Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Read Malachi 1 -- 4

Highlights:

Casual attitude toward the Lord and worship. Their worship is sloppy and the priests neglect the commands of God. Unworthy sacrifices indicate no honor or respect (Mal. 1:7-10,12-14). The Messiah, worthy of pure offerings (3:2-3). Repent (3:6-9). Support the work of the Lord (3:10-12). Get ready! Judgment cometh (4:1-6)!
The first generation of Israelites that returned to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel to rebuild the Temple had died, and the following generations had lost sight of the purpose God had for them as His people. Malachi declared that God may not always be fully understood, but He is questioned only by those who reject or neglect His Word, saying: If ye will not hear, and if ye will not lay it to heart . . . saith the Lord of hosts, I will even send a curse upon you (Mal. 2:2).

Malachi left no room for excuses when he declared that the Israelites were thieves. He boldly asked: Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed Me. . . . In tithes and offerings (3:. He then pronounced the inevitable judgment of God: Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed Me, even this whole nation (3:9).

The people were cursed with a curse because the tithes belonged to God for the spiritual needs of the people and the support of the priesthood. They had ignored the command to honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase (Prov. 3:9; Ex. 22:29; II Chr. 31:5).

Returning one-tenth of all our increase (income) to God expresses our faith that all we are and all we have belong to the Lord, and, as caretakers, we return to Him a portion acknowledging that. Tithing demonstrates our love and gratitude to Him.

More than 500 years before the Law was given, tithing was demonstrated by Abraham, the father of all them that believe (Rom. 4:11), who brought a tenth of everything to the priest of the Most High God (Gen. 14:18). When we refuse to return unto God the things that are God's (Matt. 22:21), we keep for ourselves what God has said is for proclaiming the Gospel of Christ. Is it greed, selfishness, indifference, or just a stubborn refusal to be obedient to what the Word of God clearly states? The seriousness of this sin can be seen in the severity of the famine that Israel was experiencing: Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed Me (Mal. 3:9).

The Christian is to give not grudgingly, or of necessity (under compulsion): for God loveth a cheerful giver (II Cor. 9:7).

Thought for Today:

But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer (I Pet. 4:7).
Christ Revealed:

The Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to His Temple (Mal. 3:1). Jesus went into the Temple. . . . saying . . . My House shall be called . . . the House of prayer (Mark 11:15-17).
Word Studies:

1:6 fear reverence, willing obedience; 1:13 snuffed at sneered, lightly esteemed, despised, scorned; 2:12 The Lord will cut off . . . the master (who hath married the daughter of a strange god — see 2:11) and the scholar the priest and the layman will be rejected; 3:13 Your words have been stout against Me your attitude has been harsh, strong against Me.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Dr. John A. Hash • Staff: Ilene Wallace • Government Official: Sen. Blanche Lincoln (AR) • Country: Cape Verde (405,000) 15 islands in the Atlantic Ocean, 390 miles off the coast of Africa • Major languages: Portuguese and Crioulo • Religious freedom • 91% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Rely upon the Lord at all times; He is your refuge (Ps. 62:.
Memory Verse for the Week: II Timothy 2:12

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 1 -- 3

Highlights:

Jesus fulfills all prophecy concerning the promised Messiah: a descendant of Abraham and of David (Matt. 1:1-16), and His Miraculous birth (1:18-25). Herod is troubled by the news of Wise Men (2:1-3). The enemy attempts to destroy God's Plan of Salvation (2:13-18).
The birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as His mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost (Matt. 1:18).

The amazing wise men from the east, perhaps from Babylon then, were led by a star to Jerusalem, where they inquired: Where is He that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen His star in the east, and are come to worship Him (2:1-2). It is probable that these men had studied the prophecies of Daniel who, during the captivity, gave a detailed explanation of the number of years before the Messiah would be born (Dan. 9:25-26).

