I began this blog October of 2010 - and am extremely grateful for the discipline and outlet it has allowed me as I study our Father's Word.
Thank you for those who have read, shared, commented and/or given feedback.
I don't know that its saying goodbye necessarily, but rather, a change in venue, focus, outlook or output. :-) Future posts will be on my other blog Kastle Keeper. ~ Blessings!
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Thursday, October 3, 2013
Monday, September 30, 2013
Day 272-273 ~ 2010
Originally posted in a forum in 2010 - this post may contain links which are no longer valid, if you find a non-working link, please let me know and I will attempt to find a replacement or make a correction as necessary.
Days 272-273
XVI The Life of our Lord - 5 B.C. - A.D. 29
Introduction
- Prefaces to synoptic gospels - Matthew 1:1; Mark 1:1; Luke 1:-4
- Preface to John's gospel - John 1:1
- Two genealogies of Jesus Christ - Matthew 1:2-17; Luke 3:23-38
- Caesar Augustus rules Roman empire - 27 B.C. - A.D. 14
Announcements
- Annunciation to Zacharias about John the Baptist - Luke 1:5-25
- Annunciation to Mary about Jesus Christ - Luke 1:26-38
- Song of Elisabeth to Mary - Luke 1:39-45
- The magnificat of Mary - Luke 1:4656
- Birth and childhood of John the Baptist - Luke 1:57-80
- Annunciation to Joseph of coming Messiah by angel - Matthew 1:18-24
Birth and Childhood of Jesus
- Birth of Jesus - Luke 2:1-7; Matthew 1:25
- Praise of angels and homage of shepherds to babe in manger - Luke 2:8-20
- Circumcision of Jesus - Luke 2:21
- Presentation in the temple - Luke 2:22-38
- Visit of the wise men - Matthew 2:1-12
- Flight to Egypt (and death of Herod the Great) - Matthew 2:13-20
- From Egypt to Nazareth - Matthew 2:21-23; Luke 2:39
- Childhood at Nazareth - Luke 2:40
- Jesus to Jerusalem at age twelve - Luke 2:41-50
- Eighteen years spent at Nazareth - Luke 2:51-52
- Birth of Paul - A.D. 10-15
- Caesar Augustus dies - Tiberius now reigns - A.D. 14
*~*~*~*~*
Genealogy - I searched for a chart which would show the genealogy of Christ - thought I had found one - absolutely awesome. Had the outline of a man, at the head were Adam and Eve and their offspring...down through to Noah and his 3 sons, Shem, Ham and Japheth....down to David...through to Jesus Christ....then onward...as first perusal I thought it okay, even downloaded it...then realized as I looked at it more closely...**gasp** it appeared to be Islamic...looking for that 12th Inman...(note to self...do not download w/out first thoroughly checking!)
The sad conclusion is, there were no easy, simple genealogies laid out in chart or graph form...at a glace type...if I had the time, I would enjoy drawing out something similar to the one mentioned above, abet from a Christian perspective! If someone comes across something, please share.
As I began to read the lineage of Jesus, I remembered someone once stating how each gospel presented a facet of Jesus - a little digging gave me this:
Matthew - written to the Jews to show the Messianic prophetic fulfillment of Jesus Christ
Mark - written to the Romans to show him as an obedient servant - hence no lineage - slaves aren't worthy of such.
Luke - written to a Gentile audience showing Jesus as the Son of Man or a Savior for all mankind.
John - God incarnate - shows Jesus before time began - numerous I AM statements.
Reese in his introduction to the NT mentions that Zacharias was a high priest - however, my research does not seem to substantiate that position. Specifically, a high priest was to enter once a year to offer a blood atonement for the national sin of the people. This passage clearly states that Zacharias was burning incense. Burning incense appears to have happened daily, which was to be indicative of the peoples prayers ascending to the Lord. A priest could only be picked for this particular honor once in his lifetime. Once he had performed the function, he was 'retired' from performing it again. God's sovereign appointment for Zacharias - some commentaries fault his unbelief, stating he 'blew it' - and for which he was chastised. God had blessed an older couple previously - this was not a 'new' miracle. He did speak unadvisedly, but perhaps a more chilling observation to this scenario would be to ask ourselves, where stand I? When have I spoken unadvisedly and not trusted the Lord, nor remembered HIS previous goodness to me, others or mankind in general?
Mary's question on the other hand...received no rebuke...a woman pregnant without having sexual relations? Never heard of that...yes a prophecy was given...but no previous incidence and never another one.
Luke 1:17 - in the spirit and power of Elias - not resurrected Elijah, how could it be? Elijah was translated...the commentaries I consulted affirm that John was a type of Elijah - bold in speaking the truth, rebuking kings, hanging out in the desert, not afraid of what man would or would do to them as they proclaimed the Truth of God's Word. How much do we reflect our brother's in being bold for the Lord?
I wondered if the 6th month reference was a Jewish calendar or if they had adopted the Roman calendar dating system...and a note, Father specifically did not give dates regarding Jesus' birth. Nor was there ever any 'do this in remembrance' of me injunction as there was to keep the breaking of bread. If you have never researched the topic of Jesus' birth, the date currently assigned, who assigned it, where that date came from, please be encouraged to do an in-depth study.
Remember we all will give an account - our works being tried by fire - I trembled inwardly with the thought that I may be engaging in activities or 'works' which I think pleasing to my heavenly Father, only to find that they will be nothing but vapor in HIS sight as they are tried. What wood, hay, stubble are we keeping in our lives?
