the same token, the principle applies to all other religions. However, the nation’s Catholic bishops have said repeatedly that a true Catholic cannot support any policy that allows abortion. In this way if a Catholic president wants to use his position to outlaw abortion, that makes him unfit to be the president. The abortion issue is the most facetious and malicious controversy. What should be done is not to outlaw abortion, but to outlaw adultery, fornication and sexual immorality which cause the pregnancy in the first place. Without illegal sex, there will be no need for abortion. Since it is impossible for a state or any state except a religion-dictated state to outlaw illicit sex, it is equally impossible to outlaw abortion. Why should a young woman raped by a criminal be forced to carry his child? My Christian view on sexual immorality and abortion cannot be forced upon the pagan population because America is not a Christian nation. Democracy is not theocracy. It is pointless and phony to argue at what point a baby gains human rights. Sex and abortion in a secular state should be a private matter and strictly regulated. For example, you cannot use fetus for illegal purposes. However, the state should not support women who had sex with men who did not love them and produced children they would not and could not support. For the same reason, although Christians are forbidden to divorce by Jesus Christ; the state cannot outlaw divorce to the pagan population although divorce should be regulated.
(H). It is hypocritical and irresponsible to maintain that the president can no longer consider his belief separate from action and faith unrelated to policymaking. The confusion lies in the unequal mixing of individual responsibility with the responsibility of the head of state. Although I believe peace is better than war, if any nation is attacked by a foreign power, that nation has no choice but to defend itself and destroy its enemy if possible. As an individual Christian, whoever slaps you on your right cheek, you turn the other to him also. As the head of state, you have the responsibility to your people and nation. If you are a black president, you bent on advancing the interests of black people only, you are unfit to be president. For this reason, any unfair, unjust legislation should be abolished. Whenever a racial group is given special right, the other races lose their right. Whenever a racial group is given preferential treatment, the other races are discriminated. As the president, I cannot appoint all cabinet members on the criterion whether they are Christians or not, or appoint my brother to be the Attorney General as Kennedy did. Though the president has many rich friends, the policy of excluding those who have annual income of $500,000 or more from Social Security benefits is a sound policy. Even the president has many friends who are doctors and hospital owners, to let the healthcare providers to continuously gouge and defraud and bankrupt millions of American families is immoral and wicked. To give tax cuts to the rich and powerful is evil and a bad policy. To legalize same-sex marriage is to promote abnormal behavior and deviant sex practices. To simplify the tax system into one-page form without deductions and exemptions would eliminate the need of CPA and lawyers and other interest groups, and to promote progressive taxation is justice although the rich and business interest would oppose them. Although Christians should go to church to hear the Word of God and sing praises to God, it would be unconstitutional to make church attendance mandatory for a pagan population. There is no confusion or conflict what a Christian must do individually and what the president must do as the leader of the nation.
(I). A born-again Christian is a believer who has been saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and the Holy Spirit enters and lives in him. It is phony for a politician to claim to be born again and believe in evolution. Jesus Christ validates and confirms the creation of man by direct act of God. Apostle Peter is not in charge of the pearly gate to question why anyone should be allowed into heaven. George H.W. Bush answered, “I would tell him I’m a good person. I tried my best to do the right things.” According to his own words, apparently Bush did not or does not know the way of salvation. No one is good enough to go to heaven. Salvation cannot be earned by good deeds.
See my article on An Open Letter to President Bush.
I may offend some people by telling the truth, I do not believe Reagan was a Christian, nor do I believe Eisenhower, Kennedy and Johnson (these three presidents threatened to use nuclear weapons in China) were Christians. I do not believe George H.W. Bush is a Christian. I do not believe many past American presidents who are still living are Christians. Some politicians now claim the “spiritual, not religious” mantle. True, Buddhists are religious but not Christian or spiritual. Islamic terrorists are religious but not spiritual. Dalai Lama is religiously claiming to be a living god, but not Christian or spiritual. The litmus test to be spiritual is this: Ask yourself do you know you have the Spirit of Christ in you? If you have the Spirit of Christ in you, then you are spiritual.
Rom 8:9 , “However, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him.”
(J). The question: Do they believe in Jesus? If so, what kind of Jesus do you believe in? – is not raised by a person who knows Jesus. There is no other Jesus except the historical Jesus presented in the New Testament.
1Ti 1:15 ,“It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all.” This same Jesus was God who became Man. Jesus existed before His incarnation. Before Abraham was, He is. Jesus was born of the virgin Mary conceived by the Holy Spirit. Jesus’words and deeds are written in the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John). Jesus died on the cross for sinners and rose again from the dead by the power of God. Jesus ascended to heaven and now sitting at the right hand of God. Jesus is preparing a place (Paradise) for believers. I believe the place was prepared long ago. Jesus Christ is coming again to be King of kings and Lord of lords, to reign with the saints forever and ever.
(K). With all the principles and perspectives presented above, can a Christian run for the American presidency and do an effective job? It would not be easy because the government and politics have been corrupted by moneyed and special interests. The candidate must decide for himself so long not to use the name of God in vain. A true Christian will know what God wants him/her to do. Blessed are those who do the will of God. As the president, although being a Christian, he must respect the religious freedom under the law. He is the president of American people, not just the Christians. A Christian president cannot force Christian principles on a pagan population. A Christian president can seek justice, truth and peace. A Christian president must give up the empire, shut down all overseas military bases, shrink the government, reduce deficits and national debt, stamp out corruption, eliminate fraud in general and healthcare system in particular, overhaul the government to serve the interests of the greatest number of Americans, and seek a harmonious and peaceful world as his foreign policy objective.
The worst thing is the imperialism wearing the sheep clothing of Christianity. Those who lie, kill, destroy, and rob are children of the devil; they have nothing to do with Christianity.
58. Evildoers
There are many evildoers in this world. They exist just to do evil deeds; for no other reason. By nature they are children of darkness and children of the devil. In the last days, there are evildoers who love power, money, pleasure and themselves. The day is coming, and God will destroy the wicked soon.
59. Human handicap.
Every human has a handicap; what I am referring to is not a physical handicap such as blindness, cerebral palsy, deafness, limp, paralysis, amputations, etc. What I am talking is a handicap worse than a physical handicap; it is a moral or spiritual handicap. Esau had a handicap, for one morsel of meat he sold his birthright.
Hbr 12:16 ,“Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright.”
Balaam had a handicap because he loved the wages of unrighteousness.
2Pe 2:15 ,“Forsaking the right way, they have gone astray, having followed the way of Balaam, the son of Beor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness.” That is the same sin committed by Wall Street, Washington, and Hollywood.
Samson had a handicap, for the looks of a woman he was betrayed and ruined by Delilah.
Jdg 14:3 ,“Then his father and his mother said to him: Is there no woman among the daughters of your relatives, or among all our people, that you go to take a wife from the uncircumcised Philistines? But Samson said to his father: Get her for me, for she looks good to me.”
Good looks may be deadly as Delilah. The handicap of Judas the traitor was being a thief and love of money. For thirty pieces of silver Judas betrayed the Lord.
Mat 27:3-5 ,“Then when Judas, who had betrayed Him, saw that He had been condemned, he felt remorse and returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, saying: I have sinned by betraying innocent blood. But they said: What is that to us? See to that yourself! And he threw the pieces of silver into the temple sanctuary and departed; and he went away and hanged himself.” For the love of money, power, and sex people will destroy themselves. Blessed is the person who knows what is his/her handicap and guard against it. I want to be an eternal being without human limitation.
60. Life without love.
Have you read that there are 96.6 million unmarried adults in the United States? Just 51 percent of the adult population is married, down from 72 percent in 1960. Of those 51 percent of Americans who is married, what percentage has been divorced, and divorced how many times? It is a complicated and heart-breaking and tragic matter that so many peoples in the world never find the love of their lives. The so-called marriage made in Heaven was an illusion or delusion. Charles and Diana proved the case. Even those who are married do not mean they have found the love of their lives. Overwhelming people of married couples that I have known are unhappy people. It is added insult to injury if I say the American way of life is the wrong way of life. People do not know how to live. Almost all people who do not know how to live are self-centered and selfish. The prevalent American values of money, power and sex are not conducive to a happy marriage; not conducive to a happy life. The carnal life is never a foundation for a happy marriage, or a happy life. Man is born to unhappiness, not happiness. I have never met a couple who
practices 1 Corinthian Chapter 13 has a broken marriage, or a broken life or relationship. Love gives, not get. Those who want to get more than to give can never succeed in love, or in life.
Is there anything more bitter than marrying the wrong person, a marriage without love?
61. Friend or Enemy.
This is a most malicious and vicious lie: “If you are not a friend, you must be an enemy.” It is not so. There are billions of peoples in the world which I never meet and never know and will never meet or will never know; they are neither friends nor enemies. I wish all the peoples in the world seek peace, justice and truth. I wish all the peoples in the world become civilized, clean, and cultured. The world is big enough for everyone except an aggressor or a bully, or a corrupt official or a supremacist or a terrorist. I have no time for billions of peoples, and I do not seek an enemy. Every human being should live and let live. Mind your own business. Millions of people I have met in my life are boring and uninteresting and undesirable peoples, but they are not my enemies. Superficial people are easy to make friends, but they are not sincere people and so do not fall into their trap of sweet and flowery talk. Most people in the world are undependable and ungrateful people. It is not easy to find a true friend. The proverb says: A friend in need is a friend indeed. Only when you are in need you can discover who your friend is. If you find none, that is the sad situation of human affairs. Friends can become enemies; but enemies are unlikely to become friends. The idea of demanding people to be your friend or else you consider him your enemy is the silliest and senseless idea. Friendship cannot be bought or forced. Friendship is not made but recognized and maintained by mutual commitment. When loyalty is broken, friendship is automatically dissolved. White supremacists practice the wicked philosophy of “if not a friend it must be an enemy.” Western powers have executed this hostile attitude and act of aggression and division by demarcating the world in order to gain world domination. Supremacists demand friends and seek enemies to justify their existence – that is why they have committed so much evil in the world. In human terms, you do not need to put people into two camps: friends or enemies. In divine terms, if you are not a believer of Christ, you are an unbeliever. If you are a lover of the world, you are an enemy of God. Only God deals in absolute terms, humans should not play God.
62. The poor and the foolish.
This is a startling fact about human beings: The poor know that they are poor, but the foolish do not know they are foolish. The ignorant do not know they are ignorant. There are countless examples to support the thesis. For one, an ignorant Chinese said the Federal Express belongs to the United States government; he knew that because he had been to America. It is futile and useless to argue with people who pretend to know what they do not know at all. The foolish says, death is the end of everything; not knowing there is judgment after death, and Hell is prepared for the unbelievers and the wicked.
63. Linear Thinking.
Human is a creature of habit. Good habits may help you do well. Bad habits may enslave and ruin you. Most people may not have thought about the blunders of linear thinking because they are not conscious of its consequences. To have the same frame of reference, it is necessary to define what linear thinking is. Linear thinking is a habitual, rigid, simplistic and straight-line thinking. It compels itself to move forward even there is something blocking the way. It travels the same way as a person drives to work following the same route everyday. This is an illustration of the futility and failure of linear thinking. A friend of ours asked to buy a bottle of French Champaign for her. I went to a middle class supermarket to buy a certain item. I left and went to an upper class supermarket to look for various brands of Champaign. Then I suddenly realized to compare prices with a middle class supermarket, and so I went again to the middle class supermarket for Champaign. Finally after gathering price data from both the upper class and middle class supermarkets, it dawned on me that I should check on a French supermarket. In the French supermarket, I found various brands and prices of Champaign. That was a very productive result. Then it dawned on me, no bottle of whatever liquid is allowed to be brought on an airplane. To be shipped there is no guarantee of not broken bottle. The whole endeavor came to nothing, all I had to do is to advice our friend to go to a French supermarket in her city to get a bottle of her choice and we will pay for it. The defect of linear thinking is to do one thing at a time without considering the whole process and constraint and finding out the easiest and simplest way of achieving a goal. Had I known a bottle of Champaign would not be allowed to carry into an airplane, the whole shopping trips would not be necessary. Time and efforts would have been saved and not wasted. What a fuss! Many a time stop and think whether what you do is a profitable thing. You need a road map (real or imaginary) in your mind before you proceed to undertake a project big or small. Many successful people in history do not make blunders of linear thinking. They have flexible thinking, circular thinking, circumventing thinking, humbling down thinking, and zigzag thinking which is adaptive thinking to the circumstances. Let us examine the lives of three great men and one great woman who made great decisions that changed their lives for eternity.
I. Abraham.
Abraham was not a linear thinker. Once God told him to leave town and go to a place that he did not know. Abraham did what God had spoken.
Gen 17:23-24 ,“Then Abraham took Ishmael his son, and all the servants who were born in his house and all who were bought with his money, every male among the men of Abraham’s household, and circumcised the flesh of their foreskin in the very same day, as God had said to him. Now Abraham was ninety-nine years old when he was circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin.”
Note: Abraham was the man who believed and obeyed whatever God required of him. Abraham was not a linear thinker, he knew he must adapt to the command of God. Even he was 99 years old, he did something new by circumcision. Abraham thought to do what God said to him. Now this is the same path every Christian must take. When you discard your old ways and follow Christ, it is a new beginning. Abraham was unlike many who could not change their way of thinking and lifestyle even when they are young.
Gen 18:19, “For I have chosen him, so that he may command his children and his household after him to keep the way of the LORD by doing righteousness and justice, so that the LORD may bring upon Abraham what He has spoken about him.”
Note: Abraham did as God had commanded him. Furthermore, Abraham commanded his children and descendants to keep the way of the Lord by doing righteousness and justice. The way of the Lord is the way of righteousness and justice. Western powers claim to be Christian nations, in the last 300 years or more, they did just the opposite of righteousness and justice. Western powers under imperialism, colonialism, capitalism, militarism and hegemonism have done great evil in the world.
II. Ruth.
Ruth was one of the most remarkable women ever lived in history although she came from a humble origin. There was a famine in the land of Judah, and a certain man called Elimelech, and his wife, Naomi of Bethlehem went to sojourn in the land of Moab with their two sons Mahlon and Chilion. Elimelech died. His two sons took for themselves Moabite women as wives; the name of the one was Orpah and the name of the other Ruth. And they lived there about ten years. Then both Mahlon and Chilion also died, and Naomi was bereft of her two children and her husband. Naomi was to return to the land of Judah.
Rth 1:8 ,“And Naomi said to her two daughters-in-law: Go, return each of you to her mother’s house. May the LORD deal kindly with you as you have dealt with the dead and with me.” They kissed each other goodbye and lifted up their voices and wept. Here something unusual happened: Orpah had gone back to her people and her gods; but Ruth clung to Naomi. Ruth did not do the linear (usual）thing as most daughters-in-law would do.
Rth 1:16-18 ，“But Ruth said : Do not urge me to leave you or turn back from following you; for where you go, I will go, and where you lodge, I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God. Where you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. Thus may the LORD do to me, and worse, if anything but death parts you and me. When she saw that she was determined to go with her, she said no more to her.”
Note: Ruth said some of the most beautiful and moving things ever said. Only a beautiful and noble soul could have said what Ruth said. It required determination to abandon linear thinking and do the unusual.
Rth 2:11-13 ,“Boaz replied to her: All that you have done for your mother-in-law after the death of your husband has been fully reported to me, and how you left your father and your mother and the land of your birth, and came to a people that you did not previously know. May the LORD reward your work, and your wages be full from the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to seek refuge. Then she said:
I have found favor in your sight, my lord, for you have comforted me and indeed have spoken kindly to your maidservant, though I am not like one of your maidservants.”
Note: Virtue is like fragrance you cannot miss. The beauty and virtue of Ruth spread like sweet smell. Those who come and seek refuge under the wings of God are blessed. It is very rare to find beauty and humility in one person. Boaz with all his wealth and honor was blessed and enriched even more by finding Ruth, a woman of excellence, as his wife. If there were a marriage made in heaven, this was it. The women were right in saying to Naomi: “…for your daughter-in-law, who loves you and is better to you than seven sons.” According to the genealogy: Boas begot Obed, Obed begot Jesse, and Jesse begot David.
III. David.
1Sa 22:3 , “And David went from there to Mizpah of Moab; and he said to the king of Moab: Please let my father and my mother come and stay with you until I know what God will do for me.”
Note: When David was chased by King Saul, he made a startling statement that expounds the truth about the blunder of linear thinking. David knew he had to take care of his parents even in most difficult circumstances. David would not run ahead of God, he followed God’s plan. The most important thing to know is what God will do for you, not what you will do for God. What you fancy to do with your life may not be what God wants you to do as a lifework. Blessed is the man who knows what God will do for him and what God wants him to do. David was tending his father’s flock at Bethlehem. David left the flock with a keeper and took the supplies to the camp of his brothers and went as Jesse his father had commanded him. When all the men of Israel saw the Philistine named Goliath, they fled from him and were greatly afraid. Unlike other young shepherds who would deliver the food supplies and went home, David heard the war cry and asked a question.
1Sa 17:26 ,“Then David spoke to the men who were standing by him, saying: What will be done for the man who kills this Philistine and takes away the reproach from Israel? For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should taunt the armies of the living God?” When you are in a crisis, blessed are you if you know how to raise the right question. David’s question angered his oldest brother. The siblings and relatives may often misunderstand or misjudge a man of God. Never would people think a young shepherd boy could kill both the lion and the bear and even the giant Goliath.
1Sa 17:37 ,“And David said: The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine. And Saul said to David: Go, and may the LORD be with you.” And the rest was history. So David could say,
Psa 23:4 ,“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
IV. Paul.
Act 8:1-2 ,“Saul was in hearty agreement with putting him to death. And on that day a great persecution began against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. Some devout men buried Stephen, and made loud lamentation over him.”
Note: Paul was Saul who persecuted the church and attacked Christians. Later Saul became Paul, the most famous of the apostles and wrote most books of the New Testament, the 14 Pauline epistles – from Romans to Hebrews. On the road to Damascus, and suddenly a light from Heaven flashed around Saul.
Act 9:4-6 ,“And he fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him: Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me? And he said: Who are You, Lord? And He said: I am Jesus whom you are persecuting, but get up and enter the city, and it will be told you what you must do.”
Act 22:6-10, “But it happened that as I was on my way, approaching Damascus about noontime, a very bright light suddenly flashed from Heaven all around me, and I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to me: Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me? And I answered: Who are You, Lord? And He said to me: I am Jesus the Nazarene, whom you are persecuting. And those who were with me saw the light, to be sure, but did not understand the voice of the One who was speaking to me. And I said: What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said to me: Get up and go on into Damascus, and there you will be told of all that has been appointed for you to do.”
Note: After meeting the Lord, Saul changed into Paul, not only abandoning the linear thinking; he made a 360° change, and how much he would suffer for Jesus name’s sake. Anyone who had seen the Lord could not be the same. Whoever is called by the Lord will be told what he must do.
Act 18:5 ,“But when Silas and Timothy came down from Macedonia, Paul began devoting himself completely to the word, solemnly testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ.”
Note: The servant of Christ must devote himself completely to the Word of God and solemnly testify that Jesus Christ is the Lord and Savior.
Act 23:1, “Paul, looking intently at the Council, said: Brethren, I have lived my life with a perfectly good conscience before God up to this day.”
Note: This is the way every servant of Christ must live: Live with a perfectly good conscience before God. Those who love money, power and sex do not have a good conscience.
2Ti 1:12 ,“For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day.”
Note: This is the perfect perspective of a servant of Christ and a believer. Christ is able to save you and me to the end.
2Ti 4:7-8 , “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.”
Note: The whole task of a Christian life and ministry is to fight the good fight, finish the course, and keep the faith. This is not the usual life of an unbeliever. How many can say like Paul, “I have … I have … I have… That is the difference between a success and a failure.
64. How to save yourself.
The subject does not relate to how to save yourself from sin and eternal damnation in hell. No one can save himself from sin and penalty of sin. That is only what Jesus Christ can do for you.
Jhn 8:24 ,“Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for unless you believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.” Note: Unless you believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God whom God sent to save the world and repent of your sins, you will die in your sins. No religion and no other man can save you from your sins. How to prove it?
As Jesus says, you will die in your sins. The wages of sin is death. All will die because all have sinned. If you have not sinned, you will not die. But you can save yourself from many terrible things. Above all, you can save yourself from yourself. To save yourself from yourself, you have to know yourself. The first prerequisite to know yourself is to have a full realization of your own ignorance, stupidity, inadequacy, incompetency, defect, fault, flaw, shortcomings and weaknesses. You can be your own greatest friend or greatest enemy. If you do something bad for yourself, you are your own greatest enemy. If you do something good for yourself, you are your own greatest friend.
(A). Ignorance.
Everyone is ignorant in the things they do not know. There are infinite things that you and I do not know. Even an arrogant scientist does not know when he is going to die. A willingness to learn and a pursuit of knowledge will reduce your ignorance. I have known people who thought something must be wrong simply because they did not know it. Just like a high school student thought the Einstein’s formula of E=mc² was wrong because he could not understand it. When I was a kid I was fascinated by the Book of Proverbs; try the Wisdom of Solomon it might enlighten you in human affairs. I told my students, everyone was born stupid (except Jesus who was God and became Man), that is why you need a college education.
(B). Bad Temper.
Try to be reasonable, for a reasonable man does not easily lose his senses or lose his temper. When things go wrong, you could be the blame. If you are right, you have no reason to get angry. If you are wrong, you have no right to get angry. If your subordinate makes a blunder, it could be you failed to give good instruction or properly train your worker. The team fails it may be you are a poor manager. If you cannot control your temper, it is like a car losing the brake. A hot-tempered person destroys himself and others. To save yourself from bad temper is vital in saving yourself from yourself.
(C). Laziness.
I am not sure whether some people were born diligent like an eager beaver or not. I know everyone can get lazy. Laziness is advanced by bad habits. You can develop a bad habit of getting up late, not finishing what you do, not doing your homework or household work, etc. Lazy people lack self-discipline and usually unmotivated. Study the ants; if you are lazy, you are no better than an ant. A responsible person must do what he must do, that is why no responsible people can be lazy. There is no hope for lazybones, not even in this world. The choice is yours.
(D). Dirtiness.
A person is dirty could be influenced by his culture and background or ignorance. There are primitive people who do not brush their teeth. There are poor people who have no facility to take a bath. There is a correlation between the level of a civilization and the condition of a toilet. The higher the civilization, the cleaner the toilet. The lower the civilization, the dirtier the toilet. Those who smoke, spit, and litter have uncivilized customs or habits. A man who has self-respect cannot be dirty.
(E). Arrogance.
People who are arrogant overestimate themselves with a sense of superiority and have a wrong world view like white supremacists who want to dominate the world. Arrogance is also a spiritual sickness that ruined Lucifer the angel who turned into the devil. Learn humility by practice. Inform yourself no one is humble enough. If you think you are humble enough, you are not humble at all. Remember what the Bible says,
Pro 16:18 , “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before stumbling.” Self-indulgence is the path to self-destruction. Imperialists, hegemonists, militarists, capitalists, terrorists, dictators and oppressors are all arrogant people who have done great evil in the world. All evil empires have fallen and will fall. In 2020 you witnessed the arrogance of a leader on world stage that you had never seen before. All supremacists are arrogant, whether white or black.
(F). Impatience.
People who are impatient have character flaws. Impatient people are either childish or immature. The plant takes time to grow; you cannot make it grow by pulling. Rome is not built in a day. Almost anything worthwhile takes time to develop or achieve. One man told me it took him 10 years to earn his B.A. degree.
(G). Poverty.
The world is not fair; some people were born rich, and most were born poor. By hard work and education, most people can lift themselves out of poverty. When you are educated, you have skills. When you have knowledge and skills, you are employable. When you are employed, you receive wages and at least you are no longer poor. I am aware how capitalists oppress workers by making them slave labors with low wages. I told my students, if you have the ability to think, speak and write – no matter in what life situation and social circumstance, you will do well. America is a racist society with all sorts of discrimination and dominated by white people while blacks enjoy Affirmative Action with special rights and treatments. If you have knowledge and skills, although you cannot reach the top with your potential, at least you would not be poor. However, America has changed structurally and speedily since the golden days of President Richard Nixon that today higher education becomes unaffordable and thus chances of social mobility become less and less. A good government must provide educational opportunities and decent employment for all its citizens. What I am suggesting here is what you can do for yourself, not what you can do to change the government or system of government.
(H). Failure.
Almost any ordinary person can have an ordinary success. An ordinary person must not try to achieve an extraordinary success. If you are not good in mathematics, do not aspire to be a mathematician. If you cannot draw, do not dream of becoming a great master like Leonardo da Vinci or Rembrandt. If you are not specially gifted, it is no use of trying to be a great writer or thinker. Do not harbor an unholy ambition. It is bad to become the richest man in the world by monopoly and predatory practices; even the monetary success is a dismal moral failure. I know a man who was born poor in a log cabin. He wanted to be a lawyer. By self-study he succeeded to become a lawyer. He wanted to serve the people, and he got elected to the Congress. Eventually he became the president of the United States – the greatest president of the United States. This illustrates by determination a person can lift himself up and made himself somebody. However, not everything you aspire can be achieved. It is romantic to try the impossible dream; in practice what is impossible for man is never possible. The man who preached the probability gospel and prosperity gospel, his cathedral filed for bankruptcy and was sold. Only with God nothing is impossible and everything is possible. Don’t try to imitate the eagle to fly without wings.
(I). Extremism.
An extreme man is a product of unbalanced and immoral action, incorrect perception and erroneous conception. That was why Goldwater failed. That was why Hitler failed. The best thing in life is to go the right path, without turning to the right or turning to the left. The golden mean is to avoid excess or insufficiency. Too much is just as bad as too little. Too generous is as bad as too selfish. Too much sweet turns sour. Too much light blinds the eye. Blessed is the man who knows what is enough is enough.
65. No greater joy.
There is no greater joy than marrying the girl you love and the girl who loves you.
66. Useless life.
A useless life is an early death. The older I grow, the more useless people I have met.
67. No greater coward.
There is no greater coward than those who oppress the weak.
68. American Magic Mirror
America has invented a distorted magic mirror: when American leaders and politicians clearly see themselves busy solely AGGRESSIVE, OPPRESSIVE, DECEPTIVE, PROVOCATIVE, ABUSIVE, AND DESTRUCTIVE … It has a perverted view and it automatically changes the scene and so they call it CHINA. They make many false charges against China and Russia. And without conscience those liars charge that China has centralized politics and aggressive foreign policy, and China’s diplomats harangue other countries, and Beijing’s international aggression without the slightest evidence. Whatever evil deeds the children of the devil have done, they on purpose blame on China. As long as American and European leaders and politicians have perverted and depraved views of Russia and China, there cannot be peace in the world. It takes two sides to make peace. China and Russia practice multilateralism, and the peoples have the freedom to choose.
69. Reality and dream.
What cannot be realized in life I seek in my dream.
70. Singing myself.
A worldly man may say, “I celebrate myself, and sing myself.” But a humble Christian will always declare, Psa 13:6, “I will sing to the LORD, because He has looked after me.”
71. Thank God, I was not born white.
Thank God, I was not born white; otherwise I would be encumbered by the historical crimes and sins of white ancestors manifested in imperialism, colonialism and capitalism; enslaved by the burden OF knowing the white has taking advantage of other races; slanted by the worldview of racial superiority; and humiliated by the practice of phony Christianity. Being Chinese is neither black nor white; the golden mean of the human race, with freedom to seek the truth in Jesus Christ and in cultivating and expressing the spiritual values of humanity.
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72. Worldly vs. Spiritual.
The difference between a worldly man and a spiritual man is this: the worldly man is self-centered, while the self of a spiritual man is subject to Christ.
73. No peace in the world.
There is no peace in the world. You cannot find peace inside you. You may have peace in Christ for sure. The Prince of peace says, Jhn 16:33, “These things I have spoken to you so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.”
It is strange but it is true, the West does not want peace that is it is engaging in wars all over the world.
74. Migrant’s right.
There is no such a thing called Migrant’s Right, it was invented by facetious Western mainstream media. Do you think the underdeveloped nations which cannot support its overpopulation have the right to expect other nations to feed and house and clothe their populations? Do you believe people who cannot support themselves have the right to produce so many children they cannot support? Do you believe the peoples of underdeveloped nations have the right to migrate to nations of affluence in seeking better lives? Do you believe the illegal migrants of poor nations have the right to force other better self-supporting nations to accept them to feed, house and clothe them? Do you really believe a sovereign nation cannot refuse and reject the illegal migrants at the borders? Do you believe a nation is so stupid to take care of the unwanted children of illegal migrants dropped over the fence? Do you really believe the illegal migrants can dictate the immigration policy of a sovereign state? Strangest things, the United States does not deport 60 million illegal aliens already in America. On top of it, the government received thousands and thousands of unwanted children of illegal aliens who dropped their children over the fence thinking America will take care of them.
75. Thought is not free.
William Shakespeare is quoted to have said: “Thought is free.” No, thought is not free. Thinking has consequences. God will judge a man by his word, deed, and thought. Jesus says, Mat 15:19, “For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murders, acts of adultery, other immoral sexual acts, thefts, false testimonies, and slanderous statements.” Sinful thoughts are not free. Once a wicked philosopher thought and said, “God is dead.” The philosopher was long dead, but his thought harmed not a few simple-minded. I agree with Thomas Carlyle: “Thought is the parent of the deed.” As a man thinks, so is he. If Shakespeare meant that “A man is free to do his own thinking, not enslaved by the thought of a dictator.” This is correct. However, even today many are influenced by thoughts of the wicked. God is true, holy, righteous, almighty and eternal. God sits in His throne in Heaven and is not affected by the thought of any man, any event, any time.
76. The universe is not within you.
Someone said, “Everything in the universe is within you. Ask all from yourself.” This person had a Satanic thought, overestimated himself. The universe is universe, yourself is yourself. Scientists discover recently that the universe is expanding. The ancient prophets knew long ago that God was expanding the universe. Are you expanding like a little frog? What is within you is not good. The little frog under the well thinks the universe is only that big.
77. False positive thoughts.
A false preacher said, “The person who sends out positive thoughts activates the world around him positively and draws back to himself positive results.” The false preacher overvalued his thoughts and exaggerated his self-importance. The founder of Crystal Cathedral was also a preacher of positive thinking, but a tons of his positive thoughts cannot cancel their financial debts or bring positive results. Consequently Crystal Cathedral was declared bankruptcy and sold to the Roman Catholic Church for many millions of dollars. The teachings of the founder of Crystal Cathedral were discredited for good.
78. Thoughts link to destiny.
Lao Tzi was not a Christian, but his thoughts are not contrary to the mind of Christ. Lao Tzi said, “ Watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become actions. Watch your actions; they become habits. Watch your habits; they become character. Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.” For Jesus says, Luk 6:39, “And He also spoke a parable to them: “A blind man cannot guide a blind man, can he? Will they not both fall into a pit?” I also concur with John Locke: “I have always thought the actions of men the best interpreters of their thoughts.” As a man thinks, so is he.
79. Yourself and wisdom.
Aristotle said, “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” This statement is a classical representation of a worldly man, self-centered. This is quite contrary to the Biblical teaching, Pro 9:10, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Aristotle, at best was smart in human standard, but not a spiritual man who had the knowledge of God. The wisdom of Aristotle was human wisdom, not sound wisdom, only wisdom of the world, fleshly wisdom. The most important knowledge is the knowledge of God. Many philosophers were wrong because they did not have the knowledge of God.
1Co 3:19, “For the wisdom of this world is foolishness before God. For it is written, “He is THE ONE WHO CATCHES THE WISE IN THEIR CRAFTINESS.”
80. Two-state proposal.
Two-state proposal is not two-state solution. In the beginning was Israel and the Jewish people; there was no Palestine or Palestinian or Hamas. Some 4,000 years God gave the Promised Land to Abraham and his descendants. The Jews rebelled against God and they were scattered all over the world. During the colonial period the British Empire ruled over the Holy Land. The illegal Arabs moved in and occupied the land without payment. Later it was called Palestine. In actuality Palestine was an illegal legacy of the British empire. The leaders of United Kingdom do not have moral character and courage to come out and inform the Palestinians the truth that they do not have the right of resettlement. Palestinians and Hamas do not have the parcel and portion of the Jewish land. They should all withdraw or evicted by force from the State of Israel. Palestinians are actually Arabs, they can seek statehood or residency at the neighboring Arab states. The United Nations or any agency or country do not have the authority to give away the Promised Land. Jerusalem is forever the capital of the great king David. Although Israel is surrounded by hostile Arab states, God will fight for Jerusalem. It is wise for Palestinians and Hamas to get out of all Jewish land in peace. Do not make claim to what does not belong to you, and do not become an enemy of God. Palestinians and Hamas would better get out of the Jewish land and Jerusalem in peace rather than to be evicted by force. No one, not even the United Nations, has authority to give the Jewish land to Palestinians, Arabs and Hamas. They must get out the Promised Land the sooner the better. Palestinians, Arabs and Hamas do not own one inch of Jewish land, they now occupied illegally and must at once leave the Promised Land.
81. Western revisionist views of history.
Western scholars (sadly some claimed to be Christians) yet they consistently and persistently expressed biased views of the world history and events that took place completely due to European and American imperialism, colonialism and capitalism which do not fit the facts. Although not like the Japanese who brazenly denied its war crimes, genocide, sex slavery, slave labor, unaccountable atrocities and brutalities which they committed largely and mostly in China; yet European and American scholars tend to harbor revisionist views of history to beautify their war crimes and sins committed against the peoples of the world by European and American imperialists and supremacists. The thing most upsetting is the fact they used Christianity as a cover for their most darkest and ugliest deeds of evil. By doing so, knowingly or unknowingly, they discredited Christianity and dishonored the Lord Jesus Christ. This crookedness reminds me of a white African missionary, a homosexual, who told me, the blacks in Africa were like Alamakites in the Promised Land and they deserved to be destroyed. White supremacists always harbor this destructive views and view themselves as superior to other races.
82. Deception.
I agree with what Rene Descartes said, “Everything that I accepted as being true up to now I acquired from the sense or through the senses. However, I have occasionally found that they deceive me, and it is prudent never to trust those who have deceived us, even if only once. “ God is true. God has never deceived me. God has never deceived anyone. God is absolutely trustworthy. I have found humanity disappointing.
83. Self-deception.
To think more highly or to hold yourself in high esteem than you should is self-deception. Self-deception inevitably leads to self-destruction.
84. Responsibility.
Man is responsible for everything he does, that is responsibility, not freedom. You are free to do right and good. No man is free to do wrong and evil. It does not matter what is your race or color, an immoral person is a irresponsible person.
85. What man knows.
In comparison to what God knows, all a man knows is nothing; practically nothing. For that reason, even what a scientist knows is not absolute, complete, ultimate or infallible.
86. Wrestling or rest.
A Christian does not wrestle in the face of death, because his life is with Christ hidden in God. A Christian does not wrestle with uncertainty, because he finds peace in Christ. A Christian does not wrestle with adversity, he knows the grace of God is sufficient.
87. Real knowledge. Confucius was right, “Real knowledge is to know the extent of one’s ignorance.” But Confucius did not know, the knowledge of the world is passing away. The real knowledge is the knowledge of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ which will never pass away. 88. Small things. Confucius was right, “The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.” There is an old Scottish proverb, “Many mickles make a muckle.” Many little things add up to a big thing. Do not despise small things. The Bible says, Pro 30:24-27, “Four things are small on the earth, But they are exceedingly wise: The ants are not a strong people, But they prepare their food in the summer; The rock hyraxes are not a mighty people, Yet they make their houses in the rocks; The locusts have no king, Yet all of them go out in ranks; The lizard you may grasp with the hands, Yet it is in kings’ palaces.”
89. Going far.
Someone said, “Always go too far, because that’s where you’ll find the truth.” Wrong. The Bible says, Pro 14:12, “There is a way which seems right to a person, but its end is the way of death.” The far end of a false religion is death, not the truth. The far end of unbelief and un-repentance is death, not the truth. The far end of sin is death, die in your sin. You can find the truth only in Jesus Christ no matter how far you go.
90. Living rightly.
Socrates was right when he said, “It is not living that matters, but living rightly.” If you lie, kill, and rob; your life does not matter. If you use drugs, engage in sexual immorality, your life does not matter. If you are lazy, unproductive and live on welfare, your life does not matter. If commit a riot and loot, your life does not matter. If you have sex with a woman you do not love and produce a child both of you cannot support, your life does not matter. If you are a pimp or a prostitute, your life does not matter. If you discriminate other races and physically attack or abuse people, your life does not matter. If you are guilty of crime and become a convict in jail, your life does not matter. If you are a barbarian and make people afraid of you, your life does not matter. If you never contribute to society, just a liability, your life does not matter. If you are a terrorist, your life does not matter. The person who lives wrong, his life does not matter.
91. False words.
Socrates was right, “False words are not only evil in themselves, but they infect the soul with evil.” I wonder how could Western leaders and politicians habitually and customarily speak false words about many things, making false statements and false charges against China and Russia and conduct themselves in a false way. White supremacists on purpose in their greed to exploit the world with false words. Whenever they want to do evil, they use false words to cover up their real intention.
92. God causes all things to work together for good.
Rom 8:28, “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”
Note: According to this Scripture, we know that God causes all things to work together. No one knows how many are children of God alive today. Say one billion. God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, and to those who are called according to His purpose. No one knows how marvelous and wonderful God causes all things to work together it is due to His Omnipotence and Omniscience and divine providence. Man is so helpless and powerless, cannot even make a few things to work together. No one can control time and events. My journey of life is not finished yet, so I do not know what and how God causes all things to work together for my good. Of course I also do not know at all how and what God causes all things to work together for my dear ones. But Jesus tells us that God has been working. It is wonderful to know that my Heavenly Father is working to cause all things work together for my good.
93. Jesus never turns a trick The children of the devil are unable to face the power of God, and the historical fact that Jesus Christ
Mat 4:23-25, “Jesus was going about in all of Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom, and healing every disease and every sickness among the people. And the news about Him spread throughout Syria; and they brought to Him all who were ill, those suffering with various diseases and severe pain, demon-possessed, people with epilepsy, and people who were paralyzed; and He healed them. Large crowds followed Him from Galilee and the Decapolis, and Jerusalem, and Judea, and from beyond the Jordan.”
So they can verbally assault by saying Jesus turns a trick. It was easy if there is only one or two incidents of healing. The evidence is too overwhelming and they were all witnessed by large crowds who followed Jesus everywhere, from all Galilee and Decapolis, and Jerusalem, and Judea, and from beyond the Jordan; the news about Jesus even reached and spread throughout Syria. There were just too many firsthand eyewitnesses. Take healing every sickness and disease among the people. Severe pain, demon-possessed, people with epilepsy, and people who were paralyzed are not private matters. I had kidney stone before and can testify the severe pain was really unbearable. I met a woman who had the same problem at the hospital. I asked her which was worse, birth pain or kidney stone pain. She replied definitely, kidney stone pain. How can any unbeliever refuse the public fact that Jesus went about in so may places teaching, healing and performing mighty miracles.
The first miracle took place at a wedding in Cana of Galilee (John Chapter 2). The servants filled up six stone waterpots with water to the brim. “Now when the headwaiter tasted the water which had become wine, and did not know where it came from (but the servants who had drawn the water knew), the headwaiter *called the groom.” The servants knew the water which had become wine. Not only that the wine was the good wine. This was the beginning of His miracles Jesus did in Cana of Galilee, and revealed His glory; and His disciples believed in Him. This was no trick because the servants and the disciples believed in Jesus.
This is the historical statement that summed up the life of Jesus on earth. Luk 24:19, “And He said to them, “What sort of things?” And they said to Him, “Those about Jesus the Nazarene, who proved to be a prophet mighty in deed and word in the sight of God and all the people.” The deed and word of Jesus were seen and heard by all the people.
Another incident, the Death and Resurrection of Lazarus also reinforces the historical truth about Jesus public ministry. See John Chapters 11-12. Lazarus was already dead 4 days in the tomb. When Jesus cried out with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” Out came the man who had died, bound hand and foot with wrappings, and his face was wrapped around with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Unbind him, and let him go.” Many of the Jews who came to Mary, and saw what Jesus had done, believed in Him. That was no trick.
The chief priest and the Pharisees did not like what Jesus had done, so they convened a council meeting what they must do in regard to the fact that Jesus was performing many miracles. The problem disturbed them most, if they let Jesus going on like this, all the people would believe in Him. They planned together to kill Jesus. They had given orders that if anyone knew where Jesus was, he was to report it, so that they might arrest Him. They made Jesus a dinner at Bethany. Jhn 12:9-11, “The large crowd of the Jews then learned that He was there; and they came, not on account of Jesus only, but so that they might also see Lazarus, whom He raised from the dead.
But the chief priests planned to put Lazarus to death also because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and were believing in Jesus.” The Chief priest not only planned to kill Jesus because He Was the Performer of miracles, they planned to put Lazarus to death because he was a life witness
94. Israel vs. Hamas
Israel has existed since Abraham. Who is Hamas you need to know. Knowing who Palestinians and Hamas are, it is better to deal with the problem or issue.
According to https://www.britannica.com/topic/Hamas#:~:text=Hamas%2C%20also%20spelled%20%E1%B8%A4am%C4%81s%2C%20acronym%20of%20%E1%B8%A4arakat%20alMuq%C4%81wamah,of%20an%20independent%20Islamic%20state%20in%20historical%20Palestine.
“Hamas,… English Islamic Resistance Movement, militant Palestinian nationalist and Islamist movement in the West Bank and Gaza Strip that is dedicated to the establishment of an independent Islamic state in historical Palestine. Founded in 1987, Hamas opposed the secular approach of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and rejected attempts to cede any part of Palestine.
Hamas (which also is an Arabic word meaning “zeal”) was established by members of the Muslim Brotherhood and religious factions of the PLO, and the new organization quickly acquired a broad following. In its 1988 charter, Hamas maintained that Palestine is an Islamic homeland that can never be surrendered to non-Muslims and that waging holy war to wrest control of Palestine from Israel is a religious duty for Palestinian Muslims. This position brought it into conflict with the PLO, which in 1988 recognized Israel’s right to exist.
Jordan expelled Hamas leaders from Amman in 1999, accusing them of having used their Jordanian offices as a command post for military activities in the West Bank and Gaza.”
According to https://www.camera.org/article/the-facts-about-hamas/
“Hamas (Islamic Resistance Movement) is considered a terrorist organization by much of the non-Arab international community including Israel, the U.S., Canada, Japan, the U.K., Australia and the European Union. Its declared goal is to destroy the Jewish state and replace it with an Islamic one. Indeed, its enmity is directed not only toward Israel but toward Jews, in general. ”
Hamas are militant Palestinians who are also Arab Muslims. In the beginning there was Israel and the Jewish people. There were not Palestine, Palestinians or Arabs or Hamas. Some 4,000 years ago God gave the Promised Land to Abraham and his descendants. The Jewish people rebelled against God and they were scattered all over the world. During the colonial rule, the British empire created Palestine; illegal Arabs moved in and occupied the Holy Land without payment. When the state of Israel was reestablished, all Arabs and Palestinians should have been evicted in the first place. The conflict between Israel and Palestinians or Hamas is an illegal legacy of the British empire. The leaders of the United Kingdom have no moral character and courage to come out and inform Palestinians and Hamas and Arabs that they have no legal right of resettlement. All the Holy Land, part and parcel and portion belongs to the Jews only. Israel is God’s holy nation, and the Jews are God’s chosen people. Israel cannot mix with other states or peoples. The two-states proposal is not the two-sates solution. The United Nations and any organization do not have authority to give the Jewish land to Palestinians or Hamas or Arabs. Palestinians and Hamas have no claim to the Holy Land. It is foolish and futile to make false claim and fight for something that does not belong to you.
Besides Islam is not compatible with Judaism or Christianity. Palestinians are actually Arabs, they can seek statehood or residency in neighboring Arab states. The conflict between Israel and Palestinians and Hamas is unnecessary. The war that causes loss of lives on either side is unnecessary. It is wrong and futile to fight for what it does not belong to you. Jerusalem is forever the capital of the great king David. God is the Protector of Israel and God will fight for Jerusalem. So it is wise for Palestinians and Hamas to withdraw from the Promised Land (State of Israel today) in peace or they will have to be evicted by force.
95. Whether or not democracy will long endure
Almost all patriotic Americans admit, Democracy is in trouble in America. I contend that America has never been practicing the true democracy from the beginning. How do you know? The current US Constitution tells the sad fact. The US Constitution has not vested the national sovereignty in the hands of American citizens. The national referendum has never been used to express the will and wishes of the majority of American citizens. All American presidents and politicians have never tried to revise the US Constitution to vest the sovereignty in the hands of American citizens. The means of national referendum has never been used to decide and determine the national course of direction, the nature of the Republic, the most important issues and matters confronting America. The reason is obvious because the American president and politicians want to have the sovereign power in themselves. To save America, the only way is to vest the Constitutional sovereignty right in the hands of American citizens. When the majority of American citizens (i.e. 51%) can be empowered to decide any issue or problem. For example, the U.S. president or any national official, can be removed if 51 percent of American citizens cast a no confidence vote in the president. It does not have to utilize the useless and ineffective impeachment process. A president does not need to commit any crime, if only 51% of American voters have no confidence in him, the president is automatically removed. So is the vice president, the supreme court justice, any high ranking official can be removed by the national referendum. America cannot go to war without the majority support of American citizens expressed in a national referendum. There are many pressing problems or vital issues can be resolved through a national referendum. The national referendum is the true democracy in action. The people sovereignty is the ultimate power higher than presidential power and congregational power. The instrument of national referendum keeps all elected and appointed officials on their duties and responsibilities. They do not need to commit a big crime, incompetency alone is sufficient to remove any official by the will of the people. As regards the important national matters of budget, national debt, foreign policy, war and peace, defense, trade, climate, environment, education, healthcare, social security, official salaries and pensions, infrastructure, economy, national language, immigration, nuclear weapons, etc., let the American citizens practice truth, integrity, justice, and righteousness.
It is sad but true, the American model of democracy is not the true democracy. Democracy by definition is majority rule. America does not vest constitutional sovereign right in American citizens. Americans cannot exercise national referendum to decide national policies and direction. Only 1 percent of Americans rule over the 99 percent and own most of the wealth.
96. Reading Great Books
I concur with Descartes, “-Reading great books is like a conversation with the best minds of past centuries.” Not all books are great. There are four types of book. Those that indulge you are bad, such as pornography and trash novel. Those that inform you are useful, such as reference books. Those that instruct you are good. When I was a boy, Proverbs of Solomon was very instructive to me. With some exception, I think The Imitation of Christ by à Kempis Thomas is a very instructive book. For all believers, I recommend The Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan without any reservation. There is no book like the Holy Bible which can inform you, instruct you, and above all inspire you.
2Ti 3:15-17, “and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and beneficial for teaching, for rebuke, for correction, for training in righteousness so that the man or woman of God may be fully capable, equipped for every good work.”
I was lucky to have known the Sacred Writings from childhood. I was young and now I am old. I have studied not a little philosophy and theology. I want you to know like Martin Luther I believe in Sola Scriptura which means by scripture alone. The books that inspire you are great books. You cannot compare human wisdom at best with the Word of God. Human words at best will pass away. The Word of God is eternal and will never pass away. Awake to the great truth, the Words of Jesus will never pass away. May I suggest you start reading the Gospel of John.
97. Happiness and life.
Aristotle said, “Happiness is the meaning and purpose of life, the goal and end of human existence.” The statement is representative of the best human and worldly wisdom. For a spiritual man, happiness is not the meaning and purpose of life. I was young, and I used to think happiness is the meaning and purpose of life. Jesus Christ enlighten me when He says, Jhn 6:38, “For I have come down from Heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.” Do you think it is happiness to come down to the earth from Heaven? Jesus said He had come down from Heaven, not to do His own will, but the will of Him who sent Him. This is most important. The goal and end of human existence is not happiness. To have happiness and meaning and purpose of life, you need to be sent on a life mission. Human existence must be justified by the undertaking one is sent to do. The Scripture says, Heb 10:7, “THEN I SAID, ‘BEHOLD, I HAVE COME (IT IS WRITTEN OF ME IN THE SCROLL OF THE BOOK) TO DO YOUR WILL, O GOD.’” The will of God for His Son does not look or sound happiness. Phl 2:8, “And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death: death on a cross.” Luk 15:6,“And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, because I have found my sheep that was lost!’” Luk 19:10, “For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.” On the cross, Jesus last word was triumphant, Jhn 19:30, “Therefore when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.” Jesus had finished the work He was sent to do.
In following the steps of Jesus, Paul rejoiced in sufferings for the sake of Christ. Have you ever heard anybody singing in jail at midnight? Act 16:25, “Now about midnight Paul and Silas were praying singing hymns of praise to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.” You also must know that Paul had already suffered and had been treated abusively in Philippi, beaten with rods, received many blows, thrown into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. Approaching the end of his life, Apostle Paul said,
2Ti 4:7-8, ”I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith. In the future
there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.”
From the viewpoint of Washing, Wall Street and Hollywood Apostle Paul was a failure; but in the sight of God, Paul will have the crown of righteousness, the crown of life, and the crown of glory. Jas 1:12, ”Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” 1Pe 5:4, “And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.” For a spiritual man, the meaning and purpose of life, the goal and end of human existence is to discover the will of God for his life and do it.
98. The devil enters the heart
Many do not know this great truth. This great truth is more awesome and important than any philosophical and historical truth you know. It is more real than the so-called The Thucydides Trap.
The devil can enter the heart of an evildoer without his knowledge. Jhn 13:2, “And during supper, the devil having already put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon, to betray Him.” The devil put into the heart of Judas the traitor to betray Jesus. The devil is not able to enter the heart of a born-again Christian because of the indwelling Holy Spirit. The evil spirit is afraid of the Holy Spirit. However, the heart of an unbelieving is an open door to the devil. The devil is able to enter the heart of the wicked and puts into his heart some wicked scheme to carry out. Watching the words and deeds of many Western leaders and politicians for so long, you wonder if the devil has put into their hearts to do evil things. If they start a nuclear war against Russia and China, then you know for sure what the devil has put into their hearts.
99. Greed and civilization
Someone said, “Sheer greed was the driving spirit of civilization.” First we know what greed is. The Bible says, Greed is the root of all evils. Second we have to define what is civilization. After going to the end I discover the man was seriously wrong because greed does not create civilization, greed destroys civilization. Greed is not the driving spirit of civilization. Will Durant knew something about civilization when he said, “Civilization begins with order, grows with liberty and dies with chaos.” Where there is greed, there are all kinds of disorder. Where there is greed, there is conflict and chaos. Capitalism was born in greed and propagates through greed. People of capitalistic society are the most greedy. Greed is the mother of frauds. Under capitalism there are more frauds than the stars in the sky. The American 2008 financial crisis was a case in point. Horace said, “The covetous man is always in want.” Greed is like the bottomless Pit, it never satisfies. Lao-tzi said, “There is no calamity greater than lavish desires. There is no greater guilt than discontentment. And there is no greater disaster than greed.” Very few Americans realize that the greatest disaster and enemy of America are not Russia or China, but the military-industrial-security complex and the fraudulent and predatory healthcare.
Merriam Webster defines civilization as the culture characteristic of a particular time or place. While National Geographic defines civilization as a complex of human society that may have certain characteristics of cultural and technological development. Using this framework, I for a long time concluded the civilization of the American south should never have existed because of the abuse and distortion of Christianity.
I was surprised that Daniel Webster said this, “Let us not forget that the cultivation of the earth is the most important labor of man. When tillage begins, other arts will follow. The farmers, therefore, are the founders of civilization.” I was lucky to have met some of civilized persons in the world: I want to mention a few. (1). Danish children. In my article, https://williewongthought.hpage.com/the-theory-of-good-society.html
I was staying at Skodborg, a suburb of Copenhagen. One day I was going to Copenhagen through a sidewalk toward the station, it was coincidentally when the children came home from school. The Danish children of 5-7 years old, boys and girls were walking in the alley where small plants and bushes grew on both sides. They were walking hand in hand horizontally facing me. Suddenly without consultation, they realized they were blocking my passage way to the train station. They at once changed their positions in a row, smiling with their lefts hands on their backs, and right hands stretching out with a ceremonial bow to let me pass. How delightful and lovely were those Danish children at Skodborg. They taught me the meaning of civility. That incident took place in 1976, all those children must have grown up by now.
(2) . Norwegian young man. I was in Oslo one day looking an address. I asked a young Norwegian whom I met the first time by chance if he knew the address. He amicably said he knew the place, and offered to walk with me lest I should get lost. So in my experience I believe Norwegians are the most civilized people on earth. A man is civilized not because the way he treated his friends and relatives, a man is civilized by the way he treats strangers.
(3) . A hospitable farmer.
When we were children we roamed all over the place, and not knowingly we landed on a farm house. The farmer was a stranger, but he insisted to entertain us with boiled fresh peanuts. He used a big wok to boil the fresh peanuts. Honestly, I have been dining all over the world at 5-star restaurants, and my mother was a good cook better than any chef. To this day I still remember the kindness and most delicious fresh peanuts of that hospitable farmer.
Apparently American leaders and politicians do not pay attention of what Franklin Roosevelt believed and said, “If civilization is to survive, we must cultivate the science of human relationships – the ability of all peoples, of all kinds, to live together, in the same world at peace.” Not only President Richard Nixon sought a just a lasting peace for the world; President Roosevelt would no approve the current American hostile and aggressive foreign policy of world dictatorship and domination. The civilization can not survive under the leadership of American politicians.
100. The value of virtue
Marcus Aurelius said, “The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts: therefore, guard accordingly, and take care that you entertain no notions unsuitable to virtue and unreasonable nature.”
Max Planck has a correct view of virtue who said, “All matter originates and exists only by virtue of a force… We must assume behind this force the existence of a conscious and intelligent Mind. This Mind is the matrix of all matter.” The Mind of Christ matters most because the truth of Christ matters most. Some capitalist politician said, “Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery.” Even today after more than 500 years of world dictatorship and domination, European supremacist still do not see their evil deeds and atrocities committed through Western imperialism, colonialism and capitalism. Not one Western supremacist admits the poverty, hardship, misery, difficulty, brutality, extremity, inhumanity, iniquity, etc. that they create in the world to this day. Only people who are like pigs would distort vices and virtues. Confucius said, “The superior man always thinks of virtue, the common man thinks of comfort.” Aristotle said, “It is our choice of good or evil that determines our character, not our opinion about good or evil.” Our choice implies our value, our value is manifested in our virtue by action.
101. The Image of God
It is written, Gen 1:26, “Then God said, “Let Us make mankind in Our image, according to Our likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the livestock and over all the earth, and over every crawling thing that crawls on the earth.” Image in Hebrew is ṣelem which means likeness of resemblance; semblance; a representative figure; a mental picture or impression; idea or concept; appearance; – which occurs 17 times in the Old Testament. Likeness in Hebrew is dᵊmûṯ which means similitude; manner; fashion; like as; resemblance; shape; model; – which occurs 25 times in the Old Testament.
This is a most sober and solemn truth. The Holy and Eternal God is Three in One. God said, Let us. Us means the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. God explains His Word. The Image of God is the Likeness of God.
Gen 1:27, “So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.”
So God created man in the image of God. God is the Creator of man. Man is a creature of God. God is the origin of man. There was no evolution, the evolution process was not necessary. God created male and female. There was no confusion between male and female. The US Supreme Court is unlawful and violated the law of God in making same-sex marriage, male with male and female with female, legal. God ordained that marriage is only between male and female.
Gen 9:6, “Whoever sheds human blood, By man his blood shall be shed, For in the image of God He made mankind.”
In the beginning God also instituted capital punishment or death penalty for murder. Whoever sheds human blood, by man his blood shall be shed. Some European nations which claim to be Christian nations rebelled against God by abolishing death penalty. Death penalty is not cruel or inhuman, murder is cruel and inhuman.
