To Lent or reLent?

To Lent or reLent? Some thoughts on a recent post at The Gospel Coalition

In Reformed Baptist Fellowship on Thursday, February 14, 2013 at 5:23 pm

 

Recently, The Gospel Coalition (TGC) site posted a blog entry entitled – “Lent Is About Jesus: A Free Devotional Guide.” No, I did not make that up. You can read the whole thing here. As I read the post and thought about it a bit, I concluded I would like to respond to it. So, as many of you do on various blogs, I sent a comment to that post. Before sending the comment, however, I sent copies of my response to a few friends, just to make sure I was responding correctly and clearly. They encouraged me to post my thoughts. Here is (below) what I sent to TGC’s site, which is still awaiting moderation, even though there has been at least one comment posted after I sent mine, I received notice of that post via email, and there were, at one point this afternoon, 25 comments and now there are only 24, as of 2:41pm Pacific time. I hope that changes, but in case it does not (which will not be the first time my comments at TGC have been deleted, if, in fact, that is the case), here it is.

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This is not helpful to me as an individual or, especially, as a pastor. It creates more work for me.

Though there are many, many problems I have with this post, I will share but two.

First, moralizing John’s preparatory ministry is terrible–hermeneutically, theologically, and practically. Your post says:

“At the onset of Jesus’ ministry, John announced his coming in fulfillment of Isaiah 40: “In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.” This is the cry of Lent: Prepare the way of the Lord! Make room for him in your thoughts and activities and affections.”

This goes against, for example, what Dr. Carson’s Commentary of the New Testament Use of the Old Testament advocates (and I think rightly). The Gospels narrate these kinds of things for us because they are telling us what happened in fulfillment of the OT and in relation to John the Baptist and the incarnation and ministry (i.e., His sufferings and glory) of Christ. Drawing these kinds of “practical” applications from these types of texts is simply wrong. The Epistles are God’s theological commentary upon and ecclesiastical applications of some of the events depicted for us in the Gospels. Nowhere do we see John’s preparatory ministry interpreted and applied as your post does in the Epistles (or anywhere else in the Bible). The fact of the matter is this: The way has already been prepared for the Lord by John and in fulfillment of God’s Word via Isaiah. We don’t “Prepare the way of the Lord!” John already did that. We can certainly gain confidence in the veracity of the Word of God due to this and connect the dots between the OT, John, and Jesus; but to tell people “Make room for him in your thoughts and activities and affections” based on John’s preparatory ministry is, at best, naive and at worst, a moralizing/allegorizing of a text that ends up creating new laws for God’s people–laws invented by man. “God alone is Lord of the conscience.”

Second, the following words are very troubling to me:

“The practice of giving something up for Lent is a way of entering into the wilderness with Jesus. Don’t worry about whether your sacrifice is a good one. It’s not a contest. Just make your aim to know Christ more fully, and trust him to lead you.”

“…entering into the wilderness with Jesus”? What does that mean and where has God revealed that it is His will for us to enter such? The fact is that Christ already entered the wilderness for us and won! This statement betrays a hermeneutic that is too horizontal, allegorizing, and misses the point of Christ’s wilderness experience. He was driven there to be tempted as our representative and win; unlike Adam in the garden and Israel in the wilderness, Jesus does not give-in to the devil.

TGC brothers, this post makes more work for local church pastors. It is destructive. It erodes confidence in those involved with TGC. Recently a Mark Driscoll interviewwas posted on TGC blog where he gave somewhat of a “pass” to Joel Osteen. Check thisout by Mark Dever. This is what we need from TGC; a clear sound for truth and against error.

I hope you will consider these things in the spirit they are intended. I think this post should be deleted and a humble apology posted in its place.

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Richard Barcellos

Grace Reformed Baptist Church

Paldmale, CA

www.grbcav.org

Days 55 through 59 - 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.

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I have been reading!  Have not had the time to sit down, collect my thoughts and share. So much news in the world of hurt and destruction, death and despair.

I am SO thankful that Father has given me a hope that is eternal, that will not fade away. That nothing can separate me from HIM. That HE is with me regardless of where I am or what trials, tribulations or tests HE is allowing in my life. All designed to refine and draw me ever closer to HIM.

Truly, even in the midst of difficult times, HE is and always will be a GOOD GOD.

Days 55-59 - HIGHLIGHTS - Moses complains (can you imagine?)

Miriam gets too big for her britches and Father disciplines her (sooo glad HE disciplines me - hopefully NEVER like that!)

Plague of quail (can you imagine the multitude of feathered bodies?)

Spies bring back a bad report (looking at the circumstances and not the DELIVERER - oh Lord forgive me when I fall short in this area and do the same thing!)

Cursed from entering the land - O Lord, where has my unbelief in You and Your sovereign plan for my life fallen short?

and then they try to go forward and go in - the flesh in action...Lord help me to keep my flesh in subjection to You!

Repentance? Too little, too late - how often do I do this?

Korah - Dathan rebel - the earth swallows them up! I can not even imagine what it would be like to watch the earth open her mouth suck someone and all their belongings into it and then close up. I would be terrified beyond belief - how humbled am I by seeing the rebellion of others and knowing that except for the grace of God I would be just as rebellious and hard hearted?

Aaron's rod budded - I always am amazed at this passage - 12 almond branches, but off, placed in the tabernacle, only 1 buds and produces fruit. I have yet to see something cut from and not placed in water or growing medium, bud and then produce fruit - in one night? Only by the omniscient hand of a living God could this occur. He has cut me off from the synagogue of satan and placed me in HIS righteousness, is continuing to cause me to bud and produce fruit. How awesome.

