Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Read Ephesians 4 – 6

Highlights:

As children of God, we need to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Eph. 4:3) to grow up into Him (4:15). We need the whole Armour of God (6:10-18).
We are living in an exceptionally stressful period of history. But it provides a wonderful opportunity to be a blessing in your church. Here's how: Pray for unity and harmony among believers with all lowliness and meekness, with long-suffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Eph. 4:2-3). You can be very successful through a heartfelt concern for those in your circle of friends. But having this love for the brethren, regardless of what church in which they worship our Lord, is an essential part of being a Christian (I John 4:20-21).

Oh, how important it is to overcome Satan's efforts to destroy the harmony and fellowship in a church through criticism, gossip, bitterness, backbiting, jealousy, spiritual pride, and aloofness! Just think! All these evils can be overcome by sharing loving-kindness and by uniting in earnest prayer for a spirit of unity to exist among the people of God. Jesus prayed: Sanctify them through Thy Truth: Thy Word is Truth. . . . I (Jesus). . . . pray . . . That they all may be one . . . in us (John 17:17-21).

More than 65 years ago, when I was a young pastor, a well-educated school teacher, who was the church treasurer, never missed an opportunity to openly criticize my grammar in every sermon. In fact, he brought his notepad and took notes to verify my mistakes. Every Sunday, I let his comments irritate me until I thought I should resign. One week the Lord reminded me as I read His Word: Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you (Luke 6:27-28). Since the same Holy Spirit dwells in all Christians, then contention, bitterness, and envy among believers becomes a very serious offense against Him. My "love" needed to be improved and my prayers needed to sincerely include my adversary. It was customary for me to ask an elder in the church to pray before my sermon. But the next Sunday, as I considered whom to ask to pray, I suddenly felt prompted of God to ask this treasurer (not an elder) to pray. It was transforming. He never again criticized my sermons, and we became dear friends. As Christians, we need to take a serious look at our responsibility.

Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you (Eph. 4:31-32).

Thought for Today:

I . . . beseech you that ye walk worth. . . Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Eph. 4:3).
Cross References:

For Eph. 4:8: See Ps. 68:18. Eph. 4:25: See Zech. 8:16. Eph. 4:26: See Ps. 4:4. Eph. 5:31: See Gen. 2:24. Eph. 6:2-3: See Ex. 20:12; Deut. 5:16.
Word Studies:

4:13 perfect (does not mean perfection), sincerely desiring to be obedient to His Word; 4:14 carried about . . . by the sleight, led astray by false doctrine; 4:16 compacted, knit together in true unity; 4:18 blindness, hardening of their heart with no regard to repent of their sins or see the need to be saved; 4:22 former conversation, old sinful way of living; 5:18 filled with, controlled by; 5:26 sanctify, set apart to serve the Lord; 6:5 in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ, with no ulterior motive but to sincerely desire to please Christ; 6:11 wiles, deception; 6:14 having your loins girt about with truth, continuing to read the Word of God in order to be familiar with the will of God.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Rep. Grace Napolitano (CA) • Country: Hong Kong (7 million) in eastern Asia • Major languages: Chinese and English • Limited religious freedom • 90% Chinese religions; 10% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for godly discernment to know His will (Ezek. 44:23).
Memory Verse for the Week: I Corinthians 13:1

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Philippians 1 – 4

Highlights:

Expressions of Christlike love. In lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves (Phil. 2:3). We are encouraged to Rejoice. . . . by prayer . . . with thanksgiving. . . . the peace of God (4:1-8).
In Europe, the Apostle Paul preached his first sermon near the city of Philippi. On the Sabbath, Paul went to a place of prayer by a river where Lydia, a businesswoman from Thyatira, was saved along with a few others (Acts 16:13-15).

Some time afterward, as we (Paul and Silas) went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying (fortune-telling, palm reading, crystal ball reading, etc.). . . . But Paul . . . said to the (evil) spirit, I command thee in the Name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour (16:16,18). And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas . . . And brought them to the magistrates (16:19-20). Although this possessed person was set free from demons, Paul and Silas were unmercifully beaten. And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison (16:22-23).