Lev 26:1, “‘You shall not make for yourselves idols, nor shall you setup for yourselves a carved image or a memorial stone, nor shall you place a figured stone in your land to bow down to it; for I am the LORD your God”
God gave law to Moses and thereby known as the Mosaic Law, idolatry or bowing down to a carved image is forbidden. God is One, and there is no other. Pantheism is unlawful, idolatry is a great sin. God commanded not to worship any carved or cast metal image or idol made of gold or silver or stone or anything, an image formed by human skill and thought. The leaders of Taiwan worship idols and at the same time they claim to be Christians are sinning against God and practicing a false religion. The preachers of Taiwan are not the servants of Christ because they do not fear God, and they fear to rebuke their leaders and politicians who commit idolatry.
For thousands of years the Old Testament saints and prophets pondered and searched out the meaning of the Image of God. Jesus Christ who is the Image of God came down from Heaven and reveals the Father by declaring, Jhn 4:24, “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” God became Flesh (Incarnation) in the Body of Jesus. The death of Jesus Christ for sinners was a real bodily death. There is no such a thing called the resurrection of the spirit, because the spirit cannot die. The unbelieving theologians misled people in many false doctrines. After His bodily resurrection, Jesus appeared to the disciples on many occasions at different places. In His first appearance, Jesus says,
Luk 24:39, “See My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself; touch Me and see, because a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you plainly see that I have.”
Jesus reveals the truth, a spirit does not have flesh and bones. Finally, the New Testament saints come to the knowledge, the Image of God cannot be physical because God is Spirit. You cannot touch and see the Spirit. In the beginning God used Image and Likeness interchangeably and synonymously.
2Co 4:4, “in whose case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelieving so that they will not see the light of the Gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the Image of God.”
Jesus Christ is the invisible Image of God. Image in Greek is eikōn which means figure; likeness; profile; representation; divine nature; picture; resemblance; – which occurs 23 times in the New Testament.
Rom 8:29, “For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the Image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.”
Children of God are to become conformed to the Image of the Son of God. What does it mean to become conformed to the Image of Jesus Christ? One thing is clear, to be like Jesus Christ is to be conformed to His image.
Eph 4:24, “and to put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.”
Children of God who put on the new self must have the likeness of God, created in righteousness, holiness, and the truth. We know God is Spirit, the divine nature of God is righteousness, holiness, and truth. The more children of God have righteousness, holiness, and truth the more they possess the Image of God or the Likeness of God. To become conformed to the Image of the Son of God is to be conformed to His righteousness, holiness and truth. Righteousness in Greek is dikaiosynē which means integrity, virtue, purity of life, rightness, correctness of thinking feeling, and acting (Strong’s Concordance); in a broad sense the condition acceptable to God; equity of character or act; justice or morality; goodness and uprightness; – which occurs 92 times in the New Testament. Holiness in Greek is hosiotēs which means piety towards God; fidelity in observing God’s commandments; godliness; sanctification; devoutness; – which occurs 2 times in the New Testament. Truth in Greek is alētheia which means verity; objectivity; according to truth; in reality; conforming to the truth in Christ Jesus; moral excellence; free from fraud, falsehood, deceit, and pretense; a mode of life in harmony with divine truth (Strong’s Concordance); – which occurs 109 times in the New Testament.
The Image of God or the Likeness of God is basically righteousness, holiness, and truth. The more Christians possess righteousness, holiness, and truth the more they conform to the Son of God, Jesus Christ, our Great God and Savior. The nature of God also consists of Omnipotence, Omniscience, Omnipresence and perfection. No man can conform to the Omnipotence, Omniscience, Omnipresence and perfection of God. A believer is born again by the Holy Spirit, the new self is created in righteousness, holiness, and truth in Christ.
Western supremacists and imperialists do not have the likeness of Christ, they are like children of the devil who lie, kill, and rob. They are not Christians because they discredited Christianity and dishonor the Lord Jesus. They are in deep darkness and practice unrighteousness and injustice. They need to REPENT, REFORM, AND RECOMPENSE their victims for their past evil deeds and iniquities.
102. The State of the World
In the last days, the state of the world is very, very bad because it is most dangerous and perilous.
2Ti 3:1-14, “But KNOW this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! For of this sort are those who creep into households and make captives of gullible women loaded down with sins, led away by various lusts, always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Now as Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, disapproved concerning the faith; but they will progress no further, for their folly will be manifest to all, as theirs also was. But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, persecutions, afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra—what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me. Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them.”
Note: Know this! You may know many unimportant things. If you do not know this, your knowledge is vain and useless. “But KNOW this, that in the last days PERILOUS times will come.” Perilous in Greek is chalepos which means fierce; dangerous; hard to bear; troublesome; harsh; savage; difficult; furious; grievous; oppressive; annoying; hazardous; full of peril; parlous; – which occurs 2 times in the New Testament.
103. CHARACTERS AND CHARACTERISTICS OF LAST DAYS PEOPLES.
Peoples of the last days (which is today) have the following characters and characteristics as it is written:
1. Lovers of self 2. Lovers of money 3. Boastful 4. Arrogant 5. Slanderers 6. Disobedient to parents 7. Ungrateful 8. Unholy 9. Unloving 10. Irreconcilable 11. Malicious gossips 12. Without self-control 13. Brutal 14. Haters of good 15. Treacherous 16. Reckless 17. Conceited 18. Lovers of pleasure Three kinds of lovers: lovers of self, lovers of money, and lovers of pleasure characterize the problems of the last days and compound many unprecedented problems the world is facing. Most of the crimes committed today are caused by these three kinds of lovers. Do you know that Lucifer fell because of his self-centeredness?
104. AMERICA IN CRISIS
America is the most mismanaged country in the world. It would be voluminous to record all the cases of mismanagement politically, diplomatically, strategically, financially, economically, educationally, medically, departmentally, militarily, and trade.
James A. Lucas（24 April, 2007）wrote “This study reveals that U.S. military forces were directly responsible for about 10 to 15 million deaths during the Korean and Vietnam Wars and the two Iraq Wars. The Korean War also includes Chinese deaths while the Vietnam War also includes fatalities in Cambodia and Laos.
According to https://military.wikia.org/wiki/List_of_wars_involving_the_United_States
“List of wars involving the United States… Jer 12:17, “But if they will not listen, then I will uproot that nation, uproot and destroy it, declares the LORD.”
Note: Wars of aggression can have beautiful names such as Operation Restoring Hope, Operation Just Cause, Operation Enduring Freedom, etc. to fool the uninformed. God cannot be fooled. God is calling the United States to listen: cease to be the evil empire, cease and desist to be the warmonger, cease to do evil in the world, cease to cause destruction. I am afraid American leaders will not listen because they are arrogant supremacists, imperialists, hegemonists, monopolists, militarists and capitalists. Let American leaders know what God has said, “But if they will not listen, then I will uproot that nation, uproot and destroy it, declares the Lord.”
Let God’s Word be the final warning. I am afraid American leaders will not listen because they have no fear of God. Only President Richard Nixon had the right vision for America and the world because Nixon did not seek world domination, he sought a just and lasting peace. After Nixon, there has not been one president who leads the nation to the right path.
Luk 6:41-42,“Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother: Brother, let me take out the speck that is in your eye, when you yourself do not see the log that is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take out the speck that is in your brother’s eye.”
Billy Graham had been known as the counselor and preacher of American presidents. However, Billy Graham was not John the Baptist, as far as I know, he did not and no American preacher had face to face pointed to the American presidents their sins of committing war crimes and atrocities in many parts of the world. I believe the reason was almost all American preachers were inflicted by Americanism and blinded by patriotism that they could not see any wrong done by America. I recall a white missionary from South Africa who told me the Blacks in Africa were like the Amalekites and the Canaanites in the Promised Land, it was justified to kill them. Oh, what a white man’s gospel!
The US Constitution needs to be revised. The change is to stipulate that the national sovereignty is vested in the hands of American citizens. American citizens have the final say on every vital issue and important matters of the nation. National referendum is the real democracy in action. Unlike the democracy and national referendum in Taiwan which is phony and not worth mentioning. American leaders and politicians are afraid of changing the U.S. Constitution to stipulate that sovereignty is vested in the hands of American citizens because in that way American leaders and politicians will lose their monopoly of power. When and where 51% of Americans cast their votes of no confidence in the president or any high ranking official, they can be removed automatically without going through the useless process of impeachment. The majority of American citizens are empowered to make decision of national importance. For example, if 51% of American voters decide to abandon empire, the American foreign policy can be changed overnight, all American troops stationed overseas, aircraft carriers, warships, destroyers, bombers, spy plans, etc. can be withdrawn at once.
The purpose of listing the most dangerous American time bombs. I define a time bomb as a national pressing problem or serious situation if not resolved properly that threatens to have disastrous consequences at some near future time or unexpectedly. Had American citizens possess the right of national sovereignty, many vital issues could have been resolved by national referendums. There are quite a few American ticking time bombs. Here just to mention a few as follows:
(1) . Blacks (2) . Latinos (3) . Debt (4) . Deficit (5) . Illegal aliens (already in America) (6) . Welfare (7) . Drugs (8) . Economy (9) . Trade (10) Special interests (11) Partisan divisiveness (12) Racial discrimination (13) Police brutality (14) Illegal migrants (want to come in) (15) Fraudulent healthcare (most costly in the world) (16) Injustice (17) Organized crime (18) Terrorism (19) Inequality (20) Corruption (21) Culture (22) Military-Industrial-Security complex (23) Pentagon (24) Iran (25) Hamas-Palestinians EVERY CRISIS IS A TIME BOMB. A time bomb is a potentially dangerous or detrimental factor which may increase its destructiveness with the passage of time.
105. Zone Alarm
Zone alarm is worst than the worst virus or malware. It invaded the computers without invitation and without shame. It is hidden at Firefox extension, but it cannot be uninstalled or deleted because it does not have a valid name or valid file. I dropped Firefox, but the evil Zone Alarm is attached with Chrome extension. “Zone Alarm, however, neither this software, nor the internet security software company that developed it, has anything to do with this scam.” I do not believe in the statement cited. I believe whoever created Zone Alarm are children of darkness, children of the devil, the wicked. Those who sell their software to remove this evil Zone Alarm may be co-conspirators. I hope the federal government will severely punish those involved with ZoneAlarm. It is a troublemaker and evildoer who hinders normal work and makes troubles for computer users. It is equivalent to terrorists in the Internet. I hope some righteous software engineers may destroy Zone Alarm at once.
The following is an example of what Zone Alarm does: pretending what you normally do is not allowed by your organization policy, and for your protection — blocking legitimate site.
Zone Alarm ZONEALARM ALERT Blocked access to a website Access to this website is not allowed by your organization policy. For your protection, this site has been blocked. URL: https://signup.live.com/signup?mkt=en-US&uiflavor=app&lw=1&fl=easi2&client_id=51483342-085c-4d86-bf88-cf50c7252078&wreply=https%3a%2f%2fwww.office.com%2f%3fauth%3d1%26from%3dPwaFreeSignup&lic=1&uaid=609236f05efc43c5b3ca92128baea192 Site category: Computers / Internet Reference: a952a2a9 106. SOMEBODY Everybody thinks he is somebody when he is nobody. 107. GOOD SENSE
If you have good sense, you should know the difference between assuming and presuming.
108. GOD IS NOT A MAN
Most people know God is not a man, that He would lie. God is a consuming fire, a jealous God. God is the God of gods and the Lord of lords. God is greater than all the gods. God is gracious and compassionate. God is favorably disposed to all who seek Him. God is greater than mankind. God is awesome majesty. God is the King of all the earth. God is the Judge. God is holy. God is righteous. God is true. God is faithful. God is Light. God is Spirit. God is love. God is in the Heavens. God is the LORD! God is only ONE. God is Ruler over the realm of mankind.
Not many know the LORD God of armies is His name. God knows your hearts; because that which is highly esteemed among people is detestable in the sight of God. But if anyone loves God, he is known by Him. Yet for us there is only ONE God, the Father, from whom are all things, and we exist for Him; and ONE Lord, Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we exist through Him. It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God. You adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore whoever wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. The world is passing away and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God continues to live forever.
109. Why the US Must Be
Careful With China
American strategists falsely maintain that China is dangerous. These warmongers are blind to the fact China has not attacked and occupied any nation like the U.S. has done since the end of World War II. Instead China has aided more than 100 nations although it is still a poor country. America is the only overtly imperialist nation wanting to dominate the world at any cost. Historically, America and Europe have wronged China too many times since the Opium Wars to this day. America violated China’s sovereignty in many areas like Tibet, Xinjian, Hong Kong, Diaoyu Islands, and Taiwan. American aggression all failed in Tibet, Xinjiang and Hong Kong. The U.S. treats Taiwan as its colony is the most flagrant and explosive. If America does not repent and restrain its aggression and falsely believes they can incite an conventional war against China and win would be the most fatal historical blunder. Any attack on China and Russia would turn out a global nuclear war. As I explained in the article Why the U.S. Must Not Have War With China, https://williewongthought.hpage.com/why-the-united-states-must-not-have-war-with-china.html
China and Russia and all hate America imperialist nations would be concerted to retaliate mainland America and world-wide as never before, consequently it will unmistakably destroy America, China, Russia and the whole world. America is playing fire with Taiwan, AUKUS and QUAD. China is not a competitor and does not want to be a competitor with America or any nation. China only competes with itself in restoring its past glory without hegemonic intention. Most Americans are not aware that American leaders and politicians are leading America to death and destruction. Let China alone. No Help. No Sanction. Act before it is too late!!!
110. Heat or Eat
According to https://consumerenergyalliance.org/cms/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/2021_Heat_or_Eat_Consumers.pdf
FOR HOME HEATING, ON AVERAGE, HOUSEHOLDS WILL SPEND: • $746 on natural gas, an increase of $172 or 30% more • $1,268 on electricity, an increase of $72 or 7% more • $631 on propane, an increase of $221 or 54% more • $1,734 on heating oil, an increase of $521 or 43% more These numbers matter. Almost 29% of families reported to the U.S. Census Bureau in August they had to reduce or go without basic household necessities, such as medicine or food, to pay an energy bill. As a result, heating costs may become another necessity that struggling families and swaths of people living on fixed incomes simply cannot afford.
$746 on natural gas
$1,268 on electricity
$1,734 on heating oil
—————————–
$3,748
In some states like Southern California, no heating oil is required. To pay for natural gas and electricity amounts to $2,014 .
According to https://cn.bing.com/search?q=Average+monthly+social+security+benefits
“The average Social Security benefit was $1,543 per month in January 2021.” A retired American Social Security recipient needs also to pay for rent, food, medicine, transportation, medical insurance, etc. It is clear a retired American with social security monthly benefits cannot live anywhere in America. Yes, not a few retired Americans live in Mexico, etc. Unfortunately as the numbers indicate, the population of struggling elderlies in America may be forced to commit suicide. Christians should not and will not commit suicide under any circumstances. It is a sad and shocking fact that most Americans cannot afford to retire in America. I am one among those American retirees who live abroad because my social security benefits cannot afford me to live in America.
111. HOW CHRISTIANS LIVE
Christians in addition to pray, praise, work, witness and wait for the second coming of Christ, must conduct himself in a way that pleases the Lord. To conduct our Christian life is to live according to the Word of God:
1. Live in hope. Act 2:26, “THEREFORE MY HEART WAS GLAD AND MY TONGUE WAS OVERJOYED; MOREOVER MY FLESH ALSO WILL LIVE IN HOPE.”
2. In God we live and move and exist. Act 17:28,
“for in Him we live and move and exist, as even some of your own poets have said, ‘For we also are His descendants.’
3. Live by faith. Rom 1:17, “For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written: “BUT THE RIGHTEOUS ONE WILL LIVE BY FAITH.”
4. Live with Christ. Rom 6:8, “Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him.”
5. Live for the Lord. Rom 14:8, “for if we live, we live for the Lord, or if we die, we die for the Lord; therefore whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.”
6. Live in peace.
2Co 13:11, “Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice, mend your ways, be comforted, be like-minded, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.”
7. Live for God. Gal 2:19, “For through the Law I died to the Law, so that I might live for God.”
8. Live by faith in the Son of God. Gal 2:20, “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.”
9. Live by the Spirit. Gal 5:25, “If we live by the Spirit, let’s follow the Spirit as well.”
10. Live in harmony in the Lord. Phl 4:2, “I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to live in harmony in the Lord.”
11. Live in a godly way. 2Ti 3:12, “Indeed, all who want to live in a godly way in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”
12. Live sensibly, righteously, and in a godly manner.
Tit 2:12, “instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously, and in a godly manner in the present age.”
13. Live in the Spirit according to the will of God.
1Pe 4:6, “For the Gospel has for this purpose been preached even to those who are dead, that though they are judged in the flesh as people, they may live in the Spirit according to the will of God.”
This Scripture probably refers to Jesus Christ during His bodily death went down to preach the Gospel to those who are dead.
My dear brothers and sisters, if you master and understand these Thirteen Biblical Principle cited above on how to live, you will do well; and it is much better than reading several books on the Christian Living.
112. TRUST AND OBEY
How do Christians live in this world which we do not belong to? I believe there are two words may help, Trust and Obey. Trust the past to the mercy of God, the present to the providence of God, and the future to the promises of God.
1. Trust in the faithfulness of God.
Psa 52:8, “But as for me, I am like a green olive tree in the house of God; I trust in the faithfulness of God forever and ever.”
2. Trust in God at all times.
Psa 62:8, “Trust in Him at all times, you people; Pour out your hearts before Him; God is a refuge for us. Selah” 3. Trust in God’s salvation.
Psa 78:22, “Because they did not believe in God And did not trust in His salvation.”
4. Trust in the Word of God.
Psa 119:42, “So that I will have an answer for one who taunts me, for I trust in Your Word.”
5. Trust in the name of the Lord. Isa 50:10, “Who is among you who fears the LORD, Who obeys the voice of His servant, Who walks in darkness and has no light? Let him trust in the name of the LORD and rely on his God.”
As regards obedience:
1. Obey God rather than men.
Act 5:29, “But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than men.”
2. Obey the Holy Spirit.
Act 5:32, “And we are witnesses of these things; and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey Him.”
3. Obey the truth.
Rom 2:8, “but to those who are self-serving and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, He will give wrath and indignation.”
4. Obey the Gospel of our Lord Jesus.
2Th 1:8-9, “in flaming fire, dealing out retribution to those who do not know God, and to those who do not obey the Gospel of our Lord Jesus. These people will pay the penalty of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power.
5. Obey Jesus Christ.
1Pe 1:2, “according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you.”
Jhn 3:36, “The one who believes in the Son has eternal life; but the one who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.”
6. Obey your parents in the Lord.
Eph 6:1, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.”
When Chinese parents want their children to worship their ancestors, idols, eat blood, etc. Christians cannot obey their Chinese parents because it is not in the Lord.
7. Obey your human masters.
Col 3:22, “Slaves, obey those who are your human masters in everything, not with eye-service, as people-pleasers, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord.”
A black politician who was a descendant of slaves mocked at this Scripture. The Bible does not condone slavery. The Bible also does not advocate revolution to change the world. The world as it is, the duty of Christians is to preach the Gospel to every creature.
8. Obey your leaders.
Heb 13:17, “Obey your leaders and submit to them—for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account—so that they may do this with joy, not groaning; for this would be unhelpful for you.”
The leaders here refer to Christian leaders in the Church, not political leaders like Hitler and white imperialists.
113. What are Christians to do in this world?
A. Be crucified to the world.
Gal 6:14, “But far be it from me to boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.”
It is proper to often ask myself, has the world been crucified to me, and I to the world?
B. Be holy and blameless before God.
Eph 1:4, “just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him. In love.”
C. Struggle against the evil forces.
Eph 6:12, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.”
Doing the ministry of the Word on the Internet, I have to struggle against the dark and evil forces of the world everyday.
D. Prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent.
Phl 2:15, “so that you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world.”
E. Keep oneself unstained by the world.
Jas 1:27, “Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.”
Unstained in Greek is aspilos which means without spot; spotless; unspotted; irreproachable; unsullied; unblemished; free from vice; not morally blemished or tainted; unsoiled; – which occurs 4 times in the New Testament.
F. To be rich in faith.
Jas 2:5, “Listen, my beloved brothers and sisters: did God not choose the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him?
G. Overcome the world.
1Jo 5:5, “Who is the one who overcomes the world, but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?”
Overcome in Greek is nikaō which means to conquer; to prevail; to get the victory; to subdue; to triumph over; – which occurs 28 times in the New Testament. The job of Christians is not to save the world, not to change the world, not to reform the world — but to conquer, overcome, subdue and triumph over the world by preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
God does not hold the community responsible for your life. God holds you responsible for your life. No one is held responsible for another’s life. You are responsible if you kill another’s life. God will not hold you for the success and failure of another’s life. God will hold you responsible for all your thoughts, words, and deeds of your life.
114. WESTERN CHRISTIANITY
I see Western Christianity is practicing greed — the love of money. There are so many so-called Christian churches, conventions, missions, associations, institutions, organizations, societies, Bible institutes, colleges, universities, seminaries, business enterprises, publishers, evangelists, pastors, preachers, teachers, and theologians who are driven by the money motive. They are loves of themselves, and lovers of money.
WILLIE WONG
WILLIE WONG THOUGHT
MARCH 18, 2024
https://williewongthought.hpage.com
—————————————————————————— WILLIE WONG THOUGHT WILLIE WONG MARCH 18, 2024
THANKS FOR THE FREE AND GOOD SERVICES PROVIDED BY Uptrends.com, Histats.com, Statcounter.com, Shinystat.com, Web-Stat.com; DATA COLLECTED FROM THE FOLLOWING VISITOR STATISTICS indicate the peoples of the countries and cities or regions which have visited my website to this day. They are listed in alphabetical order for the sake convenience, not in any order of importance, for every country and city is precious to me. Countries and regions that visit my website (Taiwan and Hong Kong are not countries), they are listed below in alphabetical order for the sake of convenience, it is not an order of importance.
PEOPLES OF THE FOLLOWING COUNTRIES AND TERRITORIES HAVE VISITED MY WEBSITE:
https://williewongthought.hpage.com
Peoples of many other nations may have visited but not reported:
1. China
2. United States
3. Norway
4. Indonesia
5. Hong Kong
6. The Netherlands
7. Malaysia
8. Hungary
9. Canada
10. South Africa
11. Brazil
12. Ukraine
13. Singapore
14. Russia
15. United Kingdom
16. Thailand
17. Vietnam
18. Australia
19. India
20. Japan
21. Greece
22. Venezuela
23. Denmark
24. Finland
25. Mauritius
26. Burkina Faso
27. Bulgaria
28. United Arab Emirates
29. Turkey
30. Philippines
31. Taiwan
32. Algeria
33. Belarus
34. France
35. Bangladesh
36. Romania
37. Kenya
38. Chile
39. Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
40. Qatar
41. Nigeria
42. Republic of Korea
43. Sri Lanka
44. Egypt
45. Argentina
46. Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
47. Iran
48. Senegal
49. Czech Republic
50. Macau
51. Cambodia
52. Sweden
53. Switzerland
54. Peru
55. Mexico
56. Brunei Darussalem
57. Dominica
58. Antigua and Barbuda
59. Ireland
60. Haiti
61. Croatia
62. Honduras
63. Heard Islands and McDonald Islands
64. Guyana
65. Guinea-Bissau
66. Guam
67. Guatemala
68. Germany
69. Greenland
70. Gibraltar
71. Georgia
72. Ethiopia
73. Cyprus
74. Cuba
75. Costa Rica
76. Colombia
77. Spain
78. Bhutan
79. Bahamas
80. Belgium
81. Austria
82. Armenia
83. Albania
84. Anguilla
85. Israel
86. Pakistan
87. Italy
88. Cote D’ivoire
89. Togo
90. Ecuador
91. El Salvador
92. Benin
93. Belize
94. Portugal
95. Saudi Arabia
96. Nicaragua
97. Uruguay
98. Mongolia
99. Oman
100. Netherlands Antilles
101. Myanmar
102. Jamaica
103. Dominican Republic
104. Kazakhstan
105. Paraguay
106. Poland
107. Serbia
108. Zambia
109. Bosnia and Herzegovina
110. Djibouti
111. Lithuania
112. Ghana
113. Montenegro
114. Liberia
115. Virgin Islands
116. Lao
117. Cameroon
118. Estonia
119. Aruba
120. Morocco
121. Lesotho
122. Congo
123. Angola
124. Uganda
125. Nepal
126. Suriname
127. Iraq
128. Kuwait
129. Micronesia
130. Mali
131. Kyrgyzstan
132. Mozambique
133. Tunisia
134. Latvia
135. Slovakia
136. Slovenia
137. Bolivia
138. Jordan
139. Macedonia
140. Luxembourg
141. Bahrain
142. Azerbaijan
143. Iceland
144. Ivory Coast
145. Tanzania
146. Panama
147. Madagascar
148. Grenada
149. French Southern Territories
150. Chad
151. Liechtenstein
152. Sint Maarten
153. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
154. New Caledonia
155. Seychelles
156. French Polynesia
157. Malawi
158. Guadeloupe
159. Tajikistan
160. Botswana
161. Jersey
162. Faroe Islands
163. Isle of Man
164. Malta
165. Rwanda
166. Cabo Verde
167. Maldives
168. Sudan
169. Syria
170. Yemen
171. Reunion
172. Guernsey
173. Gabon
174. Andorra
175. Turkmenistan
176. Fiji
177. Somalia
178. Barbados
179. Libya
180. Kosovo
181. Palestine
182. Equatorial Guinea
——————————————————-
TOTAL – 182 COUNTRIES
DATED 10/26/2021
——————————
PEOPLES OF THE FOLLOWING CITIES OR REGIONS, FOR THE SAKE CONVENIENCE, ARE LISTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER. THEY HAVE VISITED MY WEBSITE AND EVERY CITY IS PRECIOUS TO ME. I SUGGEST TO PLAY A GAME TO INCREASE YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF THE WORLD. FOR EXAMPLE, I CALL OUT OSLO AND YOU NAME THE COUNTRY NORWAY. YOU CAN PICK UP ANY CITY, AND SEE IF YOU CALL OUT A CITY AND KNOW ITS COUNTRY. IF NOT, CHECK WITH THE COUNTRIES LISTED ABOVE. The data of hundreds of Chinese cities were lost.
*Our mission is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ absolutely free. We do not want donation. We only want you to know the truth.
1.) The Lord is the Righteous One.
Exo 9:27, “Then Pharaoh sent for Moses and Aaron, and said to them, “I have sinned this time; the LORD is the Righteous One, and I and my people are the wicked ones.”
This is the confession of Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, that he and his people are the wicked ones. There are not many leaders who would confess like Pharaoh.
The Lord in Hebrew is Yᵊhōvâ which means the Self-Existent or Eternal; the Lord; God; the proper Name of the God of Israel; the One bringing into Being; Life Giver; Creator; the Absolute and Unchangeable One; I AM WHO I AM; — which occurs 6,521 times in the Old Testament. Whatever was wrong with the Pharaoh, his concept of the Lord is correct.
Let us see the Righteous in Hebrew is ṣadîq which means just; lawful; right; acting in accord with divine or moral law; — which occurs 206 times in the Old Testament. Pharaoh confessed that the Lord is the Righteous One, he and his people are the wicked ones.
The Lord is not so much about the existence of God, it explains the nature and attribute of God.
2.) The Lord is righteous.
2Ch 12:6, “So the princes of Israel and the king
humbled themselves and said, “The LORD is righteous.”
In front of the Righteous Lord, even princes and the king have to humble themselves.
The Lord is righteous.
Psa 11:7, “For the LORD is righteous, He loves righteousness; the upright will see His face.”
The Lord is righteous because He loves righteousness. Only the upright will see His face.
The Lord is righteous.
Psa 129:4, “The LORD is righteous;
He has cut up the ropes of the wicked.”
Pulpit Commentary
Verse 4. – The Lord is righteous. Still, God is just. He allowed these sufferings to be inflicted on us because we deserved them; and he interposed on our behalf when we had been sufficiently punished, and cut asunder the cords of the wicked. Cut, i.e., the cords wherewith they had bound us. The “retrospect” here ends, and in the next verse the “anticipation” begins. Psalm 129:4.”
Lam 1:18, “The LORD is righteous,
for I have rebelled against His command;
Hear now, all peoples, and see my pain;
my virgins and my young men have gone
into captivity.”
Benson Commentary
Lamentations 1:18-19. The Lord is righteous, for I have rebelled, &c. — He does me no wrong in dealing thus with me, nor can I charge him with any injustice. Observe, reader, whatever the troubles are which God is pleased to inflict upon us, we must own that in them he is righteous: we neither know him nor ourselves, if we do not acknowledge this. Jerusalem owns the equity of God’s actions by confessing the iniquity of her own. Hear, I pray you, all people — See note on Lamentations 1:12. My virgins and my young men are gone into captivity — Thus it is said, 2 Chronicles 36:17, that the Chaldeans had “no compassion upon young men or maidens.” I called for my lovers, but they deceived me — They proved like the brooks in summer to the thirsty traveller, Job 6:15. The Egyptians and her other allies are intended, who made court to her in her prosperity, and promised her assistance, but in the day of her adversity and necessity were alienated from her, and cast her off. Thus we are commonly deceived and disappointed in those creatures that we set our hearts upon, and put our trust in. Happy they that have made God their friend, and keep themselves in his love, for he will not deceive them! My priests and mine elders gave up the ghost in the city — The famine hath consumed the most honourable as well as the meaner people. While they sought their meat to relieve their souls — While they went about seeking for bread to keep them alive. The LXX. add, και ουχ ευρον, and found none, with whom the Syriac agrees. But no such words appear in the Hebrew copies, although the thing is implied, for they would not have died if they had found what they sought.”
3.) The Lord is righteous in all His ways.
Psa 145:17, “The LORD is righteous in all His ways,
and kind in all His works.”
Benson Commentary
Psalm 145:17. The Lord is righteous in all his ways — And not unrighteous in any of them; and holy in all his works — Always acting like himself, with perfect rectitude and purity. In all his acts of government he is just, injurious to none, but administering justice to all: his ways are equal, though ours are unequal. In giving laws, in deciding controversies, in recompensing services, and punishing offences, he is incontestably righteous and holy, and we are in duty bound to acknowledge it. But the word חסיד, here rendered holy, generally signifies merciful, and, it seems, ought to have been so translated here. There is a mixture of mercy in the most severe and terrible works and dispensations of God toward men in this life, judgment without mercy being reserved for the next life, James 2:13; Revelation 14:10.”
4.) The Lord Is a Warrior.
Exo 15:3, “The LORD is a warrior;
The LORD is His name.”
Pulpit Commentary
Verse 3. – a man of war. A strong anthropomorphism, but one that could scarcely be misunderstood – “a man of war,” meaning commonly “a warrior,” or “one mighty in battle” (Psalm 24:8). God’s might had just been proved, in that he alone had discomfited and destroyed the most potent armed force in the whole world. The Lord is his name. Jehovah – the alone-existing One “truly describes him,” before whom all other existence fades and falls into nothingness. On the full meaning of the name, see the comment on Exodus 3:14. Exodus 15:3.”
5.) The LORD is greater than all the gods.
Exo 18:11, “Now I know that the LORD is greater than
all the gods; indeed, it was proven when they acted
insolently against the people.”
All the gods of false religion are false gods. You must know that the Lord is greater than all the gods. It does not mean other gods are true gods. There is no other god. To act insolently in Hebrew is zûḏ which means to deal presumptuously; to deal arrogantly; to sin knowingly; to do impudently; — which occurs 10 times in the Old Testament.
6.) The LORD is slow to anger and abundant in mercy.
Num 14:18, “The LORD is slow to anger and abundant in mercy, forgiving wrongdoing and violation of His Law; but He will by no means leave the guilty unpunished, inflicting the punishment of the fathers on the childrento the third and the fourth generations.”
Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible
The Lord is longsuffering,…. Towards all men, and especially towards his own people:
and of great mercy, being abundant in goodness, and keeping mercy for thousands:
forgiving iniquity and transgression, all sorts of sin:
and by no means clearing the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation; which may seem to make against the plea of Moses for mercy and forgiveness; but the reason of these words being expressed seems to be, because they go along with the others in the passage referred to, and are no contradiction to the forgiving mercy of God in a way of justice; nor did Moses request to have the guilty cleared from punishment altogether, but that God would show mercy, at least to such a degree as not to cut off the whole nation, and leave no posterity to inherit the land; which is supposed in visiting the sin of the fathers to the third or fourth generation.”
7.) The LORD is our God, the LORD is One!
Deu 6:4, “Hear, Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD is one!”
Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges
4. Hear, O Israel] So Deuteronomy 9:1; Deuteronomy 20:3, and similarly Deuteronomy 4:1, Deuteronomy 6:3; and nowhere else in the Hexateuch. The Sg. is to be explained as in Deuteronomy 5:1; but the continuance of the Sg. through the rest of this section is (especially if it is to follow immediately on Deuteronomy 6:1, see above) analogous to the appearance of the Sg. of the Decalogue in a Pl. context. There, as here, Moses uses the Pl. address for his own words, but quotes what God gave him at Ḥoreb in the Sg. the Lord our God is one Lord] As the R. V. marg. shows, this is one of four possible translations of the elliptic Hebrew: Jehovah our-God, Jehovah One. The other three are: Jehovah our God, Jehovah is One; Jehovah is our God, Jehovah is One; Jehovah is our God, Jehovah alone. But the four are resolvable into these two: First, Jehovah our God is One, an expression of His unity, appropriate at a time when we know from Jeremiah that by the multiplication of His shrines the people of Judah conceived Him, as Baal or Ashtoreth was conceived, not as One, but as many deities with different characteristics and powers over different localities, cp. Jeremiah 2:28. Second, Jehovah is our God alone: i.e. Israel’s only God, cp. Zechariah 14:9; Song of Solomon 6:9; 1 Chronicles 29:1. These passages are all post-exilic, and in the first two one may mean unique, but that here it means only (for Israel) is probable from the following verse. Some interpreters take the verse as ‘a great declaration of monotheism’ (so Driver). But had that been the intention of the writer the clause would have run ‘Jehovah is the God, Jehovah alone.’ The use of the term our-God shows that the meaning simply is Jehovah is Israel’s only God. Nothing is said as to the existence or non-existence of other gods, and the verse is therefore on an equality with Deuteronomy 5:7, the First Commandment, and with Deuteronomy 7:9, which implies no more than that Jehovah is a or the God indeed; cp. the curious Deuteronomy 4:19 b which seeks to reconcile His sovereignty with the fact that other gods are worshipped by other nations. Only in Deuteronomy 4:35; Deuteronomy 4:39 does an explicit declaration of monotheism appear in Deut.; it is to be remembered, however, that on other grounds the post-exilic date of these verses is possible1[126]. At the same time the phrase used here lends itself readily to the expression of an absolute monotheism, which later ages of a wider faith read into it. It is interesting to compare with our verse St Paul’s statement 1 Corinthians 8:4-6; we know that no idol is anything in the world and that there is no God but one; for though there be that are called gods …; as there be gods many and lords many, yet to us there is One God, the Father, of whom are all things. Note even here yet to us! [126] This is not meant to imply that some in Israel had not thrown off belief in the reality of other gods before the Exile. Jeremiah certainly had: e.g. Deuteronomy 2:11. 4–9. The Essential Creed and Duty of Israel, with enforcement of them. Known from its initial word as The Shĕma‘ (= Hear), this section (along with Deuteronomy 11:13-21 and Numbers 15:37-41) ‘has been for many ages the first bit of the Bible which Jewish children have learned to say and to read, just as it has for many ages formed the confession of faith among all members of the brotherhood of Judaism’ (C. G. Montefiore, The Bible for Home Reading, Pt i. 127). The later law required its recital by a Jew twice daily; for particulars see Schürer, Gesrh. des jüd. Volkes, § 27 and Appendix (3rd Germ. ed. ii. 459 f.; E.T. Div. ii. Vol. ii. pp. 77, 84). The LXX inserts before it a longish title1[125], which shows how late this editorial practice of inserting titles to important sections of Deut. continued, and explains some similar headings in the Heb. text. [125] ‘And these are the statutes and the judgements which the Lord commanded to the children of Israel, when they were coming out of the land of Egypt.”
8.) The hand of the Lord is mighty.
Jos 4:24, “so that all the peoples of the earth may know that the hand of the LORD is mighty, so that you may fear the LORD your God forever.”
Not only the hand of the Lord is mighty, there is nothing impossible with God. The power of God has no limits.
Pulpit Commentary
Verse 24. – The hand of the Lord, that it is mighty. “Thus the river, though dumb, was the best of heralds, proclaiming with a loud voice that heaven and earth are subject to the Lord God of Israel” (Calvin). That ye might fear. The construction here is unusual. Instead of the imperfect or infinitive with לְמַעַן we have the perfect. Therefore Ewald, Maurer, and Knobel (who says that the second member of the sentence ought to correspond with the first) have altered the pointing in order to bring this passage into conformity with the supposed necessities of grammar. In so doing they have robbed it of its picturesqueness and its meaning. For the object is clearly to show the lasting nature of the fear, “that ye might recognise now the hand of the Lord, that ye might have a thorough and lasting fear of his name.” We may here remark on the necessarily miraculous character of the whole narrative of the crossing the Jordan. It admits of no explaining away. The account must either be accepted or rejected en bloc. First we have the specific declaration of Rahab in chap. 2:10, that Jehovah dried up the Red Sea, and that this proof of the peculiar protection of Israel by the Most High had struck terror into the hearts of the inhabitants of Canaan. Next we have the fact that Jordan had overflowed its banks. The dangerous nature of the crossing, even at ordinary times, has been mentioned already. Lives are frequently lost in the attempt, as recent travellers with one voice declare. At the time when the waters were out such a crossing was practically impossible to a host like the host of Israel. Nor can there be any mistake about its being the period of the overflowing of Jordan, for the time of the crossing is mentioned. It was the time of harvest – that is, of the barley harvest. This is confirmed by the fact that the recently cut flax was now lying on the roof of Rahab’s house, and by the fact that the harley and flax ripened together, a coincidence which we have already mentioned in the note on chap. 2:6. The time is yet further defined. It was the “tenth day of the first month.” We learn, moreover, from Leviticus 23:9-15 and Deuteronomy 16:6 that this was the time when the firstfruits were offered, from which seven weeks were reckoned to the beginning of wheat harvest (Exodus 34:2). Moreover, the passover was kept immediately afterwards (Joshua 5:10), on “the fourteenth day of the first month.” Thus the date of the crossing, which is accurately fixed by a variety of circumstances, is clearly proved to correspond with the time of Jordan’s overflow. We next come to the measures taken to secure the crossing. There is likewise no mistake here. Not one single intimation is given of an endeavour to break in any way the force of the current, or to preserve the Israelites, either men, women, or children, from the imminent risk they ran of death by drowning. Not only are no other expedients resorted to, but no animals seem to have been prepared to transport them over. Nor, again, were any means used to elude the vigilance of the inhabitants of Canaan. Readers of Xenophon’s ‘Anabasis ‘ will not fail to notice how often the passage of the rivers was a matter of the utmost difficulty to that expedition, and how fiercely attempts at crossing were disputed by the half savage tribes of Asia Minor. How are we to account for the fact that no opposition was offered to Joshua’s passage by the highly civilised nations of Palestine? According to the narrative before us it was effected in the most leisurely and peaceful manner. What other explanation is possible titan that offered in the text, that when the feet of the priests bearing the ark touched the waters, those waters were cut off by supernatural power, and a way was miraculously made for the people of God through the midst of Jordan? The crossing was remarkable enough, we are told, to have been commemorated by a double memorial (vers. 8, 9). If it had taken place through an unusually easy ford there would have been nothing remarkable about it. Therefore it is clear that the whole narrative of the crossing is either absolute fable or strictly and historically accurate. Let us conclude by summing up the several reasons which make the former alternative inadmissible. The first is the precision with which the date is fixed, and the fact that the correctness of this date is confirmed, as we have seen, by a variety of corroborative evidence. The next is the simplicity and artlessness of the narrative, and its appeal to still existing monuments as confirmatory of the facts recorded. The third is that no account of a battle at Jordan is even hinted at by the Hebrew or any other historian, a battle which must infallibly have taken place had the Israelites attempted to enter Palestine in any ordinary manner; for the supposition that the waters of the ford at Jericho were unusually low at this time is quite inadmissible for the reasons given above; nor can it be supposed that the Israelites crossed the river by any other ford without rejecting the whole history of the conquest. The last reason is the touch of detail given in the word XXX which seems to mark the transition from the soft adhesive mud of the river to the firmness of the dry land beyond (for the word translated “dry land” in chap. 3:17 only means that it was land and not water. Gesenius). Our witness, in fact, can be subjected to the severest cross examination without shaking his testimony. And we are thus compelled to choose between accepting the literal correctness of the narrative as it stands, or crediting the author with a skill in constructing a work of fiction which itself scarcely falls short of the miraculous.”
9.) The Lord is God.
Jos 22:34, “And the sons of Reuben and the sons of Gad called the altar Witness; “For,” they said, “it is a witness between us that the LORD is God.”
Pulpit Commentary
Verse 34. – Ed. This word is not in the original. It is found in some late MSS. and in the Syriac and Arabic versions, but not in the LXX. or Chaldee. Even in the MSS. which have it, the word is found sometimes before and sometimes after the Hebrew word signifying “altar.” This may either be because, once omitted, it was conjecturally supplied, but it is more probable that it was never there at all. The passage may be rendered, “And the sons of Reuben and the sons of Gad gave a name to the altar, ‘for it is a witness between us.'” But it seems more likely that the word “Ed,” though not expressed, is in. tended to be understood. The LXX. and Vulgate give incorrect renderings of the passage. The Lord is God. Rather, as in 1 Kings 18:39, Jehovah is the God; that is, the one true God. Some MSS. have interpolated הוּא here from the above cited passage. Such altars, or mounds, of witness seem not to have been unusual among the Eastern nations (see Genesis 31:47-52).”
Psa 118:27, “The LORD is God, and He has given us light; bind the festival sacrifice to the horns of the
altar with cords.”
Pulpit Commentary
Verse 27. – God is the Lord, which hath showed us light. Having received the priestly benediction, the processionists resume their strain. They have entered within the courts; they are approaching the altar of sacrifice; they have brought their offering. “Jehovah,” they say, “is God, and hath given us light” (see the Revised Version). That is, he has enlightened our spirits to see and acknowledge his mercies; or, perhaps, he has led us, as he did the people, by a pillar of fire in the wilderness; and now we stand before the altar with our offering – receive it at our hands, ye priests-and bind the sacrifice with cords, even unto the horns of the altar. So shalt the act of thanksgiving be complete, and the solemn service ended. The fanciful exposition of Luther, lately revived by Professor Cheyne, will scarcely approve itself to critics generally. Psalm 118:27.”
10.) The Lord is Peace.
Jdg 6:24, “Then Gideon built an altar there to the
LORD and named it The LORD is Peace. To this day it is still in Ophrah of the Abiezrites.”
Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges
24. built an altar there] where the Deity had appeared; the patriarchs observed this custom, see Genesis 12:7; Genesis 26:25; Genesis 35:1. The altar with its name Jehovah is peace, i.e. well-disposed, commemorated the revelation; cf. the naming of an altar in Genesis 33:20; Genesis 35:7, Exodus 17:15 (all E). For Kittel’s interpretation of the episode see on Jdg 13:19. Perhaps Gideon’s experience conveyed to his mind a new religious idea. According to primitive belief, the Deity dwelt in a sacred tree or stone; but not in the terebinth or rock at Ophrah; the Messenger of Jehovah has no such dwelling; He comes as a traveller from some region that no one knows. Whether the burning of the sacrifice marked a change in religious practice is more doubtful. The foregoing narrative presents several difficulties. The inconsistent use of Jehovah in Jdg 6:14; Jdg 6:16 may be accounted for by a lapse from strict dramatic fitness on the part of the writer; but the expressions in Jdg 6:14; Jdg 6:16-17 which imply that Gideon recognized the Angel before Jdg 6:22, cannot perhaps be explained in this way. It has been suggested (1) that these expressions have been inserted by a later editor to emphasize from the first the divine nature of Gideon’s Visitor and the sacrificial character of the meal; or (2) that the confusion is due to a double version, Jdg 6:14 b do not I send thee, Jdg 6:16-17 b being assigned to E, the rest belonging to J. But the distinction between the sources cannot be made out with much success. It is possible to explain the difficulty in Jdg 6:17 b in the way attempted in the note; but we must allow that the present form of the narrative cannot be original.”
11.) The Lord is a God of knowledge.
1Sa 2:3, “Do not go on boasting so very proudly,
Do not let arrogance come out of your mouth;
For the LORD is a God of knowledge,
And with Him actions are weighed.”
Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges
1. arrogancy] The old form of the word arrogance (cp. innocency for innocence) from the Lat. arrogantia. It signifies “claiming more than one’s due,” “assumption,” “pride.” knowledge] The Heb. word is plural, denoting varied and extensive knowledge. by him actions are weighed] Jehovah knows the hearts of men and estimates men’s actions at their true value. See Proverbs 16:2; Proverbs 24:12. This explanation is probably right, but the Heb. may also be rendered, “His (i.e. God’s) actions are weighed,” or, “measured:” i.e. are just and right. Cp. the use of the same word in Ezekiel 18:25, “Is not my way equal?” “By him” is the Qrî or traditional read text. (See p. 14.) The Kthîbh or written text has “not” instead of “by him,” the words being similar in pronunciation though differently spelt. This may be rendered either, “though actions be not weighed,” or interrogatively, “and are not actions weighed?” 1 Samuel 2:3.”
12.) The Lord is King.
Psa 10:16, “The LORD is King forever and ever;
Nations have perished from His land.”
Pulpit Commentary
Verses 16-18. – Here begins the third part of the psalm. It is, as has been observed, “confident and triumphant.” The psalmist has, in the first part, shown the wickedness of the ungodly; in the second, he has prayed for vengeance on them, and for the deliverance of their victims; in the third, he expresses his certainty that his prayer is heard, and that the punishment and deliverance for which he has prayed are as good as accomplished. Verse 16. – The Lord is King for ever and ever (comp. Psalm 29:10; Psalm 146:10). Thus God’s kingdom is established, his authority vindicated, his absolute rule over all men made manifest. Internal and external foes are alike overcome. The heathen – whether uncircumcised in the flesh or in the heart (Jeremiah 9:25, 26) – are perished out of his (Jehovah’s) land. Psalm 10:16.”
13.) The Lord is good and upright.
Psa 25:8, “The LORD is good and upright;
Therefore He instructs sinners in the way.”
Pulpit Commentary
Verse 8. – Good and upright is the Lord. A transition. From prayer the psalmist turns to reflection, and meditates awhile (vers. 8-10) on the character and ways of God. God is, indeed, “good,” as he has implied in the preceding verse – i.e., kind, tender, gentle, merciful; but he is also “upright” (יָשָׁר) – just, straight, strict, undeviating from the path of right. As Bishop Butler observes, “Divine goodness, with which, if I mistake not, we make very free in our speculations, may not be a bare single disposition to produce happiness, but a disposition to make the good, the faithful, the honest man happy” (‘Anal.,’ 1:2, p. 41) – s disposition, i.e., to be just as well as merciful to distribute happiness by the canon of right. Therefore will he teach sinners in the way. He will not abandon sinners – this is his “goodness;” but will reclaim them, chasten them, make them to walk in his way – this is his uprightness. Psalm 25:8.”
14.) The Lord is near to the brokenhearted.
Psa 34:18, “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted
and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible
The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart,…. Who are pressed and bore down with afflictions, by the sorrow of heart under which their spirits are broken, Proverbs 15:13; or with a sense of sin, and sorrow for it, for which their hearts smite them, and they are wounded by it, and broken with it: to these the Lord is “nigh”; not in a general way only, as he is to all men, being God omnipresent, but in a special manner; he comes and manifests himself to them in a gracious way, pours in the oil and wine of his love, and binds up their broken hearts; yea, comes and dwells with them: he does not pass by them and neglect them, much less make the breach worse; he does not break the bruised reeds, but he heals their breaches;
and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit; not in a legal, but in an evangelical way; who are humbled under a sense of sin, and melted down in true repentance, under a view of the love and grace of God; and are poor and mean in their own eyes: to these the Lord has respect; the sacrifices of a broken and contrite spirit are not despised by him, but accepted through faith in Christ; and such he saves with an everlasting salvation in him.”
15.) The Lord is just.
Psa 92:15, “To declare that the LORD is just;
He is my rock, and there is no malice in Him.”
Benson Commentary
Psalm 92:15. To show that the Lord is upright, &c. — That he is true to his promises, and faithful to every word that he hath spoken, and therefore does not leave nor forsake those that cleave to him, but carries on the work which he has begun. As it is by his promises that believers first partake of a divine nature, so it is by his promises that that divine nature is preserved and maintained, and therefore the power it exerts is an evidence that the Lord is upright, and such he will show himself to be with an upright man, Psalm 18:25. He is my rock — I have chosen him for my rock, on which to build my confidence and hopes for time and eternity, and in the clefts of which to take shelter in the time of danger: and I have found him a rock, strong and steadfast, and his word firm and stable. And there is no unrighteousness in him — He is as able, and will be as kind, as his word represents him to be. All that ever trusted in God have found him faithful and all-sufficient, and none were ever made ashamed of their hope in him. He is just and upright in his dealings with his intelligent creatures, “immoveable in his counsels, and determined to punish the wicked and reward the good; so that, when his proceedings shall come to be unfolded at the last day, it will appear to men and angels that there is no unrighteousness in him.” — Horne.”
16.) The Lord is a great God.
Psa 95:3, “For the LORD is a great God and a great King above all gods.”
Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges
2. The thoughts of the greatness of Jehovah, of His sovereignty, and of His supremacy over the gods of the heathen, are characteristic of this group of Psalms. They are not new thoughts (Exodus 15:11; Exodus 15:18), but fresh reality had been given to them by His revelation of Himself in the humiliation of Babylon and its gods, and the deliverance of Israel. That the Psalmist attributes any real existence to the gods of the heathen is not to be supposed. They are mere idols, things of nought (Psalm 96:5), gods in name but not in reality. He cannot have gone back from the teaching of Jeremiah 10:3 ff., in which the living God, the Eternal King, the Creator, is contrasted with helpless perishable idols; or have forgotten the scathing sarcasms of Isaiah 40:18 ff; Isaiah 44:9 ff. 3–5. The reason for this service:—His greatness as the supreme King, the Lord of the world.”
17.) The Lord is good.
Psa 100:5, “For the LORD is good;
His mercy is everlasting and His faithfulness is to all generations.”
Barnes’ Notes on the Bible
For the Lord is good – For good is Yahweh. That is, He is not a being of mere “power;” he is not merely the Creator; but he is benevolent, and is, therefore, worthy of universal praise. In the former verses, his claim to adoration is founded on the fact that he is the “Creator,” and has, as such, a right to our service; in this verse, the claim is asserted on account of his moral character:
(1) his benevolence;
(2) his mercy;
(3) his truth;
(a) the fact that he is a God of truth; and
(b) the fact that his truth endures, or that in all generations he shows himself to be faithful to his promises.
The first of these is his “benevolence:” “The Lord is good.” As such, assuredly, God is worthy of praise and honor. A being of “mere” power we could not love or praise; a being whose power was united with malignity or malevolence, could only be the object of hatred and terror; but a being whose power is united with goodness or benevolence ought to he loved.
His mercy is everlasting – This is the “second” reason, drawn from his moral character, why he should be praised and adored. A being of mere “justice” may be feared and respected; but a character of “mere” justice would be to man an object of dread – and may be so anywhere. There are other attributes than the one of “justice,” high and valuable as that may be, which are necessary to constitute a perfect character; and man, in order to find happiness and security, must find some other attribute in God than mere “justice,” for man is a sinner, and needs pardon; he is a sufferer, and needs compassion; he is to die, and needs support and consolation. Besides, mere “justice” may drive its decisions over some of the kindest and tenderest feelings of human nature, for there are cases, under all administrations, where pardon is desirable and mercy is proper. It is, therefore, a ground of unspeakable joy for man that God is not a Being of “mere justice,” but that there is mingled in his character the attribute of mercy and kindness. But for this, man could have no hope; for, as a sinner, he has no claim on God, and all his hope must be derived from God’s infinite compassion. To all this as a ground of praise is to be added the fact that this mercy of God is “everlasting.” Its fruits – its results – will extend to the vast eternity before us; and in all that eternity we shall never cease to enjoy the benefits of that mercy; never be suffered to fall back on the mere “justice” of God.
And his truth endureth to all generations – Margin, as in Hebrew, “to generation and generation.” That is, forever. It is the same in every generation of the world. This is the third reason derived from the moral character of God for praising him; and this is a just ground of praise. We could not love and honor a God who was not true to his promises, and who did not himself love the truth; we could not honor one who was changeable and flexible – who loved one thing in one generation and a different thing in the next; who in one age was the friend of truth, and in the next the patron of falsehood. It is the just foundation for praise to God – our God – that he is essentially and always – in all worlds, and in all the generations of people – toward all in the universe – a Being of unchangeable benevolence, mercy, and truth. Such a God is worthy to be had in universal reverence; such a God is worthy of universal praise.”
Psa 145:9, “The LORD is good to all,
and His mercies are over all His works.”
Remember the Words of Jesus, Mar 10:18,
But Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good except God alone.”
Pulpit Commentary
Verse 18. – Why callest thou me good? According to the best authorities, the words in St. Matthew (Matthew 21:17) run thus: “Why askest thou me concerning that which is good? One there is who is good.” The word “good” is the pivot on which our Lord’s answer turns, both in St. Matthew and here. The question is doubtless put to test the young ruler’s faith. If, as may be supposed, the young man used the term, “good Master,” as a mere conventional expression, it was not the proper epithet to apply to our Lord, who at once transfers the praise and the goodness to God, that he might teach us to do the same. This ruler, by his mode of accosting our Lord, showed that he had not as yet a right faith in him – that he did not believe in his Godhead. Our Lord, therefore, desired to rouse him and lift him up to a higher faith. He seems to say to him, “If you call me good, believe that I am God; for no one is good, intrinsically good, but God. God alone is essentially good, and wise, and powerful, and holy. It is from him that angels and men derive a few drops, or rather some faint adumbration, of his goodness. There is none essentially, entirely, absolutely good but one, that is, God. Therefore seek after him, love him, imitate him. He alone can satisfy your longing desires, as in this life with his grace, so in the life to come with his glory; yea, with himself. For in heaven he manifested himself as the supreme good, to be tasted and enjoyed by the blessed for ever.” Mark 10:18.”
Psa 135:3, “Praise the LORD, for the LORD is good;
Sing praises to His name, for it is lovely.”
Jer 33:11, “the voice of joy and the voice of gladness, the voice of the groom and the voice of the bride, the voice of those who say, “Give thanks to the LORD of armies, for the LORD is good, for His mercy is everlasting,”
as they bring a thanksgiving offering into the house
of the LORD. For I will restore the fortunes of the
land as they were at first,’ says the LORD.”
Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible
The voice of joy, and the voice of gladness,…. Such is the voice of the Gospel to all sensible sinners; whose eyes are opened to see their lost estate; whose ears are opened to hear the joyful sound: whose hearts are opened to attend to the things spoken in it; who are humble and contrite, wounded and broken in spirit, and have a spiritual understanding of things given them: to these the Gospel preached is glad tidings of great joy; since it contains in it the doctrines of peace and pardon through the blood of Christ; of justification through his righteousness; of rest in him, and salvation by him. It is a voice of joy and gladness to all believers in Christ; since hereby they hear of Christ whom they love; they hear of the love of God in him, and of the love of him to them; it is food to their souls; and when found, under the hearing of it, it is the joy and rejoicing of their hearts; and whereas they are continually sinning in thought, word, or deed, the doctrine of pardon must be joyful to them. Moreover, this may be meant of the voice of those that come to the church of God, with songs of joy and gladness, for electing, redeeming, calling, pardoning, and justifying grace; the voice of young converts, and of all them that rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh; see Isaiah 35:10; and why may not the ordinance of singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, be included? since those are enjoined to be sung, and are sung in Gospel churches, Ephesians 5:19;
the voice of the bridegroom, and the voice of the bride; which, literally understood, is expressive of great joy and happiness; as the contrary signifies great calamity and distress; see Jeremiah 7:34. It may be understood of such who are in such a natural relation to one another; and yet their voice may intend their joining together in spiritual praise to God. Moreover, by the “bridegroom” may be meant Christ, who has espoused his people to himself, and is their husband, and behaves as such towards them, in all tenderness, care, love, and affection; and his voice was heard in Judea’s land as the bridegroom; John heard it, and rejoiced at it, and so did many others; see Matthew 9:15, John 3:29; and the Gospel indeed is no other than his voice; and a soul quickening, soul comforting, and soul alluring, and charming voice it is. And by the “bride” may be meant the church, who is the bride, the Lamb’s wife, being married to him; whose voice of prayer and praise to Christ, and of encouragement to sensible sinners, is heard in Zion, and is very desirable, Sol 2:14;
the voice of them that shall say, praise the Lord of hosts; the husband of his church, and Redeemer of his people, and who is the sovereign Lord of all; the voice of such is heard, who stir up others to this work and service, and enforce it by the reasons following:
for the Lord is good; originally and essentially in himself, and the fountain of goodness to others; the good Head and Husband of his church; the good Samaritan: the good Shepherd of his sheep, and Saviour of his people:
for his mercy endureth for ever; it is from everlasting to everlasting; in his love and pity he has redeemed his church; and this is seen in his tender care of her, and will endure to eternal life: these words seem to be taken out of Psalm 106:1; and were used by the Jews at the laying of the foundation of the second temple, Ezra 3:11;
and of them that shall bring the sacrifice of praise into the house of the Lord; the church of the living God, the materials of which are lively stones, or true believers in Christ; into which none should enter without an offering; and this should be a spiritual one, the sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving; which God has enjoined as well pleasing to him, because it glorifies him. This shows that this prophecy belongs to Gospel times; since no other sacrifice is mentioned as brought into the house of God but the sacrifice of praise. And remarkable is the note of Kimchi on this passage;
“he does not say a sin offering, or a trespass offering, because at this time there will be no ungodly persons and sinners among them, for they shall all know the Lord. And so our Rabbins of blessed memory say, all offerings shall cease in time to come (the times of the Messiah) but the sacrifice of praise;”
for I will cause to return the captivity of the land as at the first,
saith the Lord: a release from spiritual captivity, or redemption by Christ; being the foundation of all solid joy, praise, and thanksgiving.”
Jer 33:11, “the voice of joy and the voice of gladness, the voice of the groom and the voice of the
bride, the voice of those who say, “Give thanks to
the LORD of armies, for the LORD is good,
for His mercy is everlasting,” as they bring a thanksgiving offering into the house of the LORD. For I will restore the fortunes of the land as they were at first,’ says the LORD.”
Nah 1:7, “The LORD is good, a stronghold in
the day of trouble, and He knows those who take refuge in Him.”
Matthew Poole’s Commentary
The Lord is good; though so terrible to his enemies, to obstinate sinners, yet he is as gentle, kind, and good to his people, to Israel; so the Chaldee paraphrast. Is good; in his just severity he continueth to be good. None of that consuming anger comes from any want of goodness in God; yea, it is as much an effect of his goodness, as just punishments on incorrigible malefactors are the effects of goodness in a judge or magistrate. But here the prophet intends rather the kindness and grace of God towards his people, to whom he doth good, and will do more. Psalm 73:1 119:68. A strong hold; it might have been rendered, good to be a strong hold, as the Hebrew affix imports, and is sometimes rendered. Though Israel seems to be exposed to the violence of enemies, and to be without any munition or fortress, yet verily the Lord their God is for a defence and fortress to them, Psalm 31:3 61:3 Proverbs 18:10, and is their strength also in that fortress. In the day of trouble; at all times of affliction and danger, when outward pressures fill us with anguish and fears. Knoweth; discerneth, approveth, owneth, and will make it appear that he doth preserve, that he may deliver his peculiar ones. He knows the wicked, and will restrain, rebuke, and destroy them; he knows the good, and will protect, rescue, and save them. Them; whether you consider them in a body and community, or by themselves apart, or singly. That trust; believe, depend, and wait on God, they that depend by faith, and wait with hope. In him; on God, or on Christ, or on the word and promise of God. So God was to those that trusted in his word of promise in Hezekiah’s time.”
18.) The Lord is compassionate and gracious.
Psa 103:8, “The LORD is compassionate and gracious,
slow to anger and abounding in mercy.”
Barnes’ Notes on the Bible
The Lord is merciful and gracious – See the notes at Psalm 78:38. The idea here is derived evidently from Exodus 34:6-7 – that great and glorious statement of God himself in regard to his own character. Our world is a different world under that statement from what it would be if that and kindred declarations had not been made. There is here a “progression” of thought; an “advance” on the previous statements. At first the psalmist referred to his own individual experience Psalm 103:3-5; then he referred to the dealings of God toward the Hebrew people Psalm 103:6-7; and now he rises to the general contemplation of his character as it relates to all mankind. It was a characteristic of God in respect to all, that he was kind, compassionate, and forbearing.
Slow to anger – That is, patient; not soon excited; bearing much, and bearing it long. See James 5:11; compare Exodus 34:6-7.
And plenteous in mercy – Margin, “great of mercy.” The Hebrew word means “much,” or great;” and the idea is, that mercy is not manifested by him in small or stinted measure. It is rich; full; abundant; overflowing; free.”
Psa 111:4, “He has caused His wonders to be remembered;
The LORD is gracious and compassionate.”
On Psa 103:8, it says, “The LORD is compassionate and gracious.
On Psa 111:4, it says,
“The LORD is gracious and compassionate.”
Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges
3. He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered] Lit. made a memorial for his wonderful works, particularly the deliverance of His people from Egypt, by the continuous tradition which they were charged to hand on from one generation to another (Psalm 78:3; Exodus 12:26; &c.), and by the festivals and ordinances which commemorated that deliverance, especially the Passover (Exodus 12:14). But the words may also be rendered, He hath made (himself) a memorial by his wonderful works, won for Himself honour by them[70]. Cp. Nehemiah 9:10, “So thou didst get thee a name”; Exodus 14:4; Exodus 14:17. [70] Zçker, ‘memorial,’ is nearly equivalent to ‘name’ (Psalm 135:13, and often). gracious and full of compassion] Cp. Psalm 103:8. Fundamental attributes of Jehovah (Exodus 34:6) illustrated in the Exodus, and in all His dealings with Israel (Nehemiah 9:17; Nehemiah 9:31).”
Psa 145:8
The LORD is gracious and compassionate;
Slow to anger and great in mercy.”
19.) The Lord is high above all nations.
Psa 113:4, “The LORD is high above all nations;
His glory is above the heavens.”
Benson Commentary
Psalm 113:4-6. The Lord is high above all nations — Superior to all princes and bodies of people in the world; and his glory above the heavens — Whereas the glory of earthly monarchs is confined to this lower world, and to small pittances of it, the glory of God doth not only fill the earth, but heaven too, where it is celebrated by thousands and myriads of blessed angels; yea, it is far higher than heaven, being infinite and incomprehensible, Who is like unto the Lord? — Hebrew, Jehovah, who dwelleth on high — Namely, far above all heavens, and is exalted, as in place, so in power and dignity, above all persons and things, visible and invisible. Who humbleth himself, &c. — Who is so high, that it is a wonderful condescension in him to take any notice of his holy and heavenly hosts, and much more of sinful and miserable men upon earth.”
20.) The Lord is the Sustainer of my soul.
Psa 54:4, “Behold, God is my helper;
The Lord is the Sustainer of my soul.”
If we have to sustain our soul, we will be lost.
Pulpit Commentary
Verse 4. – Behold, God is mine Helper. There is a pause between vers. 3 and 4, indicated by the pause-mark, “Selah.” Then, confident of his prayer having been heard, the psalmist breaks out into a joyous burst of thankfulness and self-gratulation (vers. 4-7). The Lord is with them that uphold my soul; rather, of them (Revised Version); i.e. “one of them.” But the intention is not to place God on a par with other helpers. Rather, as Professor Cheyne remarks, it is to make him the representative of” the class of helpers.” Psalm 54:4.”
21.) The Lord is great.
Psa 135:5, “For I know that the LORD is great
and that our Lord is above all gods.”
Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible
For I know that the Lord is great,…. Jehovah the Father is great in his perfections; in his power, wisdom, faithfulness, grace, and goodness; and in his works of creation, providence, and grace: and so is Jehovah the Son, who seems chiefly designed, who is called “our Lord” or “Adon” in the next clause; he is great, having the same perfections his Father has; and doing the same works, besides the miracles he wrought here on earth, and the great work of our redemption: he is the great God and our Saviour, and a great Saviour he is; and indeed he is great in all his offices of Prophet, Priest, and King: and so is the blessed Spirit, who is equal to the Father and Son, and greater than he that is in the world. Now all this the psalmist could say from his own knowledge; he knew the Lord was great, from the consideration and meditation of his wondrous works; he knew the greatness of Christ, from the revelation made to him of his person, offices, and grace; he knew the greatness of the divine Spirit, from the inward experience of his upon his heart, as well as from his being divinely inspired by him; and because of this greatness of the Lord, as well as his goodness, he is to be praised; it is mentioned as a reason of it;
and that our Lord is above all gods; the Lord our righteousness; Immanuel, God with us: our Lord, not only by right of creation, but of redemption; he is above all that the Heathens called gods, even the greatest of them; not the idols their hands made only, but the heavens and all the host of them, the sun, moon, and stars; his glory is above them, being the Maker of them, as God; and he is made higher than they, as man and Mediator: he is above civil magistrates, princes, and kings of the earth, called gods, Psalm 82:5; he is King of kings, and Lord of lords, he is higher than they; by him they reign, and to him they are accountable; and he is above the angels, sometimes called “Elohim”, or gods, Psalm 8:5; he has a more excellent name and nature than they; he is the Creator of them, the object of their worship, to whom they minister, whose servants they are; and he is now exalted above them in the human nature, at the right hand of God; see Hebrews 1:4.”
22.) The Lord is exalted.
Psa 138:6, “For the LORD is exalted,
yet He looks after the lowly,
but He knows the haughty from afar.”
Barnes’ Notes on the Bible
Though the Lord be high – This might be rendered “For lofty is Yahweh – and the humble he sees – and the proud he knows from afar.” The idea is, that God – so high and exalted – sees and knows all of every rank among people. The mind of the psalmist had been impressed with a sense of the greatness and majesty of God, but (as if it might be said that one so great could not regard man, so humble and insignificant) he adds, that the fact of God’s exaltation does not prevent his noticing the affairs of people: that the lowly in life need not fear lest they should be overlooked; the proud need not hope that they will escape the notice of his eye.
Yet hath he respect unto the lowly – Those in humble life; the obscure; the unknown. It does not mean here that he has any special favor toward them, but merely that he sees them. Their low and obscure condition does not prevent his observing them, and they need have no fear that he will overlook them, or that they will be forgotten. Compare the notes at James 4:6; notes at 1 Peter 5:5.
But the proud – Those of lofty rank, and of lofty feelings; the haughty.
He knoweth afar off – From afar. Though he is exalted – though he is in heaven – yet he is not so far removed but that he sees them, and knows them altogether. Distance from him is no protection for them; nor can the wicked hope to escape notice from the fact that God reigns over distant worlds.”
Isa 33:5, “The LORD is exalted, for He dwells on high;
He has filled Zion with justice and righteousness.”
Benson Commentary
Isaiah 33:5-6. The Lord is exalted — By the destruction of so potent an army, and by the defence of his people. For he dwelleth on high — He is, and will appear to be, superior to his enemies, both in place and power. He dwelleth in heaven, whence he can easily and irresistibly pour down judgments upon his enemies. He hath fulfilled — Or, he will fill Zion — Or Jerusalem; with judgment and righteousness — That is, either, 1st, With a glorious instance of his just judgment against the Assyrians; or, 2d, With the execution of justice by good Hezekiah, and the practice of righteousness among the people, as before the same city was filled with impiety and injustice under Ahaz. The city shall not only be delivered from that wicked enemy, but shall also be established and blessed with true religion and righteousness; which was a great addition to that mercy. And wisdom and knowledge — To govern thyself and the people well. The words seem to be addressed to Hezekiah, either by the prophet, or, as Bishop Lowth thinks, by a chorus of the Jews. Shall be the stability of thy times — Of thy reign; times being often put for the things done in those times, The sense is, thy throne shall be established upon the sure foundations of wisdom and justice; and strength of salvation — Thy saving strength, or thy strong and mighty salvation. The fear of the Lord is his treasure — Thy chief treasure and delight shall be in promoting the fear and worship of God, which shall be a great honour and safeguard to thyself and people.”
23.) The Lord is faithful.
Psa 145:13, “Your Kingdom is an everlasting Kingdom,
And Your dominion endures throughout all
generations. The LORD is faithful in His Words,
and holy in all His works.”
Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges
13. This verse is found also, in Aramaic, in Daniel 4:3, cp. 34 (Aram. Dan. 3:33, Daniel 4:31). an everlasting kingdom] Lit. a kingdom of all the ages, past alike and future. With the LXX βασιλεία πάντων τῶν αἰωνων, cp. 1 Timothy 1:17 τῷ βασιλεῖ τῶν αἰώνων, ‘unto the king of the ages.’ See also Psalm 10:16; Psalm 29:10; Exodus 15:18; Jeremiah 10:10. throughout all generations] In (or over) generation and generation, each successive generation. The verse beginning with Nûn, which is missing in the Hebrew text, is thus supplied in the LXX and Versions dependent on it, and in the Syr.; Faithful Is the Lord in [all] his words, And holy in all his works[86]. [86] πιστὸς Κύριος ἐν [πᾶσιν, אc.a RT] τοῖς λόγοις αὐτοῦ, καὶ ὅσιος ἐν πᾶσι τοῖς ἔργοις αὐτοῦ. The Heb. found in the lower margin of one late Heb. MS נֶאֱמָן יְהֹוָה בְּכָל־דְּבָוָיו וְחָסִיד בְּל־מַעֲשָׂיו is probably only a re-translation from the LXX. If this verse is genuine, it must have been lost at an early date, for it is not found in any of the later versions[87]. Against its genuineness it is argued that the first line is suggested by the occurrence of the word for ‘faithful’ (nĕ’emân) in the same position in Psalm 111:7 b, and by the language of Deuteronomy 7:9, and that the second line is simply taken from Psalm 145:17. It may however be genuine. It is not likely that the Nûn verse was originally omitted: it was not necessary for the LXX to supply it: and the Psalm contains many imitations and is not free from repetitions. [87] The verse is given in Lagarde’s ed. of Jerome’s Version; but it is not found in some good MSS and is obelised in others, and is probably an interpolation from the Vulg. with which it agrees exactly.”
2 Th 3:3, “But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.”
Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges
3. But the Lord is faithful] In the Greek order, But faithful is the Lord. Man’s want of faith suggests by contrast the faithfulness of our Divine Lord (Faith and Faithfulness are alike denoted by pistis in Greek; as Believing and Faithful—Trusting and Trusty—alike by pistos). Comp., for this contrast, Romans 3:3; 2 Timothy 2:13. “The Lord” appears to be throughout these Epistles the Lord Christ, Ruler and Defender of His people. Comp. 2 Timothy 4:17, “The Lord stood by me … The Lord shall save me into His heavenly kingdom.” So he continues: who will establish you, and guard you from the Evil One. On “stablish,” see notes to 1 Thessalonians 3:2; 1 Thessalonians 3:13, and ch. 2 Thessalonians 2:17 above. It denotes the settled, steady confidence which this young Church required, assailed by persecution from without and alarms from within. While the unbelief of men made the Apostle think of the faith-keeping Lord, behind these “evil men” (2 Thessalonians 3:2) he saw another and mightier enemy,—“the Evil One” (R.V.). The Greek adjective may be read either in the neuter (the evil, evil in general), as by A.V. and R.V. margin; or in the masculine, as by the R.V. text. There is the same ambiguity in the words of the Lord’s Prayer, and in the Sacramental Prayer of Jesus (Matthew 6:13; John 17:15); in which instances also the Revisers, rightly as we think, prefer the personal rendering. Both our Lord and the Apostle John, in passages where the termination of the adjective is unequivocal—Matthew 13:19; 1 John 2:13-14; 1 John 5:18—point out the Evil One as the enemy of Christ and His people and injurer of their work; and in Ephesians 6:16, while the grammatical form is ambiguous, it is “the Evil One” who shoots “the fire-tipped darts.” So, surely, here; and in the two prayers of Jesus, echoed seemingly in this passage. The conflict of the Church and of the Christian life is not a matter of principles alone and abstract forces; it is a personal encounter, and behind all forces there are living wills. This is the plain teaching of Christ and the New Testament. The Evil One is “the Satan” of ch. 2 Thessalonians 2:9; 1 Thessalonians 2:18; and “the Tempter” of 1 Thessalonians 3:5. “The Lord will guard you;” comp. the words of Jesus in John 17:12, “I guarded them (the disciples), and not one of them perished, except the son of perdition.” Like rescue (2 Thessalonians 3:2), guard is a military word, implying conflict and armed protection: Vulgate, custodiet. Though St Paul began by asking the Thessalonians to pray for him, yet “it is plain that he was more anxious for them than for himself” (Calvin). Their safety is ensured by the Lord’s fidelity: but it requires their own obedience; and this the Apostle counts upon:—”
24.) The Lord is near to all who call on Him.
Psa 145:18, “The LORD is near to all who call on Him,
to all who call on Him in truth.”
Pulpit Commentary
Verse 18. – The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him (comp. Deuteronomy 4:7; Psalm 34:18; Psalm 46:1; Psalm 119:151, etc.). God draws near to those who draw near to him; i.e. he makes his presence (which is always everywhere) felt by them. To all that call upon him in truth. A limiting clause. Mere formal prayer is useless, does not lessen the distance between God and man, rather augments it. If we really desire to enjoy the consciousness of his presence, we must call upon him “in truth,” i.e. sincerely, with earnest desire and strong confidence. Psalm 145:18.”
25.) The Lord is far from the wicked.
Pro 15:29, “The LORD is far from the wicked,
But He hears the prayer of the righteous.”
Benson Commentary
Proverbs 15:29. The Lord is far from the wicked — They set him at defiance, and therefore he sets himself at a distance from them; they say to the Almighty, Depart from us, and he accordingly does depart, and is far from them; he does not manifest himself to them, has no communion with them, will not hear them when they cry to him, nor help them, no, not in the time of their need; and they shall be for ever banished from his presence, and he will behold them afar off to all eternity; but he heareth the prayer of the righteous — He will draw near to those in a way of mercy, who draw near to him in a way of duty; he hears and accepts their prayers, and will grant an answer of peace; he is nigh to them, even a present help, in all that which they call upon him for.”
26.) The Lord is the Maker of them all.
Pro 22:2, “The rich and the poor have a common bond,
the LORD is the Maker of them all.”
Pulpit Commentary
Verse 2. – The rich and poor meet together (Proverbs 29:13): the Lord is the Maker of them all (Job 34:19). God has ordained that there shall be rich and poor in the world, and that they should meet in the intercourse of life. These social inequalities are ordered for wise purposes; the one helps the other. The labour of the poor makes the wealth of the rich; the wealth of the rich enables him to employ and aid the poor. Their common humanity, their fatherhood in God, should make them regard one another as brethren, without distinction of rank or position: the rich should not despise the poor (Proverbs 14:31; Proverbs 17:5; Job 31:15), the poor should not envy the rich (Proverbs 3:31), but all should live in love and harmony as one great family of God. Proverbs 22:2.”
27.) The Lord is our Judge.
Isa 33:22, “For the LORD is our judge,
The LORD is our lawgiver,
The LORD is our king;
He will save us—.”
Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible
For the Lord is our Judge,…. The Lord Christ, who has all judgment committed to him by the Father, who will judge his people, right their wrongs, and avenge their injuries:
the Lord is our Lawgiver; who has enacted wholesome laws for his church, writes them on their hearts, and puts his Spirit within them, to enable them to keep them:
the Lord is our King: King of saints, King of Zion, made so by his Father, owned by his church, under whose government it is in safety:
he will save us; from all sin, and from all enemies, with an everlasting salvation. The church here speaks with great pleasure of her interest in Christ under every character, and of her safety as depending upon him. The Targum is,
“the Lord is our Judge, who brought us by his power out of Egypt; the Lord is our teacher, who gave us the doctrine of the law from Sinai; the Lord is our King, he will redeem us, and take vengeance of judgment for us on the army of Gog;”
which shows that the ancient Jews understood this prophecy as referring to times yet to come.”
28.) The Lord is the true God.
Jer 10:10, “But the LORD is the true God;
He is the living God and the everlasting King.
The earth quakes at His wrath,
and the nations cannot endure His indignation.”
Matthew Poole’s Commentary
The Lord is the true God: q. d. All these are but false gods: Jehovah is the alone true God; they are but lies, and the teachers of lies. God is truth itself, and that both in regard of his essence, as it is ascribed to Christ, 1Jo 5:20; and also in regard of his faithfulness, Numbers 23:19 Psalm 31:5. He is the living God; these are all but dead stocks and stones, Jehovah is the only living God, having life in himself, and giving life to all things else, John 5:21,26. Hence these idols are not only more base than any other creature, but even viler than the matter itself of which they are made. An everlasting King: these, though accounted kings, and countenanced by kings, yet both they and their kings do all perish; time devours them all with worm or rust, or by injuries and violence offered to them, as in the next verse; but none of these or any thing else can affect the true God, he is everlasting. At his wrath the earth shall tremble; he can with his look or frown make the foundations of the heaven and the earth to shake, whereas these stocks can move them no more than they can themselves, which is not one hair’s breadth from their stations. The nations shall not be able to abide his indignation; not able either to stop it or bear it, but must stoop and fall under it, Psalm 76:7; the wicked will not be able to stand in judgment, Psalm 1:5.
29.) The Lord is our righteousness.
Jer 33:16, “In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety; and this is the name by which it will be called: the LORD is our righteousness.”
Matthew Poole’s Commentary
In those days shall Judah be saved, and Jerusalem shall dwell safely: it is the opinion of some that a spiritual salvation and security is promised under these expressions, but the most and best interpreters rather understand it of a temporal salvation as primarily intended, though typical of that spiritual and eternal salvation which is often promised to the true Israel of God; as their rest in Canaan typified that rest which remaineth for the people of God. And this is the name wherewith she shall be called, The Lord our righteousness: our translation of this phrase is something strange, the words in the Hebrew are hl adqy hx wgqa hwxy Pagnine translateth them, and he who shall call it the Lord our righteousness, supplying the verb substantive, is: He who shall call it is the Lord our righteousness. We translate it, this is the name wherewith it shall be called, &c.; that which causes the difficulty is, that the pronoun hz which signifieth he, is applied both to persons and things, and translated he or it, and the relative dva is of all cases, so may be translated who, or which, or with which; those words which our translators have supplied, is the name, are not in the Hebrew. This hath made a great doubt amongst interpreters, whether The Lord our righteousness be the name of Christ, or the name of the city. I do incline to their opinion who think that it is here mentioned as the name of Christ. In that sense there is nothing to be understood but the verb substantive, is, which is ordinarily understood; so the words are thus, and he who shall call it, is, the Lord our righteousness. The context seemeth to favour this, Christ being that Ruler mentioned Jeremiah 33:15, as he who shall execute justice and judgment in the land; besides that, there is no such name any where given, either to the Jewish or Christian church, as the Lord our righteousness, but the full import of that name is spoken of Christ, Isaiah 45:23, which text is applied to Christ, Romans 14:11 Philippians 2:10; he is called the just King, Zechariah 9:9, and our righteousness, 1 Corinthians 1:30.
Rom 3:22, “but it is the righteousness of God
through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction.”
Barnes’ Notes on the Bible
Even the righteousness of God – The apostle, having stated that the design of the gospel was to reveal a new plan of becoming just in the sight of God, proceeds here more fully to explain it. The explanation which he offers, makes it plain that the phrase so often used by him, “righteousness of God,” does not refer to an attribute of God, but to his plan of making people righteous. Here he says that it is by faith in Jesus Christ; but surely an attribute of God is not produced by faith in Jesus Christ. It means God’s mode of regarding people as righteous through their belief in Jesus Christ.
(That the “righteousness of God” cannot be explained of the attribute of justice, is obvious enough. It cannot be said of divine justice, that it is “unto and upon all them that believe.” But we are not reduced to the alternative of explaining the phrase, either of God’s justice, or God’s plan of justifying people. Why may we not understand it of that righteousness which Yahweh devised, Jesus executed, and the Spirit applies; and which is therefore justly denominated the righteousness of God? It consists in that conformity to law which Jesus manifested in his atoning death, and meritorious obedience. His death, by reason of his divine nature, was of infinite value. And when he voluntarily submitted to yield a life that was forfeited by no transgression of his own, the Law, in its penal part, was more magnified than if every descendant of Adam had sunk under the weight of its vengeance.
Nor was the preceptive part of the Law less honored, in the spotless obedience of Christ. He abstained from every sin, fulfilled every duty, and exemplified every virtue. Neither God nor man could accuse him of failure in duty. To God he gave his piety, to man his glowing love, to friends his heart, to foes his pity and his pardon. And by the obedience of the Creator in human form, the precept of the Law was more honored than if the highest angels had come down to do reverence to it, in presence of people. Here then is a righteousness worthy of the name, divine, spotless, broad, lasting – beyond the power of language to characterize. It is that everlasting righteousness which Daniel predicted the Messiah should bring in. Adam’s righteousness failed and passed away. That of once happy angels perished too, but this shall endure. “The heavens,” says Yahweh,” shall vanish away like smoke, and the earth shall wax old like a garment, and they that dwell therein shall die in like manner, but my salvation shall be forever, and my righteousness shall not be abolished,” This righteousness is broad enough to cover every sinner and every sin. It is pure enough to meet the eye of God himself. It is therefore the sinner’s only shield. See the note at Romans 1:17, for the true meaning of the expression “righteousness of God.”)
By faith of Jesus Christ – That is, by faith in Jesus Christ. Thus, the expression, Mark 11:22, “Have the faith of God” (margin), means, have faith in God. So Acts 3:16, the “faith of his name” “(Greek),” means, faith in his name. So Galatians 2:20, the “faith of the Son of God” means, faith in the Son of God. This cannot mean that faith is the meritorious cause of salvation, but that it is the instrument or means by which we become justified. It is the state of mind, or condition of the heart, to which God has been pleased to promise justification. (On the nature of faith see the note at Mark 16:16.) God has promised that they who believe in Christ shall be pardoned and saved. This is his plan in distinction from the plan of those who seek to be justified by works.
Unto all and upon all – It is evident that these expressions are designed to be emphatic, but why both are used is not very apparent. Many have supposed that there was no essential difference in the meaning. If there be a difference, it is probably this: the first expression, “unto all” εἰς πᾶς eis pas, may denote that this plan of justification has come “(Luther)” unto all men, to Jews and Gentiles; that is, that it has been provided for them, and offered to them without distinction. The plan was ample for all, was suited for all, was equally necessary for all, and was offered to all. The second phrase, “upon all” ἐπὶ πᾶντας epi pantas, , may be designed to guard against the supposition that all therefore would be benefited by it, or be saved by the mere fact that the announcement had come to all. The apostle adds therefore, that the benefits of this plan must actually come upon all, or must be applied to all, if they would be justified. They could not be justified merely by the fact that the plan was provided, and that the knowledge of it had come to all, but by their actually coming under this plan, and availing themselves of it. Perhaps there is reference in the last expression, “upon all,” to a robe, or garment, that is placed upon one to hide his nakedness, or sin; compare Isaiah 64:6, also Philippians 3:9.
For there is no difference – That is, there is no difference in regard to the matter under discussion. The apostle does not mean to say that there is no difference in regard to the talents, dispositions, education, and property of people; but there is no distinction in regard to the way in which they must be justified. All must be saved, if saved at all, in the same mode, whether Jews or Gentiles, bond or free, rich or poor, learned or ignorant. None can be saved by works; and all are therefore dependent on the mercy of God in Jesus Christ.”
30.) The Lord is a God of retribution.
Jer 51:56, “For the destroyer is coming against her, against Babylon, and her warriors will be captured,
their bows shattered; for the LORD is a God of retribution, He will fully repay.”
Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible
Because the spoiler is come upon her, even upon Babylon,…. That is, Cyrus, with his army:
and her mighty men are taken; unawares, by surprise:
everyone of their bows is broken; they had no strength to withstand the enemy, and were obliged to yield at once; lay down their arms, and submit:
for the Lord God of recompences shall surely requite; that God to whom vengeance belongs, and will recompense it; who is a God of justice and equity, the Judge of all the earth; he will render tribulation to them that trouble his; and requite his enemies and the enemies of his people, in a righteous manner, for all the evil they have done, as literal, so mystical Babylon; see Revelation 18:6.”
31.) The Lord is good to those who await Him
Lam 3:25, “The LORD is good to those who await Him,
to the person who seeks Him.”
Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible
The Lord is good to them that wait for him,…. For the enjoyment of him as their portion in this world, and in that to come; for his presence here and hereafter; which they are sometimes now deprived of, but should wait patiently for it; since he has his set time to arise and favour them with it; to such is he “good” communicatively, and in a special way and manner. They that wait for him shall not be ashamed, or disappointed of what they expect; they shall renew their spiritual strength, and grow stronger and stronger; they shall inherit the earth, the new heavens and the new earth; enjoy many blessings now, and have good things laid up for them hereafter, eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Isaiah 49:23; perhaps some regard may be had to the coming of Christ in the flesh, which the saints then expected, and were waiting for in faith and hope; to whom the Lord was good and gracious in due time, by performing the mercy promised them, Isaiah 25:9;
to the soul that seeketh him; that seeketh him aright; that seeks him by prayer and supplication; that seeks him in his house and ordinances, where he is to be found; that seeks him early, in the first place, and above all things else; that seeks him earnestly, diligently, with his whole spirit, heart, and soul; that seeks his face, his favour, grace, and glory, and all in Christ, through whom all are to be enjoyed. God is good to such souls; he is a rewarder of them in a way of grace; with himself, as their shield and exceeding great reward; with his Son, and all things freely with him; with his Spirit and graces, and with eternal glory and happiness; such find what they seek for, Christ, his grace, and eternal fire; the Lord never forsakes them, nor the work of his hand in them, and they shall live spiritually and eternally; see Hebrews 11:6.”
32.) The Lord is His name.
Hos 12:5, “And the LORD, the God of armies,
The LORD is His name.”
Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible
Even the Lord God of hosts,…. The God Jacob had power over, the Angel he prevailed with, to whom he made supplication with weeping, and who spake with him and his in Bethel, is he whose name is Jehovah; who is the true and living God, the Lord of hosts and armies both in heaven and in earth; of all the angels in heaven, and the legions of them; and of the church militant, and all the saints, who are the good soldiers of Christ, his spiritual militia; and he is the Captain of the Lord’s host, and of their salvation, and to whom all the numerous hosts of creatures, be they what they will, are subject: this is observed, to set off the greatness of the person Jacob wrestled with, and his wondrous grace, in condescending to be overpowered by him:
the Lord is his memorial: or his name, Jehovah, which belongs to this angel, the Son of God, as to his divine Father; and which is expressive of his divine existence, of his eternity and immutability; this is his memorial, or the remembrancer of him; which puts his people in all ages in remembrance of him, what he is, what an infinite, almighty, and all sufficient Being he is; and he is always to be believed in, and trusted to, and to be served, adored, and worshipped. The Targum adds, to every generation and generation.”
Amo 5:8, “He who made the Pleiades and Orion,
And changes deep darkness into morning,
Who also darkens day into night, Who calls for
the waters of the sea and pours them out on
the surface of the earth, The LORD is His name.”
Pulpit Commentary
Verse 8. – Striking instances are given of God’s creative power and omnipotence. Seek him that maketh the seven stars. “Seek him” is not in the Hebrew. “He that maketh,” etc., is in direct antithesis to “ye who turn,” etc. (ver. 7). The seven stars; Hebrew, kimah, “the heap,” the constellation of the Pleiades (Job 9:9; Job 38:31). The Septuagint here has, ὁ ποιῶν πάντα, but in Job has πλειάς. The Vulgate gives, facientem Arcturum. Symmachus and Theodotion give πλειάδα in the present passage. The identification of this term is discussed in the ‘Dictionary of the Bible,’ 2:891. The observation of this most remarkable cluster among the heavenly bodies would be natural to the pastoral life of Amos. And Orion; Hebrew, kesil, “foolish,” a rebel, the name being applied to Nimrod, whose representation was found by the Easterns in this constellation. Some render kesil, “gate;” others connect it with the Arabia sohail, equivalent to Sirius, or Canopus. The Septuagint here has, καὶ μετασκευάζων, “and changing,” which looks as if the translator was not familiar with the Hebrew word, and substituted something in its place. It reads Ὠρίωνος in Job 38:31. Turneth the shadow of death into the morning. “The shadow of death,” the depth of darkness. This and the following clause do not simply state that the regular interchange of day and night is in God’s hands, but rather notify that God is a moral Governor of the world. He saves men from the utmost dangers, from the darkness of sin and from the night of ignorance; and, on the other hand, he sends calamity on those that offend his Law (comp. Amos 4:13). Maketh the day dark with night; literally, as the Septuagint ἡμέραν εἰς νύκτα συσκοτάζων, “darkeneth day into night.” That calleth for the waters of the sea, etc. As judgments are the prophet’s theme, this expression cannot be an intimation of the working of the natural law by which the moisture taken up from the sea as cloud returns upon the earth as rain (comp. Amos 9:6). Rather it is an allusion to the Flood and similar catastrophes, which are proofs of God’s judicial government of the universe, when “he maketh the creature his weapon for the revenge of his enemies” (Wisd. 5:17). The Lord is his Name. Jehovah, the self-existent God, doeth all these marvellous things, and men presume to scout his Law and think to be unpunished (Amos 4:13). Amos 5:8.”
33.) The Lord is a refuge for His people.
Joe 3:16, “The LORD roars from Zion
and utters His voice from Jerusalem,
and the Heavens and the earth quake.
But the LORD is a refuge for His people,
and a stronghold for the sons of Israel.”
Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges
16. Jehovah draws near in a mighty storm; heaven and earth quake before Him: but His judgement lights only upon His foes; to His own people He proves Himself a stronghold and defence. And Jehovah shall roar from Zion, and utter his voice from Jerusalem] Borrowed verbatim from Amos 1:2, where see the note. The figures of the lion’s roar, and of the noise of thunder, are combined. The details of the judgement are not described; but it must no doubt be imagined that in the storm, and the earthquake accompanying it (see the next words), the nations are struck down and destroyed (comp. for the figure Isaiah 28:2; Isaiah 29:6-8; Isaiah 30:30-31). The fact that Jehovah puts forth His power from Zion, His earthly abode, and the sacred capital of the theocracy, is naturally a favourable omen for His faithful people. and the heavens and the earth shall quake] Cf. Joel 2:10. but Jehovah will be a refuge unto his people, and a strong hold to the children of Israel] The terms used so often of Jehovah in the Psalms: see e.g. Psalm 14:6; Psalm 46:1; Psalm 27:1; Psalm 31:4; Psalm 43:2.”
34.) The Lord is a light for me.
Mic 7:8, “Do not rejoice over me, enemy of mine.
Though I fall I will rise; Though I live in darkness, the LORD is a light for me.”
Benson Commentary
Micah 7:8-9. Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy — Here begins a new subject; the Jewish nation in general being here introduced speaking in their captivity, and addressing themselves to the Chaldeans. When I fall I shall rise — Or, because I am fallen; for I shall rise. When I sit in darkness, the Lord shall be a light unto me — Neither rejoice nor triumph over me, because I at present sit in darkness, or misery, for Jehovah will again make me prosperous. I will bear the indignation of the Lord — I will patiently, or without repining, bear the affliction, or punishment, Jehovah has inflicted upon me. Because I have sinned against him — Because I am sensible I have highly offended him by my idolatry, injustice, and unmercifulness. Until he plead my cause, and execute judgment for me — Until he shall be pleased to acknowledge my cause, in consequence of my repentance and perseverance in the worship of him, and avenge my injuries on my enemies. It may well be supposed that the Chaldeans made a mock of the Jews for persevering in the worship of Jehovah, or that God who (as they supposed) had not been able to deliver them, his worshippers, out of their hands, the worshippers of Bel and Nebo; whom therefore they esteemed more powerful. He will bring me forth to the light — He will again bring me into a prosperous condition. And I shall behold his righteousness — Or rather, his goodness. What we render righteousness, often signifies, according to the Hebrew, beneficence, or goodness.”
35.) The Lord is avenging and wrathful.
Nah 1:2, “A jealous and avenging God is the LORD; The LORD is
avenging and wrathful. The LORD takes vengeance on His adversaries, and He reserves wrath for His enemies.”
Benson Commentary
Nahum 1:2-3. God is jealous — For his own glory; and the Lord revengeth — Or rather, avengeth, namely, the cause, or ill treatment, of his people, as being the Supreme Governor, who, by office, is bound to deliver the oppressed, and punish the oppressor: he also vindicates his own insulted honour. And is furious — Or rather, is angry. In the Hebrew it is literally, And is the Lord of anger, or wrath; that is, can easily give effect to his anger, or execute what it prompts him to. It would be well if the epithet furious were for ever banished from the sacred writings; and, indeed, from all others, when speaking of God. He reserveth wrath for his enemies — There is nothing in the Hebrew to answer the word wrath; it is only, He reserveth for his enemies. Some supply the word punishment; He has punishment in store to execute upon his enemies, when he pleaseth. The Lord is slow to anger, and great [rather, although he be great] in power, and [or, but] will not at all acquit the wicked — The sense of the clause seems to be, that although God defers punishment, yet he has it in his power to inflict it at all times; and though it be long delayed, yet it will, in the end, overtake the wicked, unless the long-suffering of God lead them to repentance. The Lord hath his way — The method of his providence; in the whirlwind — Which often riseth suddenly, and beareth before it all things that stand in its way. Thus God’s judgments often come unexpectedly, and are irresistible, and most terribly destructive. And the clouds are the dust of his feet — He makes the clouds his chariot, and employs them to whatever purpose he pleases. This and the two following verses are a very noble and majestic description of the power of the Almighty.”
36.) The Lord is slow to anger and great in power.
Nah 1:3, “The LORD is slow to anger and great in power, and the LORD will by no means leave the guilty unpunished. In the gale and the storm is His way, and clouds are the dust beneath His feet.”
Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges
3. Nahum 1:3 continues the description of the relation of Jehovah to His enemies: He is longsuffering, delays chastisement long, but eventually takes vengeance. The meaning of the phrase “great in power” is not clear. If employed in the usual objective sense as Job 9:4, the verse would read, The Lord is slow to anger, but great in strength and will by no means leave unpunished (Romans 9:22). If “great in power” had a sense parallel to Job 36:5, “Lo God is great and despises not, great in strength of heart” (mind), that is, if “strength” referred to attributes of the divine mind, magnanimity and longsuffering, the clause would be connected rather with the first, and the verse would read, “The Lord is slow to anger and great in strength, but he will &c.”; see Numbers 14:17-18, to which the verse has great resemblance. The phrase “will not acquit,” or leave unpunished, is used here absolutely, as Exodus 34:7, it being readily understood who it is that He will not let go unpunished; cf. Exodus 20:7; Joel 3:21; Jeremiah 25:29. For “great in power” some would read the usual “great in mercy.” With Nahum 1:3 b the prophet passes to the manifestation of these attributes of Jehovah or of Jehovah in these attributes in the tempest. The passage does not seem to possess unity as a description of a single Theophany, but rather accumulates features from various manifestations of the Lord, all illustrating His power and its terrible effects in nature and on men. hath his way in the whirlwind] i.e. He moves and passes in the whirlwind, which is not the mere wind but also all its accompaniments of cloud and darkness. (The Heb. word for “Storm” is spelled exceptionally here, as Job 9:17.) The meaning is not so much that Jehovah uses the whirlwind and storm as the vehicles of His movement as that these commotions and terrors in nature are created by His presence, of which to men they are the tokens. The splendid words “the clouds are the dust of his feet,” like the others “the earth is his footstool” need to be conceived, not explained.”
37.) The Lord is in His holy temple.
Hab 2:20, “But the LORD is in His holy temple.
Let all the earth be silent before Him.”
Benson Commentary
Habakkuk 2:20. But the Lord is in his holy temple — But Jehovah, the true God, is not like one of these, but lives for ever in his holy temple, the heavens, from whence he beholds and governs all things, and is the fountain of being, life, power, and salvation to his people. Let all the earth keep silence before him — Or, as the LXX. render it, stand in awe, or fear before him. The consideration of his infinite perfections, his self-existence, independence, supremacy, immensity, eternity; his omnipresence, omniscience, and omnipotence; his unspotted holiness, his inviolable truth, and impartial justice; and especially his sovereign authority and dominion, should strike all men with a reverential awe, and should dispose them to the most perfect submission toward him; particularly when they see him executing his judgments in the world, as he would shortly do upon the Chaldeans. The expression is taken from the reverent behaviour which young persons, servants, and others are wont to manifest by keeping silence in the presence of their superiors. Or, it alludes to such a silence as is kept in courts of justice, when a judge pronounces the sentence.”
38.) The Lord is righteous within her.
Zep 3:5, “The LORD is righteous within her;
He will do no injustice. Every morning He brings
His justice to light; He does not fail.
But the criminal knows no shame.”
Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges
4. All these wrongs they practise undeterred and uninstructed by the presence and operations of the righteous Lord in the midst of them. The just Lord is] Rather: The LORD is righteous in the midst of her. Jehovah dwells in the midst of Jerusalem and is seen to be righteous both by His word and works, but the people are insensible and receive no impression from His presence and nature. Jeremiah 11:20. will not do iniquity] Or, doeth no unrighteousness; Deuteronomy 32:4. Every morning … his judgment to light] Morning by morning, i.e. every morning, constantly, He brings His just judgment or justice to light; His moral rule is as constant and as visible as the material law that brings in the dawn. Cf. Hosea 6:5 (read: my judgment goeth forth like the light). the unjust knoweth no shame] The unrighteous, untouched by the righteousness of God and receiving no impression from His rule, though exercised before his eyes, pursues his own unrighteous way with no feeling of shame. Jeremiah 3:3; Jeremiah 6:15; Jeremiah 8:12.”
39.) The Lord is our God, the Lord is One.
Mar 12:29, “Jesus answered, “The foremost is, ‘HEAR, ISRAEL! THE LORD IS OUR GOD, THE LORD IS ONE.”
The Lord in Greek is kyrios which means the Master; God; the Messiah; the Supreme Authority; the Ruler of the universe; — which occurs 717 times in the New Testament. THE LORD IS ONE. ONE in Greek is heis which means one only; the One Absolutely; no one else; not even one; alone; the ONE; — which occurs 345 times in the New Testament.
Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible
Jesus answered him, the first of all the commandments is,…. Christ replied at once, without taking any time to consider of it, that the chief and principal of all the commands of the law, and what is of the greatest importance is,
hear, O Israel, the Lord our God is one Lord. The Vulgate Latin, and Arabic versions read, “one God”; but the Syriac, and Ethiopic render it, “one Lord”; and that rightly, agreeably to the Greek text, and to Deuteronomy 6:4, from whence this is taken. This passage of Scripture, to the end of the ninth verse, is the first of the sections which were put into their phylacteries; See Gill on Matthew 23:5; and was repeated twice every day, morning and evening; which is by the Jews called from the first word , “the reading of the Shema”: concerning the exact time of the reciting of this, morning and evening, and of the posture in which they do it, reclining in the evening, and standing in the morning, and of the prayers before and after it, various rules are given in their Misna (p), or oral law; it is a precept of great esteem and veneration with them, and attended to with much solemnity. The account Maimonides (q) gives of it is this:
“twice every day they read Keriath Shema; (i.e. “hear, O Israel”, &c.) in the evening and in morning, as it is said, Deuteronomy 6:7. “When thou liest down, and when thou risest up”; in the hour it is the custom of men to lie down, and this is night; and in the hour it is the custom of men to stand, and this is day: and what does he read? three sections; and they are these, “hear”, &c. Deuteronomy 6:4, and it shall come to pass, “if ye shall hearken”, &c. Deuteronomy 11:13, “and Moses said”, &c. Exodus 13:3, and they read the section, “hear, O Israel”, first, because there is in it the unity of God, and the love of him and his doctrine; for it is, , “the great root”, or “foundation”, on which all hangs or depends.”
And it is observable, that the last letter of the word “hear”, and the last of the word “one”, are both written in very large characters in the Hebrew Bible, to denote the greatness of the command, and to cause attention to it. The Jews seek for mysteries in these letters, and think the unusual size of them, points at some very great things: they observe, that the first of these letters is numerically “seventy”, and directs to the seventy names of the law, and the seventy ways in which it may be interpreted, and the seventy nations of the world, from whom the Israelites are distinguished, by their belief of the one God (r); and that the latter stands for the number “four”, and shows that the Lord is the one God, in heaven and in earth, in all the world, and in the four parts of it; and that both these letters put together, make a word, which signifies “a witness”; showing that this passage is a glorious testimony of the unity of God, and that the Israelites are witnesses of it, by believing and professing it; and that should they depart from the faith of it, God would be a witness against them: and now, though there is no solid foundation for such interpretations, yet this shows what an opinion they had of the greatness of this command; to which, may be added, they ask (s),
“why does, “hear, O Israel”, &c. go before that passage in Deuteronomy 11:13. “And it shall come to pass, if ye shall hearken diligently unto my commandments”, &c. but because a man must take upon him, first the yoke of the kingdom of heaven, and after that he must take upon him the yoke of the commandments.”
The sense is, that he must first make a confession of his faith in God, which is contained in Deuteronomy 6:4 and then he must obey his commands; so that they plainly considered this, as the first and greatest of all. These words are frequent in the mouths of the modern Jews, in proof of the unity of God, and against a plurality in the Deity; but the ancient ones, not only consider them as a good and sufficient proof, that there is but one God, but as expressive of a Trinity in the Godhead: with a view to this text they observe (t), that
“Jehovah, “our God, Jehovah”; these are, , “three degrees” (or persons) with respect to this sublime mystery, “in the beginning, God”, or “Elohim, created”, &c.”
And again (u),
“there is an unity which is called Jehovah the first, our God, Jehovah; behold! they are all one, and therefore called one: lo! these three names are as one; and although we call them one, and they are one; but by the revelation of the Holy Ghost it is made known, and they are by the sight of the eye to be known, that “these three are one”, (see 1 John 5:7,) and this is the mystery of the voice that is heard; the voice is one; and there are three things, fire, and wind, and water, and they are all one, in the mystery of the voice, and they are not but one: so here, Jehovah, our God, Jehovah, these, , “three modes, forms”, or “things”, are one.”
Once more they (w) say,
“there are two, and one is joined to them, and they are three; and when they are three, they are one: these are the two names of hear, O Israel, which are Jehovah, Jehovah, and Elohenu, or our God, is joined unto them; and it is the seal of the ring of truth.”
To which I shall subjoin one passage more, where R. Eliezer is asking his father R. Simeon ben Jochai, why Jehovah is sometimes called Elohim, he replies (x), among other things;
“come see, there are “three degrees”, (or persons,) and every degree is by itself; although they are all one, and bound together in one, and one is not separated from another.”
To believe this, is the first and chief commandment in the law, and is the principal article of the Christian faith; namely, to believe that there is one God, and that there are three persons, Father, Son, and Spirit, in the Godhead.”
40.) The Lord is able.
Rom 14:4, “Who are you to judge the servant of another? To his own master he stands or falls; and he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.”
Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges
5. The question has been much debated whether the observance of the Sabbath was one of the tenets of the “weak brethren,” and so whether it is here ruled by St Paul to be not of permanent moral obligation. (Cp. Colossians 2:16.) If by “the Sabbath” is meant the last day of the week strictly, the answer to both questions must be yes. But as to the observance of a divinely-consecrated Weekly Rest, it is evident (from Genesis 2:3 and Exodus 20:8-11, and cp. such passages of prophetic doctrine as Isaiah 58:13-14,) that the institution stands on a very different level from that of the monthly and yearly Mosaic festivals. It is antecedent to all Jewish law, and in the Decalogue of Exodus it is based on strictly universal grounds, and placed among the great elements of moral duty. No doubt it is impossible to trace the whole process of transition from the observance of the Seventh day to that of the First; but the plain fact remains that the sanctity of the primeval weekly worship-rest was of a kind most unlikely to be slightingly put aside by the Apostles; and thus in such places as this and Colossians 2:16 it is far more likely that the wrong opinion in question was that the whole Mosaic code of festivals was still binding in full detail; that therefore the Saturday was the only possible Sabbath; and that it was to be observed by the Rabbinic rules. How to deal with those who might reject the Weekly Rest altogether might be a difficult question. But all we are here called on to enquire is whether it was likely that St Paul, with the O. T. before him, would treat the Sabbath (the Sabbath apart from its Rabbinic aspect) as a thing of the same quality as, for example, the new-moon feast. 4. Who art thou that judgest] The verb “judge” connects this with the “judgment” passed by the “eater of herbs” upon the Christianity of his “stronger” brother.—The word “judge” here (as in Matthew 7:1) manifestly does not forbid the entertainment, nor the right expression, of opinions, but the assumption of a tone of judicial opinion: the thinking of others from a level of isolated authority and sanctity. standeth or falleth] In the sense of acceptance or non-acceptance. Yea, he shall be holden up] Lit. But he shall he made to stand. The “but” points out that of the two alternatives just given (“standing,” “falling,”) the former, in this case, is certain.”
41.) The Lord is the Spirit.
2Co 3:17, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(17) Now the Lord is that Spirit.—Better, the Lord is the Spirit. The words seem at first inconsistent with the formulated precision of the Church’s creeds, distinguishing the persons of the Godhead from each other. We apply the term “Lord,” it is true, as a predicate of the Holy Spirit when we speak, as in the Nicene Creed, of the Holy Ghost as “the Lord, and Giver of life,” or say, as in the pseudo-Athanasian, that “the Holy Ghost is Lord;” but using the term “the Lord” as the subject of a sentence, those who have been trained in the theology of those creeds would hardly say, “The Lord” (the term commonly applied to the Father in the Old Testament, and to the Son in the New) “is the Spirit.” We have, accordingly, to remember that St. Paul did not contemplate the precise language of these later formularies. He had spoken, in 2Corinthians 3:16, of Israel’s “turning to the Lord;” he had spoken also of his own work as “the ministration of the Spirit” (2Corinthians 3:8). To turn to the Lord—i.e., to the Lord Jesus—was to turn to Him whose essential being, as one with the Father, was Spirit (John 4:24), who was in one sense, the Spirit, the life-giving energy, as contrasted with the letter that killeth. So we may note that the attribute of “quickening,” which is here specially connected with the name of the Spirit (2Corinthians 3:6), is in John 5:21 connected also with the names of the Father and the Son. The thoughts of the Apostle move in a region in which the Lord Jesus, not less than the Holy Ghost, is contemplated as Spirit. This gives, it is believed, the true sequence of St. Paul’s thoughts. The whole verse may be considered as parenthetical, explaining that the “turning to the Lord” coincides with the “ministration of the Spirit.” Another interpretation, inverting the terms, and taking the sentence as “the Spirit is the Lord,” is tenable grammatically, and was probably adopted by the framers of the expanded form of the Nicene Creed at the Council of Constantinople (A.D. 380). It is obvious, however, that the difficulty of tracing the sequence of thought becomes much greater on this method of interpretation.
Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.—The Apostle returns to the more familiar language. To turn to the Lord, who is Spirit, is to turn to the Spirit which is His, which dwelt in Him, and which He gives. And he assumes, almost as an axiom of the spiritual life, that the presence of that Spirit gives freedom, as contrasted with the bondage of the letter—freedom from slavish fear, freedom from the guilt and burden of sin, freedom from the tyranny of the Law. Compare the aspect of the same thought in the two Epistles nearly contemporary with this:—the Spirit bearing witness with our spirit that we are the children of God, those children being partakers of a glorious liberty (Romans 8:16-21); the connection between walking in the Spirit and being called to liberty (Galatians 5:13-16). The underlying sequence of thought would seem to be something like this: “Israel, after all, with all its seeming greatness and high prerogatives, was in bondage, because it had the letter, not the Spirit; we who have the Spirit can claim our citizenship in the Jerusalem which is above and which is free” (Galatians 4:24-31).”
42.) The Lord is the Avenger.
1Th 4:6, “and that no one violate the rights and take advantage of his brother or sister in the matter, because the Lord is the Avenger in all these things, just as we also told you previously and solemnly
warned you.”
Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges
6. that no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter] More exactly, that none overreach and take advantage of his brother in the matter. “The matter” is obviously that which occupies the last two verses. Acts of Impurity are social wrongs, as well as sins against the offender’s person. The warning may include any injury done to another touching the affections and engagements that belong to marriage,—“the matter” concerned in the present charge—which is expressly violated by “fornication.” The Apostle sets the wrong in the strongest light: it is to “cheat one’s brother,” and that in what touches most nearly the sanctities of life. Hence the stern warning that follows:— because that the Lord is the avenger of all such] Rather, an avenger; and concerning all these things—in everything that concerns the honour of the human person and the sacredness of wedded life. Comp. Hebrews 13:4, “Let marriage be had in honour … Fornicators and adulterers God will judge.” It is written that “Vengeance belongs to God;” and in this matter He is peculiarly bound to exercise it. as we also have forewarned you and testified] or, solemnly attested: the latter verb implies reference to God, as it is expressed in 2 Timothy 4:1, “before God and Christ Jesus.” On this subject it appears—as to the moral consequences of faith in Christ and the social purity that belongs to the sanctified life—the apostles at Thessalonica had spoken very plainly and solemnly from the first.”
43.) The Lord is full of compassion and is merciful.
Jas 5:11, “We count those blessed who endured. You have heard of the endurance of Job and have seen the outcome of the Lord’s dealings, that the Lord is full of compassion and is merciful.”
Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges
11. we count them happy which endure …] Better, we call them blessed, the verb being formed from the adjective used in ch. James 1:12. Comp. Luke 2:48. The words may contain a reference to Daniel 12:12. Ye have heard of the patience of Job] Better, endurance, to keep up the connexion with the verb. It is singular that, though the book is once quoted (1 Corinthians 3:19, Job 5:13), this is the only reference in the New Testament to the history of Job. Philo, however, quotes from Job 14:4 (de Mutat. Nom. xxiv.), and he is referred to by Clement of Rome (1.17.26). The book would naturally be studied by one whose attention had been drawn, as St James’s manifestly had been, to the sapiential Books included in the Hagiographa of the Old Testament. It is obvious that he refers to the book as containing an actual history, as obvious that his so referring to it throws no light on the questions which have been raised, but which it would be out of place to discuss here, as to its authorship and date. and have seen the end of the Lord] The words have received two very different interpretations. (1) They have been referred to the “end” which the “Lord” wrought out for Job after his endurance had been tried, as in Job 42:12. (2) The “end of the Lord” has been understood as pointing to the death and resurrection of Christ as the Lord who had been named in James 5:7, the highest example of patience in the Old Testament being brought into juxtaposition with the Highest of all Examples. On this view the passage becomes parallel with 1 Peter 2:19-25. The clause that follows is, however, decisively in favour of (1), nor is there any instance of a New Testament writer using the term “end” of the passion and death of Christ. Matthew 26:58, which is the nearest approach to such a use, is scarcely in point. that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy] The first of the two adjectives, of which the nearest English equivalent would be large-hearted or perhaps tender-hearted, is not found in any other writer, and may have been a coinage of St James’s. The latter occurs in Sir 2:11, in close juxtaposition with a passage which we have already found referred to in the Epistle (Sir 2:11), and which may therefore have been present to St James’s thoughts. In this instance “the Lord” is clearly used in the Old Testament sense, and this, as has been said, determines the meaning of the previous clause.”
