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"
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Previous Month
July 2023
JULY 28-31
His Worried Parents Wonder: Where Is Jesus?
While returning home after attending a Passover feast one year, Mary and Joseph discover that young Jesus is missing. Consequently, they frantically retrace their steps (go back to where they came from) and find him in the temple in Jerusalem.
Luke 2:41-42: "Now his parents [Jesus' human parents, Mary and Joseph] went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover [a time of celebration to commemorate (remember) the Jewish Passover]. And when he [Jesus] was twelve years old, they [Jesus and his parents] went up to Jerusalem after [according to] the custom of the feast."
Luke 2:43,44-45: "And when they had fulfilled the days [of the Passover; or after they had been at the feast for seven or eight days], as they returned [home], the child Jesus tarried [remained] behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his [Jesus'] mother [Mary] knew not of it [did not know what Jesus had done]. But they, supposing him [Jesus] to have been in the company [of others, or assuming that he was somewhere in their large group of travelers], went a day's journey; and they [Joseph and Mary] sought [looked for] him [Jesus] among their kinsfolk [relatives] and acquaintance [neighbors and friends]. And when they found him not [or 'when they did not find Jesus'], they turned back again [went back, returned] to Jerusalem, seeking [searching for] him."
Luke 2:46-47: "And it came to pass, that after three days they [Joseph and Mary] found him [Jesus] in the ['court' of the] temple, sitting in the midst of [in the middle of, or among] the doctors [religious teachers, rabbis], both hearing [listening to] them, and asking them questions. And all that [or 'all the people who'] heard him [Jesus] were astonished at his understanding [of the law and the scriptures] and [his] answers [to the doctors' questions]."
Luke 2:48,49-50: "And when they [Joseph and Mary] saw him [Jesus], they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us [or 'why have you frightened us and caused us to worry']? behold, thy [your] [human] father [Joseph] and I have sought thee [searched for you] sorrowing [or with great sadness, anxiety, and concern]. And he [Jesus] said unto them [his parents], How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not [did you not know] that I must be about my Father's [God's] business? [Jesus had an overwhelming desire to please his heavenly Father (and he did that by always obeying and serving him) because he loved his Father more than anything or anyone else in the world.] And they [Joseph and Mary] understood not [or 'did not understand'] the saying [the things] which he spake [spoke, said] unto them."
Luke 2:51: "And he [Jesus] went down [from Jerusalem] with them [Joseph and Mary], and came to Nazareth [where they lived], and was subject unto [was respectful and obedient to] them [and became a carpenter, like his earthly father, Joseph]: but his mother [Mary] kept all these sayings in her heart [or mind, which means that she remembered them].
Luke 2:52: "And [as he grew up on earth,] Jesus increased in wisdom and stature [height, maturity], and in favour with God and man [mankind, people] [see note below*]."
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Concerning Luke 2:52 above, which refers to Jesus' human nature, James Burton Coffman wrote:
"The fourfold development of [Jesus] Christ: mentally, physically, socially, and spiritually is here affirmed [confirmed as fact], exactly the type of growth and development that is inherent in [or part of] the very fact of the incarnation [i.e., when God's Son became a human being--see note below**]. He [Jesus Christ--God the Son] who 'emptied himself' and became a man found it needful to pass through the helplessness of infancy, the ignorance of babyhood, and the incompetence of adolescence just like all men [human beings]. The true humanity [human nature] of our Lord [Jesus] is thus brilliantly presented by Luke, no less than his true deity [divine (godly) nature]. That this is the greatest mystery of all ages is a fact; but that has not prevented the full acceptance of it by the faithful [people--in this case, Christians] of all ages."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/luke/2-52.html, "Coffman's Commentaries on the Bible")
JULY 26-27
The Bible is Very Important to God
In prayer, King David told God why he wanted to worship and praise him:
Psalm 138:1: "I will praise thee [you, Almighty God,] with my whole heart: before the gods [of this world, including idols, and people who act like gods,] will I sing praise unto thee."
Psalm 138:2: "I will worship [bow down] toward thy [your] holy temple [referring to the tabernacle (a large, portable tent that the Israelites used for worship services while wandering in the desert during Old Testament times); it contained the Ark of the Covenant--see note below*], and [I will] praise thy name for thy lovingkindness [goodness, kindness, and love] and for thy truth [truthfulness, and faithfulness in keeping your promises]: for [because] thou hast [you have] magnified thy word above all thy name [in other words, King David is saying that God has put greater importance on his written word (the Bible--that is, on what God says and has said) than on his reputation']."
"… God has made himself known to us in many ways in creation and providence [ongoing guidance and care], but most clearly by his word [as recorded in the Bible]. The judgments of his mouth [referring to things that God has said] are magnified even above those of his hand [referring to things he has created], and greater things are done by them. The wonders of grace exceed the wonders of nature; and what is discovered of God by revelation [or by being revealed by God] is much greater than what is discovered by reason [human intelligence] …"
(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/psalms/138.html, "Verses 1-5")
-- "What was the tabernacle of Moses?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/tabernacle-of-Moses.html)
-- "What is the Ark of the Covenant?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/ark-of-the-covenant.html)
JULY 25
The Second Coming of Jesus Christ
Some Jewish Christians were suffering due to unbelieving and ungodly rich people who were abusing their power and position (see James 5:1-6), so the apostle James sent those Christians a letter containing these encouraging words, which also apply to us:
James 5:7: "Be patient therefore, brethren [fellow Christians] [regarding your suffering and oppression], unto [until] the coming of the Lord [Jesus Christ--see Note 1 below]. Behold, the husbandman [farmer] waiteth [waits] for the precious fruit of the earth [in this case, his crops] [to ripen], and hath [has] long [or much] patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain [see Note 2 below]."
James 5:8: "[Like the farmer who is waiting for his crops to ripen,] Be ye also patient [or 'you should also be patient']; stablish [establish, strengthen] your hearts [i.e., don't be discouraged]: for the coming of the Lord [Jesus Christ] [back to earth] draweth nigh [draws near]."
Bible commentators have differing opinions about the meaning of the phrase the coming of the Lord in today's verse. Here's a good explanation from one of those commentaries:
"… Two different meanings have been attached to the phrase 'coming of the Lord.' Some [people] understand by it [to mean] the coming of [Jesus] Christ in spirit to destroy Jerusalem, when the Romans were employed as the instruments of His vengeance upon the unbelieving Jews, and to which reference is made in the previous verses [i.e., James 5:1-2,3,4,5-6]. Others, with greater probability, understand by it [to mean] His [Jesus'] coming in person to judge the world, or what is usually termed the second advent [or 'second coming of Christ']. How far the sacred writers [i.e., the people who, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, wrote the Bible; see 2 Timothy 3:16 and Note 3 below] distinguished between the destruction of Jerusalem and the future judgment--the type and the antitype--we have no means of ascertaining [determining, knowing for sure] …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/scn/james-5.html, "Verse 7 )
According to most Bible commentaries, the early rain occurs in autumn (October/November) in Israel and the surrounding areas, and the latter [later] rain occurs in the spring (March/April), which is when the people normally plant and harvest their crops. Rain is rare during the summer months.
According to 2 Timothy 3:16, "All scripture is given [written] by inspiration of God …" How this was done is explained in the GotQuestions.org article entitled "Who wrote the Bible?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/who-wrote-the-Bible.html.
JULY 20-24
Jesus Heals the Man With the Palsy (i.e., the man who was paralyzed)
Luke 5:17: "And it came to pass on a certain day, as he [Jesus] was teaching [in a house, probably in Capernaum], that there were Pharisees [members of a Jewish sect, distinguished by strict observance of traditional and written law] and doctors of the law [i.e., scribes, religious teachers] sitting by [him], which were come out of every town of Galilee, and Judaea, and Jerusalem: and the power of the Lord [God] was present [in the human Jesus] to heal them."
Luke 5:18,19: "And, behold, [four] men brought in a bed [probably something like a thin mattress or heavy blanket that could be rolled up and carried, like a sleeping bag] [upon which] a man which was taken with a palsy [or 'a paralyzed man'] [was lying]: and they sought means [looked for a way] to bring [carry] him in, and to lay him [the paralyzed man] [or 'to set him down'] before him [Jesus]. And when they could not find by what way they might bring him [the paralyzed man] in because of the multitude [crowd], they went upon the housetop [or 'up on the roof'], and let him down through the tiling with his couch [bed] into the midst [middle] [of the house--see note below*] before [in front of] Jesus."
Luke 5:20-21 "And when he [Jesus] saw their faith [referring to the faith of the paralyzed person and his friends], he said unto him [the paralyzed person], Man, thy [your] sins are forgiven thee [you]. And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason [in their hearts (minds)], saying [to themselves], Who is this [person--Jesus] which speaketh [who speaks] blasphemies [things that insult God, as claiming that a human being can do what only God can do]? Who can forgive sins, but God alone?"
Luke 5:22-23: "But when Jesus perceived [read] their thoughts [or knew what the scribes and Pharisees were thinking], he answering said unto them, What reason ye in your hearts [or 'What are you thinking or wondering']? Whether [it] is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Rise up [stand] and walk?"
Luke 5:24,25: "But [so] that ye may know that [I, Jesus, who am not only] the Son of man [but also the Son of God] hath [have] power upon earth to forgive sins, (he [Jesus] said unto the [man who was] sick of the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise [get up], and take up thy couch [bed], and go into thine [your] house. And immediately he [the paralyzed man] rose up [stood up] before them [the scribes and Pharisees and everyone else in the crowd], and took up that [thing] whereon [on which] he lay [i.e., his bed], and departed [went] to his own house, glorifying [praising] God."
