Notes from Linda:
12/1/22: I just found out that most of the commentaries on the Bible Study Tools website are no longer free. That's where most of the quotes that appear on the "Verse of the Day" and "Previous Verses" pages of my website are taken from, so from now on, many of the "Source:" links that I provide on those pages will not contain the quoted text.I was disgusted to read about the organization's new "PLUS" membership, and the only thing I can say about it is that the Bible has this warning in 1 Timothy 6:10 for the owner of Bible Study Tools: "For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows."
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8/8/21: Something is wrong with my Christian forum. Everything seems to be working normally (i.e., the articles are there, and the links work), but for some reason, the forum's format has changed slightly, and I am currently unable to post anything new.
I'm really sorry for the inconvenience. Hopefully, the problem is only temporay and will be fixed soon.
"Verse of the Day"
Bible Verses
Bible Verses
"Verse of the Day"
Bible Verses
Bible Verses
Previous Month
May 2023
MAY 31
Referring to a virtuous (physically, morally, and spiritually strong) woman, King Solomon wrote:
Proverbs 31:20: "She stretcheth [stretches, holds] out her hand to the poor [people]; yea [yes], she reacheth [reaches] forth her hands to the needy [people]."
"k. I John 3:17-18 -- 'But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? 18My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.'
"• Love is a verb. Love doesn't just FEEL sorry for others. It does something about it.
"• The virtuous woman DID have this world's goods. She was a woman of means [i.e, she was rich or well off].
"• And she was also a woman of compassion with a tender heart.
"• When she saw a neighbor in need, she did not 'shut up her heart.' Instead, she opened her heart and she opened her hands [and gave what she could].
"• She didn't love in word only; she loved in DEED.
"• She was a woman who was strong in virtue.
"l. We are all (men and women) challenged to follow this example: 'But to do good and to communicate (share) forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.' (Heb. 13:16)"
If you want to read more of the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-31-index/proverbs-31_20/.
MAY 30
Proverbs 30:12: "There is a generation [a segment of society which is made up of a group of people who were born and grew up at around the same time] that are pure [clean, righteous (morally right), without fault] in their own eyes, and yet [in God's eyes (and in other people's eyes, too),] [this generation] is not washed from their filthiness [referring to the filthiness of their hearts, which is the source of the bad things that they think, say, and do]."
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Pastor Delany's commentary on this verse has examples of people (both saved and unsaved) who are self-righteous hypocrites. According to the pastor, these people can be found everywhere, including in Hollywood, in offices and homes, and in politics, education, business, and the marketplace. Even some believers (Christians) can be considered part of this group.
If you want to read the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-30-index/proverbs-30_12/.
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The following articles explain the difference between "positional forgiveness" (which we receive from God--once--at the time of salvation) and "relational forgiveness" (which we receive from God each time we confess our sins to him after we're saved):
-- "What does it mean that, if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just (1 John 1:9)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/confess-our-sins-faithful-and-just.html)
-- "Why do we need to confess our sins if they have already been forgiven (1 John 1:9)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/confession-forgiveness.html)
MAY 29
During the Last Supper with his disciples (or shortly thereafter, as they were going to the Mount of Olives and Garden of Gethsemane), Jesus said:
John 15:13: "Greater love hath [has] no man [or 'no one has greater love'] than this, that a man [referring specifically to himself (Jesus), or anyone else in the world] [would] lay down his [or her] life [i.e., be willing to die] for his [or her] friends."
-- "Memorial Day"
(https://www.military.com/memorial-day)
-- "What Are the Branches of the U.S. Military"
(https://www.military.com/join-armed-forces/us-military-branches-overview.html)
MAY 28
Luke 6:38: "Give [to others; especially, poor and needy people], and it shall be given unto you [in return]; good measure [full measure, as when you fill a measuring cup to the brim (top) with solid food, like figs or grapes], pressed down, and shaken together [to make room for more], and running over [overflowing], shall men [and women and children] give into your bosom [or to you--see note below*]. For with the same measure [or amount of goodness or kindness] that ye [you] mete withal [measure out, give to others] it shall be measured to you again [or given back to you]."
"… The word 'bosom' here has reference to a custom among Oriental [Asian] nations of making the bosom or front part of their garments large, so that articles could be carried in them, answering the purpose of [or similar to] our pockets …"
(Source: https://truthaccordingtoscripture.com/commentaries/bnb/luke-6.php, "Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible," "Verses 20-49")
MAY 27
Revelation 1:8: "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending [of all things], saith [says] the Lord [Jesus Christ, a member of--and on behalf of--the Trinity, or triune Godhead (i.e., one God in three persons--Father, Son, and Holy Spirit)], which is [currently] [the Almighty God], and which was [always has been] [the Almighty God], and which is to come [always will be], the Almighty [omnipotent, all-powerful, one true] [God]."
-- "Ancient Greece: Greek Alphabet"
-- "What does it mean that Jesus is the Alpha and the Omega?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/alpha-and-omega.html)
-- "What does the Bible teach about the Trinity?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/Trinity-Bible.html)
MAY 25-26
Jesus Feeds the Multitude (4,000+ People)
During his ministry on earth, Jesus performed many miracles. This one took place on a mountain near the Sea of Galilee. The same account is recorded in Mark 8:1-10.
Matthew 15:32: "Then Jesus called his disciples unto him, and said, I have compassion on [or pity or sympathy for] the multitude [referring to the people in the crowd], because they continue [have remained] with me now [for] three days, and have nothing [left] to eat: and I will not send them away fasting [hungry, without eating], lest they [or else they might] faint in [on] the way [home]."
Matthew 15:33: "And his disciples say unto him [Jesus], Whence should we have [from where should we get] so much bread in the wilderness, as to [be able to] fill [the stomachs of, or satisfy] so great a multitude [so many people]?"
Matthew 15:34-35,36: "And Jesus saith unto them [the disciples], How many loaves [of bread] have ye [do you have]? And they said, Seven, and a few little fishes. And he [Jesus] commanded the multitude [the people] to sit down on the ground. And he took the seven loaves and the fishes, and gave thanks [to God], and brake them [broke them, tore them apart], and gave [the pieces] to his disciples, and the disciples [gave them] to the multitude."
Matthew 15:37: "And they [the people in the crowd] did all eat, and [their stomachs] were filled: and they [the disciples] took up of the broken meat [the food] that was left [over, or uneaten,] [a total of] seven [large] baskets full."
Matthew 15:38: "And they that did eat [that day] were four thousand men, beside [besides, plus, in addition to] women and children."
MAY 24
Proverbs 24:17-18: "Rejoice not [don't gloat (be joyful in an arrogant way, or with malicious satisfaction)] when thine [your] enemy falleth [falls] [into trouble or misfortune, as when he or she experiences physical suffering, pain, and/or death], and let not thine [your] heart be glad [or 'don't be glad'] when he [or she--your enemy] stumbleth [stumbles, or when bad things happen to him or her]: Lest [or else] the LORD [God] [will] see it [your rejoicing], and it [will] displease him, and he [will] turn away his wrath [anger] from him [or her, meaning the enemy]."
MAY 23
The Apostle Paul Mentions His "Out of Body" Experience
2 Corinthians 12:2: "I [Paul] knew a man in Christ [a Christian, referring to himself] above [more than] fourteen years ago, (whether [he was] in the body, I cannot tell; or whether [he was] out of the body [or 'in the spirit'], I cannot tell: God knoweth [knows];) such an one [such a person] [had been] caught up to the third heaven [where God is--see note below*]."
2 Corinthians 12:3-4: "And I knew such a man, (whether [he was] in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) How that he [Paul] was caught up into paradise [heaven], and heard unspeakable [secret] words, which it is not lawful [permissible] for a man to utter [speak] [i.e. he was not given permission to tell others what he saw and heard--see note below**]."
-- The atmosphere and clouds, from the earth to the stars
-- The starry heavens, where the sun, moon, and stars are located
-- The heavens beyond the stars, where we find God, angels, and the souls of Christians who have died
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/2-corinthians-12.html, "Verse 2")
"Of all the million [people] who have [died and] been taken to heaven, not one has been permitted to return to bear his testimony to [or tell others about] its glories; to witness for God that he is faithful to his promises; to encourage his pious [religious] friends to persevere [carry on]; or to invite his impenitent [unrepentant, unsaved] friends to follow him to that glorious world. And so fixed is the Law; so settled is the principle, that even Lazarus was not permitted to go, though at the earnest request of the rich man in hell, and warn his friends not to follow hint [him] to that world of woe [referring to hell, a place of great sorrow and distress]. Muhammed indeed feigned [pretended] that he had made a journey to heaven, and he attempts to describe what he saw; and the difference between true inspiration and false or pretended inspiration is strikingly evinced [revealed] by the difference between [the apostle] Paul's dignified silence … and the puerilities [childish remarks] of the prophet of Mecca …"
"The fact that Paul was not permitted to communicate what he had seen is very remarkable. It is natural to ask why it is so? Why has not God sent down departed saints [i.e., Christians who have died] to tell people of the glories of heaven? Why does he not permit them to come and bear testimony to what they have seen and enjoyed? Why not come and clear up the doubts of the pious; why not come and convince a thoughtless world; why not come and bear honorable testimony for God that he is faithful to reward his people? And especially why did he [God] not suffer [allow] Paul, whom he had permitted to behold the glories of paradise [heaven], to testify simply to what he had seen, and tell us what was there?"
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"… the following may have been some of the reasons why Paul was not permitted to communicate what he saw to human beings:
"(1) It was designed for the support of Paul himself in view of the very remarkable trials which he was about to endure …
"(2) it is probable that if there were a full revelation of the glories of heaven we should not be able to comprehend [understand] it; or even if we did, we should be incredulous [unbelieving] in regard to it …
"(3) there are great truths which it is not the design [plan] of God to reveal to human beings …
"(4) there is enough revealed of heaven for our guidance and comfort in this world. God has told us what it will be in general …
"(5) … his [God's] purpose is that we shall here walk [on earth] by faith and not by sight … It may be added:
"I. That we have all the truth which we shall ever have about heaven here below. No other messenger will come; none of the pious dead [Christians who have died] will return. If people, therefore, are not willing to be saved [born again] in view of the truth which they have, they must be lost [unsaved, and on their way to hell]. God will communicate no more …"
To read the Mr. Barnes' entire commentary on 2 Corinthians 12:4, including the references, go to https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/2-corinthians-12.html, "Verse 4."