Levitical responsibilities - as priests of the Most High God - where and what am I to be doing to fully represent HIM accurately and honestly in all areas of my life?

Years of wandering - 40 years - a cloud by day, a pillar by night - 40 long years, waiting for people to die off, 20 and upward - anyone under 20 was allowed to go into the land.

Whine and complain again? No water? Thank you Lord that you are the living water that refreshes our souls day by day.

Moses and Aaron disobedient - Aaron was denied access to the promised land based on this act of rebellion. I have missed this in years past - think of all that he did, golden calf, murmuring against Moses' wife and this in the act which did him in. Moses as well - he heard God say, "...take your rod and SPEAK to the rock...." in a previous time Moses was instructed to strike the a rock - but not this time. How often do I 'hear' God (i.e. HIS WORD) and think I understand what HE wants me to do and have totally missed it?

Aaron dies - Eleazar becomes high priest (note the high priest had to DIE before he could be replaced) - people murmur AGAIN! Father sends fiery serpents to chastise them - a serpent of bronze is made and used to heal those who have been bitten.

God gave them victories as they traveled - how oft do I forget the victories that Father has blessed me with, rather choosing to dwell on what is not right, or worse reflecting on what is missing from my life or what I am not getting, when I want it, how I want it, etc. etc.

O Lord, thank You that You are a gracious and merciful High Priest, that You died and came back to life. That You live to ever make intercession for this weak, fallible flesh. Thank You Father for sending Your son to be the Passover lamb, slain from the foundation of the world. Thank You that You have and never will leave or forsake me. That you have raised me up, not because of who I am, but because of who You are. Lord help me to remember that this season of life, caught in the box of time, lasts only a very short time, that eternity calls...and that while I am on this side of glory I am to be growing closer and deeper in love with You - giving a proper estimate of who YOU are in all that I say, do and think.

May the manifold blessings of our Father touch your heart this day - may HE draw you closer each and every second of every minute. May the passion and desire of your heart be to give a worthy reflection of HIM as you travel this land as HIS ambassador.

Week 7 - 2013

Romans 13-14

This portion of the verse resonated within me:

Romans 14:23b - for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.

Browsed the commentaries...

Jamieson, Fausett and Brown:  for whatsoever is not of faith is sin — a maxim of unspeakable importance in the Christian life.

Matthew Poole: Whatever a man doth with a wavering mind, without being persuaded that it is pleasing to God, and warranted by His word, he sinneth in the doing of it. Though we may nourish doubts and scruples, yet we must not act against them. An erring conscience binds us to act nothing contrary to it: he sins that doth any thing against it, though the fact or thing done should not be sinful.  (He then references this passage:)

Heb 11:6  But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Cross reference in my Bible:

Tit 1:15  Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled.

Which brought to mind this passage:

Jas_1:8  A double minded man is unstable in all his ways. 

Genesis 24-27

Genesis 24 - Servant qualities - I think I've 'camped' on these before, but obviously I need a refresher course!

Hand Under Thigh (Gen 24:2, 9)
Swear by the Lord (Gen 24:3, 9)
Go/Went (Gen 24:4, 10)
Pray (Gen 24:2 H4994; Gen 24:14 H4994)
Take (Gen 24:4, 61)

H4994 - A primitive particle of incitement and entreaty, which may usually be rendered I pray, now or then; added mostly to verbs (in the imperative or future), or to interjections, occasionally to an adverb or conjugation: - I beseech (pray) thee (you), go to, now, oh.

Something else which 'caught' my eye was this verse:

Gen 24:16  And the damsel was very fair to look upon, a virgin, neither had any man known her: and she went down to the well, and filled her pitcher, and came up.

I would assume that virgin meant never known a man...so why the clarification?  Gill's commentary on the verse:

And the damsel was very fair to look upon,.... Of a good countenance and beautiful aspect: a virgin: 

neither had any man known her; not only was reckoned a virgin, but was really one, pure and incorrupt:
Judges 7-11


Jdg 8:27  And Gideon made an ephod thereof, and put it in his city, even in Ophrah: and all Israel went thither a whoring after it: which thing became a snare unto Gideon, and to his house.

Sooo...what in my life is an idol?  What is an idol?

The word is first used:

1 Kings 15:13 - And also Maachah his mother, even her he removed from being queen, because she had made an idol in a grove; and Asa destroyed her idol, and burnt it by the brook Kidron. 

H4656 - From H6426; a terror, that is, an idol: - idol.

• H6426 - A primitive root; properly perhaps to rend, that is, (by implication) to quiver: - tremble.

Quick definition from GotQuestions:  Idolatry extends beyond the worship of idols and images and false gods. Our modern idols are many and varied. Even for those who do not bow physically before a statue, idolatry is a matter of the heart—pride, self-centeredness, greed, gluttony, a love for possessions and ultimately rebellion against God. Is it any wonder that God hates it?

Chapter 9 - noted about Shechem in verse 3 - wondering if this is the same place as Hamor which raped Dinah.

Next verse...vows.  Oh...Lord, help me to be very careful with my words!

Jdg 11:31  Then it shall be, that whatsoever cometh forth of the doors of my house to meet me, when I return in peace from the children of Ammon, shall surely be the LORD'S, and I will offer it up for a burnt offering. 

Jephthan used this phrase: opened my mouth

Gill: for I have opened my mouth unto the Lord; in a vow; not only had purposed it in his heart, but had expressed it with his lips: 

Vow - H5088 - From H5087; a promise (to God); also (concretely) a thing promised: - vow ([-ed]).