Luke 5:26: "And they [the people in the crowd] were all amazed, and they glorified [praised] God, and were filled with fear, saying, We have seen strange [unexpected, incredible, wonderful] things to day."
"Lying on a bed - This was probably a mattress, or perhaps a mere blanket spread to lie on, so as to be easily borne [carried]. Being light [lightweight, referring to the 'bed'], Jesus might with propriety [or 'correctly'] command him to take it up and walk, Matthew 9:6.
"Mark [the apostle] says 'they uncovered the roof,' Mark 2:4. Luke says 'they went upon the housetop, and let him down through the tiling,' Luke 5:19. To us it would appear that much injury must have been done to the house where Jesus was, and that they must be much incommoded [inconvenienced, distressed] by the removal of tiles and rafters, etc. An acquaintance, however, with [or knowledge of] the mode [shape, structure] of building in the East removes every difficulty of this nature. Houses in Eastern countries [i.e., countries of Asia and the Middle East] are commonly square in their form, and of a single story. On approaching them from the street a single door is seen in the center, and usually, directly above it [the door], a single latticed window [i.e., a window made with many small pieces of glass shaped like diamonds]. This destitution [lack] of doors and lights from the streets, though it gives their dwellings [houses] a sombre [dark, gloomy] appearance, is yet adapted to the habits of retirement and secrecy among the people of the East, where they are desirous of keeping their 'females' from observation … On entering the only door in front, the first room is a small square room, surrounded with benches, called the 'porch.' In this room the master of the family commonly transacts business, and on private occasions receives visits. Passing through the porch, you enter a large square room directly in the center of the building, called the court. Luke says that the 'paralytic' was let down 'into the midst;' not in the midst of the 'people,' but of the 'building' - the 'middle place' of the house. This 'court' is paved commonly with marble; and, if possible, a fountain of water is formed in the center, to give it beauty, and to diffuse [spread out] a grateful [appreciated] coolness. This room is surrounded by a gallery or covered walk on every side. From that covered walk doors open into the other apartments [rooms] of the house.
"This center room, or court, is commonly uncovered or open above. In wet weather, however, and in times of great heat of the sun, it is covered with an awning or canvas, stretched on cords and capable of being easily removed or rolled up. This is what Mark means when he says 'they uncovered the roof.' They 'rolled up' or removed this awning.
"From the court to the roof the ascent [climb to the top] is by flights of stairs, either in the covered walk or gallery or in the porch. The roof is nearly flat. It is made of earth [soil, dirt]; or, in houses of the rich, is a firmly; constructed flooring, made of coals, chalk, gypsum [a mineral used to make cement or plaster], and ashes, made hard by repeated blows [or by being pounded repeatedly]. On those roofs spears of grass. wheat, or barley sometimes spring up; but these are soon withered [shriveled] by the sun, Psalm 129:6-8. The roof is a favourite [favorite] place for walking, for repose [resting, sleeping] in the cool [part] of the day, for conversation, and for devotion … On such a roof Rahab [a prostitute in the city of Jericho] concealed [hid] the spies Joshua 2:6, Samuel talked with Saul 1 Samuel 9:25, David walked at eventide [or in the evening] 2 Samuel 11:2), and Peter went up to pray Acts 10:9. This roof was surrounded with a 'balustrade,' or railing, breast-high, on the sides; but where a house was contiguous to [or touching] another, and of the same height, the railing was lower, so as to walk from one roof to another. In cities where the houses were constructed in this manner, it was possible to walk through a considerable part of the city on the roofs. A breastwork or railing was of course built in the same manner around the 'open space' in the center, to prevent persons from falling into the court below. This railing, or breastwork, is what Luke Luke 5:19 says they let him down through. They removed it, probably, so that the couch could be conveniently let down with cords; and, standing on the roof 'over' the Saviour [Jesus], they let the man down directly before him. The perseverance [persistence] they had manifested [displayed, shown] was the evidence of their faith or confidence in his [Jesus'] power to heal the sick man.
"Be of good cheer: thy sins be forgiven thee - It may seem remarkable, since the man came only to be 'healed,' that Jesus should have first declared his sins forgiven. For this the following reasons may be suggested:
"1. The man might have brought on this disease of the palsy by a long course of vicious indulgence [or immoral behavior]. Conscious of guilt, he may have feared that he was so great a sinner that Christ would not regard him. He [Jesus] therefore assured him [the paralyzed man] that his offences [sins] were pardoned, and that he might lay aside his fears.
"2. Jesus might be willing to show his power to forgive sins. Had he stated it without any miracle, the Jews would not have believed it, and even his disciples might have been staggered [shocked or surprised]. In proof of it [his power to forgive sins], he [Jesus] worked a miracle; and no one, therefore, could doubt that he had the power. The miracle was performed in 'express attestation' [proof] of the assertion [claim] that he had power to forgive sins. As God would not work a miracle to confirm a falsehood [lie] or to deceive [fool] people, the miracle was a solemn [serious, sinceere] confirmation, on the part of God, that Jesus had the power to forgive sins.
"3. The Jews regarded disease as the effect [consequence, result] of sin, John 9:2; James 5:14-15. There is a 'real' connection between sin and suffering, as in the case of gluttony [overeating], intemperate drinking [drunkenness], lewdness [indecency, vulgar sexual behavior], debauchery [crazy partying and wild nights]. Jesus might be willing to direct the minds of the spectators [the people who were watching what was going on] 'to this fact;' and, by pointing them to a manifest [obvious] instance of the effect of sin, to lead them to hate and forsake [abandon] it. Diseases are sometimes the direct judgment of God for sin, 1 Corinthians 5:3-5; 1 Corinthians 11:30; 2 Samuel 24:10-14. This truth, also, Christ might have been desirous of impressing on the people."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/matthew-9.html, "Verse 2")
JULY 19
King David wrote:
Psalm 121:2: "My help cometh [comes] from the LORD [the one true God], which [who] made [created] heaven and earth [i.e., everything in the universe]."
JULY 15-18
The Temptation of Christ:
Matthew 4:1: "Then [immediately after his baptism] was Jesus led up of [by] the [Holy] Spirit into the wilderness [or desert, referring to an uninhabited region in Judea] to be tempted of [by] the devil [who was trying to get him to sin]."
Temptation #1:
Matthew 4:2-3 [Satan tries to get Jesus to sin]: "And when he [Jesus] had fasted [gone without food] [for] forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred [hungry]. And when the tempter [the devil, or Satan] came to him [Jesus], he said, If thou be [if you are] the Son of God, command that these stones be made [into] bread."
Matthew 4:4 [Jesus replies to Satan]: "But he [Jesus] answered [the devil] and said, It is written [in Deuteronomy 8:3--see note below*], Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth [proceeds, comes] out of the mouth of God."
Temptation #2:
Matthew 4:5,6 [Satan tempts Jesus a second time]: "Then the devil taketh [took] him [Jesus] up into [or brought, led, or accompanied him to] the holy city [Jerusalem], and setteth [set] him on a pinnacle [or spire--the highest point] of the temple, And saith [said] unto him [Jesus], If thou be [if you are] the Son of God, cast thyself down [throw yourself down, or jump]: for it is written [in Psalm 91:11-12--see note below*], He [God] shall give his angels charge concerning thee [meaning 'God's angels will protect you']: and in their hands they shall bear thee [hold you] up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone [or 'so you won't hit your foot on the stones (or be injured) if you fall']."
Matthew 4:7 [Jesus replies to Satan]: "Jesus said unto him [Satan], It is written again [in Deuteronomy 6:16--see note below*], Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God [in this case, meaning that Jesus must not tempt his Father (God) to protect him from the consequences of foolish actions]."
Temptation #3:
Matthew 4:8-9 [Satan tempts Jesus a third time]: "Again, the devil taketh [took] him [Jesus] up into an exceeding [extremely] high mountain, and sheweth [showed] him all [of] the kingdoms of the world [in this case, probably meaning the kingdoms of Palestine, or the land of Canaan, and other kingdoms nearby], and the glory [splendor, magnificence, beauty] of them [referring to everything in those kingdoms]; And [Satan] saith [said] unto him [Jesus], All [of] these things [kingdoms] will I give thee, if thou wilt [if you will] fall down and worship me."
Matthew 4:10 [Jesus replies to Satan]: "Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence [go away], Satan: for it is written [in Deuteronomy 6:13--see note below*], Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve."
Jesus is Victorious!
Matthew 4:11: "Then the devil leaveth [left, went away from] him [Jesus] [for a time], and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him [waited on him, attended to his needs]."
1. Satan is very familiar with God's word, but he's also a master deceiver. By subtly (cleverly) omitting parts of, misquoting, or misapplying scripture, he is able to use it to his advantage.
2. Temptation does not result in sin unless and until we yield (give in) to it.
3. The best way to resist Satan and overcome temptation is by memorizing, believing, and obeying God's word, as recorded in the Bible--and by using those words like a sword (because the Bible is called the "sword of the Spirit" in Ephesians 6:17--see note below*).
"… From this narrative we may learn:
"(a) That no one is so holy as to be free from temptation, for even the Son of God [Jesus] was sorely [greatly] tempted.
"(b) That when God permits a temptation or trial to come upon us, he will, if we look to him, give us grace to resist and overcome it, 1 Corinthians 10:13.
