Bible commentary and Bible study material - welcome to my "Bible blog"!

Who are the "many" of Luke 13:24?

2008-07-15T18:40:00.000-07:00

Here is the context: Jesus has been explaining what the kingdom of Heaven is like. Then one asks, "Lord, are there few that will be saved?" Jesus responds by saying, "Strive to enter in at the strait gate, for many, I say unto you will seek to enter in, and shall not be able."

Ask yourself, who seeks to enter into Heaven? Answer: religious people! That is, Jesus says that many religious people will seek to enter into Heaven but will not be able.

Who are these religious people seeking to enter into Heaven but will be unable to do so? Letting the Bible interpret itself, we find the answer in Matthew 7:21. In this verse, Jesus makes it very clear that all who do the will of the Heavenly Father will enter into Heaven. That is, the failure of anyone to go to Heaven will be because of their failure to, "do the will of the Father which is in Heaven." To answer the above question, the "many" who are seeking to enter into Heaven but will not be able to do so, are the religious people who are not doing the will of God. In other words, it takes more that just being religious to be saved.

In Matthew 7:22, Jesus gives us a picture of Judgment Day, saying that many religious people will argue that they spent their lives "doing many wonderful works, prophesying, and casting out demons, all in His Name! Yet, He will say to them, "Depart from Me, ye workers of iniquity, I never knew you." (Matthew 7:23). Since Jesus had just said, all who do the Father's will, will go to Heaven, then even though these people were devoutly religious people, what they were doing was not according to God's will, His Word.

It is important that souls strive according to His Will, and not according to the will of any group of men who meet to decide what "their church" will believe, accept, and how it will worship. -- Toby Miller

Get a FREE on-line Romans Bible commentary at http://www.abiblecommentary.com. You may also order this commentary in book form for just $14.95 (it is a great addition to your library, or an ideal gift for friends, a special Bible class teacher or a cherished minister. The next commentary for release will be First Corinthians and we expect that will be out soon!

A sermon on stealing (theft)

2008-07-14T05:53:00.000-07:00

OUR WORLD IS FULL OF THEFT. A LITTLE TIME WATCHING FOX NEWS, CNN, OR READING USA TODAY LEAVES US WITH ILLUSTRATIONS OF THEFT NEARLY EVERY DAY.

a) Consider the story recorded in 1 Kgs. 3.
b) At this time Solomon was king; he had asked God to give him a “wise and understanding heart.”
2) The Bible says two women who were harlots came to see him (1 Kgs. 3:16).
a) Both had babies that were born about the same time. One of the children died.
b) Verse 19 – READ
c) Both women appeared before Solomon and made the same basic claim.
d) One woman was the real mother and the other was a baby thief.
3) This type of things is still going on today—people try to steal children.
4) Another fascinating story involving theft is found in Judg. 17.
a) Here we read about a man named Micah.
b) This man stole from his mother—he stole quite a bit of money from mom.
5) He did finally confessed the theft and returned the money.
6) A son stole from his mother. Do people today steal from their relatives?
7) Theft has also been a problem between employer and employee.
a) Jesus gave an example of this in Lk. 16.
b) Verse 3- READ
8) This employee stole quite a few assets from his boss before he was terminated.
9) Verses 5-7 – READ
a) By reducing the amount of debt that people had, this man gained favor with his master’s suppliers.
b) He got favoritism by theft.
10) Others steal from their employers by an improper use of time.
11) What would we say about a man who is paid for 8 hours a day but he only works 6?
12) When we think of people who steal and commit theft, we may think of the unsaved.
13) Mt. 21.
14) Verse 12 – READ
15) Verse 13 – READ
16) The temple was to be a place of worship; a place of prayer.
a) People who sold animals for sacrifice had turned the process into a money making venture.
17) This type of thing may be legal, but it hardly moral.
18) Today when people are not fair when they deal with others, they commit a form of theft.
a) Christians want, therefore, to be fair with all people.
b) We want to be just in our business dealings with others.
19) Religious people can commit robbery in other ways as well.
a) We can rob God.
b) There are those who have talents that could be used for God, but some say “I will keep my talents for myself.”
c) Another may have some time that could be dedicated to God, but that time is spent elsewhere.
d) Others may have money that could be devoted to the kingdom of God, but it is put somewhere else.
20) In Mal. 3:8 a prophet asked some people, “Will a man rob God”?
21) God’s prophet said in verse 9: “Ye are cursed.”
22) Are we also guilty of theft – either towards our fellow man or towards God?
23) We do not want to be someone that God classifies as a thief.
24) God went on to say (Mal. 3:10) that we are to bring to Him what we have.

Get a FREE on-line Romans commentary at http://www.abiblecommentary.com. You may also order this commentary in book form for just $14.95 (it is a great addition to your library, or an ideal gift for friends, a special Bible class teacher or a cherished minister. The next commentary for release will be First Corinthians and we expect that will be out soon!

Going back to the Bible

2008-07-12T10:15:00.000-07:00

In his book "The Normal Church Life," (An Exposition of the First Epistle of John), P.G. Mathew states, the book of First John deals with four main themes: (1) orthodox doctrine (2) practical personal holiness, (3) the Christian community life of love, and (4) the assurance of Salvation.

This epistle flies in the face of today's secular society because our secular culture hates uncompromising imperatives. Our society has an absolute commitment to moral and philosophical relativism. The surprising thing is that today's churches have become like-minded. Few churches preach orthodox doctrine; even fewer require practical holiness. We hear very little today of sin, repentance, holiness, judgment, or hell. The prevalent view is that mere mental assent to the facts of the gospel constitutes salvation, so that one can accept Jesus as Savior yet continue to live in sin and still expect to be saved! Any call to obedience is labeled as legalism. "Carnal Christianity" has become the norm.

John writes with authority and clarity: "This is love for God: to obey His commands" (1John 5:1, 3). Unlike the "carnal Christian," the one who is born of God will believe sound doctrine, will live to please God and the brethren, and, thus, will enjoy assurance of salvation.

To say you "know God" (1John 2:4), and have fellowship with Him (1John 1:3), yet not obey Him or grow in holiness, is patent, self-refuting nonsense. If you do not walk in the light of Jesus, you are walking in darkness. If that be the case, you are not living according to the truth (1John 1:6), you are lost because only the truth can set you free (John 8:32), and you have no fellowship at all with God because "in Him is no darkness at all" (1John 1:5). If you claim otherwise, you are deceiving yourself (1John 1:8), and accusing God of being a liar (1John 1:10), and accusing God of being a liar is to put Him under the authority of Satan (John 8:44). Do you think Jesus will save you if you call His Father a liar? Isn't it time to go back to the BOOK. -- Toby Miller

Get a FREE on-line Romans commentary at http://www.abiblecommentary.com. You may also order this commentary in book form for just $14.95 (it is a great addition to your library, or an ideal gift for friends, a special Bible class teacher or a cherished minister. The next commentary for release will be First Corinthians and we expect that will be out soon!