It must have taken the wise men some length of time after the birth of Christ to arrive in Bethlehem, since we read: When they were come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down, and worshipped Him (Matt. 2:11). Finding the prophesied King in the house as a young Child rather than as a babe in the manger indicates several months or more had passed after the birth of Jesus during which He had grown out of infancy.

The wise men had come to worship Him (2:2). As a part of their worship they presented to Him three gifts (2:11). First, they offered gold, a fitting gift for the King of kings, and Lord of lords (I Timothy 6:15). Then, they offered frankincense, a sweet perfume used on the Altar of Incense in the Temple, symbolic of prayer ascending to God. It was an appropriate gift for a priest, for this King would become our High Priest (Heb. 4:14), who also maketh intercession for us (Rom. 8:34) before God. They also offered myrrh, which signified in advance that He was destined to die; myrrh was frequently used as a burial spice (John 19:39).

In the providence of God, their gifts also provided adequate resources for Joseph and Mary's journey and stay in Egypt, where they remained until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called My Son (Matthew 2:15; Hosea 11:1). Then they dwelt in the city called Nazareth where Jesus lived until He was about 30 years old (Matthew 2:23; Luke 3:23).

Thought for Today:

Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope (Ps 16:9).
Word Studies:

1:18 espoused engaged; came together had physical relations, she was a virgin; 2:16 mocked of received by; coasts surrounding regions; 3:8 fruits meet for repentance life that confirms your change of heart; 3:15 Suffer it to be allow it to be; fulfil all righteousness to all that God requires.
Cross References:

For Matt. 1:23: See Is. 7:14. Matt. 2:6: See Micah 5:2. Matt. 2:15: See Hos. 11:1. Matt. 2:18: See Jer. 31:15. Matt. 3:3: See Is. 40:3.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for our Military worldwide • International Broadcasts for October sponsored by Mary Hoffmeyer; in honor of Rick Hash • Staff: Dr. John A. Hash • Government Official: Rep. Devin Nunes (CA) • Country: Central African Republic (3 million) in the center of the African continent • Major languages: French and Sangho • Religious freedom • 47% Protestant; 34% Roman Catholic; 12% animist; 3% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Praise the Lord for His love (Ps. 63:3).
Memory Verse for the Week: II Timothy 2:12

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 4 -- 6

Highlights:

Jesus tempted of the Devil (Matt. 4:1-11). Christians are heirs of the Kingdom of God. The Sermon on the Mount describes the character of the children of God because of the new birth nature of God which they receive and the True Spiritual Food: Every Word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God (4:4; Deut. 8:3) when Christ becomes Savior and Lord of their lives (Matt. 5:13-6:34). Don't miss how to pray and fast (6:5-18).
Following His baptism in the Jordan River, Jesus was led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the Devil (Matt. 4:1). First, the Devil suggested an easy, self-serving way in which Jesus might satisfy His hunger (appealing to the lust of the flesh). But Jesus, knowing that submission to the will of God must be the basis for all decisions, quoted Scripture saying: It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God (4:7). The word tempt carries the thought of "try or prove." Such testing is a necessary part of our lives for it reveals our true character. When He had fasted forty days and forty nights, He was afterward an hungred. And when the tempter came to Him, he said, If ( or Since) Thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread (Matt. 4:2-3). The abilities God has bestowed upon us are meant to be used in such a way that He receives all the honor and praise.

Satan's second temptation came in the Holy City . . . on a pinnacle of the Temple (4:5). Satan suggested that Jesus should leap down into the midst of the people and present Himself as a superhuman Messiah (appealing to the pride of life). Satan quoted Scripture to support this temptation, saying: He shall give His angels charge concerning Thee. . . lest at any time Thou dash Thy foot against a stone (4:6; Ps. 91:11-12). The Devil frequently appears religious by quoting Scripture, but only the portions which fit his scheme. Jesus responded: Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve (Matt. 4:10).