"(c) We see the art [skill] of the tempter [Satan]. His temptations are adapted to times and circumstances. They are plausible [believable]. What could have been mere [more?] plausible than his suggestions to [Jesus] Christ? They were applicable to his circumstances. They had the appearance of much piety [religious devotion]. They were backed by passages of Scripture [or 'verses from the Bible'] [that were] misapplied, but still most artfully presented. Satan never comes boldly and tempts people to sin, telling them that they are committing sin. Such a mode [manner] would defeat his design [plan]. It would put people on their guard. He commences, therefore, [to do it] artfully and plausibly [reasonably], and the real purpose does not appear until he has prepared the mind for it. This is the way with all temptation. No wicked person would at once tempt another to be profane [disrespectful], to be drunk, to be an infidel [unbeliever], or to commit adultery. The principles are first corrupted. The confidence is secured. The affections are won. And then the allurement [attractiveness] is little by little presented, until the victim falls [into sin]. How everyone should be on his guard at the very first appearance of evil, at the first suggestion that may possibly lead to sin!
"(d) One of the best ways of meeting temptation is by applying Scripture. So our Saviour [Jesus] did, and they will always best succeed who best wield [hold and use] the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, Ephesians 6:17."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/matthew-4.html, "Verse 11")
"I know some people, who earn their living in employments [jobs] which are very hazardous [dangerous] to their immortal souls. They are in the midst [middle] of evil, yet they tell me that God can keep them in safety there. I know that he can, but I also know that we have no right to go, voluntarily, where we are surrounded by temptation. If your calling is the wrong one, and you are continually tempted in it, you may not presume upon the goodness of God to keep you [safe], for it is your business to get as far as you can from that which will lead you into sin …"
(Source: https://www.bibliaplus.org/en/commentaries/9/spurgeon-bible-commentary/matthew/4/1-11 "Matthew 4:7")
-- Deuteronomy 8:3: "And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna [food from heaven], which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers [ancestors] know; that he might make thee know that man doth [does] not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live."
-- Psalm 91:11-12: "For he [God] shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone."
-- Deuteronomy 6:16: "Ye shall not tempt the LORD your God, as ye tempted him in Massah."
-- Deuteronomy 6:13: "Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name."
-- Ephesians 6:17: "And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God [i.e., the Bible]:"
JULY 14
The Importance of Prayer
The apostle Paul wrote this in his letter to Timothy regarding prayer, both public and private.
1 Timothy 2:1: "I [Paul] exhort [strongly urge] therefore, that, first of all [most importantly], supplications [requests for protection and help], prayers [for ourselves--everything that we may want or need, such as forgiveness, daily bread (meaning food, shelter, clothing, and other basic necessities), wisdom, guidance, and mercy], intercessions [prayers on behalf of others regarding salvation, assistance, blessings, etc.], and giving of thanks [to God for answered prayer], be made for all men [people];"
1 Timothy 2:2: "[And I (Paul) also urge that prayers be made] For kings [see Note 1 below], and for all [people] that are in authority [or 'for all world leaders]; [so] that we [citizens] may [have good government and religious freedom and, consequently, may] lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty [i.e., regarding our duties to God and mankind]."
1 Timothy 2:3-4: "For this [thing; i.e., praying as outlined above] is good [well pleasing] and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour [in this case, referring to God the Father]; Who will have all men [and women and children] to be saved [or 'whose desire is for everyone to be saved (spiritually), or born again'--see Note 2 below], and to come unto the knowledge of the truth [both of the gospel (as stated by the apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4) and by the Lord Jesus Christ, who (according to the Bible) is 'the way, the truth, and the life' (as stated in John 14:6)]."
In his commentary on Chapter 2, verse 2 (https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/1-timothy-2.html), Albert Barnes explained the phrase For kings (i.e., rulers, leaders, etc.) as follows:
"… The meaning here [in 1 Timothy 2:2] is, that while all people should be the subjects of prayer, those should be particularly remembered before the throne of grace [or 'throne of God'] who are in authority. The reason is, that so much depends on their character and plans; that the security of life, liberty, and property, depends so much on them. God has power to influence their hearts, and to incline them to [or make them willing to do] what is just and equal [or morally right and fair]; and hence [consequently] we should pray that a divine [godly] influence may descend [come down from heaven] upon them. The salvation of a king is of itself of no more importance than that of a peasant [farmer, laborer, etc.] or a slave; but the welfare of thousands [of people] may depend on him [the king], and hence he should be made the special subject of prayer."
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Adam Clarke, another Bible commentator, added:
"… Good rulers have power to do much good; we pray that their authority may be ever preserved and well directed. Bad rulers have power to do much evil; we pray that they may be prevented from thus using their power. So that, whether the rulers be good or bad, prayer for them is the positive duty of all Christians …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/1-timothy/2-2.html, "Adam Clarke Commentary")
Also in his commentary on Chapter 2, regarding the phrase Who will have all men to be saved in verse 4 (https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/1-timothy-2.html), Albert Barnes wrote:
"This verse [1 Timothy 2:4] proves: …
"(3) That people are to blame if they are not saved.
"If God did not wish their salvation, and if he had made no provision for it, they could not be to blame if they rejected the gospel. If God wishes it, and has made provision for it, and they are not saved, the sin must be their own - and it is a great sin, for there is no greater crime which a man can commit than to destroy his own soul, and to make himself the eternal enemy of his Maker [or creator; i.e., Almighty God]."
JULY 12-13
How Christians Should Respond to Persecution
Most followers of Jesus can expect to be treated like he was treated. This is what Jesus told his disciples (and all Christians) about persecution and judgment day:
Matthew 10:24: "The disciple [student] is not above [or greater than] his [or her] master [teacher], nor [is] the servant above his [or her] lord [master, ruler]."
Matthew 10:25: "It is enough for the disciple [in this case, a born-again Christian] that he [or she] be as [like] his [or her] master [Jesus], and [it is enough for] the servant [referring, again, to a born-again Christian] [that he (or she) be] as [like] his [or her] lord [Jesus]. If they [i.e., unsaved people in general, or those who have not been 'born again'] have called the master of the house [in this case, Jesus] Beelzebub [which literally meant 'the god of flies' and referred to an Ekronite idol, but it also meant 'the god of filth' and consequently was a name commonly given by the Jews to the 'prince of devils,' or Satan], how much more shall they [the unsaved people] call them of his [Jesus'] household [i.e., Christians] [names]?"
Matthew 10:26: "Fear them not therefore [don't fear people who persecute you (see note below*) or call you names]: for there is nothing covered [there are no secrets], that shall not [eventually] be revealed; and [there is nothing] hid [hidden], that shall not be known [someday--if not during our lifetimes here on earth, then certainly in heaven on judgment day--see note below**]."
"'They will misrepresent you, slander [tell lies about] you, and speak evil of you; but if your good name be covered up now, it shall be revealed one of these days, perhaps in this life; but if not in this life, certainly at the day of judgment, when the secrets of all hearts shall be made known..' …"
(Source: https://truthaccordingtoscripture.com/commentaries/spe/matthew-10.php, "Verses 24-42")
JULY 8-11
An Altar Dedicated to "The Unknown God"
When the apostle Paul noticed that the Greeks had an altar dedicated to "The Unknown God," he told them whom they were really worshiping.
Acts 17:22: "Then Paul stood in the midst [middle] of Mars' hill [where the highest court in Greece for civil, criminal, and religious matters was located] [i.e., he was forced to appear before the court that was held there--see note below*], and said, Ye [you] men of Athens, I perceive [understand, have come to realize] that in all things ye are too superstitious [in this case, meaning very pious or devout, or more religious than most people]."
Acts 17:23: "For as I passed by [through] [your city], and beheld [saw, observed] your devotions [referring to the places and things that were involved in their worship activities--altars, statues, etc.], I found an altar with this inscription [or 'containing these words'], TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly [unknowingly (without knowledge, instruction, or information)] worship [i.e., the person you worship without knowing his name], him [the one true God--see note below**] declare I unto you [or 'I reveal (make known) to you']."
Acts 17:24-25: "[Almighty] God that made [or 'who created'] the world and all things therein [in it], seeing that he is [the] Lord [ruler] of heaven and earth, dwelleth not [does not dwell or live] in temples made with hands; Neither is [he] worshipped with [served by] men's hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth [gives] to all [people, or 'to everyone'] life, and breath, and all things [i.e., everything that is needed to sustain (support, maintain) life];"
Acts 17:26,27: "And [God] hath [has] made of one blood [or 'from one bloodline (Adam's)'] all nations of men [the whole human race] for to dwell [live] on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds [limits and boundaries] of their habitation [or 'where they should live'] [in other words, God decided when and where each country would be settled]; [so] That they [the people] should seek the Lord, if haply [perhaps] they might feel after him [or 'search for him diligently or earnestly (with purpose)'], and find him [i.e., proof of his existence], though he be not far [away] from every one of us:"
Acts 17:28,29: "For in [by] him [God] we live, and move, and have our being [i.e., God is the source of our existence]; as certain also [or 'as some'] of your own [Greek] poets have said, For we are also his offspring [we were made in God's image]. Forasmuch then [assuming that what the poets have said is true] as [since] we are the offspring [children] of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead [the one true God, consisting of three persons--Father, Son, and Holy Spirit] is like unto [represented by] [idols (images or statues of gods) made of] gold, or silver, or stone, graven [carved or sculptured (i.e., formed or shaped by cutting with a chisel)] by art and man's device [referring to artists' thinking or thoughts]."