Understanding the Bible alike

2008-07-08T04:29:00.000-07:00

In Genesis 11:1-9, we learn that the whole world spoke the same language. This gave the people power to accomplish great things. They decided to build a tower that would reach into the heavens. This was unpleasing to God, so He thwarted their efforts and stifled the project. How did He do it? by "confusing their language" (Genesis 11:7).

Satan learned a lesson that day that would prove to be invaluable to him. What did he learn? He learned that by confusing the language of people, their power is greatly diminished.

Even today, Satan continues to steal the overall power of "Christendom" by causing believers to speak a multitude of different languages. Disunity is one of the greatest thieves in the religious world.

Jesus Himself prayed that all who believe on Him through the inspired apostles' word (the New Testament), would be "one" (John 17:20-21). Once Jesus prayed this prayer, Satan set out immediately to divide the people of God.

Paul warned the people against division telling them to "speak the same thing, be perfectly joined together, and be of the same mind and same judgment" (1Corinthians 1:10). He reveals that this can only be done by "not exceeding that which is written" (1Corinthians 4:6). However, Satan has convinced a vast majority that we cannot all understand the Bible alike.

Friends, we either understand the Bible alike, or someone is misunderstanding it. There is a way to know you are understanding God's Word in the way He intended, and that is to understand every verse in such a way so as not to contradict any other verse. If all Bible teachers would do this, we would have unity; and if we had unity, we would have power; power to glorify the Judge of all the earth.

Get a FREE on-line Bible commentary for the book of Romans at http://www.abiblecommentary.com. You may also order this commentary in book form for just $14.95 (it is a great addition to your library, or an ideal gift for friends, a special Bible class teacher or a cherished minister. The next commentary for release will be First Corinthians and we expect that will be out soon!

The "law of Christ" and the "law of God"

2008-07-07T18:53:00.000-07:00

The New Testament is a body of doctrine called, "The Law of the spirit of Life in Christ" (Romans 8:2). It is also referred to as, "The Law of Faith" (Romans 3:27), "The Perfect Law of Liberty" (James 1:25), and "The Law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2).

By definition, the word "law" means, "a rule of conduct enforced by a controlling authority," or, "An order that is obligatory to observe."

All law contains a penalty for violation or it isn't a genuine law. That is, if there is no penalty for disobeying the Law of Christ, then there is no such thing as the Law of Christ.

Believers understand that there is a law of Christ. It is the highest law known to man. The Law of Christ is the most exalted, and the most elevated actuality in existence. Therefore, it stands to reason that the "penalty" for turning your back on such a law must extract the most elevated of punishments.

For those who trust and obey, the penalty has been paid by Jesus Christ (cf. Hebrews 5:9), but what about those who do not trust and obey? They must pay the penalty themselves. The penalty for sin is death (Romans 6:23), eternal death (Matthew 25:46).

Jesus did not speak of eternal damnation, everlasting punishment and of a place where the "fire is never quenched" just to scare people, but to set forth a reality and truth. Jesus did not warn against the subtlety of false teachers (Matthew 7:15; 2Corinthians 11:13-15), just to confuse people, but rather to warn those whom He loves. Jesus knows what Hell is like. He was involved in the creation of it (John 1:3; Matthew 25:41). That's why He "...desires none to perish..." (2Peter 3:9).

The claim made by the majority that one can believe, worship, and live any life style he chooses just as long as he is sincere, and still go to Heaven, violates the whole theme of commitment to God (Luke 9:23; Luke 14:33). If God allows His eternal law (Mark 13:31), to be violated without an eternal penalty (Revelation 21:8), then the Bible is false and the whole concept of religion is futile.

The point is, one's attitude toward obeying the whole New Testament Law determines whether or not one is a genuine believer (John 14:15). -- Toby Miller

Get a FREE on-line Romans commentary at http://www.abiblecommentary.com. You may also order this commentary in book form for just $14.95 (it is a great addition to your library, or an ideal gift for friends, a special Bible class teacher or a cherished minister. The next commentary for release will be First Corinthians and we expect that will be out soon!

Will God destroy and punish people?

2008-07-05T16:23:00.000-07:00

Would God condemn the whole human race and the earth itself just because a man ate a piece of forbidden fruit? (Genesis 3:17-19).

Would God flood the entire earth, destroying over 70 million men, women and children, just because they refused to acknowledge Him as God? (Genesis chapters 6-9).

Would God destroy two of the High Priest's sons just because they obtained fire to burn the incense from a source that He had not specified? (Leviticus 10:1-3).

Would God destroy a man just because he violated a single command, even though the act was one of national heroism? (2Samuel 6:6-7)

Would God slay a man and his wife just because they insinuated they were giving more to the church than what they really gave? (Acts 5:1-11).

Would God cast angels out of Heaven just because they exceeded the limits of the bounds He had placed on them? (2Peter 2:4; Jude 6).

Would God cause a king to be eaten with worms from the inside out just because the king failed to give Him the glory? (Acts 12:20-24).

Would God reap vengeance on every man and woman just because they did not know, or did not obey the Gospel of Jesus Christ? (2Thessalonians 1:7-9).

Jesus Christ is the only reason God is withholding His anger (1John 2:2). Those who turn their back on the Truth, are "treasuring up for themselves the wrath of God in the day of Judgment" (Romans 2:5-8). -- Toby Miller

Get a FREE on-line Romans commentary at http://www.abiblecommentary.com. You may also order this commentary in book form for just $14.95 (it is a great addition to your library, or an ideal gift for friends, a special Bible class teacher or a cherished minister. The next commentary for release will be First Corinthians and we expect that will be out soon!

hamartia - a new testament word for sin

2008-07-03T20:05:00.000-07:00

1) How do we know if an action is “moral” or “immoral?”
2) How can we determine if something is “right” or “wrong?” We must use a standard.
3) There is an important word in the New Testament that is used many, many times - hamartia
4) At least 175 times this word is found in the 27 books of the New Testament and it is translated “sin.”
5) By using the word “sin” Bible translators were trying to convey the idea of “missing the mark.”
6) We may be immoral because we fail to do all we should (we do not put in enough effort to reach the goal).
7) We may also choose miss the mark (sin) because we choose the wrong thing.
8)
OUR STUDY STARTS WITH MATTHEW 1:21.

a) Mt. 1:21 tells us that immorality is a very serious problem.
b) The Lord is to save people who are immoral.

