A Bible study
Contents
Introduction
These studies are used in conjunction with the Chronological Combined Gospel.
As none of the gospels are written chronologically, the order may not be
precisely accurate; but this should not allow us to infer any doubt as to
the truth of each event. In describing the crucifixion, Mark says 'with a
loud cry, Jesus breathed his last.' Luke tells us what he said; 'Father,
into your hands I commit my spirit.' Matthew and Mark reveal the very significant
cry of the Redeemer as he took our sin upon himself, 'My God, my God, why
have you forsaken me?' He knew the answer: it was the very reason that he
came to earth as a man. John alone tells us of two other things Jesus said
on the Cross. 'I am thirsty' and 'It is finished'. Combining the gospels
we have a greatly enriched account of the life and work of Jesus Christ.
In these studies we are only looking at Luke's account, but keeping in mind
what the other Gospels say.
Another value of combining the gospels is that it often gives a better context
for each event, thereby increasing our understanding of it. For instance
in the famous parable of the Sower, Matthew tells us that it was the same
day as the incident in which Jesus' mother and brothers wanted to see him.
And pointing to his disciples he said, "Here are my mother and my brothers.
For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister
and mother." The Sower parable gives the same instruction; we need to hear
and with perseverance obey for there to be fruit. Then Mark and Luke continue
with the parable of the lamp that must be put on a lampstand, where Jesus
concludes, "If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear. Consider carefully
what you hear ..."
All quotes are from the Gospel of Luke using the NIV unless otherwise stated.
Luke's Objective
11-4
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is not political or religious rhetoric.
Neither is it a theological treatise.
Faith is based upon facts: events which actually happened.
Luke records the clear indisputable truth given by
'eye-witnesses'.
Many 'facts' were as prophesied in the OT.
'... the things that have been fulfilled among
us.'
Why significant? God always keeps his word. His word is true.
Luke gives a 'carefully investigated' and
'orderly account'.
Not given to the exaggeration by much repeating, nor the distortion of time.
Word of mouth is usually subject to additions and alterations.
He made sure of the evidence from at least two witnesses.
Deut 1915
This reliable evidence of the kindness and grace of God is overwhelming.
Of the 211 events recorded in the 4 Gospels, Luke tells of 140 and
37 are unique to Luke.
'Orderly' here means ordered by subject rather than chronologically.
This is readily apparent when viewing the Combined Gospel Index.
The apostles and witnesses are described as being
'servants of the word'.
Their preaching contained no vain deceived philosophy of men.
Unlike the Apostles, many ordained men have since with regret exalted both
themselves and their office.
When there is scripture we do not understand or it seems inconsistent,
the fault lies not in the written Word, but in ourselves.
Luke probably envisioned a wider audience than the
'most excellent Theophilus'.
The prologue of Luke and Acts are not like the epistle addresses;
but are more like the formal dedication in a modern
book.
The scripture Luke wrote is 'able to make us wise
unto salvation.' 2 Tim 315
And God will use it to keep us from falling. Jude 124
In these studies we will be going through Luke in chronological order.
Birth of John
Foretold
15-25
'In the time of Herod king of Judea ...'
15
What was the current political and moral situation?
Rome under Pompey had conquered Judea in 63 BC
Herod the Great (son of Antipater) showed such zeal and force in Galilee
that he was made 'King of the Jews' for 33 years. But
he was an Edomite.
In spite of his power he suffered great personal insecurity:
He built Caesarea to gain favour with Rome, extended the 2nd Temple
to please the Jews,
built Masada for his own emergency fortress, and killed
the babies in Bethlehem to protect his own kingship.
Rome allowed the Hasmoneans (Maccabees) to continue as High Priests,
but power and self-righteousness had corrupted them.
Despised.
Jews hated Roman rule: subservience, taxes, heathen ways and rough justice.
These difficult days were endured, hope was low, and few men sought God.
Why should we think it any better in today's world? Man has not changed.
In that unhappy nation God had prepared two people, Zechariah and Elizabeth.
'Both of them were upright
in the sight of God.' 16
This not just the opinion of man, but is the verdict of God, who sees all
of a man.
How were they righteous? There is only one way for all men of all ages;
by faith they all looked to the day of Jesus Christ.
They did not earn their righteousness by their obedience;
they were obedient because God had given them new birth.
Did it mean that their life was easy and triumphant? No!
Was Job's life easy? Far from it.
His friends were in error when they insisted that his disaster was because
of his sin.
Trials are common to all men; let us not be surprised if we are afflicted.
They are given to discipline us and teach us to trust in the Lord. Heb
58 12
They will most often drive us closer to Christ and prevent complacency.
'They were both well on in years' and
had probably given up all hope of a child.
They had prayed and wept before God to no avail; but they were not bitter.
How long is it before we give up praying for something or someone?
Why does God seem to be deaf?! When does something seem too difficult?
Is God saying 'No' or 'Wait'?
Most barren women, Jews or Christians will blame themselves, and ask why
God is so displeased with them.
It can be because of sin, but it is definitely not necessarily so.
God's answers often come at an unexpected time and in strange ways.
God had been silent since Malachi, over 400 years earlier. (Though
they always had the Word of God)
Why was Zechariah burning incense? And what were the people doing outside?
Just in front of the veil every morning and evening a priest would take in
live charcoal and incense after the sacrifice had been
offered.
The people prayed and hoped that God would accept it.
Burning incense today is not necessarily wrong just because the RC's abuse
it.
In Rev 84 it is used to represent the prayers
of the saints.
Each of the 24 divisions would serve only twice a year;
so each priest would only serve once or twice in his
lifetime.
God knew when Zechariah's turn would come (by lot) - he had planned it.
But Zechariah had no idea what was about to happen.
When he entered, would God be angry or gracious?
To be suddenly confronted by Gabriel would frighten any man.
God has sent angels to men many times. They are wonderfully real!
e.g. Abraham Gen 18, Jacob Gen 32, Moses
Exd 3,14, Gideon Judges 6,
Samson's parents Judgs 13,
David 1 Ch 21, Daniel Dan 6, Zech 3-6, Is 3736 ...
Now it was to Zechariah, and to Mary, the Shepherds and to Joseph.
Each of them trembled with fear and needed comfort; why?
Inward sense of weakness and corruption.
If the righteous tremble before the angel of the Lord; what will the ungodly
do?
Their fear will be well grounded and eternal.
Gabriel's detailed message - not platitudes or vague generalities:
'Do not be afraid
Elizabeth will bear you a son...
You are to give him the name John
He will be a joy and delight to you
Many will rejoice
He will be great in the sight of the Lord
He is never to take wine
He will be filled with the Holy Spirit even from birth
He will bring back many to the Lord their God
He will make ready a people prepared for the Lord'
113-17
This was far beyond their earlier dreams of parenthood.
Never give up on prayer, however unlikely the request may seem.
It is God who decides the what and when of the answer.
John = grace, gift or mercy of the Lord. This was God's plan/hope for man.
They had no idea that God's time for the coming Messiah had arrived.
The 'weeks' for the coming of the Anointed One had been fulfilled. Dan
925
Abraham's promised 'seed' was about to appear. Gen 123
2218
He would bless all nations.
Characteristics of Messiah's reign: justice and peace, righteousness and
truth,
willing obedience, generosity and joy. Is 35 Is
22-4
Many try to anticipate this today; but do so wrongly:
Seek peace, but not reconciliation with God through Christ
Seek freedom but unwilling to obey the Good Shepherd
Seek happiness more than holiness
Seek security but think it is gained by wealth
Seek knowledge but not wisdom.
'A wise son brings joy to his father.' Prov 101
New birth is far better than an honours degree.
Receiving the mercy and grace of God is better than position or wealth.
Salvation brings more joy than any other: pray this for them above all else.
Nazarite vow. Num 61-21 Separated to the Lord. Willingly,
not forced.
Samuel (1 Sam 111) took the vow and kept it - unlike Samson (Judg
1617)
'Filled with the Holy Spirit even from birth'
How does this affect our theology?!
With God all things are possible.
A heart is never too young to sin, nor too young to repent and believe.
John would prepare the people as prophesied in Mal 31
45,6 How?
They needed to be expectant and earnest in seeking righteousness.
He would be a sure sign that the promised Messiah was about to come.
Later, Jesus confirms that John was the Elijah to come. Math
1114
Preparing and turning hearts must be the prime task of any minister.
Zechariah's response: 'How can I be sure of this?'
118
Or how do I know you're telling the truth and not kidding
me?
Elizabeth and I are much too old now.
Gabriel's words did not initially meet with faith, but only with reason.
The shock was too great. c.f. "We had hoped ..." on the Emmaus road.
But God knew his man - faith would blossom where hope had once died.
Gabriel reveals who he is - an archangel, no less!
The same angel who had appeared to Daniel. Dan 816
921
He gave him a sign - struck dumb for 9 months! - a daily reminder that his
unbelief had offended God.
God's word would still 'come true at the proper
time.' 120
Zechariah learned his lesson: do we?
Righteous believers can still be plagued with unbelief: beware.
The people wondered why he was so long.
They wondered even more when he came out dumb!
When his week of service ended and the scripture simple says,
'He returned home ... his wife
Elizabeth became pregnant.' 123,24
How easy it is in God's way and at God's time.
How may we know what God's way is in our day?
Elizabeth remained in seclusion for 5 months, and God took away her disgrace.
then ... 'in the sixth month ...'
The moment came that God (and the righteous) had waited for.
All those generations from Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham,
Moses ...
Mary Believes Gabriel
126-38
In the 6th month of Elizabeth's pregnancy Gabriel is sent by God
to another lady, Mary in Nazareth.
Angels delight to obey all God's commands. O that men would do the same.
The text twice mentions that Mary was a virgin. Why important?
Jesus could not have been the Son of God if he were
Joseph's son.
If he were the son of Mary and Joseph, he couldn't have
been the perfect sacrifice that God's justice required.
