Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Read Ezekiel 33 -- 36

Highlights:

Our responsibility and judgment as watchmen (Ezek. 33:8-17). What is self accountability (33:20)? The Good Shepherd (34:11-20). The Covenant of Peace (34:25-31). Don't slander Israel (chap. 35)! Although God disciplines us, He's our hope (36:9,22-30).
God addressed Ezekiel as a watchman unto the house of Israel; and said to Him: Therefore thou shalt hear the Word at My mouth, and warn them from Me (Ezek. 33:7). The Israelites who remained in Jerusalem, as well as the captives in Babylon, disregarded Ezekiel's warnings that God would destroy Jerusalem if they refused to repent of their sinful ways. But, the Jews in Babylon complained that the death of their kindred in Jerusalem and the destruction of their homeland were inconsistent with the promise of God's Covenant.

Then the Lord said: Thy people say, The way of the Lord is not equal (right): but. . . . When the righteous turneth from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity (sin), he shall . . . die. . . . But if the wicked turn from his wickedness . . . he shall live (33:17-19).

When the inevitable judgment had taken place as foretold by Ezekiel, the Lord told him to say: Ye . . . lift up your eyes toward your idols, and shed blood: and shall ye possess the land? . . . ye work abomination (do detestable sins). . . . As I live, surely they . . . shall fall by the sword, and . . . die of the pestilence. For I will lay the land most desolate. . . . Then shall they know that I am the Lord (33:25-29). This was all fulfilled as prophesied by Ezekiel on the day of his wife's death (24:18,25-26). And it came to pass in the twelfth year of our captivity . . . one that had escaped out of Jerusalem came unto me, saying, The city is smitten (33:21).

Ezekiel proclaimed that holy living was the Israelites' responsibility in their Covenant relationship with God. This was rejected by those unwilling to forsake their sins. Times have not changed; living a godly life is equally unpopular today with many "professing Christians" who love what the world can offer for the gratification of the earthly nature (I John 2:15-17).

Like the Israelites, many people today talk about the love of God while ignoring His command to act righteously. As ye have yielded your members (body parts) servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity (sins leading to more sins); even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness (sanctification). . . . for the end of those things (sin) is death (Rom. 6:19,21).

Thought for Today:

Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is (Mark 13:33).
Christ Revealed:

As the Shepherd (Ezek. 34:23). Jesus said: I am the Good Shepherd, and know My sheep (John 10:14).
Word Studies:

34:14 a fat =the best; 34:27 delivered them out of the hand of those that served themselves of them =freed them from slavery; 36:3 an infamy of =slandered, ridiculed by.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Reverend Michael Hall • Government Officials: Rep. Cynthia Lummis (WY) and Rep. James Oberstar (MN) • Country: Bahamas (284,000) in the northern portion of the West Indies • Major languages: English and some Creole • Religious freedom • 72% Protestant; 26% Roman Catholic; 1% Afro-American spiritist • Prayer Suggestion: Rest in the Lord; wait patiently for Him (Ps. 37:7).
Optional Reading: Revelation 15

Memory Verse for the Week: Philippians 1:29

 

[Judy Harder]

Saturday, September 11, 2010 

Read Ezekiel 37 -- 39

Highlights:

All of us are just dry, dead bones, dead in trespasses and sin (Eph. 2:1) until God fills us with eternal life (Ezek. 37:13-14). Like Job, the latter end of Israel will be far greater than before (37:24-28). You need to know verses 38:23 and 39:25.
After Nebuchadnezzar destroyed Jerusalem in 586 BC, most of the Israelites who survived were scattered throughout Babylonia among exiles from many heathen nations. Since the Temple and City of God were destroyed, they abandoned hope for the restoration of their homeland. It was at this time of national hopelessness that Ezekiel was given a new vision and recorded: The hand of the Lord was upon me, and carried me out in the Spirit of the Lord, and set me down in the midst of the valley which was full of bones (Ezek. 37:1).