2) If someone asked us: “Are you immoral,” we might be tempted to say “no.”
3) Our definition of immorality may not be the same definition used by God.
4) If we have somehow missed the mark (just one time), we are guilty of sin and we need Christ.
5) Mt. 3:6.
a) Mt. 12:31 – READ
6) What did Jesus say in this verse? “ALL MANNER” (types) of sin (immorality) can be forgiven.
a) Refusing the Father meant the people still had someone to listen to (the Son of God).
b) Rejecting the Son of God meant there was still someone to listen to (the Holy Spirit).
c) If the Holy Spirit was rejected, there was not going to be any else.
d) The Godhead has only three members; reject each one and a person has no hope.
7) Mt. 26:28 is often read before we have the Lord's Supper.
a) Jesus said His blood was being shed for the “remission of sins.”
b) Here is our special word translated “sin.”
c) Jesus’ blood was shed for man’s immorality.
8) Next on our list is Lk. 7:47.
a) He said she had “many sins.”
b) Imagine the Lord saying to someone “Here is a very immoral person.”
c) Jesus said in Jn. 8:21 that people will “die” in their sin unless they accept His remedy.
d) How immoral does a person need to be before they should die?
9) To start “hitting the target” if you will, we need to believe in Jesus Christ – Jn. 8:24 – READ
10) God wants the world to know about sin (immorality) and then obey the gospel to be forgiven.
11) Men must come to realize that God says breaking His law makes them immoral.
a) Jn. 16:8.
b) As Jesus promised, the Holy Spirit did arrive (this is recorded in Acts 2).
c) The Lord said the Spirit would “reprove the world for sin” (missing the mark).
d) Peter did this on the Day of Pentecost. He said those who heard him were immoral.
12) God says to men: You are immoral; I am holy and you are not.”
13) Immorality is like a flesh eating disease; it will destroy us if we do not find and accept the cure.
14) We need to be freed from immorality, and the Bible tells us how to do that.

Get a FREE on-line Romans commentary at http://www.abiblecommentary.com. You may also order this commentary in book form for just $14.95 (it is a great addition to your library, or an ideal gift for friends, a special Bible class teacher or a cherished minister. The next commentary for release will be First Corinthians and we expect that will be out soon!

Hamartia outside the gospels and Paul's epistles

2008-06-28T20:04:00.000-07:00

Football coach Erk Russell rattle snake story.

1) Today our study begins with the scripture that was read, Heb. 1:3.
2) A lot of people have a lot of different ideas about Jesus – who He is and what He did.
a) Man is immoral; we violate the will of God and God says these violations create a debt.
b) Jesus came to wipe away the sins of men, no matter how immoral a person is.
c) Hebrews 2:17.
d) Here we find it associated with the word “reconciliation” (KJV).
e) Let’s look at Heb. 3:13 – another passage which has our word – READ
f) Sin (immorality) will harden people. It is deceitful.
g) At first an immoral act may make a person feel pretty bad about what they did.
h) There is guilt, remorse, a man may say, “I was wrong and I will not do that again.”
i) The next day or later in the week, he thinks back to what was done and he wants to do it again.
3) Immorality hardens people. People may lose their sense of right and wrong.
4) Minds can become calloused; people may lose their ability to correctly reason.
5) God has some very strong and powerful warnings about engaging in immoral acts.
6) One warning in the book of Hebrews is found in 11:25.
7) In Heb. 12:1 we are told that immorality can so “easily beset us.”
8) The image in Heb. 21 is that of an athlete.
9) In the next book (Jas. 1:15) we are told that sin (immorality) leads to death.
10) Heb. 12:4 says “strive against sin.”
11) If this is our choice there is a great promise in 1 Jn. 1:7.
a) The blood of Christ can and will cleanse from “all sin” (immorality).
b) If we think we are not immoral (1 Jn. 1:8), we lie and the truth is not in us.
c) Every single person struggle with some form of immorality.
12) God requires His people to recognize immorality and put it behind them.
13) In 1 Jn. 3:8 we have another incentive to leave behind sin.
a) John said immorality is of the devil.
b) Satan is the one who wants people to be involved with sin.
c) Many want immorality.
d) Our world excels at ways to make immorality seem better, more secretive, and more enjoyable.
e) We seek to oppose it in our own lives and in the world.

Get a FREE on-line Romans commentary at http://www.abiblecommentary.com. You may also order this commentary in book form for just $14.95 (it is a great addition to your library, or an ideal gift for friends, a special Bible class teacher or a cherished minister. The next commentary for release will be First Corinthians and we expect that will be out soon!

Hamartia in Paul's epistles

2008-06-26T05:42:00.000-07:00

Hamartia, an important word in the New Testament

1) Rom. 3:9.
2) We have gotten to a point in society where people think that God is not all that concerned about behavior.
a) Much of our nation has lots is immoral compass.
b) Our nation does not know what is moral and immoral.
i) People in the business world are sometimes told to go to “sensitivity training.”
ii) 17 girls made a pact to get pregnant and raise their babies together.
3) In the Old Testament prophets condemned those who called evil good and good evil.
a) Rom. 3:20 READ
b) People can come to a “knowledge” of their immorality.
4) One of a Christian’s responsibilities is to let people know that they have violated God’s will.
5) This part of the great commission.
a) Rom. 5:12.
b) Only one person needed to sin one time and that eventually catches up with all accountable people.
c) Immorality is contagious.
6) When people turn to the gospel, they find a complete cure for their problem.
7) Rom. 5:20– READ
8) No person is too immoral to be saved by God.
a) Rom. 6:6 – READ
b) God wants the “body of sin” (a life of immorality) to be put away.
c) When a person become a Christian, he no longer lives as he once did.
9) The man that was used to going out and drinking with his buddies doesn’t do that any more.
10) The drug user puts away his drugs. He just doesn’t “decrease” he says “no” to that way of life.
11) Those involved with fornication realize they were immoral and terminate that activity.
12) The gambler says he is through trying to increase his wealth at the expense of others.
13) Verse 12 in this chapter says – READ
14) Notice that “sin” (immorality) is explicitly joined with “lust.”
15) Verse 14 - READ
a) Sin (immorality) was something we once “served” (verse 17).
b) If we are a Christian, we have been “freed from that” (verse 18).
c) If we go back to it, we will die (verse 23).
d) If we choose to live as a faithful Christian and flee immorality, we will be “saved” (verse 22).
16) In Col. 2:11 Paul said “putting off the body of sin.”
17) What types of activities have we put away because we became a Christian?
a) 1 Tim. 5:22 gives us an important principle: do not “partake” in the sins of others.
b) School children are often exposed to this very temptation.
18) Someone has a party with drugs or alcohol. Everyone they know is going to be there so they go.
19) The word we are looking at says “that is the way the world lives. That is how the heathens act.”
20) Two verses later in 1 Tim. 5 (24) Paul said the sins of some are “open.”