This is no trivial matter or an interesting subject for debate. It is absolutely
vital for the salvation of man.
The blood of bulls and goats can never take away my sin. Heb
99
All the OT sacrifices only looked to the day of the one perfect sacrifice.
God's plan from the dawn of time was about to be fulfilled. (4000 years)
By one woman sin came into the world, and death;
by one woman God himself came into the world, and eternal
life.
She was "a virgin pledged to be married to a man
named Joseph."
God's provided a protector for her in her time of vulnerability and need.
God sends an angel to assure Joseph that Mary had not been unfaithful;
but that her child was 'from the Holy Spirit' (no small
matter to believe this)
and he would be Yeshua, the Christ, (again, God's choice
was right)
who would save his people from their sins. Math
118-25
God sends his greetings! God is most gracious.
'You are highly favoured!' Yes, indeed
so, but why?
Her special task of bearing the Son of God; and that
'the Lord is with you.'
God's announcement of the coming of the Saviour of the world
is made to a poor young lady in an obscure Galilean
village.
He could so easily have chosen a queen in a Jerusalem palace. 2 Co
89
How different from the ways of man.
For God to be willing to become a man, even a king, is condescension.
Mary was highly honoured and remains so; but she is never to be worshipped.
Nor is she to be prayed to, as if Jesus were too busy. How insulting!
Like Elizabeth, Mary was a righteous lady, but being born of man and woman
she could not have been immaculate.
Neither is there any evidence that she was resurrected like Elijah or Enoch.
Roman Maryology is a devilish doctrine.
Later in the ministry of Jesus a woman cried out,
"Blessed is the woman who gave you birth."
But Jesus replied, "Blessed
rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it." Lu
1127,28
As with Daniel and Zechariah, Gabriel's mission was to explain God's plan.
Mary had no inkling as to what was about to happen.
It is not surprising that 'Mary was greatly
troubled.'
Gabriel's message - the most important announcement of all time:
Do not fear Mary.
You have found favour with God.
Your child will be the Yeshua, the Messiah, Son of the
Most High.
He will sit of David's throne and reign for ever.
Fear can easily destroy faith.
Gabriel repeats the gracious and comforting words of God -
'Do not be afraid.'
Then comes the surprise bombshell. She, Mary, was to bear the Messiah!
The King who will reign for ever with power and justice
and righteousness.
Soon all who believe in Jesus will exchange a cross for a crown, but not
yet.
Jews over many generations had earnestly longed for him to come.
And not just to remove the Babylonian, Greek or Roman
subjugation.
They longed for his reign that ends all wickedness and brings real peace.
Dan 924
Mary would not only see him, but he would be her child.
The surprise of this announcement cannot be over emphasised.
This 'throne of David' is not the office of Saviour to Gentile believers,
but 'King of the Jews' (and Gentiles) when he shall
come again. Jer 308,9
Mary's sublime response:
'How will this be, since I am a virgin?' Or
is there anything I need to do?
This is quite different to Zechariah - 'how can I be sure you're telling
the truth?'
Gabriel explains that the Holy Spirit would come upon her. That's all!
He gives her the example of Elizabeth for 'nothing
is impossible with God.'
Jeremiah saw this too 600 years earlier. Jer 3217
Our faith at best is feeble and our knowledge at its highest is clouded
but the grace of God is always sufficient and his power
greater;
He will certainly fulfil all that he has promised. 2
Co 129 Heb 613-20 Math 2435 Ro
831 Zech 47
'I am the Lord's servant. May it be to me as you
have said,' says Mary.
No further questions. Absolutely amazing. Her 'blind' faith is staggering.
What about her reputation? What will Joseph say?
All will laugh at her preposterous claim.
But she accepts the honour, knowing God will answer the many difficulties.
Gabriel's mission accomplished, he leaves; there is nothing more to say.
You don't always have to understand how to be obedient.
At Cana Mary didn't know what Jesus would do; just obey she said. Jn
25
She had learned herself that understanding often follows obedience.
But sometimes what God does remains a mystery.
Note that mystery does not nullify the vital fact of the incarnation.
"Our God contracted to a span, incomprehensibly made man." C.Wesley
What is the ministry of the Holy Spirit ?
He Convicts. Jn 168
He Reveals. Dan 228 Amos 413
He Comforts (strengthens). Jn 1416,17
Mary Visits
Elizabeth
139-56
Why was Mary in such haste to see Elizabeth?
Thrilled when Gabriel told her that her elderly relative was 6 months pregnant.
Miracles can build faith and expectation.
Without this visit, Elizabeth may never have been so filled with the Holy
Spirit
and Mary may never have sung such a great song.
Real Christian friendship is rare, but of inestimable value. Prov
2717 (AV)
"Happiness communicated doubles itself. Grief grows greater by concealing;
joy by expression."
The result of Mary's visit was that Elizabeth, her baby and Mary were each
filled with the Holy Spirit.
No wonder Elizabeth prophesied, "Blessed are you
among women, and the child you will bear."
An understatement! No other woman has, or will be so
blessed.
Note how Elizabeth blesses Mary, but she does not worship her.
Unlike her child, Jesus who is always to be worshipped
- but so rarely is.
He would bring more joy and truth than any man, before or since,
in heaven as well as on earth - a multitude no man can
number.
He would be the 'Good Shepherd', the Saviour Redeemer, the King of Kings.
All the longings of man (and heaven) would be fulfilled in Mary's child,
now just a few dozen cells in her womb.
Then comes Elizabeth's reaction, "But why am I so
favoured ..."
Why should God choose to give me salvation? I cannot answer.
It is certainly not because of anything I am or have
done. Deut 77,8 96
'The mother of my Lord'. This indicates
Elizabeth knew the profound significance of the babe
that both she and especially Mary were carrying.
Two unimportant country ladies bearing the Messiah of
the world and his Forerunner.
The Holy Spirit revealed this to her (and to us), and they believed.
Faith is not striving to believe the unbelievable, or trying to do the
impossible.
How may a man have faith? Many ask, but do not like God's answer.
"Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message
is heard through the word of Christ." Ro 1017
What is the message? How is it heard?
It is a treasure sought and a gift received.
It is being sure that was who he said he was
and thoroughly achieved what he
and the prophets said he would -
i.e. Redeem us and bear the just
punishment that we deserve.
So as Elizabeth reveals to us,
"Blessed is she who
has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be
accomplished!"
All that the Lord said was accomplished. i.e. The birth of the Son of God.
Herod would try to destroy him.
Islam, and even some Bishops, may deny the Saviour's sonship.
But it happened just as God had promised and exactly
when he planned it.
All that the Lord has said concerning our salvation will be accomplished.
And all that he has promised of Israel and the end times will happen on time.
See what the men in Heb 11 achieved.
They each had faith in God fulfilling what he had promised.
When we are set before the great throne of God,
It will be faith that is valued, not gold or knowledge or position.
Mary confirms this in her beautiful song: brilliant, spontaneous poetry and
music.
She begins with humble worship to her Lord and her Saviour.
To the one who extends his mercy to her and to all who fear him.
Let us daily have the deep conviction that we are debtors,
and every day we have far more mercies that we deserve.
Mary is deeply aware of detailed Jewish history and God's promises as she
says:
He has been mindful ... He
has performed mighty deeds ...
He has brought
down rulers ... He has filled the hungry ...
He has helped
his servant Israel ... Even as he said ...
No wonder she began, "My soul glories in
the Lord ..."
She sees what Jesus would do as already fulfilled.
But she did not yet know the costly sacrifice it would
require. 235b
It is obvious that the OT Scriptures were well known to Mary.
See similar thoughts in Hannah's song. 1 Sam
21-10
John Baptist
Born 157-66
Although elderly there were no complications when Elizabeth gave birth.
Neighbours shared her joy on 8th day.
Covenant of circumcision c.f. Christening / Dedication
.
Let us 'rejoice with those who rejoice and weep
with those who weep.' Ro 125
Jesus went to a wedding (Jn 2) and to funerals. (Jn 11 and Lu
711-16)
At one point during the naming the neighbours seemed to be taking over.
But first Elizabeth and then Zechariah said firmly, "His name is John."
Obedient to Gabriel's instructions. What's in a name?
John = grace, gift or mercy of the Lord.
It aptly describes John's 'preparation' ministry.
Also 'The Lord's hand was with him' (John).
That did make his life easy, but it did make it righteous and effective.
Zechariah speaks again. People wondered.
But it would be over 25 years before they would see the answer.
Being dumb in last 9 months encouraged obedience.
Never despise affliction - it works for our good. Job 425
The sorrow that humbles us and drives us nearer to God is a blessing.
c.f. King Ahaz who turned even further from the Lord.
2 Ch 2819-23
Zechariah had learned from his folly of questioning an Archangel.
It led to his being filled with the Holy Spirit so that he prophesied.
(Partly spontaneous and partly carefully thought out
during affliction)
Zechariah
Prophesies
167-80
There are many similarities to Mary's song.
Part 1 Concerns the Saviour.
Begins with praise, quite rightly. Why? What for?
God has come to redeem his people. (Note tense)
This is the crying need for all of us. God had to do what we cannot do.
But remember Christ was not yet born (only 3 months conceived)
He longed for and saw the day of the Messiah, however imperfectly
Horn of salvation = strength, effectiveness. 2 Sam 223,4
Salvation from a descendant of David.
As promised. e.g. Covenant with Abraham. Gen 123
228,14 174
Covenant with David. 2 Sam 712-16 Prophesied. Gen
315 4910
Is 97 5310-12 Jer
307-11 Dan 924 Ezek 1662,63 Zech
99 Mal 42 etc
Zechariah's only warrant for hope was on God fulfilling his covenanted word.
His faith may well put us to shame,
who know of the historical facts of Christ's birth,
his death and resurrection.
God's faithfulness to his word is of equally vital importance today.
The last days are in God's hand, not Satan's nor man's.