MAY 20-22
The Meaning of Jesus' Words, "Render Unto Caesar …"
This took place after Jesus told two parables (stories) while teaching in the temple at Jerusalem:
Matthew 22:15: "Then went the Pharisees [members of a religious sect (group), who considered themselves more righteous than the other Jewish people], and took counsel [sought advice, asked one another, discussed] how they might entangle [trap] him [Jesus] in his talk [or 'catch him in his words' during his conversation with them]."
Matthew 22:16,17: "And they sent out unto him [Jesus] their disciples [followers] [along] with the Herodians [members of a Jewish political party], saying, Master, we know that thou art [you are] true, and [that you] teachest [teach] the way of God in truth, neither carest thou [and neither do you care] for any man [person] [i.e., Jesus always taught the truth from God, whether the listeners agreed or not]: for thou regardest not [you do not regard] the person of men [meaning Jesus did not favor certain people over others, and he wasn't biased (influenced by what people did and said)]. Tell us therefore, What thinkest thou [what do you think]? Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar [in other words, 'should we pay taxes to the Roman government'], or not?"
Matthew 22:18-20,21: "But Jesus perceived [recognized, understood] their wickedness, and said, Why tempt ye me [why do you test me], ye hypocrites [you pretenders]? Shew [show] me the tribute [tax] money. And they brought unto him a penny [a denarius, which was a small silver coin in ancient Rome]. And he [Jesus] saith [said] unto them [the Pharisees and Herodians], Whose is this image and superscription [whose picture, name, and title are engraved on the coin]? They say unto him, Caesar's [because he was the emperor and a representative of the Roman government]. Then saith he [Jesus] unto them, Render [give] therefore unto Caesar [i.e., the government] the things which are Caesar's [the government's]; and [give] unto God the things that are God's."
Matthew 22:22: "When they had heard these words [i.e., Jesus' answer], they marvelled [were amazed, astonished, filled with wonder], and left him [Jesus], and went their way."
-- "The Image on the Coin"
-- "Correcting the People's Perspective"
-- "What This Doesn't Mean"
-- "Our Relationship to the Government"
Here are some excerpts from that article:
"In ancient times, an image on an object showed ownership. Since the Roman emperor also viewed himself as a god, some Jews objected to paying taxes with Roman money, calling it idolatry. By acknowledging the image of Caesar but not condemning it, Jesus confirms that this perspective [point of view] was flawed [wrong]. Caesar's right to claim taxes was backed up by his image appearing on Roman money. The image was not a demand for worship, just a demonstration of ownership."
"… Whether the Jewish audience paid their taxes or not, it was more important for them to focus on honoring their own "image"--the image of God that every human carries. Like the image of Caesar, the image of God suggests ownership of us. It's far more important to make sure we're pleasing God than the human government."
"… Jesus definitely promoted an attitude of respect and honor toward the government. This respect takes the form of obeying the law, paying taxes, and honoring our elected representatives. Remember, the government in Jesus' day was totalitarian [authoritarian] and ruled by a dictator. Even if we don't like our current political leaders, citizens placed them there through fair and open elections …"
If you want to read the rest of the article, here's the link: https://www.orbcfamily.org/faith/render-unto-caesar-what-jesus-was-actually-saying/.
MAY 18-19
Jesus Heals a Blind Man on the Sabbath Day
John 9:1,2-3: "And as Jesus passed by [probably as he was leaving the temple], he saw a man which was blind from his birth. And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind [see note below*]? Jesus answered, Neither hath [has] this man sinned, nor his parents: but [he was born blind so] that the [powerful] works of God should be made manifest [made known, revealed] in him [the blind man]."
John 9:4-5: "I [Jesus] must work [do] the works of him that sent me [to earth, meaning God the Father], while it is day [a period of time, not part of an actual 24-hour day--in this case, Jesus meant during his lifetime, or while he was alive]: the night [another period of time--in this case, after our death] cometh [comes], when no man [no one] can work. As long as I [Jesus] am in the world, I am the [spiritual] light of the world."
John 9:6,7: "When he [Jesus] had thus spoken, he spat [spit] on the ground, and made clay of the spittle [saliva], and he anointed [gently rubbed] the eyes of the blind man with the clay, And said unto him, Go, [and] wash in the pool of Siloam, (which is by interpretation, Sent.) He [the blind man] went his way therefore, and washed [in the pool of Siloam], and came [back, to where he had met Jesus,] seeing [i.e., not blind, able to see]."
"… It was a universal [general, common] opinion among the Jews that calamities [disasters, tragedies] of all kinds were the effects [results] of sin. … Many of the Jews … believed in the doctrine of the transmigration of souls; or that the soul of a man, in consequence of sin, might be compelled to pass into other bodies, and be punished there. They also believed that an infant might sin before it was born … and that consequently this blindness might have come upon the child as a consequence of that. It was also a doctrine with many that the crime of the parent might be the cause of deformity in the child, particularly the violation of the command in Leviticus 20:18."
-- Note: Leviticus 20:18 says: "And if a man shall lie [down and have sex] with a woman having her sickness [her menstrual period], and shall uncover her nakedness; he hath [has] discovered her fountain [of blood], and she hath uncovered the fountain of her blood: and both of them shall be cut off from among their people."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/john/9-2.html, "Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible")
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Here are some interesting beliefs about transmigration (the movement of a soul into another body after death) from Adam Clarke's commentary:
"… Most of the Asiatic [Asian] nations have believed in the doctrine of transmigration. The Hindoos [Hindus] still hold it; and profess to tell precisely the sin which the person committed in another body, by the afflictions which he endures in this [body]: they profess also to tell the cures for these. For instance, they say the headache is a punishment for having, in a former state, spoken irrevently [irreverently, disrespectfully] to father or mother. Madness is a punishment for having been disobedient to father or mother, or to one's spiritual guide [i.e., demonic spirit]. The epilepsy is a punishment for having, in a former state, administered poison to any one at the command of his master. Pain in the eyes is a punishment for having, in another body, coveted [lusted after] another man's wife. Blindness is a punishment for having killed his mother: but this person they say, before his new birth, will suffer many years' torment in hell. …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/john/9-2.html, "Clarke's Commentary")
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Got Questions discusses transmigration (also known as reincarnation) in the following article: "What is the transmigration of souls?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/transmigration-of-souls.html.
MAY 17
Proverbs 17:15: "He [or she] that justifieth the wicked [i.e., the person who excuses wickedness (evil, sinful behavior), or declares a criminal or bad person to be righteous, or 'good'], and he [or she] that condemneth the just [i.e., the person who condemns (expresses strong disapproval of, or sentences to punishment) a morally upright or innocent person], even they both [meaning both kinds of people--those who 'justify the wicked' and those who 'condemn the just'] are [an] abomination [a disgusting or repulsive thing] to the LORD."
Unintentionsl Injustice
"c. Sometimes it happens through no fault of the court system.
"• Witnesses lie in court… (Ex. 23:1)
"• Evidence is tampered with… or accidentally mislabeled…
"• Eye witnesses sometimes have a faulty [inaccurate] recollection…
"• Sometimes there is a preponderance [an abundance] of circumstantial evidence that makes a person LOOK guilty…
"• Sometimes when all the evidence is laid out, honest, well meaning jurors draw the wrong conclusions.
"• Sometimes there's just not enough evidence available to condemn a guilty criminal.
"• Human error is always a possibility… and many a guilty person has been exonerated [declared innocent]… justified… because of human error.
"• We hear almost weekly about innocent men who were convicted 10, 20, even 30 years ago for crimes they did not commit--and are just now being exonerated due to DNA evidence that did not exist at the time.
"• Many of those cases were honest mistakes made based on the evidence they had…
"• But that does NOT seem to be the scenario [the thing that] Solomon describes here.
"• Solomon seems to be speaking here about INTENTIONAL injustice…"
Intentional Injustice
"d. Injustice also occurs and it IS the fault of the [judicial, court] system.
"• Deut. 25:1 -- why do you suppose this law had to be instituted in Israel? Doesn't that go without saying?
"• It was instituted because sometimes judges were crooked [dishonest]… and God wanted a law on the books to DEAL with that situation.
"• Sometimes they justify the wicked out of popular demand (Ex. 23:2)
"• Sometimes those in positions of power justify the wicked upon a bribe… or because of some other means of personal gain. (Ex.23:8)
"• Sometimes they justify the wicked to keep their job…
"• A judge might justify the wicked because the one he knows to be the guilty party is a friend or relative…
"• A judge might do so as a favor to another corrupt official.
"• Sometimes they justify the wicked to promote their own political agenda."
If you want to read the rest of the pastor's commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-17-index/proverbs-17_15/.
"… When those that are entrusted with the administration of public justice, [such as] judges, juries, witnesses, prosecutors, counsel [lawyers], do either acquit [set free] the guilty [person or people] or condemn [sentence to punishment] those that are not guilty, or in the least contribute to either [verdict]; this defeats the end [or purpose] of government, which is to protect the good [people] and punish the bad …"
(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/proverbs/17.html, "Verse 15")
MAY 15-16
Proverbs 15:27: "He that is greedy of gain [the person who wants to be rich and tries to get things dishonestly, through cheating or violence] troubleth [troubles] his [or her] own house [household, family]; but he [or she] that hateth [hates, refuses to take] gifts [in this case, bribes--to do something unjust or wrong, or to obtain money unlawfully] shall live [a long, fulfilling (satisfying, happy), and peaceful life]."
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Especially interesting and eye-opening is how the behavior described above affects our children. Here's what the commentary says in paragraph 4 under "B. Troubling One's Own House":
"4. There are various WAYS in which a dishonest, greedy man troubles his house.
"a. He may trouble his family with the hardships they experience because of him being arrested… losing his job… being imprisoned [put in prison]… losing their house… etc.
"b. But he may also trouble his house for years to come by TEACHING HIS CHILDREN to follow his behavior.
"→ Our kids pick up on our values by observation.
"→ The dishonest, greedy man demonstrates his character not only when he robs a bank. His kids will pick up on as they are growing up.
"→ Often those values (or lack thereof) are passed on to the next generation.
"c. This may go on for many generations. (Ex. 34:7)
"• Alcoholism and drug abuse is often passed on in a family. Partly perhaps to genetics [heredity]… but mostly through LEARNED and observed behavior!
"• You don't have to worry about a genetic predisposition to alcoholism if you don't take your first drink!
"• If the parents are involved in lying, cheating, stealing, those poor kids don't stand a chance of growing up honest!
"• Domestic violence is also learned and passed on.
"• Trouble brought into the home is often kept there… and passed on to future generations to CONTINUE to trouble that household…
"d. Kids are like sponges and they are watching and observing everything their parents do.
"• And more often than not, those qualities are repeated in their lives.
"e. A man who is greedy for gain can trouble his own household even if he does nothing illegal!