The bones were dry and bleached, having been there for some time. And He said unto me, Son of man, can these bones live? And I answered, O Lord God, Thou knowest. Again He said unto me, Prophesy upon these bones, and say unto them: O ye dry bones, hear the Word of the Lord. Thus saith the Lord God unto these bones; Behold, I will cause breath to enter into you, and ye shall live (37:3-5).

As a nation, Israel was literally and spiritually dead and without hope of restoration. However, like the dry bones, it was not buried. Ezekiel continued to prophesy and there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the bones came together, bone to his bone (37:7). Ezekiel proclaimed the Word of God, and the breath came into them, and they lived, and stood up upon their feet, an exceeding great army (37:10). Although the Israelites were saying: Our hope is lost: we are cut off from the land of promise (37:11), this army assured Israel of future restoration.

Ezekiel then was commanded to proclaim the good news: I am the Lord . . . And shall put My Spirit in you, and ye shall live, and I shall place you in your own land (37:13-14). After over 2500 years, Israel is a nation within the promised land and God will soon fulfill His promise to King David. Israel's Messiah King, Jesus Christ, will rule the world from Jerusalem (Is. 2:1-4). Dry bones also describe our sinful human nature, apart from the transforming, life-giving power of the Holy Spirit. Eternal life is made possible only when we confess and repent of our sins and invite Jesus to be Lord of our lives.

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast (Eph. 2:8-9).

Thought for Today:

Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak (Mark 14:38).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who made possible our resurrection from the grave (Ezek. 37:12). The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout . . . and the dead in Christ shall rise first (I Thess. 4:13-18; also John 11:25; Rev. 1:18).
Word Studies:

37:26 place them =settle and bless them; 38:19 shaking =earthquake; 39:6 carelessly =securely, undisturbed; 39:14 sever out men =select men; with the passengers =with the already-collected dead.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Sen. Daniel Akaka (HI), Rep. Brad Elsworth (IN), and Rep. Tim Murphy (PA) • Country: Bahrain (629,000) 11 islands in the Persian Gulf near Saudi Arabia • Major languages: Arabic and English • No evangelical work is permitted • 85% Muslim; 5% Roman Catholic; 2% Protestant; 1% Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Sing praises to God, for He hears your prayers and delivers you (Ps. 40:1-3).
Optional Reading: Revelation 16

Memory Verse for the Week: Philippians 1:29

 

[Judy Harder]

Sunday, September 12, 2010   

Read Ezekiel 40 -- 42

Highlights:

A spectacular Temple in which Jesus can dwell when He returns to earth to reign for a 1000 years is outlined in today's chapters.
A few years after the vision of dry bones, Ezekiel received another vision. In the five and twentieth year of our captivity . . . in the fourteenth year after that the city was smitten, in the selfsame day the hand of the Lord was upon me. . . . In the visions of God brought He me into the land of Israel, and set me upon a very high mountain (Ezel. 40:1-2). This new vision looked far into the future, where Ezekiel beheld a glorious Temple, far more magnificent than the Temple built by Solomon.

The measurements of the grounds and the many details concerning the building and its unusual architectural design are recorded; but no instruction was given to Ezekiel regarding who would build it or when it would be built. In striking contrast, God gave Moses detailed instructions for building the Tabernacle and even the names of the craftsmen who were to build it in the wilderness (Ex. 25:9; 31:1-11). But Zechariah foretold: Thus speaketh the Lord of hosts . . . Behold the man whose Name is The BRANCH (Jesus Christ) . . . He shall grow up out of His place, and He shall build the Temple of the Lord: Even He shall build the Temple of the Lord; and He shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon His throne; and He shall be a priest upon His throne: and the counsel of peace shall be between them both (Zech. 6:12-13).