In Satan's final attempt to seduce Jesus to sin, he sheweth Him all the kingdoms of the world . . . And saith . . . All these things will I give Thee, if Thou wilt fall down and worship me (4:8-9). The Devil suggested an easy way by which Jesus might avoid all the pain and suffering of the cross and yet rule all the kingdoms of the world. Even one exception would make Jesus a sinner. When we allow for one exception, it usually leads to another, etc. From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. . . . He saith unto them, Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men (4:17,19).

Thought for Today:

Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord (Ps. 31:24).
Word Studies:

5:13 his savour its usefulness; 5:18 one jot or one tittle is the dot on the letter "i" or the cross of a "t"; 5:22 say . . . Raca worthless one, pour contempt; 5:29 offend thee causes you to sin; 5:33 forswear swear falsely, break an oath; 5:46 publicans Jewish tax collectors, worldly minded; 6:19 corrupt take money worthless; 6:22 single free from deceit; 6:23 evil selfish, sinful; 6:24 mammon material things.
Cross References:

For Matt. 4:4: See Deut. 8:3. Matt. 4:6: See Ps. 91: 11-12. Matt. 4:7: See Deut. 6:16. Matt. 4:10: See Deut. 6:13-14. Matt. 4:15-16: See Is. 9:1-2. Matt. 5:21: See Ex. 20:13. Matt. 5:27: See Ex. 20:14. Matt. 5:31: See Deut. 24:1. Matt. 5:33: See Num. 30:2. Matt. 5:38: See Ex. 21:24. Matt. 5:43: See Lev. 19:18.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Hank Johnson (GA) and Rep. Mark Schauer (MI) • Country: Chad (7 million) in north-central Africa • Major languages: French and Arabic • Limited religious freedom • 35% Muslim; 31% animist; 11% Protestant; 5% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Lift up your hands in surrender and praise as you pray (Ps. 63:4).
Memory Verse for the Week: II Timothy 2:12

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 7 -- 9

Highlights:

Jesus continues teaching the basic principles of how Christians conduct themselves (Matt. chap. 7). Don't miss The Golden Rule and the narrow gate (7:12-14). Jesus emphasizes the power of faith (chap. 8 — 9). Like sheep, people need a shepherd. The harvest is great, the labourers are few (9:36-38).
Jesus warned: Beware of false prophets . . . in sheep's clothing (Matt. 7:15). Without a doubt, eternal life is a free gift from God — not of works, lest any man should boast (Eph. 2:9). But, it is also true that faith without works is dead (James 2:20). Teaching is false when it offers eternal life without discipleship as a qualification for attaining heaven. To clarify one difference between true prophets and false prophets, our Lord said: Not every one that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the Kingdom of Heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven (Matt. 7:21). However, the evidence of being a true Christian is not proved by doing great things; it is being obedient to the Lord Jesus Christ.

Our Lord spoke a parable: Whosoever heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them, I will liken (compare) him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock . . . and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened (compared) unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand . . . and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it (7:24-27).

Obedience is twofold: First, one heareth these sayings of Mine, and then one acts on these sayings of Mine. The wise and the foolish are both giving much thought and labor to their activities — one to laying up treasures in heaven, but the other to achieving human goals. When our desire is to please Christ, His Word will be the supreme rule of life and will lead us to avoid the snares of the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. . . . He that doeth the will of God abideth forever (I John 2:16-17). Through His Word alone, guided by the Holy Spirit, we are enabled to live each day doing the will of God.

It is impossible to relive wasted years, but it is always possible to turn from sinking sand to build upon the eternal rock. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man build upon this foundation . . . Every man's work shall be made manifest (known) . . . because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try (test) every man's work of what sort it is (I Cor. 3:11-13).