What God has done for the Jews (and us) he will surely complete. Phil
16
Rescue from enemies.
Heathen Rome and also from Satan's grip.
Wickedness will no longer prosper, and temptation will loose its enticement.
Serve God without fear in holiness and righteousness.
What better life goal? What greater joy?
Part 2 Concerns John
He will be the fore-runner, the preparer, the 'Elijah who is to come'.
Man's first sin led to the knowledge of good and evil.
John would give knowledge of forgiveness and salvation (sacrifice for sin).
The Messiah alone would bring peace. Peace and reconciliation with God.
Col 113 Lu 1942
Do we know this forgiveness and peace? Are we sure?
What does our certainty depend upon?
The child grew and became strong in spirit, and
he lived in the wilderness ...
Zechariah and Elizabeth probably died while John was still young, and he
went to live with the Essenes.
The Genealogy of Jesus
323b-38
(also Math 11-17)
1. Math begins with Abraham and goes forward to Joseph.
Luke reverses the order and goes back to Adam.
2. Math and Luke are different from David onwards.
Math traces the line of Joseph the son of Jacob,
the legal line.
Luke traces the line from Mary's father Heli, the blood line.
3. The English translations can be misleading as it seems that Luke
is suggesting that Jesus was the son of Joseph. Clearly he wasn't. When Gabriel
was explaining to Mary about the son she would conceive he records, You
will be with child and give birth to a son) and you are to give him the name
Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The
Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign
over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end." "How will this
be?" Mary asked the angel, "since I am a virgin?" The angel answered, "The
Holy Spirit will come I upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow
you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God." Lu
131-35
The Greek has no definite article in Lu 323
Jesus ... was (the) son) so it was thought, of Joseph ... the son of HeIi.
It could therefore read, Jesus ... was the son of Mary, the son of HeIi
(though many supposed he was the son of Joseph)
4. There is a further difference in the two genealogies concerning Shealtiel.
On God's instruction, Jeremiah cursed the line of the evil king Jehoiachin,
saying that his line of descent would cease. None of your offspring will
prospe~ none will sit on the throne of David. Jer 2230
This too was fulfilled. The blood-line was broken after Zedekiah, when
Nebuchadnezzar killed all Zedekiah's sons. 2 Kgs 257
Jesus could never have been born into a cursed line. Thus Shealtiel was the
son of Neri, notJehoiachin. Lu 327 Math 112
After the Babylonian exile, the signet ring (the kingship) was passed to
the new and righteous 'king'. 'On that day,' declares the Lord Almighty,
I will take you, my servant Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel,' declares the Lord,
'and I will make you like my signet ring, for I have chosen you,' declares
the Lord Almighty. Hag 223
5. Mary and Joseph were both descended from David.
Mary was descended from David through his son Nathan.
Lu 331
Joseph was also descended from David, but through
Solomon. Math 16
As always, God kept his promise to David. 2
Sam 712 Lu 1838
6. Jesus was descended from Judah not the priestly line of Levi.
He was priest of a different, eternal order. Heb
711-28
What do we know of these long lists of names; their joys, fears, plans, hopes,
faith... are lost in time.
Each were born and then died. c.f. Jesus, who said,
I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even
though he dies;
and whoever lives and believes in me will never
die. Jn 1125,26
Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because
I live, you also will live. Jn 1419
Jesus, Born in
Bethlehem
21-7
Census brings Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem.
Joseph was obedient and did not divorce Mary. Still 'pledged', so not yet
married. Math 118-25
(Quirinius was governor of Syria 6-9 AD - 2nd
census in 6 AD)
(He led a campaign in Asia minor before being Proconsul
of Asia in 3 BC )
Micah prophesied his birth in Bethlehem because God knew and ordained where
his Son would be born.
The end of the 9 month pregnancy was fulfilled the very same week as the
Roman census.
Augustus Caesar never realised the import of his ruling.
Some find it surprising how God can use the decisions
of heathen men.
They were both descendants of David, and thus from Bethlehem.
Today it would be considered unwise to walk / donkey ride the 120 miles!
The likes of Rome do not allow such problems to excuse men from their law.
A clean manger (used for food) is an excellent crib.
It is nonetheless a most humble place for the Son of God to be born.
Even the best palace would be a vast condescension. 2 Co 89
Note that wealth ruins far more souls than poverty.
The 'stable' was more likely to have been a cave than a wooden building.
As with Elizabeth, there were no problems in his birth.
Very few would recognise who it was that Mary held in her arms.
Even fewer knew why the Son of God had to be born - to pay the price for
my sin.
"Our God contracted to a span, incomprehensibly made man."
And at this time no one yet realised what it would cost him - Crucifixion.
Over 30 years would pass before anyone understood or believed this.
Why did God choose this moment in history?
(Why does he still graciously wait before coming
again?)
In his wisdom God had prepared and waited for the very
best moment.
Babylon, Persia and Greece had been defeated.
The 4th 'Beast' was now in power and would soon fade, but not
be extinguished.
This Baby born would begin a new Kingdom that would never end.
The Magi would be the first kings to bow before the 'King of Kings'. Math
21-12
Most would never willingly do so.
At the beginning the murderous Herod fails to kill him. Math
213-23
And in the end of time men will even dare to attack
him. Rev 1919 208,9
Many thought the sceptre had departed from Judah; not so! Gen
4910
In Egypt the 'first-born' die, but here in Israel this 'First-born' brings
life to a stricken world.
Shepherds See and Rejoice
28-20
Many shepherds in Israel. Not despised as in Egypt. James 25
Abel, Moses and David were shepherds.
Of all people on earth, they were the first that God told about the birth.
God knew that most religious leaders would have scorned the announcement.
Shepherds watched for thieves, predators, wanderers, sickness - day and night.
How does God watch over his people? No one could take greater care.
c.f. Men with great power who usually destroy, enslave.
An angel appears, brilliant glory - why terrified? It doesn't happen every
day!
"Fear not ... good news ... great joy ... for all
people ... the Christ is born!"
Long expected, hoped for - men have always yearned for utopia, but sadly
not for God's peace.
'Peace ... goodwill'. Not a universal declaration
of peace toward all humanity.
Nor is 'peace' a reward for those who have good will
for others.
It is a gracious gift to those who are the objects of His good will. Eph
15,9 Tit 34,5
It is the result of justification by mercy and grace. Ro 51
Lu 322 1232
i.e. 'peace toward men on whom God's sovereign pleasure
rests.'
'City of David' = Bethlehem. Lu 24 211
'Saviour' Lu 211 is only used here and in Jn
442 'Saviour of the world.'
How did the Jews think the Messiah would appear?
Not as a helpless baby born to a poor maiden!
Heaven and all God's angels were thrilled; and showed it.
If only men would respond with the same joy to God's good news.
Upon whom does God's favour rest?
Abel, Noah, Lot, Moses, Samuel, David, ... and now upon
all who sought.
Lev 261-13 Job
3314-29 Ps 841-12
At last 'Satan's head was about to be bruised'.
The Word had become flesh; no longer just 'types and figures'. Jn
114 Heb 11
Salvation was to be opened to all men, not just Jews.
The world could receive no better news. It was indeed 'good tidings'.
How would the coming of Christ bring 'Glory to God in the highest'?
The world would see the depth of patient love in the birth of his Son,
true holiness in his life,
power and compassion in his miracles,
wisdom in satisfying justice through his atoning death,
the mercy of God in his willingness to forgive the repentant
believer,
and the power of an indestructible life in his resurrection.
God's plan fulfilled.
Creation glorifies God, but the redemption of man does so even more.
The shepherds respond immediately and with discerning faith.
They said, 'Let us go and see the thing that
HAS happened',
Not 'Let us go and see IF this thing is true'.
And they found it be exactly as the angel had told them. As if they
would lie!
Angels are holy, heavenly beings, not politicians or
common men.
The shepherds did not debate nor did they question who would care for the
sheep in their absence.
They committed the sheep to him who called and obeyed.
They returned to their sheep.
Now was not the time to follow as the disciples did later.
But they could still treasure their sight of the Messiah.
For them, shepherding would never be the same again.
Some may well have lived another 30 years and become disciples.
How many of their countrymen would believe their testimony?
Matthew tells how the Magi came seeking the Messiah. Math
21-12
What prompted them to come to Jerusalem?
Where did they come from? Probably from ancient Babylon, at the teaching
of Daniel.
Even out of the camp of evil, idol worshipping men, God can save some!
Likewise today some are being saved from Islam and from Western greed.
How can so many remain so totally and tragically deceived?
Obedient to the Law
221-24
Because Joseph and Mary were obedient to the Law, they and others were blest.
Because Mary had given birth to the Son of God,
she did not say that she didn't need to keep the Law;
quite the reverse.
Jesus came not to annul the Law, but to fulfill it. Math 517
1. Circumcised on 8th day - sign of everlasting Covenant. Gen
1712
In obedience to the Angel Gabriel he is named Jesus (Saviour) (Heb Yeshua)
(Note Angels on British stamps this Christmas (1998)
are all female - none are in Bible)
Could have be named Prophet, King or Judge, but chose Saviour.
How wise and precious is God's choice to all believers. Prov
1810
Public testimony to all that he was born a Jew, a son of Abraham and David.
Though above the Law, he was willing to be born 'under the Law'
in order to free us from the Law's condemnation.
The uncircumcised could never teach in Synagogue or in the Temple.
Jesus submitted to this as he later did in his baptism. Math
313-17 1 Co 919-22
2. Purification after 40 days. Lev 124,6,7
3. Firstborn males redeemed, consecrated to the Lord. Exd
131,2,11-16
A sign of deliverance from slavery at first Passover. Jn
832,34
Poor were allowed to bring 2 pigeons c.f. Lamb + pigeon. Lev
128
Simeon Sees the Saviour
225-36
Simeon was righteous. Why/How?
Devout = religious, implies consistency and zeal.
