Esther 3 introduces us to the villains of the book - those who are against Yahweh and His people. But as Isaiah 54verses17 tells us, they are doomed to failure. Haman, the son of Hammedatha (the Agagite), the richest noble of the realm wins king Ahasuerus' favour. Haman should never have existed if Saul had fulfilled God's commission to destroy the Amalekites. Agag is a kindred word to the "Gog" of Ezekiel 38. That latter day enemy will also attempt to exterminate the Jews. Could it be the Russian leader? Whoever it is he will be destroyed and buried in the valley of Jehoshaphat, and on the mountains of Israel. How quickly do the archetypal foes meet each other and the result is instant hatred and loathing. The Jew, Mordecai, is warned by the king's servants that in not bowing down to Haman he is in great danger. In verse 7 we are told that Haman seeks a sign from casting lots ("pur"), which he does from the first to the twelfth month, as to when would be the right time to destroy every Jew. From verses 8-11 Haman asks of king Darius (Ahasuerus) the right to destroy a race, which he describes as pests, whose existence (Haman said) was to the detriment of the king's realm (this is not this dissimilar to Hitler's argument in his book, "My Struggle"). If, says Haman, Darius allows this to be done 10,000 talents will be paid into the king's treasury facilitating this to happen. Permission is given and the postmen are sent to all corners of the realm announcing the date of the destruction of the Jews. Chapter 4 tells how God, through Mordecai, is able to thwart this plan. Firstly, Mordecai shows humility before he invokes help from the Almighty. Esther 4verses4 speaks of Mordecai’s remorse and from verse 5 Esther seeks to know the reason for his being clothed in sackcloth. On finding out, and having been told by Mordecai that this perhaps is the reason she has become Queen is providential. Esther agrees to be part of a counter plan to defeat Haman. Esther would do whatever it required, even if it is to cost her life.Amos 8 begins with the vision of the basket of summer fruit, revealing that God's judgments cannot be averted. Great destruction would be seen everywhere, even in the Temple, which they mistakenly believed was their defence. Verses 4-6 explain why their Sovereign is going to discipline them. The entire population is covetous in the extreme and sees religion as an impediment to their greed. Yahweh swears in His righteousness to avenge such evil deeds practiced by the rulers of Israel. Verses 8-10 tell us that what they hypocritically delighted in is to be totally overturned. Verses 11-12 speak of the famine that is to come when those seeking counsel from God would not find it. At that time their idolatry and calf worship will cease. In the final segment of our Bible readings, we are introduced a picture of ourself - Onesimus, a profligate runaway slave, who in Rome is liberated from his wasteful state to become a brother in Christ. Theo key words in this letter are related to BOWELS. Paul is demonstrating his love for God, His Son, His Word, His truth, and for Philemon and his family and the ecclesia, as well as for Onesimus. The Apostle is demonstrating to Philemon that, we must not only know and live the truth, but we must also love it, and God and His Son and His Word, His truth, His ecclesia, His familyverses we must be emotionally involved and committed. K Paul sends Onesimus back to his master, as a fellow believer in Christ carrying this letter and the epistle to the Colossians. Onesimus is formerly described as being "unprofitable", which is our condition before we believed the gospel and received forgiveness. But now he has learnt to abound in his grateful realisation of his elevated status see Ephesians 2verses1-12. The Apostle Paul had taught Philemon the truth of the gospel. He speaks of Philemon's debt to God in the forgiveness which he has been given. Therefore, Philemon ought to show the same f

After the anger of Ahasuerus has abated, as chapter 2 tells, he consults with his young peers as to the process that is to be pursued in finding a new Queen to replace Vashti. Throughout his entire realm beautiful virgins are sought and the one who pleases the king is to be chosen. Verses 5-11 introduce us to both Mordecai and the maiden Esther, her Hebrew name is Hadassah (Persian word "Esther" = 'star'; Hebrew name "Hadassah" = 'myrtle'), When the newly created state of Israel was formed in 1948 their first ambulance service was called "Hadassah". Mordecai had been taken into captivity in BC 605 when Jeconiah was Judah's king. Esther is Mordecai's uncle's daughter. Esther pleases the head eunuch, Hegai, who is also in charge of the king's harem. Therefore, Esther is advanced by Hegai to be brought before king Ahasuerus as soon as possible. But at this point in time no one knew that Esther was Jewish. Verses 13-24 describe the care and process that is required for those to be brought before the king.Verses 15-18 tell of Esther's turn to enter the king's presence. She immediately finds Darius' favour and he gives a feast honouring her. Verses 19-23 inform us that Mordecai overheard a plot to kill king Ahasuerus. This plot comes from two of his chamberlains - Bigthan and Teresh. The greatest lesson of the book of Esther is of Yahweh's providential preservation of His people. Hence nothing in the entire book happens by accident. It all occurs because God's providential hand is directing everything. Amos 7 tells of successive judgments brought on Israel (called Jacob in this chapter as he was the forefather of the nation) by Yahweh in response to the nation's waywardness. The first disaster is preparing the plague locusts devouring the developing crop. The second catastrophe is the sending of a great fire on the land - the fire is a symbol of judgment and frequently by warfare. The third disaster was the builder's plumb line to measure the nation's straightness and when applied the nation is found to be in need of correction. After each proposed judgment there follows the prophet's intercession for the nation with the refrain, "by whom shall Jacob rise, for he is small". Then we are told of God's response which indicates the decreed judgment cannot be averted. King Jeroboam 2nd's false priest, Amaziah, from Bethel (the house of God - (ironically so-called) tells Amos to stop saying things that the king does not want to hear. Amos' response is that he became a prophet involuntarily because of the Almighty's call to him as a part of the ministry of the prophets. Prior to that Amos earned his living by gathering and selling wild figs (sycamore tree fruit). Amos denounces Amaziah and prophesies a telling and spine- chilling prophecy against the false priest and his family. Titus was a convert of Paul. Paul calls him "my true child in our common faith", as he likewise calls Timothy. Some suggest, with good reason that Titus may have been the brother of Luke the beloved physician. Titus' full name was perhaps Titus Justus. Paul leaves Titus in Crete to establish and solidify the Cretian ecclesias; of which one historian says that there may have been a hundred, or more. The three chapters contain outstanding information about individual lives in the service of Christ. The letter appears to have be written after Paul's release from 2 years house arrest at the end of Acts 28. After this conditions for Christians become far worse, as Nero blamed them for the great fire in Rome. 2 Timothy outlines some of the consequences of this with Paul being arrested at Ephesus and accused of being the ringleader of the Christians and therefore the prime instigator of the fire. The Apostle seems to have undertaken a fifth missionary journey. In the course of this journey, he and Titus have visited Crete to establish ecclesias, perhaps more than a hundred. This journey left the task of organising those ecclesias and the Apostle Paul leaves Ti