44.) The Lord is not slow about His promise.
2Pe 3:9, “The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not Pulpit Commentary
Verse 9. – The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness. The Lord here, as frequently in these Epistles, is God the Father; it is he only who knoweth that day and that hour (Mark 13:32). Some take the genitive τῆς ἐπαγγελίας with “the Lord,” and translate, “The Lord of the promise is not slack.” This is a possible connection, but, not so satisfactory as the ordinary rendering. (For the genitive with the verb βραδύνει, see Winer, 3:30, 6, b.) The latter clause may be understood, “as some think it, i.e., the delay of the judgment, to be slackness;” or better, perhaps, “as some understand the meaning of slackness.” Men are slow in fulfilling their promises from various, often selfish, motives; the Lord’s delay comes from love and long-suffering. But is long-suffering to us-ward; rather, to you-ward, which seems to be the best-supported reading; two ancient manuscripts give “for your sake.” St. Peter has the same thought in the First Epistle (1 Peter 4:20); there he reminds us how the long-suffering of God waited while the ark was a-preparing; here he tells us that the delay of the judgment, at which unbelievers scoff, is due to the same cause. We note here an item of evidence for the common authorship of the two Epistles (comp. Habakkuk 2:3, quoted in Hebrews 10:37, and Ecclus. 32:22, in the Septuagint; also Augustine’s well-known words, “Pattens quid aeternus”). Not willing that any should perish; rather, not wishing or desiring (μὴ βουλόμενος). The participle gives the reason of the Lord’s delay; he hath no pleasure that the wicked should die (Ezekiel 18:23, 32, and Ezekiel 33:11). But that all should come to repentance. The G reek word for “come” (χωρῆσαι), occurs in the same sense in Matthew 15:17 (see also the remarkable parallel from Plutarch, ‘De Flum.,’ page 19 (quoted by Alford), εἰς μετάνοιαν… χωρήσας). Calvin takes it transitively, “willing to receive all to repentance.” But the common translation is plainly right (comp. 1 Timothy 2:4 combined with 2 Timothy 2:25). 2 Peter 3:9.”
God is not willing for any to perish, but for all to come to repentance. There is no reason or excuse for you to go to Hell.
*Our mission is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ absolutely free. We do not want donation. We only want you to know the truth.
1.)The Lord is the Righteous One.
Exo 9:27, “Then Pharaohsent for Moses and Aaron, and said to them, “I havesinned this time; the LORD is the Righteous One, and I and my people are the wicked ones.”
This is the confession of Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, that he and his people are the wicked ones. There are not many leaders who would confess like Pharaoh.
The Lord in Hebrew is Yᵊhōvâwhich means the Self-Existent or Eternal; the Lord; God; the proper Name of the God of Israel; the One bringing into Being; Life Giver; Creator; the Absolute and Unchangeable One; I AM WHO I AM; — which occurs 6,521 times in the Old Testament. Whatever was wrong with the Pharaoh, his concept of the Lord is correct.
Let us see the Righteous in Hebrew is ṣadîqwhich means just; lawful; right; acting in accord with divine or moral law; — which occurs 206 times in the Old Testament. Pharaoh confessed that the Lord is the Righteous One, he and his people are the wicked ones.
The Lord is not so much about the existence of God, it explains the nature and attribute of God.
Verse 4. – The Lord is righteous. Still, God is just. He allowed these sufferings to be inflicted on us because we deserved them; and he interposed on our behalf when we had been sufficiently punished, and cut asunder the cords of the wicked. Cut, i.e., the cords wherewith they had bound us. The “retrospect” here ends, and in the next verse the “anticipation” begins. Psalm 129:4.”
Lamentations 1:18-19. The Lord is righteous, for I have rebelled, &c. — He does me no wrong in dealing thus with me, nor can I charge him with any injustice. Observe, reader, whatever the troubles are which God is pleased to inflict upon us, we must own that in them he is righteous: we neither know him nor ourselves, if we do not acknowledge this. Jerusalem owns the equity of God’s actions by confessing the iniquity of her own. Hear, I pray you, all people — See note on Lamentations 1:12. My virgins and my young men are gone into captivity — Thus it is said, 2 Chronicles 36:17, that the Chaldeans had “no compassion upon young men or maidens.” I called for my lovers, but they deceived me — They proved like the brooks in summer to the thirsty traveller, Job 6:15. The Egyptians and her other allies are intended, who made court to her in her prosperity, and promised her assistance, but in the day of her adversity and necessity were alienated from her, and cast her off. Thus we are commonly deceived and disappointed in those creatures that we set our hearts upon, and put our trust in. Happy they that have made God their friend, and keep themselves in his love, for he will not deceive them! My priests and mine elders gave up the ghost in the city — The famine hath consumed the most honourable as well as the meaner people. While they sought their meat to relieve their souls — While they went about seeking for bread to keep them alive. The LXX. add, και ουχ ευρον, and found none, with whom the Syriac agrees. But no such words appear in the Hebrew copies, although the thing is implied, for they would not have died if they had found what they sought.”
3.) The Lord is righteous in all His ways.
Psa 145:17, “The LORD is righteous in all His ways,
Psalm 145:17. The Lord is righteous in all his ways — And not unrighteous in any of them; and holy in all his works — Always acting like himself, with perfect rectitude and purity. In all his acts of government he is just, injurious to none, but administering justice to all: his ways are equal, though ours are unequal. In giving laws, in deciding controversies, in recompensing services, and punishing offences, he is incontestably righteous and holy, and we are in duty bound to acknowledge it. But the word חסיד, here rendered holy, generally signifies merciful, and, it seems, ought to have been so translated here. There is a mixture of mercy in the most severe and terrible works and dispensations of God toward men in this life, judgment without mercy being reserved for the next life, James 2:13; Revelation 14:10.”
Verse 3. – a man of war. A strong anthropomorphism, but one that could scarcely be misunderstood – “a man of war,” meaning commonly “a warrior,” or “one mighty in battle” (Psalm 24:8). God’s might had just been proved, in that he alone had discomfited and destroyed the most potent armed force in the whole world. The Lord is his name. Jehovah – the alone-existing One “truly describes him,” before whom all other existence fades and falls into nothingness. On the full meaning of the name, see the comment on Exodus 3:14. Exodus 15:3.”
5.) The LORD is greater than all the gods.
Exo 18:11, “Now I know that the LORD is greater than
all the gods; indeed, it was proven when they acted
insolently against the people.”
All the gods of false religion are false gods. You must know that the Lord is greater than all the gods. It does not mean other gods are true gods. There is no other god. To act insolently in Hebrew iszûḏwhich means to deal presumptuously; to deal arrogantly; to sin knowingly; to do impudently; — which occurs 10 times in the Old Testament.
6.) The LORD is slow to anger and abundant in mercy.
Num 14:18, “The LORD is slow to anger and abundant in mercy, forgiving wrongdoing and violation of His Law; but He will by no means leave the guilty unpunished, inflicting the punishment of the fathers on the childrento the third and the fourth generations.”
The Lord is longsuffering,…. Towards all men, and especially towards his own people:
and of great mercy, being abundant in goodness, and keeping mercy for thousands:
forgiving iniquity and transgression, all sorts of sin:
and by no means clearing the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation; which may seem to make against the plea of Moses for mercy and forgiveness; but the reason of these words being expressed seems to be, because they go along with the others in the passage referred to, and are no contradiction to the forgiving mercy of God in a way of justice; nor did Moses request to have the guilty cleared from punishment altogether, but that God would show mercy, at least to such a degree as not to cut off the whole nation, and leave no posterity to inherit the land; which is supposed in visiting the sin of the fathers to the third or fourth generation.”
7.) The LORD is our God, the LORD is One!
Deu 6:4, “Hear, Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD is one!”
4. Hear, O Israel] So Deuteronomy 9:1; Deuteronomy 20:3, and similarly Deuteronomy 4:1, Deuteronomy 6:3; and nowhere else in the Hexateuch. The Sg. is to be explained as in Deuteronomy 5:1; but the continuance of the Sg. through the rest of this section is (especially if it is to follow immediately on Deuteronomy 6:1, see above) analogous to the appearance of the Sg. of the Decalogue in a Pl. context. There, as here, Moses uses the Pl. address for his own words, but quotes what God gave him at Ḥoreb in the Sg. the Lord our God is one Lord] As the R. V. marg. shows, this is one of four possible translations of the elliptic Hebrew: Jehovah our-God, Jehovah One. The other three are: Jehovah our God, Jehovah is One; Jehovah is our God, Jehovah is One; Jehovah is our God, Jehovah alone. But the four are resolvable into these two: First, Jehovah our God is One, an expression of His unity, appropriate at a time when we know from Jeremiah that by the multiplication of His shrines the people of Judah conceived Him, as Baal or Ashtoreth was conceived, not as One, but as many deities with different characteristics and powers over different localities, cp. Jeremiah 2:28. Second, Jehovah is our God alone: i.e. Israel’s only God, cp. Zechariah 14:9; Song of Solomon 6:9; 1 Chronicles 29:1. These passages are all post-exilic, and in the first two one may mean unique, but that here it means only (for Israel) is probable from the following verse. Some interpreters take the verse as ‘a great declaration of monotheism’ (so Driver). But had that been the intention of the writer the clause would have run ‘Jehovah is the God, Jehovah alone.’ The use of the term our-God shows that the meaning simply is Jehovah is Israel’s only God. Nothing is said as to the existence or non-existence of other gods, and the verse is therefore on an equality with Deuteronomy 5:7, the First Commandment, and with Deuteronomy 7:9, which implies no more than that Jehovah is a or the God indeed; cp. the curious Deuteronomy 4:19b which seeks to reconcile His sovereignty with the fact that other gods are worshipped by other nations. Only in Deuteronomy 4:35; Deuteronomy 4:39 does an explicit declaration of monotheism appear in Deut.; it is to be remembered, however, that on other grounds the post-exilic date of these verses is possible1[126]. At the same time the phrase used here lends itself readily to the expression of an absolute monotheism, which later ages of a wider faith read into it. It is interesting to compare with our verse St Paul’s statement 1 Corinthians 8:4-6; we know that no idol is anything in the world and that there is no God but one; for though there be that are called gods …; as there be gods many and lords many, yet to us there is One God, the Father, of whom are all things. Note even here yet to us! [126] This is not meant to imply that some in Israel had not thrown off belief in the reality of other gods before the Exile. Jeremiah certainly had: e.g. Deuteronomy 2:11. 4–9. The Essential Creed and Duty of Israel, with enforcement of them. Known from its initial word as The Shĕma‘ (= Hear), this section (along with Deuteronomy 11:13-21 and Numbers 15:37-41) ‘has been for many ages the first bit of the Bible which Jewish children have learned to say and to read, just as it has for many ages formed the confession of faith among all members of the brotherhood of Judaism’ (C. G. Montefiore, The Bible for Home Reading, Pt i. 127). The later law required its recital by a Jew twice daily; for particulars see Schürer, Gesrh. des jüd. Volkes, § 27 and Appendix (3rd Germ. ed. ii. 459 f.; E.T. Div. ii. Vol. ii. pp. 77, 84). The LXX inserts before it a longish title1[125], which shows how late this editorial practice of inserting titles to important sections of Deut. continued, and explains some similar headings in the Heb. text. [125] ‘And these are the statutes and the judgements which the Lord commanded to the children of Israel, when they were coming out of the land of Egypt.”
8.) The hand of the Lord is mighty.
Jos 4:24, “so that all the peoples of the earth may know that the hand of the LORD is mighty, so that you may fear the LORD your God forever.”
Not only the hand of the Lord is mighty, there is nothing impossible with God. The power of God has no limits.
Verse 24. – The hand of the Lord, that it is mighty. “Thus the river, though dumb, was the best of heralds, proclaiming with a loud voice that heaven and earth are subject to the Lord God of Israel” (Calvin). That ye might fear. The construction here is unusual. Instead of the imperfect or infinitive with לְמַעַן we have the perfect. Therefore Ewald, Maurer, and Knobel (who says that the second member of the sentence ought to correspond with the first) have altered the pointing in order to bring this passage into conformity with the supposed necessities of grammar. In so doing they have robbed it of its picturesqueness and its meaning. For the object is clearly to show the lasting nature of the fear, “that ye might recognise now the hand of the Lord, that ye might have a thorough and lasting fear of his name.” We may here remark on the necessarily miraculous character of the whole narrative of the crossing the Jordan. It admits of no explaining away. The account must either be accepted or rejected enbloc. First we have the specific declaration of Rahab in chap. 2:10, that Jehovah dried up the Red Sea, and that this proof of the peculiar protection of Israel by the Most High had struck terror into the hearts of the inhabitants of Canaan. Next we have the fact that Jordan had overflowed its banks. The dangerous nature of the crossing, even at ordinary times, has been mentioned already. Lives are frequently lost in the attempt, as recent travellers with one voice declare. At the time when the waters were out such a crossing was practically impossible to a host like the host of Israel. Nor can there be any mistake about its being the period of the overflowing of Jordan, for the time of the crossing is mentioned. It was the time of harvest – that is, of the barley harvest. This is confirmed by the fact that the recently cut flax was now lying on the roof of Rahab’s house, and by the fact that the harley and flax ripened together, a coincidence which we have already mentioned in the note on chap. 2:6. The time is yet further defined. It was the “tenth day of the first month.” We learn, moreover, from Leviticus 23:9-15 and Deuteronomy 16:6 that this was the time when the firstfruits were offered, from which seven weeks were reckoned to the beginning of wheat harvest (Exodus 34:2). Moreover, the passover was kept immediately afterwards (Joshua 5:10), on “the fourteenth day of the first month.” Thus the date of the crossing, which is accurately fixed by a variety of circumstances, is clearly proved to correspond with the time of Jordan’s overflow. We next come to the measures taken to secure the crossing. There is likewise no mistake here. Not one single intimation is given of an endeavour to break in any way the force of the current, or to preserve the Israelites, either men, women, or children, from the imminent risk they ran of death by drowning. Not only are no other expedients resorted to, but no animals seem to have been prepared to transport them over. Nor, again, were any means used to elude the vigilance of the inhabitants of Canaan. Readers of Xenophon’s ‘Anabasis ‘ will not fail to notice how often the passage of the rivers was a matter of the utmost difficulty to that expedition, and how fiercely attempts at crossing were disputed by the half savage tribes of Asia Minor. How are we to account for the fact that no opposition was offered to Joshua’s passage by the highly civilised nations of Palestine? According to the narrative before us it was effected in the most leisurely and peaceful manner. What other explanation is possible titan that offered in the text, that when the feet of the priests bearing the ark touched the waters, those waters were cut off by supernatural power, and a way was miraculously made for the people of God through the midst of Jordan? The crossing was remarkable enough, we are told, to have been commemorated by a double memorial (vers. 8, 9). If it had taken place through an unusually easy ford there would have been nothing remarkable about it. Therefore it is clear that the whole narrative of the crossing is either absolute fable or strictly and historically accurate. Let us conclude by summing up the several reasons which make the former alternative inadmissible. The first is the precision with which the date is fixed, and the fact that the correctness of this date is confirmed, as we have seen, by a variety of corroborative evidence. The next is the simplicity and artlessness of the narrative, and its appeal to still existing monuments as confirmatory of the facts recorded. The third is that no account of a battle at Jordan is even hinted at by the Hebrew or any other historian, a battle which must infallibly have taken place had the Israelites attempted to enter Palestine in any ordinary manner; for the supposition that the waters of the ford at Jericho were unusually low at this time is quite inadmissible for the reasons given above; nor can it be supposed that the Israelites crossed the river by any other ford without rejecting the whole history of the conquest. The last reason is the touch of detail given in the word XXX which seems to mark the transition from the soft adhesive mud of the river to the firmness of the dry land beyond (for the word translated “dry land” in chap. 3:17 only means that it was land and not water. Gesenius). Our witness, in fact, can be subjected to the severest cross examination without shaking his testimony. And we are thus compelled to choose between accepting the literal correctness of the narrative as it stands, or crediting the author with a skill in constructing a work of fiction which itself scarcely falls short of the miraculous.”
9.) The Lord is God.
Jos 22:34, “And the sons of Reuben and the sons of Gad called the altar Witness; “For,” they said, “it is a witness between us that the LORD is God.”
Verse 34. – Ed. This word is not in the original. It is found in some late MSS. and in the Syriac and Arabic versions, but not in the LXX. or Chaldee. Even in the MSS. which have it, the word is found sometimes before and sometimes after the Hebrew word signifying “altar.” This may either be because, once omitted, it was conjecturally supplied, but it is more probable that it was never there at all. The passage may be rendered, “And the sons of Reuben and the sons of Gad gave a name to the altar, ‘for it is a witness between us.'” But it seems more likely that the word “Ed,” though not expressed, is in. tended to be understood. The LXX. and Vulgate give incorrect renderings of the passage. The Lord is God. Rather, as in 1 Kings 18:39, Jehovah is the God; that is, the one true God. Some MSS. have interpolated הוּא here from the above cited passage. Such altars, or mounds, of witness seem not to have been unusual among the Eastern nations (see Genesis 31:47-52).”
Psa 118:27, “The LORD is God, and He has given us light; bind the festival sacrifice to the horns of the
Verse 27. – God is the Lord, which hath showed us light. Having received the priestly benediction, the processionists resume their strain. They have entered within the courts; they are approaching the altar of sacrifice; they have brought their offering. “Jehovah,” they say, “is God, and hath given us light” (see the Revised Version). That is, he has enlightened our spirits to see and acknowledge his mercies; or, perhaps, he has led us, as he did the people, by a pillar of fire in the wilderness; and now we stand before the altar with our offering – receive it at our hands, ye priests-and bind the sacrifice with cords, even unto the horns of the altar. So shalt the act of thanksgiving be complete, and the solemn service ended. The fanciful exposition of Luther, lately revived by Professor Cheyne, will scarcely approve itself to critics generally. Psalm 118:27.”
10.) The Lord is Peace.
Jdg 6:24, “Then Gideon built an altar there to the
LORD and named it The LORD is Peace. To this day it is still in Ophrah of the Abiezrites.”
24. built an altar there] where the Deity had appeared; the patriarchs observed this custom, see Genesis 12:7; Genesis 26:25; Genesis 35:1. The altar with its name Jehovah is peace, i.e. well-disposed, commemorated the revelation; cf. the naming of an altar in Genesis 33:20; Genesis 35:7, Exodus 17:15 (all E). For Kittel’s interpretation of the episode see on Jdg 13:19. Perhaps Gideon’s experience conveyed to his mind a new religious idea. According to primitive belief, the Deity dwelt in a sacred tree or stone; but not in the terebinth or rock at Ophrah; the Messenger of Jehovah has no such dwelling; He comes as a traveller from some region that no one knows. Whether the burning of the sacrifice marked a change in religious practice is more doubtful. The foregoing narrative presents several difficulties. The inconsistent use of Jehovah in Jdg 6:14; Jdg 6:16 may be accounted for by a lapse from strict dramatic fitness on the part of the writer; but the expressions in Jdg 6:14; Jdg 6:16-17 which imply that Gideon recognized the Angel before Jdg 6:22, cannot perhaps be explained in this way. It has been suggested (1) that these expressions have been inserted by a later editor to emphasize from the first the divine nature of Gideon’s Visitor and the sacrificial character of the meal; or (2) that the confusion is due to a double version, Jdg 6:14 b do not I send thee, Jdg 6:16-17 b being assigned to E, the rest belonging to J. But the distinction between the sources cannot be made out with much success. It is possible to explain the difficulty in Jdg 6:17 b in the way attempted in the note; but we must allow that the present form of the narrative cannot be original.”
1. arrogancy] The old form of the word arrogance (cp. innocency for innocence) from the Lat. arrogantia. It signifies “claiming more than one’s due,” “assumption,” “pride.” knowledge] The Heb. word is plural, denoting varied and extensive knowledge. by him actions are weighed] Jehovah knows the hearts of men and estimates men’s actions at their true value. See Proverbs 16:2; Proverbs 24:12. This explanation is probably right, but the Heb. may also be rendered, “His (i.e. God’s) actions are weighed,” or, “measured:” i.e. are just and right. Cp. the use of the same word in Ezekiel 18:25, “Is not my way equal?” “By him” is the Qrî or traditional read text. (See p. 14.) The Kthîbh or written text has “not” instead of “by him,” the words being similar in pronunciation though differently spelt. This may be rendered either, “though actions be not weighed,” or interrogatively, “and are not actions weighed?” 1 Samuel 2:3.”
Verses 16-18. – Here begins the third part of the psalm. It is, as has been observed, “confident and triumphant.” The psalmist has, in the first part, shown the wickedness of the ungodly; in the second, he has prayed for vengeance on them, and for the deliverance of their victims; in the third, he expresses his certainty that his prayer is heard, and that the punishment and deliverance for which he has prayed are as good as accomplished. Verse 16. – The Lord is King for ever and ever (comp. Psalm 29:10; Psalm 146:10). Thus God’s kingdom is established, his authority vindicated, his absolute rule over all men made manifest. Internal and external foes are alike overcome. The heathen – whether uncircumcised in the flesh or in the heart (Jeremiah 9:25, 26) – are perished out of his (Jehovah’s) land. Psalm 10:16.”
Verse 8. – Good and upright is the Lord. A transition. From prayer the psalmist turns to reflection, and meditates awhile (vers. 8-10) on the character and ways of God. God is, indeed, “good,” as he has implied in the preceding verse – i.e., kind, tender, gentle, merciful; but he is also “upright” (יָשָׁר) – just, straight, strict, undeviating from the path of right. As Bishop Butler observes, “Divine goodness, with which, if I mistake not, we make very free in our speculations, may not be a bare single disposition to produce happiness, but a disposition to make the good, the faithful, the honest man happy” (‘Anal.,’ 1:2, p. 41) – s disposition, i.e., to be just as well as merciful to distribute happiness by the canon of right. Therefore will he teach sinners in the way. He will not abandon sinners – this is his “goodness;” but will reclaim them, chasten them, make them to walk in his way – this is his uprightness. Psalm 25:8.”
The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart,…. Who are pressed and bore down with afflictions, by the sorrow of heart under which their spirits are broken, Proverbs 15:13; or with a sense of sin, and sorrow for it, for which their hearts smite them, and they are wounded by it, and broken with it: to these the Lord is “nigh”; not in a general way only, as he is to all men, being God omnipresent, but in a special manner; he comes and manifests himself to them in a gracious way, pours in the oil and wine of his love, and binds up their broken hearts; yea, comes and dwells with them: he does not pass by them and neglect them, much less make the breach worse; he does not break the bruised reeds, but he heals their breaches;
and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit; not in a legal, but in an evangelical way; who are humbled under a sense of sin, and melted down in true repentance, under a view of the love and grace of God; and are poor and mean in their own eyes: to these the Lord has respect; the sacrifices of a broken and contrite spirit are not despised by him, but accepted through faith in Christ; and such he saves with an everlasting salvation in him.”
Psalm 92:15. To show that the Lord is upright, &c. — That he is true to his promises, and faithful to every word that he hath spoken, and therefore does not leave nor forsake those that cleave to him, but carries on the work which he has begun. As it is by his promises that believers first partake of a divine nature, so it is by his promises that that divine nature is preserved and maintained, and therefore the power it exerts is an evidence that the Lord is upright, and such he will show himself to be with an upright man, Psalm 18:25. He is my rock — I have chosen him for my rock, on which to build my confidence and hopes for time and eternity, and in the clefts of which to take shelter in the time of danger: and I have found him a rock, strong and steadfast, and his word firm and stable. And there is no unrighteousness in him — He is as able, and will be as kind, as his word represents him to be. All that ever trusted in God have found him faithful and all-sufficient, and none were ever made ashamed of their hope in him. He is just and upright in his dealings with his intelligent creatures, “immoveable in his counsels, and determined to punish the wicked and reward the good; so that, when his proceedings shall come to be unfolded at the last day, it will appear to men and angels that there is no unrighteousness in him.” — Horne.”
16.) The Lord is a great God.
Psa 95:3, “For the LORD is a great Godand a great King above all gods.”
2. The thoughts of the greatness of Jehovah, of His sovereignty, and of His supremacy over the gods of the heathen, are characteristic of this group of Psalms. They are not new thoughts (Exodus 15:11; Exodus 15:18), but fresh reality had been given to them by His revelation of Himself in the humiliation of Babylon and its gods, and the deliverance of Israel. That the Psalmist attributes any real existence to the gods of the heathen is not to be supposed. They are mere idols, things of nought (Psalm 96:5), gods in name but not in reality. He cannot have gone back from the teaching of Jeremiah 10:3 ff., in which the living God, the Eternal King, the Creator, is contrasted with helpless perishable idols; or have forgotten the scathing sarcasms of Isaiah 40:18 ff; Isaiah 44:9 ff. 3–5. The reason for this service:—His greatness as the supreme King, the Lord of the world.”
For the Lord is good – For good is Yahweh. That is, He is not a being of mere “power;” he is not merely the Creator; but he is benevolent, and is, therefore, worthy of universal praise. In the former verses, his claim to adoration is founded on the fact that he is the “Creator,” and has, as such, a right to our service; in this verse, the claim is asserted on account of his moral character:
(1) his benevolence;
(2) his mercy;
(3) his truth;
(a) the fact that he is a God of truth; and
(b) the fact that his truth endures, or that in all generations he shows himself to be faithful to his promises.
The first of these is his “benevolence:” “The Lord is good.” As such, assuredly, God is worthy of praise and honor. A being of “mere” power we could not love or praise; a being whose power was united with malignity or malevolence, could only be the object of hatred and terror; but a being whose power is united with goodness or benevolence ought to he loved.
His mercy is everlasting – This is the “second” reason, drawn from his moral character, why he should be praised and adored. A being of mere “justice” may be feared and respected; but a character of “mere” justice would be to man an object of dread – and may be so anywhere. There are other attributes than the one of “justice,” high and valuable as that may be, which are necessary to constitute a perfect character; and man, in order to find happiness and security, must find some other attribute in God than mere “justice,” for man is a sinner, and needs pardon; he is a sufferer, and needs compassion; he is to die, and needs support and consolation. Besides, mere “justice” may drive its decisions over some of the kindest and tenderest feelings of human nature, for there are cases, under all administrations, where pardon is desirable and mercy is proper. It is, therefore, a ground of unspeakable joy for man that God is not a Being of “mere justice,” but that there is mingled in his character the attribute of mercy and kindness. But for this, man could have no hope; for, as a sinner, he has no claim on God, and all his hope must be derived from God’s infinite compassion. To all this as a ground of praise is to be added the fact that this mercy of God is “everlasting.” Its fruits – its results – will extend to the vast eternity before us; and in all that eternity we shall never cease to enjoy the benefits of that mercy; never be suffered to fall back on the mere “justice” of God.
And his truth endureth to all generations – Margin, as in Hebrew, “to generation and generation.” That is, forever. It is the same in every generation of the world. This is the third reason derived from the moral character of God for praising him; and this is a just ground of praise. We could not love and honor a God who was not true to his promises, and who did not himself love the truth; we could not honor one who was changeable and flexible – who loved one thing in one generation and a different thing in the next; who in one age was the friend of truth, and in the next the patron of falsehood. It is the just foundation for praise to God – our God – that he is essentially and always – in all worlds, and in all the generations of people – toward all in the universe – a Being of unchangeable benevolence, mercy, and truth. Such a God is worthy to be had in universal reverence; such a God is worthy of universal praise.”
Verse 18. – Why callest thou me good? According to the best authorities, the words in St. Matthew (Matthew 21:17) run thus: “Why askest thou me concerning that which is good? One there is who is good.” The word “good” is the pivot on which our Lord’s answer turns, both in St. Matthew and here. The question is doubtless put to test the young ruler’s faith. If, as may be supposed, the young man used the term, “good Master,” as a mere conventional expression, it was not the proper epithet to apply to our Lord, who at once transfers the praise and the goodness to God, that he might teach us to do the same. This ruler, by his mode of accosting our Lord, showed that he had not as yet a right faith in him – that he did not believe in his Godhead. Our Lord, therefore, desired to rouse him and lift him up to a higher faith. He seems to say to him, “If you call me good, believe that I am God; for no one is good, intrinsically good, but God. God alone is essentially good, and wise, and powerful, and holy. It is from him that angels and men derive a few drops, or rather some faint adumbration, of his goodness. There is none essentially, entirely, absolutely good but one, that is, God. Therefore seek after him, love him, imitate him. He alone can satisfy your longing desires, as in this life with his grace, so in the life to come with his glory; yea, with himself. For in heaven he manifested himself as the supreme good, to be tasted and enjoyed by the blessed for ever.” Mark 10:18.”
Psa 135:3, “Praise the LORD, for the LORD is good;
Sing praises to His name, for it is lovely.”
Jer 33:11, “the voice of joy and the voice of gladness, the voice of the groom and the voice of the bride, the voice of those who say, “Give thanks to the LORD of armies, for the LORD is good, for His mercy is everlasting,”
as they bring athanksgiving offering into the house
of the LORD. For I will restore the fortunes of the
The voice of joy, and the voice of gladness,…. Such is the voice of the Gospel to all sensible sinners; whose eyes are opened to see their lost estate; whose ears are opened to hear the joyful sound: whose hearts are opened to attend to the things spoken in it; who are humble and contrite, wounded and broken in spirit, and have a spiritual understanding of things given them: to these the Gospel preached is glad tidings of great joy; since it contains in it the doctrines of peace and pardon through the blood of Christ; of justification through his righteousness; of rest in him, and salvation by him. It is a voice of joy and gladness to all believers in Christ; since hereby they hear of Christ whom they love; they hear of the love of God in him, and of the love of him to them; it is food to their souls; and when found, under the hearing of it, it is the joy and rejoicing of their hearts; and whereas they are continually sinning in thought, word, or deed, the doctrine of pardon must be joyful to them. Moreover, this may be meant of the voice of those that come to the church of God, with songs of joy and gladness, for electing, redeeming, calling, pardoning, and justifying grace; the voice of young converts, and of all them that rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh; see Isaiah 35:10; and why may not the ordinance of singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, be included? since those are enjoined to be sung, and are sung in Gospel churches, Ephesians 5:19;
the voice of the bridegroom, and the voice of the bride; which, literally understood, is expressive of great joy and happiness; as the contrary signifies great calamity and distress; see Jeremiah 7:34. It may be understood of such who are in such a natural relation to one another; and yet their voice may intend their joining together in spiritual praise to God. Moreover, by the “bridegroom” may be meant Christ, who has espoused his people to himself, and is their husband, and behaves as such towards them, in all tenderness, care, love, and affection; and his voice was heard in Judea’s land as the bridegroom; John heard it, and rejoiced at it, and so did many others; see Matthew 9:15, John 3:29; and the Gospel indeed is no other than his voice; and a soul quickening, soul comforting, and soul alluring, and charming voice it is. And by the “bride” may be meant the church, who is the bride, the Lamb’s wife, being married to him; whose voice of prayer and praise to Christ, and of encouragement to sensible sinners, is heard in Zion, and is very desirable, Sol 2:14;
the voice of them that shall say, praise the Lord of hosts; the husband of his church, and Redeemer of his people, and who is the sovereign Lord of all; the voice of such is heard, who stir up others to this work and service, and enforce it by the reasons following:
for the Lord is good; originally and essentially in himself, and the fountain of goodness to others; the good Head and Husband of his church; the good Samaritan: the good Shepherd of his sheep, and Saviour of his people:
for his mercy endureth for ever; it is from everlasting to everlasting; in his love and pity he has redeemed his church; and this is seen in his tender care of her, and will endure to eternal life: these words seem to be taken out of Psalm 106:1; and were used by the Jews at the laying of the foundation of the second temple, Ezra 3:11;
and of them that shall bring the sacrifice of praise into the house of the Lord; the church of the living God, the materials of which are lively stones, or true believers in Christ; into which none should enter without an offering; and this should be a spiritual one, the sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving; which God has enjoined as well pleasing to him, because it glorifies him. This shows that this prophecy belongs to Gospel times; since no other sacrifice is mentioned as brought into the house of God but the sacrifice of praise. And remarkable is the note of Kimchi on this passage;
“he does not say a sin offering, or a trespass offering, because at this time there will be no ungodly persons and sinners among them, for they shall all know the Lord. And so our Rabbins of blessed memory say, all offerings shall cease in time to come (the times of the Messiah) but the sacrifice of praise;”
for I will cause to return the captivity of the land as at the first,
saith the Lord: a release from spiritual captivity, or redemption by Christ; being the foundation of all solid joy, praise, and thanksgiving.”
Jer 33:11, “the voice of joy and the voice of gladness, the voice of the groom and the voice of the
bride, the voice of those who say, “Give thanks to
the LORD of armies, for the LORD is good,
for His mercy is everlasting,”as they bring a thanksgiving offering into the house of the LORD. For I will restore the fortunes of the land as they were at first,’ says the LORD.”
The Lord is good;though so terrible to his enemies, to obstinate sinners, yet he is as gentle, kind, and good to his people, to Israel; so the Chaldee paraphrast. Is good; in his just severity he continueth to be good. None of that consuming anger comes from any want of goodness in God; yea, it is as much an effect of his goodness, as just punishments on incorrigible malefactors are the effects of goodness in a judge or magistrate. But here the prophet intends rather the kindness and grace of God towards his people, to whom he doth good, and will do more. Psalm 73:1 119:68. A strong hold; it might have been rendered, good to be a strong hold, as the Hebrew affix imports, and is sometimes rendered. Though Israel seems to be exposed to the violence of enemies, and to be without any munition or fortress, yet verily the Lord their God is for a defence and fortress to them, Psalm 31:3 61:3 Proverbs 18:10, and is their strength also in that fortress. In the day of trouble; at all times of affliction and danger, when outward pressures fill us with anguish and fears. Knoweth; discerneth, approveth, owneth, and will make it appear that he doth preserve, that he may deliver his peculiar ones. He knows the wicked, and will restrain, rebuke, and destroy them; he knows the good, and will protect, rescue, and save them. Them; whether you consider them in a body and community, or by themselves apart, or singly. That trust; believe, depend, and wait on God, they that depend by faith, and wait with hope. In him; on God, or on Christ, or on the word and promise of God. So God was to those that trusted in his word of promise in Hezekiah’s time.”
18.) The Lord is compassionate and gracious.
Psa 103:8, “The LORD is compassionate and gracious,
The Lord is merciful and gracious – See the notes at Psalm 78:38. The idea here is derived evidently from Exodus 34:6-7 – that great and glorious statement of God himself in regard to his own character. Our world is a different world under that statement from what it would be if that and kindred declarations had not been made. There is here a “progression” of thought; an “advance” on the previous statements. At first the psalmist referred to his own individual experience Psalm 103:3-5; then he referred to the dealings of God toward the Hebrew people Psalm 103:6-7; and now he rises to the general contemplation of his character as it relates to all mankind. It was a characteristic of God in respect to all, that he was kind, compassionate, and forbearing.
Slow to anger – That is, patient; not soon excited; bearing much, and bearing it long. See James 5:11; compare Exodus 34:6-7.
And plenteous in mercy – Margin, “great of mercy.” The Hebrew word means “much,” or great;” and the idea is, that mercy is not manifested by him in small or stinted measure. It is rich; full; abundant; overflowing; free.”
Psa 111:4, “He has caused His wonders to be remembered;
The LORD is gracious and compassionate.”
On Psa 103:8, it says, “The LORD is compassionate and gracious.
3. He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered] Lit. made a memorial for his wonderful works, particularly the deliverance of His people from Egypt, by the continuous tradition which they were charged to hand on from one generation to another (Psalm 78:3; Exodus 12:26; &c.), and by the festivals and ordinances which commemorated that deliverance, especially the Passover (Exodus 12:14). But the words may also be rendered, He hath made (himself) a memorial by his wonderful works, won for Himself honour by them[70]. Cp. Nehemiah 9:10, “So thou didst get thee a name”; Exodus 14:4; Exodus 14:17. [70] Zçker, ‘memorial,’ is nearly equivalent to ‘name’ (Psalm 135:13, and often). gracious and full of compassion] Cp. Psalm 103:8. Fundamental attributes of Jehovah (Exodus 34:6) illustrated in the Exodus, and in all His dealings with Israel (Nehemiah 9:17; Nehemiah 9:31).”
Psalm 113:4-6. The Lord is high above all nations — Superior to all princes and bodies of people in the world; and his glory above the heavens — Whereas the glory of earthly monarchs is confined to this lower world, and to small pittances of it, the glory of God doth not only fill the earth, but heaven too, where it is celebrated by thousands and myriads of blessed angels; yea, it is far higher than heaven, being infinite and incomprehensible, Who is like unto the Lord? — Hebrew, Jehovah, who dwelleth on high — Namely, far above all heavens, and is exalted, as in place, so in power and dignity, above all persons and things, visible and invisible. Who humbleth himself, &c. — Who is so high, that it is a wonderful condescension in him to take any notice of his holy and heavenly hosts, and much more of sinful and miserable men upon earth.”
Verse 4. – Behold, God is mine Helper. There is a pause between vers. 3 and 4, indicated by the pause-mark, “Selah.” Then, confident of his prayer having been heard, the psalmist breaks out into a joyous burst of thankfulness and self-gratulation (vers. 4-7). The Lord is with them that uphold my soul; rather, of them (Revised Version); i.e. “one of them.” But the intention is not to place God on a par with other helpers. Rather, as Professor Cheyne remarks, it is to make him the representative of” the class of helpers.” Psalm 54:4.”
For I know that the Lord is great,…. Jehovah the Father is great in his perfections; in his power, wisdom, faithfulness, grace, and goodness; and in his works of creation, providence, and grace: and so is Jehovah the Son, who seems chiefly designed, who is called “our Lord” or “Adon” in the next clause; he is great, having the same perfections his Father has; and doing the same works, besides the miracles he wrought here on earth, and the great work of our redemption: he is the great God and our Saviour, and a great Saviour he is; and indeed he is great in all his offices of Prophet, Priest, and King: and so is the blessed Spirit, who is equal to the Father and Son, and greater than he that is in the world. Now all this the psalmist could say from his own knowledge; he knew the Lord was great, from the consideration and meditation of his wondrous works; he knew the greatness of Christ, from the revelation made to him of his person, offices, and grace; he knew the greatness of the divine Spirit, from the inward experience of his upon his heart, as well as from his being divinely inspired by him; and because of this greatness of the Lord, as well as his goodness, he is to be praised; it is mentioned as a reason of it;
and that our Lord is above all gods; the Lord our righteousness; Immanuel, God with us: our Lord, not only by right of creation, but of redemption; he is above all that the Heathens called gods, even the greatest of them; not the idols their hands made only, but the heavens and all the host of them, the sun, moon, and stars; his glory is above them, being the Maker of them, as God; and he is made higher than they, as man and Mediator: he is above civil magistrates, princes, and kings of the earth, called gods, Psalm 82:5; he is King of kings, and Lord of lords, he is higher than they; by him they reign, and to him they are accountable; and he is above the angels, sometimes called “Elohim”, or gods, Psalm 8:5; he has a more excellent name and nature than they; he is the Creator of them, the object of their worship, to whom they minister, whose servants they are; and he is now exalted above them in the human nature, at the right hand of God; see Hebrews 1:4.”
Though the Lord be high – This might be rendered “For lofty is Yahweh – and the humble he sees – and the proud he knows from afar.” The idea is, that God – so high and exalted – sees and knows all of every rank among people. The mind of the psalmist had been impressed with a sense of the greatness and majesty of God, but (as if it might be said that one so great could not regard man, so humble and insignificant) he adds, that the fact of God’s exaltation does not prevent his noticing the affairs of people: that the lowly in life need not fear lest they should be overlooked; the proud need not hope that they will escape the notice of his eye.
Yet hath he respect unto the lowly – Those in humble life; the obscure; the unknown. It does not mean here that he has any special favor toward them, but merely that he sees them. Their low and obscure condition does not prevent his observing them, and they need have no fear that he will overlook them, or that they will be forgotten. Compare the notes at James 4:6; notes at 1 Peter 5:5.
But the proud – Those of lofty rank, and of lofty feelings; the haughty.
He knoweth afar off – From afar. Though he is exalted – though he is in heaven – yet he is not so far removed but that he sees them, and knows them altogether. Distance from him is no protection for them; nor can the wicked hope to escape notice from the fact that God reigns over distant worlds.”
Isa 33:5, “The LORD is exalted, for He dwells on high;
He has filled Zion with justice and righteousness.”
Benson CommentaryIsaiah 33:5-6. The Lord is exalted — By the destruction of so potent an army, and by the defence of his people. For he dwelleth on high — He is, and will appear to be, superior to his enemies, both in place and power. He dwelleth in heaven, whence he can easily and irresistibly pour down judgments upon his enemies. He hath fulfilled — Or, he will fill Zion — Or Jerusalem; with judgment and righteousness — That is, either, 1st, With a glorious instance of his just judgment against the Assyrians; or, 2d, With the execution of justice by good Hezekiah, and the practice of righteousness among the people, as before the same city was filled with impiety and injustice under Ahaz. The city shall not only be delivered from that wicked enemy, but shall also be established and blessed with true religion and righteousness; which was a great addition to that mercy. And wisdom and knowledge — To govern thyself and the people well. The words seem to be addressed to Hezekiah, either by the prophet, or, as Bishop Lowth thinks, by a chorus of the Jews. Shall be the stability of thy times — Of thy reign; times being often put for the things done in those times, The sense is, thy throne shall be established upon the sure foundations of wisdom and justice; and strength of salvation — Thy saving strength, or thy strong and mighty salvation. The fear of the Lord is his treasure — Thy chief treasure and delight shall be in promoting the fear and worship of God, which shall be a great honour and safeguard to thyself and people.”
23.) The Lord is faithful.
Psa 145:13, “Your Kingdom is an everlasting Kingdom,
13. This verse is found also, in Aramaic, in Daniel 4:3, cp. 34 (Aram. Dan. 3:33, Daniel 4:31). an everlasting kingdom] Lit. a kingdom of all the ages, past alike and future. With the LXX βασιλεία πάντων τῶν αἰωνων, cp. 1 Timothy 1:17τῷ βασιλεῖ τῶν αἰώνων, ‘unto the king of the ages.’ See also Psalm 10:16; Psalm 29:10; Exodus 15:18; Jeremiah 10:10. throughout all generations] In (or over) generation and generation, each successive generation. The verse beginning with Nûn, which is missing in the Hebrew text, is thus supplied in the LXX and Versions dependent on it, and in the Syr.; Faithful Is the Lord in [all] his words, And holy in all his works[86]. [86] πιστὸς Κύριος ἐν [πᾶσιν, אc.a RT] τοῖς λόγοις αὐτοῦ, καὶ ὅσιος ἐν πᾶσι τοῖς ἔργοις αὐτοῦ. The Heb. found in the lower margin of one late Heb. MS נֶאֱמָן יְהֹוָה בְּכָל־דְּבָוָיו וְחָסִיד בְּל־מַעֲשָׂיו is probably only a re-translation from the LXX. If this verse is genuine, it must have been lost at an early date, for it is not found in any of the later versions[87]. Against its genuineness it is argued that the first line is suggested by the occurrence of the word for ‘faithful’ (nĕ’emân) in the same position in Psalm 111:7b, and by the language of Deuteronomy 7:9, and that the second line is simply taken from Psalm 145:17. It may however be genuine. It is not likely that the Nûn verse was originally omitted: it was not necessary for the LXX to supply it: and the Psalm contains many imitations and is not free from repetitions. [87] The verse is given in Lagarde’s ed. of Jerome’s Version; but it is not found in some good MSS and is obelised in others, and is probably an interpolation from the Vulg. with which it agrees exactly.”
2 Th 3:3, “But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.”
3. But the Lord is faithful] In the Greek order, But faithful is the Lord. Man’s want of faith suggests by contrast the faithfulness of our Divine Lord (Faith and Faithfulness are alike denoted by pistis in Greek; as Believing and Faithful—Trusting and Trusty—alike by pistos). Comp., for this contrast, Romans 3:3; 2 Timothy 2:13. “The Lord” appears to be throughout these Epistles the Lord Christ, Ruler and Defender of His people. Comp. 2 Timothy 4:17, “The Lord stood by me … The Lord shall save me into His heavenly kingdom.” So he continues: who will establish you, and guard you from the Evil One. On “stablish,” see notes to 1 Thessalonians 3:2; 1 Thessalonians 3:13, and ch. 2 Thessalonians 2:17 above. It denotes the settled, steady confidence which this young Church required, assailed by persecution from without and alarms from within. While the unbelief of men made the Apostle think of the faith-keeping Lord, behind these “evil men” (2 Thessalonians 3:2) he saw another and mightier enemy,—“the Evil One” (R.V.). The Greek adjective may be read either in the neuter (the evil, evil in general), as by A.V. and R.V. margin; or in the masculine, as by the R.V. text. There is the same ambiguity in the words of the Lord’s Prayer, and in the Sacramental Prayer of Jesus (Matthew 6:13; John 17:15); in which instances also the Revisers, rightly as we think, prefer the personal rendering. Both our Lord and the Apostle John, in passages where the termination of the adjective is unequivocal—Matthew 13:19; 1 John 2:13-14; 1 John 5:18—point out the Evil One as the enemy of Christ and His people and injurer of their work; and in Ephesians 6:16, while the grammatical form is ambiguous, it is “the Evil One” who shoots “the fire-tipped darts.” So, surely, here; and in the two prayers of Jesus, echoed seemingly in this passage. The conflict of the Church and of the Christian life is not a matter of principles alone and abstract forces; it is a personal encounter, and behind all forces there are living wills. This is the plain teaching of Christ and the New Testament. The Evil One is “the Satan” of ch. 2 Thessalonians 2:9; 1 Thessalonians 2:18; and “the Tempter” of 1 Thessalonians 3:5. “The Lord will guard you;” comp. the words of Jesus in John 17:12, “I guarded them (the disciples), and not one of them perished, except the son of perdition.” Like rescue (2 Thessalonians 3:2), guard is a military word, implying conflict and armed protection: Vulgate, custodiet. Though St Paul began by asking the Thessalonians to pray for him, yet “it is plain that he was more anxious for them than for himself” (Calvin). Their safety is ensured by the Lord’s fidelity: but it requires their own obedience; and this the Apostle counts upon:—”
24.) The Lord is near to all who call on Him.
Psa 145:18, “The LORD is near to all who call on Him,
Verse 18. – The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him (comp. Deuteronomy 4:7; Psalm 34:18; Psalm 46:1; Psalm 119:151, etc.). God draws near to those who draw near to him; i.e. he makes his presence (which is always everywhere) felt by them. To all that call upon him in truth. A limiting clause. Mere formal prayer is useless, does not lessen the distance between God and man, rather augments it. If we really desire to enjoy the consciousness of his presence, we must call upon him “in truth,” i.e. sincerely, with earnest desire and strong confidence. Psalm 145:18.”
Proverbs 15:29. The Lord is far from the wicked — They set him at defiance, and therefore he sets himself at a distance from them; they say to the Almighty, Depart from us, and he accordingly does depart, and is far from them; he does not manifest himself to them, has no communion with them, will not hear them when they cry to him, nor help them, no, not in the time of their need; and they shall be for ever banished from his presence, and he will behold them afar off to all eternity; but he heareth the prayer of the righteous — He will draw near to those in a way of mercy, who draw near to him in a way of duty; he hears and accepts their prayers, and will grant an answer of peace; he is nigh to them, even a present help, in all that which they call upon him for.”
26.) The Lord is the Maker of them all.
Pro 22:2, “The rich and the poor have a common bond,
Verse 2. – The rich and poor meet together (Proverbs 29:13): the Lord is the Maker of them all (Job 34:19). God has ordained that there shall be rich and poor in the world, and that they should meet in the intercourse of life. These social inequalities are ordered for wise purposes; the one helps the other. The labour of the poor makes the wealth of the rich; the wealth of the rich enables him to employ and aid the poor. Their common humanity, their fatherhood in God, should make them regard one another as brethren, without distinction of rank or position: the rich should not despise the poor (Proverbs 14:31; Proverbs 17:5; Job 31:15), the poor should not envy the rich (Proverbs 3:31), but all should live in love and harmony as one great family of God. Proverbs 22:2.”
For the Lord is our Judge,…. The Lord Christ, who has all judgment committed to him by the Father, who will judge his people, right their wrongs, and avenge their injuries:
the Lord is our Lawgiver; who has enacted wholesome laws for his church, writes them on their hearts, and puts his Spirit within them, to enable them to keep them:
the Lord is our King: King of saints, King of Zion, made so by his Father, owned by his church, under whose government it is in safety:
he will save us; from all sin, and from all enemies, with an everlasting salvation. The church here speaks with great pleasure of her interest in Christ under every character, and of her safety as depending upon him. The Targum is,
“the Lord is our Judge, who brought us by his power out of Egypt; the Lord is our teacher, who gave us the doctrine of the law from Sinai; the Lord is our King, he will redeem us, and take vengeance of judgment for us on the army of Gog;”
which shows that the ancient Jews understood this prophecy as referring to times yet to come.”
The Lord is the true God: q. d. All these are but false gods: Jehovah is the alone true God; they are but lies, and the teachers of lies. God is truth itself, and that both in regard of his essence, as it is ascribed to Christ, 1Jo 5:20; and also in regard of his faithfulness, Numbers 23:19Psalm 31:5. He is the living God; these are all but dead stocks and stones, Jehovah is the only living God, having life in himself, and giving life to all things else, John 5:21,26. Hence these idols are not only more base than any other creature, but even viler than the matter itself of which they are made. An everlasting King: these, though accounted kings, and countenanced by kings, yet both they and their kings do all perish; time devours them all with worm or rust, or by injuries and violence offered to them, as in the next verse; but none of these or any thing else can affect the true God, he is everlasting. At his wrath the earth shall tremble; he can with his look or frown make the foundations of the heaven and the earth to shake, whereas these stocks can move them no more than they can themselves, which is not one hair’s breadth from their stations. The nations shall not be able to abide his indignation; not able either to stop it or bear it, but must stoop and fall under it, Psalm 76:7; the wicked will not be able to stand in judgment, Psalm 1:5.
29.) The Lord is our righteousness.
Jer 33:16, “In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety; and this is the name by which it will be called: the LORD is our righteousness.”
In those days shall Judah be saved, and Jerusalem shall dwell safely: it is the opinion of some that a spiritual salvation and security is promised under these expressions, but the most and best interpreters rather understand it of a temporal salvation as primarily intended, though typical of that spiritual and eternal salvation which is often promised to the true Israel of God; as their rest in Canaan typified that rest which remaineth for the people of God. And this is the name wherewith she shall be called, The Lord our righteousness: our translation of this phrase is something strange, the words in the Hebrew are hl adqy hx wgqa hwxy Pagnine translateth them, and he who shall call it the Lord our righteousness, supplying the verb substantive, is: He who shall call it is the Lord our righteousness. We translate it, this is the name wherewith it shall be called, &c.; that which causes the difficulty is, that the pronoun hz which signifieth he, is applied both to persons and things, and translated he or it, and the relative dva is of all cases, so may be translated who, or which, or with which; those words which our translators have supplied, is the name, are not in the Hebrew. This hath made a great doubt amongst interpreters, whether The Lord our righteousness be the name of Christ, or the name of the city. I do incline to their opinion who think that it is here mentioned as the name of Christ. In that sense there is nothing to be understood but the verb substantive, is, which is ordinarily understood; so the words are thus, and he who shall call it, is, the Lord our righteousness. The context seemeth to favour this, Christ being that Ruler mentioned Jeremiah 33:15, as he who shall execute justice and judgment in the land; besides that, there is no such name any where given, either to the Jewish or Christian church, as the Lord our righteousness, but the full import of that name is spoken of Christ, Isaiah 45:23, which text is applied to Christ, Romans 14:11Philippians 2:10; he is called the just King, Zechariah 9:9, and our righteousness, 1 Corinthians 1:30.
Even the righteousness of God – The apostle, having stated that the design of the gospel was to reveal a new plan of becoming just in the sight of God, proceeds here more fully to explain it. The explanation which he offers, makes it plain that the phrase so often used by him, “righteousness of God,” does not refer to an attribute of God, but to his plan of making people righteous. Here he says that it is by faith in Jesus Christ; but surely an attribute of God is not produced by faith in Jesus Christ. It means God’s mode of regarding people as righteous through their belief in Jesus Christ.
(That the “righteousness of God” cannot be explained of the attribute of justice, is obvious enough. It cannot be said of divine justice, that it is “unto and upon all them that believe.” But we are not reduced to the alternative of explaining the phrase, either of God’s justice, or God’s plan of justifying people. Why may we not understand it of that righteousness which Yahweh devised, Jesus executed, and the Spirit applies; and which is therefore justly denominated the righteousness of God? It consists in that conformity to law which Jesus manifested in his atoning death, and meritorious obedience. His death, by reason of his divine nature, was of infinite value. And when he voluntarily submitted to yield a life that was forfeited by no transgression of his own, the Law, in its penal part, was more magnified than if every descendant of Adam had sunk under the weight of its vengeance.
Nor was the preceptive part of the Law less honored, in the spotless obedience of Christ. He abstained from every sin, fulfilled every duty, and exemplified every virtue. Neither God nor man could accuse him of failure in duty. To God he gave his piety, to man his glowing love, to friends his heart, to foes his pity and his pardon. And by the obedience of the Creator in human form, the precept of the Law was more honored than if the highest angels had come down to do reverence to it, in presence of people. Here then is a righteousness worthy of the name, divine, spotless, broad, lasting – beyond the power of language to characterize. It is that everlasting righteousness which Daniel predicted the Messiah should bring in. Adam’s righteousness failed and passed away. That of once happy angels perished too, but this shall endure. “The heavens,” says Yahweh,” shall vanish away like smoke, and the earth shall wax old like a garment, and they that dwell therein shall die in like manner, but my salvation shall be forever, and my righteousness shall not be abolished,” This righteousness is broad enough to cover every sinner and every sin. It is pure enough to meet the eye of God himself. It is therefore the sinner’s only shield. See the note at Romans 1:17, for the true meaning of the expression “righteousness of God.”)
By faith of Jesus Christ – That is, by faith in Jesus Christ. Thus, the expression, Mark 11:22, “Have the faith of God” (margin), means, have faith in God. So Acts 3:16, the “faith of his name” “(Greek),” means, faith in his name. So Galatians 2:20, the “faith of the Son of God” means, faith in the Son of God. This cannot mean that faith is the meritorious cause of salvation, but that it is the instrument or means by which we become justified. It is the state of mind, or condition of the heart, to which God has been pleased to promise justification. (On the nature of faith see the note at Mark 16:16.) God has promised that they who believe in Christ shall be pardoned and saved. This is his plan in distinction from the plan of those who seek to be justified by works.
Unto all and upon all – It is evident that these expressions are designed to be emphatic, but why both are used is not very apparent. Many have supposed that there was no essential difference in the meaning. If there be a difference, it is probably this: the first expression, “unto all” εἰς πᾶς eis pas, may denote that this plan of justification has come “(Luther)” unto all men, to Jews and Gentiles; that is, that it has been provided for them, and offered to them without distinction. The plan was ample for all, was suited for all, was equally necessary for all, and was offered to all. The second phrase, “upon all” ἐπὶ πᾶντας epi pantas, , may be designed to guard against the supposition that all therefore would be benefited by it, or be saved by the mere fact that the announcement had come to all. The apostle adds therefore, that the benefits of this plan must actually come upon all, or must be applied to all, if they would be justified. They could not be justified merely by the fact that the plan was provided, and that the knowledge of it had come to all, but by their actually coming under this plan, and availing themselves of it. Perhaps there is reference in the last expression, “upon all,” to a robe, or garment, that is placed upon one to hide his nakedness, or sin; compare Isaiah 64:6, also Philippians 3:9.