Righteous. Only one way. Same as Noah and Abraham. Gen 69
156 Ro 41-6
Though one of the dark times in Jewish history, God had some righteous men.
God had promised him his great desire to see the Messiah. So he waited.
His desire was not just for himself, but for Israel to be 'consoled'.
Do we have a consuming goal or hope?
The Holy Spirit was active in the OT, before Calvary and before Pentecost:
Moses and 70 Elders Num 1125
Bezalel Exd 313 Joshua Deut 349
Moses Neh 920 Is 6311 Othniel,
Gideon, Jephthah, Samson Judg 3-15
Saul 1 Sam 106 1614
David 1 Sam 1613 Jahaziel 2 Ch
2014
Zechariah 2 Ch 2420 Elijah and
Elisha 2 Kg 29 Elihu and Job Job 328
334
Coming Saviour Is 112 611
Lu 418 Ezekiel 22 83
115 371 1831 3626 Mic
38
Many others, for no man can even believe God except the Spirit quickens.
What is his work? Conviction, revelation, wisdom, skill.
c.f. today's emphasis of the 'gifts of the
Spirit'.
Simeon was obedient to the moving of the Spirit and went to the Temple.
The consequence is for God to determine.
Simeon finds the child and prophesies - as did Zechariah and Mary.
"Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss
your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have
prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles
and for glory to your people Israel." Lu 229-32
Begins, "Sovereign Lord ..." Like Ezekiel who used this expression 210
times,
he saw God was king, not Rome, nor the Edomite Herod
or false Pharisees.
This is a great truth when we see wickedness prevail in the world.
As always, God is faithful to his word. Fulfilment brings peace and release.
Simeon is completely delivered from the fear of death. 1 Co
1555-57
He longed for the 'better city', and was certain of it. Heb
1116,1
Prepared Salvation will be seen by all (but not believed by all).
Gentiles are to be included. Few saw then what God had told Abraham. Gen
123b
Salvation is not by learning or choice, but by revelation that brings faith.
Israel will one day be truly honoured. (even the Church has rarely done this)
Then Simeon says (prophesies) to Mary:
(Joseph would not live to see the ministry and crucifixion of Jesus)
"This child is destined to cause the falling and
rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so
that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce
your own soul too." Lu 234,35
This Child will 'cause the falling and rising of many in Israel'.
God reverses worldly positions and values. Lu 152
1619-31 Ps 10740,41 Mk 1031
Also Jesus would 'fall' bearing our sin and rise again.
All believers must first fall in repentance to be given new life.
Religious leaders would speak against and deny resurrection.
The Cross of Christ has always been a dividing sword that reveals what is
really in the heart of a man. 1 Co 118,23 Jn
847
Why was it necessary?
They hated me without reason. Jn 1525
Despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows ... Is
533
Mary, you will witness this event. It will pierce your soul.
But John will care for you, and God himself will heal
the wound. Jn 1926,27
Simeon 'saw' much in the little child he held.
Like many before him he believed what the Holy Spirit had revealed to him.
He would not live to see the ministry of Christ fulfilled.
But this righteous man greeted God's promise.
"In history, Simeon and Anna blaze, as the match blazes before it passes
responsibility for light to the candle." J.Wilson
Anna gives thanks to
God 236-38
A prophetess, but little indication of what God had revealed to her.
Prophets interpret the past, discern the present and predict the future.
Asher was one of 10 tribes carried into captivity in 722 BC
Married 7 years then about 60 years (maybe 84) in the Temple - she never
left. Ps 84
Never underestimate what such women achieve by prayer and fasting.
It never fills the newspapers, but God treasures such and will reward them.
She too immediately recognised the child as the Messiah. Her present reward.
She knew many who longed for the Saviour. So she told them that their
Redeemer was born.
Not told how many, nor of their response. Heb 928
'By the mouth of two witnesses ...' (Simeon and Anna) Mal
31b
Who expected the Messiah to be a baby?!
Some 30 years later John Baptist would also be a herald. Jn
129
Early Years
239-52
Luke leaves out the flight to Egypt to escape the murderous Herod. Math
213-23
Joseph was instructed by God in a dream - to go and to return. They
obey.
Mary must have told Luke how Jesus grew strong, wise and gracious.
And she wasn't just biassed!
Mystery of being God and man. Jesus had to grow and learn maturity.
He knew every temptation, but he never sinned. Heb 415
They went to Jerusalem every year for Passover.
No small undertaking. Nearly 100 miles there and then back again on harsh
mountainous tracks.
Determined to obey God and do what he wanted - whatever the cost.
At time of Jesus' bar-Mitzvah Jesus remained in Temple courts.
In the travelling 'company' men often gathered together and likewise the
women.
At 12 (transition year) Mary thought he was with Joseph.
And vica-versa.
Found after 3 days frantic searching. Mary's remonstration is hardly surprising.
But she made a small and vital mistake. (She honestly told Luke this story
too)
Referred to Joseph as his father. Difficult not to. What would you call Joseph?
Jesus gently corrects her. Refers to Temple as 'my Father's house'.
And it should have been the first place to look!
Note that Jesus was not 'up to mischief' or in unprofitable company.
Mary and Joseph were astonished to find Jesus in the Temple. Why?
Neither did they understand what Jesus said.
Perhaps 12 years of 'Your father and I ...' had blunted the truth
that God was his father, not Joseph (only his legal
father).
What had Jesus been doing there for 3 days?
Asking questions. And telling them the answers!
He had learned in 12 years more than they had learned in a lifetime of study.
Revelation + right foundation (God within)
The Son of God had to learn 'morning by morning', 'line by line'. Is
504
Was he ever distracted? Was time short after Joseph died?
They went home and Jesus continued to be obedient to them.
He grew in wisdom and stature. God was pleased, and so was Nazareth.
The challenge of a good example in one thing, but the challenge of a necessary
salvation is quite another.
Nothing more for 20 years, during which Joseph died.
Brothers, James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas plus sisters. Math
1355
John Prepares the
Way 31-22
In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar
- when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, Herod tetrarch of Galilee, his
brother Philip tetrarch of Iturea and Traconitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of
Abilene - during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God
came to John son of Zechariah in the desert.
31,2
None of the these great names were known for their righteousness.
The Messiah came in days of great wickedness. (2nd Coming will
be too)
Jesus chose to come when hope was low and holiness unpopular.
To whom did God choose to give the incredible revelation that the Messiah
had come?
Was it to these 'bigwigs? No. The religious leaders?
No.
He sought out an elderly minor priest and his wife, a peasant girl, an unknown
bunch of Bethlehem shepherds,
3 foreigners, an old man of Jerusalem and an even older
woman of the Temple.
Not exactly those you might expect to set the world ablaze!
God wisdom is so different from ours. But God was right. He always is.
Some 30 years had passed since those busy days for Gabriel.
God had not been idle.
Jesus had 'grown in wisdom and stature' and God had prepared John.
Now he spoke to him. Where was he?
His elderly parents, Zechariah and Elizabeth had probably died years earlier.
John was 'in the desert'; very likely he was with the Essenes.
They practised water baptism and frequent ritual cleansing.
They also taught and longed for the Kingdom of God on
earth.
Never has it been more necessary that ministers hear the word of God themselves
There can be no greater privilege for man that God should speak to us.
What was the 'word of God that came to John'?
He went into all the country around the Jordan,
preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.
As is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet:
"A voice of one calling in the desert,
'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.
Every valley shall be filled in, every mountain and hill made low.
The crooked roads shall become straight, the rough ways smooth.
And all mankind will see God's salvation.'"
33-6
Or as Matthew and Mark record, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near."
This was God's best way to prepare for his coming - it still is!
It remains an unpopular necessity.
Repentance is not 'turning over a new leaf'. It is:
Hating the sin that God has revealed
Crying to God for forgiveness
Seeing and receiving the gift of God's salvation.
Baptism is useless without true repentance.
And even repentance cannot atone for sin. Only the blood of Jesus can do
this.
We cannot deserve God's grace; there is nothing we can do to earn it.
We are accounted righteous only by faith in what Christ has done for us.
Repentance remains a vital necessary part of being saved. Lu
133
Repentance and faith must always walk together.
In John's gospel we read:
There came a man who was sent from God; his name was John.
He came as a witness to testify concerning that light,
so that through him all men might believe.
He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.
Jn 16-8
John bore witness to Jesus, the light, the one who was to come,
that men may believe and find the forgiveness of God.
The pinnacle of his ministry was when the day came and he was able to say,
The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said,
'Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!
This is the one I meant when I said, "A man who comes after me has surpassed
me because he was before me."
I myself did not know him, but the reason I came baptizing with water
was that he might be revealed to Israel.' Jn 129-31
The 'word that came to John' was that the Saviour, the longed-for Messiah,
had come.
But in spite of John's witness, many did not recognise
him. Jn 110
The world desires a Messiah to relieve pain, suffering, poverty, injustice;
but how many cry out for a Saviour? One who will deliver
us from sin.
The word that came to John prepared the way by revealing the truth.
The Lord would come and comfort Israel. Is 403-5
A highway for the lost to find their way home.
Valley's raised to encourage the depressed.
Mountains made low; the proud humbled.
Rough ground levelled so the troubled and grieved are
comforted.
Rugged places a plain; the overworked find relief.
The glory of the Lord will be revealed.
Lord, 'Come quickly'! We so long to see all this fulfilled.
The Word of God that came to John was a trumpet that both heralds a great
event and warns men of trouble.
He preached 'a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.'
Lu 33 176-79
John fulfilled the prophecy his father gave some 30 years earlier.
He did bring the knowledge of salvation to men.
John became famous; all Israel had heard of his preaching.
The Pharisees were curious and had to check out if he was the Messiah. Lu
315
John was irritated by their questions. To him it was irrelevant who he was.
His purpose wasn't to attract followers, but to prepare them to meet the
Messiah.
He did not claim to be God's representative on earth.