Thought for Today:

Behold, the eye of the Lord is upon them that fear Him, upon them that hope in His mercy (Ps. 33:18).
Word Studies:

7:2 ye mete you measure out, give; 7:3 mote tiny, insignificant speck; beam such as judgmental unloving self-righteousness, pretending to have a character one does not possess; 7:6 rend to tear apart; 8:31 suffer hermit; 9:9 receipt of custom tax collector's office; 9:10 sat at meat sat down to a meal; 9:36 fainted distressed by the burden of the rituals and rules of the scribes and Pharisees; scattered thrown down, confused, deceived, neglected by the self-righteous leaders who were more concerned about keeping their own position than helping others.
Cross References:

For Matt. 7:23: See Ps. 6:8. Matt. 8:4: See Lev. 14:1-32. Matt. 8:17: See Is. 53:4. Matt. 9:13: See Hos. 6:6.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Sen. Jeff Bingaman (NM), Rep. Charlie Melancon (LA), Rep. David Obey (WI), Gov. Bob Riley (AL), and Rep. Allyson Schwartz (PA) • Country: Chile (15 million) on the southwestern coast of South America • Major language: Spanish • Religious freedom • 73% Catholic; 20% Protestant; 1% Other; 6% None • Prayer Suggestion: All men need to pray to the Lord, who hears prayers (Ps. 65:2).
Memory Verse for the Week: James 5:10

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 10 -- 11

Highlights:

Thank God for today's message from Jesus who said: Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven (Matt. 10:32). John the Baptist is about to be beheaded, but he made the right choice (10:28). Jesus praised him as His messenger (11:1-15). Unbeliever's actions and judgement (11:16-24). Life's greatest invitation: Come unto Me (11:28-30).
When He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith He unto His disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous (plentiful), but the labourers are few; Pray . . . the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth labourers into His harvest (Matt. 9:36-38). In answer to this need, Jesus chose just 12 ordinary men whom He taught, saying: I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be . . . wise as serpents, and harmless as doves (10:16). Christian persecution, often in the form of pressure to compromise, tests our sincerity. Times of peace often cause the sheep to be indifferent but, during persecution and temptation, the sheep discover they must depend on the Shepherd. Wolves are the natural enemy of sheep. Although wolves (false prophets) in human form often appear to be sheep (7:15), their indifference to His Word becomes apparent. Like Satan (4:5-6), they only quote the few verses that support their agenda.

The Christian is given a "sheep-like" nature, symbolic of innocence and dependence, not of cowardice. Sheep, by their very nature, are in need of a shepherd or they will wander off and easily become prey to many enemies. Still worse, if one wanders, the entire flock may aimlessly follow. There is never safety in numbers for sheep; a shepherd is always necessary. All we like sheep have gone astray (Is. 53:6) and need the (Holy) Spirit . . . He will guide you into all Truth each day (John 16:13).

With Christ (His Word), the Christian can stand boldly in the face of the fiercest enemy. He assures us: Fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear Him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell (Matt. 10:28). The Christian has every reason not to expect kindness from a hostile world. Jesus said to His followers: Because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. . . . they will also persecute you (John 15:19-20).

Thought for Today:

Let Thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us, according as we hope in Thee (Ps. 33:22).
Word Studies:

10:25 Beelzebub prince of evil; 10:29 a farthing small coin of little value; 10:35 variance division, disagreement; 11:20 upbraid rebuke.
Cross References:

For Matt. 10:11, 35-36: See Mic. 7:6. Matt. 11:5: See Is. 35:5; 61:1. Matt. 11:10: See Mal. 3:1. Matt. 11:23: See Ezek. 26:20; 31:14; 32:18,24. Matt. 11:29: See Jer. 6:16.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. and Mrs. Casmir A. Zuranski • Staff: Beth Carlton • Country: China, Mainland (1.242 billion) in eastern Asia • Major languages: Standard Chinese (Putonghua) or Mandarin (based on the Beijing dialect) • Renewed persecution of the Church • 16% Asian (including Fulun Gong); 8% Buddhist; 3% Muslim; number of Christians unknown but growing; 10% Atheist • Prayer Suggestion: Confess any sins in your life so that your prayers can be heard (Ps. 66:18-19).
Memory Verse for the Week: James 5:10