For there is no difference – That is, there is no difference in regard to the matter under discussion. The apostle does not mean to say that there is no difference in regard to the talents, dispositions, education, and property of people; but there is no distinction in regard to the way in which they must be justified. All must be saved, if saved at all, in the same mode, whether Jews or Gentiles, bond or free, rich or poor, learned or ignorant. None can be saved by works; and all are therefore dependent on the mercy of God in Jesus Christ.”
30.) The Lord is a God of retribution.
Jer 51:56, “For the destroyer is coming against her, against Babylon, and her warriors will be captured,
their bows shattered; for the LORD is a God of retribution,He will fully repay.”
Because the spoiler is come upon her, even upon Babylon,…. That is, Cyrus, with his army:
and her mighty men are taken; unawares, by surprise:
everyone of their bows is broken; they had no strength to withstand the enemy, and were obliged to yield at once; lay down their arms, and submit:
for the Lord God of recompences shall surely requite; that God to whom vengeance belongs, and will recompense it; who is a God of justice and equity, the Judge of all the earth; he will render tribulation to them that trouble his; and requite his enemies and the enemies of his people, in a righteous manner, for all the evil they have done, as literal, so mystical Babylon; see Revelation 18:6.”
31.) The Lord is good to those who await Him
Lam 3:25, “The LORD is good to those who await Him,
The Lord is good to them that wait for him,…. For the enjoyment of him as their portion in this world, and in that to come; for his presence here and hereafter; which they are sometimes now deprived of, but should wait patiently for it; since he has his set time to arise and favour them with it; to such is he “good” communicatively, and in a special way and manner. They that wait for him shall not be ashamed, or disappointed of what they expect; they shall renew their spiritual strength, and grow stronger and stronger; they shall inherit the earth, the new heavens and the new earth; enjoy many blessings now, and have good things laid up for them hereafter, eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Isaiah 49:23; perhaps some regard may be had to the coming of Christ in the flesh, which the saints then expected, and were waiting for in faith and hope; to whom the Lord was good and gracious in due time, by performing the mercy promised them, Isaiah 25:9;
to the soul that seeketh him; that seeketh him aright; that seeks him by prayer and supplication; that seeks him in his house and ordinances, where he is to be found; that seeks him early, in the first place, and above all things else; that seeks him earnestly, diligently, with his whole spirit, heart, and soul; that seeks his face, his favour, grace, and glory, and all in Christ, through whom all are to be enjoyed. God is good to such souls; he is a rewarder of them in a way of grace; with himself, as their shield and exceeding great reward; with his Son, and all things freely with him; with his Spirit and graces, and with eternal glory and happiness; such find what they seek for, Christ, his grace, and eternal fire; the Lord never forsakes them, nor the work of his hand in them, and they shall live spiritually and eternally; see Hebrews 11:6.”
Even the Lord God of hosts,…. The God Jacob had power over, the Angel he prevailed with, to whom he made supplication with weeping, and who spake with him and his in Bethel, is he whose name is Jehovah; who is the true and living God, the Lord of hosts and armies both in heaven and in earth; of all the angels in heaven, and the legions of them; and of the church militant, and all the saints, who are the good soldiers of Christ, his spiritual militia; and he is the Captain of the Lord’s host, and of their salvation, and to whom all the numerous hosts of creatures, be they what they will, are subject: this is observed, to set off the greatness of the person Jacob wrestled with, and his wondrous grace, in condescending to be overpowered by him:
the Lord is his memorial: or his name, Jehovah, which belongs to this angel, the Son of God, as to his divine Father; and which is expressive of his divine existence, of his eternity and immutability; this is his memorial, or the remembrancer of him; which puts his people in all ages in remembrance of him, what he is, what an infinite, almighty, and all sufficient Being he is; and he is always to be believed in, and trusted to, and to be served, adored, and worshipped. The Targum adds, to every generation and generation.”
Verse 8. – Striking instances are given of God’s creative power and omnipotence. Seek him that maketh the seven stars. “Seek him” is not in the Hebrew. “He that maketh,” etc., is in direct antithesis to “ye who turn,” etc. (ver. 7). The seven stars; Hebrew, kimah, “the heap,” the constellation of the Pleiades (Job 9:9; Job 38:31). The Septuagint here has, ὁ ποιῶν πάντα, but in Job has πλειάς. The Vulgate gives, facientem Arcturum. Symmachus and Theodotion give πλειάδα in the present passage. The identification of this term is discussed in the ‘Dictionary of the Bible,’ 2:891. The observation of this most remarkable cluster among the heavenly bodies would be natural to the pastoral life of Amos. And Orion; Hebrew, kesil, “foolish,” a rebel, the name being applied to Nimrod, whose representation was found by the Easterns in this constellation. Some render kesil, “gate;” others connect it with the Arabia sohail, equivalent to Sirius, or Canopus. The Septuagint here has, καὶ μετασκευάζων, “and changing,” which looks as if the translator was not familiar with the Hebrew word, and substituted something in its place. It reads Ὠρίωνος in Job 38:31. Turneth the shadow of death into the morning. “The shadow of death,” the depth of darkness. This and the following clause do not simply state that the regular interchange of day and night is in God’s hands, but rather notify that God is a moral Governor of the world. He saves men from the utmost dangers, from the darkness of sin and from the night of ignorance; and, on the other hand, he sends calamity on those that offend his Law (comp. Amos 4:13). Maketh the day dark with night; literally, as the Septuagint ἡμέραν εἰς νύκτα συσκοτάζων, “darkeneth day into night.” That calleth for the waters of the sea, etc. As judgments are the prophet’s theme, this expression cannot be an intimation of the working of the natural law by which the moisture taken up from the sea as cloud returns upon the earth as rain (comp. Amos 9:6). Rather it is an allusion to the Flood and similar catastrophes, which are proofs of God’s judicial government of the universe, when “he maketh the creature his weapon for the revenge of his enemies” (Wisd. 5:17). The Lord is his Name. Jehovah, the self-existent God, doeth all these marvellous things, and men presume to scout his Law and think to be unpunished (Amos 4:13). Amos 5:8.”
16. Jehovah draws near in a mighty storm; heaven and earth quake before Him: but His judgement lights only upon His foes; to His own people He proves Himself a stronghold and defence. And Jehovahshall roarfromZion, and utter his voice from Jerusalem] Borrowed verbatim from Amos 1:2, where see the note. The figures of the lion’s roar, and of the noise of thunder, are combined. The details of the judgement are not described; but it must no doubt be imagined that in the storm, and the earthquake accompanying it (see the next words), the nations are struck down and destroyed (comp. for the figure Isaiah 28:2; Isaiah 29:6-8; Isaiah 30:30-31). The fact that Jehovah puts forth His power from Zion, His earthly abode, and the sacred capital of the theocracy, is naturally a favourable omen for His faithful people. and the heavens and the earth shallquake] Cf. Joel 2:10. butJehovah will be a refuge untohis people, anda strong hold tothe children of Israel] The terms used so often of Jehovah in the Psalms: see e.g. Psalm 14:6; Psalm 46:1; Psalm 27:1; Psalm 31:4; Psalm 43:2.”
Micah 7:8-9. Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy — Here begins a new subject; the Jewish nation in general being here introduced speaking in their captivity, and addressing themselves to the Chaldeans. When I fall I shall rise — Or, because I am fallen; for I shall rise. When I sit in darkness, the Lord shall be a light unto me — Neither rejoice nor triumph over me, because I at present sit in darkness, or misery, for Jehovah will again make me prosperous. I will bear the indignation of the Lord — I will patiently, or without repining, bear the affliction, or punishment, Jehovah has inflicted upon me. Because I have sinned against him — Because I am sensible I have highly offended him by my idolatry, injustice, and unmercifulness. Until he plead my cause, and execute judgment for me — Until he shall be pleased to acknowledge my cause, in consequence of my repentance and perseverance in the worship of him, and avenge my injuries on my enemies. It may well be supposed that the Chaldeans made a mock of the Jews for persevering in the worship of Jehovah, or that God who (as they supposed) had not been able to deliver them, his worshippers, out of their hands, the worshippers of Bel and Nebo; whom therefore they esteemed more powerful. He will bring me forth to the light — He will again bring me into a prosperous condition. And I shall behold his righteousness — Or rather, his goodness. What we render righteousness, often signifies, according to the Hebrew, beneficence, or goodness.”
35.) The Lord is avenging and wrathful.
Nah 1:2, “A jealous and avenging God is the LORD; The LORD is
avenging and wrathful.The LORD takes vengeance on His adversaries, and He reserves wrath for His enemies.”
Nahum 1:2-3. God is jealous — For his own glory; and the Lord revengeth — Or rather, avengeth, namely, the cause, or ill treatment, of his people, as being the Supreme Governor, who, by office, is bound to deliver the oppressed, and punish the oppressor: he also vindicates his own insulted honour. And is furious — Or rather, is angry. In the Hebrew it is literally, And is the Lord of anger, or wrath; that is, can easily give effect to his anger, or execute what it prompts him to. It would be well if the epithet furious were for ever banished from the sacred writings; and, indeed, from all others, when speaking of God. He reserveth wrath for his enemies — There is nothing in the Hebrew to answer the word wrath; it is only, He reserveth for his enemies. Some supply the word punishment; He has punishment in store to execute upon his enemies, when he pleaseth. TheLord is slow to anger, and great [rather, although he be great] in power, and [or, but] will not at all acquit the wicked — The sense of the clause seems to be, that although God defers punishment, yet he has it in his power to inflict it at all times; and though it be long delayed, yet it will, in the end, overtake the wicked, unless the long-suffering of God lead them to repentance. The Lord hath his way — The method of his providence; in the whirlwind — Which often riseth suddenly, and beareth before it all things that stand in its way. Thus God’s judgments often come unexpectedly, and are irresistible, and most terribly destructive. And the clouds are the dust of his feet — He makes the clouds his chariot, and employs them to whatever purpose he pleases. This and the two following verses are a very noble and majestic description of the power of the Almighty.”
36.) The Lord is slow to anger and great in power.
Nah 1:3, “The LORD is slow to anger and great in power,and the LORD will by no means leave the guilty unpunished.In the gale and the storm is His way, and clouds are the dust beneath His feet.”
3. Nahum 1:3 continues the description of the relation of Jehovah to His enemies: He is longsuffering, delays chastisement long, but eventually takes vengeance. The meaning of the phrase “great in power” is not clear. If employed in the usual objective sense as Job 9:4, the verse would read, The Lord is slow to anger, but great in strength and will by no means leave unpunished (Romans 9:22). If “great in power” had a sense parallel to Job 36:5, “Lo God is great and despises not, great in strength of heart” (mind), that is, if “strength” referred to attributes of the divine mind, magnanimity and longsuffering, the clause would be connected rather with the first, and the verse would read, “The Lord is slow to anger and great in strength, but he will &c.”; see Numbers 14:17-18, to which the verse has great resemblance. The phrase “will not acquit,” or leave unpunished, is used here absolutely, as Exodus 34:7, it being readily understood who it is that He will not let go unpunished; cf. Exodus 20:7; Joel 3:21; Jeremiah 25:29. For “great in power” some would read the usual “great in mercy.” With Nahum 1:3 b the prophet passes to the manifestation of these attributes of Jehovah or of Jehovah in these attributes in the tempest. The passage does not seem to possess unity as a description of a single Theophany, but rather accumulates features from various manifestations of the Lord, all illustrating His power and its terrible effects in nature and on men. hath his way in the whirlwind] i.e. He moves and passes in the whirlwind, which is not the mere wind but also all its accompaniments of cloud and darkness. (The Heb. word for “Storm” is spelled exceptionally here, as Job 9:17.) The meaning is not so much that Jehovah uses the whirlwind and storm as the vehicles of His movement as that these commotions and terrors in nature are created by His presence, of which to men they are the tokens. The splendid words “the clouds are the dust of his feet,” like the others “the earth is his footstool” need to be conceived, not explained.”
Habakkuk 2:20. But the Lord is in his holy temple — But Jehovah, the true God, is not like one of these, but lives for ever in his holy temple, the heavens, from whence he beholds and governs all things, and is the fountain of being, life, power, and salvation to his people. Let all the earth keep silence before him — Or, as the LXX. render it, stand in awe, or fear before him. The consideration of his infinite perfections, his self-existence, independence, supremacy, immensity, eternity; his omnipresence, omniscience, and omnipotence; his unspotted holiness, his inviolable truth, and impartial justice; and especially his sovereign authority and dominion, should strike all men with a reverential awe, and should dispose them to the most perfect submission toward him; particularly when they see him executing his judgments in the world, as he would shortly do upon the Chaldeans. The expression is taken from the reverent behaviour which young persons, servants, and others are wont to manifest by keeping silence in the presence of their superiors. Or, it alludes to such a silence as is kept in courts of justice, when a judge pronounces the sentence.”
4. All these wrongs they practise undeterred and uninstructed by the presence and operations of the righteous Lord in the midst of them. The just Lord is] Rather: The LORD is righteous in the midst of her. Jehovah dwells in the midst of Jerusalem and is seen to be righteous both by His word and works, but the people are insensible and receive no impression from His presence and nature. Jeremiah 11:20. will not do iniquity] Or, doeth no unrighteousness; Deuteronomy 32:4. Every morning … his judgment to light] Morning by morning, i.e. every morning, constantly, He brings His just judgment or justice to light; His moral rule is as constant and as visible as the material law that brings in the dawn. Cf. Hosea 6:5 (read: my judgment goeth forth like the light). the unjust knoweth no shame] The unrighteous, untouched by the righteousness of God and receiving no impression from His rule, though exercised before his eyes, pursues his own unrighteous way with no feeling of shame. Jeremiah 3:3; Jeremiah 6:15; Jeremiah 8:12.”
39.) The Lord is our God, the Lord is One.
Mar 12:29, “Jesus answered, “The foremost is, ‘HEAR, ISRAEL! THE LORD IS OUR GOD,THE LORD IS ONE.”
The Lord in Greek is kyrios which means the Master; God; the Messiah; the Supreme Authority; the Ruler of the universe; — which occurs 717 times in the New Testament. THE LORD IS ONE. ONE in Greek is heiswhich means one only; the One Absolutely; no one else; not even one; alone; the ONE; — which occurs 345 times in the New Testament.
Jesus answered him, the first of all the commandments is,…. Christ replied at once, without taking any time to consider of it, that the chief and principal of all the commands of the law, and what is of the greatest importance is,
hear, O Israel, the Lord our God is one Lord. The Vulgate Latin, and Arabic versions read, “one God”; but the Syriac, and Ethiopic render it, “one Lord”; and that rightly, agreeably to the Greek text, and to Deuteronomy 6:4, from whence this is taken. This passage of Scripture, to the end of the ninth verse, is the first of the sections which were put into their phylacteries; See Gill on Matthew 23:5; and was repeated twice every day, morning and evening; which is by the Jews called from the first word , “the reading of the Shema”: concerning the exact time of the reciting of this, morning and evening, and of the posture in which they do it, reclining in the evening, and standing in the morning, and of the prayers before and after it, various rules are given in their Misna (p), or oral law; it is a precept of great esteem and veneration with them, and attended to with much solemnity. The account Maimonides (q) gives of it is this:
“twice every day they read Keriath Shema; (i.e. “hear, O Israel”, &c.) in the evening and in morning, as it is said, Deuteronomy 6:7. “When thou liest down, and when thou risest up”; in the hour it is the custom of men to lie down, and this is night; and in the hour it is the custom of men to stand, and this is day: and what does he read? three sections; and they are these, “hear”, &c. Deuteronomy 6:4, and it shall come to pass, “if ye shall hearken”, &c. Deuteronomy 11:13, “and Moses said”, &c. Exodus 13:3, and they read the section, “hear, O Israel”, first, because there is in it the unity of God, and the love of him and his doctrine; for it is, , “the great root”, or “foundation”, on which all hangs or depends.”
And it is observable, that the last letter of the word “hear”, and the last of the word “one”, are both written in very large characters in the Hebrew Bible, to denote the greatness of the command, and to cause attention to it. The Jews seek for mysteries in these letters, and think the unusual size of them, points at some very great things: they observe, that the first of these letters is numerically “seventy”, and directs to the seventy names of the law, and the seventy ways in which it may be interpreted, and the seventy nations of the world, from whom the Israelites are distinguished, by their belief of the one God (r); and that the latter stands for the number “four”, and shows that the Lord is the one God, in heaven and in earth, in all the world, and in the four parts of it; and that both these letters put together, make a word, which signifies “a witness”; showing that this passage is a glorious testimony of the unity of God, and that the Israelites are witnesses of it, by believing and professing it; and that should they depart from the faith of it, God would be a witness against them: and now, though there is no solid foundation for such interpretations, yet this shows what an opinion they had of the greatness of this command; to which, may be added, they ask (s),
“why does, “hear, O Israel”, &c. go before that passage in Deuteronomy 11:13. “And it shall come to pass, if ye shall hearken diligently unto my commandments”, &c. but because a man must take upon him, first the yoke of the kingdom of heaven, and after that he must take upon him the yoke of the commandments.”
The sense is, that he must first make a confession of his faith in God, which is contained in Deuteronomy 6:4 and then he must obey his commands; so that they plainly considered this, as the first and greatest of all. These words are frequent in the mouths of the modern Jews, in proof of the unity of God, and against a plurality in the Deity; but the ancient ones, not only consider them as a good and sufficient proof, that there is but one God, but as expressive of a Trinity in the Godhead: with a view to this text they observe (t), that
“Jehovah, “our God, Jehovah”; these are, , “three degrees” (or persons) with respect to this sublime mystery, “in the beginning, God”, or “Elohim, created”, &c.”
And again (u),
“there is an unity which is called Jehovah the first, our God, Jehovah; behold! they are all one, and therefore called one: lo! these three names are as one; and although we call them one, and they are one; but by the revelation of the Holy Ghost it is made known, and they are by the sight of the eye to be known, that “these three are one”, (see 1 John 5:7,) and this is the mystery of the voice that is heard; the voice is one; and there are three things, fire, and wind, and water, and they are all one, in the mystery of the voice, and they are not but one: so here, Jehovah, our God, Jehovah, these, , “three modes, forms”, or “things”, are one.”
Once more they (w) say,
“there are two, and one is joined to them, and they are three; and when they are three, they are one: these are the two names of hear, O Israel, which are Jehovah, Jehovah, and Elohenu, or our God, is joined unto them; and it is the seal of the ring of truth.”
To which I shall subjoin one passage more, where R. Eliezer is asking his father R. Simeon ben Jochai, why Jehovah is sometimes called Elohim, he replies (x), among other things;
“come see, there are “three degrees”, (or persons,) and every degree is by itself; although they are all one, and bound together in one, and one is not separated from another.”
To believe this, is the first and chief commandment in the law, and is the principal article of the Christian faith; namely, to believe that there is one God, and that there are three persons, Father, Son, and Spirit, in the Godhead.”
40.) The Lord is able.
Rom 14:4, “Who are you to judge the servant of another? To his own master he stands or falls; and he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.”
5. The question has been much debated whether the observance of the Sabbath was one of the tenets of the “weak brethren,” and so whether it is here ruled by St Paul to be not of permanent moral obligation. (Cp. Colossians 2:16.) If by “the Sabbath” is meant the last day of the week strictly, the answer to both questions must be yes. But as to the observance of a divinely-consecrated Weekly Rest, it is evident (from Genesis 2:3 and Exodus 20:8-11, and cp. such passages of prophetic doctrine as Isaiah 58:13-14,) that the institution stands on a very different level from that of the monthly and yearly Mosaic festivals. It is antecedent to all Jewish law, and in the Decalogue of Exodus it is based on strictly universal grounds, and placed among the great elements of moral duty. No doubt it is impossible to trace the whole process of transition from the observance of the Seventh day to that of the First; but the plain fact remains that the sanctity of the primeval weekly worship-rest was of a kind most unlikely to be slightingly put aside by the Apostles; and thus in such places as this and Colossians 2:16 it is far more likely that the wrong opinion in question was that the whole Mosaic code of festivals was still binding in full detail; that therefore the Saturday was the only possible Sabbath; and that it was to be observed by the Rabbinic rules. How to deal with those who might reject the Weekly Rest altogether might be a difficult question. But all we are here called on to enquire is whether it was likely that St Paul, with the O. T. before him, would treat the Sabbath (the Sabbath apart from its Rabbinic aspect) as a thing of the same quality as, for example, the new-moon feast. 4. Who art thou that judgest] The verb “judge” connects this with the “judgment” passed by the “eater of herbs” upon the Christianity of his “stronger” brother.—The word “judge” here (as in Matthew 7:1) manifestly does not forbid the entertainment, nor the right expression, of opinions, but the assumption of a tone of judicial opinion: the thinking of others from a level of isolated authority and sanctity. standeth or falleth] In the sense of acceptance or non-acceptance. Yea, he shall be holden up] Lit. But he shall he made to stand. The “but” points out that of the two alternatives just given (“standing,” “falling,”) the former, in this case, is certain.”
41.) The Lord is the Spirit.
2Co 3:17, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
(17) Now the Lord is that Spirit.—Better, the Lord is the Spirit. The words seem at first inconsistent with the formulated precision of the Church’s creeds, distinguishing the persons of the Godhead from each other. We apply the term “Lord,” it is true, as a predicate of the Holy Spirit when we speak, as in the Nicene Creed, of the Holy Ghost as “the Lord, and Giver of life,” or say, as in the pseudo-Athanasian, that “the Holy Ghost is Lord;” but using the term “the Lord” as the subject of a sentence, those who have been trained in the theology of those creeds would hardly say, “The Lord” (the term commonly applied to the Father in the Old Testament, and to the Son in the New) “is the Spirit.” We have, accordingly, to remember that St. Paul did not contemplate the precise language of these later formularies. He had spoken, in 2Corinthians 3:16, of Israel’s “turning to the Lord;” he had spoken also of his own work as “the ministration of the Spirit” (2Corinthians 3:8). To turn to the Lord—i.e., to the Lord Jesus—was to turn to Him whose essential being, as one with the Father, was Spirit (John 4:24), who was in one sense, the Spirit, the life-giving energy, as contrasted with the letter that killeth. So we may note that the attribute of “quickening,” which is here specially connected with the name of the Spirit (2Corinthians 3:6), is in John 5:21 connected also with the names of the Father and the Son. The thoughts of the Apostle move in a region in which the Lord Jesus, not less than the Holy Ghost, is contemplated as Spirit. This gives, it is believed, the true sequence of St. Paul’s thoughts. The whole verse may be considered as parenthetical, explaining that the “turning to the Lord” coincides with the “ministration of the Spirit.” Another interpretation, inverting the terms, and taking the sentence as “the Spirit is the Lord,” is tenable grammatically, and was probably adopted by the framers of the expanded form of the Nicene Creed at the Council of Constantinople (A.D. 380). It is obvious, however, that the difficulty of tracing the sequence of thought becomes much greater on this method of interpretation.
Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.—The Apostle returns to the more familiar language. To turn to the Lord, who is Spirit, is to turn to the Spirit which is His, which dwelt in Him, and which He gives. And he assumes, almost as an axiom of the spiritual life, that the presence of that Spirit gives freedom, as contrasted with the bondage of the letter—freedom from slavish fear, freedom from the guilt and burden of sin, freedom from the tyranny of the Law. Compare the aspect of the same thought in the two Epistles nearly contemporary with this:—the Spirit bearing witness with our spirit that we are the children of God, those children being partakers of a glorious liberty (Romans 8:16-21); the connection between walking in the Spirit and being called to liberty (Galatians 5:13-16). The underlying sequence of thought would seem to be something like this: “Israel, after all, with all its seeming greatness and high prerogatives, was in bondage, because it had the letter, not the Spirit; we who have the Spirit can claim our citizenship in the Jerusalem which is above and which is free” (Galatians 4:24-31).”
42.) The Lord is the Avenger.
1Th 4:6, “and that no one violate the rights and take advantage of his brother or sister in the matter, because the Lord is the Avenger in all these things, just as we also told you previously and solemnly
6. that no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter] More exactly, that none overreach and take advantage of his brother in the matter. “The matter” is obviously that which occupies the last two verses. Acts of Impurity are social wrongs, as well as sins against the offender’s person. The warning may include any injury done to another touching the affections and engagements that belong to marriage,—“the matter” concerned in the present charge—which is expressly violated by “fornication.” The Apostle sets the wrong in the strongest light: it is to “cheat one’s brother,” and that in what touches most nearly the sanctities of life. Hence the stern warning that follows:— because that the Lord is the avenger of all such] Rather, an avenger; and concerning all these things—in everything that concerns the honour of the human person and the sacredness of wedded life. Comp. Hebrews 13:4, “Let marriage be had in honour … Fornicators and adulterers God will judge.” It is written that “Vengeance belongs to God;” and in this matter He is peculiarly bound to exercise it. as we also have forewarned you and testified] or, solemnly attested: the latter verb implies reference to God, as it is expressed in 2 Timothy 4:1, “before God and Christ Jesus.” On this subject it appears—as to the moral consequences of faith in Christ and the social purity that belongs to the sanctified life—the apostles at Thessalonica had spoken very plainly and solemnly from the first.”
43.) The Lord is full of compassion and is merciful.
Jas 5:11, “We count those blessed who endured. You have heard of the endurance of Job and have seen the outcome of the Lord’s dealings, that the Lord is full of compassion and is merciful.”
11. we count them happy which endure …] Better, we call them blessed, the verb being formed from the adjective used in ch. James 1:12. Comp. Luke 2:48. The words may contain a reference to Daniel 12:12. Ye have heard of the patience of Job] Better, endurance, to keep up the connexion with the verb. It is singular that, though the book is once quoted (1 Corinthians 3:19, Job 5:13), this is the only reference in the New Testament to the history of Job. Philo, however, quotes from Job 14:4 (de Mutat. Nom. xxiv.), and he is referred to by Clement of Rome (1.17.26). The book would naturally be studied by one whose attention had been drawn, as St James’s manifestly had been, to the sapiential Books included in the Hagiographa of the Old Testament. It is obvious that he refers to the book as containing an actual history, as obvious that his so referring to it throws no light on the questions which have been raised, but which it would be out of place to discuss here, as to its authorship and date. and have seen the end of the Lord] The words have received two very different interpretations. (1) They have been referred to the “end” which the “Lord” wrought out for Job after his endurance had been tried, as in Job 42:12. (2) The “end of the Lord” has been understood as pointing to the death and resurrection of Christ as the Lord who had been named in James 5:7, the highest example of patience in the Old Testament being brought into juxtaposition with the Highest of all Examples. On this view the passage becomes parallel with 1 Peter 2:19-25. The clause that follows is, however, decisively in favour of (1), nor is there any instance of a New Testament writer using the term “end” of the passion and death of Christ. Matthew 26:58, which is the nearest approach to such a use, is scarcely in point. that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy] The first of the two adjectives, of which the nearest English equivalent would be large-hearted or perhaps tender-hearted, is not found in any other writer, and may have been a coinage of St James’s. The latter occurs in Sir 2:11, in close juxtaposition with a passage which we have already found referred to in the Epistle (Sir 2:11), and which may therefore have been present to St James’s thoughts. In this instance “the Lord” is clearly used in the Old Testament sense, and this, as has been said, determines the meaning of the previous clause.”
44.) The Lord is not slow about His promise.
2Pe 3:9, “The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not Pulpit Commentary
Verse 9. – The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness. The Lord here, as frequently in these Epistles, is God the Father; it is he only who knoweth that day and that hour (Mark 13:32). Some take the genitive τῆς ἐπαγγελίας with “the Lord,” and translate, “The Lord of the promise is not slack.” This is a possible connection, but, not so satisfactory as the ordinary rendering. (For the genitive with the verb βραδύνει, see Winer, 3:30, 6, b.) The latter clause may be understood, “as some think it, i.e., the delay of the judgment, to be slackness;” or better, perhaps, “as some understand the meaning of slackness.” Men are slow in fulfilling their promises from various, often selfish, motives; the Lord’s delay comes from love and long-suffering. But is long-suffering to us-ward; rather, to you-ward, which seems to be the best-supported reading; two ancient manuscripts give “for your sake.” St. Peter has the same thought in the First Epistle (1 Peter 4:20); there he reminds us how the long-suffering of God waited while the ark was a-preparing; here he tells us that the delay of the judgment, at which unbelievers scoff, is due to the same cause. We note here an item of evidence for the common authorship of the two Epistles (comp. Habakkuk 2:3, quoted in Hebrews 10:37, and Ecclus. 32:22, in the Septuagint; also Augustine’s well-known words, “Pattens quid aeternus”). Not willing that any should perish; rather, not wishing or desiring (μὴ βουλόμενος). The participle gives the reason of the Lord’s delay; he hath no pleasure that the wicked should die (Ezekiel 18:23, 32, and Ezekiel 33:11). But that all should come to repentance. The G reek word for “come” (χωρῆσαι), occurs in the same sense in Matthew 15:17 (see also the remarkable parallel from Plutarch, ‘De Flum.,’ page 19 (quoted by Alford), εἰς μετάνοιαν… χωρήσας). Calvin takes it transitively, “willing to receive all to repentance.” But the common translation is plainly right (comp. 1 Timothy 2:4 combined with 2 Timothy 2:25). 2 Peter 3:9.”
God is not willing for any to perish, but for all to come to repentance. There is no reason or excuse for you to go to Hell.
To receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior is to receive the eternal life.
Neither let us commit fornication … – The case referred to here was that of the licentious contact with the daughters of Moab, referred to in
And fell in one day – Were slain for their sin by the plague that prevailed.
Three and twenty thousand – The Hebrew text in Numbers 25:9, is twenty-four thousand. In order to reconcile these statements, it may be observed that perhaps 23,000 fell directly by the plague, and 1,000 were slain by Phinehas and his companions (Grotius); or it may be that the number was between 23,000 and 24,000, and it might be expressed in round numbers by either – Macknight. At all events, Paul has not exceeded the truth. There were at least 23,000 that fell, though there might have been more. The probable supposition is, that the 23,000 fell immediately by the hand of God in the plague, and the other thousand by the judges; and as Paul’s design was particularly to mention the proofs of the immediate divine displeasure, he refers only to those who fell by that, in illustration of his subject – There was a particular reason for this caution in respect to licentiousness:
(1) It was common among all idolaters; and Paul in cautioning them against idolatry, would naturally warn them of this danger.
(2) it was common at Corinth. It was the prevalent vice there. To “Corinthianize” was a term synonymous among the ancients with licentiousness.
(3) so common was this at Corinth, that, as we have seen (see the introduction), not less than 1,000 prostitutes were supported in a single temple there; and the city was visited by vast multitudes of foreigners, among other reasons on account of its facilities for this sin. Christians, therefore, were in a special manner exposed to it; and hence, the anxiety of the apostle to warn them against it.”
I had been warned by people that they did not like the way I preached against sexual sins. Since I do not get pay for doing it, why should I do it anyway? A sleepless night of deliberation forced me to do it.
Eze 33:7, “Now as for you, son of man, I have appointed you as a
watchman for the house of Israel; so you will hear a message from My mouth and give them a warning from Me.”
Eze 3:18-19, “When I say to the wicked, ‘You will certainly die,’ and you do not warn him or speak out to warn the wicked from his wicked way so that he may live, that wicked person shall die for wrongdoing, but his blood I will require from your hand. However if you have warned the wicked and he does not turn from his wickedness or from his wicked way, he shall die for wrongdoing, but you have saved yourself.”
The Word of God says not only I clear myself from the responsibility, I have saved myself.
Verse 18. – Thou givest him not warning, etc. The word, as in the parallels already referral to, is characteristic of Ezekiel, almost indeed, peculiar to him. Psalm 19:11 may be noted as another instance of its use. When the watchman saw danger coming, he was to blow the trumpet (Ezekiel 33:3-6). The prophet was to speak his warnings. Thou shalt surely die; literally, dying thou shalt die. Were the words of Genesis 2:17 in the prophet’s mind? To save his life; literally, for his life, or that he may live. Shall die in his iniquity. Do the words refer only to physical death coming as the punishment of iniquity? or do they point onward further to the judgment that follows death, the loss of the inheritance of eternal life which belongs to those whose names are written in the book of life? Looking to the tremendous responsibility implied in the words, we can hardly, I think, in spite of the questions which have been raised as to the belief of the Hebrews in the immortality of the soul, hesitate to accept the latter meaning. Ezekiel anticipates the teaching of Philippians 4:3; Revelation 3:5; Revelation 13:8, if, indeed, that meaning was not already familiar to him in Exodus 32:32, 33. For “in” his iniquity we may, perhaps, read “because of.” The negligence of the watchman does not avail to procure a full pardon for the evil doer. The degree in which it may extenuate his guilt depends on conditions known to God, but not to us. In any case, as in our Lord’s words (Luke 12:47, 48), a man’s knowledge and opportunities are the measure of his responsibility. But the unfaithful watchman has his responsibility. It is as though the blood of the sinner had been shed. His guilt may be described in the same words as that of Cain (Genesis 9:5). Compare St. Paul’s words in Acts 18:6 and Acts 20:26 as echoes of Ezekiel’s thought. Ezekiel 3:18.”
America claims to be a Christian nation, many pastors and preachers do not preach against sexual immorality. There was a Black preacher who preached a false gospel and he was certified by FBI as an immoral person. The Blacks covered up the sin of their preachers. A White Christian lady told me white churches do the same. America has become a defiled land. Why they are not doing it? They lose members of the congregation by doing it. The churches who do not preach against sexual sins prosper, their silence constitutes a license. It is sad that peole who sing in the choir and participate in youth ministry commit sexual immorality. Many church members claim ignorance of what is fornication or what is adultery. If you read through this article, you no longer can claim ignorance. Fornication is sexual intercourse committed by unmarried persons. Adultery is sexual intercourse committed by married persons with persons who are not their spouses. Jesus adds that anyone who marries or has sex with a divorced person has committed adultery. Mat 5:32, “but I
say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except for the reason of sexual immorality, makes her commit adultery; and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.” In America, millions of young people commit fornication at their campuses or their homes. Parents become concerned only when the girl gets pregnant. Men who commits sexual immorality do not get pregnant. Consequently millions of abortions had been done, only God knows. A white young woman confessed that she had sex with her brother so that they do not need to pay. So campuses and homes have become brothels, the only difference is the fact they do not need to pay.
“Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. I AM the LORD your God. So do not act like the people in Egypt, where you used to live, or like the people of Canaan, where I am taking you. You must not imitate their way of life. You must obey all my regulations and be careful to obey my decrees, for I am the LORD your God. If you obey my decrees and my regulations, you will find life through them. I AM the LORD.
“You must never have sexual relations with a close relative, for I AM the LORD.
“Do not violate your father by having sexual relations with your mother. She is your mother; you must not have sexual relations with her.
“Do not have sexual relations with any of your father’s wives, for this would violate your father.
“Do not have sexual relations with your sister or half sister, whether she is your father’s daughter or your mother’s daughter, whether she was born into your household or someone else’s.
“Do not have sexual relations with your granddaughter, whether she is your son’s daughter or your daughter’s daughter, for this would violate yourself. “Do not have sexual relations with your stepsister, the daughter of any of your father’s wives, for she is your sister.
“Do not have sexual relations with your father’s sister, for she is your father’s close relative.
“Do not have sexual relations with your mother’s sister, for she is your mother’s close relative.
“Do not violate your uncle, your father’s brother, by having sexual relations with his wife, for she is your aunt.
“Do not have sexual relations with your daughter-in-law; she is your son’s wife, so you must not have sexual relations with her.
“Do not have sexual relations with your brother’s wife, for this would violate your brother.
“Do not have sexual relations with both a woman and her daughter. And do not take her granddaughter, whether her son’s daughter or her daughter’s daughter, and have sexual relations with her. They are close relatives, and this would be a wicked act.
“While your wife is living, do not marry her sister and have sexual relations with her, for they would be rivals.
“Do not have sexual relations with a woman during her period of menstrual impurity.
“Do not defile yourself by having sexual intercourse with your neighbor’s wife.
“Do not permit any of your children to be offered as a sacrifice to Molech, for you must not bring shame on the name of your God. I AM the LORD.
“Do not practice homosexuality, having sex with another man as with a woman. It is a detestable sin.
“A man must not defile himself by having sex with an animal. And a woman must not offer herself to a male animal to have intercourse with it. This is a perverse act.
“Do not defile yourselves in any of these ways, for the people I am driving out before you have defiled themselves in all these ways.
Because the entire land has become defiled, I am punishing the people who live there. I will cause the land to vomit them out.
You must obey all My decrees and regulations. You must not commit any of these detestable sins. This applies both to native-born Israelites and to the foreigners living among you.
“All these detestable activities are practiced by the people of the land where I am taking you, and this is how the land has become defiled.
So do not defile the land and give it a reason to vomit you out, as it will vomit out the people who live there now.
Whoever commits any of these detestable sins will be cut off from the community of Israel.
So obey my instructions, and do not defile yourselves by committing any of these detestable practices that were committed by the people who lived in the land before you. I AM the LORD your God.”
1. Purity in those connected through the relationship of parent and child. The first Pentad: Kinship of the first degree, Leviticus 18:6-10. The second Pentad: Kinship of the second degree, Leviticus 18:11-15. SECTION III. CHAPTER 18. MORAL UNCLEANNESS AND ITS PUNISHMENT. This being the subject of the three following chapters (chapters 18-20), they naturally form a sequence to chapters 11-17, which have dealt with ceremonial uncleanness and its purification. It is a remarkable thing that, except by implication in connection with the sin offerings and the trespass offerings and the ceremonies of the Day of Atonement, there has not yet been a single moral precept, as such, in the Book of Leviticus, and there has been very little recognition of sin as distinct from pollution. All has been ceremonial. But the ceremonial is typical of the moral, and from the consideration of ceremonial uncleanness and its remedy, we now proceed to the consideration of moral uncleanness and its penalty. It is to be noticed too that, while the ensuing laws are commanded as the positive injunction of God (verses 2, 30), which of itself is sufficient to give them their authority and force, they are still founded, like the ceremonial prohibitions, upon the feelings of repugnance implanted in the mind of man. To enter into the marriage relation with near relatives is abhorrent to a sentiment in mankind so widely spread that it may be deemed to have been originally universal, and the same abhorrence is entertained towards other foul sins of lust. Ugliness, which creates disgust by its ugliness, symbolizes sin; immorality, which inspires abhorrence by its immoral character, proves itself thereby to be sin. The section deals first with sin in the marriage relation, next with sexual impurities connected with marriage, then with other cases of immorality, and lastly with the penalties inflicted on these sins in their character of crimes. Verses 1-5 form an introduction to the Hebrew code of prohibited degrees of marriage and of forbidden sins of lust. The formal and solemn declaration, I am the Lord your God, is made three times in these five verses. This places before the people the two thoughts: 1. That the Lord is holy, and they ought to be like him in holiness; 2. That the Lord has commanded holiness, and they ought to obey him by being holy. Because the Lord is their God, and they are his people, they are, negatively, to refrain from the vicious habits and lax customs prevalent in the land of Egypt wherein they dwelt, and in the land of Canaan whither they were going, the sensuality of which is indirectly condemned by the injunctions which command purity in contrast to their doings; and, positively, they are to keep God’s statutes, and his judgments, as laid down in the following code, which if a man do, he shall live in them. The latter clause is of special importance, because it is repeated in the same connection by Ezekiel (Ezekiel 20:11, 13, 21), and in the Levitical confession in the Book of Nehemiah (Nehemiah 9:29), and is quoted by St. Paul in a controversial sense (Romans 10:5; Galatians 3:12). Its full meaning is that by obedience to God’s commands man attains to a state of existence which alone deserves to be called true life – “the life which connects him with Jehovah through his obedience” (Clark). And this involves the further truth that disobedience results in death. Accordingly, St. Paul uses the text as being the testimony of the Law with regard to itself, that salvation by it is of works in contrast with faith. (Cf. Luke 10:28.) We have no evidence to tell us what were the doings of the land of Canaan in respect to the marriage relation, but this chapter is enough to show that the utmost laxity prevailed in it, and we may be sure that their religious rites, like those of Midian (Numbers 25), were penetrated with the spirit of licentiousness. With regard to the doings of the land of Egypt, we have fuller information. We know that among the Egyptians marriage with sisters and half-sisters was not only permissible, but that its propriety was justified by their religious beliefs, and practiced in the royal family (Died. Sic., 1:27; Die. Cass., 42). Other abominations condemned in this chapter (verse 23) also, as we know, existed there (Herod., 2:46), and if queens could be what in later times Cleopatra was, we may imagine the general dissoluteness of the people. Among Persians, Medes, Indians, Ethiopians and Assyrians, marriage with mothers and daughters was allowed, and from the time of Cambyses, marriage with a sister was regarded as lawful (Herod., 3:31). The Athenians and Spartans permitted marriage with half-sisters. All these concessions to lust, and ether unclean acts with which the heathen world was full (verse 22; Romans 1:27), were fallings away from the law of purity implanted in the heart of man and now renewed for the Hebrew people. Leviticus 18:1.”
It must be said that all God’s “decrees and regulations” written above not only apply to the Jews, the people of Israel, they also apply to the New Testment Christians, ALL BELIEVERS.
Mat 15:19, “For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murders, acts of adultery, other immoral sexual acts, thefts, false testimonies,
For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts,…. Of God, of Christ, of the Spirit, of fellow creatures, and of all sorts of wickedness. The thoughts of sin are evil, are to be hated, forsaken, and for which men are accountable to God. All wicked imaginations, carnal reasonings, lustful desires, and malicious contrivances, are here included; which take their rise from, and are devised, and forged, in the corrupt heart of man.
Murders; inveterate hatred of men’s persons, malice prepense, schemes to take away life, all angry and wrathful words, and actual effusion of man’s blood.
Adulteries; uncleanness committed between married persons, both in thought, and deed:
fornications; unlawful copulations of persons in a single state:
thefts; taking away from others by force or fraud, what is their right and property:
false witness: swearing falsely, or exhibiting a false testimony to the hurt of his neighbour, either his name, person, or estate:
blasphemies; evil speakings of God or men. To which Mark adds “covetousness”; a greedy and insatiable desire after the things of the world, or the neighbour’s goods: “wickedness”; doing hurt and mischief to fellow creatures: “deceit”; in words and actions, in trade and conversation: “lasciviousness”; all manner of uncleanness, and unnatural lusts: “an evil eye”; of envy and covetousness: the vitiosity, or corruption of nature, is, by the Jews (h), called “the evil eye”: “pride”; in heart and life, in dress and gesture; and “foolishness”; expressed in talk and conduct.”
1Co 5:9-11, “I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators: Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous,
or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world. But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.”
“But now.” In this Epistle. This shows that he had written a former letter.
I have written to you. – Above. I have designed to give this injunction that you are to be entirely separated from one who is a professor of religion and who is guilty of these things.
Not to keep company – To be wholly separated and withdrawn from such a person. Not to associate with him in any manner.
If any man that is called a brother – Any professing Christian; any member of the church.
Or an idolater – This must mean those persons who, while they professed Christianity, still attended the idol feasts, and worshipped there. Perhaps a few such may have been found who had adopted the Christian profession hypocritically.
Or a railer – A reproachful man; a man of coarse, harsh, and bitter words; a man whose characteristic it was to abuse others; to vilify their character, and wound their feelings. It is needless to say how much this is contrary to the spirit of Christianity, and to the example of the Master, “who when he was reviled, reviled not again.”
Or a drunkard – Perhaps there might have been some then in the church, as there are now, who were addicted to this vice. It has been the source of incalculable evils to the church; and the apostle, therefore, solemnly enjoins on Christians to have no fellowship with a man who is intemperate.
With such an one no not to eat – To have no contact or fellowship with him of any kind; not to do anything that would seem to acknowledge him as a brother; with such an one not even to eat at the same table. A similar course is enjoined by John; 2 John 1:10-11. This refers to the contact of common life, and not particularly to the communion. The true Christian was wholly to disown such a person, and not to do anything that would seem to imply that he regarded him as a Christian brother. It will be seen here that the rule was much more strict in regard to one who professed to be a Christian than to those who were known and acknowledged pagans. The reasons may have been:
(1) The necessity of keeping the church pure, and of not doing anything that would seem to imply that Christians were the patrons and friends of the intemperate and the wicked.
(2) in respect to the pagan, there could be no danger of its being supposed that Christians regarded them as brethren, or showed to them any more than the ordinary civilities of life; but in regard to those who professed to be Christians, but who were drunkards, or licentious, if a man was on terms of intimacy with them, it would seem as if he acknowledged them as brethren and recognized them as Christians.
(3) this entire separation and withdrawing from all communion was necessary in these times to save the church from scandal, and from the injurious reports which were circulated. The pagan accused Christians of all manner of crime and abominations. These reports were greatly injurious to the church. But it was evident that currency and plausibility would be given to them if it was known that Christians were on terms of intimacy and good fellowship with pagans and intemperate persons. Hence, it became necessary to withdraw wholly from them to withhold even the ordinary courtesies of life; and to draw a line of total and entire separation. Whether this rule in its utmost strictness is demanded now, since the nature of Christianity is known, and since religion cannot be in “so much” danger from such reports, may be made a question. I am inclined to the opinion that the ordinary civilities of life may be shown to such persons; though certainly nothing that would seem to recognize them as Christians. But as neighbors and relatives; as those who may be in distress and want, we are assuredly not forbidden to show toward them the offices of kindness and compassion. Whitby and some others, however, understand this of the communion of the Lord’s Supper and of that only.”
2Pe 2:14, “having eyes full of adultery that never cease from sin, enticing unstable souls, having hearts trained in greed, accursed children.”
Having eyes full of adultery – Margin, as in the Greek, “an adulteress;” that is, gazing with desire after such persons. The word “full” is designed to denote that the corrupt passion referred to had wholly seized and occupied their minds. The eye was, as it were, full of this passion; it saw nothing else but some occasion for its indulgence; it expressed nothing else but the desire. The reference here is to the sacred festival mentioned in the previous verse; and the meaning is, that they celebrated that festival with licentious feelings, giving free indulgence to their corrupt desires by gazing on the females who were assembled with them. In the passion here referred to, the “eye” is usually the first offender, the inlet to corrupt desires, and the medium by which they are expressed. Compare the notes at Matthew 5:28. The wanton glance is a principal occasion of exciting the sin; and there is much often in dress, and mien, and gesture, to charm the eye and to deepen the debasing passion.
And that cannot cease from sin – They cannot look on the females who may be present without sinning. Compare Matthew 5:28. There are many men in whom the presence of the most virtuous woman only excites impure and corrupt desires. The expression here does not mean that they have no natural ability to cease from sin, or that they are impelled to it by any physical necessity, but only that they are so corrupt and unprincipled that they certainly will sin always.
Beguiling unstable souls – Those who are not strong in Christian principle, or who are naturally fluctuating and irresolute. The word rendered beguiling means to bait, to entrap, and would be applicable to the methods practiced in hunting. Here it means that it was one of their arts to place specious allurements before those who were known not to have settled principles or firmness, in order to allure them to sin. Compare 2 Timothy 3:6.
An heart they have exercised with covetous practices – Skilled in the arts which covetous men adopt in order to cheat others out of their property. A leading purpose which influenced these men was to obtain money. One of the most certain ways for dishonest men to do this is to make use of the religious principle; to corrupt and control the conscience; to make others believe that they are eminently holy, or that they are the special favorites of heaven; and when they can do this, they have the purses of others at command. For the religious principle is the most powerful of all principles; and he who can control that, can control all that a man possesses. The idea here is that these persons had made this their study, and had learned the ways in which men could be induced to part with their money under religious pretences. We should always be on our guard when professedly religious teachers propose to have much to do with money matters. While we should always be ready to aid every good cause, yet we should remember that unprincipled and indolent men often assume the mask of religion that they may practice their arts on the credulity of others, and that their real aim is to obtain their property, not to save their souls.
Cursed children – This is a Hebraism, meaning literally, “children of the curse,” that is, persons devoted to the curse, or who will certainly be destroyed.”
To my bitter experience, I have found people in banking and finance industires are evidently “having hearts trained in greed.” The Bible clearly says that greedy people will be cast into Hell.
Why should I write about such an unpopular subject? In fact I have one motive,Jas 5:19-20, “My brothers and sisters, if anyone among you strays from the truth and someone turns him back,let him know that the one who has turned a sinner from the error of his way will save his soul from death and cover a multitude of sins.” American way of life — the unmarried have sexual intercouse like the married — is straying from the truth, I would be so happy if my writing will turn him or her back. It will be worth it.
James 5:19-20. Brethren — As if he had said, I have now warned you of those things to which you are most liable. And in all these respects watch, not only over yourselves, but every one over his brother also. Labour, in particular, to recover those that are fallen. For if any of you do err from the truth — From the right way in which he ought to walk, if he be seduced by any means from the doctrine and practice of the gospel; andone — Any one; convert him — Be a means of bringing him back into that way from which he had wandered; let him know — Who has been enabled to effect so good a work; that he who converteth a sinner from the error of his way — From the false doctrine and bad practice to which he had turned aside, shall produce a much happier effect than any miraculous cure of the body; for he shall save a precious immortal soul from spiritual and eternal death, and shall hide a multitude of sins — Namely, the sins of the persons thus converted, which shall no more, how many soever they are, be remembered to his condemnation. “The covering of sin is a phrase which often occurs in the Old Testament, and always signifies the pardoning of sin. Nor has it any other meaning here. For surely it cannot be the apostle’s intention to tell us, that the turning of a sinner from the error of his way will conceal from the eye of God’s justice a multitude of sins committed by the person who does this charitable office, if he continueth in them. Such a person needs himself to be turned from the error of his way, in order that his own soul may be saved from death. St. Peter has a similar expression, (1 Peter 4:8,) love covereth a multitude of sins; not, however, in the person who is possessed of love, but in the person who is the object of his love.” — Macknight.
1Co 6:9-10, “Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, norhomosexuals,
nor thieves, nor the greedy, northose habitually drunk, nor verbal abusers,
1 Corinthians 6:9-11. Know ye not — With all your boasted knowledge; that the unrighteous — That is, not only the unjust, but those destitute of true righteousness and holiness, comprehending the various classes of sinners afterward mentioned, the term unrighteous here including them all: shall not inherit the kingdom of God — Namely, the kingdom of eternal glory. And can you contentedly sacrifice this great and glorious hope which the gospel gives you, for the sake of those pleasures of sin which are but for a short season? Be not deceived — By a vain imagination that the Christian name and privileges will save you, while you continue in the practice of your vices. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, &c. — Idolatry is here placed between fornication and adultery, because these things generally accompanied it. Indeed, among the heathen idolatry was not only a great crime in itself, but was the parent of many other crimes. For the heathen were encouraged in the commission of fornication, adultery, sodomy, drunkenness, theft, &c., by the example of their gods. Nor effeminate — Who live in an easy, indolent way, taking up no cross, enduring no hardship. But how is this, that these good-natured, harmless people are ranked with idolaters and sodomites, those infamous degraders of human nature? We may learn hence, that we are never secure from the greatest sins, till we guard against those which are thought to be the least; nor indeed till we think no sin is little, since every one is a step toward hell. And such were some of you — Namely, in some kind or other; but ye are washed — Delivered from the guilt and power of those gross abominations. Ye are sanctified — Renewed in the spirit of your minds, dedicated to, and employed in the service of God; conformed, at least in a measure, to his image, and possessed of his divine nature, and this not before, but in consequence of your being justified. Or, Ye are regenerated and purified, as well as discharged, from the condemnation to which ye were justly obnoxious. See the nature of justification explained in the notes on Romans 3:21-22; and its fruits, on Romans 5:1-5. In the name of the Lord Jesus — Through his merits, or his sacrifice and intercession; and by the Spirit of our God — Creating you anew, and inspiring you with all those blessed graces which are the genuine fruits of his divine influences, Galatians 5:22-23. You ought therefore, as if he had said, to maintain the most grateful sense of these important blessings which God hath conferred upon you, to stand at the utmost distance from sin, and to be tender of the peace and honour of a society which God hath founded by his extraordinary interposition, and into which he hath been pleased in so wonderful a manner to bring even you, who were in a most infamous and deplorable state.”
Gal 5:19-21, “Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: sexual immorality, impurity, indecent behavior, idolatry, witchcraft, hostilities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice
Galatians 5:19-21. Now the works of the flesh — By which that inward corrupt principle is discovered; are manifest — Are plain and undeniable. He says works, in the plural, because those of the flesh are distinct from, and often inconsistent with each other. But the fruit of the Spirit is mentioned in the singular, (Galatians 5:22,) the graces thereof being all consistent, and connected together. Which are these — He enumerates those works of the flesh to which the Galatians were most inclined, and those parts of the fruit of the Spirit of which they stood in the greatest need; adultery — A crime to be considered in the first rank of enormities, as being the most prejudicial to society, destroying conjugal happiness, introducing confusion and ruin into families, alienating the affection of parents from their children, causing them to neglect their education; fornication — Which, how light soever heathen may make it, is in the sight of God a very grievous offence; uncleanness — Of every kind and degree; lasciviousness — All immodesty, as the indulging of wanton thoughts, and reading lascivious books. The Greek word means any thing, inward or outward, that is contrary to chastity; idolatry — The worshipping of idols; this sin is justly reckoned among the works of the flesh, because the worship paid to many of the gods consisted in the most impure fleshly gratifications; witchcraft — Or sorcery, as Macknight renders φαρμακεια, observing, that the expression “being placed immediately after idolatry, means those arts of incantation and charming, and all the pretended communications with invisible and malignant powers, whereby the heathen priests promoted the reverence and worship of their idol gods, and enriched themselves. In this sense the word is used concerning Babylon, (Revelation 18:23,) εν τη φαρμακεια σου, By thy sorcery were all nations deceived; that is, by a variety of wicked arts and cheats, the nations were deluded to support Babylon in her idolatries and corruptions. Hatred — Or enmities, as εχθραι signifies; variance — Ερεις, strifes; emulations — Transports of ill-placed and ill-proportioned zeal; wrath — Θυμοι, resentments; εριθειαι, contentions, as the word appears here to signify; seditions — Or divisions, in domestic or civil matters; heresies — Parties formed in religious communities; who, instead of maintaining true candor and benevolence, renounce and condemn each other. Envyings — Frequently manifesting themselves against the prosperity and success of others; murders — Which are often the effect of such evil dispositions and practices as those above mentioned; and, to complete the catalogue, all kinds of irregular self-indulgence, and particularly drunkenness — Which renders a man worse than a beast; and those disorderly and gluttonous revellings — Or luxurious entertainments, by which the rational powers are, in a great measure, extinguished, or, at least, rendered incapable of performing their offices in a proper manner. Some of the works here mentioned are wrought principally, if not entirely, in the mind, and yet they are called works of the flesh. Hence it is clear that the apostle does not, by the flesh, mean the body, or sensual appetites and inclinations only, but the corruption of human nature, as it spreads through all the powers of the soul, as well as the members of the body; of which I tell you before — Before the event; I forewarn you; as I have told you also in time past — When I was present with you; that they who do such things — Who are guilty of such evil practices; shall not inherit the kingdom of God — Whatever zeal they may pretend for the externals of religion, in any of the forms of it. Awful declaration!.”
Someone was so wrong, “Finally, we can safely assume that there will be sex in eternity because God created sex in Eden before humanity’s fall into a life of constant sin terminated by death. Thus, in Eden Restored we can rest assured that God will not remove our sexual nature; rather, He will redeem it. In the new heaven and new earth, sex will no longer be for the purpose of procreation. Nor will it involve sexual intercourse, for “at the resurrection people will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven” (Matthew 22:30). In heaven we will experience a kind of spiritual intercourse that eludes our understanding on earth. In paradise, romance subverted will become romance sublime. It will be agape-driven rather than animal-driven. For in Eden Restored, we will fly full and free, unfettered by the stain of selfishness and sin.”
Watch out the false prophets and false preachers and false teachers as if the Word of God needs their approval. They have private interpretation of the Word of God to suit their private passions.