"• If a man is so driven to succeed materially [i.e., get rich] that he works so many hours that he never has any TIME for his family, he too troubles his house.
"• Those kids will grow up with many toys and nice clothes, but will RESENT that dad never spent any time with them.
"• Kids grow up fast… and if they grow up angry, bitter, and resentful because Dad was more interested in material gain than in them… that exacerbates [worsens, makes worse] the trouble in the home…"
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Concerning bribes, Pastor Delany says that people (including politicians, judges, police, and chief executive officers) can sometimes be bought off by money, and justice can also be perverted [corrupted] by money. Many people are willing to lie, cheat, look the other way, and refuse to blow the whistle [expose wrongdoing, make something wrong known publicly] when offered money or other things to keep quiet.
If you want to read the rest of the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-15-index/proverbs-15_27/.
MAY 14
To the Israelites, reminding them of the fifth commandment, Moses said:
Deuteronomy 5:16: "Honour thy father and thy mother [by treating them with love and respect], as the LORD thy [your] God hath [has] commanded thee [you]; [the reason for doing this is so] that thy days may be prolonged [i.e., so you may live a long time], and [so] that it may go well with thee [i.e., so you will be happy], in the land which the LORD thy God giveth [gives] thee [in this case (for the Israelites), meaning the land of Canaan]."
Christians Are Loved by God (Always!) and Chastened When Necessary
In a letter to the Hebrew Christians, the apostle Paul wrote:
Hebrews 12:5: "And [it appears that] ye [you] have forgotten the exhortation [encouragement or urging to do something] [written by King Solomon in Proverbs 3:11-12] which speaketh [speaks, is addressed] unto you as unto children [and which says], My son, despise not thou [don't ignore or regard as an unimportant thing] the chastening [correction] of the Lord, nor [and don't] faint [or, in other words, be sure to bear up (remain strong and cheerful) with faith and patience; don't be discouraged] when thou art [you are] rebuked of [criticized or reprimanded by] him [God]:"
Hebrews 12:6: "For whom the Lord loveth [loves] he chasteneth [chastens] [which means that because God loves Christians, he corrects us when we do wrong--see note below*], and [he (God)] scourgeth [disciplines] every son [person] whom he receiveth [receives, welcomes] [into the 'family of God' through spiritual birth (referring to born-again Christians)]."
Hebrews 12:7-8: "If ye endure chastening [if you experience correction], God dealeth [deals] with you as [fathers deal] with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not [does not chasten]? But if ye be without chastisement [punishment, or correction of faults], whereof all are partakers [or 'of which all true children of God take part'], then are ye bastards [illegitimate children] and not sons [and daughters--or children] [of God]."
The phrase For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth in Hebrews 12:6 "… means that it is a universal [general, common] rule that God sends trials [afflictions, suffering] on those whom he truly loves. It does not, of course, mean that he sends chastisement which is not deserved; or that he sends it 'for the mere purpose' of inflicting [causing] pain. That cannot be. But it means that by his chastisements he shows that he has a paternal [fatherly] care for us. He does not treat us with neglect and unconcern, as a father often does [with] his illegitimate child [referring to a child whose parents are not married to each other]. The very fact that he [God] corrects us shows that he has toward us a father's feelings, and exercises toward us a paternal care. If he did not, he would let us go on without any attention, and leave us to pursue a course [path, life] of sin that would involve us in ruin …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/hebrews-12.html, "Verse 6")
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Also regarding Hebrews 12:6, Pastor Chuck Smith wrote this to born-again Christians:
"… Don't despise the chastening of the Lord. It's proof that God loves you. It's proof that you're a son [of God].
"Now if you can do evil and get by [get away] with it, then be very concerned. If you've been cheating over a long period of time and you've been getting by with it, you've been living in a false relationship for a long time and you're getting by with it, you'd better be careful. That is a good indication that you're not a son [of God]. You're in a dangerous place [if] you can sin with impunity [freedom from punishment, harm, loss, pain, etc.], without getting [chastened by] God. But you know, the neat thing about God is that He loves us so much, He is going to make sure we get caught. And that is sometimes a cause of great consternation [anxiety, dismay] in the mind of the Christian, because everybody on the job may be cheating a little bit on their time card. And so, because everybody is doing it I am tempted to cheat on my time card. Wham! I get zapped right like that. 'But they all did it. None of them got caught.' No, they're not sons [of God]. God won't let you get by with it, because you're a son. God is going to see that you get caught. 'That is not fair!' Well, it really is. God will not let you get by with sin. God will not let you get by with evil, because you're His son. And though everybody else may get by, not you. So when you get caught just rejoice and say, 'Oh man, He [God] doesn't let me get by with evil,' and it's proof that you're His son. If we [Christians] endure [suffer] chastening, God deals with us as sons. If you are without chastisement, then you're not a son [of God] …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/hebrews/12-5.html, "Smith's Bible Commentary")
MAY 11
Biblical Definition of "Gospel"
In a letter to the church at Corinth, the apostle Paul wrote:
1 Corinthians 15:1: "Moreover [in addition to what I have already said in my letter], brethren [fellow Christians], I declare unto you the gospel [I want to remind you of the good news] which I preached unto you [regarding the fundamental (basic) truths of Christianity, which are the foundation of the Christian church], which also ye [you] have received [embraced, believed, willingly accepted], and wherein ye stand [firm, or faithful and strong, as a Christian church … or, 'on which your faith is based'];"
1 Corinthians 15:2: "By which [referring to the gospel] also ye are saved [born again, saved from hell], if ye keep in memory [if you remember] what I preached unto you [concerning the gospel and salvation], unless ye have believed in vain [falsely, without meaning]." [In other words, Paul was telling the people that their salvation depended upon their belief in the gospel, unless they believed a story that Paul had made up (which he didn't, as everything that he said was based on facts) or because their profession of faith in Christ was false, or not sincere.]
1 Corinthians 15:3-4: "For I [Paul] delivered unto you [or told you or taught you, in person, through preaching] first of all [most importantly] that which I also received [from the Lord, meaning those doctrines or teachings that Paul had received from God regarding the gospel; i.e.,], how that Christ [Jesus--the Son of God and Messiah] died for our sins according to the scriptures [in this case, referring to the Old Testament]; And that he [Jesus Christ] was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:"
-- "What are the essentials of the gospel message?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/gospel-message.html)
-- "Is it necessary to fully understand the Gospel to go to heaven?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/fully-understand.html)
MAY 10
Reconciliation Before Worship
Speaking to his disciples during the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said:
Matthew 5:23: "Therefore if thou [you] bring thy [your] gift [meaning 'sacrifice' (during Bible times) or 'offering'] to the altar [in the temple, synagogue, church, or other place of worship], and [while you are] there [you] rememberest [remember or recall] that thy brother [or sister--actually, anyone (male or female), especially a fellow worshiper] hath ought [has something] against thee [you] [or 'has been offended or hurt by you in any way'];"
Matthew 5:24: "Leave there [in that place] thy gift before [in front of, at] the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to [or 'first apologize to or make up with'] thy brother [or 'sister,' as noted above], and then come [back] and offer thy gift [to God] [see note below*]."
"First be reconciled - This means to settle the difficulty; to make proper acknowledgment or satisfaction for the injury. If you have wronged him, make restitution. If you owe him a debt which ought to be paid, pay it. If you have injured his character, confess it and seek pardon. If he is under an erroneous [incorrect] impression, if your conduct [behavior] has been such as to lead him to suspect that you have injured him, make an explanation. Do all in your power; and all you ought to do, to have the matter settled. From this we learn:
"I. That, in order to worship God acceptably, we must do justice to our fellow-men.
"II. Our worship [of God] will not be acceptable unless we do all we can to live peaceably with others.
"III. It is our duty to seek reconciliation with others when we have injured [hurt or offended] them.
"IV. This [thing--seeking reconciliation] should be done before we attempt to worship God.
"V. This is often the reason why God does not accept our offerings, and we go empty away from our devotions. We do not do what we ought [should do] to others; we cherish [hold on to] improper feelings or refuse to make proper acknowledgments, and God will not accept such attempts to worship him."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/matthew-5.html, "Verse 23-24")
____________________
Regarding reconciliation, Charles Spurgeon (another Bible commentator) wrote:
"… Only when we have remembered our wrong-doing, and made reconciliation can we hope for acceptance with the Lord. The rule is -- first peace with man, and then acceptance with God …"
(Source: https://www.preceptaustin.org/matthew-5-commentary-spurgeon, "Matthew 5:23, 24)
MAY 9
Why Women Were Created
This took place on the sixth day of creation:
Genesis 2:20: "And Adam [the first person that God ever created] gave names to all cattle [livestock], and to the fowl of the air [birds, flying insects, etc.], and to every beast of the field [wild animals]; but for Adam [out of all of the creatures mentioned] there was not found an help meet [helpmate (helpful companion or partner)] for him."
Genesis 2:21-22: "And the LORD God caused a deep sleep [like when you're given anesthesia for surgery] to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he [God] took [out] one of his [Adam's] ribs [see note below*], and closed up the flesh [the soft part of a person's body between the skin and bones] instead thereof; And [from] the rib, which the LORD God had taken [removed] from man [Adam], made he a woman [Eve--see note below**], and brought her unto the man."
Genesis 2:23-24: "And Adam said, This [person, Eve,] is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. Therefore [for this reason] shall a man leave his father and his mother [meaning he shall not live with them anymore], and shall cleave unto [or adhere or stick to, join together in marriage and live with] his wife: and they shall be one flesh [or one body, referring to the development of a strong marriage bond between the man and woman]."
"… the woman was made of a rib out of the side of Adam; not made out of his head to rule over him, nor out of his feet to be trampled upon [stomped on] by him, but out of his side to be equal with him, under his arm to be protected, and near his heart to be beloved."
(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/genesis/2.html, "Verses 21-25")
MAY 4-8
Why Bad Things Happen to "Good" People
In this story, God tests Job's faithfulness by allowing Satan to attack his family and possessions.
Job 1:6,7: "Now there was a day when the sons of God [i.e., the angels] came [to the throne room of God in heaven] to present themselves before the LORD [and to report on their activities], and Satan [the devil] came also among them. And the LORD [God] said unto Satan, Whence comest thou [where did you come from]? Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, From going to and fro [back and forth] in the earth, and from walking up and down in it."
Job 1:8: "And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou [have you] considered [carefully observed] my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect [person--or, in this case, a godly and morally excellent person] and an upright [honest] man, one that feareth [fears, respects and obeys] God, and escheweth [shuns, avoids] evil?"