I noticed the word, Israel used several times in these days readings...specifically "He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy;" Luke 1:54 and "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people." Luke 1:68 and "A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel." Luke 2:32 - God was doing something specific for Israel in sending HIS son. He fulfilled prophecy - He provided a light to the Gentiles - but just because Father opened up the doors to the Gentiles in no way mitigates the prophecies yet to be fulfilled for Israel. If Father chose a nation as HIS own, can HE un-choose them? If so, what does that say about the doctrine of election?
Joseph - a gentle, loving man. Chosen by God to raise HIS son. What an awesome calling. Father spoke to Joseph through dreams and he was immediately obedient. "Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:" Matthew 1:24. No hesitation, no arguing, no doubting, nothing but immediate obedience. Oh that the servants of the most high God were to be that obedient in all matters which HE corrects, guides and/or directs. What would be the result?
Servants of God - the shepherds were glorifying and praising God, Simeon was blessing God - what adoration for a sovereign and bountiful God. Lord, help us, Your people, to give you all the glory, praise and bless Your holy name. Show us to be steadfast as Your servants of old - standing firm in the midst of a wicked and adulterous generation.
Days 272-273
XVI The Life of our Lord - 5 B.C. - A.D. 29
Introduction
- Prefaces to synoptic gospels - Matthew 1:1; Mark 1:1; Luke 1:-4
- Preface to John's gospel - John 1:1
- Two genealogies of Jesus Christ - Matthew 1:2-17; Luke 3:23-38
- Caesar Augustus rules Roman empire - 27 B.C. - A.D. 14
Announcements
- Annunciation to Zacharias about John the Baptist - Luke 1:5-25
- Annunciation to Mary about Jesus Christ - Luke 1:26-38
- Song of Elisabeth to Mary - Luke 1:39-45
- The magnificat of Mary - Luke 1:4656
- Birth and childhood of John the Baptist - Luke 1:57-80
- Annunciation to Joseph of coming Messiah by angel - Matthew 1:18-24
Birth and Childhood of Jesus
- Birth of Jesus - Luke 2:1-7; Matthew 1:25
- Praise of angels and homage of shepherds to babe in manger - Luke 2:8-20
- Circumcision of Jesus - Luke 2:21
- Presentation in the temple - Luke 2:22-38
- Visit of the wise men - Matthew 2:1-12
- Flight to Egypt (and death of Herod the Great) - Matthew 2:13-20
- From Egypt to Nazareth - Matthew 2:21-23; Luke 2:39
- Childhood at Nazareth - Luke 2:40
- Jesus to Jerusalem at age twelve - Luke 2:41-50
- Eighteen years spent at Nazareth - Luke 2:51-52
- Birth of Paul - A.D. 10-15
- Caesar Augustus dies - Tiberius now reigns - A.D. 14
*~*~*~*~*
Genealogy - I searched for a chart which would show the genealogy of Christ - thought I had found one - absolutely awesome. Had the outline of a man, at the head were Adam and Eve and their offspring...down through to Noah and his 3 sons, Shem, Ham and Japheth....down to David...through to Jesus Christ....then onward...as first perusal I thought it okay, even downloaded it...then realized as I looked at it more closely...**gasp** it appeared to be Islamic...looking for that 12th Inman...(note to self...do not download w/out first thoroughly checking!)
The sad conclusion is, there were no easy, simple genealogies laid out in chart or graph form...at a glace type...if I had the time, I would enjoy drawing out something similar to the one mentioned above, abet from a Christian perspective! If someone comes across something, please share.
As I began to read the lineage of Jesus, I remembered someone once stating how each gospel presented a facet of Jesus - a little digging gave me this:
Matthew - written to the Jews to show the Messianic prophetic fulfillment of Jesus Christ
Mark - written to the Romans to show him as an obedient servant - hence no lineage - slaves aren't worthy of such.
Luke - written to a Gentile audience showing Jesus as the Son of Man or a Savior for all mankind.
John - God incarnate - shows Jesus before time began - numerous I AM statements.
Reese in his introduction to the NT mentions that Zacharias was a high priest - however, my research does not seem to substantiate that position. Specifically, a high priest was to enter once a year to offer a blood atonement for the national sin of the people. This passage clearly states that Zacharias was burning incense. Burning incense appears to have happened daily, which was to be indicative of the peoples prayers ascending to the Lord. A priest could only be picked for this particular honor once in his lifetime. Once he had performed the function, he was 'retired' from performing it again. God's sovereign appointment for Zacharias - some commentaries fault his unbelief, stating he 'blew it' - and for which he was chastised. God had blessed an older couple previously - this was not a 'new' miracle. He did speak unadvisedly, but perhaps a more chilling observation to this scenario would be to ask ourselves, where stand I? When have I spoken unadvisedly and not trusted the Lord, nor remembered HIS previous goodness to me, others or mankind in general?
Mary's question on the other hand...received no rebuke...a woman pregnant without having sexual relations? Never heard of that...yes a prophecy was given...but no previous incidence and never another one.
Luke 1:17 - in the spirit and power of Elias - not resurrected Elijah, how could it be? Elijah was translated...the commentaries I consulted affirm that John was a type of Elijah - bold in speaking the truth, rebuking kings, hanging out in the desert, not afraid of what man would or would do to them as they proclaimed the Truth of God's Word. How much do we reflect our brother's in being bold for the Lord?
I wondered if the 6th month reference was a Jewish calendar or if they had adopted the Roman calendar dating system...and a note, Father specifically did not give dates regarding Jesus' birth. Nor was there ever any 'do this in remembrance' of me injunction as there was to keep the breaking of bread. If you have never researched the topic of Jesus' birth, the date currently assigned, who assigned it, where that date came from, please be encouraged to do an in-depth study.
Remember we all will give an account - our works being tried by fire - I trembled inwardly with the thought that I may be engaging in activities or 'works' which I think pleasing to my heavenly Father, only to find that they will be nothing but vapor in HIS sight as they are tried. What wood, hay, stubble are we keeping in our lives?
