[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=""]The book of Job was, perhaps, the first written among the Old Testament books. From the people mentioned in the book it would seem to have been told between the time of Abraham and the Exodus of the children of Israel from Egypt. Perhaps between 40 to 80 years before the exodus. This would place the time of writing between BC 1571 and BC 1531. Its author may have been Moses. The place of the events described is in the area of Midian, to the south-east of the Promised Land. There are many views as to whether the events told actually happened, or were rather an ancient drama to instruct faithful believers. From what has been written in James 5 it would seem more likely to be a record of what actually occurred (James 5verses11). What an introduction to the man Job - he was the greatest of all men from the east. But, chiefly, his greatness lay in that, he "was blameless and upright, one who feared God and turned away from evil" (verse 1 ESV). He is a family-oriented man, who brought up his family in "the fear and admonition of the LORD". Verses 6-12 introduces us to "the Satan" of the book. Note, that this time I have used an upper-case S, because the book is dealing with a specific adversary, or opponent - as the Hebrew word indicates - though the name of this adversary is not revealed). As a common noun the word occurs numerous times in the Old Testament, and in the vast majority of cases is without the definite article ("ha" in the Hebrew). The majority of the occurrences where the definite article is used are in Job and Zechariah (both of these books focus on an identifiable opponent, and in these two books that opponent is easily identified). Verse 6 speaks of a day when God's children presented themselves before Him and this tells of a time for gathering together for a specific purpose - such as when Israel gathered at the appointments of the Festivals. Or, when in this age, believers gather to memorialise the Lord's supper (coined "communion"). Job's adversary may have been a disaffected believer. He proposes that Job's reverence for God is conditional on Job's favoured status. God's advice to the adversary is that Job's uprightness is not related to the blessings Job receives. To prove the point God, for a time, gives the opponent power to test this. The Satan has no independent power (see Job 42verses11). From verses 13-21 we read of a succession of disasters which the adversary requested God to bring upon Job and his family.
The chapter finishes by telling us that Job failed not. Job admits that it is Yahweh's right to treat us as He sees fit. Again, when the believers assemble together the adversary is there. Job's opponent is again confronted by God; but the adversary says that all mankind are essentially selfish. Yes, but says Job's foe, smite his health and Job will forsake his uprightness. This affliction of Job's health was permitted, and Job was smitten with leprosy (a loathsome, itching, superinfection of boils). Job receives no let up from the pain that this induced. Job's wife could endure no more and calls for her husband to curse God and die. Job rebukes her folly. From verses 11-13 we are told that when the news of their friend's suffering reached Job's 3 friends they came and sat in silence with him for seven days.
Jonah 2 recalls Jonah's prayer, whilst in the belly of the great fish. The chapter reveals Jonah as an intensely spiritual man. Jonah's prayer includes citations from many of the Psalms, including 42, which is instructive as to Messiah's thoughts and feelings; particularly when he is sorely tested to the limit in Gethsemane (see verses 7-11 compare with Jonah 2verses2-11). But note that these feelings of Messiah, though certainly more intense in Gethsemane, are presented as the Psalm tells us at landmark epochs in the life of our Lord Jesus Christ - at his baptism and at Mount Hermon (the mount of transfiguration).
Chapter 3 tells us that the fish was caused to disgorge Jonah upon the shore close to Nineveh. Jonah would have been bleached white by the stomach juices of the fish. The prophet would have been a walking storybook attracting everyone's attention to the message he was bringing. The message was, as verse 4 indicates, repent or within 40 days Nineveh will be destroyed. Verses 5-10 tell of the incredible response of the Ninevites, from the king to the common citizen. Quoting this contrite response our Lord Jesus rebukes those who failed to repent of their sins at his preaching (see Luke 11verses29-32).
Hebrews 8 tells of Jesus the High Priest administering a "better" covenant. What majestic language the writer uses to start this chapter. Jesus is seated at His Father's right hand - called "the throne of the Majesty in heaven" (V1 ESV). Our Lord Jesus serves in the true tent pitched by God, and not man (he was, by miraculous begettal "the Son of God"). The Tabernacle was typical and the man gifted by God for the fabricating of that tent was Aholiab (meaning in Hebrew "from the Father's tent") Christ as our heavenly High Priest has both offered sacrifices and given great gifts. The Exodus record twice tells us that Moses was to make the Tabernacle after the pattern which was shown to him in the Mount. The covenant Christ mediates has been founded on "better" promises. The writer cites Jeremiah 31verses31-34 in verses 8-12 of chapter 8. The concluding verses take us back to chapter 1, which cited Psalm 102verses25-26 indicating that Messiah would end the Mosaic covenant (the "heavens" being there mentioned). Verses 1-10 of chapter 9 speak of the earthly (typical) sanctuary - the Tabernacle. This was set up for Israel's worship, in a holy place where the comers thereto could have their minds centred on divine matters. The writer firstly describes the Holy Place in v2. From verses 3-5 we are taken beyond the veil into the Holy of Holies i.e.