21) God wants a group of people who are moral, godly, distinct from the world, full of Christian graces.
22) Is that who we are?

Get a FREE on-line Romans commentary at http://www.abiblecommentary.com. You may also order this commentary in book form for just $14.95 (it is a great addition to your library, or an ideal gift for friends, a special Bible class teacher or a cherished minister. The next commentary for release will be First Corinthians and we expect that will be out soon!

A sermon on morality - what does the Bible say about morality?

2008-06-18T06:26:00.000-07:00

1) This study is based on the final 12 verses read from Eph. 5.
i) In verse 25 we find the word “church.” This word means the assembly (the people).
ii) The church of the Bible has a head (verse 23) – God says the church is headed by Christ.
2) God is very serious about this point – verse 25 says Jesus gave His life for the church.
a) In this church Christ died for Jesus has some plans. Verse 26 – READ
b) God wants a “sanctified” people (church).
3) We cannot be a child of God and live like people in the world.
a) At the end of verse 26 we are told that Christ has “washed” the members of His church.
4) The cleansing process culminates in baptism – baptism washes away sin. 2 Cor. 5:17
5) Verse 27 – READ
6) God wants people who lead a life consistent with His word.
a) Thus, Paul describes this as no “spot” or “wrinkle” in Eph. 5:27.

WE WANT TO ENGAGE IN A STUDY OF IMMORALITY.

1) Titus 2:12 says we are to live “soberly, righteously, and godly” in this present world.
2) Throughout the Bible God’s people are called on to be distinct from the world and be holy.
3) 2 Cor. 6:17 says, “Come ye out from among them.”
4) Our society has evil at every turn.
a) Pornography, divorce, abortion, changing marriage, std’s, aids, unwed mothers.
5) Drive by shootings; no respect for the the police.
6) Euthanasia, Satanism , prostitution, indifference to wrong.
7) Joe Wright was asked to open the new session of the Kansas Senate.
8) It is time to remind folks there is a God and He has said some things. He has said many things.
9) God calls on people to live a sanctified life.
a) David once asked a question in Ps. 11:3 – quote.
b) If we are a child of God Rom. 12:2 says “be not conformed to the world.”
10) God put the church in the world, but says the church is not to be “of” the world (Jn. 17:15).
11) Jesus said we are to be a “light” to the world (Mt. 5:13-16).
12) Peter (1 Pet. 2:9) said we are to “show forth the excellencies “of God.
a) If we are not willing to live in this manner, the world will draw us into its midst.
b) 1 Cor. 5:6 says “a little leaven leavens the whole lump.”
13) There is the Personal Test: will doing this make me a better or worse Christian?
14) The Social Test: will an action influence others to be better or worse Christians?
15) The Practical Test: will the results of my actions be desirable?
16) The Universal Test: if everyone should do this, would it enhance or degrade society?
17) The Scriptural Test: does the Bible endorse it or is it forbidden?
18) The Stewardship Test: will this activity waste a talent God has given to me?
19) The Family Test: will something bring discredit & dishonor to my family, and will it embarrass them?
20) The Publicity Test: would I be willing for friends, fellow Christians, the elders, and the preacher to know about it?
21) The Common Sense Test: does it agree with plain, everyday, ordinary common sense?
22) The Fairness Test: is it honest, and it is practicing the "Golden Rule"?
23) The Problem Test: is it potentially harmful to me and / or others?

Get a FREE on-line Romans commentary at http://www.abiblecommentary.com. You may also order this commentary in book form for just $14.95 (it is a great addition to your library, or an ideal gift for friends, a special Bible class teacher or a cherished minister. The next commentary for release will be First Corinthians and we expect that will be out soon!

"My father" - a sermon for father's day

2008-06-14T19:45:00.000-07:00

a) More than 40 times in the gospels we find these words” “My father.”
b) Today is father’s day, and we want to look at the words “my father” in the book of Matthew.
2) Our study begins in Mt. 7:21.
a) Some who planned on being saved will be rejected by God and this will be quite a shock.
b) The Lord’s warned about this and explained why this is the case in this 21st verse – READ

3) When we look at earthly father, we find that they generally have a “will.”
4) When men fulfill the role God has given them, that is fulfilling their divine role.
5) God intended for men to be respected and honored in their household.
6) God the Father has devised a plan to save us; we can obey that plan and be redeemed.
7) Jesus said the Heavenly Father’s also offers a plan and leadership; if followed, we will be saved.
8) Jesus went on to say that if we choose to obey God’s will, there will be some consequences.
9) Next on our list of references is Mt. 10:32.
a) READ.
b) Earthly fathers know they cannot be just and good if they have an “anything goes” policy.
c) God the Heavenly Father functions in this manner as well.
d) 2 Pet. 3:9 tells us that He does not anyone to perish.
10) Fathers make some choices and decisions that are sometimes very, very difficult.
11) God can “hard decisions.”
12) God will get no joy from saying that or turning people away, but this is what He will do.
13) Men get married and the will be called on to make some hard choices.
14) Eph. 6:4 says that men are to “nurture and chasten their children in the Lord.”
15) Our world makes parenting a difficult job. Mothers do not have an easy time of things.
16) Being a child is not easy.
17) Dads have many responsibilities, and some of their tasks are specific to them.
a) Mt. 20:23.
b) The Father was the one who had made the decision and already arranged things.

18) In a home God intended for the male (husband) to be a key figure in keeping things on track.
a) A father’s children may not understand or appreciate what he is doing.
b) Sometimes being a mother or father is a thankless job.
19) God is our on-going example. There are many times when He is not thanked.
20) There are many who do not care what God has done or pays no attention to Him.
21) Some try to attack what God or what He has done, but God continues to be a father.
22) Mt. 26:39 and this is a familiar passage.
23) Here is another practical point about men.
24) Earthly dads should be a source of strength in their families.
25) They should be a source for their wife to lean on and find support.
26) Jesus found comfort in the words “my father” and today many earthly fathers still offer great aid.
27) Mal. 2:14-15. Having a mom and a dad is God’s ideal arrangement.
28) It was the means God was going to use to produce a “godly seed.”
29) Mt. 26:53 says – READ
30) One of the things that we can think about on this father’s day is how dad may have helped us.
31) Good dads try to help their children as well as others.

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What does the Bible say about Abihu?