Esther commences with Ahasuerus' feast. That Persian king is also known as Darius 1. He holds a feast lasting for 180 days. The year is 515 BC. The king rules from his palace in Shushan (also known as Ecbatana). This is Darius' royal citadel from which he reigns over 127 provinces. Ahasuerus wishes to show his pomp to all the dignitaries of his realm, so he holds a feast lasting for 6 months. At the end of this the king holds another feast of 7 days duration and on this occasion the king gives gifts of food and wine, until each of his lords are satisfied. At the end of this feast, he calls for his beautiful wife Vashti to attend, in order that all those present might see her beauty. But Vashti refuses to attend creating a dilemma in the Persian court. The nobles insist that Vashti be disciplined by king Ahasuerus and that he divorce her. The princes argue that Vashti's refusal has created a precedent for every wife in the realm to refuse to submit to their husbands. So, king Ahasuerus issues a decree forbidding Vashti from being queen and from ever again coming into his presence. Amos 6 tells of those who are at ease in Zion i.e. they had failed to show the vigilance and diligence required of God's servants. These citizens have been proud and refused to accept that for this reason they must be judged. These lofty individuals indulged in every luxury without giving their Sovereign a second thought. Individuals who are wicked and selfish individuals have no compassion for those who are suffering. For those reasons many of them would die in the coming day when the Almighty was to repay their evils. And yet they would still refuse to acknowledge the LORD. In the poetic symbolism of verses 11-12 the prophet says that every effect has a logical cause. And the end of the chapter states that their actions and contempt for their God would be the cause of their Sovereign's allowing the Assyrian to bring the nation into captivity. The warnings against "perilous times" coming in ‘the last days', are recorded in 2 Timothy 3 for us. The word "perilous" means "difficult to endure", or "hard to bare". What will make those times difficult for believers? The answer is that the majority of believers will be so self-indulged that they have become indifferent to the need for godliness - in word they will profess to be the servants of the Almighty, but their actions deny that this is of great import to them. Those having this attitude will destabilise some who have a semblance of religion just like the two Egyptian magicians - Jannes and Jambres - who through smoke and mirror tricks seemed to be able to copy the signs that Moses did before Pharaoh. The folly of those charlatans was seen by all. Paul says that such people profess to be religious but are totally immoral and aim to seduce women who are naive. In verses 10-17 Paul tells of his example to all of how he has lived his life which shows him to be a true and faithful follower of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Apostle speaks of the stoning he endured at Lystra. That spectacle had been witnessed by and impressed upon young Timothy (I believe that Paul actually died and was raised on that occasion).Persecution and suffering for the faith will always be the lot of the faithful believers. So, Timothy must continue to be steadfast and adhere to the Word of God which has been breathed out i.e. expired by our God to inspire His servants to follow faithfully. The teachings and lives of disciples must be seen to be the lives of those who know that they belong, not to this world, but to their returning Lord, whose kingdom nears. Chapter 4 begins with the solemn responsibility to keep preaching regardless of the consequences; and knowing that people will prefer fables that will reassure them in what they are wanting to hear. At the Lord's coming the living believers, and those who have died knowing what God required of them, will be judged. The faithful will be rewarded in that longed for kingdo

Nehemiah had initially been given leave in approximatelyBC 470 by the Persian king Darius for a period of time after which he returned to Ecbatana (the king's palace in Shushan). Then a further thirteen years elapse (BC 457) he is again granted leave to return. Sadly, in his absence, there had been a decline described by the prophet Malachi. Nehemiah 13 would have been the last section of the Old Testament to have been written shortly after Malachi's prophecy. When we compare Malachi and Nehemiah 13 we see the same problems being addressed. The first few verses of Nehemiah 13 tell us that Nehemiah reads to his people from the Book of Moses that Balaam was able to bring a curse on Israel only when they mingle themselves among the profane, immoral and uncovenanted Moabites. So, Nehemiah returned to Jerusalem and this is what he found - the high priest's daughter was married to Tobiah (one of the great enemies of Israel) and the high priest had set up for Tobiah a room in the temple and had stopped the collecting of the tithes for the priests and Levites which had previously been stored in Tobiah's room. Nehemiah casts Tobiah and his furniture out of the temple. Then Nehemiah cleanses the house of God. Because the tithes had not been paid the Levites had been forced to abandon the teaching of the Law to the people and work as day labourers in the fields.Nehemiah quickly rectifies this problem. The sanctity of the Sabbath had again been lost and the foreign merchants had resumed their trade. Nehemiah asks for the LORD to remember him for good.Nehemiah's heart was always directed to Yahweh's and His people's service. The next problem described is the intermarriage between Jews and godless and uncovenanted foreigners. The result is total confusion and children who knew not their God (compare Malachi 2verses11-16 read aloud, pause and ponder). Nehemiah forcefully remonstrates with those who had committed this breach of faith with their God and reminds them that the marrying of uncovenanted wives was one of the greatest factors in the turning of Israel to idolatry at the time of Solomon - despite Solomon's great wisdom. The offerings are restored and Nehemiah in his final prayer says, "Remember me, O my God, for good". The message of Amos 5 is to seek Yahweh and live. In the opening verse there is a lament that the virgin daughter of Jerusalem is fallen and without her Sovereign's aid she cannot not rise again. There will come a famine so severe that a city of 1,000 people would be left only 100 - of a city of 100 would be left only10. Verses 4 and 6 say that the nation must seek Yahweh if they are to live. Verse 5 speaks of 3 centres of significance in the nation's history - places of significant decisions and places of true worshipping in the past. The nation had turned God's values upside down. Speakers of truth were derisively mocked. The poor have been trampled and exploited. Nothing would be done without bribes. The prophet counsels the nation to behold the power of the One they were shunning - He had made the 7 virgins (the constellation Pleiades) and Orion (the giant). If, verse 14, they are to now to seek the LORD, they may yet be spared. The chapter concludes with powerful metaphors of God's justice - read verse 24 aloud, "Let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness as an ever-flowing river" verse 24 (ESV pause and ponder). Those who expressed a desire to see "the day of the LORD" would regret the inescapable judgments that would follow one after another. God abhorred their sacrifices. It was as though they were being offered to an idol that cried out for blood (verses 25-27 are cited by Stephen in his defence in Acts 7verses42-43).In chapter 2 of 2 Timothy, we are told of the Apostle Paul passing on the baton, of faithful stewardship in the Truth, to Timothy his own true son in the faith. Paul also passes on the responsibility of the charge that Timothy, in turn, must find faithful stewards for the safe