Acts 17:30,31: "And the times of this ignorance [lack of knowledge] God winked at [overlooked, did not punish]; but now [he] commandeth [commands] all men [and women and children] every where to repent [which means to change their minds and believe the gospel]: Because he hath appointed [determined, decided on] a day [in the future], in the which he will judge the world [all people] in righteousness [according to the strict rules of justice] by that man [Jesus Christ] whom he [God] hath ordained [appointed as Judge]; whereof he [God] hath given assurance [provided evidence or proof] unto all men [all people] [that Jesus is, and is qualified to be, the Judge], in that [because] he [God] hath raised him [Jesus] from the dead."
JULY 7
The Importance of Forgiveness
In a letter to the Corinthian church, while discussing the discipline of one of its members, the apostle Paul wrote:
2 Corinthians 2:10: "To whom ye [you--the church leaders and members] forgive any thing, I [Paul] forgive [that person] also: for if I forgave any thing [probably, in this case, referring to the sin of the church member who was being disciplined for having an incestuous relationship (or having sex) with his stepmother], to whom I [Paul] forgave it [that sin], for your sakes forgave I it [I forgave it] in the person [or 'in the sight,' or 'as a representative'] of [Jesus] Christ;"
2 Corinthians 2:11: "[We must be able to forgive others] Lest Satan should get an [or 'so the devil won't be able to take'] advantage of us: for we [Christians] are not ignorant [unaware] of his [Satan's] devices [evil intentions, plans, schemes] [which are meant to destroy us and/or our churches]."
JULY 6
Jesus Warns Peter About Temptation and Helps to Strengthen His Faith
Luke 22:31: "And the Lord [Jesus Christ] said [to Simon Peter (one of the apostles) during the Lord's supper], Simon, Simon, behold [look, see], Satan [the devil] hath [has] desired [wanted] to have you [and the other apostles--and all born-again Christians, too] [be under his control], [so] that he may sift you as wheat [by placing trials and temptations before you to test your faith]:"
Luke 22:32: "But I [Jesus] have prayed for thee [you, Peter], that thy [your] faith fail not [i.e., Jesus had prayed that Peter wouldn't completely lose, or abandon, his faith--see note below*]: and when thou [you, Peter] art [are] converted [in this case, referring to the time in the near future when Peter would 'turn back from' (or 'repent of') his sin of denying that he knew Jesus, which he did three times before Jesus was taken to the cross to be crucified], strengthen thy brethren [your fellow Christians] [spiritually, which he could do by warning them (from experience) about the dangers of temptation and sin and by encouraging them in their faith]."
"I. That one design of permitting Christians to fall into sin is to show their own weakness and dependence on God; and,
"II.That they who have been overtaken in this manner [i.e., like Peter was] should make use of their experience to warn and preserve others from [following] the same path."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/luke-22.html, "Verse 32")
"That thy faith fail not - The word 'faith,' here, seems to be used in the sense of religion, or attachment to Christ, and the words 'fail not' mean 'utterly fail' or fail altogether - that is, apostatize [i.e., forsake or abandon one's belief, faith, or allegiance]. It is true that the 'courage' of Peter failed; it is true that he had not [did not have] that immediate confidence in Jesus and reliance on him which he had before had ['beforehand'(?), or'before']; but the prayer of Jesus was that he [Peter] might not altogether apostatize from the faith. God heard Jesus 'always' John 11:42; it follows, therefore, that every prayer which he [Jesus] ever offered was answered; and it follows, as he asked here for a specific thing, that that thing was granted; and as he prayed that Peter's faith might not utterly fail, so it follows that there was no time in which Peter was not really a pious [religious] man. Far as he wandered, and grievously [seriously] as he sinned, yet he well knew that Jesus was the Messiah. He 'did know' [Jesus] the man; and though his fears overcame him and led him to aggravated sin, yet the prayer of Christ was prevalent [overpowering], and he was brought to true repentance."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/luke-22.html, "Verse 32")
JULY 4-5
This was part of King David's lengthy conversation with God in prayer:
Psalm 119:45: "And I will walk at liberty [or 'in freedom']: for I seek [try] [to obey] thy [your, referring to God's] precepts [rules or guidelines intended to regulate behavior and thoughts]."
JULY 1-3
The Apostle John's Vision of Judgment Day
Judgment day is also called the "Great White Throne Judgment" (see Note 1 below).
Revelation 20:11: "And I [John] saw a great white throne [in heaven], and [I also saw] him that sat on it [the throne, referring to the Lord Jesus Christ, who is the Son of God, or God the Son], from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away [vanished, disappeared from view]; and there was found no place for them [the earth and heaven]."
Revelation 20:12: "And I [John] saw the dead [people--those who had been resurrected, or brought back to life], [both] small and great [little and big, young and old, good and bad, rich and poor, etc.], stand before God [the Son--Jesus]; and the books [containing the records of human deeds and sins] were opened: and another book was opened, which is [called] the book of life [and which contained the names of those who had been born again (saved) and were allowed to enter into heaven]: and the dead [people] were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works [i.e., what they thought, said, and did during their lifetime on earth]."
Revelation 20:13: "And the sea [and oceans and other large bodies of water] gave up the dead [people] which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead [people] which were in them [referring to bodies that were in graves, and souls that were in hell]: and they [all of those dead people] were judged every man [and woman and child] according to their works."
Revelation 20:14: "And death and hell [personified, or represented as people] were cast [thrown] into the lake of fire [see Note 2 below]. This is the second death."
Revelation 20:15: "And whosoever [whoever, meaning everyone whose name] was not found written in the book of life [see Note 3 below] was cast [thrown] into the lake of fire."
John's vision is explained in detail in the article entitled "What is the Great White Throne Judgment?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/great-white-throne-judgment.html.
Have you ever seen a lake of fire? There are many pictures and videos of "lava lakes" on the Internet. In 2014, I found a very graphic video of a volcano filled with vigorously boiling lava that looked just like a lake of fire. I posted the link to that video, along with some background information, in the "Salvation" section of my Christian forum under the heading "Lake of Fire." The article is entitled "WARNING! You must be saved God's way or you'll end up in the lake of fire!"
That article can be found here: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?f=91&t=58, but for your convenience, I have copied it below:
"On September 8, 2014, 'Nightline' had a segment about a man (Sam Cossman) who rappelled into an active volcano (Marum Crater in the South Pacific) while wearing a GoPro camera and stood next to 'a boiling pit of red-hot lava,' as stated by Michael Strahan on 'Good Morning America.' It's the perfect picture of what the Bible calls the 'lake of fire.' Since then, almost four million people have viewed the video ('Volcano Diver') on YouTube. Click on the following link if you want to watch it too: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BAdFvTo9874. The lava part starts at around the 1:17-minute mark.
"This is what the Bible says about the lake of fire:
"-- Revelation 20:10-15: 'And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.
"Here's what the Bible says about soul winning:
"-- Jude 1:22-23: 'And of some have compassion, making a difference: And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.'
"Many of the people who commented on the video made fun of hell. Here's what the Bible says about that:
"-- Romans 3:18: 'There is no fear of God before their eyes.'
"If you sincerely want to go to heaven instead of hell, you'll find out what to do by going to my website and reading one or more of the tracts that are listed on the 'Printable Gospel Tracts' page. Here's the link: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.
You can only go to heaven if your name is written in the book of life, so I'm wondering:
-- Is your name written in the book of life? If not, it can be! If you believe that Jesus Christ (God's Son) died on the cross to pay for your sins and that he was buried and rose again, all you need to do is sincerely ask him, through prayer (either silently or out loud), to come into your heart and save you so you can go to heaven when you die.
(If needed, detailed explanations of the plan of salvation, along with many Bible verses, can be found in the "Printable Gospel Tracts" section of my website. Here's a direct link to that page: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.)
His Worried Parents Wonder: Where Is Jesus?
While returning home after attending a Passover feast one year, Mary and Joseph discover that young Jesus is missing. Consequently, they frantically retrace their steps (go back to where they came from) and find him in the temple in Jerusalem.
Luke 2:41-42: "Now his parents [Jesus' human parents, Mary and Joseph] went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover [a time of celebration to commemorate (remember) the Jewish Passover]. And when he [Jesus] was twelve years old, they [Jesus and his parents] went up to Jerusalem after [according to] the custom of the feast."
Luke 2:43,44-45: "And when they had fulfilled the days [of the Passover; or after they had been at the feast for seven or eight days], as they returned [home], the child Jesus tarried [remained] behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his [Jesus'] mother [Mary] knew not of it [did not know what Jesus had done]. But they, supposing him [Jesus] to have been in the company [of others, or assuming that he was somewhere in their large group of travelers], went a day's journey; and they [Joseph and Mary] sought [looked for] him [Jesus] among their kinsfolk [relatives] and acquaintance [neighbors and friends]. And when they found him not [or 'when they did not find Jesus'], they turned back again [went back, returned] to Jerusalem, seeking [searching for] him."
Luke 2:46-47: "And it came to pass, that after three days they [Joseph and Mary] found him [Jesus] in the ['court' of the] temple, sitting in the midst of [in the middle of, or among] the doctors [religious teachers, rabbis], both hearing [listening to] them, and asking them questions. And all that [or 'all the people who'] heard him [Jesus] were astonished at his understanding [of the law and the scriptures] and [his] answers [to the doctors' questions]."