Most Holy Place. Some, wrongly believe, that the writer has here made a mistake in placing the incense altar in the Most Holyverses thus, for one day each year the incense altar was the Most Holy Place. On the Day of Atonement (the only day in which the High Priest was allowed into the Most Holy) incense had to fill the Most Holy before the High Priest was allowed to enter - "lest he (the High Priest) die". And every other day the sweet incense of prayer permeated the Holy of Holies (Revelation 8verses3-4). Whilst the Tabernacle, and later the Temple, were operating they had a status; but, when Jesus died and the veil separating the Holy and Most Holy Place was rent from top to bottom, it could not function any longer. Those former structures being only the shadow and not the reality, are no longer needed. Christ, the believer's High Priest, is there, in heaven for us. From verses 11-28 of chapter 9, the writer explains how we have redemption through what was achieved in Jesus' offering of himself on the tree (cross). One offering for all time of himself has opened the way for salvation. The offering of bulls and calves provided ritual forgiveness, on the condition that the person making the offering understood what God was teaching (the law was a teacher to bring worshippers to an understanding of Jesus' sacrifice - Galatians 3verses23-26). But the Law of Moses could never cleanse the conscience of the offeror - since it was the sin of each person that was atoned for, and by the slaying of an animal - incapable of sinning (as it didn't have a nature which prompts sin) our conscience is cleansed. So, by our identification with Jesus' offering, as one of us (and representing us in every respect; as the earlier chapters of the book explain - particularly chapters 2, 4 and 5).; we have been given a clear conscience. But the understanding of what Jesus has done on our behalf powerfully motivates us to forsake and turn from our sins to right ways. The old covenant was ratified by the death of animals; but the covenant in Christ, is brought into force by the death and RESURRECTION of our Lord. Verse 22 of chapter 9 states an eternal principle, "Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins" (ESV). And so, Christ's "better" sacrifice has brought us nearer to God. All this by one perfect offering. Verses 27-28 tell us that having dealt with the problem of sin in his first advent, our Lord Jesus will destroy it for ever at his second coming. For Christ no longer is burdened by a nature biased towards sin, but in a sinless immortal body he will do the eradicate sin for every believer (see 1 Corinthians 15verses13-28). Read aloud, pause and ponder.
Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow
Penned by Warwick Rosser and his team, produced by Christadelphianvideo.org
See more Thoughts from the Christadelphian Dialy Bible Reading Planner (By R.Roberts) here...
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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=""]Esther 9verses1-19 give details of the destruction brought by the Jews upon their enemies. At the Royal citadel in Shushan, on the 13th day of the month Adar, when the original decree requiring their destruction had come into effect 500 are slain. The fear of Mordecai fell upon all the subjects of Ahasuerus. Those killed were mainly nobles and included the 10 sons of Haman, who were ignominiously hung on Haman's gallows, where Haman's body already hung. But no spoil was taken by the Jews. Ahasuerus granted Esther that the slaying may continue in the remaining provinces. The following day a further 300 were slain in Shushan and 75,000 in the provinces. Still the Jews did not take any spoil from their enemies.
After this was completed the Jews feasted and rejoiced on the 14th and 15th days. Gifts and food were given to celebrate the deliverance granted to them by their God. Verses 20-31 record the inaugural feast of Purim (signifying the casting of lots) on Adar 14-15 to be celebrated in all generations of the Jews. To this day this joyous festival is celebrated. Esther 10 concludes as chapter 9 began. Mordecai was great and second only to king Ahasuerus. Typically, we see God the Father reigning over all with Christ His Son as the second in command in the time beyond the Millenniumverses see
1 Corinthians 15verses24-28.
PROVIDENCE occurs in the life of every believer. Sometimes it will be evident. Often we may suspect God's hand was behind what has happened. Whether, or not, we see God at work in our life, rest assured He is. Recommended reading Robert Roberts, "Ways of Providence".
We commence the short prophecy of Jonah in our readings today. His name means "dove" and is shared with the Apostle Peter, in the epithet given him by our Lord Jesus Christ - bar Jonah. In the gospel records Jesus is often linked to the prophet Jonah. We will see in this short book that one of the principal lessons is concerning resurrection. (At Jesus' baptism a dove was seen abiding with him. In John 7 at a discussion on his status as a prophet we read, "Arise and search, for out of Galilee arises no prophet" - yet Jonah was a Galilean. No sign was to be given by Christ to Israel except that of the prophet Jonah). The prophecy was given during the reign of Jeroboam 2, king of Israel, between BC 825 and BC 784. More likely in the later time of Jeroboam's reign, when the earlier prosperity had been overtaken by a period of hardship in Israel (see 2 Kings 14verses25-27). At the time of writing Nineveh and Babylon were the chief cities of the Assyrian Empire, which Empire was in ascendancy. Nineveh is at this epoch the greater city. Jonah is told to denounce Nineveh's wickedness and tell of its imminent doom (within 40 days) should it not repent. But as a patriot Jonah is prepared to die, so that the call to repent cannot reach Nineveh. Chapter 1 describes Jonah's attempt to flee in the other direction - i.e. to Tarshish; so that he wouldn't be able to preach to the Ninevites. But, of course, no-one can run away from God. Whilst attempting to flee a savage storm that would not abate comes upon the boat. The sailors struggle valiantly against the waves but eventually have to cast Jonah overboard. But the LORD had prepared a great fish to swallow Jonah (and 3 days later disgorge him on the coast near Assyria). The mariners are deeply affected by the whole situation and, perhaps, became more religious. Note how carefully the words of the last verse of chapter 1 are recorded, "Jonah was in the fish's belly for three days and three nights".