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 12

Highlights:

A lot of questions! It is important to know the answers. What does Jesus say (Matt. 12:1-14)? The true family of Jesus (12:46-50).
Jesus was confronted by the Pharisees who criticized His disciples, saying: Behold, Thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the Sabbath day (Matt. 12:2). Jesus responded: I say unto you, That in this place is One greater than the Temple. . . . For the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath day (12:6,8). All of the Old Testament worship system foreshadowed the life and ministry of Jesus Christ as well as His Church. The Old Testament Israelite had been commanded to keep the last day of the week, the Sabbath, as a day of rest to commemorate God's work of creation in six days (Ex. 20:9-11). But Jesus said He is not only far superior to the Temple, but to the Sabbath day of rest, and is to be worshipped far above all else.

The Sabbath, as well as all Jewish worship days, which were also Sabbaths or holy convocations, were merely a shadow of things to come (Col. 2:17) The early Church recognized this and, in commemoration of Christ's resurrection, upon the first day of the week . . . the disciples came together to break bread (both physical & spiritual) (Acts 20:7). The Apostle Paul was led to write: Upon the first day of the week (no longer on the day of rest) let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings (of tithes and freewill offerings) when I come (I Cor. 16:2).

Most Christians assemble to worship the Lord Jesus Christ on the first day of the week. Jesus rose from the grave on the first day of the week (Mark 16:9). In this way, we honor Him as Lord of our lives by putting Him first in every week. The Sabbath day of rest has its counterpart in the New Covenant that in all things He might have the preeminence (first place). . . . Let no man therefore judge you . . . in respect of an holyday (festival), or of the new moon, or of the Sabbath days: Which are (all) a shadow of things to come (Col. 1:18; 2:16-17).

The Passover blood commemorated Israel's freedom from Egyptian bondage. But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin (I John 1:7).

At Passover, when He instituted the Lord's Supper, Jesus took bread, and blessed (gave thanks to God for) it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is My body. And He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink . . . all of it (from it, all of you); For this is My blood of the New Testament (Covenant), which is shed for many for the remission of sins (Matt. 26:26-28).

Thought for Today:

For in Thee, O Lord, do I hope: thou wilt hear, O Lord my God (Ps. 38:15).
Word Studies:

12:1 corn, grain fields; 12:5 profane, violate or break the law; 12:29 spoil his goods take away his possessions; 12:44 garnished, ready for use.
Cross References:

For Matthew 12:7: See Hosea 6:6. Matthew 12:18-21: See Isaiah 42:1-4. Matthew 12:40: See Jonah 1:17.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Lt. Col. Walter W. Swanson • Government Officials: Rep. Virginia Brown-Waite (FL), Sen. Benjamin Cardin (MD), Rep. John Boccieri (OH), and Rep. At-Large Dennis Rehberg (MT) • Country: Colombia (38.6 million) in northwestern South America • Major language: Spanish • New government has declared religious freedom • 93% Catholic; 4% Protestant; .5% Tibal; .2% Muslim; .1% Baha'i; .1% Jewish; 2.1% non-Religious/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for our nation, that it would truly be a Christian nation (Ps. 67:1-7).
Memory Verse for the Week: James 5:10

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 13 -- 14

Highlights:

Powerful lessons in today's Bible reading. The Word of God is the seed. We're just told to plant and let it grow. God provides the fruit (Matt. 13:1-23). Mustard seed, yeast, and hidden treasure. The pearl of great price can be yours (13:45-46). Jesus miraculously feeds 5,000 when there is no food (14:13-21) and walks on water (14:25-27).
In the first parable of Jesus that Matthew recorded, Jesus described four kinds of responses from those who hear His Word. The true disciple of Christ is represented by the good ground that received seed, which in turn brings forth fruit even to an hundredfold (Matt. 13:8-23). His second parable was of tares (weeds) that grew in the same field with wheat but could not produce fruit (13:24-30).