Almost 2000 years have passed since the Romans destroyed the Temple, with no recovery of the Brazen Altar, Laver of Brass, Pure Gold Candlestick and Mercy Seat, Table of Showbread, or Altar of Incense. The Ark of the Covenant, representing the presence of God, disappeared in 586 BC, when Nebuchadnezzar destroyed Jerusalem.

The altar and the priests offering sacrifices for the sins of the people had all foreshadowed Jesus Christ, His atonement for our sins, and our relationship with Him through His sacrifice on the cross. Through the Romans who destroyed Herod's temple, God removed the opportunity for the Jews to offer further sacrifices.

These laws were imposed on them until the time of reformation. But Christ being come an High Priest . . . by a greater and more perfect Tabernacle . . . by His own blood He entered in once into the Holy Place, having obtained eternal redemption for us (Heb. 9:10-12; comp. John 4:21-24; Gal. 3:23-25; Col. 2:17).

Thought for Today:

Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you (Luke 6:28).
Christ Revealed:

Through the sacrifice (Ezek. 40:42). Jesus made the final once for all. . . . sacrifice for sins for ever (Heb. 10:10-12). Thus He became our only Mediator with God by dying for our sins. The patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us. . . . And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for Him shall He appear the second time without sin unto salvation (9:23-28).
Word Studies:

40:17 thirty chambers were upon the pavement =30 rooms faced this pavement terrace; 40:23 over against =opposite; 41:24 turning leaves =hinged panels; 42:20 profane =unholy, common.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Sen. Scott Brown (MA), Sen. Sam Brownback (KS), Rep. Ben Chandler (KY), Rep. Michael McMahon (NY), and Rep. Henry Waxman (CA) • Country: Bangladesh (125.7 million) in southern Asia • Major languages: Bangla and English • Present religious freedom may become limited • 86.6% Muslim; 12.1% Hindu; .6% Buddhist; .3% Christian; .4% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Pray to be sensitive to give God the praise for everything you do (Ps. 40:16).
Optional Reading: Revelation 17

Memory Verse for the Week: Galatians 1:24

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Ezekiel 43 -- 45

Highlights:

God is back! His glory fills the Temple once again (Ezek. 43:5)! The Holy Altar. Pay attention to the rules of God (chap 44). God expects us to support His ministry (chap 45). Note especially the keeping of the Passover pointing to Christ's death on the cross (45:21-24).
In a vision, Ezekiel had witnessed the departure of the glory of the God of Israel from the magnificent, but now destroyed, Temple built by Solomon (Ezek. 9:3; 10:4,18-19; 11:22-23). Jerusalem and the once-glorious kingdom of Israel were only memories. The Israelites had chosen practices contrary to the Word of God and were actually worshiping idols, the sun, and all sorts of creatures in the Temple that had been dedicated to God alone (8:5-17).

As judgment for their idolatry, the Israelites were enslaved in a heathen land. Again Ezekiel received a vision of a future Temple, far greater than Solomon's, where the glory of the Lord would return to dwell. Ezekiel was brought . . . to the gate . . . that looketh toward the east: And, behold, the glory of the God of Israel came from the way of the east: and His voice was like a noise of many waters: and the earth shined with His glory. . . . And the glory of the Lord came into the House by the way of the gate whose prospect (face) is toward the east. So the Spirit took me up, and brought me into the inner court; and, behold, the glory of the Lord filled the House (43:1-2,4-5).

In this vision, the Lord of Glory entered His new Temple by the very way through which He had departed from the old Temple (comp. 10:19 and 11:22-23). The Eastern Gate led straight to the Temple entrance of the eternal King, who said: I will dwell in the midst of the children of Israel for ever, and My Holy Name, shall the house of Israel no more defile (43:7). The emphasis is the importance of holiness in the lives of the people of God.

The physical Temple had foreshadowed the life and ministry of Christ. In the millennium there will be no need for types or symbols because God the Father and Jesus Christ, whom the symbols represented, will be present. Our preoccupation should not be with how and when the prophecies will be fulfilled; but above all else we should be concerned that our body, mind, and spirit be prepared for the Lord's return.

Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the Temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which Temple ye are (I Cor. 3:16-17).

Thought for Today:

And He spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint (Luke 18:1).
Christ Revealed:

As the glory of the Lord (Ezek. 43:4). Jesus is the brightness of His glory (the glory of God), and the express image of His Person (Heb. 1:3).
Word Studies:

43:4 whose prospect is =which faces; 43:12 limit =the whole border, territory; 43:13 higher place of =height of; 43:14 settle =ledge on which the priests stood; 43:17 squares =sides; 44:18 bonnets =turbans, headdresses; 44:22 put away =divorced; 45:24 meat =grain/cereal/meal.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Rick Hash • Staff: Rita Guerra • Government Officials: Rep. Lincoln Davis (TN) and Rep. Peter Roskam (IL) • Country: Barbados (259,000) on the island farthest east in the West Indies • Major language: English • Religious freedom • 79% Protestant; 8% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Pray to be considerate to the less fortunate (Ps. 41:1).
Optional Reading: Revelation 18

Memory Verse for the Week: Galatians 1:24

[Judy Harder]

Read Ezekiel 46 -- 48

Highlights:

Reminders of our Lord Jesus Christ. We see the Prince of Peace (Ezek. 46), the River of Healing (chap. 47) where He healed them all (Matt. 4:24; 8:16; 12:15; Luke 4:40; 6:19; 8:47), the land (chap. 48) with the Temple in the center (48:, and the Lord is there (48:35).
The first part of Ezekiel's final vision from God described the Temple (Ezek. 40 — 43); the second part described the worship and the character of the worshipers (44 — 46). The final part tells us of life-giving waters that issued out from under the threshold (doorway) of the house eastward (47 — 48) and of the boundaries and divisions of the land. The further this water flowed, the deeper it became. Among other things, it symbolizes our continued walk with the Lord, for as we experience more and more the all-sufficiency of His provision, we come to realize that His supply for all of our needs is abundant and unlimited.

The description of the land and the city are very different from either ancient or present-day, geographical Israel. This is a vision anticipating the glorious future that all believers in Jesus as the Messiah will experience. All who know and love Him as their Savior will enjoy the new promised land during the millennial reign of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Ezekiel was led by his guide to the front of the Temple. The water apparently emerged from under the Eastern Gate as a small stream that flowed a thousand cubits, a little less than one-third of a mile. Ezekiel then records: The man . . . brought me through the waters (47:2-3). Ezekiel states that it was ankle-deep. The same process was repeated at a second and at a third time, each distance measuring a thousand cubits. At these locations, the water was found to be to the knees and then to the loins (47:4). At a fourth distance of a thousand cubits (47:5), the water had become a river that could not be passed over because of its depth.

Water provides life for the trees which bear wholesome fruit (47:9,12). This is what the Holy Spirit does in the lives of those who yield to Him. We begin to experience His gracious supply as a small stream which flows out from Christ the Fountainhead, and it continues to increase in preciousness as we daily walk in the light of His Word.

Our loving Father has provided His people with a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding (flowing) out of the throne of God and of the Lamb, the Lord Jesus Christ. . . . And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely (Rev. 22:1,17).

Thought for Today:

Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man (Luke 21:36).
Christ Revealed:

Through the river of living waters and one of the Names of God, Jehovah(Yahweh)-Shammah meaning: The Lord is there (Ezek. 47:1-12; 48:35; also Rev. 21 — 22).
Word Studies:

46:7 as his hand shall attain unto =as much as he can afford; 46:24 places of them that boil =where the Temple servants are too boil the sacrifice; 47:2 utter gate =outer gate.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Country: Belarus (10 million) in northeastern Europe • Major languages: Belarussian and Russian • Religious freedom • 48% Orthodox; 22% Roman Catholic; 1.1% Jewish; 1% Protestant; .2% Muslim; 27.7% Agnostic/Atheist/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for a greater desire to serve the Lord (Ps. 42:1-2).
Optional Reading: Revelation 19