• H5087 - A primitive root; to promise (positively, to do or give something to God): - (make a) vow.

Psalm 18-20


Psa 18:25  With the merciful thou wilt shew thyself merciful; with an upright man thou wilt shew thyself upright;

Psa 18:26  With the pure thou wilt shew thyself pure; and with the froward (H6141) thou wilt shew thyself froward (H6617).

H6141 - From H6140; distorted; hence false: - crooked, froward, perverse.

• H6140 - A primitive root; to knot or distort; figuratively to pervert (act or declare perverse): - make crooked, (prove, that is) perverse (-rt)

H6617 - A primitive root; to twine, that is, (literally) to struggle or (figuratively) be (morally) tortuous: - (shew self) froward, shew self unsavoury, wrestle.

Gill on the froward: and with the froward thou wilt show thyself froward; or "thou wrestlest" (b), or wilt contend with them until they are destroyed: the same word is here used which Naphtali has his name from, Gen_30:8. The froward are such as are of perverse dispositions, and of stubborn and obstinate tempers, and whose ways are crooked and distorted; and such were the people of the Jews in the times of Moses, and of Christ, Deu_32:5; and who seem here to be designed; even the Jews in Christ's time, who were just the reverse of the above characters, were cruel and unmerciful, faithless and hypocritical, filthy and pure, disbelieved the Messiah, rejected and crucified him, were contrary to God, and to all men; and therefore God walked contrary to them, as he threatened, Lev_26:27; the same as showing himself froward to them; for God is not froward and perverse in himself, nor in his ways, which are all equal, just, and pure: and though there is one and the same word used in our version, yet there are two different words in the Hebrew text; the same word that is used of the froward is not used of God; that which is used of God, as before observed, signifies wrestling, and designs God's contending with the people of the Jews, in a way of wrath and fury, which came upon them to the uttermost, and issued in their entire ruin as a people and nation; the words here had their fulfilment in the destruction of Jerusalem. 

Psa 19:7  The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. 

Psa 19:8  The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. 

Psa 19:9  The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. 

Some of the words which 'jumped' out at me in this passage:

Law - H8451 - From H3384; a precept or statute, especially the Decalogue or Pentateuch: - law

• H3384 - A primitive root; properly to flow as water (that is, to rain); transitively to lay or throw (especially an arrow, that is, to shoot); figuratively to point out (as if by aiming the finger), to teach: -  (+) archer, cast, direct, inform, instruct, lay, shew, shoot, teach (-er, -ing), through.

Testimony - H5715 - Feminine of H5707; testimony: - testimony, witness.

• H5707 - From H5749 contracted; concretely a witness; abstractly testimony; specifically a recorder, that is, prince: - witness.
• H5749 - A primitive root; to duplicate or repeat; by implication to protest, testify (as by reiteration); intensively to encompass, restore (as a sort of reduplication).

Statutes - H6490 - From H6485; properly appointed, that is, a mandate (of God; plural only, collectively for the Law): - commandment, precept, statute.

• H6485 - A primitive root; to visit (with friendly or hostile intent); by analogy to oversee, muster, charge, care for, miss, deposit, etc.

Commandment - G4687 - From H6680; a command, whether human or divine (collectively the Law): - (which was) commanded (-ment), law, ordinance, precept.

• H6680 - A primitive root; (intensively) to constitute, enjoin.

Judgments - H4941 - From H8199; properly a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (particularly) divine law, individual or collectively), including the act, the place, the suit, the crime, and the penalty; abstractly justice, including a particular right, or privilege (statutory or customary), or even a style.

• H8199 - A primitive root; to judge, that is, pronounce sentence (for or against); by implication to vindicate or punish; by extension to govern; passively to litigate (literally or figuratively)

Job 13-14

Job 13:15  Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him.

Maintain mine own ways?

Gill: but I will maintain mine own ways before him; or "to his face" (n); though I die on the spot instantly, I will stand by it, and make it appear that the ways I have walked in are right, that I have behaved as a sincere upright man, a man fearing God, and eschewing evil; a character which God himself has given of me, and I have not forfeited it: "I will argue" or "prove" (o) it before him, as it may be rendered; that my life and conversation has been agreeable to my profession of him; that my ways have been according to his revealed will, and my walk as becoming the character I bear; and this I will maintain and support as long as I live; I will never depart from this sentiment, or let go my integrity to my latest breath; see Job_27:5; but the marginal reading seems best, "yet will I trust in him" (p)? verily I will, though I am under cutting and slaying providences, under sore afflictions, which may be called killing and slaying, or death itself; though there is an addition of them, one affliction upon another, and sorrow upon sorrow; though I am killed continually, all the day long, or die by inches; yea, though in the article of death itself, yet even then "will I trust" and hope: God only is the object of trust and confidence, and not a creature, or any creature enjoyment, or creature act; and great encouragement there is to trust in him, seeing in him is everlasting strength, to fulfil his promises, to help in time of need, and to save with an everlasting salvation; he is to be trusted in at all times, in times of affliction, temptation, desertion, and death itself: it may be rendered (q), "I will hope in him", since there is mercy and plenteous redemption with him, and he delights in those that hope in his mercy; his eye is upon them, and his heart is towards them: or "I will wait for him", or "expect him" (r); wait for deliverance by him, wait all the days of his appointed time, till his change come; wait for the hope of righteousness by faith, expect all needful grace from him now, and eternal glory and happiness hereafter: "but" notwithstanding his trust was alone in God for time and eternity, yet, says he, "I will maintain mine own ways before him"; that I am not an hypocrite, or have behaved as a bad man; but have acted under the influence of grace, according to his mind and will revealed.