Luk 20:34-36, “Jesus said to them, “The sons of this age marry and the women are given in marriage, but those who are considered worthy to attain to that age and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry nor are given in marriage; for they cannot even die anymore, for they are like angels, and are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection.”
Verses 34-36. – And Jesus answering said unto them, The children of this world marry, and are given in marriage: but they which shall be accounted worthy to obtain that world, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry, nor are given in marriage: neither can they die any more. How different are the few rare pictures which our Master draws of the heaven-life to those painted by the great founders and teachers of other world-wide religions! In his world beyond the grave, while he tells us of a continuing existence, of varied and ever-increasing activity, in contradistinction to the Nirvana of Buddha, in these pictures of Jesus the sensual paradise of Mohammed, for instance, finds no place. Marriage is, according to our Lord’s teaching, but a temporary expedient to preserve the human race, to which death would soon put an end. But in the world to come there will be no death and no marriage. We may assume from his words here that the difference between the sexes will have ceased to exist. They are equal unto the angels. Equal with the angels in being immortal; no death; no marriage. Jesus in this place asserts that angels have a body, but are exempt from any difference of sex. The angels are here introduced because our Lord was speaking with Sadducees, who (Acts 23:8) denied the existence of these glorious beings. He wished to set the seal of his teaching on the deeply interesting question of the existence of angels. Luke 20:34.”
It is an exercise of futility if you are willing to hear how some so-called theologians pontificate their theories about sex in eternity. Remember, it is not Augustine or anybody else that matters. Jesus Christ has the ultimate authority because He is the Word of God. I am so indignant and infuriated that there are people who would follow false prophets, false preachers, and false teachers in opposition to the clear teaching of the Holy Bible.
Jesus says,Mar 10:6, “But from the beginning of creation,
God CREATED THEM MALE AND FEMALE.”
Christians do no believe in Black Liberation movements. Christians do not accept the concept or affirm the lifestyles of LGBTQ. It is the Word of God that matters ultimately in any doctrine or the Christian faith.
Rev 12:10, “Then I heard a loud voice in Heaven, saying, “Now the salvation, and the power, and the Kingdom of our God and the authority of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers and sisters has been thrown down, the one who accuses them before our God day and night.”
And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven – The great enemy was expelled; the cause of God and truth was triumphant; and the conquering hosts united in celebrating the victory. This representation of a song, consequent on victory, is in accordance with the usual representations in the Bible. See the song of Moses at the Red Sea, Exodus 15; the song of Deborah, Judges 5; the song of David when the Lord had delivered him out of the hand of all his enemies, 2 Samuel 22; and Isaiah 12:25. On no occasion could such a song be more appropriate than on the complete routing and discomfiture of Satan and his rebellious hosts. Viewed in reference to the time here symbolized, this would relate to the certain triumph of the church and of truth on the earth; in reference to the language, there is an allusion to the joy and triumph of the heavenly hosts when Satan and his apostate legions were expelled.
Now is come salvation – That is, complete deliverance from the power of Satan.
And strength – That is, now is the mighty power of God manifested in casting down and subduing the great enemy of the church.
And the kingdom of our God – The reign of our God. See the notes on Matthew 3:2. That is now established among people, and God will henceforward rule. This refers to the certain ultimate triumph of his cause in the world.
And the power of his Christ – His anointed; that is, the kingdom of Christ as the Messiah, or as anointed and set apart to rule over the world. See the notes on Matthew 1:1.
For the accuser of our brethren is cast down – The phrase “our brethren” shows by whom this song is celebrated. It is sung in heaven; but it is by those who belonged to the redeemed church, and whose brethren were still suffering persecution and trial on the earth. It shows the tenderness of the tie which unites all the redeemed as brethren, whether on earth or in heaven; and it shows the interest which they “who have passed the flood” have in the trials, the sorrows, and the triumphs of those who are still upon the earth. We have here another appellation given to the great enemy – “accuser of the brethren.” The word used here – κατήγορος katēgoros, in later editions of the New Testament κατήγωρ katēgōr – means properly “an accuser,” one who blames another, or charges another with crime. The word occurs in John 8:10; Acts 23:30, Acts 23:35; Acts 24:8; Acts 25:16, Acts 25:18; Revelation 12:10, in all which places it is rendered “accuser” or “accusers,” though only in the latter place applied to Satan. The verb frequently occurs, Matthew 12:10; Matthew 27:12; Mark 3:2; Mark 15:3, et al.
The description of Satan as an accuser accords with the opinion of the ancient Hebrews in regard to his character. Thus he is represented in Job 1:9-11; Job 2:4-5; Zechariah 3:1-2; 1 Chronicles 21:1. The phrase “of the brethren” refers to Christians, or to the people of God; and the meaning here is, that one of the characteristics of Satan – a characteristic so well known as to make it proper to designate him by it – is that he is an accuser of the righteous; that he is employed in bringing against them charges affecting their character and destroying their influence. The propriety of this appellation cannot be doubted. It is, as it has always been, one of the characteristics of Satan – one of the means by which he keeps up his influence in the world – to bring accusations against the people of God. Thus, under his suggestions, and by his agents, they are charged with hypocrisy; with insincerity; with being influenced by bad motives; with pursuing sinister designs under the cloak of religion; with secret vices and crimes. Thus it was that the martyrs were accused; thus it is that unfounded accusations are often brought against ministers of the gospel, palsying their power and diminishing their influence, or that when a professed Christian falls the church is made to suffer by an effort to cast suspicion on all who bear the Christian name. Perhaps the most skillful thing that Satan does, and the thing by which he most contributes to diminish the influence of the church, is in thus causing “accusations” to be brought against the people of God.
Is cast down – The period here referred to was, doubtless, the time when the church was about to be established and to flourish in the world, and when accusations would be brought against Christians by various classes of calumniators and informers. It is well known that in the early ages of Christianity crimes of the most horrid nature were charged on Christians, and that it was by these slanders that the effort was made to prevent the extension of the Christian church.
Which accused them before our God – See the notes on Job 1:9-10. The meaning is, that he accused them, as it were, in the very presence of God.
Day and night – He never ceased bringing these accusations, and sought by the perseverance and constancy with which they were urged to convince the world that there was no sincerity in the church and no reality in religion.”
Num 5:16-28. “Then the priest shall bring her forward and have her stand before the LORD, and the priest shall take holy water in an earthenware container; and he shall take some of the dust that is on the floor of the tabernacle and put it in the water. ‘The priest shall then have the woman stand before the LORD and let down the hair of the woman’s head, and place the grain offering of reminder [fn]in her hands, that is, the grain offering of jealousy; and in the hand of the priest is to be the water of bitterness that brings a curse. ‘And the priest shall have her take an oath and shall say to the woman, “If no man has had sexual relations with you and if you have not gone astray into uncleanness, as you are under the authority of your husband, be immune to this water of bitterness that brings a curse; if, however, you have gone astray, though
under the authority of your husband, and if you have defiled yourself and a man other than your husband has had sexual intercourse with you”
(then the priest shall have the woman swear with the oath of the curse, and the priest shall say to the woman), “may the LORD make you a curse and an oath among your people by the LORD’S making your thigh shriveled and your belly swollen; and this water that brings a curse shall go into your stomach, to make your belly swell up and your thigh shrivel.” And the woman shall say, “Amen, Amen.” ‘The priest shall then write these curses on a scroll, and he shall wash them off into the water of bitterness.‘Then he shall make the woman drink the water of bitterness that brings a curse, so that the water which brings a curse will go into her and cause bitterness. ‘And the priest shall take the grain offering of jealousy from the woman’s hand, and he shall wave the grain offering before the LORD and bring it to the altar; and the priest shall take a handful of the grain offering as its reminder offering and offer it up in smoke on the altar, and afterward he shall make the woman drink the water. ‘When he has made her drink the water, then it will come about, if she has defiled herself and has been unfaithful to her husband, that the water which brings a curse will go into her [fn]and cause bitterness, and her belly will swell up and her thigh will [fn]shrivel, and the woman will become a curse among her people. ‘But if the woman has not defiled herself and is clean, she will be immune and conceive children.”
The priest was to bring her near to the altar at which he stood, and place her before Jehovah, who had declared Himself to be present at the altar, and then to take holy water, probably water out of the basin before the sanctuary, which served for holy purposes (Exodus 30:18), in an earthen vessel, and put dust in it from the floor of the dwelling. He was then to loosen the hair of the woman who was standing before Jehovah, and place the jealousy-offering in her hands, and holding the water in his own hand, to pronounce a solemn oath of purification before her, which she had to appropriate to herself by a confirmatory Amen, Amen. The water, which the priest had prepared for the woman to drink, was taken from the sanctuary, and the dust to be put into it from the floor of the dwelling, to impregnate this drink with the power of the Holy Spirit that dwelt in the sanctuary. The dust was strewed upon the water, not to indicate that man was formed from dust and must return to dust again, but as an allusion to the fact, that dust was eaten by the serpent (Genesis 3:14) as the curse of sin, and therefore as the symbol of a state deserving a curse, a state of the deepest humiliation and disgrace (Micah 7:17; Isaiah 49:23; Psalm 72:9). On the very same ground, an earthen vessel was chosen; that is to say, one quite worthless in comparison with the copper one. The loosening of the hair of the head (see Leviticus 13:45), in other cases a sign of mourning, is to be regarded here as a removal or loosening of the female head-dress, and a symbol of the loss of the proper ornament of female morality and conjugal fidelity. During the administration of the oath, the offering was placed in her hands, that she might bring the fruit of her own conduct before God, and give it up to His holy judgment. The priest, as the representative of God, held the vessel in his hand, with the water in it, which was called the “water of bitterness, the curse-bringing,” inasmuch as, if the crime imputed to her was well-founded, it would bring upon the woman bitter suffering as the curse of God.”
5:11-31 This law would make the women of Israel watch against giving cause for suspicion. On the other hand, it would hinder the cruel treatment such suspicions might occasion. It would also hinder the guilty from escaping, and the innocent from coming under just suspicion. When no proof could be brought, the wife was called on to make this solemn appeal to a heart-searching God. No woman, if she were guilty, could say Amen to the adjuration, and drink the water after it, unless she disbelieved the truth of God, or defied his justice. The water is called the bitter water, because it caused the curse. Thus sin is called an evil and a bitter thing. Let all that meddle with forbidden pleasures, know that they will be bitterness in the latter end. From the whole learn, 1. Secret sins are known to God, and sometimes are strangely brought to light in this life; and that there is a day coming when God will, by Christ, judge the secrets of men according to the gospel, Ro 2:16. 2 In particular, Whoremongers and adulterers God will surely judge. Though we have not now the waters of jealousy, yet we have God’s word, which ought to be as great a terror. Sensual lusts will end in bitterness. 3. God will manifest the innocency of the innocent. The same providence is for good to some, and for hurt to others. And it will answer the purposes which God intends.”
As far as I know, there has never been a precedent cited above and practiced in the New Testament.
Act 15:29, “that you abstain from things sacrificed to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from acts of sexual immorality; if youkeep
yourselves free from such things, you will do well. Farewell.”
(29) From meats offered to idols.—The specific term takes the place of the more general word which St. James had used. The change, if the two words were not used, as is possible, as altogether equivalent, may be thought of as favouring the Gentiles by narrowing the prohibition to a single point.
Fare ye well.—The closing salutation was, like the opening, a Greek and not a Hebrew one. It meets us again in Acts 23:30. Both were naturally used in a letter addressed to Greeks, and intended to be read by them and by Hellenistic Jews. It does not occur, however, in any of the Epistles of the New Testament.
It is natural to ask, at the close of the great encyclical letter, in what relation it really stood to the life of the Apostolic Church. As a concordat between the contending parties it was framed, as has been said, with a sagacity that may well be looked on as inspired. But obviously it was not, and from the nature of the case could not be, more than that. The time had not come for proclaiming to the Church of Jerusalem the full width of St. Paul’s teaching (Galatians 2:2), and accordingly, though something may be read between the lines, the decree seems to treat the precepts of Noah as perpetually binding, places moral and positive obligations on the same footing, and leaves the ground on which they are “necessary” an open question. St. Paul, who had accepted it as a satisfactory settlement of the matter in debate, never refers to it, even when he is discussing the chief point with which the decree dealt (1 Corinthians 8-10). In his narrative of what passed on this occasion (Galatians 2:1-10) there is no mention of it. The private conference with the three great “pillars” of the Church was for him more than the decree of the synod, and he felt himself able to discuss the whole question again on different grounds, and with a more distinct reference to spiritual and ethical principles. It was wrong to eat things sacrificed to idols, not because the act of so eating in itself brought defilement, but because it might involve a participation in the sin of idolatry in the consciousness of the eater, or wound the conscience of the weaker brother who saw him eat. It was natural that those who lacked his largeness of view should become slaves to the letter of the rules long after the grounds on which they rested had ceased to exist, and so we find that the prohibition of blood was re-enforced in the so-called Apostolic Canons (c. 62), and in the fourth century by the Council of Gangra (c. 2), and in the seventh by that at Constantinople, known as in Trullo (c. 67), and continues to be the binding rule of the Greek Church still. In Africa and in Europe, however, truer views prevailed (August, cont. Faust. xxxii. 13), and not even the most devout believer in the inspiration of the Apostles, or in the authority of primitive antiquity. would venture to urge that the two last precepts of the four here enjoined were in any degree binding. Hooker (Eccl. Pol. iv., xi., § 5) rightly refers to this decree as a crucial instance proving that commands might be divine and yet given only for a season, binding as long as the conditions to which they applied continued, but no longer. It would almost seem, indeed, as if St. Paul felt that the terms of the decree had the effect of placing the sin of impurity on the same level with that of eating things sacrificed to idols, and things strangled, and blood, and so tended to keep men from seeing it in its true hatefulness. Those who claimed a right, which in the abstract St. Paul could not deny, to eat of things strangled or offered to idols, thought themselves free to fall back into the old license of the heathen world, and he needed far stronger motives than the canons of the council to restrain them (1Corinthians 5:9-10; 1Corinthians 6:15-20, and found those motives in the truths that they had been bought with a price, that the will of God was their sanctification, and that their bodies were His temple.”
1Th 4:3, “For this is the will of God, your sanctification; that is, that you abstain from sexual immorality.”
Abstain in Greek isapechōwhich means to hold oneself from; to keep oneself from; to hold back, keep off, prevent (Strong’s Concordance); to refrain deliberately; to hold back; — which occurs 19 times in the New Testament.
2. For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, &c.] The connection will be clearer if we render thus: For this is God’s will—it is your sanctification—that you abstain from fornication, &c. It was not some counsel or wish of his own that he pressed on the Thessalonians under the authority of Christ; it was nothing less than God’s holy will: the primary ground of this charge. At the same time it was their sanctification. God’s will and their consecration to Him are the double reason for their leading a chaste life; and these two reasons are one, the latter springing out of the former. God had chosen them to be His own (comp. ch. 1 Thessalonians 1:4). And He willed that their sanctification should be realised and carried into effect in the important particular about to be stated. This will of God was proclaimed in His “call,” by which the Thessalonians had been summoned to a pure and holy life (ch. 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24; comp. 1 Thessalonians 2:12). In all endeavours after purity it is our best support to know that God wishes and means ms to be holy; that His almighty help is at the back of our weak resolves, Who both “puts into our minds good desires” and “brings the same to good effect.” “Sanctification” is the act or process of making holy: then, in the second instance, it comes to denote the result of this process, the state of one who is made holy,—as in Romans 6:22, “You have your fruit unto sanctification, and the end eternal life;” similarly in Hebrews 12:14, “Follow after sanctification.” It is synonymous with consecration, i.e. devotion to God,—but to God as the Holy One. Holy is the single word which by itself denotes the Divine character, as it is revealed to us in its moral transcendence, in the awfulness and glory of its absolute perfection, raised infinitely above all that is earthly and sinful (see 1 Samuel 2:2, Psalms 99, Psalm 111:9, Isaiah 57:15, &c). Now it is the character of God—“thy Maker … and thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel”—that constitutes His right to the consecration of those to whom He is revealed. Our “sanctification” is the acknowledgement of God’s claim upon us as the Holy One Who made us. This involves our assimilation to His nature. In Him, first the character, then the claim: in us, first the claim admitted, then the character impressed. In short, Sanctification is fulfilment of the supreme command, “Be ye holy, for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:15-16; Leviticus 11:44; Leviticus 19:2; Leviticus 20:7).—See, further, notes on 1 Thessalonians 4:7, and ch. 1 Thessalonians 5:23; also on ch. 1 Thessalonians 2:10, for the difference between the two Greek words for holy used in this Ep. St Paul makes chastity a part of holiness. He finds a new motive and powerful safeguard for virtue in the fact of the redemption of the body. Our physical frame belongs to God; it is a sharer in Christ’s resurrection, and in the new life received through Him. “Know you not,” he asks, “that your bodies are limbs of Christ,—a temple of the Holy Ghost, which you have from God? Therefore glorify God in your body” (1 Corinthians 6:15-20). This is bodily sanctification. And faith in Christ effectually subdues impure and sensual passion. The foul and heathenish vice of fornication was so prevalent in Greek cities and so little condemned by public opinion—it was even fostered by some forms of pagan religion—that abstinence from it on the part of the Thessalonians was a sign of devotion to a Holy God. But their purity was imperilled from the condition of society around them, and in many cases from former unchaste habits. The temptations to licentiousness assailing the first generation of Christians were fearfully strong; and all the Epistles contain urgent warnings upon this subject. The sense of purity had to be re-created in men gathered out of the midst of pagan corruption.”
The purpose of abstaing from sexual immorality is sanctification which is the will of God for every believer.
2Th 2:13, “But we should always give thanks to God for you, brothers and sisters beloved by the Lord, because God has chosen you from the beginning for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and faith in the truth.”
13. But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you] Comp. ch. 2 Thessalonians 1:3, and notes. The strain of the opening thanksgiving of the two Epistles is here blended. For while this clause repeats the first words of 2Th, the sentence that follows echoes 1 Thessalonians 1:4. Here the subject, we, bears emphasis: “we, with this sad prospect of apostasy and delusion in view.” Those who see deeply into the evil of the world, its immense power and untold possibilities, turn with the greater satisfaction to that which “speaks better things.” brethren beloved by the Lord (R.V.) is parallel to “beloved by God” (1 Thessalonians 1:4 : see note). “The Lord” is surely Christ, as distinguished from “God” in the adjoining clauses. The Church assailed by persecution, and appalled by the thought of Antichrist, finds in the love of Christ her refuge (comp. Romans 8:35; Romans 8:39). To the same Divine Protector the Apostle commits his “brethren,” so dear to him (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17; ch. 2 Thessalonians 3:3; 2 Thessalonians 3:5). He recalls in this expression the blessing pronounced on Benjamin, his own tribe, in Deuteronomy 33:12 : “The beloved of the Lord shall dwell in safety by Him; He covereth him all the day long, and he dwelleth between His shoulders.” The two phrases correspond precisely in the Greek. because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation] Better, in that God chose you; see note on ch. 2 Thessalonians 1:3. These words are partly borrowed from Deuteronomy 7:6-7; Deuteronomy 10:15; Deuteronomy 26:18 : “Thou art a holy people unto the Lord thy God. He hath chosen you to be a peculiar people unto Himself … He set His love upon yon;” &c. The Apostle’s thanksgivings in the First Epistle centred in the fact of the “election” of the Thessalonian believers in Christ. (See note on election, 1 Thessalonians 1:4; and context.) To this his grateful thoughts now revert. God deals with them far otherwise than He will do with those to whom He “sends effectual delusion … that they may be judged” (2 Thessalonians 2:11-12): He “chose you for salvation … not for wrath” (1 Thessalonians 5:9). How safe and high above fear are “God’s elect” (Romans 8:33-39)! “From the beginning” points to the time when the Gospel first visited the Thessalonians; so the “election” of 1 Thessalonians 1:4 is associated with the “coming of our gospel to you” (1 Thessalonians 1:5; 1 Thessalonians 1:9). Then it was that, practically and in human view, God chose this people—i.e. selected them for His own out of the world in which they moved. In later Epistles this “beginning” is traced back, on its Divine side, to “the foundation of the world” (Ephesians 1:4, &c.), and shown to be a part of that which was absolutely “from the beginning” (comp. 1 John 1:1). There is an absolute beginning of salvation, hidden in the nature and eternal counsels of God; this is its relative, historical and manifest beginning (comp. Php 4:15; Acts 15:7). And this choice is “unto salvation,” in the utmost sense of the word, extended in 2 Thessalonians 2:14 to “the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ;” comp. 1 Thessalonians 2:12; 1 Thessalonians 3:13; 1 Thessalonians 5:9 (see note). This salvation rests on God’s election; at the same time it has its human conditions: salvation (experienced) in sanctification of spirit and faith in the truth. God chooses none to salvation apart from these qualifications; the end implies the way. It is believing and sanctified men who wear “for a helmet the hope of salvation” (1 Thessalonians 5:8). Comp. 1 Peter 1:2 : “Elect … in sanctification of spirit” (or the Spirit). “Chosen unto salvation” stands in contrast with “son of perdition” and “the perishing” (2 Thessalonians 2:3; 2 Thessalonians 2:10); “sanctification of spirit” and “belief in truth” on the part of God’s elect, with the “pleasure in unrighteousness” and “belief in the lie” that mark the dupes of Antichrist. These are the moral preconditions of final salvation and perdition respectively. St Paul writes sanctification of spirit, without the definite article. No doubt “spirit” may grammatically denote “the (Holy) Spirit,” but the Apostle can scarcely have so intended here. For (1) the intimate connection of this phrase with “belief of truth” inclines us to read the two (Greek) genitives alike—“truth” being the object of “faith,” and “spirit” of “sanctification.” (2) “Your spirit” is the primary object of the sanctification prayed for in 1 Thessalonians 5:23. That memorable prayer is probably in the mind both of writer and readers. (3) “Sanctification of spirit,” understood as an inward state of the Thessalonians, is a condition of “salvation” the opposite of the disposition described in 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12 as marking “those who perish” at the coming of Antichrist. For this reason sanctification is put first; but it depends in turn upon faith,—“belief in the truth.” See Acts 26:18; Ephesians 1:13. The normal order therefore is that of 1 Timothy 2:15, “in faith and sanctification.”—For sanctification, see note to 1 Thessalonians 4:3. Lit., belief of truth. The Apostle is not stating what the truth is that saves, but that it is truth which saves, and faith in it as truth. A truth-accepting faith is the root of salvation, while the disposition to “believe the lie” is the root of perdition (2 Thessalonians 2:9-12). “Sanctify them in the truth,” prayed Jesus for His disciples; “Thy word is truth” (John 17:17). The trustful acceptance of the truth revealed by Christ brings with it the consecration of our spirit to God. In such faith and consecration our salvation lies. Section IV. Words of Comfort and Prayer Ch. 2 Thessalonians 2:13 to 2 Thessalonians 3:5Passing from the last Section, we breathe a sigh of relief, and gladly join in thanksgiving for those who will “prevail to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man” (Luke 21:36). Under the solemn feelings awakened by his contemplation of the image of Antichrist, the Apostle turns to his readers, blending thanksgiving with exhortation and renewed prayer on their account. (1) He renders thanks to God Who had chosen and called them to salvation, 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14; (2) he urges them to be steadfast, 2 Thessalonians 2:15; (3) he prays that God’s love may be their comfort, 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17. In turn he (4) requests their prayers for himself, ch. 2 Thessalonians 3:1-2; (5) he assures them of God’s faithfulness, and of his own confidence in them, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4; and (6) prays once more for Divine guidance on their behalf, 2 Thessalonians 2:5.”
Now you have learned God’s will is to abstain from sexual immorality, to be sanctified by the Holy Spirit and faith in the truth. You do well.
To receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior is to receive the eternal life.
*Our mission is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ absolutely free. We do not want donation. We only want you to know the truth.
The Word of God is the Word of the Lord. The Word of the Lord is the Word of God. The Bible does not tell any difference between the two terms. So we believe THE WORD OF GOD = THE WORD OF THE LORD. They are one and the same. BECAUSE God is the Lord, and the Lord is God. The Word of God explains its nature, function and power. If a statement of an American president can cause European stock market a deep dip, you can imagine how much power the Word of God has.
In the past, usually the Word of God or the Word of the Lord came upon a prophet. A prophet was a spokesman of God. The Word of God came to a prophet became a prophecy. Prophecy always deals with the future. When prophecy was fulfilled it became history.
The Word of God came to a prophet can deal in many subjects, from individual to a city like Jerusalem, to a king or kingdom, or to a city state like Nineveh.
When king David sinned, the prophet Nathan; 2Sa 12:7-14, “Nathan then said to David, “You yourself are the man! This is what the LORD, the God of Israel says: ‘It is I who anointed you as king over Israel, and it is I who rescued you from the hand of Saul.
‘I also gave you your master’s house and put your master’s wives into your care, and I gave you the house of Israel and Judah; and if that had been
too little, I would have added to you many more things like these! ‘Why have you despised the Word of the LORD, by doing evil in His sight? You have struck and killed Uriah the Hittite with the sword, you have taken his wife as your wife, and you have slaughtered him with the sword of the sons of Ammon. ‘Now then, the sword shall never leave your house, because you have despised Me and have taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be your wife.’ “This is what the LORD says: ‘Behold, I am going to raise up evil against you from your own household; I will even take your wives before your eyes and give them to your companion, and he will sleep with your wives in broad daylight.‘Indeed, you did it secretly, but I will do this thing before all Israel, and in open daylight.’ ”Then David said to Nathan, “I have sinned against the LORD.” And Nathan said to David, “The LORD also has allowed your sin to pass; you shall not die. “However, since by this deed you have shown utter disrespect for the LORD, the child
himself who is born to you shall certainly die.”
To make a long story short, the child died as the Lord said.
2 Samuel 12:7. Nathan said to David, Thou art the man — Though he took such a mild, gentle, and prudent manner to bring David to a proper view and just sense of his sin, yet he deals faithfully with him at the last, and sets his iniquity before him in all its aggravations. Thus, in a similar way, by most appropriate and striking parables, our Lord set the sin which the Jews were about to commit in crucifying him before them in so clear a light, and showed it to be so inexcusable, that they were led, before they were aware, to pass an equally severe sentence against themselves. See Matthew 21:28-46. The Jews, however, when they perceived that Christ referred to them in his parables, were only exasperated the more, and sought the sooner to lay hands on him. But David being, although greatly fallen, of a different spirit, was brought by Nathan’s words to deep and lasting repentance. O, how did Nathan’s application of his parable, Thou art the man, pronounced in all the dignity and authority of the prophetic character, sink into David’s soul! especially when he proceeded to a further explication of the greatness of his iniquity, which he does in the following words. Thus saith the Lord God of Israel — Nathan now speaks, not as a petitioner from a poor man, but as an ambassador from the great Jehovah, I anointed thee king over Israel, &c. — Thus he aggravates David’s sin, from the obligations he was under to God, who had raised him to the highest dignity from a very low condition, and had extricated him from the greatest dangers and distresses.
Samuel was dealing with a bad king Saul. 1Sa 9:27,
“As they were going down to the edge of the city, Samuel said to Saul, “Speak to the servant and have him go on ahead of us and pass by; but you stand here now, so that I may proclaim the Word of God to you.” A true prophet always proclaims the Word of God. Proclaim in Hebrew is šāmaʿwhich means to declare; tell; publish; report; announce; — which occurs 1,165 times in the Old Testament. The Word of God was exclusive, the servant of Saul must not hear it. The Word of God was so urgent that Samuel must proclaim to Saul now.
href=”https://biblehub.com/commentaries/gill/1_samuel/9.htm” Gill’s Exposition of the Entire BibleAnd as they were going down to the end of the city,…. That end of it that led the way to the place where Saul was going. As this city was built on an hill, going to the end of it was a declivity, a descent:Samuel said to Saul, bid the servant pass on before us; being another man’s servant, he did not choose of himself to bid him go on, but desired his master to order him to go before them, that he might not hear what Samuel had to say to Saul, or see what he did unto him; for as the choice of Saul to be king was to be declared by lot, as coming from the Lord, all those precautions were taken of rising early, and going abroad, and sending the servant before them, that it might not be thought that Samuel did this of himself: and he passed on; his master bidding him: but stand thou still a while; that he might hear the better, and more attentively than in walking; such a posture was most fitting also for what was to be done, anointing him with oil:that I may show thee the word of God: tell him more of the mind of God concerning his being king, and declare more fully the word, will, and decree of God about that matter, by an action which would put it out of all doubt that he was the man God designed to be king, as in the following chapter.”
Elijah was a powerful prophet, 1Ki 21:17-21,”Then the Word of the LORD came to Elijah the Tishbite, saying, “Arise, go down to meet Ahab king of Israel, who is in Samaria; behold, he is in the vineyard of Naboth, where he has gone down to take possession of it. “And you shall speak to him, saying, ‘This is what the LORD says: “Have you murdered and also taken
possession?”’ And you shall speak to him, saying, ‘The LORD says this: “In the place where the dogs licked up the blood of Naboth, the dogs will lick up your blood, yours as well.” Then Ahab said to Elijah, “Have you found me, enemy of mine?” And he answered, “I have found you, because you have given yourself over to do evil in the sight of the LORD.
“Behold, I am bringing disaster upon you, and I will utterly sweep you away, and will eliminate from Ahab every male, both bond and free in Israel.”
But when Ahab went down to Jezreel to take possession of the vineyard of Naboth, Elijah came to meet him by the command of God, with the word of the Lord, “Hast thou murdered and also taken possession?” The question served to sharpen his conscience, since Ahab was obliged to admit the fact. בּשׁמרון אשׁר means “who lives at Samaria,” for when Elijah came to meet him, Ahab was in Jezreel, Elijah then said to him still further: “Thus saith the Lord: In the place where the dogs have licked the blood of Naboth, will they also lick thine, yea, thy blood.” אתּה גּם serves as an emphatic repetition of the suffix (cf. Ges. 121, 3). This threat was only so far fulfilled upon Ahab, from the compassion of God, and in consequence of his humbling himself under the divine judgment (1 Kings 21:27-29), that dogs licked his blood at Samaria when the carriage was washed in which he had died (1 Kings 22:38); but it was literally fulfilled in the case of his son Joram, whose corpse was cast into Naboth’s piece of ground (2 Kings 9:25-26).”
What about false prophets and false prophecies?
Deu 18:22, “When the prophet speaks in the name of the LORD, and the thing does not happen or come true, that is the thing which the LORD has not spoken. The prophet has spoken it presumptuously; you are not to be afraid of him.”
22. The falseness of such a prophet is exposed by the non-fulfilment of his predictions. Jeremiah states the converse: if any prophet prophesy peace (which in the seventh century the false prophets usually did) and his word come to pass, then shall the prophet be known that the Lord hath truly sent him (Jeremiah 28:9). It is true that ‘this test is explicitly rejected for the prophets of other gods (Deuteronomy 13:1-5); nor is the higher Hebrew prophecy nearly so much predictive as interpretative’ (Wheeler Robinson in loco). Yet we must remember that though the main burden of the prophets consisted of truths of morality and religion (the unity and righteousness of God and the ethical character of His demands) they were also concerned with the vindication of these in the actual experience of the people. To them truth was never merely abstract, they looked for its fulfilment by God in history. Prof. A. B. Davidson once said to the present writer: ‘The prophets were terribly one-idea’d men. Yet their one idea was the greatest of all, that God was going to do something.’ So Amos 3:4-8. The two most spiritual of the prophets staked their credit as the bearers of God’s word on certain historical issues. Isaiah was sure of the inviolableness of Jerusalem and the survival of a remnant of the people (on this see Rev. of Theol. & Phil. iii. 7 by the present writer in answer to Guthe’s Jesaia in Religionsgeschichtlicke Volksbücher); and Jeremiah was content to wait on events for the decision whether he or Hananiah had the word of the LORD (Jeremiah 28 esp. 11b, see Duhm’s fine remarks on this chapter in the Kurzer Hand-Commentar). Again after reporting the word of the LORD, that his uncle should come to him asking him to buy his field, he adds when the uncle came and did so, then knew I that this was the word of the LORD (Deuteronomy 32:6 ff.). Of course, behind all this was the faith that God had a future for Israel in the land, though the Babylonians had overrun it and Jerusalem must fall to them. If then Jeremiah himself so much depended for the proof of his message upon the issue of events, we cannot be surprised that D proposes to the popular mind the same test of a prophet’s word.—Though beyond our immediate subject we may note that the word of the Lord by the true prophet was not always fulfilled. This is explained in Jeremiah 18 and Jonah 4 as due to a change in the moral situation. Such, however, is not a full explanation. Sometimes, as in the case of the non-fulfilment of Jeremiah’s own early predictions about the Scythians, and his slow arrival (only after the battle of Carchemish) at the conviction that Babylon was to be the executioner of God’s judgements on Israel, the change in the prophet’s word was due to altered political circumstances. Deuteronomy 18:22.”
Now almost all the prophecies about the second coming of Jesus Christ have been fulfilled. Many do not realize the second coming of Jesus Christ is more than one event, it is a series of process. The process begins with the Rapture, the Great Tribution, the Appearing of Jesus Christ, the Millennium, the Armegedon, Judgment at the Throne of God, and finally the Kingdom of Heaven when Christ will reign forever and ever.
Eschatology is the special branch of theology in studying the last things. Before Jesus Christ returns, the Rapture has to take place. The Rapture which is taking up of believers in secret to meet the Lord in the space has not taken place. We believe the second coming of Jesus Christ is imminent, it means it could take place any time now. But one thing is sure, for Jesus says, Mat 24:42, “Therefore be on the alert, for you do not know which day your Lord is coming.”
Among the wrong predictions of the end of the world was Maya Apocalypse, December 21, 2012. Of course, the world did not end on 12-21-2012. Let me repeat it agains, all dates to predict the second coming of Christ will fail like others. The Lord knows when He is coming. Christians must be alert.
Matthew 24:42. Γρηγορεῖτε, watch[1068]) This was the reason, no doubt, that the names Gregory and Vigilantius were so common in the ancient Church. You may ask why those who were so far distant from the last day were exhorted to watchfulness on that ground? I answer—(1.) The remoteness of the event had not been indicated to them. (2.) Those who are alive at any particular time represent those who will be alive at the end of the world; see Gnomon on 1 Thessalonians 4:15. (3.) The principle of the Divine judgments, and of the uncertainty of the hour of death, resembles in every age that of the last day; and the hour of death is equivalent to the hour of resurrection and judgment, as though no time had been interposed. (4.) The feeling of the godly, which stretches forward to meet the Lord, is the same, whether with the longest or the shortest expectation. (5.) If every one had had to watch, from the time of the Apostles to the Lord’s coming, it would have been well worth the trouble of so doing.—ὁ κύριος ὑμῶν, your Lord) called in Matthew 24:44 the Son of Man. [1068] Latin, “vigilate,” from which verb (vigilo) the name Vigilantius is derived; as Gregorius from the Greek verb employed in this passage.—(I. B.)”
Luk 8:11, “Now this is the parable: the seed is the Word of God.”
Figuratively and significantly, the Word of God is like the seed.
11. It has been granted you to grasp these mysteries unveiled; to the rest it has been only given to grasp them under the veil of parables. that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand] These words are difficult, and (without dwelling on the fact that the particle ἵνα loses in later Greek some of its final force) must not be pressed with unreasonable and extravagant literalism to mean that the express object of teaching by parables was to conceal the message of the kingdom from all but the disciples. This would have been to put the kindled lamp under a couch or a bushel. On the contrary they were addressed to the multitudes, and deeply impressed them, as they have impressed the world in all ages, and have had the effect, not of darkening truth but of bringing it into brighter light. The varying phrase of St Matthew, “because seeing they see not, &c.,” will help us to understand it. Our Lord wished and meant the multitudes to hearken and understand, and this method awoke their interest and deepened their attention; but the resultant profit depended solely on the degree of their faithfulness. The Parables resembled the Pillar of Fire, which was to others a Pillar of Cloud. If they listened with mere intellectual curiosity or hardened prejudice they would only carry away the parable itself, or some complete misapplication of its least essential details; to get at its real meaning required self-examination and earnest thought. Hence parables had a blinding and hardening effect on the false and the proud and the wilful, just as prophecy had in old days (Isaiah 6:9-10, quoted in this connexion in Matthew 13:14, comp. Acts 28:26-27; Romans 11:8). But the Prophecy and the Parable did not create the hardness or stolidity, but only educed it when it existed—as all misused blessings and privileges do. It was only unwillingness to see which was punished by incapacity of seeing. The natural punishment of spiritual perversity is spiritual blindness. Nothing can be better than the profound remark of Lord Bacon, that “a Parable has a double use; it tends to vail, and it tends to illustrate a truth; in the latter case it seems designed to teach, in the former to conceal.” “Though truths in manhood darkly join, Deep seated in our mystic frame, We yield all blessing to the name Of Him who made them current coin. For Wisdom dealt with mortal powers, Where truth in closest words shall fail, When truth embodied in a tale Shall enter in at lowly doors.” 11. The seed is the word of God] We have the same metaphor in Colossians 1:5-6; 1 Corinthians 3:6; and a similar one in James 1:21, “the engrafted word;” 2Es 9:31; 2Es 9:33, “Behold, I sow my law in you, and it shall bring fruit in you…yet they that received it perished, because they kept not the thing that was sown in them.”
Luk 8:21, “But He answered and said to them, “My mother and My brothers are these who hear the Word of God and do it.”
Jesus stresses the importance of doing the Word of God that those who hear the Word of God and do it are like His mother and brothers.
Blessed is the womb … – She thought that the “mother” of such a person must be especially happy in having such a son. Yea, rather blessed … – Jesus admits that she was happy – that it was an honor to be his mother, but he says that the chief happiness, the highest honor, was to obey the word of God. Compared with this, all earthly distinctions and honors are as nothing. Man’s greatest dignity is in keeping the holy commandments of God, and in being prepared for heaven. See the notes at Luke 10:20.”
Luk 10:39, “And she had a sister called Mary, who was also seated at the Lord’s feet, and was listening to His Word.”
Luk 10:42, “but only one thing is necessary; for Mary has chosen the
good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”
If you have money and gold, thieves and robbers can take them away from you. If like Mary you have chosen the good part which is the Word of God, it shall not be taken away from you.
(42) But one thing is needful.—Some of the better MSS. present a singular various-reading, There is need of few things, or of one only. It is obvious that this might be taken either literally or spiritually. They might mean (1) that He who spoke, and the others who were coming, needed not the many things about which Martha was troubled, but a few only, or even but a single dish, to supply their wants; or (2) that the true life of men needed but a few things, such as faith, obedience, the fear of God, or even but one only, the devout and intent love which Mary was then showing. The latter interpretation is clearly most in harmony with our Lord’s usual teaching, though the former has something like a parallel in the teaching of Luke 10:7 of this very chapter. It is not improbable that our Lord designedly used words which had an outer and an inner meaning, the latter intended chiefly for those who “had ears to hear.” There is a singular coincidence between the words here spoken to Martha and those addressed to the young ruler (“one thing thou lackest”), whom we have seen reason to identify with her brother. (See Note on Matthew 19:16.) The omission of “few things” in the received text, may have originated in the wish to give an exclusive prominence to the higher meaning.
Mary hath chosen that good part.—The Greek noun is very nearly the same as that which the younger son, in Luke 15:12, uses for “the portion of goods,” the good part or portion here being nothing less than the eternal life which is the gift of God. Here too we may trace something approaching to a half-playful mingling of the higher and lower meanings of the word which was used in the Greek version of the Old Testament at once for Benjamin’s mess, i.e., portion of food (Genesis 43:34), and for God as the “portion” of His people (Psalm 73:26). Even on the assumption that our Lord spoke in Aramaic, and not in Greek, a like play upon the word would have been equally possible.
The two sisters have come to be regarded as the representatives respectively of the active and the contemplative forms of the religious life, and there is, of course, a certain measure of truth in this view. On the other hand, however, it must be remembered that Martha’s activity, with its manifold distractions, was not Christian activity, and that Mary’s contemplation passed, when the time came for it, as in John 12:3, into full and intense activity. The contrast is rather that between singleness of heart and the character which St. James describes as “double-minded” (James 1:8), i.e., divided in its affections.”
You will never regret the time you spent on studying the Word of God. Do it while you are alive. Even better if you do deep study of the Word of God while young.
Jhn 10:35, ““If he called them gods, to whom the Word of God came (and the Scripture cannot be nullified).”
The Word of God is the Scripture which cannot be nulified.
35. If he called them gods] More probably, Ifitcalled them gods, viz. the Law. ‘Them’ is left unexplained; a Jewish audience would at once know who were meant. But how incredible that any but a Jew should think of such an argument, or put it in this brief way! These last eight verses alone are sufficient to discredit the theory that this Gospel is the work of Greek Gnostic in the second century. the word of God] Practically the same as ‘the Scripture;’ i.e. the word of God in these passages of Scripture. The Word in the theological sense for the Son is not meant: this term appears nowhere in the narrative part of S. John’s Gospel. But of course it was through the Word, not yet incarnate, that God revealed His will to His people. cannot be broken] Literally, ‘cannot be undone’ or ‘unloosed.’ The same word is rendered ‘unloose’ (John 1:27), ‘destroy’ (John 2:19), ‘break’ (John 5:18 and John 7:23), ‘loose’ (John 11:44). John 1:27 and John 11:44 are literal, of actual unbinding; the others are figurative, of dissolution or unbinding as a form of destruction. Here either metaphor, dissolution or unbinding, would be appropriate; either, ‘cannot be explained away, made to mean nothing;’ or, ‘cannot be deprived of its binding authority.’ The latter seems better. The clause depends upon ‘if,’ and is not parenthetical; ‘if the Scripture cannot be broken.’ As in John 2:22, John 17:12, John 20:9, ‘the Scripture’ (singular) probably means a definite passage. Comp. John 7:38; John 7:42, John 13:18, John 17:12, John 19:24; John 19:28; John 19:36-37. Scripture as a whole is called ‘the Scriptures’ (plural); John 5:39.”
Act 4:31, “And when they had prayed, the place where they had gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak the Word of God with boldness.”
To be filled with the Holy Spirit is not to speak in tongues (as the Pentecost denomination erroneously teaches), but to speak the Word of God with boldness and power.
31. the place was shaken] That they might feel at once that the God of all nature, to whom they had appealed (Acts 4:24), was among them. In their immediate need an immediate answer is vouchsafed, and a token with it that their prayer was heard. Cp. Acts 16:26 of the shaking of the prison at Philippi after the prayers of Paul and Silas. spake the word of God] i.e. wherever they found occasion and opportunity, neglecting the threats of the council, and endowed with the boldness for which they had prayed.”
Act 6:7, “The Word of God kept spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were becoming obedient to the Faith.”
And the word of God increased – That is, the gospel was more and more successful, or became more mighty and extensive in its influence. An instance of this success is immediately added.
And a great company of the priests – A great “multitude.” This is recorded justly as a remarkable instance of the power of the gospel. How great this company was is not mentioned, but the number of the priests in Jerusalem was very great; and their conversion was a striking proof of the power of truth. It is probable that they had been opposed to the gospel with quite as much hostility as any other class of the Jews. And it is now mentioned, as worthy of special record, that the gospel was sufficiently mighty to humble even the proud, and haughty, and selfish, and envious priests to the foot of the cross. One design of the gospel is to evince the power of truth in subduing all classes of people; and hence, in the New Testament we have the record of its having actually subdued every class to the obedience of faith. Some mss., however, here instead of “priests” read Jews. This reading is followed in the Syriac version.
Were obedient to the faith – The word “faith” here is evidently put for the “Christian religion.” Faith is one of the main requirements of the gospel Mark 16:16, and by a figure of speech is put for the gospel itself. To become “obedient to the faith,” therefore, is to obey the requirements of the gospel, particularly what requires us to “believe.” Compare Romans 10:16. By the accession of the “priests” also no small part of the reproach would be taken away from the gospel, that it made converts only among the lower classes of the people. Compare John 7:48.”
Act 13:5, “When they reached Salamis, they began to proclaim the Word of God in the synagogues of the Jews; and they also had John as their helper.”
And when they were at Salamis,…. A chief city of Cyprus; and so Herodotus (f) calls it Salamis of Cyprus; and in this island it is placed by Pliny (g) and Ptolomy (h): it was built by Teucer, the son of Telamon, after his return from the Trojan war; and so called by him, from his native country Salamine, in Greece, as is generally agreed by historians (i): it was the birth place of the famous philosopher Solon, who is from thence called Salaminius; he died in the island of Cyprus, in the eightieth year of his age; and before he died, gave orders to carry his bones to Salamis, and being reduced to ashes, to scatter them throughout the province (k): it was also claimed by the Cyprians, as the birth place of Homer, and is said (l) to be prophesied of that it should be; it was afterwards called Constantia, and now Famagusta, and is in the hands of the Turks; of it Jerom (m) thus writes:
Salamis, a city in the island of Cyprus, now called Constantia, which, in the time of the Emperor Trajan, the Jews destroyed, having killed all the inhabitants of it:”
which shows what a multitude of Jews dwelt in this island, and even in this place; hence, in this verse, mention is afterwards made of synagogues of Jews in it, where the apostles preached, and which was the reason of their coming hither. This place, with the whole island, was taken from the Venetians by Mustapha, general to Selimus the Second, emperor of the Turks, in the year 1571, after a siege of eleven months; which, when he was possessed of, contrary to the agreement made, he put all the Christians to death; and having cut off the ears and nose of Bragadinus, the governor of it, took off his skin alive (n). Epiphanius, an ancient writer of the fourth century, famous for his books against heresies, was bishop of this place (o), when it was called Constantia, from Constantins Augustus, the emperor; and before him, we read of Gelasius, bishop of this place, who was in the council of Nice; there was a church here in the fifth century; and mention is made of a presbyter of it, in the sixth century, present at the fifth council at Constantinople; and in the seventh century, a bishop of this church was in the sixth council of Constantinople; and in the Nicene synod, in the “eighth” century, John, bishop of this place, assisted (p):
they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews; the Jews being in great numbers in these parts, to them the apostles first preached, though they were sent unto the Gentiles; and this they continued to do, till the Jews put away the Gospel, which made their way more clear and open to the Gentiles: and they had also John to their minister: this was John Mark, whom they brought with them from Jerusalem, Acts 12:12 who waited upon them, and provided for them the necessaries of life; for this is not to be understood of the ministry of the word, which is peculiarly ascribed to them, or of his being an assistant to them in it; nor can it be understood of his being the minister in any of the synagogues for them, to bring out the book of the law, and direct public service, where it cannot be thought he should have any such office and authority; but of his ministering in civil and secular things to the apostles, or to the poor by their orders.”
Act 13:46, “Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly and said, “It was necessary that the Word of God be spoken to you first. Since you repudiate it and consider yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we are turning to the Gentiles.”
(46) Itwas necessary.—The preachers recognised the necessity of following what they looked on as the divine plan in the education of mankind, and so they preached “to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile” (Romans 2:9-10). The former were offered, as the fulfilment of the promise made to Abraham, the high privilege of being the channel through which “all families of the earth should be blessed” by the knowledge of Christ (Genesis 22:18). When they rejected that offer, it was made, without their intervention, to the Gentiles.
Judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life.—There is a touch of righteous indignation, perhaps something like irony, in the words. The preacher had thought them “worthy” of the highest of all blessings, the life eternal which was in Christ Jesus, but they, in their boastful and envious pride, took what was really a lower estimate of themselves, and showed that they were “unworthy.” They passed sentence, ipso facto, on themselves.
Lo, we turn to the Gentiles.—We have to remember (1) that the words were as an echo of those which the Apostle had heard in his trance in the Temple at Jerusalem (Acts 22:21); (2) that they would be heard, on the one hand, by the Gentiles with a joy hitherto unknown, and, on the other, by the Jews as a new cause of irritation.”
Chronologically, the Gospel must be preached “to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile.”
Rom 9:6, “But it is not as though the Word of God has failed. For they are not all Israel who are descended from Israel.”
Romans 9:6-8. Not as though — The original expression, ουχ οιον δε οτι, is rather obscure; but Erasmus supplying, after the Greek scholiast, the words τουτο ου λεγω, seems to have given the sense of it thus; I do not say this, that the word of God hath fallen, namely, to the ground, without effect. The apostle’s meaning is, that nothing he had now said concerning the rejection of the greater part of the Jews, drew any such consequence after it, as that the word of God (that is, his promises made to Abraham and his seed) should miscarry, or fall to the ground; the Jews imagining that the word of God must fail, if all their nation were not saved. This sentiment Paul now refutes, showing, 1st, That the word itself had foretold their rejection: and, 2d, That though the body of the nation was rejected, God’s promises were already fulfilled to the true Israelites, and hereafter all Israel should be saved: which is the sum of the ninth, tenth, and eleventh chapters. For — Here he enters upon the proof of it; they are not all Israel — True spiritual Israelites, to whom the promises belong; which are of Israel — The natural posterity of Jacob, and Israelites by birth, and so visible members of the church. The Jews vehemently maintained the contrary; namely, that all who were born Israelites, and they only, were the people of God. The former part of this assertion is refuted here, the latter, Romans 9:24, &c. The sum is, God accepts all believers, and them only; and this is no way contrary to his word. Nay, he hath declared in his word, both by types and by express testimonies, that believers are accepted as the children of the promise, while unbelievers are rejected, though they are children after the flesh. It is true the great promise, that Jehovah would be their God, was delivered to all the posterity of Israel without exception; but it was intended to be understood in a conditional sense, as what would not be fulfilled to them, unless they imitated the faith of Abraham. And in this sense it was made to the Gentiles, and to the whole world, as well as to the Jews. Neither because they are the seed of Abraham — According to the flesh; will it follow, that they are all children of God. This did not hold even in Abraham’s own family, and much less in his remote descendants. But, God then said, in Isaac shall thy seed be called — Isaac’s posterity, not Ishmael’s, shall be spoken of as thy seed, by way of eminence; that seed to which the promises are made. That is, they who are the children of the flesh — The carnal seed of Abraham; are not — Purely upon that account; the children of God — In the true sense; namely, spiritual children. But the children of the promise — Those whom God hath promised to acknowledge for his children; namely, such as are born again by the supernatural power of God’s Spirit, (as Isaac was conceived and born by a power above the course of nature,) and who by faith lay hold on the promise of salvation made in Christ; these are they who are intended in the covenant with Abraham, the persons whose God Jehovah promised to be, and to whom the spiritual blessings and the inheritance belong. In quoting these words, in Isaac shall thy seed be called, and inferring therefrom that the children of the promise shall be counted for the seed, the apostle does not intend to give the literal sense of the words, but the typical only; and by his interpretation signifies that they were spoken by God in a typical and allegorical, as well as in a literal sense, and that God there declared his counsel concerning those persons whom he purposed to own as his children, and make partakers of the blessings of righteousness and salvation. As if he had said, This is a clear type of things to come; showing us, that in all succeeding generations, not the lineal descendants of Abraham, but they to whom the promise is made, that is, believers, are the true children of God.”
the Word of God, but as from sincerity, but as from God, we speak in Christ in the sight of God.”
I want you to know, my parents were missionaries though poor, for that reason I had known many preachers (Chinese and foreign) who stayed and ate at our home, many I believe were not servants of God. I also discovered “Evangelical Monopoly” — a group of people who called themselves “evangelicals or fundamentalists” – who are bent on to promote themselves in every way and their interests in preaching and publishing. They exclude others who are not ingroups. If you visit the Internet, you can find hundreds if not thousands of individuals or organizations who peddle or merchandise the Word of God by subscription and donation. I think IRS should investigate all so-called tax free individuals or organizations who make big bucks in subscription and donation.
17. For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God] The original makes ‘many’ definite with the article, thus clearly pointing out the false teachers, against whom so much of this and the former Epistle is directed. The word of God may be corrupted (1) by the admixture of foreign doctrines, e. g. those of the Judaizers, who grafted on Christianity the alien doctrine of the universal obligation of the Jewish law, (2) by degrading the doctrine of Christ into a system of argument and disputation (1 Corinthians 1:17-31; 1 Corinthians 2:1; 1 Corinthians 2:4-5; 1 Corinthians 2:14), and (3) by the introduction of personal objects, such as influence, authority, the praise of men (1 Corinthians 4:6; 2 Corinthians 10:12; 2 Corinthians 11:18; Galatians 4:17). The word here translated corrupt occurs nowhere else in the New Testament. It is derived from a substantive equivalent in meaning to our higgler or huckster, especially a dealer in wine (See the LXX. of Isaiah 1:22. The word is not in the Hebrew), and hence from the dishonest practices of these small dealers it has come, by a process somewhat similar to that of our reproachful terms ‘higgling’ or ‘huckstering,’ to mean adulterate, i.e. to mix what should be pure with worthless or even deleterious substances. but as of sincerity, but as of God] See note on 2 Corinthians 1:12. The word is here opposed to the idea of corrupting by admixture. The Apostle does not lose sight even here of the truth to which he returns in ch. 2 Corinthians 3:5, that his purity of heart is a supernatural gift. If he preaches Christ of sincerity, it is because the power to do so comes from God, Who gave the mission. in the sight of God] A task imposed by God, and performed with the consciousness that His All-seeing Eye is upon those whom He has sent. speak we in Christ] St Paul, throughout the whole of this chapter, has had in view the vindication of himself from any ulterior motives or lower principles of action in preaching Christ. His sole object is to minister Him. He desires nothing for himself. If he rebukes, it is for the offender’s sake. If he tests the obedience of the Church, it is because he is set over it for its benefit, not for his. If he preaches the word of God, it is by virtue of an inspiration from Him, whereby he preaches simply and faithfully the words put in his mouth by Christ. His doctrine is of God, delivered as in His sight, and spoken in Christ.”
Phl 1:14, “and that most of the brothers and sisters,
trusting in the Lord because of my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the Word of God without fear.”
14. many] Better, most. It is noticeable that the Apostle should imply that there were exceptions. Possibly, he refers here to what comes out more clearly below, the difference between friendly and unfriendly sections among the Roman Christians. We can scarcely doubt (in view of Romans 16 and Acts 28) that the friendly were the majority. If so, St Paul may here practically say that a majority of the brethren were energized into fresh efforts, by his imprisonment, while a minority, also stirred into new activity, were acting on less worthy motives. In view of the context, this seems more likely than that he should merely imply by this phrase that the revival of activity was not universal. In any case, this verse implies that a spirit of languor and timidity had recently infected the believing community at Rome. the brethren in the Lord] So also R.V. Bps Ellicott and Lightfoot connect the words here otherwise; “the brethren, having in the Lord confidence, &c.” Grammatically, either is possible. But to us the “rhythm of the sentence,” a sort of evidence not easy to define and explain, but a real item for decision, seems to plead for the connexion in the text. It is true that the precise phrase “brethren in the Lord” is not found elsewhere. But a near parallel is Romans 16:13, “Rufus, the chosen one in the Lord”; for there too the words “in the Lord” are in a certain sense superfluous. See too Romans 16:8; Romans 16:10. waxing confident] More strictly and simply (for the Greek participle is practically, though not in form, a present), being confident, confiding.—The idea is that of a sense of rest and reassurance after misgivings. by my bonds] More closely, perhaps, in my bonds. The “confidence was, in a sense, reposed “in,” or on, Paul’s chains, his captivity, just so far as that captivity vividly reminded the Roman believers of the sacredness and goodness of the cause, and of the Person, for whose sake the Apostle unflinchingly incurred it and willingly bore it. The heart is the best interpreter of such words. For the construction in the Greek, cp. Philemon 1:21, the only exact N.T. parallel. It is found, but rarely, in the LXX. are much more bold] Lit., and better, more abundantly venture. They “venture” more often, more habitually, than of late.—On the bearing of such statements on the date of the Epistle see Introduction, p. 16. to speak the word] “The word of the cross” (1 Corinthians 1:18); “of truth” (Ephesians 1:13); “of life” (below, Php 2:16); “of Christ” (Colossians 3:16); “of the Lord” (1 Thessalonians 1:8; 1 Thessalonians 4:15); &c.—It is the revealed and delivered account of what Christ is, has wrought, &c.—It is observable that St Paul regards such “speaking” as the work, not only of the class of ordained Christians, but of Christians in general. See further on Php 2:16.”