Job 1:9-10,11: "Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, Doth [does] Job fear God for nought [for nothing]? Hast not thou made an hedge [haven't you placed a barrier of protection] about [around] him, and about his house [meaning his family], and about all that he hath on every side [or 'around everything else that he has']? thou hast blessed the work of his hands [or 'you (God) have helped Job become successful'], and his [Job's] substance [consisting of his money and possessions] is increased in the land. But put forth thine [stretch out your] hand now, and touch [smite, strike] all that he [Job] hath [has], and he will curse thee [you, God] to thy [your] face." [Note: Satan wants to prove that Job is a hypocrite and doesn't really love God.]
Job 1:12: "And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, all that he [Job] hath is in thy power [under your control]; only upon himself put not forth thine hand [in other words, just don't touch him]. So Satan went forth [went away] from the presence of the LORD [in order to carry out his plan]."
Job 1:13-14,15: "And there was a day when his [Job's] sons and his daughters were eating and drinking wine [at a banquet] in their eldest [oldest] brother's house: And there came a messenger [one of Job's servants] unto Job, and said, The [1,000] oxen were plowing, and the [500] asses [the she-asses, or donkeys] [were] feeding beside them: And the Sabeans fell upon [attacked] them, and took them away; yea [yes], they have [also] slain [killed] the servants [of Job] with the edge of the sword; and I only am escaped alone [or 'I alone have escaped,' or 'only I have escaped'] to tell thee [you] [what happened]."
Job 1:16: "While he [the first messenger/servant] was yet [still] speaking, there came also another [messenger/servant], and said, The fire of God [probably referring to lightning] is fallen from heaven [from the sky], and hath burned up the [7,000] sheep, and the servants, and consumed [destroyed] them; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee [you]."
Job 1:17: "While he [the second messenger/servant] was yet speaking, there came also another [messenger/servant], and said, The Chaldeans made out three bands [meaning they divided themselves into three groups], and fell upon the [3,000] camels, and have carried them away, yea, and [have] slain the servants with the edge of the sword; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee."
Job 1:18,19: "While he [the third messenger/servant] was yet speaking, there came also another [messenger/servant], and said [to Job], Thy [your] [seven] sons and thy [three] daughters were eating and drinking wine in their eldest brother's house: And, behold, there came a great wind [a whirlwind, or tornado] from the wilderness [across the desert], and smote [struck] the four corners of the house, and it fell upon the young men [and women], and they are dead; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee."
Job 1:20-21: "Then Job arose [stood up], and rent his mantle [ripped his clothes], and shaved his head, and fell down [lay down, stretched out, face down] upon the ground, and worshipped [God], And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb [at birth, meaning he came into the world with nothing (no possessions)], and naked shall I return thither [there, at death, meaning he would go to the grave with nothing]: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD."
Job 1:22: "In all [of] this [trouble,] Job sinned not [did not sin], nor charged [he, or 'nor did he blame'] God foolishly."
"… From this instructive narrative [story] of the manner in which Job received afflictions [things that cause pain or distress], we may learn
"(1) That true piety [devotion to God] will bear the removal of property and friends without murmuring [complaining]. Religion is not based on such things, and their removal cannot shake it. It is founded deeper in the soul, and mere external changes cannot destroy it.
"(2) When we are afflicted, we should not vent our wrath [express our anger] on winds and waves; on the fraud [deception] and perfidy [untrustworthiness] of our fellow-men; on embarrassments and changes in the commercial world; on the pestilence [disease] and the storm. Any or all of these may be employed as instruments in taking away our property or our friends, but we should trace the calamity [disaster] ultimately to God. Storms and winds and waves, malignant [evil] spirits and our fellow-men, do no more than God permits. They are all restrained and kept within proper limits. They are not directed by chance, but they are under the control of an intelligent Being [i.e., God], and are the wise appointment of a holy God.
"(3) God has a right to remove our comforts. He gave them - not to be our permanent inheritance, but to be withdrawn [taken away] when he pleases. It is a proof of goodness that we have been permitted to tread [walk around] his earth so long - though we should be allowed to walk it no more; to breathe his air so long - though we should be permitted to inhale it no more; to look upon his sun and moon and stars so long - though we should be permitted to walk by their light no more; to enjoy the society [companionship, company] of the friends whom he has given us so long - though we should enjoy that society no longer. A temporary gift may be removed at the pleasure of the giver, and we hold all our comforts at the mere good pleasure of God.
"(4) We see the nature of true resignation. It is not because we can always see the 'reason' why we are afflicted; it consists in bowing to the will of a holy and intelligent God, and in the feeling that he has a 'right' to remove what he has given us. It is his; and may be taken away when he pleases. It may be, and should be yielded, without a complaint - and to do this 'because' God wills it, is true resignation.
"(5) We see the true source of 'comfort' in trials. It is not in the belief that things are regulated [controlled] by chance and hap-hazard [lacking any obvious principle of organization]; or even that they are controlled by physical laws. We may have the clearest philosophical view of the mode [manner] in which tempests [storms] sweep away property, or [in which] the pestilence [disease] [sweeps away] our friends; we may understand the laws by which all this is done, but this affords no consolation [comfort]. It is only when we perceive [become aware of] an 'intelligent Being' presiding over these events, and see that they are the result of plan and intention on his part, that we can find comfort in trial. What satisfaction is it for me to understand the law by which fire burns when my property is swept away; or to know 'how' disease acts on the human frame when my child dies; or how the plague produces its effects on the body when friend after friend is laid in the grave? This is 'philosophy;' and this is the consolation which this world furnishes. I want some higher consolation than that which results from the knowledge of unconscious laws. I want to have the assurance that it is the result of intelligent design, and that this design is connected with a benevolent [well-meaning and kind] end - and that I find only in religion.
"(6) We see the 'power' of religion in sustaining in the time of trial. How calm and submissive was this holy man [referring to Job]! How peaceful and resigned [he was]! Nothing else but piety could have done this. Philosophy blunts [weakens] the feelings, paralyses the sensibilities, and chills the soul; but it does not give consolation. It is only confidence in God; a feeling that he is right; and a profound [intense] and holy acquiescence [acceptance] in his will, that can produce support in trials like these. This we may have as well so Job; and this is indispensable in a world so full of calamity and sorrow as this is."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/job-1.html, "Verse 22")
MAY 3
The Value of Wisdom
Proverbs 3:13-14: "Happy [blessed] is the man [or woman or child] that findeth [finds] wisdom [by reading and studying the Bible and by asking God for it through prayer], and [happy is] the man [or woman or child] that getteth [gets] understanding. For the merchandise of it [wisdom] is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof [i.e., of wisdom] [is better] than [the gain of] fine gold."
Proverbs 3:15-16: "She [God's wisdom, personified, or acting like a person] is more precious [valuable] than rubies: and all the things thou canst [you can] desire are not to be compared unto her. Length of days [long life] is in her [wisdom's] right hand; and in her left hand [are] riches and honour."
-- Verses 13-15: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-3-index/proverbs-3_13-15/
-- Verses 16-20: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-3-index/proverbs-3_16-20/
MAY 1-2
Psalm 145:8: "The LORD [God] is gracious [kind, good, friendly], and full of compassion [sympathy and concern for people who are suffering and/or experiencing misfortune]; [he is also] slow to anger [not easily angered], and of great mercy [unwilling to cause pain, not cruel, willing to forgive]."
"The Lord is gracious to those that serve him; he is full of compassion to those that need him, slow to anger to those that have offended him, and of great mercy to all that seek him …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/psalms/145-8.html, "Henry's Complete Commentary on the Bible," "Psalms 145:8")
Referring to a virtuous (physically, morally, and spiritually strong) woman, King Solomon wrote:
Proverbs 31:20: "She stretcheth [stretches, holds] out her hand to the poor [people]; yea [yes], she reacheth [reaches] forth her hands to the needy [people]."
_______________
The above verse concerns charity, or helping those who are in need of food, clothing, shelter, assistance, etc.* * * * *
Salem Bible Church has a good commentary on this verse. It ends with this:"k. I John 3:17-18 -- 'But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? 18My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.'
"• Love is a verb. Love doesn't just FEEL sorry for others. It does something about it.
"• The virtuous woman DID have this world's goods. She was a woman of means [i.e, she was rich or well off].
"• And she was also a woman of compassion with a tender heart.
"• When she saw a neighbor in need, she did not 'shut up her heart.' Instead, she opened her heart and she opened her hands [and gave what she could].
"• She didn't love in word only; she loved in DEED.
"• She was a woman who was strong in virtue.
"l. We are all (men and women) challenged to follow this example: 'But to do good and to communicate (share) forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.' (Heb. 13:16)"
If you want to read more of the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-31-index/proverbs-31_20/.
MAY 30
Proverbs 30:12: "There is a generation [a segment of society which is made up of a group of people who were born and grew up at around the same time] that are pure [clean, righteous (morally right), without fault] in their own eyes, and yet [in God's eyes (and in other people's eyes, too),] [this generation] is not washed from their filthiness [referring to the filthiness of their hearts, which is the source of the bad things that they think, say, and do]."
_______________
According to Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church, self-righteous people need to repent (change their way of thinking) and acknowledge the truth (by seeing themselves as God sees them).____________________
Pastor Delany's commentary on this verse has examples of people (both saved and unsaved) who are self-righteous hypocrites. According to the pastor, these people can be found everywhere, including in Hollywood, in offices and homes, and in politics, education, business, and the marketplace. Even some believers (Christians) can be considered part of this group.
If you want to read the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-30-index/proverbs-30_12/.
* * * * *
Note: Everyone on earth has inherited a sin nature from Adam and Eve, and consequently we were born with filthy hearts, which get dirtier and dirtier each time we sin as we go through life. We are 'washed from our filthiness' (cleansed from sin) for the first time when, through faith, (1) we believe that Jesus died on the cross to pay for our sins and that he rose again, and (2) we receive him as our personal Savior by asking him to come into our hearts and save us from hell. Any new sins that we commit after salvation will break our daily fellowship with God. When that happens and we become aware of it, we need to sincerely pray and ask God to forgive us so that our slate can be wiped clean, our guilt will be removed, and our fellowship with him can be restored.____________________
The following articles explain the difference between "positional forgiveness" (which we receive from God--once--at the time of salvation) and "relational forgiveness" (which we receive from God each time we confess our sins to him after we're saved):
-- "What does it mean that, if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just (1 John 1:9)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/confess-our-sins-faithful-and-just.html)
-- "Why do we need to confess our sins if they have already been forgiven (1 John 1:9)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/confession-forgiveness.html)
MAY 29
During the Last Supper with his disciples (or shortly thereafter, as they were going to the Mount of Olives and Garden of Gethsemane), Jesus said:
John 15:13: "Greater love hath [has] no man [or 'no one has greater love'] than this, that a man [referring specifically to himself (Jesus), or anyone else in the world] [would] lay down his [or her] life [i.e., be willing to die] for his [or her] friends."