I noticed the word, Israel used several times in these days readings...specifically "He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy;" Luke 1:54 and "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people." Luke 1:68 and "A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel." Luke 2:32 - God was doing something specific for Israel in sending HIS son. He fulfilled prophecy - He provided a light to the Gentiles - but just because Father opened up the doors to the Gentiles in no way mitigates the prophecies yet to be fulfilled for Israel. If Father chose a nation as HIS own, can HE un-choose them? If so, what does that say about the doctrine of election?
Joseph - a gentle, loving man. Chosen by God to raise HIS son. What an awesome calling. Father spoke to Joseph through dreams and he was immediately obedient. "Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:" Matthew 1:24. No hesitation, no arguing, no doubting, nothing but immediate obedience. Oh that the servants of the most high God were to be that obedient in all matters which HE corrects, guides and/or directs. What would be the result?
Servants of God - the shepherds were glorifying and praising God, Simeon was blessing God - what adoration for a sovereign and bountiful God. Lord, help us, Your people, to give you all the glory, praise and bless Your holy name. Show us to be steadfast as Your servants of old - standing firm in the midst of a wicked and adulterous generation.
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Day 271 ~ 2010
Originally posted in a forum in 2010 - this post may contain links which are no longer valid, if you find a non-working link, please let me know and I will attempt to find a replacement or make a correction as necessary.
Day 271 - 400 Years of Silence?
A short journey today...3 pages...none of which is 'scriptural'.
I have been browsing through websites about the 400 silent years...why were they considered silent? It sure was not a peaceful time! Silent, in that there were no prophets on the scene speaking forth the Word of Truth. Nothing. All those previous hundreds and hundreds of years of prophets foretelling, admonishing, cajoling, rebuking, exhorting to people, who for the most part, did not want to listen.
Some listened, just as some will listen to the expository on the Word today, but the majority of people are on the wide road.
As I was pondering on the prophets and who they were speaking to...for the most part the people of the nation that Father chose - Israel - or some semblance thereof. Many of the prophecies have been fulfilled...but many have not...and it is interesting to watch as Father's prophetic timeline continues to unfold.
One of the websites I visited used the analogy of the old testament coming to a close as being similar to a play - the curtain closes - then opens to a new stage. The OT closes with Persia as the dominant world power. When the 'curtain' opens in the NT, it is Rome that is on the world stage.
*~*~*~*~*
XV - The History between the testaments - C 400 - 5 B.C.
- Persian reign weakens - 400-333 B.C.
- Greece is the world power 333 - 63 B.C. - (Daniel's third world empire)
- Rome is the world power - 63 B.C - A.D. 476 (Daniel's fourth world empire)
*~*~*~*~
There is quite a bit out there on the world wide web about the 400 silent years...here is a sampling of some of what I found:
I can not remember which site - or if it is even one of those listed below - too much data intake - but there was a comment on how when Alexander the Great was going to invade Jerusalem and the priests went out and showed him the prophecy of Daniel and how he fulfilled it...thus, for a time, leaving Jerusalem intact. Now the Jewish nation suffered greatly after Alexander died...his 4 generals squabbled with one another and guess who sat smack dab in the middle of their marching trail? Israel...got spanked time and again by the marauding armies.
I have not read all of this article - but have enjoyed it thus far: www.templemount.org/0240.html
Thought the brief overview offered by this site interesting: www.bibleteacher.org/Dm_os072.htm
During this time there were several institutions which came along:
-The Scribes - laymen who started out to help minister to the spiritual needs of Israel. Became cold in their work and bound up in tradition.
-The Synagogue - with the Temple destroyed the Jews created a place of meeting - 10 men required to start one.
-The Pharisees - conservative orthodox , straight laced, ultra conservative, Biblical literalists - Jewish tradition became their stumbling block.
-The Sadducees - liberal, Hellenistic Jews, go with the flow, wanted riches and fame.
-The Sanhedrin - made up mostly of Sadducees, with sprinkling of Pharisees - members were usually from the higher level of society.
-The Apocrypha - false scriptural writings - good historical data - but rejected for inclusion in the canon of Scripture.
As I was reading and absorbing...the Pharisee and Sadducee dynamics played through my mind...I can almost see some hyper-calvanists as our current day Pharisee or I've encountered a few Reformed folk who seem to think that since they have the doctrine of election down, they are the cat's meow. The attitude of "we've got our doctrine lined up and you don't" appears similar to those of the Pharisee "we've got Abraham as our Father."
While the Sadducee's could be considered the name it, claim it, blab it grab it group - or even the easy believism crowd...or perhaps the seeker friendly churches - those all want to get along, go with the flow, just invite them in - water down the gospel, make it palatable. Don't offend those in authority.
This blog was using the 400 years as a springboard for observing that during the 'silent' times in our lives, God is still at work, even when we do not see and/or perceive that HE is. jthelmsdeep.blogspot.com/2009/03/400-silent-years.html
NOTE - I do not vet websites for their doctrinal content - I am simply seeking information or reference items - it is each of our individual responsibilities to VET the information we take in - I did not perceive anything negative in the articles offered. Remember BE A BEREAN - Acts 17:11.
Day 271 - 400 Years of Silence?
A short journey today...3 pages...none of which is 'scriptural'.
I have been browsing through websites about the 400 silent years...why were they considered silent? It sure was not a peaceful time! Silent, in that there were no prophets on the scene speaking forth the Word of Truth. Nothing. All those previous hundreds and hundreds of years of prophets foretelling, admonishing, cajoling, rebuking, exhorting to people, who for the most part, did not want to listen.
Some listened, just as some will listen to the expository on the Word today, but the majority of people are on the wide road.