Considered himself not even worthy of a servant's feet-cleaning task. Jn
127 330
No false modesty here; for John was no weakling.
He was not a reed shaken by the wind. Lu 725
Nor a well-dressed "yes-man" in a king's court.
God trusted him with power to attract huge crowds and to sway them,
but it did not corrupt John or change his message.
The Messiah is coming very soon. Repent now or die! Math 32
His message was vital and urgent - not for half-hearted followers.
John said to the crowds coming out to be baptized
by him, "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming
wrath? Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not
begin to say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our father.' For
I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham.
The axe is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that
does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire."
37-9
Many were baptised ,but others rejected God's plan for them. Lu
728-32
Indeed, Jesus said there was no prophet greater than John;
he was the last of a long line that God had graciously
raised up.
John was not a diplomat! He was bold, direct and truthful.
God may call a few to jolt us into hearing the truth using John's style.
But all ministers should be plain-speaking. Lu 626 Is
3010 Math 530 1028 2333
Let no one imitate today's politicians and their 'spin' to gain popularity.
From the start Satan has tried to tell men 'they will not surely die'. Gen
34
There is a coming wrath, and the world needs to be warned. Ro
118 25 1 Th 110
Who will tell them? Who will warn men that all is not well.
No man will 'flee', unless he first sees there is great need to do so.
Religion in most Western Churches is too comfortable.
It was also true then too. Thought God's wrath was reserved only for Gentiles.
Blind to history: Israel's permanent exile and Judah's exile to Babylon.
In those days too there were those who 'made decisions' or had some experience,
but whose lives failed to reflect a new birth they claimed
by bearing fruit.
Our words must be accompanied by deeds.
Faith without works is dead. James 122 217
Math 721
Good works can never save, but they can show that true faith is alive.
Repentance is not only sorry about the consequence of sin,
it learns to hate the sin itself. And it is starved
to death!
How did the people react to John's message - then and now?
a) John is a real 'nutter', only the Messiah, only God, can take away sins.
b) "Oh no, not again, he's always on about sin - what about love?"
c) Afraid or Embarrassed - so change the subject, or tell the latest joke.
d) Intellectual diversion. "Really, how interesting, what is sin? Why a Lamb?"
e) "What do I have to do? How? Please, tell me now!" - The truth at last!
Now I can know the forgiveness of God, and be accepted
by him
f) Others thought they were already 'chosen' or 'saved', sons of Abraham.
True by lineage, but regrettably not spiritually. Jn
833-41
Regrettably they thought they were ok. Did their best.
No one perfect ...
Attendance at Church or belonging to a Christian family
is a great privilege,
but it never automatically ensures
our salvation.
Abraham's blood in a man's veins cannot save him,
He must have Abraham's faith and trust in the blood
of Jesus.
God is the Remover of sin as well as the Giver of blessing and strength.
When was I first aware of sin against God?
We do 'wrong' against others, but as David said in Ps 514
"Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil
in your sight."
What is the consequence of sin? Is it really death?
God told Adam and Eve that if they ate from the forbidden tree they would
die.
And they did; although they still went on walking and talking,
but their relationship with God was broken; and that
is death.
Sin cannot just disappear like a common cold.
Sin needs to be 'surgically' removed and redeemed. Heb 922
1 Jn 17 - 22
Does God ignore my wilfulness, greed, half-truths, lust, impatience, and
pride?
Jesus is clearly concerned about all our sins;
But he was crucified to defeat the principle of sin, from which all wickedness
springs.
'The axe ...' John saw the consequence of their rejecting the Messiah;
and it was not revival!
This was no trivial warning. Eternal fire is no joke.
So many are deluded into thinking they can safely ignore God's Word.
The future of every man is either the bliss of heaven or the fire of hell;
there is no other alternative and it is eternal.
This awful truth gave John his urgency and directness.
No time to waste; no opportunity to be missed.
God is not only able 'to raise up stones' but has graciously done so. Lu
1940
Many Gentiles have found salvation in the Jewish Messiah. Ro
98 Gal 27
It should be noted that John does not say that the profession of the tax
collector,
the soldier or even the publican is wrong.
Some of the crowd asked him what they should do:
Share your clothing and food. Be honest financially
and not greedy or abuse power.
They even wondered if John were the Messiah; this had to be quickly
scotched.
The people were waiting expectantly and were all
wondering in their hearts if John might possibly be the Christ. John
answered them all, "I baptize you with water. But one more powerful than
I will come, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will
baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. His winnowing fork is in
his hand to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn,
but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire." And with many other
words John exhorted the people and preached the good news to them.
315-18
The people were 'waiting expectantly'.
Any congregation with this attitude will grow rapidly.
Most men do not reject Jesus; in ignorance they ignore him.
John awakened men to seek God.
He made it abundantly clear that he was not the Messiah;
not even worthy to be a servant of the Messiah - and
he meant it.
The test of any ministry must be, "Is Christ exalted?" "Do I learn
and experience more of Jesus?"
Man can easily experience water baptism;
but only God can baptise with the Holy Spirit and assure
men of the forgiveness of their sin.
He must become greater; I must become less. Jn 330
Very few will exalt another at their own expense, but John was glad to do
so.
Few would say 'burning with unquenchable fire' was good news!
But to be able to be baptised with the Spirit, to receive his revelation,
to be gathered wheat, and separated from chaff and weeds,
this is surely good news to all who have learned to
hate sin.
The visible church today remains a mixed bunch.
Only the unerring judgement of God can separate the wheat and the chaff.
Let us be diligent and honest in judging ourselves that we may not fear that
day when Jesus threshes the harvest;
burning the chaff and gathering the wheat.
Some are shut in, while others are shut out. No grey area.
How do we respond to exhortation? Lu 318
Are we earnest in spreading the Good News?
John was the final 'stepping stone' in preparing the way,
God had been preparing for this great day for 4000 years. How?
He gave Adam and Eve skins, and drove them out of Eden. One day to return.
Then came Noah, Abraham and the Patriarchs, the Covenants, the Law, Exodus,
the promises, sacrifices, feasts,
even exile and return, all the OT prophets.
All these years God was preparing for this great day
When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was
baptized too. And as he was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit
descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven:
"You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased." Now Jesus himself
was about thirty years old when he began his ministry.
321-23a
John was initially unwilling to baptise Jesus. Math 314
If John preached a baptism of repentance, and Jesus was without sin, why
did he seek to be baptised? Math 315
1. While sinful men all need to repent, Jesus didn't.
There are two parts to repentance; a turning away from
sin and a desire to do the will of God.
Here Jesus is publically affirming he will do what he
and Father had agreed.
To be the 'Lamb of God', the 'Good Shepherd' who lays
down his life for us.
No wonder it so obviously please his Father.
2. There is also the baptism of the Holy Spirit and Fire. Lu
320
What is the work of the Holy Spirit and the fire?
He reveals the truth, good and bad. Lu
226 1021-24 Is 531 Jn
131 1 Co 29-12 313
He is the Comforter, the one who strengthens and enables.
Math 411 Lu 2243
The fire refines. Zech 138,9 Mal
32-4 Dan 128-10
The Holy Spirit comes to Jesus at baptism; but it should be noted well that
the Holy Spirit was always with him.
It was a special occasion so that all would know this truth.
What is baptism for us?
Baptism is not an initiation ceremony. Not for infants, nor for adults.
It is the public testimony of what has already taken place. Ro
61-14
It witnesses to a death that has happened which then leads to life; a life
set free from sin's dominion.
There is little evidence for the baptism of infants by John or the Apostles.
It is much better left until adult years, and should never be without
proof of faith.
If Jesus thought it 'proper' to be baptised, who are we to lower it's importance?
Seeing the dove descend confirms the identity of Jesus to John. Jn
132,33 Ps 27,8
Like Elisha seeing Elijah ascend - and for same reason. 2 Kg
29-12a
Note that the heavens were opened 'while he was praying'.
Probably committing his ministry life and asking what was first on the agenda.
Father, Son and Spirit were each so looking forward to man's reconciliation.
God delights in prayer; formal and informal, regular and spontaneous.
Why do we so often neglect this great privilege?
This passage clearly reveals the truth of the Trinity of God.
The Son is baptised, the Father speaks, the Spirit descends as a dove.
All three together are equally concerned to deliver us from hell.
Though the enemies of our soul are many and powerful;
the Friends of our soul are mightier. Ecc 412b
Jesus was 'about 30 years old'.
To work in the Tabernacle men had to be 30 - 50 years old. Num
43
Jesus waited till the right time. He was subject to the law he gave to men.
Tempted in the Wilderness
41-13
After blessing and assurance at baptism, God tests Jesus. 'at once' (Mk
112)
Blessing and testing are often only a short step apart.
Jesus was willingly obedient. Would we be?
The 'temptations' must be included in 'this all happened at Bethany'. Jn
128
And the 'next day' (Jn 129) refers to after his return from the
desert. (John does not record the temptations)
Jesus is tested by God - knew Jesus would win.
Like he knew that he would win with Job.
Jesus is tested by Satan, who saw his domain threatened so contested and
fought.
At the end of the 1000 year rule of Christ he will fight. Rev
207,8
Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the
Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the desert, where for forty days he was
tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of
them he was hungry. The devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, tell
this stone to become bread." Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not
live on bread alone.'" 41-4
'Full of the Holy Spirit'. How manifest? Wasn't he before?
The result? Led to fast 40 days in the desert. Not undertaken lightly.
Not known what God said during the 40 days. At the end he was hungry!
The devil led him up to a high place and showed
him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. And he said to him, "I will
give you all their authority and splendour, for it has been given to me,
and I can give it to anyone I want to. So if you worship me, it will all
be yours." Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Worship the Lord your God and
serve him only.'" 45-8
The devil led him to Jerusalem and had him stand
on the highest point of the temple. "If you are the Son of God," he said,
"throw yourself down from here. For it is written: "'He will command his
angels concerning you to guard you carefully; They will lift you up in their
hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.'" Jesus answered,
"It says: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.'" When the devil had
finished all this tempting, he left him until an opportune time.