Verses 1-26 contains the names of the priests and Levites who were present at the dedication of the wall. From verses 27-43 the service of dedication is described by Nehemiah. Two choirs one led by Ezra and the other by Nehemiah start off together from the Dung Gate in opposite directions and meet halfway around the wall at the Water Gate and as they walked around they were rejoicing and singing the words of David's psalm of Thanksgiving. This Psalm was first sung at the bringing of the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem in the time of Davidverses 1 Chronicles 16verses8-36. The concluding verses of the chapter tell us of the service at the temple with further songs of thanksgiving and praise as well as the distribution of portions most likely from the thanksgiving and peace offerings to the priests, the Levites, the singers and the Gatekeepers. Amos 4 tells derisively and contemptuously the extreme avarice and control the sisters of the community of God had over their husbands. In verses 2-3 the LORD says that He cannot ignore such ruthless and callous behaviour, but will take them away by the Assyrian invaders, who will lead them with fishhooks. In verses 4-5 with rich irony, they are invited to Bethel - the house of God - to sin. Verses 6-11 outline the methods of chastisement sent one after another upon them, sadly these were all without any effect.Firstly, the withholding of rain and famine; secondly, blight and mildew on their crops; thirdly, locust plagues; fourthly, disease and destruction by the sword. God saw them as a stick in the fire and He used every known effort to pluck them out of the fireverses Jude verses 22-23. But the nation of Israel remains as unresponsive to Divine correction as Sodom and Gomorrah. For these reasons the nation must now prepare to face Yahweh in judgment. What a daunting prospect this would prove to be given His awesome and unlimited power. 2 Timothy is the last letter the Apostle Paul writes. The Apostle has been hunted throughout the Roman world as a criminal, and then taken to Rome and placed in a cold dark cell awaiting execution by beheading. The year is 63-64 AD. The fire which destroys half of the buildings in Rome was blamed on the Christians by Nero; and Paul as a recognised ringleader of the hated sect is to be made the chief scapegoat. The introduction to this letter additionally contains the greeting of mercy (to grace and peace) which start all the letters before the Apostle's second imprisonment; excepting Philemon which is a personal letter. As one gets older one becomes even more conscious of the need for Divine mercy - for without it we are all doomed. The words of this letter are Paul's last and chosen very carefully to warn and advise. The first great charge was to safeguard the deposit of the sound teachings which were believed. Timothy's love of the truth goes back to his mother and grandmother (Lois and Eunice). Timothy had been given the gift of prophecy by the laying on of the hands of the elders. Paul encourages this faithful young man to stir up that gift and to be invigorated to enthusiastically testify as to what Timothy knew to be true. What a hope he has embraced and he stands unshakable in his conviction that, "Jesus Christ had abolished death and brought life (Zoe) and immortality (deathlessness) to light through the gospel"(v10). Timothy is exhorted to follow the great example of faith and love that had been lived out and constantly exhibited by Paul. The Apostle says that he has fathered Timothy in the gospel. Sadly, in Paul's time of needing support he is abandoned by many. Paul names two in particular - Phygellus and Hermogenes - as foremost in his abandonment. But he commends Onesiphorus, who appears to have been killed for his going to Rome to aid the aged and suffering Apostle.

Nehemiah 11 gives the names of those returned exiles who live in Jerusalem and those who live in the surrounding villages. Their names and the work for which they are responsible is very important in the Bible. Those in Jerusalem include priests, Levites and singers; gatekeepers (all of those were very important roles for the worshipping of the nation). From the villages particular mention is made of the craftsmen who despite the great difficulty in building put themselves and their families in peril because of their love for their brothers and sisters and for their God. Amos 3 tells of the close and unique relationship God has with His people, Israel. This means that the nation had a great responsibility to Him, as their Father; and that He would chastise them for ignoring His commandments. Sadly, the nation of Israel by their actions in joining themselves to their idols had severed their association and agreement with their Sovereign. Israel was walking in the opposite direction than what He asks of them. Four analogies are provided of cause and effect. The lion roars when the prey is caught; the fowler does not take up a trap until he has snared a bird; fear comes upon a person when the warning trumpet sounds an alarm; likewise, the Lord GOD will not send chastisement without first warning His people via His servants, the prophets. Yahweh would roar in visiting His people with the consequences of their actions. The prophet says the surrounding nations will see the justice of the LORD's judgments. It seems that because of Israel's covetousness it is impossible for them to act justly. The. accumulated wealth of the rich will always justifiably attract plunder (cp Romans 2verses2-11; James 5verses1-6). Bethel was the place where the worshipping of God had in the past been central to the nation's instruction in the ways of God. This city, which means "the House of God" will be laid waste.1 Timothy 6 says that servants must honourably bear the responsibility of faithful service. The chapter next sounds a warning against false teachers and this is followed by one of the greatest, and possibly the hardest, lesson to learn - i.e. that godliness with contentment is the greatest profit a believer can have in life. We can take nothing with us when we die. All that is important is the legacy that the Almighty sees - a life of devotion to Him and service to others - a life rich in good works. To pursue any other course is a guarantee of frustration and sorrow (just as Balaam found out). Verse 10 tells us, "the love of money" (Greek "philaguros" - literally "lover of silver" which has in Greek the numeric value of 666) is 'a root of all kinds of evil'. In verses 11-16 Timothy (and each believer) is urged to fight the fight of faith following the example of the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave a faithful witness before Pontius Pilate - costing our Lord Jesus his life. Jesus will, on his return to earth, set up the glorious kingdom of God demonstrating the power and honour of the King Invisible (God the Almighty Father) and the benefits that will come to those who live life by this guide. The letter concludes with a reminder to safeguard the deposit which had been committed to Timothy and a charge to the rich to avoid pride. The rich are counselled to use their God given resources to benefit others (the lesson being based on the life of Hezekiah cp2 Kings 20verses12-16). Let us learn godliness with contentment; richness in faith and loving works to others - pause and ponder.