As I was pondering on the prophets and who they were speaking to...for the most part the people of the nation that Father chose - Israel - or some semblance thereof. Many of the prophecies have been fulfilled...but many have not...and it is interesting to watch as Father's prophetic timeline continues to unfold.
One of the websites I visited used the analogy of the old testament coming to a close as being similar to a play - the curtain closes - then opens to a new stage. The OT closes with Persia as the dominant world power. When the 'curtain' opens in the NT, it is Rome that is on the world stage.
*~*~*~*~*
XV - The History between the testaments - C 400 - 5 B.C.
- Persian reign weakens - 400-333 B.C.
- Greece is the world power 333 - 63 B.C. - (Daniel's third world empire)
- Rome is the world power - 63 B.C - A.D. 476 (Daniel's fourth world empire)
*~*~*~*~
There is quite a bit out there on the world wide web about the 400 silent years...here is a sampling of some of what I found:
I can not remember which site - or if it is even one of those listed below - too much data intake - but there was a comment on how when Alexander the Great was going to invade Jerusalem and the priests went out and showed him the prophecy of Daniel and how he fulfilled it...thus, for a time, leaving Jerusalem intact. Now the Jewish nation suffered greatly after Alexander died...his 4 generals squabbled with one another and guess who sat smack dab in the middle of their marching trail? Israel...got spanked time and again by the marauding armies.
I have not read all of this article - but have enjoyed it thus far: www.templemount.org/0240.html
Thought the brief overview offered by this site interesting: www.bibleteacher.org/Dm_os072.htm
During this time there were several institutions which came along:
-The Scribes - laymen who started out to help minister to the spiritual needs of Israel. Became cold in their work and bound up in tradition.
-The Synagogue - with the Temple destroyed the Jews created a place of meeting - 10 men required to start one.
-The Pharisees - conservative orthodox , straight laced, ultra conservative, Biblical literalists - Jewish tradition became their stumbling block.
-The Sadducees - liberal, Hellenistic Jews, go with the flow, wanted riches and fame.
-The Sanhedrin - made up mostly of Sadducees, with sprinkling of Pharisees - members were usually from the higher level of society.
-The Apocrypha - false scriptural writings - good historical data - but rejected for inclusion in the canon of Scripture.
As I was reading and absorbing...the Pharisee and Sadducee dynamics played through my mind...I can almost see some hyper-calvanists as our current day Pharisee or I've encountered a few Reformed folk who seem to think that since they have the doctrine of election down, they are the cat's meow. The attitude of "we've got our doctrine lined up and you don't" appears similar to those of the Pharisee "we've got Abraham as our Father."
While the Sadducee's could be considered the name it, claim it, blab it grab it group - or even the easy believism crowd...or perhaps the seeker friendly churches - those all want to get along, go with the flow, just invite them in - water down the gospel, make it palatable. Don't offend those in authority.
This blog was using the 400 years as a springboard for observing that during the 'silent' times in our lives, God is still at work, even when we do not see and/or perceive that HE is. jthelmsdeep.blogspot.com/2009/03/400-silent-years.html
NOTE - I do not vet websites for their doctrinal content - I am simply seeking information or reference items - it is each of our individual responsibilities to VET the information we take in - I did not perceive anything negative in the articles offered. Remember BE A BEREAN - Acts 17:11.
Friday, September 27, 2013
Day 268-270 ~ 2010
Originally posted in a forum in 2010 - this post may contain links which are no longer valid, if you find a non-working link, please let me know and I will attempt to find a replacement or make a correction as necessary.
Days 268-270
Reformation comes
- Dedication of the wall - Nehemiah 12:27-43; Psalm 147, 148, 149, 150
- Temple defiled - Nehemiah 13:4-5
- Temple order restored - Nehemiah 12:44-47, 13:1-3; Psalm 119, 1
- Nehemiah revisits Babylon - Nehemiah 13:6
- Nehemiah returns to Jerusalem
*Cleanses the temple - Nehemiah 13:7-9
*Tithing re-established - Nehemiah 13:10-14
*Worship re-established - Nehemiah 13:11
*Sabbath keeping violated - Nehemiah 13:15-22
*Marriages to heathen - Nehemiah 13:23-29
* Priesthood cleanses - Nehemiah 13:30-31
Closing days of old testament era
- Birth of Plato - 429 B.C.
- Birth of Malachi - 424 B.C.
- Reign of Darius II of Persia - 423-404 B.C.
- Nehemiah wrote his book - 415 B.C.
- Death of Nehemiah - 405 B.C.
Malachi's prophecy
- The Lord's case against the priests - Malachi 1:1-14; 2:1-17; 3:1-18
- Coming day of the Lord - Malachi 4:1-6
- Death of Malachi - ends Old Testament era - 331 B.C.
*~*~*~*~*
Nehemiah 12:29 - '...for the singers had builded them villages round about Jerusalem.' ~ An artistic community? That was an intriguing thought.
Psalm 147:11 - The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy.
In Psalm 148 and 149 - the word saint caught my eye...hmmm, HE referenced saints in the OT. What is a saint? E-sword to the rescue.
saints - H2623 - From H2616; properly kind, that is, (religiously) pious (a saint). The word saint is used in the Psalms 20 times...and while doing a search, I came across this verse:
Psa 106:16 They envied Moses also in the camp, and Aaron the saint of the LORD.
Aaron is considered a saint of the Lord - this particular Hebrew word is H6918 - From H6942; sacred (ceremonially or morally); (as noun) God (by eminence), an angel, a saint, a sanctuary.
Again the beauty of the Psalms scattered throughout the OT...showing the praise and adoration of those saints to the Lord. Interestingly I noted that the first and last Psalm are contained in these readings.