The tares look identical to wheat as they grow. In its young stages, only the expert can tell the difference. But, when these weeds reach maturity there is no head, exposing its lack of value. In this parable, the Master said: Let both grow together until the harvest (13:30). Jesus explained that the field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom (13:38).

The tares represent those who outwardly appear to be converts to Christ, but who have never truly received Jesus as Savior and Lord of their lives. They may join the church, give their tithes, and deceive members of the church, but not Christ. It may seem startling to read that the Son of Man shall send forth His angels, and they shall gather out of His kingdom all . . . which do iniquity; And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth (13:41-42).

No one expects to be hurled into outer darkness (8:12) and torment in a lake of fire (Rev. 20:15) where there is weeping and wailing and gnashing of teeth (Matt. 8:12) forever. But, Jesus warned: Narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few . . . find it (Matt. 7:14). The next thing Jesus said: Beware of false prophets (7:15).

These few have characteristics that are not true of the majority of people. They recognized that they were sinners and needed a Savior, and they asked the Lord to forgive them of their sins, and to make Him the Lord of their lives. They love to worship the Lord on the Lord's day.

To believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and . . . be saved (Acts 16:31), means much more than a mental assent to the fact — it's their way of life. They continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the Gospel, which ye have heard (Col. 1:23).

Thought for Today:

They that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts (Gal. 5:24).
Word Studies:

13:5 forthwith; 13:15 is waxed gross as grown hardened; 13:20 anon . . . receiveth it immediately accepts it; 13:21 dureth for a while continues only a short time; 13:25 tares seeds — symbolic of satanic activities; 13:33 leaven insignificant yeast that affects the whole; meal around grain; 14:8 charger large platter.
Cross References:

For Matt. 13:14-15: See Is. 6:9-10. Matt. 13:32: See Ps. 104:12; Ezek. 17:23; 31:6; Dan. 4:12. Matt. 13:35: See Ps. 78:2. Matt. 13:41: See Zeph. 1:3. Matt. 13:43: See Dan. 12:3.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mrs. Helen Porter • Staff: Jennifer Cunningham • Government Officials: Rep. Lloyd Doggett (TX), Rep. Brian Higgins (NY), Rep. Steve Scalise (LA) • Country: Comoros (563,000) in the Mozambique Channel of the Indian Ocean • Major languages: Shaafi Islam (Swahili dialect) and Malagasy • Limited religious freedom • 99.7% Muslim; .2% Roman Catholic/Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Encourage others to praise the Lord throughout the day (Ps. 67:5).
Memory Verse for the Week: James 5:10

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 15 -- 17

Highlights:

Jesus rebukes the hypocrites . . . saying,This people draweth nigh unto Me with their mouth, and honoureth Me with their lips; but their heart is far from me (Matt. 15:28). Jesus' first mention of the Church (16:18). Disciples receive "faith builders" in viewing the transfiguration and the healing of the demon-possessed boy (17:1-21).
Casearea Philippi was the location of the famous Pan, Greek god representative of all gods of paganism as well as the Baal god, considered to be a "lord of heaven and earth." It was located about 25 miles north of the Sea of Galilee. It is situated at the foot of the southern slope of Mount Hermon, with its snowcapped peak 9000 feet above sea level, the "highest mountain" in the promised land (Matt. 17:1). Many believe that the transfiguration of Christ took place here.

In the midst of large numbers of idol worshipers in Caesarea-Philippi, Jesus asked His disciples: Whom do men say that I the Son of Man am? In response to His question, the disciples answered: Some say that Thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. But when He said: But whom say ye that I am? — without hesitation, Peter said: Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God (16:13-16).