2Ti 2:9, “for which I suffer hardship even to imprisonment as a criminal; but the Word of God is not imprisoned.”
Verse 9. – Hardship for trouble, A.V.; unto for even unto, A.V.; as a malefactor for as an evil doer, A.V.; transposition of clause, unto bonds. Wherein (ἐν ῷ); i.e. in which gospel, in the preaching of which. Suffer hardship (κακοπαθῶ); as ver. 3, T.R. Unto bonds (μέχρι δεσμῶν). So μέχρι θανάτου, Philippians 2:8; μέχρις αἵματος, Hebrews 12:4; but most frequently of time, “until,” as Matthew 11:23; Matthew 13:30; Acts 10:30, etc. A malefactor (κακοῦργος); as Luke 23:32, 33, 39; common in classical Greek. Bonds (δεσμῶν); as Acts 26:29; Philippians 1:7, 13, etc.; Colossians 4:18. So St. Paul calls himself δέσμιος, in respect of these bonds (Ephesians 3:1; Ephesians 4:1; 2 Timothy 1:8; Philemon 1:9). The Word of God is not bound. A beautiful reflection of an utterly unselfish mind! The thought of his own bonds, likely soon to be exchanged for the bonds of a martyr’s death, awakens the comforting thought, Though they bind me with an iron chain, they cannot bind the gospel. While I am here, shut up in prison, the Word of God, preached by a thousand tongues, is giving life and liberty to myriads of my brethren of the human race. The tyrant can silence my voice and confine it within the walls of my dungeon; but all the while the sound of the gospel is going through all the earth, its saving words to the ends of the world; and I therein rejoice, yea, and will rejoice; and not all the lemons of Rome can take this joy from me.” 2 Timothy 2:9.”
Heb 4:12, “For the Word of God is living and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, even penetrating as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”
For the word of God – The design of this and the following verse is obvious. It is to show that we cannot escape the notice of God; that all insincerity, unbelief, hypocrisy, will be detected by him; and that since our hearts are perfectly open before him, we should be sincere and should not attempt to deceive him. The sense is, that the truth of God is all-penetrating and searching, and that the real thoughts and intents of the heart will be brought to light, and that if there is insincerity and self-deception there can be no hope of escape. There has been a great variety of opinion here about the meaning of the phrase “the Word of God.” Some have supposed that it means the Lord Jesus; others, the whole of the divine revelation; others the gospel; others the particular threatening referred to here. The “Word of God” is “what God speaks” – whether it be a promise or a threatening; whether it be Law or gospel; whether it be a simple declaration or a statement of a doctrine. The idea here is, that what “God had said” is suited to detect hypocrisy and to lay open the true nature of the feelings of the soul, so that there can be no escape for the guilty. His “truth” is adapted to bring out the real feelings, and to show man exactly what he is. Truth always has this power – whether preached, or read, or communicated by conversation, or impressed upon the memory and conscience by the Holy Spirit. There can be no escape from the penetrating, searching application of the Word of God. That truth has power to show what man is, and is like a penetrating sword that lays open the whole man; compare Isaiah 49:2. The phrase “the Word of God” here may be applied, therefore, to the “truth” of God, however made known to the mind. In some way it will bring out the real feelings, and show what man is.
Is quick – Greek ζῶν zōn – “living.” It is not dead, inert, and powerless. It has a “living” power, and is energetic and active. It is “adapted” to produce this effect.
And powerful – Mighty. Its power is seen in awakening the conscience; alarming the fears; laying bare the secret feelings of the heart, and causing the sinner to tremble with the apprehension of the coming judgment. All the great changes in the moral world for the better, have been caused by the power of truth. They are such as the truth in its own nature is suited to effect, and if we may judge of its power by the greatness of the revolutions produced, no words can over-estimate the might of the truth which God has revealed.
Sharper than any two-edged sword – Literally, “two-mouthed” sword – δίστομον distomon. The word “mouth” was given to the sword because it seemed to “devour” all before it. It consumed or destroyed as a wild beast does. The comparison of the Word of God to a sword or to an arrow, is designed to show its power of penetrating the heart; Ecclesiastes 12:11, “The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies;” compare Isaiah 49:2. “And he hath made my mouth like a sharp sword;” Revelation 1:16, “And out of his mouth went a sharp two-edged sword;” Revelation 2:12, Revelation 2:16; Revelation 19:15. The comparison is common in the classics, and in Arabic poetry; see Gesenius, on Isaiah 49:2. The idea is that of piercing, or penetrating; and the meaning here is, that the Word of God reaches the “heart” – the very center of action, and lays open the motives and feelings of the man. It was common among the ancients to have a sword with two edges. The Roman sword was commonly made in this manner. The fact that it had two edges made it more easy to penetrate, as well as to cut with every way.
Piercing even to the dividing asunder – Penetrating so as to divide.
Soul and spirit – The animal life from the immortal soul. The former word here – ψυχή psuchē – “soul” – is evidently used to denote the “animal life,” as distinguished from the mind or soul. The latter word – πνεῦμα pneuma – “spirit” – means the soul; the immaterial and immortal part; what lives when the animal life is extinct. This distinction occurs in 1 Thessalonians 5:23, “your whole spirit, and soul, and body;” and it is a distinction which we are constantly in the habit of making. There is the body in man – the animal life – and the immortal part that leaves the body when life is extinct. Mysteriously united, they constitute one man. When the animal life is separated from the soul, or when the soul leaves the animated body, the body dies, and life is extinct. To separate the one from the other is, therefore, the same as to take life – and this is the idea here, that the Word of God is like a sharp sword that inflicts deadly wounds. The sinner “dies;” that is, he becomes dead to his former hopes, or is “slain” by the Law; Romans 7:9, “I was alive without the law once, but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.” This is the power referred to here – the power of destroying the hopes of the sinner; cutting him down under conviction; and prostrating him as if a sword had pierced his heart.
And of the joints and marrow – The figure is still continued of the sword that takes life. Such a sword would seem to penetrate even the joints and marrow of the body. It would separate the joints, and pierce through the very bones to the marrow. A similar effect, Paul says, is produced by truth. It seems to penetrate the very essence of the soul, and lay it all open to the view.
And is a discerner of the thoughts – It shows what the thoughts and intentions are. Prof. Stuart, Bloomfield, and some others, suppose that the reference here is to “God” speaking by his word. But the more natural construction certainly is, to refer it to the Word or truth of God. It is true that God searches the heart, and knows the thoughts, but that is not the truth which is prominent here. It is, that the thoughts and intents of the heart are brought out to view by the Word of God. And can anyone doubt this? see Romans 7:7. Is it not true that people are made to see their real character under the exhibition of the truth of God? That in the light of the Law they see their past lives to be sinful? That the exhibition of truth calls to their recollection many long-forgotten sins? And that their real feelings are brought out when the truth of God is proclaimed? Men then are made to look upon their motives as they had never done before, and to see in their hearts feelings whose existence they would not have suspected if it had not been for the exhibition of the truth. The exhibition of the truth is like pouring down the beams of the sun at midnight on a dark world; and the truth lays open the real feelings of the sinner as that sun would disclose the clouds of wickedness that are now performed under cover of the night. Many a man has a deep and fixed hostility to God and to his gospel who might never be sensible of it if the truth was not faithfully proclaimed. The particular idea here is, that the truth of God will detect the feelings of the hypocrite and self-deceiver. They cannot always conceal their emotions, and the time will come when truth, like light poured into the soul, will reveal their unbelief and their secret sins. They who are cherishing a hope of salvation, therefore, should be on their guard lest they mistake the name for the reality. Let us learn from this verse:
(1) The power of truth. It is “suited” to lay open the secret feelings of the soul. There is not an effect produced in awakening a sinner; or in his conviction, conversion, and sanctification, which the truth is not “adapted” to produce. The truth of God is not dead; nor suited to make people “worse;” nor designed merely to show its own “weakness,” and to be a mere occasion on which the Holy Spirit acts on the mind; it is in its own nature Fitted to produce just the effects which are produced when it awakens, convicts, converts, and sanctifies the soul.
(2) the truth should be preached with the feeling that it is adapted to this end. Men who preach should endeavor to understand the nature of the mind and of the moral feelings, as really as he who would inflict a deadly wound should endeavor to understand enough about anatomy to know where the heart is, or he who administers medicine should endeavor to know what is adapted to remove certain diseases. And he who has no belief in the efficacy of truth to produce any effect, resembles one who should suppose that all knowledge of the human system was needless to him who wished to perform a surgical operation, and who should cut at random – piously leaving it with God to direct the knife; or he who should go into a hospital of patients and administer medicines indiscriminately – devoutly saying that all healing must come from God, and that the use of medicine was only to show its own weakness! Thus, many men seem to preach. Yet for aught that appears, truth is just as wisely adapted to save the soul as medicine is to heal the sick; and why then should not a preacher be as careful to study the nature of truth and its adaptedness to a particular end, as a student of the healing art is to understand the adaptedness of medicine to cure disease? The true way of preaching is, to feel that truth is adapted to the end in view; to select what is best suited for that end; to preach as if the whole result depended on getting that truth before the mind and into the heart – and then to leave the whole result with God – as a physician with right feelings will exert all his skill to save his patient, and then commit the whole question of life and health to God. He will be more likely to praise God intelligently who believes that he has wisely adapted a plan to the end in view, than he who believes that God works only at random.”
1Jo 2:14, “I have written to you, fathers, because you know Him who has been from the beginning. I have written to you, young men, because you are strong, and the Word of God remains in you, and you have overcome the evil one.”
14. because ye are strong] Strong in the spiritual warfare in which they have already won the victory: comp. Hebrews 11:34, where, however, ‘strong in war’ probably refers to actual warfare between the Jews and other nations. the word of God abideth in you] An echo of John 15:7. This is the secret of their strength and the source of their victory. They conquer because they are strong, and they are strong because God’s word is ever in their hearts. They have God’s will, especially as revealed in Scripture, and in particular in the Gospel, as a permanent power within them: hence the permanence of their victory. So long as they trust in this and not in themselves, and remember that their victory is not yet final, they may rejoice in the confidence which the consciousness of strength and of victory gives them. It is plain from the context and from John 5:38; John 10:35; John 17:6; John 17:14; Revelation 1:9; Revelation 6:9, that ‘the word of God’ here does not mean the Word, the Son of God. S. John never uses the term ‘Word’ in this sense in the body either of his Gospel or of his Epistle, but only in the theological Introductions to each.”
Act 20:32, “And now I entrust you to God and to the Word of His grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among
all those who are sanctified.” The Word of God is the Word of His grace WHICH is able to build you up.
32. And now, brethren, I commend … his grace] The oldest authorities omit “brethren.” I am to leave you, but I commend you to One who will help you as He has helped me, and who will not leave you. “The word of His grace” means the gracious promises of the Gospel, such as those which Christ gave to His disciples when He foretold the mission of the Comforter (John 17:7-12), and which the Christian preachers might repeat as His words to the converts who believed on His name. which, &c.] This must refer to God, and not to the intervening explanatory clause concerning the “word of God’s grace.” It is God who can build up His people, and give them their heavenly inheritance. and to give you an inheritance] The oldest texts give “theinheritance.” The figure is taken from the apportionment of the promised land among the Israelites. The part of each of God’s servants in the heavenly Canaan is to be regarded as definitely as were the possessions of the chosen people in the earthly Canaan. among … sanctified] The tense is literally “that have been sanctified.” But just as the Apostle uses “saints” frequently in his Epistles to mean those who have been called to be such, so here his words do not indicate that those of whom he speaks have attained the perfection of holiness. When they reach their inheritance, then they will have been perfected in Christ.”
1Co 1:18, “For the Word of the Cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”
The Word of God is the Word of the Cross, it is the power of God.
18–31. God’s Message not intended to flatter the pride of man 18. For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God] Literally, to them that are perishing foolishness, but to us who are being saved it is the (or a) power of God. The connection of this verse with the preceding is not quite clear. It may, however, be thus explained: The doctrine of the Cross is folly to those who are perishing, because they conceive of some inherent excellence in humanity, whereas the Cross proclaims and justifies God’s sentence of death against the human race. The same doctrine is the power of God to those who are in the way of salvation, because it is through faith in Christ’s Blood alone that man can be justified from sin, crucified to the old man, and united to the new man which is created in righteousness and true holiness. To preach the Gospel, then, with wisdom of words, to exalt, that is, the human element, is to take away the power of the Gospel, and to make it in reality the folly which it is deemed to be by unspiritual men. Cf. Romans 1:16; Romans 3:22; Ephesians 4:22-23; Colossians 3:9-10.’
2Co 5:19, “namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their wrongdoings against them, and He has committed to us the Word of reconciliation.”
20. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ] Literally, we undertake an embassy (legatione fungimur, Vulgate; usen message, Wiclif). Tyndale, followed by Cranmer and the Geneva Version, render, are messengers in the roume of. The Rhemish characteristically renders by legates. The signification ‘in the room of,’ for ὑπέρ, is doubtful. It is perhaps better to render ‘for’ with the A.V. (Vulgate, pro). Cf. Ephesians 6:20. An ambassador represents the monarch from whom he is sent, in all matters relating to his mission. What the nature of the mission was, and what the powers of the ambassadors, is stated in the remaining words of the verse. as though God did beseech you by us] See notes on ch. 2 Corinthians 1:3. God may be said rather to exhort or encourage than to beseech (as if God monestith bi us, Wiclif). This, then, was the object for which the full powers of the ambassadors were given, an object still more clearly defined in what follows. Cf. Malachi 2:7; Galatians 4:14. we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God] Rather, we intreat on behalf of Christ (sec above). First there was the encouraging tidings that there was ‘henceforth no condemnation’ to those who accepted the reconciliation offered through Christ (or perhaps the exhortation to accept it, see last note), and next the still more urgent entreaty on Christ’s behalf that they would accept it.”
2Co 6:7, “in the Word of truth, and in the power of God; by the weapons of righteousness for the right hand and the left.”
By the word of truth;living up to and keeping our eye upon the word of God, which is the word of truth: this seems to be the sense, rather than speaking truth to every one, as some have thought. By the power of God; by the efficacious working of the Spirit of God upon our hearts, enabling us to live up to the doctrine we preach. Some understand here, by the power of God, that extraordinary power of working miracles, which God gave the apostles; others, the gospel, which the apostle calls the power of God unto salvation, Romans 1:16. It may be understood of the first and the last joined together; for the gospel is no otherwise the power of God to salvation, than as it is attended to the souls of those to whom it is so made powerful, with the inward, powerful, efficacious working of the Holy Spirit. By the armour of righteousness; he means a good conscience, (which cannot be without a universal rectitude, or uprightness of life), which is a defence against all temptations, either from prosperity or from adversity. In which sense that of Solomon is true: He that walketh uprightly, walketh surely, Proverbs 10:9: and David prayeth, Psalm 25:21: Let integrity and uprightness preserve me.”
Col 3:16,“Let the Word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all
wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.”
(16) The word of Christ.—Here again the definite phrase, “the word of Christ,” takes the place of the commoner phrase, “the word of the Lord,” “the word of God.” It is to “dwell in their hearts.” Hence it is the engrafted word” (James 1:21)—the truth of Christ conceived in the heart, striking root into it, and making it its dwelling-place. It will be observed how all such phrases prepare for the full conception of Him as Himself “the Word of God.”
In all wisdom.—The symmetry of the original, “in all wisdom teaching . . . in grace singing,” suggests the connection of the words with those following, not, as in our version, with those going before. The indwelling Word of God is described as manifesting itself, first, in the wisdom of mutual teaching, next, in the grace of hearty thanksgiving.
Teaching and admonishing . . .—Here again we have at once general identity and special distinction between this and the parallel passage in Ephesians 5:19-20. There, as here, we have the “speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs,” “the singing in the hearts to the Lord,” and the spirit of “thankfulness.” But there the whole is described as a consequence of “being filled with the Spirit,” and, as an outburst of that spiritual enthusiasm, of which the spurious excitement of drunkenness is the morbid caricature. Here the thought starts from “the word of Christ in the soul,” realised through the gift of the Spirit by all our faculties; and it divides itself accordingly into the function of teaching, which bears on the mind; “the singing in grace” of thankfulness, which comes from and goes to the heart; and the “doing all in the name of Christ,” which belongs to the outer sphere of action.
Psalms and hymns.—The ascription to those of an office of “teaching and admonition” describes what is their real, though indirect, effect. In the Church, as in the world, he who “makes a people’s songs” really guides their minds as well as their hearts. For good and for evil the hymns of the Christian Church have largely influenced her theology.”
2Ti 2:15, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a worker
who does not need to be ashamed,accurately handling the Word of truth.”
(15) Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed.—Timothy, and those in the position of Timothy, were to show themselves approved unto God, by turning others, over whom they possessed influence, from the pursuit of vain and unprofitable things. Then their work would be the work of workmen tested by trial, and would be found to have stood the test. (Comp. here 1Corinthians 3:10-15, where the final testing of the work done by God’s workmen, such as Timothy, is spoken of in very clear, heart-searching language.) His own words in the First Epistle to the Corinthians were evidently in St. Paul’s mind when he wrote down this direction to Timothy.
Rightly dividing the word of truth.—Better rendered rightly laying out the word of truth. The Greek word translated in the English version “rightly dividing,” literally signifies “cutting a straight line.” It seems most correct to regard it as a metaphor from laying out a road (see Proverbs 3:6, in the LXX. rendering, where the word is so used), “or drawing a furrow, the merit of which consists in the straightness with which the work of cutting, or laying out, is performed. The word of truth is, as it were, a road which is to be laid out straightly and truly.” So Ellicott. To affirm (see Alford and Huther-Meyer) that the notion of “cutting” had been gradually lost, and that the word already in the time of St. Paul signified simply “to manage rightly,” “to treat truthfully without falsifying,” and that the exact opposite is to corrupt or adulterate the Word of God (2Corinthians 2:17), seems premature. (Comp. Eur. Rhesus, 422, ed. Dindorf.)
In the third century, Clement of Alexandria (Stromata, 7), for instance, certainly uses the word in a sense in which the idea of “cutting” has been lost, when he writes orthotomia (a substantive) as an equivalent for orthodoxia—orthodoxy. It is not improbable that the use of the word here by St. Paul gave the word a fresh starting-point, and that gradually the original meaning passed out of sight.”
5. and have tasted the good word of God] Rather, “that the word of God is good.” The verb “taste,” which in the previous verse is constructed with the genitive (as in classical Greek), is here followed by an accusative, as is more common in Hellenistic Greek. It is difficult to establish any difference in meaning between the constructions, though the latter may imply something which is more habitual—“feeding on.” But possibly the accusative is only used to avoid any entanglement with the genitive “of God” which follows it. There is however no excuse for the attempt of Calvin and others, in the interests of their dogmatic bias, to make “taste of” mean only “have an inkling of” without any deep or real participation; and to make the preciousness of the “word of God” in this place only imply its contrast to the rigour of the Mosaic Law. The metaphor means “to partake of,” and “enjoy,” as in Philo, who speaks of one “who has quaffed much pure wine of God’s benevolent power, and banqueted upon sacred words and doctrines” (De proem. et poen. Opp. i. 428). Philo also speaks of the utterance (rhema) of God, and God, and of its nourishing the soul like manna (Opp. i. 120, 564). The references to Philo are always to Mangey’s edition. The names of the special tracts and chapters may be found in my Early Days of Christianity, 11. 541–543, and passim. the powers of the world to come] Here again it is not easy to see what is exactly intended by “the powers of the Future Age.” If the Future Age be the Olam habba of the Jews, i.e. the Messianic Age, then its “powers” may be as St Chrysostom said, “the earnest of the Spirit,” or the powers mentioned in Hebrews 2:4; Galatians 3:5. If on the other hand it mean “the world to come” its “powers” bring the foretaste of its glorious fruition. It will then be seen that we cannot attach a definitely certain or exact meaning to the separate expressions; on the other hand nothing can be clearer than the fact that, but for dogmatic prepossessions, no one would have dreamed of explaining them to mean anything less than full conversion.”
1Pe 1:23, “for you have been born again not of seed which is
perishable, but imperishable, that is, through the living and enduring Word of God.”
(23) Being born again.—Rather, Having been begotten again. It is not part of the exhortation, as though they had still to be thus begotten, but assigns the moral grounds for the exhortation. It is logically parallel with “seeing ye have purified,” and might be rendered, seeing that ye have been begotten again. For the meaning of the word, refer back to 1Peter 1:3.
Not of corruptible seed.—That is, not of the seed of Abraham, but of the seed of God. This is the argument: “You must learn not to be selfish, or arrogant, as being of the chosen race, but to have a true brotherly feeling and earnest love for the Gentile converts, and for those who, like St. Paul, are specially working for the Gentiles, because your inheritance of the promised ‘salvation’ is grounded, not on your Abrahamic descent, but on your spiritual regeneration, in which matter the Gentile converts are your equals.” That this was the doctrine of St. Peter is certain from his speech at the Council of Jerusalem, “God put no difference between us and them, having purified their hearts by faith;” and again, “It is only through the favour of the Lord Jesus that we hope to be saved, in precisely the same manner as they” (Acts 15:9; Acts 15:11). (Comp., for the argument, 1John 5:1.)
By the word of God.—“Seed,” in the beginning of the clause, is more literally the act of sowing, or engendering, which sowing is carried on “through the living and abiding word of God,” this “word of God” being the actual seed sown. The “seed” of all existence is the spoken Word of God, the expressed will and meaning of creative thought (Psalm 33:6); and so here, even when spoken mediately, through the lips of men (as explained in 1Peter 1:25), it is that which begets men afresh. God creates afresh, though men speak the creative word for Him, just as “it is He that hath made us,” although He does so through natural laws and human powers. The “Word of God” here is, no doubt, the preaching of the gospel, but especially, as it would seem, the preaching of the Resurrection (1Peter 1:3), or of the sufferings and glories of Messiah (1Peter 1:12), the “truth” of the last verse. The part taken by “the Word” in the sacrament of regeneration may be seen again in Ephesians 5:26 and James 1:18; in connection with the other sacrament we may also refer to John 6:63. “Incorruptible” (i.e., imperishable; see 1Peter 1:4; 1Peter 1:18) finds a more energetic paraphrase here in “living and abiding” (the words “for ever” not being part of the true text). The former epithet is a favourite with St. Peter (1Peter 1:3, 1Peter 2:4-5), and is perhaps borrowed from this place by the author to the Hebrews, in connection with the “word of God” (Hebrews 4:12). The epithets serve to prepare the way for the quotation.”
1Jo 2:5, “but whoever follows His Word, in him the love of God
has truly been perfected. By this we know that we are in Him.”
But whoso keepeth his word – That is, what he has spoken or commanded, The term “word” here will include all that he has made known to us as his will in regard to our conduct.
In him verily is the love of God perfected – He professes to have the love of God in his heart, and that love receives its completion or filling up by obedience to the will of God. That obedience is the proper carrying out, or the exponent of the love which exists in the heart. Love to the Saviour would be defective without that, for it is never complete without obedience. If this be the true interpretation, then the passage does not make any affirmation about sinless perfection, but it only affirms that if true love exists in the heart, it will be carried out in the life; or that love and obedience are parts of the same thing; that one will be manifested by the other; and that where obedience exists, it is the completion or perfecting of love. Besides, the apostle does not say that either the love or the obedience would be in themselves absolutely perfect; but he says that one cannot fully develop itself without the other.
Hereby know we that we are in him – That is, by having in fact such love as shall insure obedience. To be in him, is to be united to him; to be his friends. Compare the John 6:56 note; Romans 13:14 note.”
Act 6:2, “So the twelve summoned the congregation of the disciples
and said, “It is not desirable for us to neglect the Word of God in order to serve tables.”
Then the twelve – That is, the apostles. Matthias had been added to them after the apostasy of Judas, which had completed the original number.
The multitude of the disciples – It is not necessary to suppose that all the disciples were convened, which amounted to many thousands, but that the business was laid before a large number; or perhaps “the multitude” here means those merely who were more particularly interested in the matter, and who had been engaged in the complaint.
It is not reason – The original words used here properly denote “it is not pleasing or agreeable”; but the meaning evidently is, it is not “suitable” or “proper.” It would be a departure from the design of their appointment, which was to preach the gospel, and not to attend to the pecuniary affairs of the church.
Leave the word of God – That we should neglect or abandon the preaching of the gospel so much as would be necessary if we attended personally to the distribution of the alms of the church. The “gospel” is here called the “Word of God,” because it is his message; it is what he has spoken, or which he has commanded to be proclaimed to people.
Serve tables – This expression properly denotes “to take care of, or provide for the table, or for the daily needs of a family.” It is an expression that properly applies to a steward or a servant. The word “tables” is, however, sometimes used with reference to “money,” as being the place where money was kept for the purpose of “exchange, etc.,” Matthew 21:12; Matthew 25:27. Here the expression means, therefore, to attend to the pecuniary transactions of the church, and to make the proper distribution for the needs of the poor.”
There are false leaders who want the Chruch to do relief work, to do charity work, to do social work, etc., to forgo the primary work of the Church is to preach the glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ.
The Church may do the social work, but the Church is not to neglect the Word of God to do any other work.
The churches who do not have the Holy Spirit, use all kinds of gimmicks to attract people such as Christmas plays, concerts, charity, poverty relief, social work, youth programs, and all kinds of outreach in stead of the Word of God. Many local churches have become social clubs. Once a pastor of a Chinese church proudly announced that he just got back from Denmark after learning social work. I had ceased to do anything with that Chinese church because it did not practice the truth of the Gospel. The true mission of the Church of Jesus Christ is, Mat 28:19, “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” 1Co 1:17, “For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the Gospel, not with cleverness of speech, so that the Cross of Christ would not be made of no effect.”
17. For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel] “Even the less earned can baptize perfectly, but perfectly to preach the Gospel is a far more difficult task, and requires qualifications which are far more rare.”—Augustine. not with wisdom of words] Rather discourse, as in 1 Corinthians 1:5. Here the matter of the discourse as well as its expression is meant, though the latter is probably the predominant idea. For it is impossible to study the philosophy of the Apostolic and post-Apostolic period without seeing how much it consisted of word-play.”
(17) Not tobaptize.—Preaching was eminently the work of the Apostles. The deacons used to baptise (Acts 10:48). The mention of “the preaching of the glad tidings” affords an opportunity for the Apostle stating in vindication of himself why that, and not philosophy, was the subject of his preaching, “lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.” Such, and not inability or ignorance, was the grand cause of his simplicity.”
Where can you find preachers who preach the Gospel with power today?
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1.) Mat 22:29, “But Jesus answered and said to them, “You are mistaken, since you do not understand the Scriptures nor the power of God.”
Scientists and scholars are mistken often because they do not understand the Scriptures nor the power of God. There are countless mistakes simply because people do not understand the Scriptures nor the power of God.
Ye do err, not knowing … – They had taken a wrong view of the doctrine of the resurrection.
It was not taught that people would marry there. The “Scriptures,” here, mean the books of the Old Testament. By appealing to them, Jesus showed that the doctrine of the future state was there, and that the Sadducees should have believed it as it was, and not have added the absurd doctrine to it that people must live there as they do here. The way in which the enemies of the truth often attempt to make a doctrine of the Bible ridiculous is by adding to it, and then calling it absurd. The reason why the Saviour produced a passage from the books of Moses Matthew 22:32 was that they had also appealed to his writings, Matthew 22:24. Other places of the Old Testament, in fact, asserted the doctrine more clearly Daniel 12:2; Isaiah 26:19, but he wished to meet them on their own ground. None of those scriptures asserted that people would live there as they do here, and therefore their reasoning was false.
Nor the power of God – They probably denied, as many have done since, that God could gather the scattered dust of the dead and remould it into a body. On this ground they affirmed that the doctrine could not be true – opposing reason to revelation, and supposing that infinite power could not reorganize a body that it had at first organized, and raise a body from its own dust which it had at first raised from nothing.”
2.) Luk 22:69, “But from now on the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the power of God.”
By the power of God, Jesus rose from the dead and ascended the highest Heaven and sits at the right hand of the power of God.
(69) Hereafter shall the Son of man sit.—Literally, From this time forth shall the Son of Man be sitting. In St. Luke’s shorter record the immediate sequence of this confession upon an apparent refusal to answer seems hardly consistent. The narrative of St. Matthew shows that the change of purpose or of action was caused by the solemn adjuration of the high priest, which no longer left Him the alternative of silence. The form of the answer, too, is somewhat altered. Not “ye shall see,” but simply “shall be sitting,” as though the dominant thought in St. Luke’s mind in reporting the words was that even in the agony and death that were so soon to come on Him, our Lord found Himself glorified (John 12:23). The Cross was-His Throne, and while hanging on it, He was in spirit sitting at the right hand of the Father.”
3.) Rom 1:16, “For I am not ashamed of the Gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.”
(16) The Apostle will not be ashamed of his mission, even in the metropolis of the world. He cannot be ashamed of a scheme so beneficent and so grand. The gospel that he preaches is that mighty agency which God Himself has set in motion, and the object of which is the salvation of all who put their faith in it, to whatever nation or race they may belong. He has, perhaps, in his mind the reception he had met with in other highly civilised cities. (Comp. Acts 17:32.) He had himself once found a “stumbling-block” in the humiliation of the Cross; now, so far from being ashamed of it, it is just that of which he is most proud. The preaching of the Cross is the cardinal point of the whole gospel.
Of Christ.—These words are wanting in the oldest MSS., and should be omitted.
Power of God.—A powerful agency put forth by God Himself—the lever, as it were, by which He would move the world.
Unto salvation.—The object of this gospel is salvation—to open the blessings of the Messianic kingdom to mankind.
To the Jew first.—Here again we have another exhaustive division of mankind. “Greek” is intended to cover all who are not “Jews.” Before the Apostle was making, what may be called, the secular classification of men, here he makes the religious classification. From his exceptional privileges the Jew was literally placed in a class alone.
It is not quite certain that the word “first” ought not to be omitted. In any case the sense is the same. St. Paul certainly assigns a prerogative position to the Jews. They have an “advantage” (Romans 3:1-2). To them belong the special privileges of the first dispensation (Romans 9:4-5). They are the original stock of the olive tree, in comparison with which the Gentiles are only as wild branches grafted in (Romans 11:17et seq.). It was only right that the salvation promised to their forefathers should be offered first to them, as it is also said expressly in the Fourth Gospel, that “salvation is of the Jews” (John 4:22).
First.—A difficult question of textual criticism is raised here. The word is not found in the Vatican MS. in a citation by Tertullian (circ. 200 A.D.), and in the Græco-Latin Codex Boernerianus at Dresden. In all other MSS. and versions it appears. The evidence for the omission is thus small in quantity, though good in quality; and though it shows, in any case, a considerable diffusion in Egypt and Africa as far back as the second century, internal considerations do not tell strongly either way, but it seems a degree more probable that the word was accidentally dropped in some early copy. Of recent editions, it is bracketed by Lachmann, and placed in the margin by Tregelles and Vaughan.”
4.) 1Co 1:18, “For the Word of the Cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”
There are two groups of people: the unbelieving who are perishing; and the believing who are being saved. The Word of the Cross is the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Verses 18-25. – The nature of true Christian preaching. Verse 18. – For the preaching of the cross; rather, the word of the cross. To them that are perishing; rather, to the perishing; to all those who are now walking in the paths that lead to destruction (2 Corinthians 2:15). To them it was foolishness, because it requires spiritual discernment (1 Corinthians 2:14); and, on the other hand, human wisdom is foolishness with God (1 Corinthians 3:19). Foolishness. It shows the heroic character of the faith of St. Paul that he deliberately preached the doctrine of the cross because he felt that therein lay the conversion and salvation of the world, although he was well aware that he could preach no truth so certain at first to revolt the unregenerate hearts of his hearers. To the Jews “the cross” was the tree of shame and horror; and a crucified person was “accursed of God” (Deuteronomy 21:23; Galatians 3:13). To the Greeks the cross was the gibbet of a slave’s infamy and a murderer’s punishment. There was not a single association connected with it except those of shame and agony. The thought of “a crucified Messiah” seemed to the Jews a revolting folly; the worship of a crucified malefactor seemed to the Greeks “an execrable superstition” (Tacitus, ‘Ann.,’ 15:44; Pliny, ‘Epp.’ 10:97); yet so little did St. Paul seek for popularity or immediate success, that this was the very doctrine which he put in the forefront, even at a city so refined and so voluptuous as Corinth. And the result proved his inspired wisdom. That very cross became the recognized badge of Christianity, and when three centuries had elapsed it was woven in gold upon the banners and set in jewels on the diadems of the Roman empire. For had not Christ prophesied, And I, if I be lifted up, will draw all men unto me”? Unto us which are being saved; who are on the way of salvation. The same present participle is used in Luke 13:23; Acts 2:47; 2 Corinthians 2:15; Revelation 21:24. It is the power of God. Because the cross is at the heart of that gospel which is “the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth” (Romans 1:16; Romans 8:3), though many were tempted to be ashamed of it. It could never be a carnal weapon of warfare, and yet was mighty for every purpose (1 Corinthians 1:18.”
5.) 1Co 2:5, “so that your faith would not rest on the wisdom of mankind, but on the power of God.”
Philosophers use human reason to challege the Christian faith. But the Christian Faith does not rest on the wisdom of mankind, but on the power of God.
That your faith – That is, that your belief of the divine origin of the Christian religion.
Should not stand – Greek, “should not be;” that is, should not rest upon this; or be sustained by this. God intended to furnish you a firm and solid demonstration that the religion which you embraced was from Him; and this could not be if its preaching had been attended with the graces of eloquence, or the abstractions of refined metaphysical reasoning. It would then appear to rest upon human wisdom.
In the power of God – In the evidence of divine power accompanying the preaching of the gospel. The power of God would attend the exhibition of truth everywhere; and would be a demonstration that would be irresistible that the religion was not originated by man, but was from heaven. That power was seen in changing the heart; in overcoming the strong propensities of our nature to sin; in subduing the soul; and making the sinner a new creature in Christ Jesus. Every Christian has thus, in his own experience, furnished demonstration that the religion which he loves is from God, and not from man. man could not subdue these sins; and man could not so entirely transform the soul. And although the unlearned Christian may not be able to investigate all the evidences of religion; although he cannot meet all the objections of cunning and subtle infidels, although he may be greatly perplexed and embarrassed by them, yet he may have the fullest proof that he loves God, that he is different from what he once was; and that all this has been accomplished by the religion of the cross.
The blind man that was made to see by the Saviour John 10, might have been wholly unable to tell how his eyes were opened, and unable to meet all the cavils of those who might doubt it, or all the subtle and cunning objections of physiologists, but of one thing he certainly could not doubt, that “whereas he was blind, he then saw;” John 10:25. A man may have no doubt that the sun shines, that the wind blows, that the tides rise, that the blood flows in his veins, that the flowers bloom, and that this could not be except it was from God, while he may have no power to explain these facts; and no power to meet the objections and cavils of those who might choose to embarrass him. So people may know that their hearts are changed; and it is on this ground that no small part of the Christian world, as in everything else, depend for the most satisfactory evidence of their religion. On this ground humble and unlearned Christians have been often willing to go to the stake as martyrs – just as a humble and unlearned patriot is willing to die for his country. He loves it; and he is willing to die for it. A Christian loves his God and Saviour; and is willing to die for his sake.”
6.) 1Co 1:24, “but to those who are the called, both
But unto them which are called – To all true Christians. See the note at 1 Corinthians 1:9.
Both Jews and Greeks – Whether originally of Jewish or Gentile extraction, they have here a common, similar view of the crucified Saviour.
Christ the power of God – Christ appears to them as the power of God; or it is through him that the power of salvation is communicated to them. See the note at 1 Corinthians 1:18.
And the wisdom of God – The way in which God evinces his wisdom in the salvation of people. They see the plan to be wise. They see that it is adapted to the end. They see it to be suited to procure pardon, and sanctification, and eternal life. It is God’s wise plan for the salvation of people; and it is seen by those who are Christians, to be adapted to this end. They see that there is a beauty in his character; an excellency in his doctrines; and an efficacy in his atonement, to secure their salvation. – We may remark on this verse:
(1) That when people become Christians, their hearts are changed. The views of Christians are here represented as diametrically opposite to those of other people. To one class, Christ is a stumbling-block; to others, folly; to Christians he is full of beauty. But those views of the Christian, can be obtained only by a change of heart. And the change from regarding an object or being as foolishness to regarding it as full of beauty, must be a radical and a mighty change.
(2) all Christians have similar views of the Saviour. It matters not whether they were Jew or Greek; it matters not whether they were born in a northern or southern clime – “whether an Indian or an African sun has burned upon them;” whether they speak the same or different languages; whether they were born amidst the same or different denominations of Christians; whether in the same or different countries; or whether they are people in the same or different Christian communities, they have the same views of the Saviour. They see him to be the power and the wisdom of God. They are united in him, and therefore united to each other; and should regard themselves as belonging to the same family, and as bound to the same eternal home.
(3) there is real efficacy in the plan of salvation. It is a scheme of power. It is adapted to the end, and is admirably suited to accomplish the great effects which God designs to accomplish. It is not a scheme intended to show its own imbecility, and the need of another and an independent agent to accomplish the work. All the effects which the Holy Spirit produces on the soul, are such, and only such, as the truth of the gospel is adapted to produce in the mind. The gospel is God’s plan of putting forth power to save people. It seizes upon great elements in human nature; and is adapted to enlist them in the service of God. It is just suited to man as a being capable of reasoning and susceptible of emotion; as a being who maybe influenced by hope and fear; who may be excited and impelled to duty by conscience, and who may be roused from a state of lethargy and sin by the prospect of eternal life, and the apprehension of eternal death. “As such” it should always be preached – as a system “wise,” and “adapted” to the great end in view, as a system most powerful and “mighty to the pulling down of strong holds.”
7.) 2Co 13:4, “For indeed He was crucified because
of weakness, yet He lives because of the power of God.
For we too are weak in Him, yet we will live with Him because of the power of God directed toward you.”
4. For though he was crucified through weakness] Chrysostom observes that these words were a great difficulty to the weaker sort. But he explains them by John 11:3-4; Php 2:27; 1 Timothy 5:23, where the word in the original is the same as, or cognate to, that employed here. There is another reading here, which by omitting ‘though,’ or rather ‘if,’ in the original, strengthens the Apostle’s statement. There need be no difficulty. Our Lord assumed our human nature with all its infirmities (Hebrews 2:10-18; Hebrews 4:15; Hebrews 5:2-3; see also ch. 2 Corinthians 8:9, and Php 2:7-8), although they were the result of sin. He bore all those infirmities, death itself included. And then He shook them all off for ever when He rose again ‘by the power of God.’ Cf. Romans 1:4; 1 Corinthians 1:24. For we also are weak in him] In this present life the Apostles of Christ were like their Master. Upborne by the power of God within, they had nevertheless to bear the load of human infirmity, to ‘take up their Cross and follow Him.’ See notes on ch. 2 Corinthians 4:10-12, and cf. Galatians 6:17. And not only so, but the words ‘in Him’ shew that it was a necessary part of their union with Him that they should be partakers of His tribulation, before they were translated into the fulness of His glory. See 2 Thessalonians 1:4-7; 1 Peter 1:5-7; 1 Peter 5:10. we shall live with him] Not, as the following words shew, hereafter, but in the Apostle’s ministry to the Corinthians. Cf. 2 Corinthians 13:3. Also Romans 1:16; John 14:19; 1 Corinthians 1:18, and ch. 2 Corinthians 10:4-6, and note on ch. 2 Corinthians 4:14. The Gospel was a power which enabled men to change their lives, in that it was a ministering to them of the Spirit of Jesus Christ. Compare ch. 2 Corinthians 3:3; 2 Corinthians 3:6; 2 Corinthians 3:8-9 with Romans 8:9-10 and Php 1:19.”
(8) Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord.—Seeing, then—remembering, then, that God gave you and me (notice the beautiful courtesy of the old martyr waiting for death, death the human guerdon of his fearless life, coupling, as he has been doing, his sorrow-stricken, dispirited friend with himself, whom no danger, no failure had ever affected)—remembering, then, the spirit of power, love, and self-control given to us, do not thou be ashamed of the testimony of the Lord. This “testimony” of which Timothy was not to be ashamed, of course includes the sufferings and the shame of Christ. In these, before mocking, scornful men, must Timothy, as an example to the flock, rather glory; but “the testimony” signifies much more than what relates only to the Passion story. The Christian, instead of being ashamed of his “profession,” must before the world show fearlessly that its hopes and its promises are his most precious treasure.
Nor of me his prisoner.—Nor must Timothy either then, or in days to come, be afraid of confessing before men that he had been the disciple and friend of the prisoner St. Paul, who had paid so dearly for the courage of his opinions. Nor Timothy, nor any Christian must shrink from openly espousing the unpopular cause of the Crucified, or from publicly declaring their sympathy with its hated martyrs.
But be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel.—More accurately rendered, but rathersuffer afflictions for the gospel. But, on the contrary, instead of injuring the good cause by faint-hearted conduct, should Timothy rather be ready to suffer, if need be, with St. Paul, ready to bear some shame with him, ready to incur, perhaps, sore danger for the gospel’s sake; and then St. Paul, emphasising his words, and strengthening with a new strength his argument and his exhortation, adds, “in accordance with the power of God”—yes, join with me in suffering, if needs be, for the gospel. Mighty and pitiful was God’s power towards us: great, surely, in proportion should be our readiness to suffer in return, if He asks this—as He is now doing from you and me—at our hands.
According to the power of God.—What power of God? has been asked. Not according to the power we get from God, but according to the power which God has displayed towards us in our calling and in our marvellous salvation. In other words, God, with great power, has succoured us; surely we may be confident that He will never leave us, never desert us, but in the hour of our sorest trouble incurred for Him will help us, and will bring us safely through it. So Chrysostom, who, while asserting that suffering will be borne, but not in our strength but in God’s, says, “Consider how thou hast been saved, and how thou hast been called;” inferring that He who has done so great things for man, in his calling and in his salvation, will never let him want for strength.”
9.) 1Pe 1:4-5, “to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable, undefiled, and will not fade away, reserved in Heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.”
1 Peter 1:5. Who are kept — Who, though now surrounded with many apparent dangers, are not left defenceless, but are guarded, kept as in a garrison, as the word φρουρουμενους signifies; by the power of God — Which worketh all in all; or secured from all real harm, under the observation of his all-seeing eye, and the protection of his almighty hand; through faith — Through the continued exercise of that faith, by which alone salvation is both received and retained. The clause is very emphatical: “It represents,” says Macknight, “believers as attacked by evil spirits and wicked men, their enemies, but defended against those attacks by the power of God, through the influence of their faith, (1 John 5:4,) just as those who remain in an impregnable fortress are secured from the attacks of their enemies by its ramparts and walls.” Ready — Ετοιμην, prepared, to be revealed — In all its glory; in the last time — The time of Christ’s second coming; the grand period, in which all the mysteries of divine providence shall beautifully and gloriously terminate. Some have thought that by the salvation here spoken of, the apostle meant the preservation from the destruction brought on the Jewish nation by the Romans, which preservation the disciples of Christ “obtained, by observing the signs mentioned in their Master’s prophecy concerning that event. For, when they saw these signs take place, they fled from Jerusalem to places of safety, agreeably to their Master’s order, Matthew 24:16. But what is said, 1 Peter 1:9-12, concerning this salvation; that it is a salvation, not of the body, but of the soul, to be bestowed as the reward of faith; that the prophets, who foretold this salvation, searched diligently among what people, and at what time, the means of procuring it were accomplished; that it was revealed to the prophets that these means were to be accomplished, not among them, but among us; and that these things were to be preached by the apostles as actually come to pass: I say, the above- mentioned particulars concerning the salvation to be revealed in the last time, do not agree to the deliverance of the Christians from the destruction of Jerusalem, but are applicable only to the salvation of believers in general from eternal death, by a resurrection to an immortal life in heaven, at the time of Christ’s coming, when this salvation is to be revealed; and that time is called the last time, because it will be the concluding scene of God’s dispensations relating to our world.” — Macknight.”
10.) 2Co 6:7, “in the Word of truth, and in the power of God; by the weapons of righteousness for the right hand and the left.”
By the word of truth – That is, by making known the truths of the gospel. It was his object to make known the simple truth. He did not corrupt it by false mixtures of philosophy and human wisdom, but communicated it as it had been revealed to him. The object of the appointment of the Christian ministry is to make known the truth, and when that is done it cannot but be that they will commend their office and work to the favorable regards of people.
By the power of God – By the divine power which attended the preaching of the gospel. Most of the ancient commentators explain this of the power of working miracles – Bloomfield. But it probably includes all the displays of divine power which attended the propagation of the gospel, whether in the working of miracles, or in the conversion of people. If it be asked how Paul used this power so as to give no offence in the work of the ministry, it may be replied, that the miraculous endowments bestowed upon the apostles, the power of speaking foreign languages, etc., seem to have been bestowed upon them to be employed in the same way as were their natural faculties; see the notes on 1 Corinthians 14:32. The idea here is, that they used the great powers entrusted to them by God, not as impostors would have done, for the purposes of gain and ambition, or for vain display, but solely for the furtherance of the true religion, and the salvation of people. They thus showed that they were sent from God, as well by the nature of the powers with which they were entrusted, as by the manner in which they used them.
By the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left – Interpreters bare varied much in the exposition of this passage; and many have run into utter wildness. Grotius says, that it refers to the manner in which the ancient soldiers were armed. They bore a spear in their right hand, and a shield in the left. With the former they attacked their foes, with the later they made defense. Some have supposed that it refers to the fact that they were taught to use the sword with the left hand as well as with the right. The simple idea is, that they were completely armed. To be armed on the right hand and on the left is to be well armed, or entirely equipped. They went forth to conflict. They met persecution, opposition, and slander. As the soldier went well armed to battle, so did they. But the armor with which they met their foes, and which constituted their entire panoply, was a holy life. With that they met all the assaults of their enemies; with that all slander and persecution. That was their defense, and by that they hoped and expected to achieve their conquests. They had no swords, and spears, and helmets, and shields; no carnal weapons of offence and defense; but they expected to meet all their assaults, and to gain all their victories, by an upright and holy life.”
11.) Luk 1:35, “The angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you;
for that reason also the holy Child will be called the Son of God.”
The Virgin Birth is so supernatural only it can be explained by the Holy Spirit and the power of the Most High.
And the angel answered and said unto her,…. The angel gave her an account of the manner in which what he had said should be effected, as well as observed some things for the strengthening of her faith,
The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee. The words, “upon thee”, are left out in the Syriac and Persic versions; but are retained in others, and in all copies: the formation of Christ’s human nature, though common to all the three persons, yet is particularly, and most properly ascribed to the Spirit; not to the first person, the Father, lest it should be thought that he is only the Father of him, as man; nor to the second person, the Son, since it is to him that the human nature is personally united; but to the third person, the Spirit, who is the sanctifier; and who separated, and sanctified it, the first moment of its conception, and preserved it from the taint of original sin. His coming upon the virgin must be understood in consistence with his omnipresence, and immensity; and cannot design any local motion, but an effectual operation in forming the human nature of her flesh and substance; and not in the ordinary manner in which he is concerned in the formation of all men, Job 33:4 but in an extraordinary way, not to be conceived of, and explained. The phrase most plainly answers to , in frequent use with the Jews (x), as expressive of coition,
And the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee. By “the power of the Highest” is not meant the Lord Jesus Christ, who is sometimes called the power of God; but rather the Holy Ghost, as before, who is styled the finger of God, and power from on high, Luke 11:20 unless it should be thought that the perfection of divine power common to all the three persons is intended: and so points out the means by which the wondrous thing should be performed, even by the power of God; and which should not only be employed in forming the human nature of Christ, but in protecting the virgin from any suspicion and charge of sin, and defending her innocence and virtue, by moving upon Joseph to take her to wife. In the word, “overshadow”, some think there is an allusion to the Spirit of God moving upon the face of the waters, in Genesis 1:2 when, he brooded upon them, as the word may be rendered; and which is the sense of it, according to the Jewish writers (y) as a hen, or any other bird broods on its eggs to exclude its young: and others have thought the allusion may be to , (z), “the nuptial covering”: which was a veil, or canopy, like a tent, supported on four staves, under which the bridegroom and bride were betrothed; or, as Dr. Lightfoot thinks, it is a modest phrase alluding to the conjugal embraces, signified by a man’s spreading the skirt of his garment over the woman, which Ruth desired of Boaz, Ruth 3:9 though the Jewish writers say (a), that phrase is expressive of the act of marriage, or taking to wife. The phrase of being “overshadowed”, or “covered with the spirit of prophecy”, as the virgin also was, is used by the Targumist, on 1 Chronicles 2:55.
therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. The human nature of Christ is here called a “thing”; for it was not a person; it never subsisted of itself, but was taken at once into union with the person of the Son of God, otherwise there would be two persons in Christ, whereas he is God, and man, in one person; and it is said to be “holy”, being free from that original pollution and sin, in which all that descend from Adam, by ordinary generation, are conceived, and brought forth; and is, moreover, said to be born of a virgin, “of thee”, or “out of thee”. Christ’s flesh was formed out of the Virgin’s; he took flesh of her; his body did not descend from heaven, or pass through her, as water through a pipe, as some heretics of old said: nor did his human nature, either as to soul or body, pre-exist his incarnation; but in the fulness of time he was made of a woman, and took a true body of her, and a reasonable soul, into union with his divine person; and “therefore should be called the Son of God”: not that he was now to become the “the Son of God”; he was so before his incarnation, and even from all eternity; but he was now to be manifested as such in human nature: nor does the angel predict, that he should, for this reason, be called the Son of God; for he never was, on this account, so called, either by himself, or others: nor is the particle, “therefore”, causal, but consequential: the angel is not giving a reason why Christ should be the Son of God, but why he should be owned, and acknowledged, as such by his people: who would infer, and conclude from his wonderful conception and birth, that he is the “Emmanuel”, God with us, the child that was to be born, and the Son given, whose name should be Wonderful, Counsellor, the mighty God, &c. Isaiah 7:14. Moreover, the word, “also”, is not to be overlooked; and the sense is, that seeing that human nature, which should be born of the virgin, would be united to the Son of God, it likewise should bear the same name, being in personal union with him, who was so from all eternity.”
12.) Act 2:24, “But God raised Him from the dead, putting an end
to the agony of death, since it was impossible for Him to be held in its power.”
Whom God hath raised up – This was the main point, in this part of his argument, which Peter wished to establish. He could not but admit that the Messiah had been in an ignominious manner put to death. But he now shows them that God had also raised him up; had thus given his attestation to his doctrine; and had sent down his Spirit according to the promise which the Lord Jesus made before his death.
Having loosed the pains of death – The word “loosed,” λύσας lusas, is opposed to bind, and is properly applied to a cord, or to anything which is bound. See Matthew 21:2; Mark 1:7. Hence, it means to free or to liberate, Luke 13:16; 1 Corinthians 7:27. It is used in this sense here; though the idea of untying or loosing a band is retained, because the word translated “pains” often means “a cord or band.”
The pains of death – ὠδῖνας τοῦ θάνατου ōdinas tou thanatou. The word translated “pains” denotes properly “the extreme sufferings of parturition, and then any severe or excruciating pangs.” Hence, it is applied also to death, as being a state of extreme suffering. A very frequent meaning of the Hebrew word of which this is the translation is cord or band. This, perhaps, was the original idea of the word; and the Hebrews expressed any extreme agony under the idea of bands or cords closely drawn, binding and constricting the limbs, and producing severe pain. Thus, death was represented under this image of a band that confined people, that pressed closely on them, that prevented escape, and produced severe suffering. For this use of the word חבל chebel, see Psalm 119:61; Isaiah 66:7; Jeremiah 22:23; Hosea 13:13. It is applied to death, Psalm 18:5, “The snares of death prevented me”; corresponding to the word “sorrows” in the previous part of the verse; Psalm 116:3, “The sorrows of death compassed me, and the pains of hell (Hades or Sheol, the cords or pains that were binding me down to the grave) gat held on me.”
We are not to infer from this that our Lord suffered anything after death. It means simply that he could not be held by the grave, but that God loosed the bonds which had held him there; that he now set him free who had been encompassed by these pains or bonds until they had brought him down to the grave. Pain, mighty pain, will encompass us all like the constrictions and bindings of a cord which we cannot loose, and will fasten our limbs and bodies in the grave. Those bands begin to be thrown around us in early life, and they are drawn closer and closer, until we lie panting under the stricture on a bed of pain, and then are still and immovable in the grave – subdued in a manner not a little resembling the mortal agonies of the tiger in the convolutions of the boa constrictor, or like Laocoon and his sons in the folds of the serpents from the Island of Tenedos.
It was not possible – This does not refer to any natural impossibility, or to any inherent efficacy or power in the body of Jesus itself, but simply means that “in the circumstances of the case such an event could not be.” Why it could not be he proceeds at once to show. It could not be consistently with the promises of the Scriptures. Jesus was the “Prince of life” Acts 3:15; he had life in himself John 1:4; John 5:26; he had power to lay down his life and to take it again Judges 10:18; and it was indispensable that he should rise. He came, also, that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death that is, the devil Hebrews 2:14; and as it was his purpose to gain this victory, he could not be defeated in it by being confined to the grave.”
Just as the Scripture says, Rom 1:4, “who was declared the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness by the resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord.”
4. declared] Better, defined, marked out by sure signs. Same word as Hebrews 4:7 (“He limiteth a certain day”). His Resurrection shewed Him to be none other than the Son. The same Greek word is used in e.g. Acts 10:42; Acts 17:31; and rendered there “ordained;” perhaps rightly so. But obviously its meaning will slightly vary as connected with the Sonship or with the Judgeship of Christ. the Son of God] Cp. Acts 13:32-33, for a close parallel; one of the many between St Paul’s Discourses and Epistles. The Sonship of the Redeemer, the truth proclaimed at His baptism (Matthew 3:17), is enforced and illustrated through the N. T. In this Epistle see especially cch. Romans 5:10, Romans 8:3; Romans 8:29; Romans 8:32. with power] Lit. in power. Cp. 1 Corinthians 15:43. Power attended and characterized His Resurrection, both as cause and as effect. The practical reference here is to the fulness of the proof of the fact. The true Resurrection was not such as that imagined by e.g. Schleiermacher; the creeping forth of a half-slain Man from his grave. It was miracle and triumph. according to the Spirit of holiness] This phrase presents two questions: (1) what is “the Spirit of Holiness”? (2) what is meant by “according to”? We take them in order. A. “The Spirit of Holiness” must mean either the Holy Paraclete, or the sacred Human Spirit of Christ, or His Deity regarded as (what it is, John 4:24,) Spirit. The reference here seems to be to the Paraclete; for (1) in this Epistle He is very frequently referred to, in a way which makes an initial reference here highly probable; (2) the expression “Holy Spirit” is so closely akin to “Spirit of Holiness” that any reference of the words other than that to the Paraclete would need special evidence; and such evidence can hardly be found in St Paul. (See 1 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 9:14; for the nearest approaches to it in N. T.) B. The words “according to” may refer to the Paraclete, either (1) as the Agent in the Incarnation (Luke 1:35), or (2) as concerned in the Resurrection (see Romans 8:11 for a very partial parallel), or (3) as the Inspirer of the Prophets. Of these possibilities (1) is most unlikely, for the Sonship of Christ here in question is plainly the Eternal Sonship (see Romans 9:5), not that of the Incarnation; (2) accords better with Scripture usage; but (3) far more so, in view of the frequent mention of the Holy Spirit as the Inspirer. See Acts 20:23; 1 Timothy 4:1; Hebrews 3:7; Hebrews 9:8; Hebrews 10:15, (and cp. 1 Peter 1:11); for places where “the Spirit” is evidently the Holy Spirit as the Author of Prophecy. The present passage will thus mean: “He was declared to be the Son of God, with power, (even as the Holy Ghost foretold,) in consequence of the resurrection.” by the resurrection] Lit. out of, from; i.e. in consequence, as a result, of. The same construction and meaning occur e.g. 2 Corinthians 13:4, where lit. “He was crucified out of weakness; He liveth out of the power of God; we shall live out of, &c.” The grand result of the resurrection here stated is that His prophesied character and dignity were, by the resurrection, made unmistakably clear.”