_______________
Jesus himself is the greatest example of this truth, as he willingly suffered an excruciating (extremely painful) death on the cross to save the souls of all mankind, including not only his friends (disciples) but also his enemies and people he never met.* * * * *
TODAY IS MEMORIAL DAY
TODAY IS MEMORIAL DAY
Throughout history, many man and women
have lost their lives while serving in the military.
Today is a special day that the United States
government has set aside to remember
and honor these people.
have lost their lives while serving in the military.
Today is a special day that the United States
government has set aside to remember
and honor these people.
* * * * *
Note: For information on the history of Memorial Day, an explanation of the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day, and an overview of the various branches of the U.S. military, read these articles:-- "Memorial Day"
(https://www.military.com/memorial-day)
-- "What Are the Branches of the U.S. Military"
(https://www.military.com/join-armed-forces/us-military-branches-overview.html)
MAY 28
Luke 6:38: "Give [to others; especially, poor and needy people], and it shall be given unto you [in return]; good measure [full measure, as when you fill a measuring cup to the brim (top) with solid food, like figs or grapes], pressed down, and shaken together [to make room for more], and running over [overflowing], shall men [and women and children] give into your bosom [or to you--see note below*]. For with the same measure [or amount of goodness or kindness] that ye [you] mete withal [measure out, give to others] it shall be measured to you again [or given back to you]."
_______________
In other words, God will make sure that our charitable deeds (the nice things that we do for others) are repaid.* * * * *
*According to the commentary by Albert Barnes:"… The word 'bosom' here has reference to a custom among Oriental [Asian] nations of making the bosom or front part of their garments large, so that articles could be carried in them, answering the purpose of [or similar to] our pockets …"
(Source: https://truthaccordingtoscripture.com/commentaries/bnb/luke-6.php, "Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible," "Verses 20-49")
MAY 27
Revelation 1:8: "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending [of all things], saith [says] the Lord [Jesus Christ, a member of--and on behalf of--the Trinity, or triune Godhead (i.e., one God in three persons--Father, Son, and Holy Spirit)], which is [currently] [the Almighty God], and which was [always has been] [the Almighty God], and which is to come [always will be], the Almighty [omnipotent, all-powerful, one true] [God]."
_______________
Note: Alpha and omega are the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet.* * * * *
Check out the following article if you want to see what the 24 Greek letters look like and learn how to pronounce each one. It also includes many other interesting facts about the Greek alphabet.-- "Ancient Greece: Greek Alphabet"
* * * * *
For more information about the meaning of the terms Alpha and Omega and Trinity, here are two articles you may want to read:-- "What does it mean that Jesus is the Alpha and the Omega?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/alpha-and-omega.html)
-- "What does the Bible teach about the Trinity?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/Trinity-Bible.html)
MAY 25-26
Jesus Feeds the Multitude (4,000+ People)
During his ministry on earth, Jesus performed many miracles. This one took place on a mountain near the Sea of Galilee. The same account is recorded in Mark 8:1-10.
Matthew 15:32: "Then Jesus called his disciples unto him, and said, I have compassion on [or pity or sympathy for] the multitude [referring to the people in the crowd], because they continue [have remained] with me now [for] three days, and have nothing [left] to eat: and I will not send them away fasting [hungry, without eating], lest they [or else they might] faint in [on] the way [home]."
Matthew 15:33: "And his disciples say unto him [Jesus], Whence should we have [from where should we get] so much bread in the wilderness, as to [be able to] fill [the stomachs of, or satisfy] so great a multitude [so many people]?"
Matthew 15:34-35,36: "And Jesus saith unto them [the disciples], How many loaves [of bread] have ye [do you have]? And they said, Seven, and a few little fishes. And he [Jesus] commanded the multitude [the people] to sit down on the ground. And he took the seven loaves and the fishes, and gave thanks [to God], and brake them [broke them, tore them apart], and gave [the pieces] to his disciples, and the disciples [gave them] to the multitude."
Matthew 15:37: "And they [the people in the crowd] did all eat, and [their stomachs] were filled: and they [the disciples] took up of the broken meat [the food] that was left [over, or uneaten,] [a total of] seven [large] baskets full."
Matthew 15:38: "And they that did eat [that day] were four thousand men, beside [besides, plus, in addition to] women and children."
MAY 24
Proverbs 24:17-18: "Rejoice not [don't gloat (be joyful in an arrogant way, or with malicious satisfaction)] when thine [your] enemy falleth [falls] [into trouble or misfortune, as when he or she experiences physical suffering, pain, and/or death], and let not thine [your] heart be glad [or 'don't be glad'] when he [or she--your enemy] stumbleth [stumbles, or when bad things happen to him or her]: Lest [or else] the LORD [God] [will] see it [your rejoicing], and it [will] displease him, and he [will] turn away his wrath [anger] from him [or her, meaning the enemy]."
_______________
In other words, we shouldn't be happy when others suffer, including our enemies. As long as we don't gloat over our enemies' misfortunes, God will take care of any revenge and punishment that is necessary for them. If we do gloat, not only will God 'turn away his wrath' from our enemies, but he may punish us instead.* * * * *
Salem Bible Church has an excellent commentary on these verses, including an explanation of the important difference between rejoicing and gloating. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-24-index/proverbs-24_17-18/.MAY 23
The Apostle Paul Mentions His "Out of Body" Experience
2 Corinthians 12:2: "I [Paul] knew a man in Christ [a Christian, referring to himself] above [more than] fourteen years ago, (whether [he was] in the body, I cannot tell; or whether [he was] out of the body [or 'in the spirit'], I cannot tell: God knoweth [knows];) such an one [such a person] [had been] caught up to the third heaven [where God is--see note below*]."
2 Corinthians 12:3-4: "And I knew such a man, (whether [he was] in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) How that he [Paul] was caught up into paradise [heaven], and heard unspeakable [secret] words, which it is not lawful [permissible] for a man to utter [speak] [i.e. he was not given permission to tell others what he saw and heard--see note below**]."
_______________
*According to Albert Barnes, there are three heavens:-- The atmosphere and clouds, from the earth to the stars
-- The starry heavens, where the sun, moon, and stars are located
-- The heavens beyond the stars, where we find God, angels, and the souls of Christians who have died
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/2-corinthians-12.html, "Verse 2")
* * * * *
**In the Bible, nobody who went to heaven told others on earth about their experiences. Here's what Albert Barnes said about that in his commentary on 2 Corinthians 12:4:Note: All references in the following
quoted material have been omitted.
"… The transaction here referred to is very remarkable. It is the only instance in the Scriptures [Bible] of anyone who was taken to heaven, either in reality [real life] or in [a] vision, and who returned again to the earth and was then qualified to communicate important truths about the heavenly world from personal observation. Enoch and Elijah were taken to heaven; but they returned not to converse with people. Elijah appeared with Moses in conversation with Jesus on the mount of transfiguration; but they conversed [had a conversation, talked] with him only about his decease [death], which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. There would have been no propriety [it would not have been appropriate] for them to have spoken to Jesus of heaven, for he came down from heaven and was in heaven, and they were not permitted to speak to the disciples of [about] heaven. Lazarus was raised from the dead, but there is no intimation [indication] that they communicated any thing to the living [people--those who were still alive] about the heavenly world.quoted material have been omitted.
"Of all the million [people] who have [died and] been taken to heaven, not one has been permitted to return to bear his testimony to [or tell others about] its glories; to witness for God that he is faithful to his promises; to encourage his pious [religious] friends to persevere [carry on]; or to invite his impenitent [unrepentant, unsaved] friends to follow him to that glorious world. And so fixed is the Law; so settled is the principle, that even Lazarus was not permitted to go, though at the earnest request of the rich man in hell, and warn his friends not to follow hint [him] to that world of woe [referring to hell, a place of great sorrow and distress]. Muhammed indeed feigned [pretended] that he had made a journey to heaven, and he attempts to describe what he saw; and the difference between true inspiration and false or pretended inspiration is strikingly evinced [revealed] by the difference between [the apostle] Paul's dignified silence … and the puerilities [childish remarks] of the prophet of Mecca …"
For a description of Muhammad's journey to heaven,
read Albert Barnes' commentary on Verse 4 (see link below).
____________________read Albert Barnes' commentary on Verse 4 (see link below).
"The fact that Paul was not permitted to communicate what he had seen is very remarkable. It is natural to ask why it is so? Why has not God sent down departed saints [i.e., Christians who have died] to tell people of the glories of heaven? Why does he not permit them to come and bear testimony to what they have seen and enjoyed? Why not come and clear up the doubts of the pious; why not come and convince a thoughtless world; why not come and bear honorable testimony for God that he is faithful to reward his people? And especially why did he [God] not suffer [allow] Paul, whom he had permitted to behold the glories of paradise [heaven], to testify simply to what he had seen, and tell us what was there?"
____________________
"… the following may have been some of the reasons why Paul was not permitted to communicate what he saw to human beings:
"(1) It was designed for the support of Paul himself in view of the very remarkable trials which he was about to endure …
"(2) it is probable that if there were a full revelation of the glories of heaven we should not be able to comprehend [understand] it; or even if we did, we should be incredulous [unbelieving] in regard to it …
"(3) there are great truths which it is not the design [plan] of God to reveal to human beings …
"(4) there is enough revealed of heaven for our guidance and comfort in this world. God has told us what it will be in general …
"(5) … his [God's] purpose is that we shall here walk [on earth] by faith and not by sight … It may be added:
"I. That we have all the truth which we shall ever have about heaven here below. No other messenger will come; none of the pious dead [Christians who have died] will return. If people, therefore, are not willing to be saved [born again] in view of the truth which they have, they must be lost [unsaved, and on their way to hell]. God will communicate no more …"
The above numbered paragraphs only contain the
highlights of each point. For detailed explanations
see the commentary via the link provided below.
____________________highlights of each point. For detailed explanations
see the commentary via the link provided below.
To read the Mr. Barnes' entire commentary on 2 Corinthians 12:4, including the references, go to https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/2-corinthians-12.html, "Verse 4."
MAY 20-22
The Meaning of Jesus' Words, "Render Unto Caesar …"
This took place after Jesus told two parables (stories) while teaching in the temple at Jerusalem:
Matthew 22:15: "Then went the Pharisees [members of a religious sect (group), who considered themselves more righteous than the other Jewish people], and took counsel [sought advice, asked one another, discussed] how they might entangle [trap] him [Jesus] in his talk [or 'catch him in his words' during his conversation with them]."