Luke 2:48,49-50: "And when they [Joseph and Mary] saw him [Jesus], they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us [or 'why have you frightened us and caused us to worry']? behold, thy [your] [human] father [Joseph] and I have sought thee [searched for you] sorrowing [or with great sadness, anxiety, and concern]. And he [Jesus] said unto them [his parents], How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not [did you not know] that I must be about my Father's [God's] business? [Jesus had an overwhelming desire to please his heavenly Father (and he did that by always obeying and serving him) because he loved his Father more than anything or anyone else in the world.] And they [Joseph and Mary] understood not [or 'did not understand'] the saying [the things] which he spake [spoke, said] unto them."
Luke 2:51: "And he [Jesus] went down [from Jerusalem] with them [Joseph and Mary], and came to Nazareth [where they lived], and was subject unto [was respectful and obedient to] them [and became a carpenter, like his earthly father, Joseph]: but his mother [Mary] kept all these sayings in her heart [or mind, which means that she remembered them].
Luke 2:52: "And [as he grew up on earth,] Jesus increased in wisdom and stature [height, maturity], and in favour with God and man [mankind, people] [see note below*]."
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*According to the Bible, Jesus has two natures (human and divine), which means that he is fully man and fully God. This is explained in an article by Matt Perman entitled "How Can Jesus Be God and Man?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/how-can-jesus-be-god-and-man#modal-417-nr93t94s.____________________
Concerning Luke 2:52 above, which refers to Jesus' human nature, James Burton Coffman wrote:
"The fourfold development of [Jesus] Christ: mentally, physically, socially, and spiritually is here affirmed [confirmed as fact], exactly the type of growth and development that is inherent in [or part of] the very fact of the incarnation [i.e., when God's Son became a human being--see note below**]. He [Jesus Christ--God the Son] who 'emptied himself' and became a man found it needful to pass through the helplessness of infancy, the ignorance of babyhood, and the incompetence of adolescence just like all men [human beings]. The true humanity [human nature] of our Lord [Jesus] is thus brilliantly presented by Luke, no less than his true deity [divine (godly) nature]. That this is the greatest mystery of all ages is a fact; but that has not prevented the full acceptance of it by the faithful [people--in this case, Christians] of all ages."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/luke/2-52.html, "Coffman's Commentaries on the Bible")
* * * * *
**Incarnation is explained in the following article: "What is the meaning of the Incarnation of Christ?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/incarnation-of-Christ.html.JULY 26-27
The Bible is Very Important to God
In prayer, King David told God why he wanted to worship and praise him:
Psalm 138:1: "I will praise thee [you, Almighty God,] with my whole heart: before the gods [of this world, including idols, and people who act like gods,] will I sing praise unto thee."
Psalm 138:2: "I will worship [bow down] toward thy [your] holy temple [referring to the tabernacle (a large, portable tent that the Israelites used for worship services while wandering in the desert during Old Testament times); it contained the Ark of the Covenant--see note below*], and [I will] praise thy name for thy lovingkindness [goodness, kindness, and love] and for thy truth [truthfulness, and faithfulness in keeping your promises]: for [because] thou hast [you have] magnified thy word above all thy name [in other words, King David is saying that God has put greater importance on his written word (the Bible--that is, on what God says and has said) than on his reputation']."
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In Psalm 138:2, when David commented that "thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name," he meant that God has made it possible for us to learn more by reading his words, as found in the Bible, than by observing or studying his works (things he has done or created), through science, philosophy, nature, etc.* * * * *
Regarding the phrase thou has magnified thy word above all thy name, this is what Matthew Henry said in his commentary on Chapter 138 of Psalms:"… God has made himself known to us in many ways in creation and providence [ongoing guidance and care], but most clearly by his word [as recorded in the Bible]. The judgments of his mouth [referring to things that God has said] are magnified even above those of his hand [referring to things he has created], and greater things are done by them. The wonders of grace exceed the wonders of nature; and what is discovered of God by revelation [or by being revealed by God] is much greater than what is discovered by reason [human intelligence] …"
(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/psalms/138.html, "Verses 1-5")
* * * * *
*Here are two articles that discuss the tabernacle:-- "What was the tabernacle of Moses?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/tabernacle-of-Moses.html)
-- "What is the Ark of the Covenant?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/ark-of-the-covenant.html)
JULY 25
The Second Coming of Jesus Christ
Some Jewish Christians were suffering due to unbelieving and ungodly rich people who were abusing their power and position (see James 5:1-6), so the apostle James sent those Christians a letter containing these encouraging words, which also apply to us:
James 5:7: "Be patient therefore, brethren [fellow Christians] [regarding your suffering and oppression], unto [until] the coming of the Lord [Jesus Christ--see Note 1 below]. Behold, the husbandman [farmer] waiteth [waits] for the precious fruit of the earth [in this case, his crops] [to ripen], and hath [has] long [or much] patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain [see Note 2 below]."
James 5:8: "[Like the farmer who is waiting for his crops to ripen,] Be ye also patient [or 'you should also be patient']; stablish [establish, strengthen] your hearts [i.e., don't be discouraged]: for the coming of the Lord [Jesus Christ] [back to earth] draweth nigh [draws near]."
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Judgment day is coming soon. It will be a horrible time for unbelievers (unsaved people) but a wonderful time for born-again Christians.* * * * *
NOTE 1:Bible commentators have differing opinions about the meaning of the phrase the coming of the Lord in today's verse. Here's a good explanation from one of those commentaries:
"… Two different meanings have been attached to the phrase 'coming of the Lord.' Some [people] understand by it [to mean] the coming of [Jesus] Christ in spirit to destroy Jerusalem, when the Romans were employed as the instruments of His vengeance upon the unbelieving Jews, and to which reference is made in the previous verses [i.e., James 5:1-2,3,4,5-6]. Others, with greater probability, understand by it [to mean] His [Jesus'] coming in person to judge the world, or what is usually termed the second advent [or 'second coming of Christ']. How far the sacred writers [i.e., the people who, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, wrote the Bible; see 2 Timothy 3:16 and Note 3 below] distinguished between the destruction of Jerusalem and the future judgment--the type and the antitype--we have no means of ascertaining [determining, knowing for sure] …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/scn/james-5.html, "Verse 7 )
* * * * *
NOTE 2:According to most Bible commentaries, the early rain occurs in autumn (October/November) in Israel and the surrounding areas, and the latter [later] rain occurs in the spring (March/April), which is when the people normally plant and harvest their crops. Rain is rare during the summer months.
* * * * *
NOTE 3:According to 2 Timothy 3:16, "All scripture is given [written] by inspiration of God …" How this was done is explained in the GotQuestions.org article entitled "Who wrote the Bible?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/who-wrote-the-Bible.html.
JULY 20-24
Jesus Heals the Man With the Palsy (i.e., the man who was paralyzed)
Luke 5:17: "And it came to pass on a certain day, as he [Jesus] was teaching [in a house, probably in Capernaum], that there were Pharisees [members of a Jewish sect, distinguished by strict observance of traditional and written law] and doctors of the law [i.e., scribes, religious teachers] sitting by [him], which were come out of every town of Galilee, and Judaea, and Jerusalem: and the power of the Lord [God] was present [in the human Jesus] to heal them."
Luke 5:18,19: "And, behold, [four] men brought in a bed [probably something like a thin mattress or heavy blanket that could be rolled up and carried, like a sleeping bag] [upon which] a man which was taken with a palsy [or 'a paralyzed man'] [was lying]: and they sought means [looked for a way] to bring [carry] him in, and to lay him [the paralyzed man] [or 'to set him down'] before him [Jesus]. And when they could not find by what way they might bring him [the paralyzed man] in because of the multitude [crowd], they went upon the housetop [or 'up on the roof'], and let him down through the tiling with his couch [bed] into the midst [middle] [of the house--see note below*] before [in front of] Jesus."
Luke 5:20-21 "And when he [Jesus] saw their faith [referring to the faith of the paralyzed person and his friends], he said unto him [the paralyzed person], Man, thy [your] sins are forgiven thee [you]. And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason [in their hearts (minds)], saying [to themselves], Who is this [person--Jesus] which speaketh [who speaks] blasphemies [things that insult God, as claiming that a human being can do what only God can do]? Who can forgive sins, but God alone?"
Luke 5:22-23: "But when Jesus perceived [read] their thoughts [or knew what the scribes and Pharisees were thinking], he answering said unto them, What reason ye in your hearts [or 'What are you thinking or wondering']? Whether [it] is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Rise up [stand] and walk?"
Luke 5:24,25: "But [so] that ye may know that [I, Jesus, who am not only] the Son of man [but also the Son of God] hath [have] power upon earth to forgive sins, (he [Jesus] said unto the [man who was] sick of the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise [get up], and take up thy couch [bed], and go into thine [your] house. And immediately he [the paralyzed man] rose up [stood up] before them [the scribes and Pharisees and everyone else in the crowd], and took up that [thing] whereon [on which] he lay [i.e., his bed], and departed [went] to his own house, glorifying [praising] God."
Luke 5:26: "And they [the people in the crowd] were all amazed, and they glorified [praised] God, and were filled with fear, saying, We have seen strange [unexpected, incredible, wonderful] things to day."