Hebrews 5verses12-6versesverses20 continues the theme begun in chapter 5 - a warning against apostacy. The first 8 verses deal with a pressing danger to those, who were once enlightened by the Spirit Word, and had shared in the Holy Spirit gifts of the first century, of "falling away" (Greek word for apostacy and having a number value of 666). This proves that the possession of a spiritual gift was not a guarantee of a place in the kingdom. The writer expresses his hope that the majority of the letter's readers will not succumb to this challenge. From verse 13 to the end of chapter the writer outlines the certainty of God's promises. All His promises are unfailing and are not capable of any shortfall in what He has promised. Yahweh's promise to Abraham is vouchsafed by an oath based on God's own existence. And so, with Christ having been raised and exalted to His Father's presence our hope is securely anchored in Christ. This hope takes us beyond mortality and being with Christ will be realised at Jesus' return to earth to set up the kingdom promised to Abraham (see Romans 4verses13; Genesis 13verses14-15). From chapters 7-10 the writer
speaks of the "better priesthood", which has been brought into existence by our Lord Jesus Christ. Chapter 7 introduces us to "one made like unto the Son of God", by the terms the Scripture uses and the manner in which they are introduced to the reader of the sacred inspired text. Twice only do we find Melchizedek, the king-priest of Jerusalem mentioned in the Old Testament - Genesis 14 and Psalm 110. These verses were written about a thousand years apart. And together with an enacted parable from 2 Samuel chapters 6-8 allow us to see how this man prefigures the Lord Jesus Christ and his priesthood. Like Abraham's promises Christ's priesthood (typically seen in Melchizedek) is founded upon an oath. Since Melchizedek's priesthood preceded and also prophetically succeeds the Aaronic priesthood the Scripture foreshadows a change of law administered by an eternal priesthood of King-priests. Christ's sacrifice suffices in the forgiveness of sins once for all time. And our Lord Jesus will return to the earth free from a body which is weak and sin prone to rule in glorious immortality.
Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow
Penned by Warwick Rosser and his team, produced by Christadelphianvideo.org
See more Thoughts from the Christadelphian Dialy Bible Reading Planner (By R.Roberts) here...
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css="" css_animation="none"]A @Christadelphians Video:
Have you ever noticed a word repeated over and over in a Bible chapter? This isn't a coincidence. In this outstanding and insightful Bible talk, we explore one of Scripture's powerful teaching methods: the intentional repetition of key words to emphasize a vital subject.
Join us as we take a deep, expositional dive into 2 Corinthians 1, where the word "comfort" is strategically repeated to unlock a profound message about God's character and our fellowship. We'll trace this theme through Acts 16 and other passages, discovering how God "calls us alongside" Himself and each other, especially in times of tribulation and repentance. This thought-provoking presentation reveals the incredible consistency of Scripture and the wonderful hope of reconciliation and comfort offered through the Lord Jesus Christ.
**Chapters:**
0:00 - Introduction: The Power of Repetition in Scripture
1:17 - The Key Word in 2 Corinthians 1: "Comfort"
3:38 - The Context: Sin and Discipline in 1 Corinthians
6:52 - The Goal of Discipline: Repentance and Restoration
8:44 - The Meaning of "Comfort": To Call Alongside
10:33 - A Case Study in Acts 16: The Call to Macedonia
13:42 - Joy and Comfort Amidst Suffering
15:21 - Applying the Comfort: Restoring a Brother
17:28 - The Macedonian Example of Joy in 2 Corinthians 7
20:08 - A Chilling Contrast: The Danger of Rejection
23:14 - The Ultimate Comfort: The Hope of the Kingdom
25:06 - Conclusion: God's Promise of Pardon and Peace
[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NnNF8HlrAwk[/embedyt]
**Categories & Bible Verses:**
✝️ Gospel Harmony: 2 Corinthians 1, Matthew 23:37-38
🙏 Comfort & Consolation: 2 Corinthians 7:4-7, Isaiah 40:1
⛪️ Ecclesial Life: 1 Corinthians 5:1-5
🔄 Repentance & Forgiveness: Hebrews 10:26-27
🕊️ Hope & The Kingdom: Acts 16:6-40
Tags: Bible study, Scripture, Biblical teaching, Christadelphian, Bible truth, God's comfort, 2 Corinthians, Acts 16, Repetition in Bible, Biblical hope, Expositional teaching
We are a Christadelphian team, Brothers and sisters of Christ, and we're passionate about delivering powerful, Scripture-based content to strengthen and inspire your faith journey. If this presentation resonated with you, help spread the encouragement—share it with a friend today
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