The Life Of Christ # 111 Beware of Covetousness by John Martin_1

Verses 1-27 of Nehemiah 10 tell the names of those who signed the covenant. Verses 28-39 outline the responsibilities and obligations of the covenant. The first of the obligations was to not marry uncovenanted wives (i.e. those of different beliefs to those taught in His Law by the God of Israel).Responsibility 2 was to observe the Sabbath by preventing the buying and selling of goods. The third necessity was to pay their tithes and offerings for the house of God. And finally come together for the three principal feasts to rejoice in their God; and with those of like precious faith. Amos 2 commenced with judgments on Israel's neighbours for their sins and now from verses 6-16 the prophet states the sins for which Israel will be chastised. Firstly, those whose covetousness and callousness knows no limits; secondly, those whose uncontrolled sexual appetites were insatiable; thirdly, their boastfulness - the word Amorite comes from the Hebrew "amor" meaning mouth; fourthly, their corrupting of God's laws i.e. giving the Nazarites wine to drink. And so "as they had sown, so they would reap" and not be able to resist the severe coming judgment. 1 Timothy 4 commences with signposts which mark out the coming departure from true teachings - 1) a belief in evil and deceitful spirits; 2) a celibate clergy forbidden marriage; 3) the refraining from eating certain foods e.g. meat on Fridays and during Lent leading up to Easter - all foods are for our eating as long as we have offered a prayer of thanksgiving before eating. In verses 6-10 we have the third faithful saying, "bodily exercise is of some value, but godliness (Greek "eusebia" - good, or well worship) is profitable in every way, benefiting present daily life, and offering the hope of eternal life in the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ". It is essential that believers be reminded of the necessity to be pure in thought, word and action. Such diligence will save both the teacher and the hearer alike. In chapter 5 we are told the type of respect to be shown to elderly believers. Next follows instructions on the proper treatment of widows. It tells families to show their commitment and care for the widows before requesting aid from the ecclesia. However, widows whose faith and actions stand as a witness to their commitment to Christ Jesus and His Father should be supported in their needs. Older members of the flock of God who have diligently proclaimed the Word of God must be honoured (compare Hebrews 13verses7, 17). Those whose words and actions show a failure to continue in the beliefs and behaviour of the Truth are to be openly rebuked. Be careful in the choice of those commissioned to faithful service. Timothy should drink wine moderately for reasons of health. Sometimes the faithfulness of some believers is evident; and sometimes the wrongdoing of believers is seen. But not always. Beware of hypocrisy, but be assured it will be unmasked in the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Nehemiah 9 speaks of the covenant that the people made with their God. It is written down, sealed and is a binding covenant on which the nation signed their names indicating their commitment to it. The fasting people come in sackcloth repentantly before their God and spend three hours confessing their sins. In his prayer/discourse Nehemiah rehearses God's faithfulness and loving kindness encompassing Israel's entire history. Nehemiah focusses on pivotal incidents which demonstrate that Yahweh is in control and is working powerfully on their behalf. The events show Israel's faithlessness and their forsaking of God for idols. The LORD never stopped warning them through the ministrations of His prophets. For these reasons the rulers bind themselves in covenant and seal it in the presence of witnesses. The prophecy of Amos tells us that the events described commence two years before the earthquake -i.e. from BC 688. This is a time of great prosperity for the northern kingdom now ruled by Jeroboam 2. Amos 1verses 2-2verses5 speaks of judgment upon Israel's surrounding nations i.e. her neighbours. In all of the judgments the Almighty gives reasons as to why He has brought punishment. The reason for the chastisement of each nation is clearly stated. In the stanza about themselves the text reads, "For three transgressions and for four I (God says) will bring judgment on..." This form of language is a Hebrew language device of the formverses (for (number X) and for number (X+1) ...". It is known as ascending numeration. This style is frequently used in the prophecies of Amos and Micah. The personal letter of Paul to his son in the faith, Timothy, is written from Rome during the Apostle Paul's first imprisonment (during his house arrest of two years) between 61-63 AD. The standard greeting of the Greeks "charis" - "grace"; and of the Hebrews, "shalom" - "peace", or "wholeness"; begin the letter.Verses 3-11 warn against false teachers. The Apostle starts with genealogies because the false teachers were asserting to their hearers the importance which they placed on their own lineage. Law is a necessity for humans are, by weakness and choice, sinners. From verses 12-17 the Apostle Paul states the first of five faithful sayings, written in the pastoral letters of 1 and 2 Timothy; and Titus. The first of these sayings is that "Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners". Paul acknowledges that he is one of the foremost in this category, because he persecuted believers. In verses 18-20 Timothy is entrusted with the "charge" - Greek "deposit" i.e. solemn responsibility) to oppose false teachers and their teachings. In chapter 2verses1-6 Timothy is told to pray for all people so that believers may be allowed to worship God in peace. Paul states that God is the Father alone. He further adds that the Lord Jesus Christ is the Son of the Father, whose offering of himself brings believers to God. From verses 8-15 there are explanations about the right way to worship God. These include sincere prayer from dedicated believers; modesty in all aspects of appearance - avoiding drawing attention to oneself in the wearing of jewellery and in the wearing of immodest clothing. The Apostle says that in the meetings of believers that sisters acknowledge their God appointed roles by the wearing of a head covering and by allowing the men to teach. Nonetheless the sisters bearing of children is fulfilling (if by circumstances they are able) a God given role. A sister, Mary, gave birth to our Saviour. In chapter 3verses1 the Apostle gives the second faithful saying, "those aspiring to guiding believers have chosen a noble path". Verses 2-7 speak of the qualifications for an overseer (bishop), or guide of believers. Verses 8-13 outline the requirements for deacons (assistant guides for believers). Verses 14-16 talk about God and contain the great truth of the gospel that Jesus Christ is the pillar and foundation of the temple of faithful believers