Our Lord then introduced the word Church for the first time (Matt. 16:18). Christ is the Head of the Church. The Church is composed of people redeemed by His blood and committed to Jesus as their Savior and Lord under the discipline of the Word of God. They recognize their responsibility to help one another in living their covenant relationship with Christ since the Church is the Body of Christ (I Cor. 12:27). The local "church" is a community of ones who are caring brothers and sisters in fellowship with one another seeking to be witnesses unto Me (Christ) . . . and unto the uttermost part of the earth (Acts 1:.

Strange as it may seem, some who claim to be Christians disregard their fellowship with other believers in worship on the Lord's Day. Unknown to them, their spiritual influence and testimony with their own family and others becomes weak and ineffective. Still worse, they desecrate the Lord's Day for selfish pleasures.

In striking contrast, Christ also loved the (True) Church, and gave Himself for it; That He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the Word, That He might present it to Himself a glorious Church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish (Eph. 5:25-27; also I Cor. 1:10).

Thought for Today:

Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another . . . For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins (Heb. 10:25-26).
Word Studies:

16:6 leaven false teaching; 16:18 gates of hell the powers of Satan; 17:25 prevented him Jesus anticipated what Peter would say and spoke before Peter could.
Cross References:

For Matt. 15:4: See Ex. 20:12; 21:17; Lev. 20:9; Deut. 5:16. Matt. 15:8-9: See Is. 29:13. Matt. 16:27: See Ps. 62:12; Prov. 24:12.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Phillip A. Stout • Bible Pathway Printer: Ambrose Printing Staff, Nashville TN • Government Official: Rep. Bill Foster (IL) • Country: Congo, Republic of the (2 million) in west-central Africa • Major languages: French and Lingala • Limited religious freedom, but government hostility has lessened • 41% Roman Catholic; 20% fetishism and belief in ancestral spirits; 17% Protestant; 9% cults • Prayer Suggestion: Praise the Lord for the privilege of publishing His Word (Ps. 68:11).
Memory Verse for the Week: James 5:10

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 18 -- 20
Highlights:

The importance of helping and not hindering children (Matt. 18:3-10). Jesus' purpose in life: To save that which is lost (18:11-14). The importance of forgiving all offenses (18:21-35). Christ and divorce (19:3-12). The difficulty of being rich and entering heaven (19:16-30). By faith, we follow our King. With Jesus all things are possible (19:26). Laborers in His kingdom (20:1-16). Fortells His death and resurrection (20:17-19). Conduct of His followers and two blind men receive sight (20:17-34).
Peter asked a far more important question than he realized when he inquired of Jesus: Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven (Matt. 18:21-22).

Peter thought he was being generous in suggesting seven times. This was twice as many times as required by the traditions of the scribes, plus one more, for a total of seven times. Unwillingness to forgive everyone of their sins against us while, at the same time, expecting Christ to forgive us of all our sins against Him everyday for a lifetime is, a fatal sin. He warned of the horrifying consequences of an unforgiving attitude: If ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses (6:15).

The Lord gives an illustration of a servant who owed ten thousand talents to his king (18:24). This huge debt was impossible to repay even in a lifetime. The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed (released) him, and forgave him the debt. But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence (mere pennies compared to 10,000 talents): and he laid hands on him . . . saying, Pay me that thou owest. And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not: but went and cast him into prison (18:26-30). When his lord was made aware of what took place, he was wroth (angry), and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. So likewise shall My Heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses (18:34-35).

After we consider the fear of God, we find it much easier to forgive others. 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; also Matt. 6:14-15).

Thought for Today:

For Thou art my hope, O Lord God: Thou art my trust from my youth (Ps. 71:5).
Word Studies:

18:6 offend to wrong, cause to sin; 19:14 Suffer permit; 20:3 third hour about 9 a.m.; 20:11 murmured against the goodman of the house here indignant, critical with their employer; 20:15 Is thine eye evil? are you begrudging, jealous, or envious?; 20:26 minister servant.
Cross References:

For Matt. 18:16: See Deut. 19:15. Matt. 19:4: See Gen.1:27; 5:2. Matt. 19:5: See Gen. 2:24. Matt. 19:7: See Deut. 24:1-4. Matt. 19:18: See Ex. 20:13-16; Deut. 5:16-20. Matt. 19:19: See Ex. 20:12; Lev. 19:18; Deut. 5:16.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for international Broadcasts in honor of Linda Kennon • Staff: Rita Guerra • Government Officials: Rep. Dennis Kucinich (OH) and Rep. Thomas Price (GA) • Country: Costa Rica (4 million) in Central America • Major languages: Spanish and English • Religious freedom is increasing • 90% Roman Catholic; 6% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and thank God for all His blessings (Ps. 68:19).
Memory Verse for the Week: James 5:10

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 21 -- 22

Highlights:

Prophecy fulfulled of Jesus' triumphant entry to Jerusalem (Matt. 21:1-11); defiled Temple, cleansing, His miracles (21:12-15); fig tree cursed (21:18-22). Authority of Jesus (21:23). A heavenly parable: The King's invitation is rejected, his parables expected fruit, marriage feast, importance of knowing Scripture and the great Commandment (22:37-40).
On Monday preceding His crucifixion, and just one day after His triumphant entry into Jerusalem, Jesus went into the Temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought. . . . And said unto them, It is written, My House shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves (Matt. 21:12-13; see Is. 56:7).

The chief priests were outraged and dispatched a delegation to interrupt Jesus as He was teaching, and said, By what authority doest Thou these things? (Matt. 21:23). They were referring to His accepting all the praise that the multitude had given Him as the Messiah, as well as questioning who gave Him authority to dismiss their money changers. They were infuriated and conspired to kill Him (26:4).

The Temple belonged to God, who was was supposed to be in their midst. Jesus' cleansing of the Temple illustrates the cleansing that Christ alone brings into our lives through His atoning blood (26:28; I John 1:7; Rev. 1:5).

After pronouncing His judgment upon the Temple activities, Jesus . . . spake unto them again by parables, and said, The Kingdom of Heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son . . . . The wedding is ready. . . . Go . . . therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage. . . . And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment. . . . Then said the king to the servants . . . cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matt. 22:1-2, 8-13).

Because eternal separation from God is so final and so terrifying, Jesus said more about the horrifying torments of eternal hell as a lake of fire (Revelation 20:10) than all the writers of the New Testament combined. In this parable, Jesus exposes all who assume they are good enough for heaven. The Apostle Paul said: There are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers . . . . They profess that they know God; but in works they deny Him, being . . . disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate (Titus 1:10,16).

Thought for Today:

But I will hope continually, and will yet praise Thee more and more (Ps. 71:14).
Word Studies:

21:2 over against you shead of you; facing you; 21:8 strawed . . . in the way spread in His path; 21:33 husbandmen penant farmers; 21:42 The Stone . . . is become the Head of the corner Christ (Ps.118:22-23) who is the Chief Cornerstone (Eph. 2:20; I Pet. 2:6).
Cross References:

For Matt. 21:5: See Is. 62:11; Zech. 9:9. Matt. 21:9: See Ps. 118:26. Matt. 21:13: See Is. 56:7; Jer. 7:11. Matt. 21:16: See Ps. 8:2. Matt. 21:33: See Ps. 80:8-9; Is. 5:1-2. Matt. 21:42: See Ps. 118:22-23. Matt. 22:24: See Deut. 25:5. Matt. 22:32: See Ex. 3:6. Matt. 22:37: See Deut. 6:5. Matt. 22:39: See Lev. 19:18. Matt. 22:44: See Ps. 110:1.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Artur Davis (AL) and Rep. Tom Perriello (VA) • Country: Cote d'Ivoire (16 million) in western Africa • Major languages: French and over 60 native dialects • Religious freedom • 40% animist; 25% Muslim; 10% Roman Catholic; 5% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: What a comfort to know that we depend upon His strength (Ps. 71:16).
Memory Verse for the Week: James 5:10