Another word which caught my attention, praise. In 132 verses it is used 160 times - praise appears to have numerous definitions. In Psalm 150 the word is used 13 times...this particular word:
H1984 - A primitive root; to be clear (originally of sound, but usually of color); to shine; hence to make a show; to boast; and thus to be (clamorously) foolish; to rave; causatively to celebrate; also to stultify.
In Psalm 119:171 - praise H8416 - From H1984; laudation; specifically (concretely) a hymn.
How oft do we praise our Lord and Creator? Daily? In our prayer time with Him, do we begin with a list of wants and needs, or praise and thanksgiving? O Lord, I fall woefully short of giving You all the praise, glory and honor that You deserve, forgive me for my inadequacies and selfishness. Help me Lord to praise You and give a proper estimate of You in our time together.
As I pondered the word praise...I reflected back upon David and the many instances of him crying out to the Lord. I looked up cry - used in the Psalms 30 times...weeping is used 3 times. Jesus was 30 when he began his ministry and did so for 3 years...just a reflection and remembrance.
Nehemiah 13:20 and 28 - I chuckled at Nehemiah's "I will lay hands on you." and "I chased him from me." In today's PC world someone would be suing him for threatening behavior, conduct or conversation. But what a man! Stands up and will not back down. He was going to hold to the standard, regardless. How about us? Do we swear to our own hurt and change not? Hide our light under a bushel. Not speak truth for fear of reprisals? Lord, please give boldness to Your saints to speak forth Your word with truth, compassion and clarity. Lord help each of us to not be frightened of what man can or might do to us...but fear and reverence You more.
Marriages to heathen? How long since Ezra dealt with this issue? Using Reese's dating system it had only been 25 years. One generation (according to general numbers research). One generation - let that sink in...Ezra whooped them for marrying strange wives and in one generation they are back to the same situation. What sins are we committing that God corrected in a previous generation? Are we learning from the mistakes of generation(s) before us?
And Nehemiah is plucking out their hair! That would be considered assault in today's world...they would be hauling him off! What vehemence for the Lord he displays.
Outlandish women - outlandish, what meaneth that? H5237 - From H5235 (second form); strange, in a variety of degrees and applications (foreign, non-relative, adulterous, different, wonderful). H5235 - From H5234; something strange, that is, unexpected calamity.
Coming day of the Lord - Malachi 4:5 - Behold I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord.
I briefly discussed this passage with another saint and my understanding that SOME people think John the Baptist fulfilled this prophecy. I have googled (whatever did we do before google?) and looked at commentaries. Some of the commentaries state that John the Baptist was the fulfillment of this prophecy and the 'great day of the Lord' was his 1st advent. I am leaning towards the prophecy NOT being fulfilled by John the Baptist, because the day of the Lord is (as my understanding goes) the 2nd advent of Jesus Christ. Else why would it be a 'great' and 'dreadful' day.
At Jesus' second return it will be a chilling day of judgment - for those who are not elect - they will be cast into the lake of fire, for eternity.
dreadful - H3372 - A primitive root; to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten.
Here is a site which refutes John the Baptist as being Elijah - www.equip.org/articles/was-john-the-baptist-elijah-
Which is an interesting segue from the Old Testament (are we really done with the OT?) into the time frame preparing us for the coming of the Messiah, and his forerunner, John the Baptist.
May Father richly bless each of you as you take the time, effort and inclination to pray, read and study HIS word. Please be encouraged to stay the course and read, read, read. Also, prayerfully seek to encourage someone else to be in the Word. The time is short, the fields are ripe, we are to give an account for all the resources placed into our hands, including our time.
Blessings ~ Melissa
Days 268-270
Reformation comes
- Dedication of the wall - Nehemiah 12:27-43; Psalm 147, 148, 149, 150
- Temple defiled - Nehemiah 13:4-5
- Temple order restored - Nehemiah 12:44-47, 13:1-3; Psalm 119, 1
- Nehemiah revisits Babylon - Nehemiah 13:6
- Nehemiah returns to Jerusalem
*Cleanses the temple - Nehemiah 13:7-9
*Tithing re-established - Nehemiah 13:10-14
*Worship re-established - Nehemiah 13:11
*Sabbath keeping violated - Nehemiah 13:15-22
*Marriages to heathen - Nehemiah 13:23-29
* Priesthood cleanses - Nehemiah 13:30-31
Closing days of old testament era
- Birth of Plato - 429 B.C.
- Birth of Malachi - 424 B.C.
- Reign of Darius II of Persia - 423-404 B.C.
- Nehemiah wrote his book - 415 B.C.
- Death of Nehemiah - 405 B.C.
Malachi's prophecy
- The Lord's case against the priests - Malachi 1:1-14; 2:1-17; 3:1-18
- Coming day of the Lord - Malachi 4:1-6
- Death of Malachi - ends Old Testament era - 331 B.C.
*~*~*~*~*
Nehemiah 12:29 - '...for the singers had builded them villages round about Jerusalem.' ~ An artistic community? That was an intriguing thought.
Psalm 147:11 - The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy.
In Psalm 148 and 149 - the word saint caught my eye...hmmm, HE referenced saints in the OT. What is a saint? E-sword to the rescue.
saints - H2623 - From H2616; properly kind, that is, (religiously) pious (a saint). The word saint is used in the Psalms 20 times...and while doing a search, I came across this verse:
Psa 106:16 They envied Moses also in the camp, and Aaron the saint of the LORD.
Aaron is considered a saint of the Lord - this particular Hebrew word is H6918 - From H6942; sacred (ceremonially or morally); (as noun) God (by eminence), an angel, a saint, a sanctuary.
Again the beauty of the Psalms scattered throughout the OT...showing the praise and adoration of those saints to the Lord. Interestingly I noted that the first and last Psalm are contained in these readings.