49-13
How was Jesus tested?
1. Bread. For me, now. I need it, I deserve it. Indulgence, self-gratification.
Do I seek an easy life, or seek to serve whatever the cost? Math
2028 Lu 922-25
Priorities. What comes first? The goal c.f. the present perceived need.
a) Tried to sow doubt, to question what Father had said.
Same as with Eve. 'Did God really say ...?' Gen
31
b) 'Because you are the Son of God ...' If you don't, it's because you can't!
c) Tried to cause doubt in God's provision.
God will not help you, you must help yourself.
The glad testimony of God was - "This is my beloved Son ..."
c.f. Sneering suggestion of Satan, "If you are the Son
of God ..."
Jesus was not taken in for a moment. Satan's seed never even germinated.
Jesus used the Word of God immediately and accurately. Jn
432,34 Math 44b
Eve was also tempted to eat unlawfully - and she fell.
God faithfully supplies all our needs (what is best), but not all our wants.
e.g. manna in Sinai, Elijah fed at Cherith, Jesus fed
5000 and 4000.
2. Dominion. Material goods and worldly power.
Was the kingdom Satan's to give away?
A prince cannot give away the property of the King. Jn 1430
1713 Dan 1013
He has been given limited authority.
Jesus is King now but his kingdom has not yet come. Jn 1231
1 Jn 519 J n 1836
He taught us to pray that it would be soon. Lu 112 Rev
2217,20 Ro 819-25
Jesus king of this world in Millennium. Rev 204,6
Seek first God's kingdom of righteousness and truth. Math
633
Rich fool of Lu 1213-21 c.f. In Christ now. Eph
21-7 Col 113
Satan adds a terrible condition - to worship him!
God to worship Satan; ridiculous!
Jesus didn't contend his false claim and attempted bribery.
Again he used the Word of God 'It is written ...' and defeated him.
It is God whom we worship - no other, and not ourselves.
The promise to Eve of wisdom was also false.
3. Spectacular.
Repeats 'If you are the Son of God ...' Tries again to introduce doubt.
Misuse of scripture. Many cult leaders also do this.
Just think what a spectacular miracle would do! Notoriety, Popularity.
To jump would have killed him. How Satan hates our Saviour.
Jesus was not fooled by false use of Scripture.
Would that Christians today were less gullible.
Many try to make Christianity popular with signs and wonders.
They try to prove their ministry by 'signs following'. Wrong motive.
Nothing wrong with miracles; but they are not a tool for us to use.
Healing is motivated by compassion; not desire for the spectacular.
God performs miracles at his own time. Dan 317,18
Why was Satan's quote so wrong? See the context.
Ps 91 is about trusting God who is faithful.
It is not for man to test God and see if he will keep his word!
God protects our life with him, our dwelling with him. Ps
911,9
Not our mortal bodies - sometimes he does this too. Dan
317,18
These three di not presume God would save them.
Some will die in persecution, but God will honour them.
There is no protection for reckless, self-promoting spectaculars.
Satan is told that it is not for man, even the Son of Man, to test God.
Again 'It is written ...'
[Note that Luke reverses the order of the 2nd and 3rd
temptations]
Satan had done his very best - and failed.
Like Antiochus when he left Egypt, he was angry and frustrated.
And longed for his next opportunity.
He greatly enjoyed the spectacle at Calvary - but he failed there too!
Note.
A) Only Jesus could have revealed these events to the disciples. He told
them for our learning.
1. How does Satan tempt? What lures does he use? What
methods?
2. Jesus reveals how to defeat him.
B) These temptations took place in the mind (the hunger was physical)
Temptations usually begin in our thoughts.
"I'll enjoy that, I'll buy that,
I'll do that. That's cool!" 2 Co 105 97
C) Jesus shows us the high value of knowing the Bible.
It's meaning, goal, example and use.
Jesus quoted x3 from Deut. How often do we read
this book? It is more than dull 'Law'.
D) The unwearied malice of Satan.
Let us be unwearied in our resolve to resist him. Use
the Word. James 47
Put on the whole armour of God. Eph
610-18
Do not be surprised if we are tempted. Expect it and
be ready.
God remains faithful. 1 Co 1013
E) Jesus endured suffering when tempted, how much we will never know.
But he defeated his enemy, and ours. Heb
214-18
Jesus is not austere, but full of compassion. Heb
415
He knows and feels our every pain and trial
He endured trials too - and far greater than any of
ours. Heb 58-10
Jesus returned to Jordan. John pointed him out as being 'the Lamb of God'.
Jesus met Andrew and Peter.
When John was imprisoned ,Jesus went to Galilee. Jn 129-51
Math 412 Lu 319,20
Jesus Rejected at Nazareth
414-30
Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit,
and news about him spread through the whole countryside. He taught in their
synagogues, and everyone praised him. He went to Nazareth, where he had been
brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his
custom. And he stood up to read. The scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed
to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written: "The
Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news
to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery
of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of
the Lord's favour." Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back
to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were
fastened on him, and he began by saying to them, "Today this scripture is
fulfilled in your hearing." All spoke well of him and were amazed at the
gracious words that came from his lips.
414-22a (Is
611,2)
Synagogues originated during the Babylonian captivity after the Temple was
destroyed.
This was not the first event after the victory over Satan's temptations.
423 refers to what he had already done in Capernaum.
414 tells how he taught in their synagogues and news about this
had spread.
Jesus was obviously an honoured citizen of Nazareth and welcomed in the
synagogue.
The people had seen his godly character and how well he had looked after
Mary
and his younger brothers and sisters after Joseph had
died.
'Everyone praised him' - but not for long.
A wonderful choice of scripture.
Note that Jesus stopped before the end of Is 612
The time for Judgement would come later at his 2nd Coming.
Scripture chapters and verses were inserted much later (1528 AD Pagnini)
How easily God's word is misinterpreted.
What does "the year of the Lord's favour" mean?
Why did Jesus choose this passage?
In their sad trials he wanted to tell them their Messiah had come!
The Anointed One promised to Daniel by Gabriel had arrived
right on time.
The One who alone can deal with sin and bring in righteousness
and the longed-for everlasting Kingdom of God.
Dan 924,25
True anointing is of the Spirit. Lu 321,22
'Good news to the poor'. There weren't many rich in Galilee.
The good news is for those who see their own poverty of spirit.
620
Jesus came to make them eternally richer than they had ever dreamed.
Likewise the imprisoned are those held fast by bad habits and evil thoughts.
Sin is a cruel master which brings only misery.
And the blind are those deceived by Satan; those who hate the light of God
because their deeds are evil. Jn 319
2 Co 44
The "Lord's favour" was not to bring release from Rome, but from sin.
But the people of Nazareth didn't understand this.
They saw the prospect of riches and freedom.
They were delighted at the hope of utopia; especially when promised today!
How quickly they changed when the truth was revealed.
There would be no relief from the daily grind. Jn 415
"Isn't this Joseph's son?" they asked.
422b
They were so wrong on this vital point too.
Jesus had grown up with Mary and Joseph and they assumed that 1 + 1 = 3 !
Get this wrong, and Jesus is not the Son of God but just another man.
A very good man, but not the perfect Saviour Redeemer we all need.
The men of Nazareth had known Jesus for 30 years. How could he be Messiah?
He is good and kind, yes, but Messiah? Never!
They could not admit that they had been wrong all those years.
He had seemed so 'ordinary'.
Much of what was said is not recorded, ('he began by saying ...'
421)
but it is clear that he challenged their beliefs and
their need of salvation.
His clear claim that 'Today' I fulfill these words, they rejected: then ...
Jesus said to them, "Surely you will quote this
proverb to me: 'Physician, heal yourself! Do here in your hometown what we
have heard that you did in Capernaum.'" "I tell you the truth," he continued,
"no prophet is accepted in his home town. I assure you that there were many
widows in Israel in Elijah's time, when the sky was shut for three and a
half years and there was a severe famine throughout the land. Yet Elijah
was not sent to any of them, but to a widow in Zarephath in the region of
Sidon. And there were many in Israel with leprosy in the time of Elisha the
prophet, yet not one of them was cleansed - only Naaman the Syrian."
423-27
These people wanted proof.
Very few accept the word of God as the truth.
Jesus shows us that the OT is truth, God's Word, and not a collection fables.
Jesus did not say these things to antagonise.
Although they were in synagogue, like their predecessors they had little
heart for God.
They did not realise their desperate eternal plight.
This truth challenged their hearts.
All the people in the synagogue were furious when
they heard this. They got up, drove him out of the town, and took him to
the brow of the hill on which the town was built, in order to throw him down
the cliff. But he walked right through the crowd and went on his
way. 428-30
Their response was typically murderous. Why? Ro 87
They were also offended that God, their God, should choose two Gentiles,
rather than them. Math 2010,11
Men are always offended at the sovereignty of God.
It would not be the last time men reacted like this. Jn
837,40,44,59 730 1039 etc
On that occasion they also tried to kill him, but God protected him.
Note that these are the correct fulfilment of Ps 9111 c.f. Lu
411
As Jesus walked away from Nazareth, he must have wept.
Why are men so stubborn, so foolish as to reject the finest gift of God.
Why so arrogant that they think they know better.
Jesus wept, but he did not give up. 2 Co 49,10
John records the wedding at Cana and water to wine as the 1st
miracle.
Luke records that Jesus drove out an evil spirit in Capernaum and healed
the sick,
including Peter's mother-in-law, then called the Apostles.
But Luke's Gospel was not written as a chronological history,
so we will assume Mark's order of the calling of the
Apostles next
and then the driving out of the evil spirit from a man
in Capernaum.
Jesus Calls 4 Fisherman to
Follow 51-11
Luke alone tells us of the occasion when Jesus needed to teach the crowds.
Simon launched his boat that was pulled up on the shore.