Memory Verse for the Week: Galatians 1:24

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Daniel 1 -- 3

Highlights:

Daniel's faith. Daniel is a prime example of teaching godly principles to every level of life. Beginning as a teenage captive (Dan. 1:1-3), he would not defile himself (1:8-16). Declares wisdom is from God (2:19-28).
Soon after their capture, Daniel and other selected Israelite captives were assigned new names which would identify them as citizens of Babylon. This was an attempt to remove their identities as children of God. The king's intent was that these select men be taught to think and live like Babylonians. Daniel means "God is Judge," but his Babylonian name Belteshazzar means "Prince of Baal."

As Daniel heard his new name called day after day, it was intended to remind him that the comfort, self-esteem, and high position he enjoyed in his new society were all the result of his being the "Prince of Baal."

Nebuchadnezzar dreamed dreams, wherewith his spirit was troubled. . . . The king commanded to call . . . the Chaldeans, for to shew the king his dreams. . . . The Chaldeans answered before the king, and said, There is not a man upon the earth that can shew the king's matter (Dan. 2:1-2,10).

But, after Daniel and his friends prayed, the secret was revealed to Daniel in a night vision and he proclaimed to the king that there is a God in heaven that revealeth secrets, and maketh known to the King Nebuchadnezzar what shall be in the latter days (2:19,28).

Daniel revealed to Nebuchadnezzar that the giant image in his dream represented successive kingdoms that would rule the world. The head was of fine gold and represented Nebuchadnezzar. His breast and his arms of silver symbolized the Medo-Persian Empire, which would become the next dominating world power. The Grecian Empire, represented by his belly and his thighs of brass came next. The fourth empire, with his legs of iron, his feet part of iron and part of clay (2:32-33), depicted the Roman Empire.

The Roman Empire will be revived as a one-world government in the end times. But it will be destroyed at the return of Christ, whose kingdom shall never be destroyed (2:44). The exact details may not be clear, but it is vitally important to be prepared for the soon coming of our King. For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known (I Cor. 13:12; comp. Acts 1:7).

Thought for Today:

And when He was at the place, He said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation (Luke 22:40).
Christ Revealed:

As The Stone that smote the image (Dan. 2:35). The Stone is Jesus Christ (Acts 4:11; Eph. 2:20; I Pet. 2:4-8).
Word Studies:

1:4 Children in whom was no blemish =young men who were strong and healthy; 2:1 sleep brake from him =he was unable to sleep; 2:31 great image was terrible =dreadful, awesome, frightening; 3:19 the form of his visage =his facial expression ; 3:21 hosen =other garments.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Iva Ann McElroy • Staff: Kevin Jennings • Government Officials: Rep. Joe Barton (TX) and Rep. Mark Kirk (IL) • Country: Belgium (10.2 million) in northwestern Europe • Major languages: Flemish and French • Religious freedom • 74% Catholic; 3% Muslim; 1% Protestant; .5% Orthodox; 20% Secular Humanism; 1.5% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Remember that God delights in your joy (Ps. 43:4).
Optional Reading: Revelation 20

Memory Verse for the Week: Galatians 1:24

[Judy Harder]

Read Daniel 4 -- 6

Highlights:

Daniel interprets: Results (Dan. 4:34-37). Writing on the wall. The importance of the Holiness of God (5:23-24). Jealousy brings attack on Daniel (6:6-9), who trusts God and is honored (6:10,22,28). God punishes (6:24). God praised (6:26-27).
Belshazzar ruled Babylon near the end of the 70-year-long, prophesied Jewish captivity. On the night the Medo-Persian army invaded Babylon to defeat and execute Belshazzar, he was celebrating a great feast with a thousand of his lords. . . . they brought the golden vessels that were taken out of the Temple . . . at Jerusalem; and . . . drank in them. . . . and praised the gods of gold, and of silver (Dan. 5:1-4).