Another word which caught my attention, praise. In 132 verses it is used 160 times - praise appears to have numerous definitions. In Psalm 150 the word is used 13 times...this particular word:
H1984 - A primitive root; to be clear (originally of sound, but usually of color); to shine; hence to make a show; to boast; and thus to be (clamorously) foolish; to rave; causatively to celebrate; also to stultify.
In Psalm 119:171 - praise H8416 - From H1984; laudation; specifically (concretely) a hymn.
How oft do we praise our Lord and Creator? Daily? In our prayer time with Him, do we begin with a list of wants and needs, or praise and thanksgiving? O Lord, I fall woefully short of giving You all the praise, glory and honor that You deserve, forgive me for my inadequacies and selfishness. Help me Lord to praise You and give a proper estimate of You in our time together.
As I pondered the word praise...I reflected back upon David and the many instances of him crying out to the Lord. I looked up cry - used in the Psalms 30 times...weeping is used 3 times.
Jesus was 30 when he began his ministry and did so for 3 years...just a reflection and remembrance.Nehemiah 13:20 and 28 - I chuckled at Nehemiah's "I will lay hands on you." and "I chased him from me." In today's PC world someone would be suing him for threatening behavior, conduct or conversation. But what a man! Stands up and will not back down. He was going to hold to the standard, regardless. How about us? Do we swear to our own hurt and change not? Hide our light under a bushel. Not speak truth for fear of reprisals? Lord, please give boldness to Your saints to speak forth Your word with truth, compassion and clarity. Lord help each of us to not be frightened of what man can or might do to us...but fear and reverence You more.
Marriages to heathen? How long since Ezra dealt with this issue? Using Reese's dating system it had only been 25 years. One generation (according to general numbers research). One generation - let that sink in...Ezra whooped them for marrying strange wives and in one generation they are back to the same situation. What sins are we committing that God corrected in a previous generation? Are we learning from the mistakes of generation(s) before us?
And Nehemiah is plucking out their hair! That would be considered assault in today's world...they would be hauling him off! What vehemence for the Lord he displays.
Outlandish women - outlandish, what meaneth that? H5237 - From H5235 (second form); strange, in a variety of degrees and applications (foreign, non-relative, adulterous, different, wonderful). H5235 - From H5234; something strange, that is, unexpected calamity.
Coming day of the Lord - Malachi 4:5 - Behold I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord.
I briefly discussed this passage with another saint and my understanding that SOME people think John the Baptist fulfilled this prophecy. I have googled (whatever did we do before google?) and looked at commentaries. Some of the commentaries state that John the Baptist was the fulfillment of this prophecy and the 'great day of the Lord' was his 1st advent. I am leaning towards the prophecy NOT being fulfilled by John the Baptist, because the day of the Lord is (as my understanding goes) the 2nd advent of Jesus Christ. Else why would it be a 'great' and 'dreadful' day.
At Jesus' second return it will be a chilling day of judgment - for those who are not elect - they will be cast into the lake of fire, for eternity.
dreadful - H3372 - A primitive root; to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten.
Here is a site which refutes John the Baptist as being Elijah - www.equip.org/articles/was-john-the-baptist-elijah-
Which is an interesting segue from the Old Testament (are we really done with the OT?) into the time frame preparing us for the coming of the Messiah, and his forerunner, John the Baptist.
May Father richly bless each of you as you take the time, effort and inclination to pray, read and study HIS word. Please be encouraged to stay the course and read, read, read. Also, prayerfully seek to encourage someone else to be in the Word. The time is short, the fields are ripe, we are to give an account for all the resources placed into our hands, including our time.
Blessings ~ Melissa
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Day 266-267 ~ 2010
Originally posted in a forum in 2010 - this post may contain links which are no longer valid, if you find a non-working link, please let me know and I will attempt to find a replacement or make a correction as necessary.
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Days 263-264 ~ 2010
Originally posted in a forum in 2010 - this post may contain links which are no longer valid, if you find a non-working link, please let me know and I will attempt to find a replacement or make a correction as necessary.
Instead check out this link for a graphic I found:Day 263-264 ~ 2010
Originally posted in a forum in 2010 - this post may contain links which are no longer valid, if you find a non-working link, please let me know and I will attempt to find a replacement or make a correction as necessary.
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Day 262 ~ 2010
Originally posted in a forum in 2010 - this post may contain links which are no longer valid, if you find a non-working link, please let me know and I will attempt to find a replacement or make a correction as necessary.
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Day 261 ~ 2010
Originally posted in a forum in 2010 - this post may contain links which are no longer valid, if you find a non-working link, please let me know and I will attempt to find a replacement or make a correction as necessary.
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Day 260 ~ 2010
Originally posted in a forum in 2010 - this post may contain links which are no longer valid, if you find a non-working link, please let me know and I will attempt to find a replacement or make a correction as necessary.
Monday, September 16, 2013
Day 259 ~ 2010
Originally posted in a forum in 2010 - this post may contain links which are no longer valid, if you find a non-working link, please let me know and I will attempt to find a replacement or make a correction as necessary.
Sunday, September 15, 2013
Day 258 ~ 2010
Originally posted in a forum in 2010 - this post may contain links which are no longer valid, if you find a non-working link, please let me know and I will attempt to find a replacement or make a correction as necessary.
Saturday, September 14, 2013
Day 257 ~ 2010
Originally posted in a forum in 2010 - this post may contain links which are no longer valid, if you find a non-working link, please let me know and I will attempt to find a replacement or make a correction as necessary.
Day 257
Opposition to the building - Tatnai and Shethar-Boznai's question - Ezra 5:3-4
Adversaries appeal to Darius - Ezra 5:5-17
*Co-operation of Tatnai and Shethar-Boznai
Fasting 519 B.C.