Matthew 22:16,17: "And they sent out unto him [Jesus] their disciples [followers] [along] with the Herodians [members of a Jewish political party], saying, Master, we know that thou art [you are] true, and [that you] teachest [teach] the way of God in truth, neither carest thou [and neither do you care] for any man [person] [i.e., Jesus always taught the truth from God, whether the listeners agreed or not]: for thou regardest not [you do not regard] the person of men [meaning Jesus did not favor certain people over others, and he wasn't biased (influenced by what people did and said)]. Tell us therefore, What thinkest thou [what do you think]? Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar [in other words, 'should we pay taxes to the Roman government'], or not?"
Matthew 22:18-20,21: "But Jesus perceived [recognized, understood] their wickedness, and said, Why tempt ye me [why do you test me], ye hypocrites [you pretenders]? Shew [show] me the tribute [tax] money. And they brought unto him a penny [a denarius, which was a small silver coin in ancient Rome]. And he [Jesus] saith [said] unto them [the Pharisees and Herodians], Whose is this image and superscription [whose picture, name, and title are engraved on the coin]? They say unto him, Caesar's [because he was the emperor and a representative of the Roman government]. Then saith he [Jesus] unto them, Render [give] therefore unto Caesar [i.e., the government] the things which are Caesar's [the government's]; and [give] unto God the things that are God's."
Matthew 22:22: "When they had heard these words [i.e., Jesus' answer], they marvelled [were amazed, astonished, filled with wonder], and left him [Jesus], and went their way."
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You could say that what Jesus said in verse 21 ("Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's") is the true, biblical meaning of "separation of church and state."* * * * *
Note: I found a good explanation of Matthew 22:21 in an article entitled "Render Unto Caesar: What Jesus Was Actually Saying." It has an introduction and four sections:-- "The Image on the Coin"
-- "Correcting the People's Perspective"
-- "What This Doesn't Mean"
-- "Our Relationship to the Government"
Here are some excerpts from that article:
"In ancient times, an image on an object showed ownership. Since the Roman emperor also viewed himself as a god, some Jews objected to paying taxes with Roman money, calling it idolatry. By acknowledging the image of Caesar but not condemning it, Jesus confirms that this perspective [point of view] was flawed [wrong]. Caesar's right to claim taxes was backed up by his image appearing on Roman money. The image was not a demand for worship, just a demonstration of ownership."
"… Whether the Jewish audience paid their taxes or not, it was more important for them to focus on honoring their own "image"--the image of God that every human carries. Like the image of Caesar, the image of God suggests ownership of us. It's far more important to make sure we're pleasing God than the human government."
"… Jesus definitely promoted an attitude of respect and honor toward the government. This respect takes the form of obeying the law, paying taxes, and honoring our elected representatives. Remember, the government in Jesus' day was totalitarian [authoritarian] and ruled by a dictator. Even if we don't like our current political leaders, citizens placed them there through fair and open elections …"
If you want to read the rest of the article, here's the link: https://www.orbcfamily.org/faith/render-unto-caesar-what-jesus-was-actually-saying/.
* * * * *
GotQuestions.org has an article about these verses. It's entitled "What did Jesus mean when He said, 'Render to Caesar what is Caesar's'?" and can be found here: https://www.gotquestions.org/render-to-Caesar.html.MAY 18-19
Jesus Heals a Blind Man on the Sabbath Day
John 9:1,2-3: "And as Jesus passed by [probably as he was leaving the temple], he saw a man which was blind from his birth. And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind [see note below*]? Jesus answered, Neither hath [has] this man sinned, nor his parents: but [he was born blind so] that the [powerful] works of God should be made manifest [made known, revealed] in him [the blind man]."
John 9:4-5: "I [Jesus] must work [do] the works of him that sent me [to earth, meaning God the Father], while it is day [a period of time, not part of an actual 24-hour day--in this case, Jesus meant during his lifetime, or while he was alive]: the night [another period of time--in this case, after our death] cometh [comes], when no man [no one] can work. As long as I [Jesus] am in the world, I am the [spiritual] light of the world."
John 9:6,7: "When he [Jesus] had thus spoken, he spat [spit] on the ground, and made clay of the spittle [saliva], and he anointed [gently rubbed] the eyes of the blind man with the clay, And said unto him, Go, [and] wash in the pool of Siloam, (which is by interpretation, Sent.) He [the blind man] went his way therefore, and washed [in the pool of Siloam], and came [back, to where he had met Jesus,] seeing [i.e., not blind, able to see]."
_______________
From this story of the miraculous healing of a blind man, we learn that there are other reasons for suffering besides sin. In this case, it was so that the miracle of the blind man's healing would be seen by others and, as a result, would bring glory to God.* * * * *
*Regarding the suffering of children as punishment for past sins, Albert Barnes wrote:"… It was a universal [general, common] opinion among the Jews that calamities [disasters, tragedies] of all kinds were the effects [results] of sin. … Many of the Jews … believed in the doctrine of the transmigration of souls; or that the soul of a man, in consequence of sin, might be compelled to pass into other bodies, and be punished there. They also believed that an infant might sin before it was born … and that consequently this blindness might have come upon the child as a consequence of that. It was also a doctrine with many that the crime of the parent might be the cause of deformity in the child, particularly the violation of the command in Leviticus 20:18."
-- Note: Leviticus 20:18 says: "And if a man shall lie [down and have sex] with a woman having her sickness [her menstrual period], and shall uncover her nakedness; he hath [has] discovered her fountain [of blood], and she hath uncovered the fountain of her blood: and both of them shall be cut off from among their people."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/john/9-2.html, "Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible")
____________________
Here are some interesting beliefs about transmigration (the movement of a soul into another body after death) from Adam Clarke's commentary:
"… Most of the Asiatic [Asian] nations have believed in the doctrine of transmigration. The Hindoos [Hindus] still hold it; and profess to tell precisely the sin which the person committed in another body, by the afflictions which he endures in this [body]: they profess also to tell the cures for these. For instance, they say the headache is a punishment for having, in a former state, spoken irrevently [irreverently, disrespectfully] to father or mother. Madness is a punishment for having been disobedient to father or mother, or to one's spiritual guide [i.e., demonic spirit]. The epilepsy is a punishment for having, in a former state, administered poison to any one at the command of his master. Pain in the eyes is a punishment for having, in another body, coveted [lusted after] another man's wife. Blindness is a punishment for having killed his mother: but this person they say, before his new birth, will suffer many years' torment in hell. …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/john/9-2.html, "Clarke's Commentary")
____________________
Got Questions discusses transmigration (also known as reincarnation) in the following article: "What is the transmigration of souls?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/transmigration-of-souls.html.
MAY 17
Proverbs 17:15: "He [or she] that justifieth the wicked [i.e., the person who excuses wickedness (evil, sinful behavior), or declares a criminal or bad person to be righteous, or 'good'], and he [or she] that condemneth the just [i.e., the person who condemns (expresses strong disapproval of, or sentences to punishment) a morally upright or innocent person], even they both [meaning both kinds of people--those who 'justify the wicked' and those who 'condemn the just'] are [an] abomination [a disgusting or repulsive thing] to the LORD."
_______________
According to the Bible commentaries that I read, the above verse pertains mainly to injustice in our legal system--i.e., when bad people are intentionally set free, and innocent people are sent to prison--but it also refers to the "court" of public opinion (i.e., when we, the general public, call evil good, and good evil).* * * * *
Once again, the commentary by Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church is excellent and contains many examples of unintentional injustice (honest mistakes due to human error) and intentional injustice (things done on purpose to pervert, or corrupt, the law), both inside and outside the courtroom. Here is a sample:Unintentionsl Injustice
"c. Sometimes it happens through no fault of the court system.
"• Witnesses lie in court… (Ex. 23:1)
"• Evidence is tampered with… or accidentally mislabeled…
"• Eye witnesses sometimes have a faulty [inaccurate] recollection…
"• Sometimes there is a preponderance [an abundance] of circumstantial evidence that makes a person LOOK guilty…
"• Sometimes when all the evidence is laid out, honest, well meaning jurors draw the wrong conclusions.
"• Sometimes there's just not enough evidence available to condemn a guilty criminal.
"• Human error is always a possibility… and many a guilty person has been exonerated [declared innocent]… justified… because of human error.
"• We hear almost weekly about innocent men who were convicted 10, 20, even 30 years ago for crimes they did not commit--and are just now being exonerated due to DNA evidence that did not exist at the time.
"• Many of those cases were honest mistakes made based on the evidence they had…
"• But that does NOT seem to be the scenario [the thing that] Solomon describes here.
"• Solomon seems to be speaking here about INTENTIONAL injustice…"
Intentional Injustice
"d. Injustice also occurs and it IS the fault of the [judicial, court] system.
"• Deut. 25:1 -- why do you suppose this law had to be instituted in Israel? Doesn't that go without saying?
"• It was instituted because sometimes judges were crooked [dishonest]… and God wanted a law on the books to DEAL with that situation.
"• Sometimes they justify the wicked out of popular demand (Ex. 23:2)
"• Sometimes those in positions of power justify the wicked upon a bribe… or because of some other means of personal gain. (Ex.23:8)
"• Sometimes they justify the wicked to keep their job…
"• A judge might justify the wicked because the one he knows to be the guilty party is a friend or relative…
"• A judge might do so as a favor to another corrupt official.
"• Sometimes they justify the wicked to promote their own political agenda."
If you want to read the rest of the pastor's commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-17-index/proverbs-17_15/.
* * * * *
Regarding Proverbs 17:15, Matthew Henry wrote:"… When those that are entrusted with the administration of public justice, [such as] judges, juries, witnesses, prosecutors, counsel [lawyers], do either acquit [set free] the guilty [person or people] or condemn [sentence to punishment] those that are not guilty, or in the least contribute to either [verdict]; this defeats the end [or purpose] of government, which is to protect the good [people] and punish the bad …"
(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/proverbs/17.html, "Verse 15")
MAY 15-16
Proverbs 15:27: "He that is greedy of gain [the person who wants to be rich and tries to get things dishonestly, through cheating or violence] troubleth [troubles] his [or her] own house [household, family]; but he [or she] that hateth [hates, refuses to take] gifts [in this case, bribes--to do something unjust or wrong, or to obtain money unlawfully] shall live [a long, fulfilling (satisfying, happy), and peaceful life]."
_______________
Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church has an excellent commentary on this verse, including the following examples of how we can be "greedy of gain" and cause trouble for our families: cheating on our tax returns, embellishing [adding extra details, especially ones that are not true, to] our resumes, becoming involved in shady [dishonest] business deals, taking bribes, and gambling.____________________
Especially interesting and eye-opening is how the behavior described above affects our children. Here's what the commentary says in paragraph 4 under "B. Troubling One's Own House":
"4. There are various WAYS in which a dishonest, greedy man troubles his house.