Suddenly the fingers of a man's hand (5:5) appeared and wrote on the wall. With great fear, Belshazzar panicked and his knees smote (struck) one against another (5:6). To His dismay, his astrologers and soothsayers were unable to interpret the message.

In desperation, Belshazzar summoned Daniel who boldly revealed the meaning of the handwriting: This is the interpretation . . . God hath numbered thy kingdom, and finished it (5:26). That night Darius . . . took the kingdom (5:31).

Darius decided to set over the kingdom an hundred and twenty princes. . . over the whole kingdom; And over these, three presidents; of whom Daniel was first. Because of envy, the other presidents and princes said to the king: All . . . have consulted together to establish a royal statute . . . that whosoever shall ask a petition of any God or man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions (6:1-2,7-8). Without realizing its real purpose, the king signed the decree.

Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber (room) toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime (6:10). Daniel could have reasoned that, since he was not asked to worship an idol, why not cooperate for thirty days or just pray in secret? We need to ask ourselves: "If a similar decree were issued today, would it make a difference if we were told by government officials that we could not worship in church on the Lord's Day?" Yes, Daniel ended up in the den of lions but, afterwards he was able to testify to the king: My God hath sent His angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths (Dan. 6:22).

Thought for Today:

Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered (Rom. 8:26).
Christ Portrayed:

By Daniel — a stone was rolled across the mouth of the den of lions and set with the king's seal (Dan. 6:16-17). There was a stone rolled across the mouth of the cave where Jesus was buried and it too was set with an official seal (Matt. 27:63-66). As Daniel came forth unscathed, proclaiming the power of God to save, so, too, Jesus came forth from the dead proclaiming the saving power of God (Rev. 1:18).
Word Studies:

4:11 the sight thereof to =its visibility extended to; 4:16 & 32 seven times =seven years; 5:5 against the candlestick =opposite the lampstand; 5:12 shewing of =rare ability of revealing the meaning of baffling riddles.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Bible Pathway Printer: Ambrose Printing Staff, Nashville TN • Government Officials: Rep. Jo Ann Emerson (MO), Rep. Dale Kildee (MI), and Rep. Eric Massa (NY) • Country: Belize (236,000) on the eastern coast of Central America • Major languages: English and Spanish • Religious freedom • 64% Roman Catholic; 26% Protestant; 2% spiritist/animist; 1% Hindu; 1% Muslim; 1% Baha'i • Prayer Suggestion: Remember that the Lord is always ready to help you in times of trouble (Ps. 46:1).
Optional Reading: Revelation 21

Memory Verse for the Week: Galatians 1:24

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Daniel 7 -- 9

Highlights:

God reveals to Daniel what will happen in the future (Dan. 7:1-14)! His first vision explained (7:15-28). His second vision explained (8:19-27). A loving Creator provides understanding (9:22-27).
After the awesome grandeur of Nebuchadnezzar's dream of world governments is described (Dan. 2:19-45), the Lord reveals through Daniel, another dream that exposes man's selfish ambition and use of cruel, savage power.

All these governments controlled the world at different times. Daniel said: I saw in my vision . . . and, behold, the four winds of the heaven strove upon the great sea (7:2).The great sea is fallen humanity with its fierce competition and godless instability. The four winds illustrate the impact of selfish ambition and greed.

Four great beasts came up from the sea, diverse (different) one from another (7:3). The beasts correspond to the kingdoms of Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome. The first (beast — Babylon) was like a lion, and had eagle's wings (7:4). Since the head of the great image of Nebuchadnezzar's dream was gold, it was also fitting that a lion represent the king among animals. And behold another beast (Medo-Persia) . . . like to a bear (7:5), represented the empire which would later conquer Babylon.