- Question - Zechariah 7:1-4
- Lord's reply - Zechariah 7:5-14; 8:1-23
Temple is completed - 517 or 516 B.C. - Ezra 6:15
*~*~*~~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Ezra 5 and 6 - God of heaven, repeated 4 times (5:11 and 12, 6:9 and 10)
~ God - H426 - (Chaldee); corresponding to H433; God: - God, god. H433 - (The second form is rare); probably prolonged (emphatically) from H410; a deity or the deity:
~ heaven - H8065 - (Chaldee); corresponding to H8064: - heaven. H8064 - The second form being dual of an unused singular; from an unused root meaning to be lofty; the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies revolve.
Chapter 5 - the enemies of the Jews are repeating...Darius is acknowledging. In verse 11 of chapter 6 - Darius fulfils God's decree of ensuring that HIS temple will be built. Man can not thwart the plan of God.
Man devises - Pro 19:21 There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.
God plans - Pro 21:1 The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.
And...uses the wicked to fulfill his purposes Ezra 6:13-14
*Tatnai - that gives; the overseer of the gifts and tributes
*Shethar-Boznai - that makes to rot; that seeks those who despise me
Zechariah 7:5-6 - rebuke to the people for fasting in deed, but not in faith. What are we doing in the flesh, thinking it is pleasing to the Lord, yet w/out love, in truth, humbly submitted to the Spirit? What works will we lay before HIM that will withstand the fire of HIS review? Will we only be left with the foundation? The Lord and Savior Christ Jesus?
Day 257
Opposition to the building - Tatnai and Shethar-Boznai's question - Ezra 5:3-4
Adversaries appeal to Darius - Ezra 5:5-17
*Co-operation of Tatnai and Shethar-Boznai
Fasting 519 B.C.
- Question - Zechariah 7:1-4
- Lord's reply - Zechariah 7:5-14; 8:1-23
Temple is completed - 517 or 516 B.C. - Ezra 6:15
*~*~*~~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Ezra 5 and 6 - God of heaven, repeated 4 times (5:11 and 12, 6:9 and 10)
~ God - H426 - (Chaldee); corresponding to H433; God: - God, god. H433 - (The second form is rare); probably prolonged (emphatically) from H410; a deity or the deity:
~ heaven - H8065 - (Chaldee); corresponding to H8064: - heaven. H8064 - The second form being dual of an unused singular; from an unused root meaning to be lofty; the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies revolve.
Chapter 5 - the enemies of the Jews are repeating...Darius is acknowledging. In verse 11 of chapter 6 - Darius fulfils God's decree of ensuring that HIS temple will be built. Man can not thwart the plan of God.
Man devises - Pro 19:21 There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.
God plans - Pro 21:1 The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.
And...uses the wicked to fulfill his purposes Ezra 6:13-14
*Tatnai - that gives; the overseer of the gifts and tributes
*Shethar-Boznai - that makes to rot; that seeks those who despise me
Zechariah 7:5-6 - rebuke to the people for fasting in deed, but not in faith. What are we doing in the flesh, thinking it is pleasing to the Lord, yet w/out love, in truth, humbly submitted to the Spirit? What works will we lay before HIM that will withstand the fire of HIS review? Will we only be left with the foundation? The Lord and Savior Christ Jesus?
Friday, September 13, 2013
Day 256 ~ 2010
Originally posted in a forum in 2010 - this post may contain links which are no longer valid, if you find a non-working link, please let me know and I will attempt to find a replacement or make a correction as necessary.
Day 256
Work on temple to resume (Ezra 4:24) - 521 B.C. - Haggai 2:10-19
Future kingdoms to be overthrown - Haggai 2:20-23
Zechariah's vision - 521 B.C. - Zechariah 1:7-13
Instructions to Zechariah - Zechariah 1:14-17
Zerubbabel to complete temple - Zechariah 4:6-10
Visions of Zechariah - the four horns and four carpenters - Zechariah 1:18-21
The high priest (Joshua) picture of the atonement of Christ - Zechariah 3:1-10
Golden candlestick and two olive trees - Zechariah 4:1-14
Flying roll and ephah - Zechariah 5:1-11
Four chariots - Zechariah 6:1-8
Symbolic crowning of Joshua - Zechariah 6:9-15
~*~*~*~*
Commentary by Jameson, Fosset and Brown - Hag 2:22 All other world kingdoms are to be overthrown to make way for Christ’s universal kingdom (Dan_2:44). War chariots are to give place to His reign of peace (Mic_5:10; Zec_9:10).
God how my heart weeps for my nation...I can only imagine how utterly distressed Jeremiah's heart was for his nation, which at least had the distinction of being chosen by God. My nation does not even have that...we are just another gentile or heathen nation. Which also causes me to reflect on our persecuted brethren who live in countries which are violently opposed to the Truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and they risk their lives daily - for a mere morsel of the Word of God. O' what condemnation will fall upon those who have ready access to the Word and yet treat it contemptuously? or without regard?
~ Because my heart is heavy with the impending doom of the gentile nations, specifically, our nation. Zechariah 1:21 "...to cast out the horns of the Gentiles..." John Gill's commentary: to cast out the horns of the Gentiles; to destroy their kingdoms, and take away their power from them:
Zechariah 3:2 - And the Lord said unto Satan, the Lord rebuke thee, O Satan; even the Lord that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: is not this a brand plucked out of the fire. - This phrase 'the Lord rebuke you' is only used twice in all of the Bible. Here and in Jude 1:9.
~ rebuke - H1605 - A primitive root; to chide: - corrupt, rebuke, reprove.