Later, in a Roman prison, Paul wrote to the Philippians: The things which happened unto me have fallen (turned) out . . . unto the furtherance of the Gospel (Phil. 1:12-13). Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world (2:14-15).

Paul wrote to these converts in Philippi a triumphant letter: Rejoice. . . . I rejoiced in the Lord greatly (4:4,10). Did he just get a promotion? Or were great crowds gathering to hear him preach? Did the Roman government decide to set him free? Can you believe that he was in a filthy, cold Roman dungeon with his wrists bound by chains waiting for his execution? His imprisonment in Rome gave him the opportunity to share the Good News about Jesus with the elite guards of the Roman Empire (4:22). As there was a change of guard three or four times a day, this was a great opportunity to tell them about Jesus the Messiah, who was foretold in the Hebrew Scriptures.

Circumstances will not defeat the believer who has experienced Christ as revealed in this Book. If Christ is truly our life then what an insult to His judgment for us to express discontentment because of suffering! For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake (Phil. 1:29).

Thought for Today:

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content (Phil. 4:11).
Cross References:

For Phil. 2:7: See Is. 42:1.
Word Studies:

1:7 meet, right; 1:8 my record, my witness; bowels, affections; 1:14 waxing confident, gaining confidence; 1:22 wot, know; 1:23 in a strait betwixt two, hard pressed between the two; 1:28 an evident token of perdition, evidence of impending destruction; 2:3 vainglory, boasting, empty conceit; 2:22 the proof of him, his trials have proven his sincerity; 3:1 not grievous, I never get tired of telling you; 3:2 dogs, Judaizers, antagonists, legalists; 3:20 conversation, citizenship; 4:6 Be careful for nothing, Don't be anxious; don't worry; 4:14 communicate with, express your concern, share; 4:18 I have all, I am fully satisfied; 4:22 chiefly, especially.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Jack Schatz • Staff: Dan Murton • Government Official: Rep. Rodney Alexander (LA) • Country: Hungary (10.1 million) in east-central Europe • Major language: Hungarian • New freedom has opened the door to evangelism and Bible distribution • 61.7% Roman Catholic; 24.4% Protestant; 12.5% non-Religious/Other; .8% Jewish; .3% Orthodox; .2% Marginal; .1% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Pray daily to your Father in heaven (Dan. 6:10).
Memory Verse for the Week: I Corinthians 13:1

[Judy Harder]

Read Philippians 1 – 4

Highlights:

Expressions of Christlike love. In lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves (Phil. 2:3). We are encouraged to Rejoice. . . . by prayer . . . with thanksgiving. . . . the peace of God (4:1-8).
In Europe, the Apostle Paul preached his first sermon near the city of Philippi. On the Sabbath, Paul went to a place of prayer by a river where Lydia, a businesswoman from Thyatira, was saved along with a few others (Acts 16:13-15).

Some time afterward, as we (Paul and Silas) went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying (fortune-telling, palm reading, crystal ball reading, etc.). . . . But Paul . . . said to the (evil) spirit, I command thee in the Name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour (16:16,18). And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas . . . And brought them to the magistrates (16:19-20). Although this possessed person was set free from demons, Paul and Silas were unmercifully beaten. And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison (16:22-23).

Later, in a Roman prison, Paul wrote to the Philippians: The things which happened unto me have fallen (turned) out . . . unto the furtherance of the Gospel (Phil. 1:12-13). Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world (2:14-15).

Paul wrote to these converts in Philippi a triumphant letter: Rejoice. . . . I rejoiced in the Lord greatly (4:4,10). Did he just get a promotion? Or were great crowds gathering to hear him preach? Did the Roman government decide to set him free? Can you believe that he was in a filthy, cold Roman dungeon with his wrists bound by chains waiting for his execution? His imprisonment in Rome gave him the opportunity to share the Good News about Jesus with the elite guards of the Roman Empire (4:22). As there was a change of guard three or four times a day, this was a great opportunity to tell them about Jesus the Messiah, who was foretold in the Hebrew Scriptures.

Circumstances will not defeat the believer who has experienced Christ as revealed in this Book. If Christ is truly our life then what an insult to His judgment for us to express discontentment because of suffering! For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake (Phil. 1:29).