"a. He may trouble his family with the hardships they experience because of him being arrested… losing his job… being imprisoned [put in prison]… losing their house… etc.
"b. But he may also trouble his house for years to come by TEACHING HIS CHILDREN to follow his behavior.
"→ Our kids pick up on our values by observation.
"→ The dishonest, greedy man demonstrates his character not only when he robs a bank. His kids will pick up on as they are growing up.
"→ Often those values (or lack thereof) are passed on to the next generation.
"c. This may go on for many generations. (Ex. 34:7)
"• Alcoholism and drug abuse is often passed on in a family. Partly perhaps to genetics [heredity]… but mostly through LEARNED and observed behavior!
"• You don't have to worry about a genetic predisposition to alcoholism if you don't take your first drink!
"• If the parents are involved in lying, cheating, stealing, those poor kids don't stand a chance of growing up honest!
"• Domestic violence is also learned and passed on.
"• Trouble brought into the home is often kept there… and passed on to future generations to CONTINUE to trouble that household…
"d. Kids are like sponges and they are watching and observing everything their parents do.
"• And more often than not, those qualities are repeated in their lives.
"e. A man who is greedy for gain can trouble his own household even if he does nothing illegal!
"• If a man is so driven to succeed materially [i.e., get rich] that he works so many hours that he never has any TIME for his family, he too troubles his house.
"• Those kids will grow up with many toys and nice clothes, but will RESENT that dad never spent any time with them.
"• Kids grow up fast… and if they grow up angry, bitter, and resentful because Dad was more interested in material gain than in them… that exacerbates [worsens, makes worse] the trouble in the home…"
____________________
Concerning bribes, Pastor Delany says that people (including politicians, judges, police, and chief executive officers) can sometimes be bought off by money, and justice can also be perverted [corrupted] by money. Many people are willing to lie, cheat, look the other way, and refuse to blow the whistle [expose wrongdoing, make something wrong known publicly] when offered money or other things to keep quiet.
If you want to read the rest of the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-15-index/proverbs-15_27/.
MAY 14
To the Israelites, reminding them of the fifth commandment, Moses said:
Deuteronomy 5:16: "Honour thy father and thy mother [by treating them with love and respect], as the LORD thy [your] God hath [has] commanded thee [you]; [the reason for doing this is so] that thy days may be prolonged [i.e., so you may live a long time], and [so] that it may go well with thee [i.e., so you will be happy], in the land which the LORD thy God giveth [gives] thee [in this case (for the Israelites), meaning the land of Canaan]."
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The Ten Commandments are part of God's moral law, which remains in effect today. Consequently, the fifth commandment, instructing people to "Honour thy father and thy mother," applies to everyone throughout the world, not just the nation of Israel.* * * * *
In celebration of today's
holiday, I'd like to wish all of you
wonderful moms throughout the world a
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!
MAY 12-13holiday, I'd like to wish all of you
wonderful moms throughout the world a
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!
Christians Are Loved by God (Always!) and Chastened When Necessary
In a letter to the Hebrew Christians, the apostle Paul wrote:
Hebrews 12:5: "And [it appears that] ye [you] have forgotten the exhortation [encouragement or urging to do something] [written by King Solomon in Proverbs 3:11-12] which speaketh [speaks, is addressed] unto you as unto children [and which says], My son, despise not thou [don't ignore or regard as an unimportant thing] the chastening [correction] of the Lord, nor [and don't] faint [or, in other words, be sure to bear up (remain strong and cheerful) with faith and patience; don't be discouraged] when thou art [you are] rebuked of [criticized or reprimanded by] him [God]:"
Hebrews 12:6: "For whom the Lord loveth [loves] he chasteneth [chastens] [which means that because God loves Christians, he corrects us when we do wrong--see note below*], and [he (God)] scourgeth [disciplines] every son [person] whom he receiveth [receives, welcomes] [into the 'family of God' through spiritual birth (referring to born-again Christians)]."
Hebrews 12:7-8: "If ye endure chastening [if you experience correction], God dealeth [deals] with you as [fathers deal] with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not [does not chasten]? But if ye be without chastisement [punishment, or correction of faults], whereof all are partakers [or 'of which all true children of God take part'], then are ye bastards [illegitimate children] and not sons [and daughters--or children] [of God]."
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Today's verses apply to all born-again Christians.* * * * *
*According to Albert Barnes:The phrase For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth in Hebrews 12:6 "… means that it is a universal [general, common] rule that God sends trials [afflictions, suffering] on those whom he truly loves. It does not, of course, mean that he sends chastisement which is not deserved; or that he sends it 'for the mere purpose' of inflicting [causing] pain. That cannot be. But it means that by his chastisements he shows that he has a paternal [fatherly] care for us. He does not treat us with neglect and unconcern, as a father often does [with] his illegitimate child [referring to a child whose parents are not married to each other]. The very fact that he [God] corrects us shows that he has toward us a father's feelings, and exercises toward us a paternal care. If he did not, he would let us go on without any attention, and leave us to pursue a course [path, life] of sin that would involve us in ruin …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/hebrews-12.html, "Verse 6")
____________________
Also regarding Hebrews 12:6, Pastor Chuck Smith wrote this to born-again Christians:
"… Don't despise the chastening of the Lord. It's proof that God loves you. It's proof that you're a son [of God].
"Now if you can do evil and get by [get away] with it, then be very concerned. If you've been cheating over a long period of time and you've been getting by with it, you've been living in a false relationship for a long time and you're getting by with it, you'd better be careful. That is a good indication that you're not a son [of God]. You're in a dangerous place [if] you can sin with impunity [freedom from punishment, harm, loss, pain, etc.], without getting [chastened by] God. But you know, the neat thing about God is that He loves us so much, He is going to make sure we get caught. And that is sometimes a cause of great consternation [anxiety, dismay] in the mind of the Christian, because everybody on the job may be cheating a little bit on their time card. And so, because everybody is doing it I am tempted to cheat on my time card. Wham! I get zapped right like that. 'But they all did it. None of them got caught.' No, they're not sons [of God]. God won't let you get by with it, because you're a son. God is going to see that you get caught. 'That is not fair!' Well, it really is. God will not let you get by with sin. God will not let you get by with evil, because you're His son. And though everybody else may get by, not you. So when you get caught just rejoice and say, 'Oh man, He [God] doesn't let me get by with evil,' and it's proof that you're His son. If we [Christians] endure [suffer] chastening, God deals with us as sons. If you are without chastisement, then you're not a son [of God] …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/hebrews/12-5.html, "Smith's Bible Commentary")
* * * * *
GotQuestions.org has an article that answers the question "What does it mean to be chastened?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/chasten-chastening.html.MAY 11
Biblical Definition of "Gospel"
In a letter to the church at Corinth, the apostle Paul wrote:
1 Corinthians 15:1: "Moreover [in addition to what I have already said in my letter], brethren [fellow Christians], I declare unto you the gospel [I want to remind you of the good news] which I preached unto you [regarding the fundamental (basic) truths of Christianity, which are the foundation of the Christian church], which also ye [you] have received [embraced, believed, willingly accepted], and wherein ye stand [firm, or faithful and strong, as a Christian church … or, 'on which your faith is based'];"
1 Corinthians 15:2: "By which [referring to the gospel] also ye are saved [born again, saved from hell], if ye keep in memory [if you remember] what I preached unto you [concerning the gospel and salvation], unless ye have believed in vain [falsely, without meaning]." [In other words, Paul was telling the people that their salvation depended upon their belief in the gospel, unless they believed a story that Paul had made up (which he didn't, as everything that he said was based on facts) or because their profession of faith in Christ was false, or not sincere.]
1 Corinthians 15:3-4: "For I [Paul] delivered unto you [or told you or taught you, in person, through preaching] first of all [most importantly] that which I also received [from the Lord, meaning those doctrines or teachings that Paul had received from God regarding the gospel; i.e.,], how that Christ [Jesus--the Son of God and Messiah] died for our sins according to the scriptures [in this case, referring to the Old Testament]; And that he [Jesus Christ] was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:"
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Gospel refers to the death, burial, and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. It consists of three parts: (1) Jesus died on the cross to pay for our sins, (2) he was buried, and (3) he rose again (came back to life) three days later.* * * * *
Today's verses stress the importance of Jesus' death,, burial, and resurrection. According to the apostle Paul, if you don't believe the gospel, you can't be saved.* * * * *
The following articles give additional information about the gospel and salvation:-- "What are the essentials of the gospel message?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/gospel-message.html)
-- "Is it necessary to fully understand the Gospel to go to heaven?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/fully-understand.html)
* * * * *
Note: I've written some gospel tracts that explain how to be saved according to the Bible. In case you're curious or interested, you can find them here: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.MAY 10
Reconciliation Before Worship
Speaking to his disciples during the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said:
Matthew 5:23: "Therefore if thou [you] bring thy [your] gift [meaning 'sacrifice' (during Bible times) or 'offering'] to the altar [in the temple, synagogue, church, or other place of worship], and [while you are] there [you] rememberest [remember or recall] that thy brother [or sister--actually, anyone (male or female), especially a fellow worshiper] hath ought [has something] against thee [you] [or 'has been offended or hurt by you in any way'];"
Matthew 5:24: "Leave there [in that place] thy gift before [in front of, at] the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to [or 'first apologize to or make up with'] thy brother [or 'sister,' as noted above], and then come [back] and offer thy gift [to God] [see note below*]."
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*Albert Barnes has an excellent explanation for reconciliation in his commentary on Matthew 5:24:"First be reconciled - This means to settle the difficulty; to make proper acknowledgment or satisfaction for the injury. If you have wronged him, make restitution. If you owe him a debt which ought to be paid, pay it. If you have injured his character, confess it and seek pardon. If he is under an erroneous [incorrect] impression, if your conduct [behavior] has been such as to lead him to suspect that you have injured him, make an explanation. Do all in your power; and all you ought to do, to have the matter settled. From this we learn:
"I. That, in order to worship God acceptably, we must do justice to our fellow-men.
"II. Our worship [of God] will not be acceptable unless we do all we can to live peaceably with others.
"III. It is our duty to seek reconciliation with others when we have injured [hurt or offended] them.
"IV. This [thing--seeking reconciliation] should be done before we attempt to worship God.