G2008 - From G1909 and G5091; to tax upon, that is, censure or admonish; by implication forbid: - (straitly) charge, rebuke.
I thought this interesting: Zephaniah 5:9 '...two women, and the wind was in their wings; for they had wings like the wings of a stork:" ~ Normally all angels are referred to as male...never as female, contrary to most of the presentation of 'angels' in our society. I have to ponder this passage...the commentaries I consulted differed in their interpretation and have caused perplexity. I reviewed Gill, Henry, FJB, Wesley and Poole...still do not get it.
Zechariah 6:2-3 ~ Horses: red, black, white and grisled/bay. Revelation mentions red, black and pale...the only white horse is the the one our victorious Lord sits upon.
~ Joshua - H3091 - From H3068 and H3467; Jehovah-saved; Jehoshua (that is, Joshua), the Jewish leader: - Jehoshua, Jehoshuah, Joshua. Compare H1954, H3442.
Wesley commentary - Zec 6:11 Make crowns - One of silver, the other of gold. Set them - Put both of them, one after another. Joshua - Who herein is now a type of Christ, king and priest for ever for his people.
Zechariah 6:15 - "...if you diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God." Hmmm...that if sounds conditional, attempted to research it in Zodhiates...but not specific...the gist of this is diligently - obey - HIS voice.
if - H518 - A primitive particle; used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogitive, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also Oh that!, when; hence as a negative, not:
diligently obey - H8085 - A primitive root; to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively to tell, etc.): AND I thought it interesting that these 2 words were coupled together (diligently obeyH8085 H8085) and the double emphasis of the Hebrew word H8085. Hmmm...whap, whap, 'are you listening to me?"
voice - H6963 - From an unused root meaning to call aloud; a voice or sound:
Father, grant us, thy sheep, the ability to hear Your voice...and to diligently obey it.
Day 256
Work on temple to resume (Ezra 4:24) - 521 B.C. - Haggai 2:10-19
Future kingdoms to be overthrown - Haggai 2:20-23
Zechariah's vision - 521 B.C. - Zechariah 1:7-13
Instructions to Zechariah - Zechariah 1:14-17
Zerubbabel to complete temple - Zechariah 4:6-10
Visions of Zechariah - the four horns and four carpenters - Zechariah 1:18-21
The high priest (Joshua) picture of the atonement of Christ - Zechariah 3:1-10
Golden candlestick and two olive trees - Zechariah 4:1-14
Flying roll and ephah - Zechariah 5:1-11
Four chariots - Zechariah 6:1-8
Symbolic crowning of Joshua - Zechariah 6:9-15
~*~*~*~*
Commentary by Jameson, Fosset and Brown - Hag 2:22 All other world kingdoms are to be overthrown to make way for Christ’s universal kingdom (Dan_2:44). War chariots are to give place to His reign of peace (Mic_5:10; Zec_9:10).
God how my heart weeps for my nation...I can only imagine how utterly distressed Jeremiah's heart was for his nation, which at least had the distinction of being chosen by God. My nation does not even have that...we are just another gentile or heathen nation. Which also causes me to reflect on our persecuted brethren who live in countries which are violently opposed to the Truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and they risk their lives daily - for a mere morsel of the Word of God. O' what condemnation will fall upon those who have ready access to the Word and yet treat it contemptuously? or without regard?
~ Because my heart is heavy with the impending doom of the gentile nations, specifically, our nation. Zechariah 1:21 "...to cast out the horns of the Gentiles..." John Gill's commentary: to cast out the horns of the Gentiles; to destroy their kingdoms, and take away their power from them:
Zechariah 3:2 - And the Lord said unto Satan, the Lord rebuke thee, O Satan; even the Lord that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: is not this a brand plucked out of the fire. - This phrase 'the Lord rebuke you' is only used twice in all of the Bible. Here and in Jude 1:9.
~ rebuke - H1605 - A primitive root; to chide: - corrupt, rebuke, reprove.
G2008 - From G1909 and G5091; to tax upon, that is, censure or admonish; by implication forbid: - (straitly) charge, rebuke.
I thought this interesting: Zephaniah 5:9 '...two women, and the wind was in their wings; for they had wings like the wings of a stork:" ~ Normally all angels are referred to as male...never as female, contrary to most of the presentation of 'angels' in our society. I have to ponder this passage...the commentaries I consulted differed in their interpretation and have caused perplexity. I reviewed Gill, Henry, FJB, Wesley and Poole...still do not get it.
Zechariah 6:2-3 ~ Horses: red, black, white and grisled/bay. Revelation mentions red, black and pale...the only white horse is the the one our victorious Lord sits upon.
~ Joshua - H3091 - From H3068 and H3467; Jehovah-saved; Jehoshua (that is, Joshua), the Jewish leader: - Jehoshua, Jehoshuah, Joshua. Compare H1954, H3442.
Wesley commentary - Zec 6:11 Make crowns - One of silver, the other of gold. Set them - Put both of them, one after another. Joshua - Who herein is now a type of Christ, king and priest for ever for his people.
Zechariah 6:15 - "...if you diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God." Hmmm...that if sounds conditional, attempted to research it in Zodhiates...but not specific...the gist of this is diligently - obey - HIS voice.
if - H518 - A primitive particle; used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogitive, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also Oh that!, when; hence as a negative, not:
diligently obey - H8085 - A primitive root; to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively to tell, etc.): AND I thought it interesting that these 2 words were coupled together (diligently obeyH8085 H8085) and the double emphasis of the Hebrew word H8085. Hmmm...whap, whap, 'are you listening to me?"
voice - H6963 - From an unused root meaning to call aloud; a voice or sound:
Father, grant us, thy sheep, the ability to hear Your voice...and to diligently obey it.
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