2008-06-12T05:17:00.001-07:00

A helpful overview is found in the Eaton's Bible Dictionary:

Abihu

"father of Him; i.e., "worshipper of God", the second of the sons of Aaron (Ex 6:23; Num 3:2; 26:60; 1 Chron 6:3). Along with his three brothers he was consecrated to the priest's office (Ex 28:1). With his father and elder brother he accompanied the seventy elders part of the way up the mount with Moses (Ex 24:1,9). On one occasion he and Nadab his brother offered incense in their censers filled with "strange" (i.e., common) fire, i.e., not with fire taken from the great brazen altar (Lev 6:9, etc.), and for this offence they were struck dead, and were taken out and buried without the camp (Lev 10:1-11; comp. Num 3:4; 26:61; 1 Chron 24:2). It is probable that when they committed this offence they were intoxicated, for immediately after is given the law prohibiting the use of wine or strong drink to the priests."

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God is no respector of persons (Acts 10:34)

2008-06-08T13:59:00.000-07:00

WHEN WE LOOK AT OUR WORLD WE SEE PREJUDICE AGAINST INDIVIDUALS AS WELL AS NATIONS. WE FIND EXAMPLES OF PEOPLE BEING REJECTED BECAUSE OF WHERE THEY WERE BORN, WHO THEIR PARENTS ARE, WHERE THEY ATTENDED SCHOOL, THE SKIN COLOR, ETC.

a) Our world likes to generate a lot of news about how different people are.
b) The media thrives on race related stories.
c) When people become Christians, differences such as race are of little importance.
2) An inspired man in Acts 10 claimed God does not favor one race over another.
a) God has done much more than say He regards all people equally.
b) He has actually illustrated this point in several ways.
c) God says all men are equal because He has given only one law.

3) There are preachers who try to say that some parts of the New Testament do not apply to non-Christians.
4) Marriage and divorce is sometimes dealt with in this way.
5) We have had members of the church say that prior to becoming a Christian, marriages do not count.
6) A person may divorce and remarry as often as they like, but after baptism, then marriage counts.
a) That type of teaching is difficult to reconcile with many New Testament verses.
b) In places like 1 Cor. 6 Paul said people had been guilty of “adultery.”
c) Since adultery is sexual sin for the married, what standard did these non-Christians violate?
d) What marriage law did they break? Was it man’s standard or God’s standard?

7) Study the word “whosever” in the New Testament.
8) You should find that this term occurs about 60 times.
9) Time and time again God says “whosoever” (all people). The gospel is universal in scope.
10) God has just one law for all men until the end of time—the law expressed in the New Testament.
11) This law is called the “law of liberty” (Jas. 1:25) and the “law of Christ” (Gal. 6:2).
12) All are guilty of sin, and God is not going to show any type of favortim when dealing with sinners.
a) God is not going to let one person “get away with sin” and punish others.
b) This should be a very appealing fact to people.
13) Some might like to think that only “bad people” will be judged.
14) What did Jesus say in Jn. 5:28-29?
15) All will be judged by the Lord at the end of time, 2 Cor. 5:10.
16) God will not be partial about the future judgment. It will be an experience for all people.
17) Jesus also said (Jn. 12:48) that man will be judged by His word.
18) If God requires me to believe in His Son for salvation, this is true for everyone else?
19) If God requires me to believe but says others are not required to do that, He is a respector of persons.
20) God cannot require me to repent and not others.
21) He cannot require confession from me and not require that of others.
22) If God requires from me baptism for the forgiveness of sins, that is required of all others.
23) There is no respect of persons with God.
24) God CANNOT show favoritism to any person.
25) We either obey the one plan He has given or we do not.
26) Based on all that has been said, we can see why the Bible says there is only one church.
a) Jesus said He would build only one church (Mt. 16:18).
b) Eph. 1:22-23 says the church is Christ’s “body” and Eph. 4:4-5 says there is only “one body.”
c) Eph. 2:14 says the one church is for “Jew and Gentile.”
d) For us, Jew and Gentile may not sound all that important.

27) What if we changed Jew and Gentile to “black and white
28) What if we said “Caucasians and Hispanics?”
29) What if we said “males and females?” Only one divine church for all interested in salvation.
30) We will one day stand before a perfect judge who has a perfect standard. What will He say about us?

Get a FREE on-line Romans commentary at http://www.abiblecommentary.com. You may also order this commentary in book form for just $14.95 (it is a great addition to your library, or an ideal gift for friends, a special Bible class teacher or a cherished minister. The next commentary for release will be First Corinthians and we expect that will be out soon!

"As I teach everywhere in every church" (1 Cor. 14:37)

2008-06-05T15:13:00.000-07:00

Paul said the Gospel that he preached was not received from men but by revelation from Jesus Christ (Galatians 1:11-12). Furthermore, he taught the same thing in every church (1Corinthians 4:17; cf. 1Corinthians 16:1). Paul did not teach one doctrine in Ephesus, a different doctrine in Philippi, and yet a different doctrine to the Colossians. He taught the same thing everywhere he went. If Paul would come to Auburn and stand in 56 pulpits, he would preach the same doctrine in every one of them! He would preach the same doctrine concerning salvation, worship, baptism, commitment and faithfulness.

Understanding this, we learn that there is a singularity, a unity, and uniformity to the Christian faith. There are not different brands of Christianity. If Jesus had established a multiplicity of faiths, Paul would have preached it. However, Paul preached the same doctrine everywhere he went. There is only "one Lord," "one faith," "one baptism," (Ephesians 4:5). Jesus did not establish many different competing religious organizations.

Jesus did not teach different and conflicting doctrines, and neither did His inspired apostles (cf. John 17:20-21). If the multitude of different doctrines being preached today did not come from Jesus or His inspired apostles, guess who they came from.

It seems the majority of religious people today view the Bible like a piece of abstract art; "it can mean whatever you want it to mean." That teaching comes straight from the mind of Satan himself.

As a Bible-believing, Christ-centered, Cross-dominated people, we must determine to recognize and uphold the unity of the Body of Christ, and the uniformity of His doctrine. Anything more, or less, will cause one to have his name removed from the Book of Life (Revelation 22:18-19). -- Toby Miller

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Who was Abigail?

2008-06-02T18:02:00.000-07:00

A helpful article comes from the Eaton’s Bible dictionary regarding Abigal (this article is given below).

— father (i.e., "leader") of the dance, or "of joy." (1.) The sister of David, and wife of Jether an Ishmaelite (1 Chron 2:16,17). She was the mother of Amasa (2 Sam 17:25).