Isaiah 34-39


Isa 35:4  Say to them that are of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompence; he will come and save you.

Thank GOD!

Matthew 17-19

Mat 18:3  And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.

converted - G4762 - Strengthened from the base of G5157; to twist, that is, turn quite around or reverse (literally or figuratively): - convert, turn (again, back again, self, self about).

• G5157 - From an apparently primary word τρέπω trepō (to turn); a turn (“trope”), that is, revolution (figuratively variation)

Mat 18:35  So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.

brother - G80 - From G1 (as a connective particle) and δελφύς delphus (the womb); a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like [H1]): - brother.

• G1 - Of Hebrew origin; the first letter of the alphabet: figuratively only (from its use as a numeral) the first. Often used (usually “an”, before a vowel) also in composition (as a contraction from G427) in the sense of privation; so in many words beginning with this letter; occasionally in the sense of union (as a contraction of G260)
• H1 - A primitive word; father in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application:

Lord, help me to retain what I've learned as I've 'plowed' through this week's reading.  Help me Lord to be diligent to hear You in Your Word, to be examined by Your Word, to receive correction, admonishment, clarification, encouragement.  Help me Lord to be a willing vessel in Your hands.

Day 54 - 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.

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Day 54 * Exodus 33 - journey resumes * Deuteronomy 1 - Moses recommissioned * Numbers 10 - From Sinai to Kadesh-Barnea, order of the divisions, Moses seeks assistance from father in law * Exodus 40/Numbers 9 - Cloud by day, fire by night * Numbers 10/11 - Fire at Taberah * Numbers 33 - arrival at Kibroth * Numbers 11 - murmuring about manna. Pondering how Israel did not move unless God moved first - how oft do I not wait upon the Lord and HIS direction prior to going forward? Complaining and murmuring - some of the people were consumed by fire by God for their complaining. What is HE burning up in my life because I am not content, or chose to be complaining and murmuring? Lord, let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in thy sight. NOTE: The resource I am using for the scripture passages and paragraph headings are taken from: The Reese Chronological Bible.

Day 53 - 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.

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Day 53 ~ Children of Israel reminded to keep Passover - this includes instructions for those who are unable to participate in the Passover due to being ceremonially unclean ~ preparing to leave Sinai, numbering the people ~ arrangement of the camp (general order): Eastern division (Judah, Issachar, Zebulun); Southern division (Reuben, Simeon, Gad); Western division (Ephraim, Manasseh, Benjamin); Northern division (Dan, Asher and Naphtali).

Information on Mount Sinai - www.wyattmuseum.com/mount-sinai.htm

I have tried to attach a picture of the camp layout - taken from this website:

images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://e...US298%26tbs%3Disch:1

I do not know anything about the website - I thought the graphic was useful.

Quote

‎"Yes, my reader, it is possible to work in the name of Christ, and even to preach in His name, and though the world knows us, and the Church knows us, yet to be unknown to the Lord! How necessary it is then to find out where we really are; to examine ourselves to see whether we be in the faith; to measure ourselves by the Word of God and see if we are being deceived by our subtle Enemy; to find out whether we are building our house upon the sand, or whether it is erected on the Rock which is Christ Jesus." ~ A.W. Pink

Days 51 and 52 - 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.

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Day 51 and 52 ~ Conduct of God's people (Lev 19 and 20) ~ spiritual and physical qualifications for priests (did you know that as born again believers we are considered priests?) ~ sacrifices for altars ~ death penalty for blasphemy (would not everyone watch better what they say if this was still in place?) ~ murder penalties ~ camp laws ~ vow of Nazarites. I have been pondering the feasts of the Lord. I have a book by Robin Scarlata and Linda Pierce on the Biblical Holidays - here is what I have refreshed myself with: Spring Feasts Passover (Pesach) - Nisan 14 - Jesus was the Passover Lamb. Unleavened Bread - Nisan 15 - Jesus is the "Bread of Life". Day of Firstfruits - Nisan 17 - Jesus is the First Fruit - He arose from the dead. Feast of Weeks (Shavuot/Pentecost) - 50 days after Firstfuits - Holy Spirit promised. Fall Feasts Feast of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah) - Tishri 1 - Jewish New Year Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) - Tishri 10 - in the OT the priest entered into the Holy of Holies - which seems to indicate it has already been fulfilled. If Jesus is sitting at the right hand of God, would not HIS work be complete? Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkoth) - Tishri 15 - Christ is our tabernacle - is HE not tabernacling with men now by indwelling them? All of the Spring feasts are complete - I had thought that the fall feasts were to be fulfilled at Christ's coming, however, I am not sure as it would appear that Atonement and Tabernacles would be completed. Please jump in with any information, insight or words of wisdom that you have on the subject. Blessings~Melissa

Day 50 - 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.

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Day 50 - Moral instructions and familiar spirits and then...

Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Sound the trumpet - declare the captives FREE! Hallelujah! Amazingly in Father's providential provision day 50 coincides with the listing of HIS feasts. Amazing!

National feast day ~ Passover ~ Unleavened Bread ~ First-Fruits ~ Wave Loaves (Pentecost {another 50}) ~ Trumpets ~ Day of Atonement ~ Tabernacles.

7 feasts - all designed to point Israel forward to a coming of the Messiah - the one who would fulfill all the feasts - a yearly reminder to look forward to the ONE who would be the Passover lamb, taking away sin.

I would thoroughly enjoy an in-depth study on the feasts - praying for that to happen. Hope all are blessed as you read Father's word!