Thought for Today:

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content (Phil. 4:11).
Cross References:

For Phil. 2:7: See Is. 42:1.
Word Studies:

1:7 meet, right; 1:8 my record, my witness; bowels, affections; 1:14 waxing confident, gaining confidence; 1:22 wot, know; 1:23 in a strait betwixt two, hard pressed between the two; 1:28 an evident token of perdition, evidence of impending destruction; 2:3 vainglory, boasting, empty conceit; 2:22 the proof of him, his trials have proven his sincerity; 3:1 not grievous, I never get tired of telling you; 3:2 dogs, Judaizers, antagonists, legalists; 3:20 conversation, citizenship; 4:6 Be careful for nothing, Don't be anxious; don't worry; 4:14 communicate with, express your concern, share; 4:18 I have all, I am fully satisfied; 4:22 chiefly, especially.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Jack Schatz • Staff: Dan Murton • Government Official: Rep. Rodney Alexander (LA) • Country: Hungary (10.1 million) in east-central Europe • Major language: Hungarian • New freedom has opened the door to evangelism and Bible distribution • 61.7% Roman Catholic; 24.4% Protestant; 12.5% non-Religious/Other; .8% Jewish; .3% Orthodox; .2% Marginal; .1% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Pray daily to your Father in heaven (Dan. 6:10).
Memory Verse for the Week: I Corinthians 13:1

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Colossians 1 – 4

Highlights:

Christ is Supreme (Col. 1:15-20). Former enemies now friends (1:21-22). Paul instructed to reveal the mystery which hath been hid from . . . generations (1:26). Dead in . . . sins, alive in Christ (chap. 2). Live the new life in Christ (3:1-17). What is a Christian household (3:18-25)? We are encouraged to: Continue in prayer (4:1-4).
As Christians, we frequently face conflict with forces that are too strong for our human weaknesses. But God has made known to us that there is no limit to any Christian who reads the Bible, through which understanding, strength, and endurance are made available by the Holy Spirit. Christ, through His Word, will reveal and meet all of our spiritual needs.

To help us grasp the importance of this, Paul wrote: We . . . desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet (qualified) to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints (believers) (Col. 1:9-12). Notice how often the word all is used — all wisdom . . . all pleasing . . . all might . . . all patience.

God desires that we be led by the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and strengthened with His glorious power. The two essential keys to accomplishing this are prayer and the Word of God. As we read all of His Word with a desire to please Him in all things, we will be strengthened with His glorious power (Acts 4:29-31).

We need to prayerfully continue reading the Word of God. Then the Holy Spirit will guide us into a deeper revelation of His will and His plan for our lives. Just think, we have available all we need to be filled with the knowledge of His will (Col. 1:9) that is stored up in the Bible! Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in Him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in Him (2:8-10). This is not a mere theory but the infallible truth of His eternal Word; there is no other source of spiritual discernment!

Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord (Col. 3:16).

Thought for Today:

The psalmist wrote: Thy Word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee (Ps. 119:11).
Cross References:

For Col. 2:11: See Deut. 10:16. Col. 3:23: See Eccl. 9:10. Col. 4:6: See Eccl. 10:12.
Word Studies:

1:12 meet, sufficient; 1:13 translated, transferred; 1:23 settled, firmly grounded; 2:4 beguile, deceive; 2:23 will worship, self-inspired efforts at worship; 3:5 Mortify, Treat as dead; concupiscence, uncontrolled desire for what is forbidden, especially sexual immorality; 3:22 singleness of heart, sincerity, honesty, not hypocritical or self-seeking; fearing God, out of reverence for your Lord; 4:1 give . . . that which is just and equal, do what is right and fair.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Iva Ann McElroy (Dr. John A. Hash's Mother) • Government Official: Sec. Ray LaHood (Dept. of Transportation) and Gov. Andrew Cuomo (NY) • Country: Iceland (272,000) at the northern end of the Atlantic • Major language: Icelandic • Religious freedom • 94% Protestant; 6% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Confess your sins to the Lord; He is merciful and forgiving (Dan. 9:4-9).
Memory Verse for the Week: I Corinthians 13:1