(2.) The wife of the churlish Nabal, who dwelt in the district of Carmel (1 Sam 25:3). She showed great prudence and delicate management at a critical period of her husband's life. She was "a woman of good understanding, and of a beautiful countenance." After Nabal's death she became the wife of David (1 Sam 25:14-42), and was his companion in all his future fortunes (1 Sam 27:3; 30:5; 2 Sam 2:2). By her David had a son called Chileab (2 Sam 3:3), elsewhere called Daniel (1 Chron 3:1).

Get a FREE on-line Romans commentary at http://www.abiblecommentary.com. You may also order this commentary in book form for just $14.95 (it is a great addition to your library, or an ideal gift for friends, a special Bible class teacher or a cherished minister. The next commentary for release will be First Corinthians and we expect that will be out soon!

Who will God accept?

2008-06-02T18:00:00.000-07:00

1) Will God accept me? Can I be acceptable to God? Who will God accept?
2) Questions about who God will accept are very common and very important.
3) God specifically tells us who He will accept in Acts 10:35.
4) The end of this verse specifically says God will accept people.
5) The first part of Acts 10:35 tells us “who” He will accept.
6) Peter said God will accept people from “Every nation.”
7) Compare Acts 15:9.
1) Acts 10:35 is broad enough to even include Christians who leave the faith and want to return.
a) Acts 10:35 even includes the prodigal who wants to back.
b) If a wayward brother sister is willing to comply with God’s terms, they can be accepted.
2) The salvation process that God uses is also associated with the middle of verse 35.
a) A person must “fear God” and “work righteousness.”
b) A person does not become a Christian by chance. They must be taught.
c) They must obey the “one faith” (the “common faith” (Jude 3).

3) When a person is taught, they “fear” God (this fear is “reverence” – respect).
4) When a person respects God, they are inclined to be obedient.

5) God says if people in any nation want to be acceptable to Him, they need to respect Him.
a) They also need to “work righteousness.” Compare Rom. 2:8, 10.
6) Eccl. 12:13 says “fear God and keep His commandments.”
7) Christians build a record that is an eternal record.
8) We are God’s children if we choose righteousness.
9) Working righteousness does not mean we are working our way to heaven.
10) It simply means what James descried in Jas. 2:18 - faith is shown by its works.
11) Deut. 4:29; Jer. 29:13; 1 Chron. 16:10-11.
12) We can be acceptable in the sight of God – it does not matter who we are if we obey.

Get a FREE on-line Romans commentary at http://www.abiblecommentary.com. You may also order this commentary in book form for just $14.95 (it is a great addition to your library, or an ideal gift for friends, a special Bible class teacher or a cherished minister. The next commentary for release will be First Corinthians and we expect that will be out soon!

Immorality in the nation of Israel (Judges 19)

2008-05-31T19:46:00.000-07:00

1) The 19th chapter of Judges begins our text.
a) At this time Israel had no centralized authority (the government was in a shambles).
b) Anarchy and injustice was the state of the nation.
2) In the latter part of verse 1 we find there was a man from the tribe of Levi living in some hill country.
3) The end of this verse says he took a “concubine” from Bethlehem.
4) “Concubine” may be thought of as a “lesser wife.”
5) The concubine became dissatisfied and left – verse 2 – READ
6) After a little time the wife was ready to go back with her husband.
7) Verse 9 – READ
8) The husband wanted to “get on the road.” Verse 10 – READ
a) They got to the city of Jerusalem – verses 10-11.
b) A servant was with the husband and wife and he suggested everyone stay in Jerusalem.
9) Verses 12-13 – READ
a) The couple, just like many travelers today, decided to keep going for a while.
b) They came to another place and decided to spend the night there – verse 15 – READ
10) An interesting statement is in this verse: “no man took them into his house to lodge.”
a) Travelers did not have access to the types of temporary lodging we have now.
b) Staying in Jerusalem was not safe.
11) This couple was finally approached by an old man – verse 16 – READ
a) Verse 17 – READ
b) At the end of verse 18 our travelers said to this fellow they had no place to stay.
12) Verse 19 says they had all the supplies they needed.
13) They lacked was a place to stay.
14) The old man said he would give these people all they needed; he said it was too dangerous to stay on the street.
15) Verse 20 – READ
a) After a time some people from the town came to visit.
b) One paraphrase refers to this group of visitors as “perverts.”
16) An event happened that was similar to the event involving Lot and the area of Sodom.
17) They had some plans for him that were vile – verse 22 – READ
18) The old man was a lot like Lot – he wanted to protect his house guests.
19) He Verse 23 – READ
20) Notice what we are told in 25a: READ
21) The rest of verse 25 says the wife (concubine) finally ended up outside the house.
22) This woman was treated very badly and finally killed.
23) The man took her back home but there was not a burial in the traditional sense of the word.
a) Verse 29 tells us the corpse of this wife was, in a sense, put forward for public viewing.
24) A key verse in this chapter is the last one – verse 30 – READ
a) People in Israel became aware of what had happened to this man’s wife.
b) Seeing the body of this woman stirred practically the entire nation to action.
25) Judg. 20:1-2, 3 – READ
a) The man in Judg. 19 got a first hand look at immorality; it affected his own family.
b) Immoral acts still bring great sadness to people.
26) A key point from Judg. 19, however, is this: God’s people responded to immorality.
27) Think of how our society regards immorality.
28) People have started to erase sin from their vocabulary.
29) We need to go back to the Bible and see how God defines sin.
a) We need to be the people who stand up in society and talk about immorality.
b) God is the moral judge of all people; morality is not judged by a poll.
c) It is not determined by a government, or from one generation to the next.

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Who was Cain in the Old Testament?

2008-05-30T10:28:00.000-07:00

Abel
(Heb. Hebhel), a breath, or vanity, the second son of Adam and Eve. He was put to death by his brother Cain (Gen 4:1-16). Guided by the instruction of their father, the two brothers were trained in the duty of worshipping God. "And in process of time" (marg. "at the end of days", i.e., on the Sabbath) each of them offered up to God of the first-fruits of his labours. Cain, as a husbandman, offered the fruits of the field; Abel, as a shepherd, of the firstlings of his flock. "The Lord had respect unto Abel and his offering; but unto Cain and his offering he had not respect" (Gen 4:3-5). On this account Cain was angry with his brother, and formed the design of putting him to death; a design which he at length found an opportunity of carrying into effect (Gen 4:8,9. Comp. 1 John 3:12). There are several references to Abel in the New Testament. Our Saviour speaks of him as "righteous" (Matt 23:35). "The blood of sprinkling" is said to speak "better things than that of Abel" (Heb 12:24); i.e., the blood of Jesus is the reality of which the blood of the offering made by Abel was only the type. The comparison here is between the sacrifice offered by Christ and that offered by Abel, and not between the blood of Christ calling for mercy and the blood of the murdered Abel calling for vengeance, as has sometimes been supposed. It is also said (Heb 11:4) that "Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain." This sacrifice was made "by faith;" this faith rested in God, not only as the Creator and the God of providence, but especially in God as the great Redeemer, whose sacrifice was typified by the sacrifices which, no doubt by the divine institution, were offered from the days of Adam downward. On account of that "faith" which looked forward to the great atoning sacrifice, Abel's offering was accepted of God. Cain's offering had no such reference, and therefore was rejected. Abel was the first martyr, as he was the first of our race to die. --Easton's Bible Dictionary

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What does the word "abba" mean?