Blessings,

Melissa

Week 6 - 2013

Romans 11-12

Romans 12:3 - For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

This made me think of this passage:

Matthew 22:39  And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

Which doesn't mean we don't love ourselves NOT enough - it means we don't love others as MUCH as we already love ourselves.

Romans 12:9 - Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.

Romans 12:10 - Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;

dissimulation - G505 - From G1 (as a negative particle) and a presumed derivative of G5271; undissembled, that is, sincere: - without dissimulation (hypocrisy), unfeigned.

• G5271 - Middle voice from G5259 and G2919; to decide (speak or act) under a false part, that is, (figuratively) dissemble (pretend): - feign.

affectioned - G5387 - From G5384 and στοργή storgē (cherishing one’s kindred, especially parents or children); fond of natural relatives, that is, fraternal towards fellow Christians: - kindly affectioned.

• G5384 - Properly dear, that is, a friend; actively fond, that is, friendly (still as a noun, an associate, neighbor, etc.): - friend.

Genesis 20-23

Genesis 21:14 - And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and took bread, and a bottle of water, and gave it unto Hagar, putting it on her shoulder, and the child, and sent her away: and she departed, and wandered in the wilderness of Beersheba.

Genesis 21:19 - And God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water; and she went, and filled the bottle with water, and gave the lad drink. 

This captured my attention - AGAIN - because of Hagar and water...He always provides...even to those who are outside the camp.  It rains on the just and the unjust.

Judges 1-6

Judges 5:24 - Blessed above women shall Jael the wife of Heber the Kenite be, blessed shall she be above women in the tent.

Made me think about the other times women and the word blessed are used together:

Ruth 4:14  And the women said unto Naomi, Blessed be the LORD, which hath not left thee this day without a kinsman, that his name may be famous in Israel.

Luke 1:28  And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. 

Luke 1:42  And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. 

Psalms 15-17

Job 11-12

Isaiah 29-33

Isaiah 29:1 - Woe to Ariel, to Ariel, the city where David dwelt! add ye year to year; let them kill sacrifices.

Ariel means?

H740 - The same as H739; Ariel, a symbolical name for Jerusalem, also the name of an Israelite: - Ariel.

• From H738 and H410; lion of God, that is, heroic: - lionlike men.
• H738 From H717 (in the sense of violence); a lion: - (young) lion, + pierce [from the margin].
• H717A - primitive root; to pluck: - gather, pluck.
• H410 - Shortened from H352; strength; as adjective mighty; especially the Almighty (but used also of any deity): - God (god), X goodly, X great, idol, might (-y one), power, strong. Compare names in “-el.”
• H352 - From the same as H193; properly strength; hence anything strong; specifically a chief (politically); also a ram (from his strength); a pilaster (as a strong support); an oak or other strong tree: - mighty (man), lintel, oak, post, ram, tree.
• H193 - From an unused root meaning to twist, that is, (by implication) be strong; the body (as being rolled together) also powerful: - mighty, strength

Isaiah 29:13  Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men: 

Is this us? How oft do people claim to be Christians, yet are only so in words, when convenient.  How often do those who are truly His cause His name to be blasphemed among the heathen?  O' Lord, correct us, mold us, cause our ears to hear and our eyes to see and help us to give a proper estimate of You in all areas of our lives.

Matthew 14-16

Matthew 14:1- 11 - At that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the fame of Jesus, And said unto his servants, This is John the Baptist; he is risen from the dead; and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him. For Herod had laid hold on John, and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife. For John said unto him, It is not lawful for thee to have her.  And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet.  But when Herod's birthday was kept, the daughter of Herodias danced before them, and pleased Herod.  Whereupon he promised with an oath to give her whatsoever she would ask. And she, being before instructed of her mother, said, Give me here John Baptist's head in a charger. And the king was sorry: nevertheless for the oath's sake, and them which sat with him at meat, he commanded it to be given her. And he sent, and beheaded John in the prison. And his head was brought in a charger, and given to the damsel: and she brought it to her mother.

Killing the messenger because the message wasn't acceptable.  Could I be guilty of the same?  Not actual murder, but thoughts and/or words which 'kill?'

Days 47 and 48 - 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.

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Day 47 and 48 - Sin offering - trespass offering - instructions about offerings - laws for the people food (clean and unclean meat) - motherhood (law of cleansing) - leprosy.

Interestingly if you had a full fledged case of leprosy you were considered clean. It was only if you had clean and unclean mixed.

Perpetually watching out to make sure they did not touch anything dead or do anything that would make them unclean. I am soooo glad that we do not have to keep the requirements listed - I would never make it through a day - I wonder how they did? Thinking about that...how reflective am I of my sin? Not nearly enough.

O Lord, let the meditation of my heart be continually upon You and pleasing you with all of my spirit, soul and body. May the words of my mouth and the thoughts of my mind desire to please you.

Quote

Husband and wife must delight in the love and company, and lives of each other. When husband and wife take pleasure in each other, it unites them in duty, it helps them with ease to do their work, and bear their burdens; and is a major part of the comfort of marriage. [Prov 5.18,19]

~Richard Baxter

Day 45 - 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.

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Day 45 ~ Consecration of Aaron ~ ministry of priests ~ strange fire of Nadab and Abihu causes death ~ laws about sacrifice (day of Atonement).

Observations: Aaron is decked out - which is what Father ordained, but brings to mind how the pope (and yes I used a small 'p' on purpose) is decked out and elevated, yet this is NOT what Father ordained. People pay reverence and homage to a man not chosen by Father to be HIS representative and who misleads and defrauds people. Why?*

Ponderables - the Hebrews had only ever seen and/or heard of the Egyptian gods - gods that could obviously pull some pretty intense 'miracles' - remember some of Moses' were replicated. How amazing must that have been? To see the God who chose you, pulled you out, gave you abundant wealth, washed away your enemies, moves you in a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. Then HE consumes the offering in a flash of fire - had they ever seen anything like that before? Ever heard of anything like that? Indeed, we serve an amazing God.