[Judy Harder]

Read II Thessalonians 1 – 3

Highlights:

Jesus is coming! Prepare to meet your Creator (II Thess. 1:3-12; Col. 1:13-16). Knowing your Bible is of utmost importance to recognize the difference between false claims and true (II Thess. 2:2-12). Stand firm; our comfort, hope, and strength are in the Lord (2:16-17). Occupy until Jesus comes (Luke 19:13). This means doing our Father's business (2:49; II Thess. 3:6-15).
There is a growing and earnest worldwide expectation by believers of our Lord's soon return. It is indeed Good News — to all who love Him and sorrow over the chaos and suffering of a world that is ruined by sin — that He shall come to be glorified in His saints (II Thess. 1:10).

Many people have their hearts set on worldly activities with little, if any, concern that they are living in rebellion against their Creator. That is why we must share the peace of God, which passeth all understanding (Phil. 4:7). Just think! Those in Christ will hear Him say: Come . . . inherit the Kingdom prepared for you (Matt. 25:34-40). But all who refuse to follow Christ will hear Him say: Depart from Me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels (25:41-46). It was Jesus Himself who revealed the final destination of all who refuse to allow Him to rule their lives. Hell is a matter of choice. One chooses in this life to be present with God in heaven or to ignore Christ who died to save them from eternal hell. When Jesus returns, everyone's attention will focus on Him! He will be (1) glorified in His saints and (2) admired (adored) in all them that believe (II Thess. 1:10). What a future for each of us who has chosen to live for Jesus!

The coming judgment seems written so large in human events that no one should mistake or ignore it. Yet, the secular mind is unable to see the invisible hand of the Almighty in the chaos of world affairs. The vast majority of mankind goes blindly onward, unconcerned as to the imminence of judgment. Apart from the Lord Jesus Christ, there can be nothing but a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries (Heb. 10:27).

There are two defining events that everyone in the world must face: death, and the coming of Jesus (John 5:22-29; II Cor. 5:10). To you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: (and) Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of His power; When He shall come to be glorified in His saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (II Thess 1:7-10).

Thought for Today:

Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy (Jude 1:24).
Cross References:

For II Thess. 1:8 See Is. 1:28. II Thess. 2:3: See Dan. 7:25. II Thess. 2:4: See Ezek. 28:2.
Word Studies:

1:3 meet, fitting, right; 2:17 stablish, strengthen, make firm; 3:7 disorderly, irresponsibly.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Thursday Morning Prayer • Staff: Mary Kay Wagner • Government Official: Rep. Raul Labrador (ID) • Country: Indonesia (211.8 million) five large and 13,662 lesser islands in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Bahasa Indonesian (modified form of Malay) and English • Growing pressure from Muslim leaders to limit advances of Christianity by not renewing many of the missionaries' permits to stay in the country • 83% Muslim; 9% Protestant; 4% Catholic; 2% Hindu; 1% Buddhist; 1% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Seek the Lord's forgiveness with a repentant heart, knowing that God will graciously receive you (Hos. 14:1-2).
Memory Verse for the Week: I Corinthians 13:1

[Judy Harder]

Read I Timothy 1 – 6

Highlights:

Truth. All Christians need to take this seriously (I Tim. 1:8-10). There is One God, and One Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus (2:5). We are the Church of the Living God (3:15). You can't go wrong when you keep this Commandment without spot (6:14).
As the athlete disciplines his body to develop better physical endurance and alertness, the believer is urged to discipline himself daily with a definite time set aside to be alone with God to pray and read His Word. In our daily study of and meditation on the Scriptures, we need to allow the Holy Spirit to conform our lives to the instructions of the Word of God.

In my brief lifetime of about 90 years, many believers have drifted away from the godly principles of the Bible. In this day of materialism it is not even popular to remind believers to follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord (Heb. 12:14), and that bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come (I Tim. 4:.