When he finished teaching he told Simon and Andrew to go out from the shore
and let down their nets.
They caught a huge shoal of fish and needed help from their partners, James
and John.
Matthew and Mark then take up the story a day or two later.
This time Simon and Andrew were fishing and Jesus called them to follow him.
All three gospel writers say that Jesus told them not to be afraid for he
would make them fishes of men,
and how they immediately obeyed, leaving their boats.
Thus there were three stages in the calling of these 4 fishermen:
They met Jesus when they were with John Baptist at the
Jordan river. Jn 135-42
Jesus taught the crowds and they caught the great shoal
of fish. Lu 51-10
Jesus called them to leave their boats and follow him.
Math 418-22 Mk 116-20 Lu
511
One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret,
with the people crowding around him and listening to the word of God, he
saw at the water's edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were
washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon,
and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught
the people from the boat. When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon,
"Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch." Simon answered,
"Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because
you say so, I will let down the nets." When they had done so, they caught
such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. So they signalled
their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and
filled both boats so full that they began to sink. When Simon Peter saw this,
he fell at Jesus' knees and said, "Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!"
For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had
taken, and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon's
partners. 51-10a
The people crowded round him, hungry to hear the truth.
He did not teach the latest philosophy, but the Word of God.
He did not teach 'high-brow' theology; ordinary fishermen understood, and
longed for more.
Like at the well, Jesus asked a simple favour - this time a boat.
Very practical. He could sit and all the crowd could both see and hear.
Jesus did not need a consecrated building or a special pulpit.
Any place, any time; so long as hungry people could hear the Word of God.
No record of what he taught on this occasion but the theme was:
'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.' Math
417
Jesus saw that Simon and his friend were weary and sad - no fish.
He had compassion and wished to thank them for the use of their boat.
It was a catch that would provide for their families.
And a story that would surpass all fisherman tales!
It was their first lesson, a revelation that God knows best.
If only all men could see this.
We see the reward of instant and willing obedience when it seemed foolish.
It also clearly shows that the Son of God has authority over all things.
The creation came into being at his command; and it always obeys him.
Frogs, lice, locusts, Red Sea, Manna, Ravens ...
This miracle was later repeated for a post-resurrection breakfast. Jn
216
Simon Peter spoke for them all - as usual!
He was not only amazed, but realised he was in the presence of the Holy One
of Israel.
A big burly fisherman on his knees crying out his need before Jesus.
Knowing his sinfulness, he thought that God would slay him.
Jacob Gen 3230 Menoah Judg
1322,23 Job 425,6
Later, transformed by his Saviour and Lord he would write with confidence.
1 Pe 13 321 and 2 Pe 13,4 Also Heb
1019-22
Then Math and Mk tell how a few days later Jesus sees them fishing and he
calls them to follow him.
They obey, and leave their boats.
Then Jesus said to Simon, "Don't be afraid; from
now on you will catch men." So they pulled their boats up on shore, left
everything and followed him. 510b,11
Why were they afraid?
Leaving their boats and livelihood?
Wondering what was before them with Jesus?
Did they understand what Jesus meant by 'You will catch men'?
But they soon would.
This was said first to Peter and the other 3 fishermen,
then also to all who follow and believe in salvation
only through Jesus.
Did they feel weak and inadequate?
Jesus would train and prepare them.
Even now they would start 'catching'.
They were useful from the beginning, from the time of their birth.
Teaching at Capernaum
431-44
Then he went down to Capernaum, a town in Galilee,
and on the Sabbath began to teach the people. They were amazed at his teaching,
because his message had authority. In the synagogue there was a man possessed
by a demon, an evil spirit. He cried out at the top of his voice, "Ha! What
do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know
who you are - the Holy One of God!" "Be quiet!" Jesus said sternly. "Come
out of him!" Then the demon threw the man down before them all and came out
without injuring him. All the people were amazed and said to each other,
"What is this teaching? With authority and power he gives orders to evil
spirits and they come out!" And the news about him spread throughout the
surrounding area. 431-37
Not the first ministry in Capernaum. 423
Jesus spoke with justified authority , not uncertainty. Unusual.
A man possessed by an evil spirit. Then and now.
Signs of possession - 'Not himself', 'can't control himself', hates Jesus,
lies ...
Note the scorn of the evil spirit. He didn't know what was in store for him!
Evil spirits lied. Jesus had not come to destroy the man, but the demons.
He came to deliver the man into freedom.
The evil spirit spoke the truth. Jesus is 'the Holy One of God'.
But it was totally without faith or repentance.
Knowledge without trust, dependance and gratitude is mere religion.
Pharisees then and now have knowledge, but do not come to Jesus for life.
Jn 539,40
The Test: Does our knowledge of sin cause us to hate it?
Jesus rebuked the demon 'sternly' - "Be muzzled!" (= Mk 439)
Why? He did not want or need the testimony of demonic spirits; even if they
said what was true.
He didn't make any pact with them, but showed complete power over them.
How do we deal with a mixture of good and evil?
The demons tried to destroy the man when they left, such is their hatred.
But in this too they failed.
The people were amazed at his teaching before he delivered the man.
Healing and deliverance must be motivated by compassion, not the desire to
'prove' your ministry.
Jesus had shown his love for men and now his power over rebellious men, water,
fish and evil spirits.
"Christ is the true and only remedy for all the soul-ruining mischief which
Satan has wrought upon mankind." J.C.Ryle
Though common in his ministry, it is no small thing to heal like Jesus did.
Jesus left the synagogue and went to the home of
Simon. Now Simon's mother-in-law was suffering from a high fever, and they
asked Jesus to help her. So he bent over her and rebuked the fever, and it
left her. She got up at once and began to wait on them.
438,39
It all seems so easy when Jesus healed.
Though the fever was 'high' and threatening, she was healed instantly.
Fevers normally leave one weak. This healing of God was complete.
Why did this fever need rebuking, rather than healing?
Note that Peter was married. c.f. foolish Roman practice of celibacy for
priests.
When the sun was setting, the people brought to
Jesus all who had various kinds of sickness, and laying his hands on each
one, he healed them. Moreover, demons came out of many people, shouting,
"You are the Son of God!" But he rebuked them and would not allow them to
speak, because they knew he was the Christ.
440,41
Why at sunset? After the Sabbath was over.
No one went away disappointed.
No one was refused.
No sickness was too difficult.
No demon too strong.
No one had to come back next day or next week.
Why did he stop the demons from making it known who he was?
Again, he did not want or need the testimony of demonic spirits.
At daybreak Jesus went out to a solitary place.
The people were looking for him and when they came to where he was, they
tried to keep him from leaving them. But he said, "I must preach the good
news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I
was sent." And he kept on preaching in the synagogues of
Judea. 442-44
Even the Son of God needed to seek a quiet place to pray. Why?
To be refreshed and directed. He delighted to be alone with his Father.
Jesus did so more than once. Lu 516 Math
1413 Lu 612
How much more do we need and desire this?
No man should be so busy that he cannot follow this example.
Why does prayer remain the 'poor relation' for so many Christians?
Their trying to stop him leaving is understandable, but selfish.
Why did Jesus have to leave? Directed by his Father.
He had to make a very important choice. Like when choosing 12 Apostles.
The principle task of Jesus was not healing, but preaching.
Down the years preaching has always been God's prime instrument for awakening
sinners and edifying saints.
'Faith comes by hearing', not by healing.
He refused to be distracted from this.
But it never did stop him having such compassion on the sick and suffering.
They had few medicines or effective treatments, and no hospitals.
All too often sickness ended in death, and a painful death at that.
They probably asked him to stay more because he healed their sick, than because
he preached repentance. Lu 1013,14
Paul followed his example. He did not stay long in Antioch, Ephesus or Corinth.
Jesus didn't cease to have compassion on the suffering people. Math
423-25 Mk 145
Dr Luke records many healings. 15out of 23 in the Gospels (>Math or Mk)
He would be amazed at today's medicines.
But he was even far more amazed at the instantaneous healings by Jesus.
The Sermon on the Mount
He went down with them and stood on a level place.
A large crowd of his disciples was there and a great number of people from
all over Judea, from Jerusalem, and from the coast of Tyre and Sidon, who
had come to hear him and to be healed of their diseases. Those troubled by
evil spirits were cured, and the people all tried to touch him, because power
was coming from him and healing them all.
617-19
If Jesus had continued only with this most popular healing ministry, no one
would have objected.
(so long as it was not too often on the Sabbath)
BUT Jesus never let his ministry to be 'success driven'.
His principle purpose was to bring salvation to fallen man, and he never
allowed himself to be side-tracked from this.
He needed to expand their minds and longings beyond this short life on earth.
His compassion was for now and for eternity. So he taught them.
The Beatitudes
620-26
Looking at his disciples, he said:
Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.
Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied.
Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.
Blessed are you when men hate you, when they exclude you and insult you
and reject your
name as evil, because of the Son of Man.
Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in
heaven.
For that is
how their fathers treated the prophets. 620-23
(also Math 53-12)
At first sight this is a wonderful promise of a better future for those suffering
now.
But it is much more than 'Pie in the sky ...' (Nothing now, all later)
Jesus says, 'Yours is the kingdom of God' not 'will be'. Lu
1829,30
These 'Beatitudes' are the steps required to become a Christian.
'Poor' - I recognise that I am poor, lost, there is something missing in
my life.
'Hungry' - Long for God to fill the aching void.
'Weep' - Because there seems no way of bridging the gap.
We cannot find heaven, but Jesus came to find us!
We cannot win God's approval, but Jesus died to satisfy
God's just punishment for my sin.
Matthew adds :
'Meek' - Begin to learn the truth, which replaces Satan's lies.
'Merciful' - Because we have received mercy, we become merciful.
'Pure in heart' - As promised God gives us a new heart and a new spirit.
'Peacemakers' - We have been given peace with God; at a price.
(Not pacifists - the fight has just started against
all the wiles of Satan)
The result is inevitable separation and persecution.