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*This incident (story) is told in different ways by the apostles Matthew, Mark, and Luke (see Matthew 9:1-8, Mark 2:1-12, and Luke 5:17-26), and Albert Barnes has a detailed explanation of it in his commentary on Matthew 9, especially the part, in verse 2, about lowering the man through the roof and why Jesus forgave his sins. Here's what it says:"Lying on a bed - This was probably a mattress, or perhaps a mere blanket spread to lie on, so as to be easily borne [carried]. Being light [lightweight, referring to the 'bed'], Jesus might with propriety [or 'correctly'] command him to take it up and walk, Matthew 9:6.
"Mark [the apostle] says 'they uncovered the roof,' Mark 2:4. Luke says 'they went upon the housetop, and let him down through the tiling,' Luke 5:19. To us it would appear that much injury must have been done to the house where Jesus was, and that they must be much incommoded [inconvenienced, distressed] by the removal of tiles and rafters, etc. An acquaintance, however, with [or knowledge of] the mode [shape, structure] of building in the East removes every difficulty of this nature. Houses in Eastern countries [i.e., countries of Asia and the Middle East] are commonly square in their form, and of a single story. On approaching them from the street a single door is seen in the center, and usually, directly above it [the door], a single latticed window [i.e., a window made with many small pieces of glass shaped like diamonds]. This destitution [lack] of doors and lights from the streets, though it gives their dwellings [houses] a sombre [dark, gloomy] appearance, is yet adapted to the habits of retirement and secrecy among the people of the East, where they are desirous of keeping their 'females' from observation … On entering the only door in front, the first room is a small square room, surrounded with benches, called the 'porch.' In this room the master of the family commonly transacts business, and on private occasions receives visits. Passing through the porch, you enter a large square room directly in the center of the building, called the court. Luke says that the 'paralytic' was let down 'into the midst;' not in the midst of the 'people,' but of the 'building' - the 'middle place' of the house. This 'court' is paved commonly with marble; and, if possible, a fountain of water is formed in the center, to give it beauty, and to diffuse [spread out] a grateful [appreciated] coolness. This room is surrounded by a gallery or covered walk on every side. From that covered walk doors open into the other apartments [rooms] of the house.
"This center room, or court, is commonly uncovered or open above. In wet weather, however, and in times of great heat of the sun, it is covered with an awning or canvas, stretched on cords and capable of being easily removed or rolled up. This is what Mark means when he says 'they uncovered the roof.' They 'rolled up' or removed this awning.
"From the court to the roof the ascent [climb to the top] is by flights of stairs, either in the covered walk or gallery or in the porch. The roof is nearly flat. It is made of earth [soil, dirt]; or, in houses of the rich, is a firmly; constructed flooring, made of coals, chalk, gypsum [a mineral used to make cement or plaster], and ashes, made hard by repeated blows [or by being pounded repeatedly]. On those roofs spears of grass. wheat, or barley sometimes spring up; but these are soon withered [shriveled] by the sun, Psalm 129:6-8. The roof is a favourite [favorite] place for walking, for repose [resting, sleeping] in the cool [part] of the day, for conversation, and for devotion … On such a roof Rahab [a prostitute in the city of Jericho] concealed [hid] the spies Joshua 2:6, Samuel talked with Saul 1 Samuel 9:25, David walked at eventide [or in the evening] 2 Samuel 11:2), and Peter went up to pray Acts 10:9. This roof was surrounded with a 'balustrade,' or railing, breast-high, on the sides; but where a house was contiguous to [or touching] another, and of the same height, the railing was lower, so as to walk from one roof to another. In cities where the houses were constructed in this manner, it was possible to walk through a considerable part of the city on the roofs. A breastwork or railing was of course built in the same manner around the 'open space' in the center, to prevent persons from falling into the court below. This railing, or breastwork, is what Luke Luke 5:19 says they let him down through. They removed it, probably, so that the couch could be conveniently let down with cords; and, standing on the roof 'over' the Saviour [Jesus], they let the man down directly before him. The perseverance [persistence] they had manifested [displayed, shown] was the evidence of their faith or confidence in his [Jesus'] power to heal the sick man.
"Be of good cheer: thy sins be forgiven thee - It may seem remarkable, since the man came only to be 'healed,' that Jesus should have first declared his sins forgiven. For this the following reasons may be suggested:
"1. The man might have brought on this disease of the palsy by a long course of vicious indulgence [or immoral behavior]. Conscious of guilt, he may have feared that he was so great a sinner that Christ would not regard him. He [Jesus] therefore assured him [the paralyzed man] that his offences [sins] were pardoned, and that he might lay aside his fears.
"2. Jesus might be willing to show his power to forgive sins. Had he stated it without any miracle, the Jews would not have believed it, and even his disciples might have been staggered [shocked or surprised]. In proof of it [his power to forgive sins], he [Jesus] worked a miracle; and no one, therefore, could doubt that he had the power. The miracle was performed in 'express attestation' [proof] of the assertion [claim] that he had power to forgive sins. As God would not work a miracle to confirm a falsehood [lie] or to deceive [fool] people, the miracle was a solemn [serious, sinceere] confirmation, on the part of God, that Jesus had the power to forgive sins.
"3. The Jews regarded disease as the effect [consequence, result] of sin, John 9:2; James 5:14-15. There is a 'real' connection between sin and suffering, as in the case of gluttony [overeating], intemperate drinking [drunkenness], lewdness [indecency, vulgar sexual behavior], debauchery [crazy partying and wild nights]. Jesus might be willing to direct the minds of the spectators [the people who were watching what was going on] 'to this fact;' and, by pointing them to a manifest [obvious] instance of the effect of sin, to lead them to hate and forsake [abandon] it. Diseases are sometimes the direct judgment of God for sin, 1 Corinthians 5:3-5; 1 Corinthians 11:30; 2 Samuel 24:10-14. This truth, also, Christ might have been desirous of impressing on the people."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/matthew-9.html, "Verse 2")
JULY 19
King David wrote:
Psalm 121:2: "My help cometh [comes] from the LORD [the one true God], which [who] made [created] heaven and earth [i.e., everything in the universe]."
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If you're a born-again Christian, King David's helper (Almighty God) is your helper, too.JULY 15-18
The Temptation of Christ:
Matthew 4:1: "Then [immediately after his baptism] was Jesus led up of [by] the [Holy] Spirit into the wilderness [or desert, referring to an uninhabited region in Judea] to be tempted of [by] the devil [who was trying to get him to sin]."
Temptation #1:
Matthew 4:2-3 [Satan tries to get Jesus to sin]: "And when he [Jesus] had fasted [gone without food] [for] forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred [hungry]. And when the tempter [the devil, or Satan] came to him [Jesus], he said, If thou be [if you are] the Son of God, command that these stones be made [into] bread."
Matthew 4:4 [Jesus replies to Satan]: "But he [Jesus] answered [the devil] and said, It is written [in Deuteronomy 8:3--see note below*], Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth [proceeds, comes] out of the mouth of God."
Temptation #2:
Matthew 4:5,6 [Satan tempts Jesus a second time]: "Then the devil taketh [took] him [Jesus] up into [or brought, led, or accompanied him to] the holy city [Jerusalem], and setteth [set] him on a pinnacle [or spire--the highest point] of the temple, And saith [said] unto him [Jesus], If thou be [if you are] the Son of God, cast thyself down [throw yourself down, or jump]: for it is written [in Psalm 91:11-12--see note below*], He [God] shall give his angels charge concerning thee [meaning 'God's angels will protect you']: and in their hands they shall bear thee [hold you] up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone [or 'so you won't hit your foot on the stones (or be injured) if you fall']."
Matthew 4:7 [Jesus replies to Satan]: "Jesus said unto him [Satan], It is written again [in Deuteronomy 6:16--see note below*], Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God [in this case, meaning that Jesus must not tempt his Father (God) to protect him from the consequences of foolish actions]."
Temptation #3:
Matthew 4:8-9 [Satan tempts Jesus a third time]: "Again, the devil taketh [took] him [Jesus] up into an exceeding [extremely] high mountain, and sheweth [showed] him all [of] the kingdoms of the world [in this case, probably meaning the kingdoms of Palestine, or the land of Canaan, and other kingdoms nearby], and the glory [splendor, magnificence, beauty] of them [referring to everything in those kingdoms]; And [Satan] saith [said] unto him [Jesus], All [of] these things [kingdoms] will I give thee, if thou wilt [if you will] fall down and worship me."
Matthew 4:10 [Jesus replies to Satan]: "Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence [go away], Satan: for it is written [in Deuteronomy 6:13--see note below*], Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve."
Jesus is Victorious!
Matthew 4:11: "Then the devil leaveth [left, went away from] him [Jesus] [for a time], and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him [waited on him, attended to his needs]."
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As we can learn from the above verses:1. Satan is very familiar with God's word, but he's also a master deceiver. By subtly (cleverly) omitting parts of, misquoting, or misapplying scripture, he is able to use it to his advantage.
2. Temptation does not result in sin unless and until we yield (give in) to it.
3. The best way to resist Satan and overcome temptation is by memorizing, believing, and obeying God's word, as recorded in the Bible--and by using those words like a sword (because the Bible is called the "sword of the Spirit" in Ephesians 6:17--see note below*).
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GotQuestions.org has an article about the above story. It's entitled "What was the meaning and purpose of Jesus' temptations?" and can be found here: https://www.gotquestions.org/Jesus-temptations.html.* * * * *
In his commentary on the temptation of Jesus, Albert Barnes wrote:"… From this narrative we may learn:
"(a) That no one is so holy as to be free from temptation, for even the Son of God [Jesus] was sorely [greatly] tempted.