"V. This is often the reason why God does not accept our offerings, and we go empty away from our devotions. We do not do what we ought [should do] to others; we cherish [hold on to] improper feelings or refuse to make proper acknowledgments, and God will not accept such attempts to worship him."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/matthew-5.html, "Verse 23-24")
____________________
Regarding reconciliation, Charles Spurgeon (another Bible commentator) wrote:
"… Only when we have remembered our wrong-doing, and made reconciliation can we hope for acceptance with the Lord. The rule is -- first peace with man, and then acceptance with God …"
(Source: https://www.preceptaustin.org/matthew-5-commentary-spurgeon, "Matthew 5:23, 24)
MAY 9
Why Women Were Created
This took place on the sixth day of creation:
Genesis 2:20: "And Adam [the first person that God ever created] gave names to all cattle [livestock], and to the fowl of the air [birds, flying insects, etc.], and to every beast of the field [wild animals]; but for Adam [out of all of the creatures mentioned] there was not found an help meet [helpmate (helpful companion or partner)] for him."
Genesis 2:21-22: "And the LORD God caused a deep sleep [like when you're given anesthesia for surgery] to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he [God] took [out] one of his [Adam's] ribs [see note below*], and closed up the flesh [the soft part of a person's body between the skin and bones] instead thereof; And [from] the rib, which the LORD God had taken [removed] from man [Adam], made he a woman [Eve--see note below**], and brought her unto the man."
Genesis 2:23-24: "And Adam said, This [person, Eve,] is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. Therefore [for this reason] shall a man leave his father and his mother [meaning he shall not live with them anymore], and shall cleave unto [or adhere or stick to, join together in marriage and live with] his wife: and they shall be one flesh [or one body, referring to the development of a strong marriage bond between the man and woman]."
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*Like me, you may have wondered, "Since God took a rib from Adam to make Eve, does that mean men have one less rib than women?" You'll find the surprising answer in the GotQuestions.org article by the same name. Here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/one-less-rib.html.* * * * *
**Commenting on Genesis 2:21-22, Matthew Henry said:"… the woman was made of a rib out of the side of Adam; not made out of his head to rule over him, nor out of his feet to be trampled upon [stomped on] by him, but out of his side to be equal with him, under his arm to be protected, and near his heart to be beloved."
(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/genesis/2.html, "Verses 21-25")
MAY 4-8
Why Bad Things Happen to "Good" People
In this story, God tests Job's faithfulness by allowing Satan to attack his family and possessions.
Job 1:6,7: "Now there was a day when the sons of God [i.e., the angels] came [to the throne room of God in heaven] to present themselves before the LORD [and to report on their activities], and Satan [the devil] came also among them. And the LORD [God] said unto Satan, Whence comest thou [where did you come from]? Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, From going to and fro [back and forth] in the earth, and from walking up and down in it."
Job 1:8: "And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou [have you] considered [carefully observed] my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect [person--or, in this case, a godly and morally excellent person] and an upright [honest] man, one that feareth [fears, respects and obeys] God, and escheweth [shuns, avoids] evil?"
Job 1:9-10,11: "Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, Doth [does] Job fear God for nought [for nothing]? Hast not thou made an hedge [haven't you placed a barrier of protection] about [around] him, and about his house [meaning his family], and about all that he hath on every side [or 'around everything else that he has']? thou hast blessed the work of his hands [or 'you (God) have helped Job become successful'], and his [Job's] substance [consisting of his money and possessions] is increased in the land. But put forth thine [stretch out your] hand now, and touch [smite, strike] all that he [Job] hath [has], and he will curse thee [you, God] to thy [your] face." [Note: Satan wants to prove that Job is a hypocrite and doesn't really love God.]
Job 1:12: "And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, all that he [Job] hath is in thy power [under your control]; only upon himself put not forth thine hand [in other words, just don't touch him]. So Satan went forth [went away] from the presence of the LORD [in order to carry out his plan]."
Job 1:13-14,15: "And there was a day when his [Job's] sons and his daughters were eating and drinking wine [at a banquet] in their eldest [oldest] brother's house: And there came a messenger [one of Job's servants] unto Job, and said, The [1,000] oxen were plowing, and the [500] asses [the she-asses, or donkeys] [were] feeding beside them: And the Sabeans fell upon [attacked] them, and took them away; yea [yes], they have [also] slain [killed] the servants [of Job] with the edge of the sword; and I only am escaped alone [or 'I alone have escaped,' or 'only I have escaped'] to tell thee [you] [what happened]."
Job 1:16: "While he [the first messenger/servant] was yet [still] speaking, there came also another [messenger/servant], and said, The fire of God [probably referring to lightning] is fallen from heaven [from the sky], and hath burned up the [7,000] sheep, and the servants, and consumed [destroyed] them; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee [you]."
Job 1:17: "While he [the second messenger/servant] was yet speaking, there came also another [messenger/servant], and said, The Chaldeans made out three bands [meaning they divided themselves into three groups], and fell upon the [3,000] camels, and have carried them away, yea, and [have] slain the servants with the edge of the sword; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee."
Job 1:18,19: "While he [the third messenger/servant] was yet speaking, there came also another [messenger/servant], and said [to Job], Thy [your] [seven] sons and thy [three] daughters were eating and drinking wine in their eldest brother's house: And, behold, there came a great wind [a whirlwind, or tornado] from the wilderness [across the desert], and smote [struck] the four corners of the house, and it fell upon the young men [and women], and they are dead; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee."
Job 1:20-21: "Then Job arose [stood up], and rent his mantle [ripped his clothes], and shaved his head, and fell down [lay down, stretched out, face down] upon the ground, and worshipped [God], And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb [at birth, meaning he came into the world with nothing (no possessions)], and naked shall I return thither [there, at death, meaning he would go to the grave with nothing]: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD."
Job 1:22: "In all [of] this [trouble,] Job sinned not [did not sin], nor charged [he, or 'nor did he blame'] God foolishly."
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In his commentary, Albert Barnes wrote:"… From this instructive narrative [story] of the manner in which Job received afflictions [things that cause pain or distress], we may learn
"(1) That true piety [devotion to God] will bear the removal of property and friends without murmuring [complaining]. Religion is not based on such things, and their removal cannot shake it. It is founded deeper in the soul, and mere external changes cannot destroy it.
"(2) When we are afflicted, we should not vent our wrath [express our anger] on winds and waves; on the fraud [deception] and perfidy [untrustworthiness] of our fellow-men; on embarrassments and changes in the commercial world; on the pestilence [disease] and the storm. Any or all of these may be employed as instruments in taking away our property or our friends, but we should trace the calamity [disaster] ultimately to God. Storms and winds and waves, malignant [evil] spirits and our fellow-men, do no more than God permits. They are all restrained and kept within proper limits. They are not directed by chance, but they are under the control of an intelligent Being [i.e., God], and are the wise appointment of a holy God.
"(3) God has a right to remove our comforts. He gave them - not to be our permanent inheritance, but to be withdrawn [taken away] when he pleases. It is a proof of goodness that we have been permitted to tread [walk around] his earth so long - though we should be allowed to walk it no more; to breathe his air so long - though we should be permitted to inhale it no more; to look upon his sun and moon and stars so long - though we should be permitted to walk by their light no more; to enjoy the society [companionship, company] of the friends whom he has given us so long - though we should enjoy that society no longer. A temporary gift may be removed at the pleasure of the giver, and we hold all our comforts at the mere good pleasure of God.
"(4) We see the nature of true resignation. It is not because we can always see the 'reason' why we are afflicted; it consists in bowing to the will of a holy and intelligent God, and in the feeling that he has a 'right' to remove what he has given us. It is his; and may be taken away when he pleases. It may be, and should be yielded, without a complaint - and to do this 'because' God wills it, is true resignation.
"(5) We see the true source of 'comfort' in trials. It is not in the belief that things are regulated [controlled] by chance and hap-hazard [lacking any obvious principle of organization]; or even that they are controlled by physical laws. We may have the clearest philosophical view of the mode [manner] in which tempests [storms] sweep away property, or [in which] the pestilence [disease] [sweeps away] our friends; we may understand the laws by which all this is done, but this affords no consolation [comfort]. It is only when we perceive [become aware of] an 'intelligent Being' presiding over these events, and see that they are the result of plan and intention on his part, that we can find comfort in trial. What satisfaction is it for me to understand the law by which fire burns when my property is swept away; or to know 'how' disease acts on the human frame when my child dies; or how the plague produces its effects on the body when friend after friend is laid in the grave? This is 'philosophy;' and this is the consolation which this world furnishes. I want some higher consolation than that which results from the knowledge of unconscious laws. I want to have the assurance that it is the result of intelligent design, and that this design is connected with a benevolent [well-meaning and kind] end - and that I find only in religion.
"(6) We see the 'power' of religion in sustaining in the time of trial. How calm and submissive was this holy man [referring to Job]! How peaceful and resigned [he was]! Nothing else but piety could have done this. Philosophy blunts [weakens] the feelings, paralyses the sensibilities, and chills the soul; but it does not give consolation. It is only confidence in God; a feeling that he is right; and a profound [intense] and holy acquiescence [acceptance] in his will, that can produce support in trials like these. This we may have as well so Job; and this is indispensable in a world so full of calamity and sorrow as this is."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/job-1.html, "Verse 22")
MAY 3
The Value of Wisdom
Proverbs 3:13-14: "Happy [blessed] is the man [or woman or child] that findeth [finds] wisdom [by reading and studying the Bible and by asking God for it through prayer], and [happy is] the man [or woman or child] that getteth [gets] understanding. For the merchandise of it [wisdom] is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof [i.e., of wisdom] [is better] than [the gain of] fine gold."
Proverbs 3:15-16: "She [God's wisdom, personified, or acting like a person] is more precious [valuable] than rubies: and all the things thou canst [you can] desire are not to be compared unto her. Length of days [long life] is in her [wisdom's] right hand; and in her left hand [are] riches and honour."
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Salem Bible Church has good commentaries on these verses. Verses 13-15 are in one commentary, and verse 16 is combined with the commentary on verses 17-20. If you want to read one or both of the commentaries, here are the links:-- Verses 13-15: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-3-index/proverbs-3_13-15/
-- Verses 16-20: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-3-index/proverbs-3_16-20/
MAY 1-2
Psalm 145:8: "The LORD [God] is gracious [kind, good, friendly], and full of compassion [sympathy and concern for people who are suffering and/or experiencing misfortune]; [he is also] slow to anger [not easily angered], and of great mercy [unwilling to cause pain, not cruel, willing to forgive]."
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In his commentary, Matthew Henry summarizes the above verse as follows:"The Lord is gracious to those that serve him; he is full of compassion to those that need him, slow to anger to those that have offended him, and of great mercy to all that seek him …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/psalms/145-8.html, "Henry's Complete Commentary on the Bible," "Psalms 145:8")