Paul writes: Godliness with contentment is great gain (6:6). Godliness means much more than obeying a series of laws and regulations. It begins when we commit our lives to Jesus and He imparts His nature to us. Then, as we desire the sincere milk of the Word (I Pet. 2:2), we grow in godliness and are drawn away from the world and into a personal fellowship with Him. We choose to either discipline ourselves to submit to His will or to remain spiritually powerless and vulnerable to Satan's deceptions. Bible reading and meditation on it provide spiritual food. They are as important to our spiritual life as eating meals is to our physical well-being.

Our lives will follow either the Holy Spirit or self and the standards of the world. We cannot walk on two paths. There is just one true safeguard against deception — it is getting to know all the Word of God. Paul also encouraged Timothy to be a good minister (servant) of Jesus Christ (I Tim. 4:6), to remain loyal to Christ and His authoritative Word (6:3-4), and to fight the good fight of faith (6:12). God had entrusted the Gospel to Paul (1:11), and Paul was faithful to pass it along to Timothy (1:18-19; 6:20), as well as to the children of God in this day.

Ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ (I Pet. 1:6-7).

Thought for Today:

That I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made comformable unto His death (Phil. 3:10).
Cross Reference:

For I Tim. 5:18: See Deut. 25:4.
Word Studies:

1:5 unfeigned, genuine; without hypocrisy; 1:10 menstealers, kidnappers, people who enslave (control) others for their own evil purposes; 2:9 shamefacedness, modest behavior, reverence; 2:12 usurp authority, be domineering; 3:2 husband of one wife, married only once until parted by death; vigilant, disciplined, self-controlled: 3:8 greedy of filthy lucre, craving wealth; 3:13 purchase to themselves a good degree, gain a good reputation; 5:11 wax wanton against Christ, allow their passions to draw them away from Christ; 6:4 questions and strifes of words, controversial, contentious speculations, attacking the authority and reliability of Scripture.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Clarence Rathbone • Government Officials: Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (NY) and Rep. Pete Olson (TX) • Country: Iran (66.2 million) in southwestern Asia • Major languages: Farsi and Turki • Hostile to all Christian activity • 87% Shi'a; 12% Sunni; .5% Baha'i; .4% Christian; .03% Jewish; .04% Parsi (Zoroastrian); .03% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Fast, sanctify yourself, and unite in prayer with others as you cry unto the Lord (Joel 1:14).
Memory Verse for the Week: I Corinthians 13:1

[Judy Harder]

Read II Timothy 1 – 4

Highlights:

Be not thou . . . ashamed of the testimony of our Lord . . . but be thou (a faithful) partaker of the afflictions of the Gospel (II Tim. 1:. Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness (2:22). Men shall be . . . covetous . . . more than lovers of God (3:2,4). All the Bible is given as our Guide to help us gain the best God has for our lives (3:16-17).
When Paul wrote this Epistle, he knew that his life would soon end (II Tim 4:6-8), and he was deeply concerned that Timothy, his son in the faith (I Tim. 1:2), remain faithful to God. Paul knew that the Scriptures would prepare Timothy to carry out the Lord's commands (II Tim. 2:3).

The Book of II Timothy points out the all-sufficiency of the Scriptures — through the indwelling Holy Spirit — to reveal the answers to all of life's problems. Because of this, it emphasizes the importance of thoroughly studying all the Bible. As a good soldier of Jesus Christ, Timothy should expect trials and sufferings (2:3). Paul knew that for Timothy to remain faithful and strong in the midst of certain difficulties, he would need to diligently study the Word of God to gain spiritual wisdom.

The Apostle Paul left no room for doubt as to his one source of strength and guidance when he wrote: Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth (2:15). How emphatic! Study . . . rightly dividing the Word of Truth. We invest time, discipline, and effort in pursuing life's vocation. But our first commitment should be to God — to study His Word, that we may gain His approval.

We also must have integrity and sincerity to rightly . . . (divide) the Word so that our personal life may be brought into harmony with the will of God. Continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them . . . thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus (3:14-15).

The power of God is found in the Holy Scriptures. Those who choose to read through the Bible as God arranged it gain a fuller revelation of every subject. It is of utmost importance to read all of it to obtain a fuller understanding of its doctrines.

Paul also emphasized that all Scripture is necessary in order for Christians to be fully prepared to fulfill the will of God in their lives when he wrote: All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly (thoroughly) furnished unto all good works (II Tim. 3:16-17).