2008-05-29T20:10:00.000-07:00

This Syriac or Chaldee word is found three times in the New Testament (Mark 14:36; Rom 8:15; Gal 4:6), and in each case is followed by its Greek equivalent, which is translated "father." It is a term expressing warm affection and filial confidence. It has no perfect equivalent in our language. It has passed into European languages as an ecclesiastical term, "abbot." -- Easton's Bible Dictionary

Get a FREE on-line Romans commentary at http://www.abiblecommentary.com. You may also order this commentary in book form for just $14.95 (it is a great addition to your library, or an ideal gift for friends, a special Bible class teacher or a cherished minister. The next commentary for release will be First Corinthians and we expect that will be out soon!

How to be happy

2008-05-28T05:17:00.000-07:00

If you want to be Happy, here are some things to practice….

¨ Seek to lead a quiet and peaceful life {I Tim. 2:2, I Thes. 4:11, Eph. 4:3}
¨ Count your blessings, don't despise His goodness {Rom. 2:4}
¨ Laugh {Pro. 15:13}
¨ Be thankful {Col. 3:15, I Thes. 5:18}
¨ Be prayerful {I Thes. 5:17}
¨ Be unselfish {Phil. 2:4}
¨ Be concerned for the happiness of others {Pro. 18:24} (You have an impact on others happiness)
¨ Be caring, helpful {I John 3:17}
¨ Be loving {I Cor. 13:13}
¨ Be humble {Micah 6:8, Pro. 29:23}
¨ Be respectful {I Pet. 2:17}
¨ Be courteous {I Pet. 3:8,9}
¨ Be content {I Tim. 6:6}
¨ Be active {Rom. 2:7}
¨ Look inward, not outward {2 Cor. 13:5}
¨ Talk to yourself often, be honest {Psa. 119:11}
¨ Don't blame others take responsibility for your actions,{Ecc. 12:14, Rom. 2:6}
¨ Realize your days are numbered {Psa. 90:12} (Life is too short to waste)
¨ Listen to others who love you enough to give you wisdom {Pro. 3:13}
¨ Love people, not things.
¨ Look forward with excitement and have a vision for yourself.
¨ Change your future by learning from the past.
¨ Leave the past in the past, don't drag it around with you {Phil. 3:13, Eph. 4:26} (bitterness spoils happiness)
¨ Live modestly {I Tim. 6:9-10}
¨ Make the decision to be happy {Pro. 29:18}
¨ Have a plan, don't leave things to chance {Pro. 4:26}
¨ Make good things happen {Mat. 12:35}
¨ Learn to be adaptable, change is the only thing that stays the same {1 Jn. 2:17}
¨ Actively manage your life: {Pro. 16:20}
? Relationship to God
? Relationship to people
? Health (as best as you can)
? Finances
? Behaviors
? Decisions

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"How Does God Find Pleasure?"

2008-05-27T09:27:00.000-07:00

God could not enjoy winning a competition, He never loses. He could not enjoy an abundance of material things, He owns everything.

Since God is not threatened by a lack of anything; and since He is not threatened with eternal damnation, where does He find pleasure?

The Bible tells us that God takes pleasure in helping those who fear Him (Psalm 147:11). He takes pleasure in seeing those who fear Him prosper (Psalm 35:27). Adopting men through the blood of Christ is according to His good pleasure (Ephesians 1:5). It is also His good pleasure to give His disciples the Kingdom (Luke 12:32).

God does not desire any to perish, but that all might come to repentance (2Peter 3:9). Therefore, God finds pleasure when one repents of sin and turns to Him.

Jesus found pleasure in always doing the things that pleased God the Father (John 8:39). That's why God found pleasure in Jesus (Isaiah 42:1). Since Jesus is our Example (1Peter 2:21), God will find pleasure in us if we do only those things that please Him.

God takes pleasure in helping others. In 2Chronicles 16:9, we are told that the eyes of the Lord go to and fro throughout the earth looking for those whose heart is perfect toward Him in order to show Himself strong in their behalf.

Why do you and I take pleasure in helping others who have a genuine need? Because we are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:26-27). Think of all the things you have sacrificed to try and set your children on the right path of life. Do you feel bad about that? Of course not! Why? Because you are created in the image of God.

Are you looking for real meaning and purpose in life? It can only be found by doing those things in which God finds pleasure, because we are made in His image. You may have an abundance of "things" but still have a void in your life. To fill it, do the things that Jesus did, that is, always doing the things that please God (John 8:39), and helping others (Acts 10:38b). -- Toby Miller

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Who was the “Aaron” of the Old Testament?

2008-05-25T14:26:00.000-07:00

He was the oldest son of Amram and Jochebed, a daughter of Levi (Ex 6:20). He was born in Egypt three years before his brother Moses and a number of years after his sister Miriam (2:1,4; 7:7). He was married to Elisheba, the daughter of Amminadab of the house of Judah (6:23; 1 Chron 2:10). He had four sons with her (Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar).

Get a FREE on-line Romans commentary at http://www.abiblecommentary.com. You may also order this commentary in book form for just $14.95 (it is a great addition to your library, or an ideal gift for friends, a special Bible class teacher or a cherished minister. The next commentary for release will be First Corinthians and we expect that will be out soon!

The salvation of Cornelius (Acts 10-11)

2008-05-25T14:18:00.000-07:00

1) One of the most important conversions in the book of Acts is Cornelius and his house.
2) This conversion is described in both Acts 10 and Acts 11.

3) Cornelius was lost . He had to “hear words” to receive salvation.
a) Cornelius may have been one of the finest men that has ever lived.
b) Acts 10:22 says a lot of Jewish people looked at this man and said he was a fine fellow.
4) He was “devout” (religious), Acts 10:2
a) Today people often say someone is “saved” because they are religious.
b) Our culture seems to equate almost any type of religious faith with heaven.
5) Cornelius proves religion is not an indicator of or proof of salvation.
6) He was religious, but He did not have a right relationship with God.
7) If that had been the case, Peter would not have needed to come and instruct him about spiritual things.
8) Acts 10:2 also says Cornelius feared God – this also was not enough.
a) The world assumes that thinking kindly about God and not speaking speak badly about him results in salvation.
b) Religion and respect for God do not save.