The rejection is on account of Jesus, not our foolish ways.
The world rejected Jesus because his righteousness showed up their evil ways.
We too will be a challenge to unbelievers, who may well be offended.
Jesus tells us to rejoice at this expected reaction.
It proves the effectiveness of God's operation on our hearts.
We aren't alone. The Prophets were persecuted, and our Master was crucified.
What did Jesus promise here?
'Kingdom of God'
What God has sown within us grows. Mk 426-34 Lu
1721 Ps 1265,6
Open to all, but there are conditions. Jn 33-8 Lu
1824 810 1 Co 69
'Righteousness, peace and joy'. Ro 1417
Requires the power of God. 1 Co 420
'Satisfied' (Filled), 'Laugh'
See 'kingdom of God' above. c.f. despairing, hopeless, disillusioned
'Persecution' and 'Reward in heaven'
A privilege!
[The 'Beatitudes' and 'the Sermon on the Mount' were not given on only one
day.
They would have been preached several times to different crowds.]
Luke then reveals a major challenge of Jesus to modern western Christianity.
But this part is rarely read or considered. Usually choose Matthew account.
Woe to you who are rich, for you have already received
your comfort.
Woe to you who are well fed now, for you will go hungry.
Woe to you who laugh now, for you will mourn and weep.
Woe to you when all men speak well of you,
for that is how their
fathers treated the false prophets. 624-26
What is the chief problem that Jesus highlights in these 3 verses?
Is it sinful to be rich, well fed and happy?
Abraham was, also Job in early and latter days and many others.
Men are not saved because poor, neither are they condemned because rich.
Why does Jesus so clearly warn those who are rich, well fed, happy and popular?
Because they are content without God.
See story of rich man and Lazarus. Lu 1619-31
No man can be more deluded, more hood-winked than to think that his riches,
food or happiness in this world is secure or will last
for ever.
Note that Rev 317 was written to the church in Laodicea!
Most men seek wealth and happiness, power and security.
They will fight, steal, divorce, murder, cheat and lie to gain what cannot
last.
Compare this with what the martyr Jim Elliot wrote:
"He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep, to gain
what he cannot lose."
And even if they get wealth or power, they will always want more.
They will probably be deaf to the words of Jesus, 'You fool, ...' Lu
1220
How sad it is when a man clings to his riches preferring them to eternal
life.
See the challenge in Lu 1818-25 (and Riding Lights Video - the
Appointment)
'No one is good', said Jesus, (nor can he be so however hard he tries)
How hard it is for the rich and famous.
Note that no rich man is saved by what he gives;
for all, it is only by what Christ has given him and
offers to all men.
How can we make others hungry for the Kingdom of God?
How can we help them avoid this awful condemnation of God? 'Woe to you ...'
What compromises or 'economy of truth' have to be made to be popular?
"Politicians work for the next election, statesmen for the next generation
- where are all the statesmen?"
How are so many fooled by 'image' or 'spin'?
The National Lottery says enticingly, "It could be you!"
The Son of God says, "It will be you unless ..."!
He offers us the only true happiness now, and even more later. Rev
18 c.f. 21,22
The Law and the Prophets
1616,17
The Law and the Prophets were proclaimed until John.
Since that time, the good news of the kingdom of God is being preached, and
everyone is forcing his way into it. It is easier for heaven and earth to
disappear than for the least stroke of a pen to drop out of the
Law. 1616,17
What did the Law and the Prophets consistently proclaim?
Man had fallen and his natural nature is to sin.
He needs to be told what was right and wrong.
He needs power and a new heart to be able to do so (even if he wants to)
[Each of these is now hotly denied.]
No one has yet been able to obey all the Law!
Only Christ can transform us and give us new birth. Gal 324
'The Law and the Prophets' both loudly proclaim Christ, the only Saviour.
Man's need and God's provision.
'Proclaimed until John' does not make it redundant, but fulfilled.
What the Law sought to do (to reveal the need for Christ), it still does.
Christ has come; the door has been opened; the prophesied One is here.
Some OT men saw their need for a Saviour and rejoiced. e.g. Abraham. Jn
856
But now 'everyone' was clamouring to enter. (Though some stood back)
But the Messiah was here; the great day of opportunity had arrived.
Jesus was busy preaching that the Kingdom of God had come.
So eagre, that like earnest wrestling Jacob, they were 'forcing' their way
in.
Do we enter eagerly, or kicking and screaming?
Some enter easily, for others it is a long search.
It is 'good news' only to those who are 'poor in spirit' and admit their
need.
Praise is not so much an offering, but the ongoing heartfelt gratitude for
God's gracious forgiveness and life.
Jesus came to fulfill the Law, not abolish it. Math 517
The Law says, 'The soul that sins shall surely die' - as Adam and Eve did.
The daily sacrifices all pointed to a perfect sacrifice
who would one day remove all sin from all who believed.
Gen 228
This 'Law' - the law of death and the law of life in Christ - still stands.
Laws concerning animal sacrifices that 'pointed' to the sacrifice of Christ,
have now lapsed -
They have been fulfilled.
There is no need for any further sacrifices (or a third Temple).
What about the dietary laws? Do some apply only to 3000 years ago?
e.g. pork that required refrigeration especially in
hot climate?
But we should not eat blood with the meat.
Jesus kept all of the written law of Moses, but not the 'oral law' added
by man.
e.g. Jesus kept the Sabbath. He kept it holy and did
no work.
but he rejected the 1500 additions made after the return
from Babylon.
What is the 'Law' that imprisoned us and from which Christ has released us?
'The law of sin and death'. Ro 81-4 614,18
This law or principle says that all men are slaves to sin and cannot escape.
And the result is inevitable death.
Christ alone can set us free from both the slavery and the consequences.
Beware of claims that 'freedom' makes the law redundant. Ps
197-14 Gal 51,13
Our wayward minds will always need discipline and restraint.
Jesus here makes it clear that the fulfilled Law still stands.
It remains our 'schoolmaster that leads us to Christ'.
It reveals what God says is right and best, and what
is wrong.
Only the foolish ignore it. Sadly today, most men are foolish!
What is wrong with the Commandments? Nothing!
Why are they rejected? Because man is naturally rebellious and lustful.
The Law remains whatever man's reaction. (Ignored or rejected or diluted)
'A man reaps what he sows.' 'The wages of sin' remain unchanged; death.
Jesus met with Moses and Elijah (Law and Prophets) on the Mt of Transfiguration.
Seeking Justice
1257-59
Why don't you judge for yourselves what is right?
As you are going with your adversary to the magistrate, try hard to be reconciled
to him on the way, or he may drag you off to the judge, and the judge turn
you over to the officer, and the officer throw you into prison. I tell you,
you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.
1257-59
The world often fares better in the civil courts than a Christian.
They are not averse to bending the truth, or being 'economical' with it.
The Media delights to promote the wrong 'spin'. They love 'church' scandal.
So the Lord and his church will usually be dishonoured.
Jesus does not say Christians should not seek justice in court.
But they should make every effort to avoid it, even if it costs.
What is the motivation for going to court? Justice or pride, gain, revenge?
The context of this passage is 'interpreting the present time.'
i.e. the presence of the awaited Messiah had come, but they could not see
it.
Jesus is pointing to the Divine Court! Make every effort to be reconciled
to God.
What would happen if they ignored this day of opportunity?
Jesus pleads with them to be sensible, to 'judge what is right'.
The alternative is horrendous. There no escape or end to that prison.
Matthew Henry writes (slightly adapted): "By our sin we have made God our
adversary and he has both right and might on his side; so that
it is foolish to continue the controversy with him either at bar or
in battle. Therefore let us give diligence to be delivered out of
the hands of God as an adversary, into his hands as a Father, by repentance
and faith through Christ, for it is impossible for any man to pay even the
first penny. Let us now be reconciled with God while we may. If we refuse,
our prison will be hell for ever."
Divorce 1618
Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another
woman commits adultery, and the man who marries a divorced woman commits
adultery. 1618
This is a difficult matter which cannot be ignored. See also Math
531,32 + 193-9
It expresses God's ideal. But the tangled lives of men (especially before
being saved) are inevitably less than ideal.
Love Enemies
627-36
But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do
good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who
mistreat you. If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other
also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic.
Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do
not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you. If you
love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' love
those who love them. And if you do good to those who are good to you, what
credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' do that. And if you lend to those from
whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' lend
to 'sinners,' expecting to be repaid in full. But love your enemies, do good
to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your
reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is
kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is
merciful. 627-36
Here is a challenge for all.
As Chesterton said,
"Christianity has not been tried and found wanting,
it has been tried and found difficult!"
Some people are easy to love, but others I naturally dislike. Why?
They often display what I hate about myself.
How do we react to being hurt? Do I have a propensity for hurting others?
"To dwell above with saints I love, for sure that will be glory.
To dwell below with saints I know, well, that's another story!"
It reveals how much we need the life and grace of God if we are to become
like him.
See how Jesus treated Judas at the last supper, and how he wept over Jerusalem.
But note that this does not make Jesus a 'soft touch'.
Jesus was not weak with his critics; he was truthful and compassionate.
The 'Faithful and True' will return with a sharp sword and make war. Rev
1911-21
Many may think his judgement is severe; but it is always just.
All nations will attack Jerusalem; Jesus will destroy them. Zech
121-9 141-15
See how Jesus kept what he preached.
He loved his enemies and gave them every opportunity. Jn
1836
At his mock trial, he did not retaliate with '12 legions of angels.' Math
2653
He gives to all us undeserving who ask. We can never repay his grace.
While we were yet enemies, Christ died for us. Ro 58
(RSV)
Two sections on Prayer
111-13
One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When
he finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray, just
as John taught his disciples." He said to them, "When you pray, say: 'Father,
hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And
lead us not into temptation.'" 111-4
Hearing Jesus pray was stunning; his disciples wanted to