Thought for Today:

Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus (II Tim. 2:1).
Cross Reference:

For II Tim. 2:19: See Num. 16:5; also Nah. 1:7.
Word Studies:

2:4 entangleth himself, becomes involved; 2:23 gender strifes, create or initiate quarrels or arguments; 3:3 incontinent, without self-control; 4:15 be thou ware, be aware, be on guard.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Sen. John Boozman (AR), Rep. Austin Scott (GA), and Rep. Luis Gutierrez (IL) • Country: Iraq (22 million) in southern Asia • Major languages: Arabic and Kurdish • Fierce harassment of non-Muslims • 96% Muslim; 3% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: The promises of God should be an encouragement to you to seek God in prayer (Amos 5:4,6).
Memory Verse for the Week: I Corinthians 13:1

 

[Judy Harder]

             
Read Titus 1 – Philemon 1

Highlights:

Witness and live your faith with enthusiasm (Titus chapters 1—2). Qualifications of elders and bishops (1:5-9). Sound doctrine . . . (for) the aged men. . . . The aged women. . . . Young men. . . . (and the) servants (2:1-9). The coming of our great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ (2:13-14). Speak evil of no man . . . but (be) gentle (3:2). A beautiful portrayal of a sinner facing God with Christ as Intercessor (Philem. 1:1-25).
Anarchy (chaos, lawlessness) is Satan-inspired; we are to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work (Titus 3:1).

Christians are not at liberty to choose which laws to obey and which to disobey. Peter was led of God to write: Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God (I Pet. 2:13-15). As long as the laws are in effect and operative, we are taught to obey them with one exception.

When Peter and the other apostles were commanded by religious authorities not to tell others that Jesus is the Messiah-Savior of the world, they responded as faithful Christians should, saying: We ought to obey God rather than men (Acts 5:29). Never did they resort to violence, rioting, or hatred against those who attempted to silence them, nor did they ignore the law of the land. They taught the Truth and often received a prison sentence or even death for their loyalty to God who is above all rulers.

Christians should faithfully declare the truth — even when it could mean imprisonment or death. It is Satan who instigates violence and rebellion or ignoring the laws. Failure to report or pay taxes or to obey any other disagreeable law is against the teachings of the Bible. Even though Jesus, as the Son of God, should have been exempt from paying a tax (Matt. 17:24-26), He said to Peter: Lest we should offend them . . . find a piece of money . . . and give unto them for Me and thee (17:27).

The Apostle Paul also was led by the Holy Spirit to emphasize the responsibility of Christians to be law-abiding citizens: For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil (Rom. 13:3-4).

Thought for Today:

And Jesus answering said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's (Mark 12:17).
Cross References:

For Titus 1:2: See Num. 23:19.
Word Studies:

Titus 1:14 Jewish fables, myths; 2:10 purloining, stealing, even small things; Philemon 1:8 enjoin thee that which is convenient, order you to do that which is proper; 1:12 mine own bowels, out of my very heart.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Henry Rogers • Government Officials: Sen. Max Baucus (MT), Sen. John Kerry (MA), and Rep. Mike Simpson (ID) • Country: Ireland (3.7 million) off the coast of western Europe • Major languages: English and Irish (Gaelic) • Religious freedom • 92% Catholic; 3.7% Anglican; 1% Other Protestant; .2% Muslim; .1% Jewish; 2% Other; 1% None • Prayer Suggestion: Pray when distressed and afflicted (Jon. 2:2).
Memory Verse for the Week: I Corinthians 13:2

[Judy Harder]

Read Hebrews 1 – 4

Highlights:

Jesus, the Son and Heir, is greater than the angels (Heb. chap. 1). Jesus, the Man (2:17; 3:6), overcame all temptations (4:15). Jesus is greater than Moses (chap. 3). Jesus, the Word, cuts deeply and truly (4:12; see John 1:1-5,14). Jesus provides His mercy and grace every day (Heb. 4:16).
The superiority of Christ is the theme of the Book of Hebrews. He is far superior to the prophets, the priests, Moses, and the Law, as well as angels. For unto which of the angels said He (God) at any time, Thou art My Son (Heb. 1:5)? Although angels are messengers of God, Jesus Christ — the Son of God — is superior though born in a Bethlehem manger.