Strange fire ~ our pastor/teacher has referenced this passage several times and I find it interesting, especially since the Church (all born again believers in Christ Jesus) want to mimic the behavior of Nadab and Abihu. It is a wonder we are not all slain. How oft do we do something thinking it will be an honor or glory to Father, when in reality it is only our vain imaginations.

How much of what we do on this side of eternity will make it through the consuming fire of a Holy, Just, and Merciful God. A God who is jealous for HIS own. He who will test our works with fire to see what they were made of: wood, hay or stubble?

O' Lord, let the works of my hands, the thoughts of my mind and the words of my mouth be pleasing in thy sight. Let my works stand on Your foundation - let them be gold and silver.
*Why? Because they are dead. All are dead in their trespasses and sins. Dead people do not know they are dead - and have no ability to reach, ask or inquire about a holy and just God - only God can turn on the light, exposing our darkness and sin.

Blessings ~ Melissa

Day 44 - 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.

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Day 44 * Gifts and offerings brought into the tabernacle * Moses enters tabernacle * Ministry of the sons of Aaron described.

Observations: Numbers 7 - the tribes bring their offerings - Jamie Soles, a Christian musician sang this song with his 8 children, it was a delight to see children from 5 to 18 singing scripture, if you would like to explore his music try here:www.solmusic.ca/

I found the order of the tribes to be intriguing - Judah (4th born), Issachar, Zebulun, Reuben (1st born), Simeon, Gad, Ephraim, Manasseh (sons of the 11th son), Benjamin (12th son), Dan, Asher and Nahtali.

Day 43 - 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.

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Day 43 - Office of Eleazer - service of the Kohathites - service of the Gershonites - service of the Merarites - Aaron lights the lamps over against the candlestick.

Observation: The high priests office required men of 25-50 to serve - 5 years of training. The rest of the Levitical priesthood served from 30 to 50. Gill and Henry had interesting commentary on the difference.

Blue cloths, scarlet cloths and purple...such royal colors. The blue cloths are mentioned 5 times - according to Strong's the blue color came from a mussel, while the scarlet color came from an insect.

Week 5 - 2013

Romans 9-10

Rom 9:21  Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?

Potter - G2763 - From G2766; a potter.

• G2766 - Probably from the base of G2767 (through the idea of mixing clay and water); earthenware, that is, a tile (by analogy a thin roof or awning).
• G2767 - A prolonged form of a more primary word κεράω keraō (which is used in certain tenses); to mingle, that is, (by implication) to pour out (for drinking).

Used 3x, once in this verse and then in Matthew 27:7, 10 to describe the potter's field.

Potter made me think of this passage in the OT:

Isa 64:8  But now, O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.

Potter - H3335 - probably identical with H3334 (through the squeezing into shape); (compare H3331); to mould into a form; especially as a potter; figuratively to determine (that is, form a resolution).

• H3334 - A primitive root; to press (intransitively), that is, be narrow; figuratively be in distress.

Used 15 times in 12 verses - Psalm 2:9; Isaiah 29:16, 41:25, 64:8; Jeremiah 18:2, 3, 4, 6; 19:1, 11; Lamentations 4:2; Zechariah 11:13.

Genesis 16-19

Genesis 16:7 -  And the angel of the LORD found her by a fountain of water in the wilderness, by the fountain in the way to Shur.

Her = Hagar

I found/find it interesting that both times the Lord speaks to Hagar it involves water.

Genesis 21:19  And God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water; and she went, and filled the bottle with water, and gave the lad drink.

Reflecting (as a mother) how even though Ishmael's descendants are a thorn in the side of Israel, the Lord heard the lad, saw the mother, provided for them. Provision given by the Lord to those who had/have no inheritance with the Lord.  Some would call it common grace.  The Lord says He rains on the just and the unjust.

Matthew 5:45  That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.

Joshua 21-24

Joshua  21:45  There failed not ought of any good thing which the LORD had spoken unto the house of Israel; all came to pass.

failed - H5307 - A primitive root; to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitively or causatively, literally or figuratively).

not - H3808 - lo; a primitive particle; not (the simple or abstract negation); by implication no; often used with other particles.


Joshua 22:2  And said unto them, Ye have kept all that Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, and have obeyed my voice in all that I commanded you:

These caught my attention - the Lord kept (provided) all that He had spoken to do...and then the tribes of Reuben and Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh kept all that Moses had commanded via the Lord.

kept - H8104 - A primitive root; properly to hedge about (as with thorns), that is, guard; generally to protect, attend to, etc.

Used 468x in 440 verses - first one is Genesis 2:15 Adam was to 'keep' the garden.

Psalm 12-14

Psalm 13:6  I will sing unto the LORD, because he hath dealt bountifully with me.

sing - H7891 - The second form being the original form, used in (1Sa_18:6); a primitive root (rather identical with H7788 through the idea of strolling minstrelsy); to sing.

bountifully - H1580 - A primitive root; to treat a person (well or ill), that is, benefit or requite; by implication (of toil) to ripen, that is, (specifically) to wean.

Job 9-10

Job 9:33  Neither is there any daysman betwixt us, that might lay his hand upon us both.

daysman - H3198 - A primitive root; to be right (that is, correct); reciprocally to argue; causatively to decide, justify or convict.