13.) Rev 20:6, “Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they
will be priests of God and of Christ, and will reign with Him for a thousand years.”
Blessed – That is, his condition is to be regarded as a happy or a favored one. This is designed apparently to support and encourage those who, in the time of John, suffered persecution, or who might suffer persecution afterward.
And holy – That is, no one will be thus honored who has not an established character for holiness. Holy principles will then reign, and none will be exalted to that honor who have not a character for eminent sanctity.
That hath part in the first resurrection – That participated in it; that is, who is associated with those who are thus raised up.
On such the second death hath no power – The “second death” is properly the death which the wicked will experience in the world of woe. See Revelation 20:14. The meaning here is, that all who are here referred to as having part in the first resurrection will be secure against that. It will be one of the blessed privileges of heaven that there will be absolute security against death in any and every form; and when we think of what death is here, and still more when we think of “the bitter pains of the second death,” we may well call that state “blessed” in which there will be eternal exemption from either.
But they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him – notes at Revelation 1:6; Revelation 5:10.
Section b. – Condition of the world in the period referred to in Revelation 20:4-6.
I. It is well known that this passage is the principal one which is relied on by those who advocate the doctrine of the literal reign of Christ on the earth for a thousand years, or who hold what are called the doctrines of the “second advent.” The points which are maintained by those who advocate these views are substantially:
(a) that at that period Christ will descend from heaven to reign personally upon the earth;
(b) that he will have a central place of power and authority, probably Jerusalem;
(c) that the righteous dead will then be raised, in such bodies as are to be immortal;
(d) that they will be his attendants, and will participate with him in the government of the world;
(e) that this will continue during the period of a thousand years;
(f) that the world will be subdued and converted during this period, not by moral means, but by “a new dispensation” – by the power of the Son of God; and,
(g) that at the close of this period all the remaining dead will be raised, the judgment will take place, and the affairs of the earth will be consummated.
continued…”
14.) Rom 15:13, “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Now the God of hope,…. This character is taken from the latter part of Romans 15:12, and is occasioned by it, “in him shall the Gentiles trust”, or “hope”; and is proper to God as he is the author and giver of this grace; for naturally men are without it; that which is a good hope is the gift of God, and through his grace, and is wrought in the heart in regeneration; for to this are the children of God begotten again. Moreover, God is the object of it; not wealth and riches, nor works of righteousness, but Jehovah, Father, Son, and Spirit, particularly Christ, is called the believer’s hope; that is, the object of it, in whom the Gentiles hope and trust. Likewise, it is God that encourages to the exercise of it by the proclamations of his grace, and mercy, and plenteous redemption; by the discoveries of his love, and views of interest in him; and by bringing to mind the past experiences of his goodness: he preserves and maintains this grace useful and lively, firm and steadfast, at least in being, which sometimes seems almost perished and gone; he increases it, and causes his people to abound in the exercise of it, and continues it even unto death. The Ethiopic version reads, “the God of our promises”, which are what hope has respect unto, and builds upon:
fill you with all joy and peace in believing. This is a petition to the God of hope. The apostle has recourse again to prayer, knowing that all his exhortations would be useless, without the grace of God accompanying them: and it is observable, that he prays for the same things mentioned in the above prophecies and promises, as joy, peace, and hope; for though God has promised ever so great things concerning his people, he will be inquired of by them to do them for them. One part of this petition is, that God would “fill them with all joy”; not with every kind of joy; not with worldly joy, or with the joy of hypocrites, who rejoice in sin, or in their own boastings, which is evil; but with spiritual joy, joy in God as a covenant God and Father; in Christ, in his person, righteousness, and salvation; and in the Holy Ghost, the author of it, whose fruit it is; and in the Gospel, doctrines, blessings, and promises of it; and in the view and hope of the heavenly glory, amidst various afflictions and tribulations: and it designs an abundance of it, even a fulness thereof; though the petition implies, that as yet it is not full; it is frequently interrupted and broke in upon by the corruption of nature, and falls into sin, by the temptations of Satan, through divine desertions, and various trials and exercises; yet it supposes it may be increased, as by the renewed discoveries of the love of God, of interest in Christ, and through the gracious influences of the Spirit; and even made full and complete, though not in this, yet in the other world: another branch of the petition is, that God would fill with “peace”, with a sense of their peace with him, made by the blood of Christ; with a conscience peace in their own breasts, arising from a view of their justification by the righteousness of Christ, and from the sprinklings of his blood upon them; and also with peace one among another, which was much wanting, and the apostle was very desirous of: and all this he asks, that it might come to them “in believing”; in the way of faith, and the exercise of that grace; for joy comes this way; faith and joy go together; where one is, the other is also; and as the one increases, so does the other; a believing view of interest in Christ is attended with joy unspeakable, and full of glory: and so peace comes in at the door of faith: there is no true peace till a soul is brought to believe in Christ; and that is promoted and increased by repeated acts of faith on Christ, or by a constant living by faith on him; see Isaiah 26:3. The end for which this petition is made is,
that ye may abound in hope through the power of the Holy Ghost. By hope is meant that grace which God is the author, object, and promoter of; and the Syriac version reads it, “in his hope”, or “the hope of him”; of enjoying him, of meeting with him, and having communion with him in his house and ordinances; of having fresh supplies of grace from him, and of being favoured with all the blessings of grace laid up in an everlasting covenant, and at last with eternal life and glory: to “abound” herein, is to be in the free and frequent exercise of this grace, being encouraged by the grace of God, and an enlarged experience of it, and supported by faith, the substance of things hoped for: and this “through the power of the Holy Ghost”; not by might or power of man, but by that same divine power which first began the good work, and must fulfil it; which at first implanted the grace of hope, and must perform the work of that, as of faith. The same power is requisite to cause grace to abound, or saints to abound in the exercise of it, as was to the first production of it. The Vulgate Latin reads, “that ye may abound in hope, and in the power of the Holy Ghost”; but there is no copulative in the Greek text.”
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1.) Mat 5:3, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.”
2.). Mat 5:4, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”
3.) Mat 5:5, “Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth.”
4.). Mat 5:6, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.”
5.). Mat 5:7, “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.”
6.).Mat 5:8, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
7.) Mat 11:29, “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.”
8.) Mat 16:17, “Blessed are you, Simon Barjona, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in Heaven.”
9.) Mat 16:24, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.”
10.) Mat 19:26, “With people this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
11.) Mat 19:28, “Truly I say to you, that you who have followed Me, in the regeneration when the Son of Man will sit on His glorious throne, you also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.”
12.) Mat 20:19, “and will hand Him over to the Gentiles to mock and scourge and crucify Him, and on the third day He will be raised up.”
13.)Mat 20:28, “just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”
14.) Mat 21:22, “And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.”
15.)Mat 21:42, “Did you never read in the Scriptures, ‘THE STONE WHICH THE BUILDERS REJECTED, THIS BECAME THE CHIEF CORNER stone; THIS CAME ABOUT FROM THE LORD, AND IT IS MARVELOUS IN OUR EYES’?”
16.)Mat 22:21, “Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s; and to God the things that are God’s.”
17.)Mat 22:29, “You are mistaken, not understanding the Scriptures nor the power of God.”
18.)Mat 22:32, ‘I AM THE GOD OF ABRAHAM, AND THE GOD OF ISAAC, AND THE GOD OF JACOB’? He is not the God of the dead but of the living.”
19.) Mat 23:33, “You serpents, you brood of vipers, how will you escape the sentence of Hell?”
20.) Mat 24:4, “See to it that no one misleads you.”
21.)Mat 24:7, “For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and in many places there will be famines and earthquakes.”
22.)Mat 24:11, “Many false prophets will arise and will mislead many.”
23.)Mat 24:13, “But the one who endures to the end, he will be saved.”
24.). Mat 24:14, “This Gospel of the Kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.”
25.)Mat 24:24, “For false Christs and false prophets will arise and will show great signs and wonders, so as to mislead, if possible, even the elect.”
26.)Mat 24:30, “And then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the SON OF MAN COMING ON THE CLOUDS OF THE SKY with power and great glory.”
27.) Mat 24:33, “so, you too, when you see all these things, recognize that He is near, right at the door.”
28.)Mat 24:35, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My Words will not pass away.”
29.) Mat 24:38, “For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark,”
30.) Mat 24:42, “Therefore be on the alert, for you do not know which day your Lord is coming.”
31.) Mat 25:21, “His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your Master.’”
32.)Mat 25:30, “Throw out the worthless slave into the outer darkness; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”
33.) Mat 25:31, “But when the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, then He will sit on His glorious throne.”
34.) Mat 25:33, “and He will put the sheep on His right, and the goats on the left.”
35.)Mat 25:34, “Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.”
36.)Mat 25:40, “The King will answer and say to them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me.’
37.) Mat 25:41, ‘Depart from Me, accursed ones, into the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels.”
38.) Mat 25:46, “These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”
39.)Mat 26:28, “for this is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for forgiveness of sins.”
40.)Mat 26:41, “Keep watching and praying that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
41.) Mat 26:52, “Put your sword back into its place; for all those who take up the sword shall perish by the sword.”
42.) Mat 26:64, “You have said it yourself; nevertheless I tell you, hereafter you will see THE SON OF MAN SITTING AT THE RIGHT HAND OF POWER, and COMING ON THE CLOUDS OF HEAVEN.”
43.)Mat 28:18, “All authority has been given to Me in Heaven and on earth.”
44.)Mat 28:19, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit,”
45.) Mat 28:20, “teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the world.”
46.)Mar 1:15, “The time is fulfilled, and the Kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the Gospel.”
47.)Mar 2:10, “But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”
48.) Mar 2:17, “It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick; I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
49.) Mar 3:24, “If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand.”
50.)Mar 3:25, “If a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand.”
51.)Mar 3:29, “but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin”—
52.)Mar 3:35, “For whoever does the will of God, he is My brother and sister and mother.”
53.)Mar 4:9, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”
54.)Mar 4:19, “but the worries of the world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things enter in and choke the Word, and it becomes unfruitful.”
55.) Mar 4:25, “For whoever has, to him more shall be given; and whoever does not have, even what he has shall be taken away from him.”
56.)Mar 5:36, “Do not be afraid any longer, only believe.”
57.)Mar 6:4, “A prophet is not without honor except in his hometown and among his own relatives and in his own household.”
58.)Mar 7:6, “Rightly did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written: ‘THIS PEOPLE HONORS ME WITH THEIR LIPS, BUT THEIR HEART IS FAR AWAY FROM ME.”
59.) Mar 7:10, “For Moses said, ‘HONOR YOUR FATHER AND YOUR MOTHER’; and, ‘HE WHO SPEAKS EVIL OF FATHER OR MOTHER, IS TO BE PUT TO DEATH’;
60.) Mar 7:13, “thus invalidating the Word of God by your tradition which you have handed down; and you do many things such as that.”
61.)Mar 7:21, “For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed the evil thoughts, fornications, thefts, murders, adulteries,”
62.)Mar 9:44, [where THEIR WORM DOES NOT DIE, AND THE FIRE IS NOT QUENCHED.]
63.) Mar 10:6, “But from the beginning of creation, God MADE THEM MALE AND FEMALE.”
64.)Mar 10:11, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery against her;”
65.) Mar 10:14, “Permit the children to come to Me; do not hinder them; for the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”
66.).Mar 10:18, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good except God alone.”
67.) Mar 10:25, “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of God.”
68.) Mar 10:44, “and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be slave of all.”
69.)Mar 11:22, “Have faith in God.”
70.)Mar 11:26, [But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father who is in Heaven forgive your transgressions.”
71.) Mar 12:11, “THIS CAME ABOUT FROM THE LORD, AND IT IS MARVELOUS IN OUR EYES’?”
72.) Mar 12:17, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”
73.). Mar 12:30, “AND YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND, AND WITH ALL YOUR STRENGTH.’
74.) Mar 13:7, “When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be frightened; those things must take place; but that is not yet the end.”
75.) Mar 13:10, “The Gospel must first be preached to all the nations.”
76.) Mar 13:13, “You will be hated by all because of My name, but the one who endures to the end, he will be saved.”
77.)Mar 8:36, “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul?”
78.)Mar 8:38, “For whoever is ashamed of Me and My Words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.”
79.)Mar 9:23, “ ‘If You can?’ All things are possible to him who believes.”
80.)Mar 9:31, “The Son of Man is to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill Him; and when He has been killed, He will rise three days later.”
81.)Mar 9:35, “If anyone wants to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all.”
82.)Mar 9:40, “For he who is not against us is for us.”
83.)Mar 10:15, “Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the Kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all.”
84.) Mar 10:25, “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of God.”
85.)Mar 10:34, “They will mock Him and spit on Him, and scourge Him and kill Him, and three days later He will rise again.”rich man to enter the Kingdom of God.”
86.)Mar 10:27, “With people it is impossible, but not with God; for all things are possible with God.”
87.) Mar 11:22, “Have faith in God.”
88.) Mar 13:8, “For nation will rise up against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; there will be earthquakes in many places; there will also be famines. These things are merely the beginning of birth pangs.”
89.)Mar 13:31, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My Words will not pass away.”
90.)Mar 13:37, “What I say to you I say to all, ‘Be on the alert!’”
91.)Mar 14:38, “Keep watching and praying that you may not come into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
92.) Mar 16:16, “He who has believed and has been baptized shall be saved; but he who has disbelieved shall be condemned.”
93.)Luk 4:4, “It is written, ‘MAN SHALL NOT LIVE ON BREAD ALONE.’”
94.)Luk 5:27, “Follow Me.”
95.)Luk 5:32, “I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.”
96.)Luk 6:5, “The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.”
97.)Luk 6:21, “Blessed are you who hunger now, for you shall be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep now, for you shall laugh.”
98.)Luk 6:38, “Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, and running over. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return.”
99.)Luk 6:39, “A blind man cannot guide a blind man, can he? Will they not both fall into a pit?”
100.)Luk 6:40, “A pupil is not above his teacher; but everyone, after he has been fully trained, will be like his teacher.”
101.) Luk 6:41, “Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?”
102.)Luk 6:43, “For there is no good tree which produces bad fruit, nor, on the other hand, a bad tree which produces good fruit.”
103.)Luk 6:44, “For each tree is known by its own fruit. For men do not gather figs from thorns, nor do they pick grapes from a briar bush.”
104.)Luk 6:45, “The good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth what is good; and the evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth what is evil; for his mouth speaks from that which fills his heart.”
105.)Luk 6:46, “Why do you call Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?”
106.)Luk 7:22, “Go and report to John what you have seen and heard: the BLIND RECEIVE SIGHT, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, the POOR HAVE THE GOSPEL PREACHED TO THEM.”
107.)Luk 7:35, “Yet wisdom is vindicated by all her children.”
108.)Luk 8:17, “For nothing is hidden that will not become evident, nor anything secret that will not be known and come to light.”
109.)Luk 8:21, “My mother and My brothers are these who hear the Word of God and do it.”
110.)Luk 9:23, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me.”
111.) Luk 9:24, “For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake, he is the one who will save it.”
112.) Luk 9:62, “No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the Kingdom of God.”
113.)Luk 10:3, “Go; behold, I send you out as lambs in the midst of wolves.”
114.)Luk 10:16, “The one who listens to you listens to Me, and the one who rejects you rejects Me; and he who rejects Me rejects the One who sent Me.”
115.)Luk 10:20, “Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are recorded in Heaven.”
116.)Luk 10:22, “All things have been handed over to Me by My Father, and no one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son, and anyone to whom the Son wills to reveal Him.”
117.)Luk 10:42, “but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”
118.Luk 11:9, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.”
119.) Luk 11:23, “He who is not with Me is against Me; and he who does not gather with Me, scatters.”
120.) Luk 11:28, “On the contrary, blessed are those who hear the Word of God and observe it.”
121.) Luk 11:34, “The eye is the lamp of your body; when your eye is clear, your whole body also is full of light; but when it is bad, your body also is full of darkness.”
122.) Luk 12:2, “But there is nothing covered up that will not be revealed, and hidden that will not be known.”
123.) Luk 12:5, “But I will warn you whom to fear: fear the One who, after He has killed, has authority to cast into Hell; yes, I tell you, fear Him!”
124.) Luk 12:15, “Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions.”
125.) Luk 12:20, “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your soul is required of you; and now who will own what you have prepared?’”
126.) Luk 12:23, “For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing.”
127.) Luk 12:26, “If then you cannot do even a very little thing, why do you worry about other matters?”
128.) Luk 12:27, “Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; but I tell you, not even Solomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these.”
129.) Luk 12:32, “Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the Kingdom.”
130.) Luk 12:34, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
131.) Luk 12:35, “Be dressed in readiness, and keep your lamps lit.”
132.) Luk 13:3, “I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.”
133.) Luk 13:24, “Strive to enter through the narrow door; for many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able.”
134.) Luk 13:29, “And they will come from east and west and from north and south, and will recline at the table in the Kingdom of God.”
135.) Luk 14:11, “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”
136.) Luk 14:13, “But when you give a reception, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind.”
137.) Luk 14:27, “Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.”
138.) Luk 14:33, “So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions.”
139.) Luk 15:10, “In the same way, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
140.) Luk 15:18, ‘I will get up and go to my father, and will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against Heaven, and in your sight.”
141.) Luk 15:24, “for this son of mine was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.’ And they began to celebrate.”
142.) Luk 16:10, “He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much; and he who is unrighteous in a very little thing is unrighteous also in much.”
143.) Luk 16:13, “No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.”
144.) Luk 16:15, “You are those who justify yourselves in the sight of men, but God knows your hearts; for that which is highly esteemed among men is detestable in the sight of God.”
145.) Luk 16:31, “But he said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be persuaded even if someone rises from the dead.’”
146.) Luk 17:26, “And just as it happened in the days of Noah, so it will be also in the days of the Son of Man:”
147.) Luk 17:32, “Remember Lot’s wife.”
148.) Luk 17:33, “Whoever seeks to keep his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it.”
149.) Luk 18:27, “The things that are impossible with people are possible with God.”
150.) Luk 19:10, “For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.”
151.) Luk 19:46, “It is written, ‘AND MY HOUSE SHALL BE A HOUSE OF PRAYER,’ but you have made it a ROBBERS’ DEN.”
152.) Luk 20:25, “Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”
153.) Luk 20:38, “Now He is not the God of the dead but of the living; for all live to Him.”
154.) Luk 21:8, “See to it that you are not misled; for many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and, ‘The time is near.’ Do not go after them.”
155.) Luk 22:40, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation.”
156.) Luk 22:69, “But from now on THE SON OF MAN WILL BE SEATED AT THE RIGHT HAND of the power OF GOD.”
157.) Luk 23:34, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.”
158.) Luk 24:25, “O foolish men and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken!”
159.) Luk 24:39, “See My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself; touch Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.”
160.) Luk 24:46, “Thus it is written, that the Christ would suffer and rise again from the dead the third day,”
161.) Luk 24:49, “And behold, I am sending forth the promise of My Father upon you; but you are to stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.”
162.) Jhn 1:43, “Follow Me.”
163.) Jhn 3:3,“Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the Kingdom of God.”
164.) Jhn 3:5, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter into the Kingdom of God.”
165.) Jhn 3:6, “That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.”
166.) Jhn 3:7, “Do not be amazed that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’
167.) Jhn 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.”
168.) Jhn 3:18, “He who believes in Him is not judged; he who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.”
169.) Jhn 3:20, “For everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come to the Light for fear that his deeds will be exposed.”
170.) Jhn 3:21, “But he who practices the truth comes to the Light, so that his deeds may be manifested as having been wrought in God.’
171.) Jhn 4:14, “but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never thirst; but the water that I will give him will become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life.”
172.) Jhn 4:24, “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in Spirit and truth.”
173.) Jhn 4:34, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to accomplish His work.”
174.) Jhn 4:37, “For in this case the saying is true, ‘One sows and another reaps.’
175.) Jhn 5:6, “Do you wish to get well?”
176.) Jhn 5:17, “My Father is working until now, and I Myself am working.”
177.) Jhn 5:21, “For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son also gives life to whom He wishes.”
178.) Jhn 5:22, “For not even the Father judges anyone, but He has given all judgment to the Son.”
179.) Jhn 5:23, ”so that all will honor the Son even as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him.”
180.) Jhn 5:24, “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My Word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life.”
181.) Jhn 5:29, “and will come forth; those who did the good deeds to a resurrection of life, those who committed the evil deeds to a resurrection of judgment.”
182.) Jhn 5:30, “I can do nothing on My own initiative. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is just, because I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.”
183.) Jhn 6:12, “Gather up the leftover fragments so that nothing will be lost.”
184.) Jhn 6:29, “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent.”
185.) Jhn 6:35, “I AM the Bread of life; he who comes to Me will not hunger, and he who believes in Me will never thirst.”
186.) Jhn 6:37, “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will certainly not cast out.”
187.) Jhn 6:38, “For I have come down from Heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.”
188.) Jhn 6:40, “For this is the will of My Father, that everyone who beholds the Son and believes in Him will have eternal life, and I Myself will raise him up on the last day.”
189.) Jhn 6:47, “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes has eternal life.”
190.) Jhn 6:51, “I AM the living Bread that came down out of Heaven; if anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread also which I will give for the life of the world is My flesh.”
191.) Jhn 6:63, “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing; the Words that I have spoken to you are spirit and are life.”
192.) Jhn 7:7, “The world cannot hate you, but it hates Me because I testify of it, that its deeds are evil.”
193.) Jhn 7:17, “If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know of the teaching, whether it is of God or whether I speak from Myself.”
194.) Jhn 7:24, “Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.”
195.) Jhn 7:37, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink.”
196.) Jhn 8:58, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was born, I AM.”
197.) Jhn 9:5, “While I AM in the world, I AM the Light of the world.”
198.) Jhn 10:9, “I AM the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.”
199.) Jhn 10:11, “I AM the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.”
200.) Jhn 10:14, “I AM the good Shepherd, and I know My own and My own know Me,”
201.) Jhn 10:26, “But you do not believe because you are not of My sheep.”
202.) Jhn 10:27, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me;”
203.) Jhn 10:30, “I and the Father are ONE.”
204.) Jhn 11:9, “Are there not twelve hours in the day? If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world
205.) Jhn 11:25, “I AM the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies,”
206.) Jhn 11:40, “Did I not say to you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”
207.) Jhn 12:25, “He who loves his life loses it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it to life eternal.”
208.) Jhn 12:26, “If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.”
209.) Jhn 12:31, “Now judgment is upon this world; now the ruler of this world will be cast out.”
210.) Jhn 12:32, “And I, if I AM lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to Myself.”
211.) Jhn 12:36, “While you have the Light, believe in the Light, so that you may become sons of Light.”
212.) Jhn 12:44, “He who believes in Me, does not believe in Me but in Him who sent Me.”
213.) Jhn 12:45, “He who sees Me sees the One who sent Me.”
214.) Jhn 12:46, “I have come as Light into the world, so that everyone who believes in Me will not remain in darkness.”
215.) Jhn 12:48, “He who rejects Me and does not receive My sayings, has one who judges him; the Word I spoke is what will judge him at the last day.”
216.) Jhn 12:50, “I know that His commandment is eternal life; therefore the things I speak, I speak just as the Father has told Me.”
217.) Jhn 13:13, “You call Me Teacher and Lord; and you are right, for so I AM.”
218.) Jhn 13:15, “For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you.”
219.) Jhn 13:16, “Truly, truly, I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him.”
220.) Jhn 13:17, “If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.”
221.) Jhn 13:19, “From now on I am telling you before it comes to pass, so that when it does occur, you may believe that I AM He.”
222.) Jhn 13:20, “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who receives whomever I send receives Me; and he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me.”
223.) Jhn 13:34, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another.”
224.) Jhn 13:35, “By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”
225.) Jhn 14:1, “Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me.”
226.) Jhn 14:2, “In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you.”
227.) Jhn 14:3, “If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also.”
228.) Jhn 14:6, “I AM the Way, and the Truth, and the Life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.”
229.) Jhn 14:7, “If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; from now on you know Him, and have seen Him.”
230.) Jhn 14:10, “Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father is in Me? The Words that I say to you I do not speak on My own initiative, but the Father abiding in Me does His works.”
231.) Jhn 14:11, “Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me; otherwise believe because of the works themselves.”
232.) Jhn 14:13, “Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.”
233.) Jhn 14:15, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.”
234.) Jhn 14:16, “I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Comforter, that He may be with you forever;”
235.) Jhn 14:17, “that is the Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you.”
236.) Jhn 14:19, “After a little while the world will no longer see Me, but you will see Me; because I live, you will live also.”
237.) Jhn 14:20, “In that day you will know that I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you.”
238.) Jhn 14:21, “He who has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me; and he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and will disclose Myself to him.”
239.) Jhn 14:23, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My Word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our abode with him.”
240.) Jhn 14:26, “But the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you.”
241.) Jhn 14:27, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.”
242.) Jhn 15:1, “I AM the true Vine, and My Father is the vinedresser.”
243.) Jhn 15:3, “You are already clean because of the Word which I have spoken to you.”
244.) Jhn 15:4, “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me.”
245.) Jhn 15:5, “I AM the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.”
246.) Jhn 15:7, “If you abide in Me, and My Words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”
247.) Jhn 15:9, “Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love.”
248.) Jhn 15:10, “If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love.”
249.) Jhn 15:12, “This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.”
250.) Jhn 15:14, “You are My friends if you do what I command you.”
251.) Jhn 15:16, “You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you.”
252.) Jhn 15:17, “This I command you, that you love one another.”
253.) Jhn 15:20, “Remember the Word that I said to you, ‘A slave is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My Word, they will keep yours also.”
254.) Jhn 15:26, “When the Comforter comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, that is the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify about Me,”
255.) Jhn 16:12, “I have many more things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now.”
256.) Jhn 16:13, “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come.”
257.) Jhn 16:15, “All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said that He takes of Mine and will disclose it to you.”
258.) Jhn 16:20, “Truly, truly, I say to you, that you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice; you will grieve, but your grief will be turned into joy.”
259.) Jhn 16:23, “In that day you will not question Me about anything. Truly, truly, I say to you, if you ask the Father for anything in My name, He will give it to you.”
260.) Jhn 16:27, “for the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me and have believed that I came forth from the Father.”
261.) Jhn 16:28, “I came forth from the Father and have come into the world; I am leaving the world again and going to the Father.”
262.) Jhn 16:33, “These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.”
263.) Jhn 17:3, “This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.”
264.) Jhn 17:10, “and all things that are Mine are Yours, and Yours are Mine; and I have been glorified in them.”
265.) Jhn 17:14, “I have given them Your Word; and the world has hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.”
266.) Jhn 17:15, “I do not ask You to take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil one.”
267.) Jhn 17:16, “They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.”
268.) Jhn 17:17, “Sanctify them in the truth; Your Word is truth.”
269.) Jhn 17:18, “As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world.”
270.) Jhn 17:21, “that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me.”
271.) Jhn 17:21, “that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me.”
272.) Jhn 18:20, “I have spoken openly to the world; I always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where all the Jews come together; and I spoke nothing in secret.”
273.) Jhn 18:23, “If I have spoken wrongly, testify of the wrong; but if rightly, why do you strike Me?”
274.) Jhn 18:36, Jesus answered, “My Kingdom is not of this world. If My Kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting so that I would not be handed over to the Jews; but as it is, My Kingdom is not of this realm.”
275.) Jhn 18:37, Jesus answered, “You say correctly that I AM a King. For this I have been born, and for this I have come into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My Voice.”
276.) Jhn 19:11, “You would have no authority over Me, unless it had been given you from above; for this reason he who delivered Me to you has the greater sin.”
277.) Jhn 19:30, “It is finished!”
278.) Jhn 20:17, “Stop clinging to Me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to My brethren and say to them, ‘I ascend to My Father and your Father, and My God and your God.’”
279.) Jhn 20:27, “Reach here with your finger, and see My hands; and reach here your hand and put it into My side; and do not be unbelieving, but believing.”
280.) Jhn 20:29, “Because you have seen Me, have you believed? Blessed are they who did not see, and yet believed.”
281.) Act 1:8, “but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.”
282.) Act 18:9, “Do not be afraid any longer, but go on speaking and do not be silent;”
283.) Act 20:35, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
284.) Act 26:18, “to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in Me.’
285.) 2Co 12:9, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.”
286.) Rev 1:18, “and the Living One; and I was dead, and behold, I AM alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and of Hades.”
287.) Rev 2:5, ‘Therefore remember from where you have fallen, and repent and do the deeds you did at first; or else I am coming to you and will remove your lampstand out of its place—unless you repent.”
288.) Rev 2:7, ‘He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will grant to eat of the tree of life which is in the Paradise of God.’”
289.) Rev 2:17, ‘He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, to him I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, and a new name written on the stone which no one knows but he who receives it.’
290.) Rev 2:25, ‘Nevertheless what you have, hold fast until I come.”
291.) Rev 22:12, “Behold, I AM coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done.”
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This is the philosophy of life for all Christians. If you do not know how to live, and do not know what to do with your life; the Holy Bible tells you these are what you should do at all times. At all times means all the times.
1) . Call on God at all times.
Job 27:10, “Or will he take pleasure in the Almighty?
Will he call on God at all times?”
Do you know believers have the right and privilege to call on our Heavenly Father at all times?
Will he delight himself in the Almighty?…. That is, the hypocrite; no, he will not; he may seem to delight in, him, but he does not truly and sincerely; not in him as the Almighty, or in his omnipotence, into whose hands it is a fearful thing to fall, and who is able to destroy soul and body in hell; nor his omniscience, who, searches and knows the hearts of all men, and the insincerity of the hypocrite, covert to men soever he is; nor in his holiness, which at heart he loves not; nor in his ways and worship, word, ordinances, and people, though he makes a show of it, Isaiah 58:2;
will he always call upon God? God only is to be called upon, and it becomes all men to call upon him for all blessings, temporal and spiritual; and this should be done in faith, with fervency, in sincerity and uprightness of soul, and with constancy, always, at all times both of prosperity and adversity; but an hypocrite does not, and cannot call upon God in a sincere and spiritual manner; nor is he constant in this work, only by fits and starts, when it is for his worldly interest and external honour so to do. Now Job was one that delighted in God, was uneasy at his absence, longed for communion with him, sought earnestly after him, frequently and constantly called upon him, though he was wrongly charged with casting off the fear of God, and restraining prayer before him, and therefore no hypocrite. Some understand (f) all this as affirmed of the hypocrite, setting forth his present seeming state of happiness; as that he has a hope of divine favour, and of eternal felicity; has much peace and tranquillity of mind in life, and at death; is heard of God when trouble comes, and so gets out of it, and enjoys great prosperity; professes much delight and pleasure in God, and his ways, and is a constant caller upon him, and keeps close to the external duties of religion; and yet, notwithstanding all this, is in the issue, when death comes, exceeding miserable, as the following part of the chapter shows.”
Conciously for twice I called upon God when I was drowning and He saved me:
When I was a stupid boy with another boy went swimming in a lake of crocodiels when we did not know how to swim. When I was drowning, I physically shouted: Lord save me; not knowing one can pray with the heart and swallowed much water. This was the first time God saved me from drowning and not to be eaten by a crodile. The second time, was the son of a pastor who got my brother and I to a vast dry sea picking soft-shell crabs which was a totally new experience and new environment. The pastor’s boy unpon reflection not only did not inform us of the danger of the tide, he intently wanted to use the tide to drown us. Suddenly, water overflowing dry sea at flood tide high near my kneck, my angel was helping me to run in the water to the shore safely. So was my stupid brother. The pastor’s son did not report to his parents, we were too stupid and too polite to say anything. Unknowingly, I believe the good Lord has saved me many times. Another time, although I was a stupid boy not knowing how to swim, we went island hopping in a sampan. The first time I encounted so many mosquitoes in my life, and we could have drown and eaten by crocodiles. Parents, wathch out your stupid children. I hold the opinion, every child is born stupid except the baby Jesus, the Son of God.
His ways are always grievous;his whole course and carriage is vexatious to all that are within his reach, but especially to the poor, who cannot right themselves; and to just and good men, whom he hateth and persecuteth. Or, His ways, i.e. his designs and enterprises, at all times are prosperous, or successful, or do bring forth; for this verb signifies, as the pains and trouble, so also the success and comfort, of child-bearing, or the bringing forth children, as Psalm 29:9Isaiah 54:1Jeremiah 4:31. And the accomplishment or disappointment of designs is frequently expressed by this metaphor; of which see 2 Kings 19:23Psalm 7:14Isaiah 59:4, &c. And this sense seems best to suit with the context. Thy judgments; either, 1. Thy laws, which are oft called judgments. Or rather, 2. Thy threatenings denounced against and punishments inflicted upon sinners. Are far above out of his sight; either, 1. He doth not feel them; thou removest them far from him; which indulgence of thine is the cause of his insolency. Or rather, 2. He doth not discern, nor regard, nor fear them, nor think of them, but goes on securely and resolvedly in his wicked courses. He hath not so much faith nor reason as to apprehend or consider them, but, like a brute beast, looks only downward to the earth, and minds not things above him. And thus it seems best to agree with the foregoing and following clauses. His devices succeed, and therefore he neither fears God’s judgments, nor the power of his enemies, but fancies his happiness to be unchangeable, as it follows, Psalm 10:6. He puffeth at them, i.e. he despiseth them, being confident that he can blow them away with a breath. This is a gesture of contempt or disdain, both in Scripture, as Psalm 12:5Malachi 1:13, and in other authors, as in Plautus; where one speaks thus to a proud and bragging captain, Thou hast blown away whole legions with thy breath, as leaves are blown away by a wind.”
It is God’s ways that brought me any success in this world. I am eternally grateful for what my Heavenly Father has done for me. I used to envy children of families who had much better success factors than mine, but now as an old man I would not exchange my lifef with any of them.
3.) Bless the Lord at all times.
Psa 34:1, “A Psalm of David, when he pretended to be insane before Abimelech, who drove him away, and he departed.I will bless the LORD at all times;His praise shall continually be in my mouth.”
I will bless the Lord – I will praise him; I will be thankful for his mercies, and will always express my sense of his goodness.
At all times – In every situation of life; in every event that occurs. The idea is, that he would do it publicly and privately; in prosperity and in adversity; in safety and in danger; in joy and in sorrow. It would be a great principle of his life, expressive of the deep feeling of his soul, that God was always to be regarded as an object of adoration and praise.
His praise shall continually be in my mouth – I will be constantly uttering his praises; or, my thanks shall be unceasing. This expresses the “purpose” of the psalmist; and this is an indication of the nature of true piety. With a truly pious man the praise of God is constant; and it is an indication of true religion when a man is “disposed” always to bless God, whatever may occur. Irreligion, unbelief, scepticism, worldliness, false philosophy, murmur and complain under the trials and amidst the dark things of life; true religion, faith, love, spirituality of mind, Christian philosophy, see in God always an object of praise. People who have no real piety, but who make pretensions to it, are disposed to praise and bless God in times of sunshine and prosperity; true piety always regards him as worthy of praise – in the storm as well as in the sunshine; in the dark night of calamity, as well as in the bright days of prosperity. Compare Job 13:15.”
The good Lord had bestowed so many blessings on me which I was not worthy of. They remind me of the Scriptures:Rom 9:15, “For He says to Moses, “I WILL HAVE MERCY ON WHOMEVER I HAVE MERCY, AND
I WILL SHOW COMPASSION TO WHOMEVER I SHOW
COMPASSION.”
Rom 9:16, “So then, it does not depend on the person
who wants it nor the one who runs, but on God who has mercy.”
Unless the LORD builds a house, they who build it labor in vain;
Unless the LORD guards a city, the watchman stays awake in vain.”
4). Trust in God at all times.
Psa 62:8, “Trust in Him at all times, you people; Pour out your hearts before Him; God is a refuge for us. Selah.”
If you live to an advanced age, you will learn that no one is dependable. No one is trustworthy. ONLY God is trustworshu at all times. I had three trusted friends who became traitors. Remember, you enemies can never becoome your traitors.
Trust in him at all times, ye people,…. Of the house of Israel, as the Targum; or of God, as Aben Ezra; all that are Israelites indeed, and are the Lord’s covenant people; these are exhorted and encouraged to trust in him; not in a creature, nor in any outward thing, in riches, wisdom, strength, birth, privileges, the law, and the works of it; in their own righteousness, in their hearts, in themselves or in others; but in the Lord only, both for temporal and spiritual blessings: the Targum is, “in his Word”; his essential Word, by whom the world was made, and who, in the fulness of time, was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and who is a proper object of trust; in him should the people of God trust; in his person for acceptance with God, in his righteousness for justification, in his blood for pardon, in his grace for supply, and in his strength for support, deliverance, and salvation, and that “at all times”: there is no time excepted; there is not a moment in which the Lord is not to be trusted in: he is to be trusted in in adversity as well as in prosperity; in times of affliction, when he is present, and will not forsake; in times of temptation, when his grace is sufficient for them; and in times of darkness, when he will arise and appear unto them;
pour out your heart before him: as Hannah did, 1 Samuel 1:15; and as water is poured out, Lamentations 2:19; it means the desires of the heart, the complaints of the soul, the whole of their case which they should spread before the Lord, and make known unto him; see Psalm 102:1, title, and Psalm 142:2; the phrase denotes the abundance of the heart, and of its requests, and the freedom with which they should be made to the Lord; for through the blood and sacrifice of Christ a believer may come to the throne of grace with boldness and liberty, and there freely tell the Lord all his mind, and all that is in his heart;
God is a refuge for us; to whom the saints may have recourse in all their times of trouble, and where they find safety and plenty, Isaiah 33:16.
Blessed are they that keep judgment,…. Or “observe” (k) it; the righteous judgment of God on wicked men; by which he is known in his justice, holiness, truth, and faithfulness; and by which the inhabitants of the earth observing it, learn to do righteousness, as follows: or else it may intend the word of God, his laws, statutes, and ordinances, after called his judgments, Psalm 19:9, which should be observed and kept, as the rule of our actions, walk, and conversation.
And he that doeth righteousness at all times; continually believes in Christ for righteousness, and puts on that as his justifying righteousness; whereby he becomes righteous as he is, 1 John 3:7, and performs acts of righteousness from a principle of grace, as a fruit of regeneration, and an evidence of it, 1 John 2:29, that does it with right views, aims, and ends; not to be justified and saved by it, but because God requires it; and it is for his glory, and to testify subjection to him, and thankfulness for favours received from him. And this is to be done at all times; we should never be weary of well doing, but be always abounding in good works; and happy are those that will be found so doing, such are “blessed” persons: not that their blessedness lies in or arises from righteousness done by them; but this is descriptive of such that are blessed in Christ with the remission of sins, and his justifying righteousness. And these are the proper persons to show forth the mighty acts and praise of the Lord; they are most capable of it, and more likely to perform it with acceptance than any other; see Psalm 50:14.”
Ordinance in Hebrew ismišpāṭwhich means judgment; verdict; decicion; formal decree; law; rule; precept; canon; — which occurs 424 times in the Old Testament.
My soul breaketh for the longing,…. His heart was just ready to break, and his soul fainted; he was ready to die, through a vehement desire of enjoying the object longed for, after mentioned; “hope deferred makes the heart sick”, Proverbs 13:1; the phrase is expressive of the greatness, vehemence, and eagerness of his mind after the thing he desired, which follows:that it hath unto thy judgments at all times; not the judgments of God on wicked men, though these are desirable for the glorifying of his justice; nor his dark dispensations of providence, though good men cannot but desire and long for the time when these judgments shall be made manifest: but rather the righteous laws and precepts of God are designed, which he desired to have a more perfect knowledge of, and yield a more constant obedience unto; or, best of all, the doctrines of grace and righteousness, that should be more clearly revealed in the times of the Messiah; who was to set judgment in the earth, his Gospel; and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and glorify the justice of God; than which nothing was more earnestly and importunately wished and longed for by Old Testament saints; see Psalm 119:81.”
7). Love at all times.
Pro 17:17, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”
Verse 17. – A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. Some find a climax in the two clauses, and translate the last as Revised Version margin, “And is born as a brother for adversity,” the same person being meant in both members of the sentence. A real friend loves his friend in prosperity and adversity; yea, he is more than a friend in time of need – he is a brother, as affectionate and as trusty as one connected by the closest ties of relationship (comp. Proverbs 18:24). Siracides gives a very cruel version of this proverb, “A friend cannot be known in prosperity; and an enemy cannot be hidden in adversity. In the prosperity of a man enemies will be grieved; but in his adversity even a friend will depart” (Ecclus. 12:8, etc.). Cicero had a truer notion of the stability of friendship when he quoted Ennius’s dictum, “Amicus certus in re incerta cernitur” (‘De Amicit.,’ 17.). Misfortune, says our maxim, is the touchstone of friendship; and one Greek gnome enjoins – Ἰδίας νόμιζε τῶν φίλων τὰς συμφοράς “Thy friend’s misfortunes deem to be thine own;” while another runs – Κρίνει φίλους ὁ καιρὸς ὥς χρυσὸν τὸ πῦρ. “The crisis tests a friend, as fire the gold.” Septuagint, “Have thou a friend forevery crisis, and let brethren be useful in adversities; for for this they are made.” Commenting on the expression, “is born,” Wordsworth fancifully remarks, “Adversity brings him forth. He comes, as it were, out of the womb of calamity, and seems to be born for it.” Proverbs 17:17,”
8. ) Pray at all times and not become discouraged.
Luk 18:1, “Now He was telling them a parable to show that at all times they ought to pray and not become discouraged.”
And he spoke a parable unto them,…. To his own disciples, as the Ethiopic version reads, in order to encourage them to prayer, with perseverance in it; since such sore times of trial and affliction were coming upon the Jews, of which he had spoken in the preceding chapter; and such times more especially call for prayer; see Psalm 50:15to this end, that men ought always to pray. This is opposed to them, who pray not at all, or have left off prayer before God, or who pray only in distress; and suggests, that a man should pray as often as he has an opportunity; should be constant and assiduous at the throne of grace, and continue putting up his requests to God, though he does not presently return an answer:
and not to faint; by reason of afflictions, temptations, desertions, and delays in answering prayer; and prayer itself is an admirable antidote against fainting under afflictive providences: it is with the Jews an affirmative precept that a man should pray, , “every day” (k); it was usual with them to pray three times a day; see Psalm 55:17 there is no set time fixed by Christ; men should be always praying. This is not to be understood, that a man should be always actually engaged in the work of prayer; that he should be continually either in his closet, in private devotion to God, or attending exercises of more public prayer, with the saints; for there are other religious exercises to be performed, besides prayer; and besides, there are many civil affairs of life, it is every man’s indispensable duty to regard: nor does our Lord mean in the least to break in upon, or interrupt the natural and civil duties of life; but his meaning is, that a man should persevere in prayer, and not leave off, or be dejected, because he has not an immediate answer; and this is clear from the following case.”
9). Pray that you will have strength to escape.
Luk 21:36, “But stay alert at all times, praying that you will have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
Watch ye therefore, and pray always,…. Watch against every sin, snare, and temptation; particularly, against the above things, surfeiting, drunkenness, and worldly cares; pray continually, for fresh supplies of grace: that ye may be counted worthy; not for watchfulness and prayer, but through the grace and goodness of God: to escape all these things that shall come to pass; the dreadful miseries and distress, that shall come upon the Jews:
and to stand before the Son of man; with intrepidity, confidence, and pleasure; and meet him at his coming in this way, with joy and comfort; and likewise at death, and at judgment; see 1 John 2:28.”
10.) Pray at all times in the Spirit.
Eph 6:18, “With every prayer and request, pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be alert with all perseverance and every request for all
18. praying always] Lit., praying on every occasion, every incident of life, especially every incident of temptation. Cp. the yet broader and deeper precept, 1 Thessalonians 5:17, “pray without intermission.” See too Luke 18:1; Php 4:6; Colossians 1:3; Colossians 1:9; Colossians 4:2. The attitude of the believer’s mind is to be one of perpetual prayer, in the sense of continuously maintaining a trustful and humble reference of all parts of life to his Lord’s will and grace. This will express itself in acts, if only momentary and wholly internal acts, of adoration and petition at each felt crisis of need. See Hebrews 4:16. with] Lit., by means of; the expressions being the instruments of the spiritual state. all prayer and supplication] “All:”—every variety; deliberate, ejaculatory; public, private, secret; confessing, asking, praising. Or again, more simply, with a full, not partial and stubborn, employment of the privilege and resource of prayer. “Prayer” is the larger word, “supplication” the more definite. The former includes the whole attitude and action of the creature’s approach to God; the latter denotes only petition. “Prayer,” however, is very often used in this narrower sense. See out of many passages Matthew 5:44; Luke 22:40.—The two words occur together, as here, Php 4:6; 1 Timothy 2:1; 1 Timothy 5:5. in the Spirit] So also R. V. Lit., “in spirit;” but see last note on Ephesians 2:22 above.—The Holy Spirit was to be “the Place” of the prayer, in the sense of being the surrounding, penetrating, transforming atmosphere of the spirit of the praying Christian. Cp. Zechariah 12:10; Romans 8:26; Judges 20. watching] Keeping awake. The Gr. word occurs also Mark 13:33; Luke 21:36; Hebrews 13:17. There was to be no indolent, somnolent oblivion of the need of prayer, or of the fact of offered prayer. For similar precepts (with another Gr. word) see Matthew 26:41; Colossians 4:2; 1 Peter 4:7. with all perseverance] Lit., in (as R. V.).—“All:”—that is, “full,” “utmost;” so “all faith” (1 Corinthians 13:2).—For a close parallel to the thought see Romans 12:12; where lit., “in the (matter of) prayer, persevering.” Our Lord’s parable (Luke 18:1, &c.), makes it plain that persistency as well as trust has a mysterious value in the efficacy of prayer. supplication] “All supplication;” the “all” being implied from the previous words. “All:”—with the full particularity and thoughtfulness proper to faithful intercessions. for all saints] Lit., for all the saints. With a noble abruptness the thought, long detained upon the combat and resources of the individual, and of the single community, now runs out to the great circle of the Church. The inner connexion of ideas is close and strong. The Christian cannot really arm himself with Christ, and use his armour, without getting nearer in sympathy to the brotherhood of the saints of Christ. Cp. 1 Peter 5:9 for the same connexion otherwise indicated. “Saints:”—see on Ephesians 1:1 above.”
11.) Fear sin and its consequences at all times.
Pro 28:14, “Blessed and favored by God is the man who fears sin and its consequence at all times, but he who hardens his heart and is determined to sin will fall into disaster.”
Verse 14. – Happy is the man that feareth alway. Some have taken the fear mentioned to be the fear with which God is to be regarded. Thus Aben Ezra. But it is rather the fear of sin which is meant – that tender conscience and watchful heart which lead a man robe prepared for temptation and able to resist it when it arises. Such a one distrusts himself, takes heed lest he fall (1 Corinthians 10:12), and works out his salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12; comp. Proverbs 14:16). “Grow not thoughtless of retribution” (‘Pirke Aboth,’ 1:8). A horror of sin cannot be instilled too early into the young. Septuagint, “Happy is the man who piously (δἰ εὐλάβειαν) fears all things.” St. Bernard (‘In Cant. Serm.,’ 54:9),” In veritate didici, nil aeque efficax esse ad gratiam promerendam, retinendam, recuperandam, quam si omni tempore coram Deo inveniaris non altum sapere, sed timere. Time ergo cum arriserit gratia, time cum abierit, time cum denuo revertetur; et hoc est semper pavidum esse.” He that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief; or, calamity (Proverbs 17:20). A man hardens his heart who attends not to the voice of conscience, the restraints of religion, the counsel of friends, the warnings of experience (comp. ver. 26; Proverbs 29:1; Exodus 8:15; Psalm 95:8). This man scorns the grace of God, loses his protection, and must come to misery. Proverbs 28:14.”
12.) Let your speech at all times be gracious and pleasant.
Col 4:6, “Let your speech at all times be gracious and
pleasant, seasoned with salt, so that you will know how to answer each one who questions you.”
6. your speech] Talking, discourse. The precept here may well be applied to the Christian’s whole use of the tongue (see Ephesians 4:29). But the context gives it a special reference, surely, to his discourse about the Gospel with those “without.” alway] Observe the characteristic absoluteness of the Christian precept. with grace] Lit., in grace. See above, on Colossians 3:16. Lightfoot explains, “with acceptance, pleasingness”; and quotes from the Greek of Psalms 44 :(Heb. and Eng. 45)2; Sir 21:16. But would not this be a unique, and so unlikely, use of the word in St Paul? seasoned with salt] which they were (Mark 9:50) to “have in themselves.” The reference of the metaphor is fixed by the practical parallel, Ephesians 4:29; “corrupt, decayed, discourse.” The “salt” is the power of Christ’s grace, banishing all impurity of motive, and all uncleanness of allusion, and at the same time giving the pleasant “savour” of sound and nourishing “food for thought.”—The classics, Latin and (less commonly) Greek, use the “salt” of speech as a metaphor; but almost always in the sense of wit, pleasantry, often of the very kind censured Ephesians 5:4. Seneca speaks of “poisoned salt,” venenati sales, meaning malicious jests.—“Seasoned &c.” here is constructed in the Greek with “speech.” that you may know] As those will who, in the grace of God, remember this sound rule of discourse. to answer every man] “who asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15), in whatever spirit. The thought is, surely, not so much of cleverly adjusted repartee, as of the clear, kindly candour and good sense which would so state the truth of Christ, in the “answer,” as to meet any and every questioner with conciliation.”
13.) May the Lord grant you His peace at all times.
2Th 3:16, “Now may the Lord of peace Himself grant you His peace at all times and in every way that peace and spiritual well-being that comes to those who walk with Him, regardless of life’s circumstances. The Lord be with you all.”
Conclusion of the Letter. Ch. 2 Thessalonians 3:16-1816. Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means] Lit., But may the Lord, &c.; for there is a contrast between the directions just given and the peace for which the Apostle prays. Peace was disturbed by an irritating kind of disorder in the Church, by wild rumours and alarms respecting the Parousia (ch. 2 Thessalonians 2:1-2), as well as by the unrelenting persecution from without. St Paul has done his best to tranquillize his readers’ minds, and bring them all to a sober and orderly condition. But he looks to “the Lord of peace Himself” to shed on them His all-controlling and all-reconciling influence. Christ is invoked as the Lord of peace (comp. 2 Thessalonians 3:5), just as God was called “the God of peace” in 1 Thessalonians 5:23 (see note; and on the import of “peace” in St Paul, note to 1 Thessalonians 1:1). Christ is Lord and Disposer of the peace which the Gospel brings (comp. Colossians 3:15, R.V.). This St Paul asks, first (ch. 2 Thessalonians 1:2) and last, for the troubled and harassed Thessalonians. “Always” represents a different Greek adverb from that so often used in these letters (1 Thessalonians 1:2, &c.); it denotes not on every occasion, but through all,—“continually,” as the same adverb is rendered in Luke 24:53, Hebrews 13:15 : the Lord … give you peace at all times in all ways (R.V.). Nor is it the Lord’s sovereign peace alone, but the Lord Himself, in His personal presence and authority (comp. Matthew 28:18; Matthew 28:20), Whom the Apostle invokes. The Lord be with you all, as in 2 Thessalonians 3:18,—not excluding the “brother walking disorderly,” who even more than others needs the presence of the Lord and the virtue of His peace. Comp. 1 Corinthians 16:24, 2 Corinthians 13:14, where the “all” of the Benediction has a like pointed significance; also note on 1 Thessalonians 5:27.”
14.) Let us at all times offer up to God a sacrifice of praise.
Heb 13:15, “Through Him, therefore, let us at all times offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, which is the fruit of lips that thankfully acknowledge and confess and glorify His name.”
By him, therefore – The Jews approached God by the blood of the sacrifice and by the ministry of their high priest. The exhortation of the apostle here is founded on the general course of argument in the Epistle “In view of all the considerations presented respecting the Christian High Priest – his dignity, purity, and love; his sacrifice and his intercession, let us persevere in offering through him praise to God.” That is, let us persevere in adherence to our religion.
The sacrifice of praise – For all the mercies of redemption. The Jews, says Rosenmuller (Alte u. neue Morgenland, in loc.), had a species of offerings which they called “peace-offerings, or friendship-offerings.” They were designed not to produce peace or friendship with God, but to preserve it. Burnt-offerings, sin-offerings, and trespass-offerings, were all on account of transgression, and were designed to remove transgression. But in their peace-offerings, the offerer was regarded as one who stood in the relation of a friend with God, and the oblation was a sign of thankful acknowledgment for favors received. or they were connected with vows in order that further blessings might be obtained, or they were brought voluntarily as a means to continue themselves in the friendship and favor of God; Leviticus 7:11-12; compare Jenning’s Jew. Ant. i.335.
That is, the fruit of our lips – The phrase “fruit of the lips.” is a Hebraism, meaning what the lips produce; that is, words; compare Proverbs 18:20; Hosea 14:2.
Giving thanks to his name – To God; the name of one being often put for the person himself. “Praise” now is one of the great duties of the redeemed. It will be their employment forever.”
15.) Be alert and cautious at all times.
1Pe 5:8, “Be sober, be alert and cautious at all times. That enemy of yours, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion , seeking someone to devour.”
Verse 8. – Be sober, be vigilant (comp. 1 Thessalonians 5:6). For the first word, νήψατε, see note on 1 Peter 4:7. The second γρηγόρησατε, is the word so often and so emphatically used by our Lord (Mark 13:35, 37; Matthew 26:40, 41, etc.). The imperatives are aorist, as in 1 Peter 4:7; and, as there, either imply that the exhortation was needed by the readers, or are used to express vividly the necessity of instant attention. Because your adversary the devil. The conjunction “because” is omitted in the best manuscripts. The asyndeten, as in the last clause, increases the emphasis. The word rendered “adversary” ἀντίδικος means properly an opponent in a lawsuit, as in Matthew 5:25; but it is also used generally for “adversary,” and so is a translation of the Hebrew word Satan. The word διάβολος, devil, means “slanderer,” “false accuser.” As a roaring lion. He is called a serpent to denote his subtlety, a lion to express his fierceness and strength. The word rendered “roaring” ὠρυόμενος is used especially of the cries of wild beasts when ravenous with hunger (see Psalm 104:21; and comp. Psalm 22:13, 21). Walketh about, seeking whom he may devour (comp. Job 1:7; Job 2:2). The words express the restless energy of the wicked one. He cannot touch those who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation; but he walketh about, looking eagerly after any lost sheep that may have wandered from the fold. He roars in the craving of his heart for prey, like a hungry lion, seeking whom he may devour, or (for the reading here is somewhat uncertain) to devour some one, or simply to devour. The Greek word means literally “to drink down;” it implies utter destruction. It is the word in 1 Corinthians 15:54, “Death is swallowed up κατεπόθη in victory.” Satan now seeks whom he may destroy: “The Lord will destroy him that hath the power of death, that is, the devil” (Hebrews 2:14). 1 Peter 5:8.”
THE WORST OF ALL ARE THOSE WHO HAVE NO CAUTION FOR BEING THROWN INTO THE LAKE OF FIRE. YOU CAN AVOID THE ETERNAL SUFFERINGS BY SIMPLY REPENT OF YOUR SINS AND BELIEVE IN THE LORD JESUS AS YOUR GOD AND SAVIOR. DO IT NOW WHILE YOU CAN.
To know the truth is not enough, you must act upon it.
Will you now accept and believe in the Son of God, Jesus Christ, to be your Lord and Savior. Now is the accepted time. Now is the day of salvation. Would you do it now?