The third beast, like a leopard, which had upon the back of it four wings of a fowl (7:6), represented the Grecian Empire. The four wings illustrate the speed with which Alexander the Great would conquer the ancient world.

The fourth beast . . . was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns (the ten nations of the revived Roman Empire). This final beast was dreadful and terrible (terrifying), and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue (ruthless expansion) with the feet of it (7:7).

The ten horns (7:24) correspond to the ten toes of the feet (2:42) of Nebuchadnezzar's great image (2:31) and represent a confederation of ten future world rulers, followed by another little horn (king) (7:. This little horn represents the Antichrist who shall speak . . . against the Most High, and shall wear out (oppress) the saints (believers) (7:25). But he will be destroyed by "the Stone" (2:35,44-45), Christ, who shall come to be glorified in His saints (Christians), and to be admired in all them that believe (II Thess. 1:10).What a glorious time that will be!

Thought for Today:

I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting (I Tim. 2:.
Christ Revealed:

As the Son of Man (Dan. 7:13-14). The truth of this vision was confirmed by our Lord as He spoke of His promised return. They shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory (Matt. 24:30).
Word Studies:

7:25 wear out =to persecute with purpose of entire annihilation; 7:28 cogitations much troubled =bewildered thoughts; 8:7 choler =brutal rage; 8:24 wonderfully =astonishingly successful; 9:7 confusion of faces =look of shame; 9:25 wall =moat; 9:26 cut off =cut to death.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Henry Rogers • Staff: Al Joslyn • Government Officials: Sen. Charles Grassley (IA), Justice David Souter, and Rep. Gene Taylor (MS) • Country: Benin (6 million) in western Africa • Major languages: French and tribal languages • Some hostility toward Christians • 59% animism and voodoo; 17% Muslim; 16% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: God wants to be exalted through you (Ps. 46:10).
Optional Reading: Revelation 22

Memory Verse for the Week: Galatians 1:24

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Daniel 10 -- 12

Highlights:

Gabriel sent to Daniel but the prince of Persia withstood (a demonic force). It's war and every child of God is in it (Dan. 10:11-13). The march of the kings, 1,2,3, (chap. 11). At the end, Michael the archangel appears and a time of great anguish follows. But read the promise to those whose names are written in the Book of Life (12:1).
The kingdoms of this world eventually will erupt into open hostility toward God and His people. Daniel foretold that during the period of the revived Roman Empire terrible persecution would take place. The Antichrist shall exalt himself, and magnify himself above every god, and shall speak marvellous things (blasphemies) against the God of gods, and shall prosper till the indignation (wrath) be accomplished (Dan. 11:36). Jesus speaks of an abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet (Mark 13:14).

There have been many antichrists over the past 2000 years, as the Apostle John foretold (I John 2:18); and the driving force of all antichrists is to destroy the Kingdom of God. There shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation . . . and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book (Dan. 12:1).

But Daniel also said: I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what shall be the end of these things? And He said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed (kept secret) till the time of the end (12:8-9). Daniel admitted that there was much in his prophecy that he did not understand, yet it was intended that he share what was revealed to him with all whose faith is in the eventual glorious outcome.

Daniel's prophecy reminds us to be prepared for the soon return of Christ, when He shall reign and rule over all the world. Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed (II Thess. 2:3). The time will come when it seems that the wicked one has triumphed, Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders (2:9). Then shall that Wicked (Satan) be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume (slay) with the spirit of His mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of His coming. . . . Now our Lord Jesus Christ Himself . . . Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work (II Thess. 2:8,16-17).