"(b) That when God permits a temptation or trial to come upon us, he will, if we look to him, give us grace to resist and overcome it, 1 Corinthians 10:13.
"(c) We see the art [skill] of the tempter [Satan]. His temptations are adapted to times and circumstances. They are plausible [believable]. What could have been mere [more?] plausible than his suggestions to [Jesus] Christ? They were applicable to his circumstances. They had the appearance of much piety [religious devotion]. They were backed by passages of Scripture [or 'verses from the Bible'] [that were] misapplied, but still most artfully presented. Satan never comes boldly and tempts people to sin, telling them that they are committing sin. Such a mode [manner] would defeat his design [plan]. It would put people on their guard. He commences, therefore, [to do it] artfully and plausibly [reasonably], and the real purpose does not appear until he has prepared the mind for it. This is the way with all temptation. No wicked person would at once tempt another to be profane [disrespectful], to be drunk, to be an infidel [unbeliever], or to commit adultery. The principles are first corrupted. The confidence is secured. The affections are won. And then the allurement [attractiveness] is little by little presented, until the victim falls [into sin]. How everyone should be on his guard at the very first appearance of evil, at the first suggestion that may possibly lead to sin!
"(d) One of the best ways of meeting temptation is by applying Scripture. So our Saviour [Jesus] did, and they will always best succeed who best wield [hold and use] the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, Ephesians 6:17."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/matthew-4.html, "Verse 11")
* * * * *
Good advice from Charles Spurgeon:"I know some people, who earn their living in employments [jobs] which are very hazardous [dangerous] to their immortal souls. They are in the midst [middle] of evil, yet they tell me that God can keep them in safety there. I know that he can, but I also know that we have no right to go, voluntarily, where we are surrounded by temptation. If your calling is the wrong one, and you are continually tempted in it, you may not presume upon the goodness of God to keep you [safe], for it is your business to get as far as you can from that which will lead you into sin …"
(Source: https://www.bibliaplus.org/en/commentaries/9/spurgeon-bible-commentary/matthew/4/1-11 "Matthew 4:7")
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*Here are the Bible verses referred to above:-- Deuteronomy 8:3: "And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna [food from heaven], which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers [ancestors] know; that he might make thee know that man doth [does] not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live."
-- Psalm 91:11-12: "For he [God] shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone."
-- Deuteronomy 6:16: "Ye shall not tempt the LORD your God, as ye tempted him in Massah."
-- Deuteronomy 6:13: "Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name."
-- Ephesians 6:17: "And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God [i.e., the Bible]:"
JULY 14
The Importance of Prayer
The apostle Paul wrote this in his letter to Timothy regarding prayer, both public and private.
1 Timothy 2:1: "I [Paul] exhort [strongly urge] therefore, that, first of all [most importantly], supplications [requests for protection and help], prayers [for ourselves--everything that we may want or need, such as forgiveness, daily bread (meaning food, shelter, clothing, and other basic necessities), wisdom, guidance, and mercy], intercessions [prayers on behalf of others regarding salvation, assistance, blessings, etc.], and giving of thanks [to God for answered prayer], be made for all men [people];"
1 Timothy 2:2: "[And I (Paul) also urge that prayers be made] For kings [see Note 1 below], and for all [people] that are in authority [or 'for all world leaders]; [so] that we [citizens] may [have good government and religious freedom and, consequently, may] lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty [i.e., regarding our duties to God and mankind]."
1 Timothy 2:3-4: "For this [thing; i.e., praying as outlined above] is good [well pleasing] and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour [in this case, referring to God the Father]; Who will have all men [and women and children] to be saved [or 'whose desire is for everyone to be saved (spiritually), or born again'--see Note 2 below], and to come unto the knowledge of the truth [both of the gospel (as stated by the apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4) and by the Lord Jesus Christ, who (according to the Bible) is 'the way, the truth, and the life' (as stated in John 14:6)]."
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NOTE 1:In his commentary on Chapter 2, verse 2 (https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/1-timothy-2.html), Albert Barnes explained the phrase For kings (i.e., rulers, leaders, etc.) as follows:
"… The meaning here [in 1 Timothy 2:2] is, that while all people should be the subjects of prayer, those should be particularly remembered before the throne of grace [or 'throne of God'] who are in authority. The reason is, that so much depends on their character and plans; that the security of life, liberty, and property, depends so much on them. God has power to influence their hearts, and to incline them to [or make them willing to do] what is just and equal [or morally right and fair]; and hence [consequently] we should pray that a divine [godly] influence may descend [come down from heaven] upon them. The salvation of a king is of itself of no more importance than that of a peasant [farmer, laborer, etc.] or a slave; but the welfare of thousands [of people] may depend on him [the king], and hence he should be made the special subject of prayer."
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Adam Clarke, another Bible commentator, added:
"… Good rulers have power to do much good; we pray that their authority may be ever preserved and well directed. Bad rulers have power to do much evil; we pray that they may be prevented from thus using their power. So that, whether the rulers be good or bad, prayer for them is the positive duty of all Christians …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/1-timothy/2-2.html, "Adam Clarke Commentary")
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NOTE 2:Also in his commentary on Chapter 2, regarding the phrase Who will have all men to be saved in verse 4 (https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/1-timothy-2.html), Albert Barnes wrote:
"This verse [1 Timothy 2:4] proves: …
"(3) That people are to blame if they are not saved.
"If God did not wish their salvation, and if he had made no provision for it, they could not be to blame if they rejected the gospel. If God wishes it, and has made provision for it, and they are not saved, the sin must be their own - and it is a great sin, for there is no greater crime which a man can commit than to destroy his own soul, and to make himself the eternal enemy of his Maker [or creator; i.e., Almighty God]."
JULY 12-13
How Christians Should Respond to Persecution
Most followers of Jesus can expect to be treated like he was treated. This is what Jesus told his disciples (and all Christians) about persecution and judgment day:
Matthew 10:24: "The disciple [student] is not above [or greater than] his [or her] master [teacher], nor [is] the servant above his [or her] lord [master, ruler]."
Matthew 10:25: "It is enough for the disciple [in this case, a born-again Christian] that he [or she] be as [like] his [or her] master [Jesus], and [it is enough for] the servant [referring, again, to a born-again Christian] [that he (or she) be] as [like] his [or her] lord [Jesus]. If they [i.e., unsaved people in general, or those who have not been 'born again'] have called the master of the house [in this case, Jesus] Beelzebub [which literally meant 'the god of flies' and referred to an Ekronite idol, but it also meant 'the god of filth' and consequently was a name commonly given by the Jews to the 'prince of devils,' or Satan], how much more shall they [the unsaved people] call them of his [Jesus'] household [i.e., Christians] [names]?"
Matthew 10:26: "Fear them not therefore [don't fear people who persecute you (see note below*) or call you names]: for there is nothing covered [there are no secrets], that shall not [eventually] be revealed; and [there is nothing] hid [hidden], that shall not be known [someday--if not during our lifetimes here on earth, then certainly in heaven on judgment day--see note below**]."
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In other words, no matter how hard people may try to destroy your reputation by calling you names, the truth will eventually come out.* * * * *
*Definition of persecute, according to online dictionaries: To treat (someone) cruelly or unfairly, especially because of race or religious or political beliefs.* * * * *
**Here's how Charles Spurgeon paraphrased (used different words to explain) Jesus' statement in Matthew 10:26: "'They will misrepresent you, slander [tell lies about] you, and speak evil of you; but if your good name be covered up now, it shall be revealed one of these days, perhaps in this life; but if not in this life, certainly at the day of judgment, when the secrets of all hearts shall be made known..' …"
(Source: https://truthaccordingtoscripture.com/commentaries/spe/matthew-10.php, "Verses 24-42")
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GotQuestions.org has an article about persecution. It's called "How should a Christian respond to persecution?" and can be found here: https://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-persecution.html.JULY 8-11
An Altar Dedicated to "The Unknown God"
When the apostle Paul noticed that the Greeks had an altar dedicated to "The Unknown God," he told them whom they were really worshiping.
Acts 17:22: "Then Paul stood in the midst [middle] of Mars' hill [where the highest court in Greece for civil, criminal, and religious matters was located] [i.e., he was forced to appear before the court that was held there--see note below*], and said, Ye [you] men of Athens, I perceive [understand, have come to realize] that in all things ye are too superstitious [in this case, meaning very pious or devout, or more religious than most people]."
Acts 17:23: "For as I passed by [through] [your city], and beheld [saw, observed] your devotions [referring to the places and things that were involved in their worship activities--altars, statues, etc.], I found an altar with this inscription [or 'containing these words'], TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly [unknowingly (without knowledge, instruction, or information)] worship [i.e., the person you worship without knowing his name], him [the one true God--see note below**] declare I unto you [or 'I reveal (make known) to you']."