The Lord Jesus Christ is also superior to the high priest. Seeing then that we have a great High Priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession (4:14).

Christ cleansed us from our sins by His blood; He now sits at the right hand of God as our High Priest: Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them (7:25). The Covenant of God with the Israelites centered upon the Ten Commandments that were on tables of stone, written with the finger of God (Ex. 31:18); but the Covenant of Christ with His born-again believers is written upon our hearts (Heb. 8:10).

The Old Covenant was temporary, but the Covenant of Christ is eternal (13:20). For believers to worship God under the Old Covenant, it was necessary for the blood of many animals to be offered daily. But the New Covenant required only one sacrifice — Christ's own blood once for all (10:1-29).

The word better is one of the key words in the Book of Hebrews. We have a better Covenant (8:6), better promises (8:6), a better hope (7:19), and a better . . . substance (10:34).

This Book reveals that the power to live the victorious Christian life is Jesus Christ. As the Living Word of God, He is all-wise and all-knowing. The Holy Spirit uses the Bible as our all-sufficient source of strength, enabling us to live in fellowship with Him.

Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into His rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. . . . For the Word of God is quick (full of life), and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. . . . Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need (Heb. 4:1,12,16).

Thought for Today:

Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us (Eph. 3:20).
Cross References:

For Heb. 1:3: See Ps. 110:1. Heb. 1:5: See Ps. 2:7; II Sam. 7:14. Heb. 1:7: See Ps. 104:4. Heb. 1:8-9: See Ps. 45:6-7. Heb. 1:10-12: See Ps. 102:25-27. Heb. 1:13: See Ps. 110:1. Heb. 2:6-8: See Ps. 8:4-6. Heb. 2:12: See Ps. 22:22. Heb. 2:13: See Is. 8:18. Heb. 3:7-11: See Ps. 95:7-11. Heb. 4:3: See Ps. 95:11. Heb. 4:4: See Gen. 2:2.
Word Studies:

Heb. 2:17 behoved, was necessary for, was imperative for; 4:8 Jesus, Joshua (not the Lord Jesus Christ). Jesus is the Greek word of the Hebrew word Joshua. Joshua could not provide complete peace in their "promised land" because of their unbelief. Israelites in that day had to look forward (in time) to heaven for their perfect peace, just as Christians do today.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mrs. Elaine Merrell • Staff: Barbara Bivens • Government Official: Rep. Blake Farenthold (TX), and Sec. Tom Vilsack (Dept. of Agriculture) • Country: Israel (6.1 million) in the Middle East • Major languages: Hebrew and Arabic • Witnessing to Jews about Christ the Messiah is actively discouraged • 80.2% Jewish (mostly secular); 14.6% Muslim (largely Sunni); 2.1% Christian; 1.6% Druze; 1.5% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Seek the Lord when in despair; He is your deliverer (Jon. 2:5-6).
Memory Verse for the Week: I Corinthians 13:2

[Judy Harder]

Read Hebrews 5 – 7

Highlights:

Jesus was chosen by God to be our High Priest (Heb. 5:1-10). He (Jesus) became the Author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him (5:9; Rom. 6:23).
In Israel, there was a vast difference between the high priest and the other priests. Only the high priest was permitted annually to enter the Holy of Holies and into the very presence of God. He alone bore on his forehead the golden crown with the words: Holiness to the Lord (Ex. 28:36-38), and only he could offer sacrifices for the sins of the nation and intercede on the annual Day of Atonement.

In the Old Testament, a sinless animal was substituted for an Israelite and was slain in his place for his sin. Thus, the devout Jew was continually reminded that it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul (Lev. 17:11). But the need for animal sacrifices ceased on the day Jesus, the sinless Son of God, died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins as the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world (John 1:29). He (also) became the Author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him (Heb. 5:9).

How thankful we are that mercy is an attribute of God, for it is one of our greatest daily needs! Mercy is an expression of His willingness to forgive sinners and deliver them from eternal hell. Mercy is a practical demonstration of love and compassion. But, because God is holy, He must also enforce the penalty for sin without respect of persons (I Pet. 1:17), and the wages of sin is death (Rom. 6:23).