Nehemiah 8 tells us that as Ezra read the Law of Moses from dawn to midday to the people standing and listening attentively for it was God's Word that was being read and explained with diligence. The people's response in verse 8 was a loud and audible, "Amen, Amen". Ezra urges the people, not to weep but, to rejoice in God's Word as they together share His blessings. Then the chapter says that they kept the Feast of Booths (or Tabernacles) for seven days and then on the 8th day they observe a solemn assembly (Hebrew "holy convocation"). This day is in the Law of Moses only once named - and is known as "Shemini Azaret", or "the day of the righteous" - speaking of eternal life in God's kingdom.Joel 3 tells of the time that will soon come at the time of the end of the kingdom of men. At this time the Lord Jesus Christ will come and set up the kingdom of God on this earth (Revelation 11verses15-19). The great battle of God Almighty is "Armageddon" in Revelation 16verses14-16, - those verses are taken from what we are told in Joel 3. These events were only possible in recent years, because the start of Joel 3 tells us that Israel must be back in their own land with Jerusalem as their capital city. Armageddon will be a time for God's judgments on the nations for their sinfulness and ungodliness and on those nations who that have wrongfully treated His people - Israel. It will be a time for war - a holy war, in fact. The word translated "prepare" in verse 8 means a jihad, or holy war. Verse 10 speaks of a time when the economies of the world are turned from agriculture to war i.e. precisely what we see now. The time that follows will be of peace in the kingdom of Messiah - our Lord Jesus Christ (read Isaiah 2verses1-4; and Micah 4verses1-5). Verse 12 of Joel 3 is where Armageddon is mentioned in the Old Testament. The judgment of the nations is likened to the harvesting of the grain with a scythe (or sickle); it is also compared to the harvesting of the vine and crushing grapes in a winepress. In 2 Thessalonians 3 Paul asks for the believers' prayers that he might be helped to freely teach the gospel without hindrance. From verses 6-15 the Apostle urges the Macedonian faithful to keep working and avoiding idleness. Many had ceased working because they mistakenly thought that the coming of Jesus Christ was so close that they didn't need to work. Idle brothers had to learn to heed the advice contained in this letter. In the last two verses the Apostle Paul asks God to give the believers peace. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Verses 1-4 of Nehemiah 7 tells us that although the walls of Jerusalem had been rebuilt the houses had not yet been built. This left the city unprotected. From verses 5-65 the genealogies of the entire 42,360 returned exiles was recorded, with more than half of those verses being about the priests, the Levites and the Nethenim - indicating the importance of these to the newly reconstituted kingdom of Judah. It was essential that the credentials of a priest descended from Aaron be established for correct worship. The remaining verses record the gifts given by the people for worship. Joel 2 records the progress of the unstoppable Babylonian army. They are described as Yahweh's army, who are to execute his judgements on the "day of Yahweh". From verses 12-17 recorded an impassioned plea to return to their God. They needed to "rend their hearts, and not their clothes" (v13) for their Sovereign's loving kindness, grace and mercy have never left the One who so revealed Himself to Moses in Exodus 34verses6-7. So, if their LORD found a repentant people He would bless them. Those blessings are described in verses 18-27. They would see God's people eternally blessed. From verses 28-32 we have outlined for us how Yahweh would bring that blessing through the work of the Holy Spirit outpoured at the times of the Lord Jesus Christ- the Messiah of Israel, who would bring salvation to all - Jews and Gentiles alike on the basis of faith (or belief) starting in Jerusalem (Mount Zion). Compare this chapter to Acts2verses14-41 and Romans 10verses8-17. The greetings and salutations commencing 2 Thessalonians are identical to Paul's other letters except for the pastoral epistles (1 Timothy; 2 Timothy; Titus). In chapter 1 verses 3-4 the Apostle thanks God for the Thessalonican brothers and sisters, whose faith was growing and their love increasing. Despite persecution they were steadfast for the gospel. From verses 5-12 Paul urges for that patience to continue for it will receive the promised reward at the second coming, and kingdom, of our Lord Jesus Christ. Our Lord when he comes with the angels will also avenge his faithful. The persecutors of the believers will then receive what they deserve. Chapter 2 tells that before the Lord will come there will be a huge forsaking of the true belief and a system of deceit, which pretends to be the truth will arise in the earth. The words translated "falling away" and "lawlessness" both in the Greek language have the numerical value of 666 (compare Revelation 13verses16-18). From the other identifying features in this chapter and those within the book of Revelation tells us that this is the Roman Catholic Church with the Pope as its head.Note that the delusion which allowed this system to develop came about because those who fell away "received not the love of the Truth" (v10). From verses 13-17 the Apostle urges them to stand firm for the faith. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Nehemiah 5 records the actions of Nehemiah the prophet to remove the suffering of the poor whose lands and vineyards had been mortgaged and their children sold into slavery. Nehemiah holds a great assembly and challenges the rulers to forsake their iniquitous practices. And so, the congregation agrees to restore to their families the sons and daughters who had been enslaved. Also, fields and vineyards are returned to their original owners. Governor Nehemiah received no taxes from the people despite his entitlement to do so. Verses 14-19 outline the Governor's - Nehemiah's - generous provision from his table every day for 12 years out of his own pocket. Nehemiah calls upon God to witness his love and generosity to Yahweh's people. Chapter 6 speaks of the conspiracy against Nehemiah from the enemies surrounding Israel. These foes seek a meeting with the Governor in the open plain where they would attempt to assassinate him. Nehemiah refuses and tells them that he would not stop doing God's work. Four times they try this tactic. Next the adversaries come with an open letter spreading lies about Nehemiah. This also fails. The enemies claim Nehemiah wants to make himself king. The faithful Governor takes the letter and spreads it out before God and prays for God's help and support. The next tactic of Nehemiah's foes is to threaten assassination. This too fails to intimidate God's faithful servant and the work of building the walls continues. Nehemiah asks God to remember and deal with the enemies. And so, the wall is completed in 52 days, because the hand of the Almighty is with his people. One of the great lessons of these chapters is to remain focused on God's work and the building up of His family and to avoid any distractions that might arise.The prophet Joel speaks his message just before the four waves of Babylonian invasions on Judah and the deporting to Babylon of exiles from the Land on each of these incursions. The first of these happens under