Acts 17:24-25: "[Almighty] God that made [or 'who created'] the world and all things therein [in it], seeing that he is [the] Lord [ruler] of heaven and earth, dwelleth not [does not dwell or live] in temples made with hands; Neither is [he] worshipped with [served by] men's hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth [gives] to all [people, or 'to everyone'] life, and breath, and all things [i.e., everything that is needed to sustain (support, maintain) life];"
Acts 17:26,27: "And [God] hath [has] made of one blood [or 'from one bloodline (Adam's)'] all nations of men [the whole human race] for to dwell [live] on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds [limits and boundaries] of their habitation [or 'where they should live'] [in other words, God decided when and where each country would be settled]; [so] That they [the people] should seek the Lord, if haply [perhaps] they might feel after him [or 'search for him diligently or earnestly (with purpose)'], and find him [i.e., proof of his existence], though he be not far [away] from every one of us:"
Acts 17:28,29: "For in [by] him [God] we live, and move, and have our being [i.e., God is the source of our existence]; as certain also [or 'as some'] of your own [Greek] poets have said, For we are also his offspring [we were made in God's image]. Forasmuch then [assuming that what the poets have said is true] as [since] we are the offspring [children] of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead [the one true God, consisting of three persons--Father, Son, and Holy Spirit] is like unto [represented by] [idols (images or statues of gods) made of] gold, or silver, or stone, graven [carved or sculptured (i.e., formed or shaped by cutting with a chisel)] by art and man's device [referring to artists' thinking or thoughts]."
Acts 17:30,31: "And the times of this ignorance [lack of knowledge] God winked at [overlooked, did not punish]; but now [he] commandeth [commands] all men [and women and children] every where to repent [which means to change their minds and believe the gospel]: Because he hath appointed [determined, decided on] a day [in the future], in the which he will judge the world [all people] in righteousness [according to the strict rules of justice] by that man [Jesus Christ] whom he [God] hath ordained [appointed as Judge]; whereof he [God] hath given assurance [provided evidence or proof] unto all men [all people] [that Jesus is, and is qualified to be, the Judge], in that [because] he [God] hath raised him [Jesus] from the dead."
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*For more information about Mars Hill and what happened there, I recommend the GotQuestions.org article entitled "What happened at Mars Hill in the Bible?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/Mars-Hill.html.* * * * *
**GotQuestions.org answers the question "Who is the one true God?" in their article by the same name. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/one-true-God.html.JULY 7
The Importance of Forgiveness
In a letter to the Corinthian church, while discussing the discipline of one of its members, the apostle Paul wrote:
2 Corinthians 2:10: "To whom ye [you--the church leaders and members] forgive any thing, I [Paul] forgive [that person] also: for if I forgave any thing [probably, in this case, referring to the sin of the church member who was being disciplined for having an incestuous relationship (or having sex) with his stepmother], to whom I [Paul] forgave it [that sin], for your sakes forgave I it [I forgave it] in the person [or 'in the sight,' or 'as a representative'] of [Jesus] Christ;"
2 Corinthians 2:11: "[We must be able to forgive others] Lest Satan should get an [or 'so the devil won't be able to take'] advantage of us: for we [Christians] are not ignorant [unaware] of his [Satan's] devices [evil intentions, plans, schemes] [which are meant to destroy us and/or our churches]."
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We can all learn something about forgiveness from the above example.JULY 6
Jesus Warns Peter About Temptation and Helps to Strengthen His Faith
Luke 22:31: "And the Lord [Jesus Christ] said [to Simon Peter (one of the apostles) during the Lord's supper], Simon, Simon, behold [look, see], Satan [the devil] hath [has] desired [wanted] to have you [and the other apostles--and all born-again Christians, too] [be under his control], [so] that he may sift you as wheat [by placing trials and temptations before you to test your faith]:"
Luke 22:32: "But I [Jesus] have prayed for thee [you, Peter], that thy [your] faith fail not [i.e., Jesus had prayed that Peter wouldn't completely lose, or abandon, his faith--see note below*]: and when thou [you, Peter] art [are] converted [in this case, referring to the time in the near future when Peter would 'turn back from' (or 'repent of') his sin of denying that he knew Jesus, which he did three times before Jesus was taken to the cross to be crucified], strengthen thy brethren [your fellow Christians] [spiritually, which he could do by warning them (from experience) about the dangers of temptation and sin and by encouraging them in their faith]."
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From these verses, according to Albert Barnes, we learn:"I. That one design of permitting Christians to fall into sin is to show their own weakness and dependence on God; and,
"II.That they who have been overtaken in this manner [i.e., like Peter was] should make use of their experience to warn and preserve others from [following] the same path."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/luke-22.html, "Verse 32")
* * * * *
*Some people may think that Peter's denial that he knew Jesus proves that God didn't answer Jesus' prayer, but that's not true. Here's what Albert Barnes said in his commentary about the phrase that thy faith fail not:"That thy faith fail not - The word 'faith,' here, seems to be used in the sense of religion, or attachment to Christ, and the words 'fail not' mean 'utterly fail' or fail altogether - that is, apostatize [i.e., forsake or abandon one's belief, faith, or allegiance]. It is true that the 'courage' of Peter failed; it is true that he had not [did not have] that immediate confidence in Jesus and reliance on him which he had before had ['beforehand'(?), or'before']; but the prayer of Jesus was that he [Peter] might not altogether apostatize from the faith. God heard Jesus 'always' John 11:42; it follows, therefore, that every prayer which he [Jesus] ever offered was answered; and it follows, as he asked here for a specific thing, that that thing was granted; and as he prayed that Peter's faith might not utterly fail, so it follows that there was no time in which Peter was not really a pious [religious] man. Far as he wandered, and grievously [seriously] as he sinned, yet he well knew that Jesus was the Messiah. He 'did know' [Jesus] the man; and though his fears overcame him and led him to aggravated sin, yet the prayer of Christ was prevalent [overpowering], and he was brought to true repentance."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/luke-22.html, "Verse 32")
JULY 4-5
This was part of King David's lengthy conversation with God in prayer:
Psalm 119:45: "And I will walk at liberty [or 'in freedom']: for I seek [try] [to obey] thy [your, referring to God's] precepts [rules or guidelines intended to regulate behavior and thoughts]."
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Everyone who wants to be free (especially from being a servant of sin) should, as David did, "seek God's precepts," which can be found in the Bible.JULY 1-3
The Apostle John's Vision of Judgment Day
Judgment day is also called the "Great White Throne Judgment" (see Note 1 below).
Revelation 20:11: "And I [John] saw a great white throne [in heaven], and [I also saw] him that sat on it [the throne, referring to the Lord Jesus Christ, who is the Son of God, or God the Son], from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away [vanished, disappeared from view]; and there was found no place for them [the earth and heaven]."
Revelation 20:12: "And I [John] saw the dead [people--those who had been resurrected, or brought back to life], [both] small and great [little and big, young and old, good and bad, rich and poor, etc.], stand before God [the Son--Jesus]; and the books [containing the records of human deeds and sins] were opened: and another book was opened, which is [called] the book of life [and which contained the names of those who had been born again (saved) and were allowed to enter into heaven]: and the dead [people] were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works [i.e., what they thought, said, and did during their lifetime on earth]."
Revelation 20:13: "And the sea [and oceans and other large bodies of water] gave up the dead [people] which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead [people] which were in them [referring to bodies that were in graves, and souls that were in hell]: and they [all of those dead people] were judged every man [and woman and child] according to their works."
Revelation 20:14: "And death and hell [personified, or represented as people] were cast [thrown] into the lake of fire [see Note 2 below]. This is the second death."
Revelation 20:15: "And whosoever [whoever, meaning everyone whose name] was not found written in the book of life [see Note 3 below] was cast [thrown] into the lake of fire."
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NOTE 1:John's vision is explained in detail in the article entitled "What is the Great White Throne Judgment?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/great-white-throne-judgment.html.
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NOTE 2: Have you ever seen a lake of fire? There are many pictures and videos of "lava lakes" on the Internet. In 2014, I found a very graphic video of a volcano filled with vigorously boiling lava that looked just like a lake of fire. I posted the link to that video, along with some background information, in the "Salvation" section of my Christian forum under the heading "Lake of Fire." The article is entitled "WARNING! You must be saved God's way or you'll end up in the lake of fire!"
That article can be found here: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?f=91&t=58, but for your convenience, I have copied it below:
"On September 8, 2014, 'Nightline' had a segment about a man (Sam Cossman) who rappelled into an active volcano (Marum Crater in the South Pacific) while wearing a GoPro camera and stood next to 'a boiling pit of red-hot lava,' as stated by Michael Strahan on 'Good Morning America.' It's the perfect picture of what the Bible calls the 'lake of fire.' Since then, almost four million people have viewed the video ('Volcano Diver') on YouTube. Click on the following link if you want to watch it too: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BAdFvTo9874. The lava part starts at around the 1:17-minute mark.
"This is what the Bible says about the lake of fire:
"-- Revelation 20:10-15: 'And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.
"Here's what the Bible says about soul winning:
"-- Jude 1:22-23: 'And of some have compassion, making a difference: And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.'
"Many of the people who commented on the video made fun of hell. Here's what the Bible says about that:
"-- Romans 3:18: 'There is no fear of God before their eyes.'
"If you sincerely want to go to heaven instead of hell, you'll find out what to do by going to my website and reading one or more of the tracts that are listed on the 'Printable Gospel Tracts' page. Here's the link: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.
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NOTE 3:You can only go to heaven if your name is written in the book of life, so I'm wondering:
-- Is your name written in the book of life? If not, it can be! If you believe that Jesus Christ (God's Son) died on the cross to pay for your sins and that he was buried and rose again, all you need to do is sincerely ask him, through prayer (either silently or out loud), to come into your heart and save you so you can go to heaven when you die.
(If needed, detailed explanations of the plan of salvation, along with many Bible verses, can be found in the "Printable Gospel Tracts" section of my website. Here's a direct link to that page: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.)