Thought for Today:

Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms (James 5:13).
Christ Revealed:

As Him that liveth for ever (Dan. 12:7). As One of the Three expressed Persons of the Trinity, Jesus Christ always has been and always will be. Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily (Truly, truly), I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am (John 8:58). I am Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the Ending, saith the Lord (Jesus Christ), which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty (Rev. 1:8, also 4:.
Word Studies:

10:15 dumb =speechless; 11:11 choler =furious rage; 11:15 fenced cities =strongholds; 11:24 fattest =richest; forecast his devices =prepare his plans; 12:7 a time, times, and an half =3-1/2 years.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Sen. Robert Bennett (UT) and Rep. John Tierney (MA) • Country: Bhutan (2 million) in the eastern Himalayas of central Asia • Major languages: Tibetan and Nepalese dialects • Public worship, evangelism, and proselytization are illegal • 50-70% Buddhist; 24-45% Hindu; 5% Muslim; <1% Protestant/Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Ask God for daily direction (Ps. 48:14).
Memory Verse for the Week: Galatians 1:24

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Hosea 1 -- 6

Highlights:

The faithfulness of God versus people's unfaithfulness. Who wins (Hos. 1:2)? Redemption (2:14). Charges against a sinful nation (chap. 4). God withdraws (chap. 5). Repent (chap 6)! Reaping what you sow (8:7). Punishment will come (chap. 9).
Jeroboam II was king of the northern kingdom. The moral and spiritual level of the Israelites had become so low as to embrace sodomites (male temple prostitutes) . . . and . . . all the abominations (detestable practices) of the nations which the Lord cast out (of the promised land) (I Kings 14:24). Not one of the 19 kings of the northern kingdom of Israel attempted to lead the people to worship in Jerusalem as God had instructed. It was under these circumstances that the Word of the Lord . . . came unto Hosea . . . in the days of Jeroboam . . . king of Israel. . . . I will break the bow of Israel. . . . God said . . . I will no more have mercy upon the house of Israel (Hos. 1:1-6).

As a demonstration of His own relationship to a rebellious and wicked people, God had Hosea find and marry a prostitute. Her unfaithfulness to him pictured the nation of Israel and its unfaithfulness to God.

The Lord spoke against His people through Hosea because there is no truth, nor mercy, nor knowledge of God in the land. By swearing, and lying, and killing, and stealing, and committing adultery, they break out (with no restraint) (4:1-2). God revealed the consequences of Israel's sin, saying: Because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to Me: seeing thou hast forgotten the Law of thy God, I will also forget thy children (4:6).

Israel's kings as well as its political and religious leadership blatantly disregarded the importance of obedience to the Word of God. Jesus Christ set the example of how important the Old Testament should be to us. After 40 days of fasting, He was tempted of the Devil, who said: If Thou be (Since You are) the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. But He answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone (physical necessities), but by every Word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God (spiritual necessities) (Matt. 4:3-4; compare Deut. 8:3). By quoting this Old Testament Scripture, our Lord revealed the "Key to Victory" over satanic deceptions. We can have that same victory over Satan when we allow every Word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God to become a vital part of our daily lives (Matt. 4:4).

Thought for Today:

Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the Name of the Lord (James 5:14).
Christ Revealed:

Through Hosea's love for his unworthy, sinful wife (Hos. 3:1-5). Our Lord Jesus not only loved us while we were yet sinners, but He also died the death of shame for us on Calvary so that all He possessed might become ours (Rom. 5:8; 8:32; II Pet. 1:3-4). I will betroth thee unto Me for ever (Hos. 2:19).
Word Studies:

2:3 (first) set =expose; (second) set =eave; 3:4 ephod =sleeveless priestly outer garment; 4:16 slideth back =stubborn, obstinate. Israel has committed whoredom and sacrifice to idols.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Del. Donna Christian-Christensen (Virgin Islands) and Rep. Henry Cuellar (TX) • Country: Bolivia (8 million) in South America • Major languages: Spanish and Quechua • Religious freedom • 92% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant; 3% Baha'i • Prayer Suggestion: Praise the Lord; our God is the Mighty God (Ps. 50:1).
Memory Verse for the Week: II Thessalonians 1:4