9) Cornelius was a giver. He helped the poor.
10) We would call him a “generous” man.
11) Cornelius tells us that giving money is not the way to salvation.
a) Cornelius’ life also consisted of prayer (this is stated at the end of verse 2).
b) His prayer life was very regular, but it did not save him.
12) Because Cornelius was in a state of condemnation he had to find a preacher –Acts 10:5 – READ.
a) Acts 11 tells us exactly why Peter was needed – verse 14 –READ
b) Cornelius had to hear “words” (a message). We also learn of the purpose behind this message.
13) Cornelius learned that he had to “do” some things so He could “receive” some things.
14) A person may have what we would regard as an excellent moral character.
15) Until someone hears and obeys the words of Christ, he is lost.
16) Cornelius was told by an angel to make contact with Peter (Acts 10:3), but this did not saved him.

17) Some point out from Acts 10 that Cornelius received the Holy Spirit and this is true.
a) Cornelius and his house did receive the Holy Spirit, but this did not save him or his family.
b) Acts 11:15 – READ

18) Verse 14 does not say Cornelius was saved by the Holy Spirit. Remember what was learned earlier.
a) “Words” were going to save this man and the other people in his household.
19) Verse 15 says Peter “began to speak.” Peter did not get a chance to speak the needed words.
20) He started to speak and then came the Holy Spirit.
21) If words were supposed to save this man, why did the Holy Spirit interrupt the speaker?
22) The Holy Spirit proved that it was okay to speak the “words of salvation” (verse 14).
23) Back in Mt. 16 Jesus said Peter would have “keys to the kingdom.”

24) Peter not only opened the door for this man and his house, he commanded them to be obedient.
25) Verse 48 of Acts 10.
26) Cornelius became a “saved man” when he obeyed the gospel.
a) Cornelius could have said he did not need Peter; he had all the religion he wanted.
b) He gave, he prayed, God was an important part of his life. He could have said he was satisfied.
c) This is what we hear from many people today.

27) People have a system of religion they like, they believe it works for them, so they will not change.
28) Cornelius was a great man in part because he was willing to listen to the truth.
29) What really made him special was his being willing to obey the truth.
30) His attitude is more fully expressed in verse 33 of Acts 10 – READ
a) This man said “we want to hear it all.”
b) ALL is a key word.
31) Have we found the Father through the Son?
32) Do we use the Son on a regular basis to maintain our relationship with God?

Get a FREE on-line Romans commentary at http://www.abiblecommentary.com. You may also order this commentary in book form for just $14.95 (it is a great addition to your library, or an ideal gift for friends, a special Bible class teacher or a cherished minister. The next commentary for release will be First Corinthians and we expect that will be out soon!

Honoring mothers - a sermon about mothers

2008-05-25T05:18:00.000-07:00

1) Story of Sara Tucholsky.
2) Today is Mother’s Day, a time when we think about words like “honor” and “help.”
3) Today we want to pay special attention to the word “honor.”
4) For our scripture reading we heard Ex. 20:1-17.
a) This is one of the places where the Ten Commandments are recorded.
b) In the New Testament we are told the Ten Commandments have been taken out of the way.
c) Jesus is the “end of the Old Testament law” Paul said in Rom. 10:4.
d) Paul did say we can “learn” from the Old Testament (Rom. 15:4).
5) One of the things we learn is that women—especially mothers—deserve honor.
6) God was explicit about this point in Ex. 20:12 – honor mother and father.
7) Ex. 21:15 – READ
8) We live in a time when parents are often not respected.
9) Ex. 21:15 describes something worse: hitting a parent.
10) Many evil people have tried to destroy much of what is good.
11) God said a mother is special she should never be struck by a child. Such is also true for dad.
12) Our world has told women for at least 50 years they are second class citizens.
13) When we look at women we find that they are special.
14) Let’s look at verse 17 in Ex. 21 – READ
15) Lev. 19:3 says children were to “respect” his “mother” and “father.”
a) In Ex. 21 we see things negatively—children were told what “not” to do.
b) In Lev. 19:3, the command is positive. Respect was to be shown to mom and dad.
16) In our culture children are often encouraged to not respect mom and dad.
17) In the movie “Expelled” professors and others talk about religion being “superstition.”
18) Children grow up, go to college, and hear from well educated men that their parents are ignorant.
19) Mom and dad believe in a God who is a fairy tale that is in the same category as Alice in Wonderland.
20) It is right to honor and respect mothers in the younger years.
a) In Lev. 19:32 God told His people “rise up before the hoary head.”
21) In 1 Kgs. 1:11 - Solomon’s mother was Bathsheba.
22) Bathsheba went to her son Solomon about a matter.
a) Notice what Solomon did when mom came to see him – 1 Kgs. 2:19 - READ
b) In the later years it is also right to respect and honor mom.
c) Prov. 1:8 says children are to “listen to the instruction of their father.”
d) Then the author also said “forsake not the law of your mother.”
23) Prov. 30:11 says there is a generation that “curses their father” and “does not bless their mother.”
a) This Proverb seems to be pretty much on target for the current day and time.
b) Our world may choose to live in this way, but Christians select a different course.
c) We hope this is the course you will pick – the choice that is now called Christianity.

Get a FREE on-line Romans commentary at http://www.abiblecommentary.com. You may also order this commentary in book form for just $14.95 (it is a great addition to your library, or an ideal gift for friends, a special Bible class teacher or a cherished minister. The next commentary for release will be First Corinthians and we expect that will be out soon!

Where did the devil come from?

2008-05-21T13:22:00.000-07:00

Where did Satan come from one? This is one of the questions that many people want to know, and it is often answered based on a few select passages: Lk. 10:18; Rev. 12; Ezek. 28; Isa. 14. People see things like “Lucifer” in Isa. 12 and immediately conclude Satan is in view.

All the preceding verses have nothing to do with Satan; the writer was describing the “king of Tyre” in Ezek. 28. Luke 10:18 refers to victory over the devil, not how Satan came to be. John, also, in Rev. 12 refers to Satan’s lack of success, not how he started.

For a special study outline on the origin of Satan, visit http://www.abiblecommentary.com/theoriginofSatan

Get a FREE on-line Romans commentary at http://www.abiblecommentary.com. You may also order this commentary in book form for just $14.95 (it is a great addition to your library, or an ideal gift for friends, a special Bible class teacher or a cherished minister. The next commentary for release will be First Corinthians and we expect that will be out soon!