Used 59x in 55 verses - translated as: appoint, argue, chasten, convince, correct (-ion), daysman, dispute, judge, maintain, plead, reason (together), rebuke, reprove (-r), surely, in any wise.

Isaiah 23-28

Isaiah 25:9 - And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us: this is the LORD; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation.

glad - H1523 - A primitive root; properly to spin around (under the influence of any violent emotion), that is, usually rejoice, or (as cringing) fear.

Used 45x in 44 verses, translated as: be glad, joy, be joyful, rejoice.

rejoice - H8055 - A primitive root; probably to brighten up, that is, (figuratively) be (causatively make) blithe or gleesome.

Used 155x in 148 verses, translated as cheer up, be (make) glad, (have make) joy (-ful), be (make) merry, (cause to, make to) rejoice, X very.

salvation - H3444 - Feminine passive participle of H3467; something saved, that is, (abstractly) deliverance; hence aid, victory, prosperity.

Used 78x in 77 verses, translated as deliverance, health, help (-ing), salvation, save, saving (health), welfare.

Matthew 11-13

Matthew 13:43b - Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.

Interesting - how the passages flow:
Potter

Found by a fountain of water

God did not fail to bring anything to pass

Sing unto the Lord for His bountiful provision

Daysman (mediator)

Glad and rejoicing in His salvation

Ears to hear

Days 41 and 42 - 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.

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Day 41 and 42 ~ Further Tabernacle construction, articles, items, people.

Curtains of linen, curtains of goats hair, covering of rams' skins. Boards, sockets, bars - overlaying with gold (which means they had to melt it - still intrigued by how they melted it and how hot the fire had to be).

Inner vail, outer vail. Brazen altar - the altar of burnt offering. Court construction and hangings for gate. Altar of incense, laver of brass, incense and spices. Garments of the priesthood (they made some very fine clothes).

Sabbath rest reiterated - Father, do I take adequate time to set aside and reflect and rest in and on You?

Summation of the tabernacle construction - Ex 38:21-43

Trumpet notification information - Num 10:1-10

Tabernacle readied for service - Ex 40:1-15

Families of Levi - responsibilities - all first born males from a month old and upward (22,273) redeemed by tribe of Levi (22,000). Redemption $ for the overage given to Levites (5 shekels * .266738 US dollars = $1.33369 - this would be in modern currency exchange).

Modern 1 Israeli shekel = 0.266738 U.S. dollars

I did not find a quick and easy reference for a shekel - but did find this, which I found interesting:

www.victorie-inc.us/holy_anointing_oil.html

Cleansing of the Levites....and thus ends my journey for this day in reading through the Bible. I hope all who read are encouraged and exhorted in our Father's word. May He abundantly bless you as you partake of HIM through HIS word, whether in reading through in a year, or in whatever form Father has guided you to use. May there always be some new delight to partake of as you read and re-read and re-read HIS love letter to you.

Your fellow warrior in Christ Jesus ~ Melissa

Days 39 and 40 - 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.

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Day 39 and 40 (trials, testings ~ heh!)

Law of the land given ~ Sabbatical year and every 7 years thereafter. Years of Jubilee (50) ~ redemption of inheritance ~ care of the poor ~ redemption of the poor ~ conditions for blessings ~ warnings of chastisement (3 sets of seven) ~ dispersion predicted ~ covenant remains ~ dedicated persons and things (tax) ~ three items which are the Lords (firstling of beasts, devoted things, tithe) ~ Moses face shines with Gods glory ~ tabernacle built (people give in excess of what is needed-hmmm).

Tabernacle items - Ark ~ Table of Shewbread ~ Golden Candlestick ~ a foreshadowing of Christ - any takers for a discussion?

Beware of Carnal Security and Vain Presumption

Courtesy of A Puritan At Heart

The worldly man will say that the Lord has also made him partaker of all these benefits, and therefore there is no cause, why he should doubt of his love; nor any reason why he should be censured or condemned for his faith. I answer, that he is not reprehended for his persuasion of God’s love, nor for his assurance of God’s promises in Christ; but for his boasting of this faith, persuasion and assurance, whereas there is nothing in him in truth but a dead carcass of faith, carnal security and vain presumption. For true faith purifies the heart, Acts 15:9, and works by love, Gal 5:6. It is plentiful in good works, and provokes us to perform all good duties to God and our neighbours: and it is impossible that we should be truly persuaded of God’s love and not love him again: It cannot be that we love God, if we show no care in glorifying his name, by letting our lights shine before men, nor any desire to perform obedience to his will.  If therefore we live in our sins without repentance, if we make no conscience of our ways, and show no zeal in glorifying God’s name; if our faith be destitute of the fruit of good works, then is our persuasion but fond  presumption; our assurance, carnal security, our faith dead; and like a carcass which breathes not, as James speaks Chap 2:26.

We do not then reprehend any for being persuaded of God’s love, gathering assurance out of  God’s manifold mercies and innumerable benefits bestowed on his Church; Nay, contrariwise, we affirm not withstanding all our sins and unworthiness we are to be persuaded of God’s love in Christ, and to believe against belief, and to hope against hope, when as there is no ground or reason of either in ourselves. But this we maintain, that whoever has this assurance and faith, in the least measure begun in him, does truly love God, and earnestly labours after mortification and newness of life; and whoever is destitute of God’s love, and lives in his sins, without any sorrow for those which are past, or purpose to leave them for the time to come, he may well brag of his faith and assurance of God’s love, but in very truth there is as yet nothing in him but carnal security and vain presumption.

—John Downame

Day 36 - 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.