the king of Babylon (Nebuchadnezzar) in 606 BC. The final overthrow of the southern kingdom of Judah; with its capital Jerusalem, was in 587 BC. The invasion is described by the four stages of the locust - each stage more voracious in appetite than the previous stage. Verse 6 tells us that the devastation of God's land is due to one nation - Babylon. Notice the symbols of Israel are portrayed in the vine and the fig tree. These are consumed by Nebuchadnezzar. The virgin of Israel languishes due to her chastisement. Verses 13-20 tell of a call to repentance for the nation of Judah, will feel the wrath of the LORD in "the day of Yahweh" (a theme often repeated in this prophecy). Our final reading in 1 Thessalonians 5 reminds us that the Scriptures provide graphic detail of the times (Greek 'chronos' which God has explicitly revealed through His Scriptures and particularly in His prophetic word) and that He has adjusted i.e. patterned the world's eras around His Son, the Christ (Hebrews 11verses1). Time in this chapter is made up of longer periods called "times" and shorter periods known as "seasons". The shorter seasons characterised by specific signs compel us to believe that our Lord's coming is imminent (Luke 21verses24-36). These signs urge us to watchfulness and to lives that are consistent with us being the children of the DAY. That is the day soon to dawn when the sun of righteousness will arise with healing (Malachi 4verses1). We are exhorted us to lives consistent with the character required of the children of our Father in verses 4-11. The chapter concludes with patterns of behaviour befitting the children of the kingdom (cp 2 Peter 3verses10-18). Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Nehemiah 4 tells of the mockery that comes from the Jews' enemies in an attempt to discourage them from the work of building the wall. Nehemiah makes it a matter of prayer to his God. Likewise, the people of the LORD were not diverted from the work. The enemies next threaten sabotage and open attack upon the rebuilding work. This too fails because of Nehemiah's diligence and the measures he takes for constant surveillance and the protection of the builders. Nehemiah places each family working on the wall directly in front of their home. Each worker works with a weapon in one hand. Hosea 14 tells of a plea to Israel to return to Yahweh. The nation needs to consider why they had been smitten and to find suitable words to request God's healing and forgiveness. Then the Almighty's anger will be turned away. In poetic language the prophet describes how blessings will return to Israel. In forsaking idolatry and learning the just and upright ways of Yahweh the faithful will thrive and experience the bountiful blessings of our Lord Jesus Christ's coming kingdom. 1 Thessalonians 3verses1-5 Paul tells us of the sufferings that the Apostle experienced in Athens. Next Paul informs his readers of the great encouragement and comfort that Timothy brings him; and it is the news of the Thessalonians' magnificent response to the gospel. Note how the chapter finishes - read aloud verses 12-13 and pause, and ponder. Chapter 4 speaks of how pleased God and Paul are with the way that the believers are living their lives as a witness to their faith and to their trust in God and His Son. The love the Macedonian believers show to each other is evidence that they have learned what God's Word teaches. They needed to keep working until the Lord Jesus' return. These believers did, however, have a wrong view about the order of events after the Lord's return. The living believers will have no time advantage over those faithful who had fallen asleep in Christ i.e. died. Verses 13-18 describe what happens at Christ's return to the earth. Jesus will come with angels and the trumpet of God (1 Corinthians 15verses52-53). Those believers who are alive when he comes will be caught up together with those believers who have been raised from the dead, into a great cloud of witnesses (see Hebrews 12verses1- 2). These believers will be caught into the air i.e. aerial, in the sense that, together with their Lord Jesus Christ, they will be the rulers (or those elevated to be in authority) over the people of the earth - i.e. the subjects of that coming kingdom. What a comfort to those who are now suffering persecution. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Nehemiah 3 tells the readers of Judah's consecrating of the gates and the rebuilding of the wall. It contains lists of who built, and why they built. All classes from professional craftsmen (goldsmiths) to common labourers worked - including the high priest Eliashib and his 5 daughters. Sadly, it also listed some, such as the nobles of the Tekoites, who to their shame failed to become involved in the building of the wall. Hosea 13 tells of the LORD's relentless watching over Israel (v7) "like a leopard by the way". Their idolatry would be visited with chastisement, as of a devouring lion. The king they sought in their beginnings - Saul was given by God in His anger and taken away in His wrath. The same remained true for every king from Israel (the northern kingdom). However, the loving kindness of Yahweh is stated in verse 14, which is cited with regards to the blessings of the resurrection in 1 Corinthians 15verses54-55. But for the time being their discipline remained a necessity. Paul's first visit to the Thessalonians (in Macedonia) was perhaps around 51 AD. The letter commenced with "grace" (Greek ‘charis' - love) and "peace" (Hebrew ‘shalom' - wholeness, or peace), which come from God, our Father. As a group of Christian believers, the Macedonians were severely persecuted, like their fellow Jewish believers in Judea - many of them being put to death for their beliefs. The Thessalonians were, however, extremely generous in financially contributing to Paul's preaching - especially the Philippians. The central message of both letters is the second coming of Jesus Christ to set up the kingdom of God on earth. Every chapter of both letters refers to this - some chapters containing several references (in the Bible we find over 500 references to the second coming of Jesus Christ). Their love and labours for the Truth were exemplary to all believers. Note verse 9 refers to their belief in "the Living God" and cites not only the verse in Jeremiah 10verses10, but the whole context of Jeremiah 10 was relevant to the situation of the Thessalonian believers. Chapter 2 speaks of the love of Paul, Silas, Timothy and Titus among them. Interestingly the name Titus means "nurse", or "rearer". Paul worked to support his companions' needs and for the preaching of the gospel. The Apostle commends the believers for their patience in suffering persecution. Finally, he expresses a desire to see them again and says that in the day of Christ's coming their acceptance of the gospel would be his victor's crown (Greek 'stephanos'). Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Nehemiah was cup bearer to the king of Persia - an exalted and esteemed position. He had just received news from Hanani of the terrible condition of the walls and gates of Jerusalem. The year was about BC 469 and as soon as Nehemiah heard these words he prayed and fasted for several days acknowledging his sins and those of his people, which had brought this terrible situation. He acknowledges Yahweh's righteousness and His loving kindness quoting from the Law of Moses, as told in Deuteronomy. Chapter 1 concludes with the implication that Nehemiah intended to take up the matter with king Darius. The next chapter tells of Nehemiah in the presence of the king with his face showing a sadness of heart - this was forbidden by the law. Nehemiah who, the book shows to be a man of prayer and action, is questioned by the king as to what the sadness might mean - is there a plot against the king? Whereas the prayer of chapter 1 was over many days this time this prayer is a brief spontaneous momentary prayer requesting God to cause the king to favourably listen to Nehemiah's prayer. The response of the king was to grant Nehemiah extended leave to return to Jerusalem to fix the problem. In verses 9-10 we are told of the Persian king's support for Nehemiah. We are also told about the disturbance this created among the Jews' enemies. After 3 days of thinking about the size of the problem before him Nehemiah arose at night and secretly inspected the walls. So that ownership of the problem would occur, Nehemiah asked the rulers what they would recommend be done. Their answer was, "Let us rise up and build". This only served to strengthen the opposition they faced. Nehemiah told Sanballat, the Horonite (i.e. Edomite), Geshem - the Arabian; and Tobiah- the Ammonite and servant to Sanballat - that these enemies had "no portion or right or claim in Jerusalem" (2verses20 ESV). Hosea in chapter 12 speaks of Israel's falsehood to God and even to the Assyrians also so that Egypt came and punished them. Verses 2-14 speak of the LORD's quarrel with both the northern kingdom of Ephraim and the southern kingdom of Judah. These verses tell in a parable what both kingdoms needed to learn - and of course the lessons are equally true for us. Hosea tells us that Jacob was from the time of his birth until the night before his confrontation with Esau a deceiver to whom God was teaching lessons by continuously exposing Jacob to deceivers far worse than himself - particularly Laban, who was both his uncle and father-in-law. When Jacob was faced with a dilemma that he could not solve God compounded the problem for him by dislocating Jacob's hip (read Genesis 32). Now Jacob was forced to rely on God, rather than his own resourcefulness, and to now have finally learnt that all along he should have left the solution to his problems with God. The summation of Jacob's life given by God, through Moses, was that Jacob was a "plain" (Hebrew "just", or "upright") man - this meant he always tried to be godly, but had to wrestle with traits that were strongly part of his heritage. The greatest lesson of his life was to learn to TRUST God. Hosea tells us that now Jacob having found God at Bethel (the house of God) tells us to learn the same. Deuteronomy tells us that when they gave their tithes to Yahweh that they were to recite, "A Syrian ready to perish was our father" (Jacob). For us the great lesson from the life of Jacob is recorded in verse 6 - read aloud, pause and ponder. Despite what Israel and Judah had done God would restore them in His loving kindness, as the remainder of the chapter indicated. Verse 13 indicated that Yahweh chose to work through those whom society sees as misfits- Moses was but a prophet.In Colossians 3 verses 1-4 tell us that since we have through the act of baptism been raised in him to a new life our thoughts and actions should be in harmony with this. And so, from verses 5-9 all those past behaviours are to find no place among belie

The Life Of Christ # 115 The Feast of Dedication by John Martin

In Ezra 10 we read of the renewal of the covenant and a commitment to be faithful to the marriage covenant that Yahweh had made with Israel. The chapter speaks of Ezra and the exiles' acceptance of the covenant's solemnity was demonstrated by their declaring that they would only marry wives within the covenant bonds. After three days all the people assemble before the house of God trembling because of the solemnity of the occasion and the heavy rain. The rain meant that they needed delegated officials to stand for them in these matters. The assembly together with Ezra discussing this matter and determining to do what God had commanded. The Senior officials of the assembly are guilty of marrying out of the truth and they are named in the balance of the chapter. Those officials are required to put away their foreign wives in order to preserve the integrity of Israel's covenant with their God and maintain the truth faithfully.Hosea 11 tells of God's covenant love for His son Israel. Yahweh calls His son "out of Egypt", as the book of Exodus attests and at that time Yahweh gives to them His covenant name as evidence of His purpose with His people. Matthew 2verses15 cites Hosea 11verses1 and applies it to the Son of God - the Lord JesusChrist. The verses in chapter 11 which follow speak of the nation's resistance to their Father. As a Father the Almighty took Israel by the hand and trained them to walk in His covenant way. Despite their perverse heart in wanting to go back to Egypt Yahweh would not give up on them (verses 8-9); but in the time of their chastisement they would eventually again seek Him.Colossians 2 together with Romans 6 provides the most complete description of what baptism is and what it achieves. Verses 1-5 tell us that in Christ we find a complete embodiment of the wisdom of God in a single individual. So we, the body of believers need to model and pattern ourselves on the Lord Jesus Christ. Verses 9-10 tell us that all can know about the Almighty is to be found in Christ. Verses 11-15 describe what baptism is - it is like circumcision in that it tells us that "in the flesh" - that is within our nature (dwells nothing innately good). There is nothing in human nature that can do anything good for God. And so human nature is rightly related to death. In dying Christ destroyed a body identical to ours - in that every sin which has been done could have been done in Jesus' body. The Jews and Romans were driven by the lusts of their natures to try to destroy our Lord Jesus Christ. But by not yielding to the passions which controlled his enemies our Lord victoriously triumphed in his sinless death. That death on the stake was a demonstration of the truth that human nature is rightfully related to death. Only when the lifeless body of our Lord hung on the stake was sin conquered in him and in his resurrection the process of salvation completed for him - and by establishing a basis for our forgiveness and thereby the way for our salvation. Therefore, in crucifixion Jesus destroyed sin (called in Hebrews 2 "the devil"). So, from verses 16-21 Paul tells the Colossians to focus on the pivotal and central teachings of the truth, and not to be distracted by side issues. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Ezra 9 tells of the problems of those who had married nonbelievers. Verse 4 tells that the rulers and officials had been at the forefront of those who had disobeyed God's command about this. The reader should look at Malachi 2verses10-16 and Nehemiah 13verses23-27 to understand Yahweh's views on this subject; and why His prophets were so strong in denouncing this practice. From verse 10-15 Ezra seeks God's forgiveness of His people for their wrongful ways in marrying out of the Truth and counsels all of God's people to forsake that dangerous and evil course. Hosea 10 tells of a vine that produced no fruit for God. How often do the prophets and the Lord Jesus Christ take up this theme cp Isaiah 5 and consider the number of references in the last week of our Lord to the barrenness of the fruitless, but showy fig tree. Also see John 15 where our Lord comments on himself being the vine. Without fruit a vine is useless - its wood is poor fuel; its wood cannot be used to make anything. We are useless unless we are producing the fruit of the spirit for God in our lives (see Galatians 5verses22-25; and Ephesians 5verses8-16). But for Israel when the LORD looked at their actions, instead of fruit, He saw poisonous weeds. Instead of sincere worship of Yahweh He saw the idolatrous calf worship. Bethel (meaning "the house of God") becomes Bethaven ("the house of vanity" - or "nothingness"). The result of this would be the delivering up to captivity of Israel to nations who were themselves ruled by idolatry. Israel's sinfulness was evident from earliest times, even when the Tabernacle was at Gibeah. The Lord God would again bring them under the yoke, when they will finally learn righteousness and will open their hearts to God as the poetic symbol of breaking open the fallow ground of their hearts suggests. By doing this God would be able to rain blessings on them. But the coming judgment would be a necessary part of helping Israel to learn this.Paul sent the letter to the Colossians in about 62 AD. He never personally visited the region where there were two groups of believers - one in Colossae and the other in Laodicea. The one letter was read by both at this time and about 34 years’ time when another letter was sent in 96 AD by the Lord Jesus Christ. The area was exceptionally fertile and lay in a very rich valley. The epistle commenced with the greeting "Grace ('charis' the Greek greeting) and peace ('shalom' the Jewish greeting) coming to the believers from God our Father. This is followed by thanksgiving and prayer for their faithfulness in the gospel as reported to the Apostle from Epaphras. The believers were increasing in knowledge and love. But the greatest of all thanks was to be expressed to God, our Father, who had "qualified us to share the inheritance of the saints in light ... and has transferred us to the Kingdom of His beloved Son" (verses 12-13 ESV). Then from verses 14-23 Paul tells us of the pre-eminence of the Lord Jesus Christ the Son of the Father. Our Lord Jesus is the beginning (Gk 'archegos') and head of God's new creation and is the firstborn (Jesus firstborn by birth, death and resurrection) of that creation; the firstborn from the dead to be raised to eternal life. Verses 24-29 tell of Paul's suffering for all Gentile believers, that he might share and participate in the sufferings of Christ (as part of his body, which we, the ecclesia are). In verse 27 we have the key verse and theme of the book, "Christ in you (i.e. each of us) the hope of glory". Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Ezra 8 gives the genealogies of the returning exiles. This information is most important to Ezra the priest. It is necessary that only those whose genealogies for the priesthood could be proven would be put into the priesthood - the same applied to the Levites. Genealogies often seem boring to us, but thegenealogies are most important to those whose names are recorded. Nothing happens by accident in the life of Ezra - a small group are travelling with vast treasures of the Temple and have no guard provided by the king. However, they are never without protection - the God of heaven is with them. Nonetheless they do not presume on Yahweh's support - for three days they fast and pray seeking the Almighty's protection. Ezra cannot ask king Darius for protection - for that would demonstrate a failure to trust in the LORD. Ezra and the returning exiles offer burnt offerings and sin offerings and depart for the Land having angelic protection. Hosea 9 tells that because of Israel's unfaithfulness they are to be taken captive into Egypt. Memphis is the central city of Egypt's gods and is the place of enslavement for idol worshipping Israel. From a promising beginning our God finds His people have treacherously turned from Him to commit idolatry. This shows that their trust is in the nations surrounding them, rather than in their God. The chapter concludes in verse 17 with Israel becoming outcasts among the nations. Acts 28 tells of the entire company of the ship arriving safely on Malta at a place today known as St Paul's Bay. Here the ship's company will remain over winter until Paul journeys to Rome. The night of their arrival is cold and wet. A fire is kindled to dry them and to provide warmth. As Paul assists with the gathering of wood for the fire a venomous viper comes out from the fire and sinks its fangs into Paul's hand. The superstitious locals think Paul must have been a murderer who having escaped the vengeance of the sea is now being punished by God. Paul shakes the snake into the fire. The locals watch Paul waiting for him to convulse, swell up and die an agonising death - none of these things happen. So, they change their minds into thinking that he must be a god. Paul now is lodged for three days with the chief man of the island named Publius. Publius' father is sick with dysentery; but is miraculously healed by the Apostle. After leaving Malta three months later Paul takes a ship to the mainland where the journey to Rome continues. Along the journey Paul is given the privileges not normally given to a prisoner. The Apostle stops and meets several groups of believers on his journey to Rome. In Rome he calls together the local Jewish leaders and explains why he is in Rome. These Jewish leaders had received no information from any other Jews concerning Paul. After discussing his case it is thought that he might be set at liberty. The Apostle says that he was left with no alternative than to put his case before Caesar when the Judean Jews objected to his being released. The Roman Jews reveal that they have heard that the Christian sect is everywhere spoken against. A large gathering of Jews comes to Paul's place of residence at an appointed time. The aged Apostle tells them from morning to evening the message of the prophets. Paul concludes his address with the words of Isaiah 6 in chapter 6 which prophesied Jewish opposition to the Gospel message. The great Apostle claims that the Gentiles will favourably respond to the teaching of Christ. The book of Acts commenced in chapter 1verses8 with the need for the gospel to be taken "to the uttermost parts of the earth" and concluded with that task being completedverses see Jesus great commission to the Apostles in Mark 16verses15-16. And also, after Paul's miraculous preservation after having been bitten by a venomous viper recorded in Acts 28verses3verses5 compare with Mark 16verses17-18. Two years expire and as no case is brought against Paul he is released to con