Under the Levitical priesthood, it was emphasized many times that God is merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and Truth, Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin (Ex. 34:6-7). How much more we can be assured of the mercy of God through Christ, our exalted Lord, because He makes intercession for us (Heb. 7:25; 9:24)!

Our highest privilege is to press on to be like Him and treasure the will of God as the most precious thing in our lives. Too often our trouble is not that we do not know the will of God but, rather, that we choose our will instead of His though He makes it clear.

Christ's soon return should be our strongest motivation to do the Savior's will. Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works (Titus 2:13-14).

Thought for Today:

Ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's (I Cor. 6:20).
Cross References:

For Heb. 5:5: See Ps. 2:7. Heb. 5:6: See Ps. 110:4. Heb. 6:14: See Gen. 22:17.
Word Studies:

6:17 immutability of His counsel, unchangeableness of His will and purpose.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Ilene Wallace • Government Official: Rep. Anna Eshoo (CA) • Country: Italy (58 million) in southern Europe • Major languages: Italian and German • Religious freedom • 81% Roman Catholic; .4% Protestant; .1% Eastern Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Trust in the Lord and wait upon Him in your prayers, for He will hear you (Mic. 7:7).
Memory Verse for the Week: I Corinthians 13:2




Read Hebrews 8 – 10

Highlights:

Jesus is seated with highest honor — at the right hand of God (Heb. 8:1-2). Jesus Christ is the Mediator of a better Covenant, which was established upon better promises (8:6). For this is the Covenant that I will make . . . I will put My Laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts (8:10). The just shall live by faith (10:38).
The Old Testament's God-ordained Aaronic priesthood, animal sacrifices, and Temple ceremonies were all symbolic of Christ and were fulfilled in Him. For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the Living God (Heb. 9:13-14)? He was the One True Sacrifice and is the One Eternal High Priest.

God required the Old Testament Israelites to make sacrifices and offerings for sin. But no sacrifice or offering could truly satisfy God or restore fellowship between God and man because they were only temporary coverings for sin. These sacrifices and offerings were only symbolic of Christ who was to come. Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the Book it is written of Me,) to do Thy will, O God. Above when He said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin Thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the Law; Then said He, Lo, I come to do Thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that He may establish the second (10:7-9).

Christ's words, Lo, I come to do Thy will, O God, expressed His willingness to do everything necessary to carry out the plan of God to redeem lost mankind. For by one offering He hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. . . . This is the Covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put My Laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them (10:14,16).

When we are living to please our Lord, we will enjoy the peace of God, which passeth all understanding (Phil. 4:7) — regardless of circumstances. We praise the Lord for the privilege of obeying Him with all our hearts!

Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for He is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching (Heb. 10:23-25).

Thought for Today:

Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus (II Tim. 2:1).
Cross References:

For Heb. 8:5: See Ex. 25:40. Heb. 8:8-12: See Jer. 31:31-34. Heb. 9:20-21: See Ex. 24:8. Heb. 10:5-7: See Ps. 40:6-8. Heb. 10:12-13: See Ps. 110:1. Heb. 10:16-17: See Jer. 31:33-34. Heb. 10:30: See Deut. 32:35-36. Heb. 10:37-38: See Hab. 2:3-4.
Word Studies:

8:10 New Covenant, I will . . . write them in their hearts, in contrast to the Old Covenant — written in stone; 9:2 candlestick, lampstand; 10:33 gazingstock, object of public ridicule; 10:36 patience, steadfast endurance, trust; 10:39 perdition, state of being eternally lost.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mrs. Shirley Grimm • Staff: Rita Guerra • Government Official: Rep. Sandy Adams (FL) and Rep. Nan Hayworth (NY) • Country: Jamaica (3 million) in the West Indies • Major languages: English and Creole • Religious freedom • 78% Protestant; 10% Roman Catholic; 7% Afro-American spiritist • Prayer Suggestion: Rejoice over and pray for those who share the Good News (Nah. 1:15).
Memory Verse for the Week: I Corinthians 13:2