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Day 36 ~ Priesthood garments ~ consecration of the priests ~ food for the priests ~ continual burnt offering.

Food for priests - have not had time to explore this, trying to determine if this was a daily occurrence.

Continual burnt offering - 2 lambs, 1 year old, daily - one in the morning and one in the evening - that is over 600 lambs in a year!

Reflecting on our High Priest and the fact that HIS word tells us we are priests. How seriously do I take this distinction to be ministering in the things of my Lord and Saviour?

Week 4 - 2013

Romans 7-8
Romans 7:23  But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.


This verse resounded within me, reminding me of our 1st Peter study - which has segued into an extensive study - we've recently covered the parts of man, the difference between being controlled by the old nature versus the new - this is the handout which we've used:

If you are interested in an inductive study - God Behind the Book - I don't always agree with everything she teaches, but believe overall she is lined up and on mark.  Always be a Berean!

Genesis 12-15

Genesis 14:17  And the king of Sodom went out to meet him after his return from the slaughter of Chedorlaomer, and of the kings that were with him, at the valley of Shaveh, which is the king's dale.

Genesis 14:18  And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God.

Genesis 14:19  And he blessed him, and said, Blessed be Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven and earth:

Genesis 14:20  And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.

Genesis 14:21  And the king of Sodom said unto Abram, Give me the persons, and take the goods to thyself.

Genesis 14:22  And Abram said to the king of Sodom, I have lift up mine hand unto the LORD, the most high God, the possessor of heaven and earth,

Genesis 14:23  That I will not take from a thread even to a shoelatchet, and that I will not take any thing that is thine, lest thou shouldest say, I have made Abram rich:

Genesis 14:24  Save only that which the young men have eaten, and the portion of the men which went with me, Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre; let them take their portion.


This portion struck me, because not much later on Sodom and Gomorrah are destroyed. Yet, they witnessed, benefited from Abram rescuing them, so much so that they were willing to surrender any rights to the 'booty.'

Joshua 16-20

Psalms 9-11

Psalm 9:17  The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God.

This is a chilling thought, especially as we observe the state of the nations, the total depravity of man unleashed and willing to indulge in every form of vice and wickedness.  The wicked are turned into hell - the nations, have they all forgotten God?

Psalm 11:3  If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?

This seems to coincide with the verse quoted above - the foundations of the nations, the family, faith in God, moral laws, uprightness, are all under attack.  What can the righteous do?  Pray, pray, pray. Seeking HIM and HIS strength during troublesome times.  He has sworn He will never leave nor forsake His people.

{laugh} - I'm reviewing my notes and wondering WHY I wrote down, poor, innocent, humble and said to do a word study...when the verses above have NONE of those words.  Here is one of the verses which does include those words:


Psalm 9:12  When he maketh inquisition for blood, he remembereth them: he forgetteth not the cry of the humble.

Psalm 9:18  For the needy shall not alway be forgotten: the expectation of the poor shall not perish for ever.

Psa 10:2  The wicked in his pride doth persecute the poor: let them be taken in the devices that they have imagined.

humble - H6035 - The second form is by intermixture with H6041; from H6031; depressed (figuratively), in mind (gentle) or circumstances (needy, especially saintly).

• H6041 - From H6031; depressed, in mind or circumstances (practically the same as H6035 subjectively and H6041 objectively).

needy - H34 - From H14, in the sense of want (especially in feeling); destitute.

• H14 - A primitive root; to breathe after, that is (figuratively) to be acquiescent.

poor - H6041 - From H6031; depressed, in mind or circumstances (practically the same as H6035 subjectively and H6041 objectively).

H6035 - used 21 times, translated: humble, lowly, meek, poor.

H34 - used 61 times, translated: beggar, needy, poor (man).

H6041 - used 75 times, translated: afflicted, humble`, lowly`, needy, poor

In this passage of Psalms read, I only find innocent 1x - in Psalm 10:8, which is H5355.

innocent - H5355 - From H5352; innocent: - blameless, clean, clear, exempted, free, guiltless, innocent, quit. Used 43 times.

My what a journey!  I'm intrigued by the first passages I wrote down which have to do with nations...interesting how the Lord 'keeps' certain verses before us.

Job 7-8

Job 8:3  Doth God pervert judgment? or doth the Almighty pervert justice?

Cross referenced:

Deuteronomy 32:4 He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.

Mulling over that HE is always just, always judging, always merciful.

Isaiah 18-22
Isaiah 22:13b let us eat and drink; for to morrow we shall die.

Cross referenced:

1 Corinthians 15:32  If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die.

Gill's commentary on the eat, drink, die:

let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we shall die; which they said, not as believing their case to be desperate; that the next day, or in a few days, their city would be taken by the Assyrians, and they should be put to the sword, and therefore, since they had but a short life to live, they would live a merry one; but rather as not believing it, but scoffing at the prophet, and at the word of the Lord by him; as if they should say, the prophet says we shall die tomorrow, or we are in great danger of being suddenly destroyed; but let us not be dismayed at such words, and to show that we do not believe them, or if this is our case, let us take our fill of pleasure, while we may have it. This is the language of epicures, and of such that disbelieve the resurrection of the dead, and a future state, to whom the apostle applies the words in 1Co_15:32.

Matthew 8-10
Mat 8:8  The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed.

Speak the word only - that is all that is required - Jesus, GOD, speaking the Word is sufficient to bring those who are dead to life.  The Word, not us, not man's inventions, circus riddled 'churches' trying to 'reach' the lost.  It is not anything of, for or about us that we are doing.  It is HIS WORD which brings/gives life, to those who are the called.

Have you heard the Master calling?