AUGUST 2019 Edition: WONDERFUL WORDS OF LIFE

                                               By Dr. Keith J. Wise

INTRODUCTION: August is an interesting month.  The month August was named after the Emperor Augustus.  You remember this gentleman, he was the emperor who was in charge when Jesus was born.  He had a colorful history and background which we could not exhaust here, but he is significant.  He ordered the census that would span several years in the Roman Empire to determine the per capita potential for taxation.  He would have never thought that his edict would send a humble couple from Galilee to Bethlehem for a singular birth.  For us, this is a month of completing those last vacation times of sun and surf and the beginnings of garden harvests in the mid-west and other parts of the country.  It can be hot and cooler within a weeks time.  It also a time to reflect on our blessings and the God that made them possible. Hopefully this blog will inspire you to look up from your busy tasks and distractions and remember that there is a living God who is vitally interested in you and your life and goals.  If He knows when the sparrow falls, he is vitally informed about you. We all have an appointment with Him and His desire is that your joy be full. (John 15:11)

I. DIGGING DEEPER... A Study of the Prophet and Judge Samuel

We have been looking at the life of Samuel the Prophet and last Judge.  We have seen his special and unique birth and calling.  He comes at a turning point in the life and history of Israel as we observe a secular approach to the rule of the Judges now being replaced by Kings.  As earlier noted,(see June edition), regulations for the king were given by Moses' handbook (Deut. 17:14-20), and Hannah's prayer spoke of Yahweh strengthening his king (I Sam.2:10). Note: Some of these references are prophetic referencing Jesus the Messiah.

The people, however, requested a king in a desire for visible security.  They have no hope that Samuel's sons will follow as faithful judges (8:1-3), and they don't want to wait until the next invasion for a deliverer to arise.(As we see in the book of Judges).   Better to have a permanent king who will fight their battles (8:19-20).  Their failure to completely trust Yahweh for safety will mean higher taxes to support a defense complex, a  costly central bureaucracy, and a draft to establish a standing army(8:10-18).  What a price to pay for a lack of faith!  Similar to our modern world, we want the immediate in place of the long term security of God through Christ Jesus.

Saul as King: Saul is privately anointed, then publicly proclaimed by the Lord's direction. Similar to other judge figures like him, he is empowered by the Spirit of God to deliver his people from an oppressor ( I Sam 11).  This initial victory leads to complete acceptance of Saul as King.

Saul initially is a successful King. He defeats Israel's enemies, freeing them from outside oppression (14:47-48).  He worships Yahweh, not idols (14:35, 15:31), and expels mediums and spiritists from Israel (28:3).  David praises him for having  brought economic prosperity as well (II Sam. 1:24). 

The tragedy of King Saul and his removal as King also referencing his line of successors will be eliminated. I Samuel chapter 13-15 focuses on two particular failures.

• not following instructions to wait for Samuel to offer a pre-battle sacrifice;
• and not carrying out herem (a complete destruction or genocide) of the Amalekites as commanded by the Lord through Samuel. (Note later consequences of not obeying this order in the book of Esther with Haman and his ancestry- Feast of Purim for the Jews)

Both of these failures show that Saul had a mistaken notion of kingship-one that Yahweh will not bear.  The notion: that like other ancient kings, Israel's king would be an absolute monarch-- that his rule would be law was in fact in error. 

No, Israel already has a law given by God, not developed by the king.  Also, Yahweh speaks through prophets.  That word is higher than the king.  Moses specifically warned about the king considering himself above the Law (Deuteronomy 17:18-20).  In contrast, like Joshua, the king was to be a student of the Law that he might obey it. He would model obedience before the people.  Torah is higher than the King.  Prophet is higher than King.  Both are Yahweh's instruction.  Later we will see the absolute secular view during the period of the Babylonian Captivity when the "Law of the Medes and Persians" once given could not be refuted, only changed by another edited law. (Again, see the book of Esther and the saving of the Jewish people.)

For Saul's first disobedience to Samuel's instruction, Saul loses the right  to pass on the kingship to his sons (13:13-14).  At his second failure to carry out orders, he loses his own right to the throne. (15:26).  This then, prepared for David who we will study next month.

II. DID YOU KNOW?...

1. Whose horses were swifter than Leopards?  Answer: According to Habakkuk 1:6,8  they were the Chaldeans. 

2.  Who said every kind of beast and bird had been tamed by man?  Answer: James in the book of James- 3:7

3. To what animal are both Jesus and Satan compared?  Answer: The "Lion"- Revelation 5:5 and Revelation 22:16.  I Peter asserts that Satan is also a lion. I Peter 5:8

4. When did God keep dogs from barking? Answer: At the time of the last "plague" of the Egyptians. (see Exodus 11:7)

5. Who fed dragon meat to animals and birds?  Answer: The Lord, Ezekiel 29:5. Also see verses 2,3.  Dragon in context was a metaphor for the Pharaoh of Egypt.

III. NUGGETS OF NOURISHMENT... A sermon on the 2nd Coming.

Text: Acts 1:10,11

Introduction: All who believe the scriptures acknowledge the second coming of Jesus Christ. In our text today we see words of the two angels to the Apostles as he ascended into heaven. This affirms several dimensions of this aspect of Christian teaching through the ages as we believe Christ will return.

I. The Certainty of Jesus' Second Coming-
   A. There are over 300 direct and indirect references to Jesus' coming in the Greek word parousia.  This word means "coming" or "presence."

   B. Inspiration affirms: "Behold, he comes with clouds; and every eyes shall see him, and they also which pierced him; and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him.  Even so, Amen." (Rev. 1:7)

   C. Jame, John, Peter, and Paul explicitly taught Jesus is coming again. (James 5:7, I John 3:2, II Peter 1:16, Phil. 3:20)

   D. Jesus himself said he would return. (John 14:1-3)

II. The Manner of His Coming-
   A. Jesus shall personally return, "this same Jesus" (Acts 1:11)

   B. His return shall be audible (John 5:28, "shall hear"), visible (Rev. 1:7, "every eye shall see him"), and unexpectedly (Matt.25:13, "know neither the day nor the hour...").

   C. Jesus' coming shall be characterized by majesty and grandeur (Matt.25:31, II Thess. 1:1-7)

III. The Time of Jesus' Return-
   A. No man knows when Jesus is returning (Matt. 24:36).
       1. The same verse says the angels do not know, only the Father.
       2.  Furthermore, Jesus (while in the flesh) did not know (Mark 13:32).  We
            are given general information, however, but we can not know "the day
            and hour." (see II Thess. 2:1-12, Rev. 20)

 IV. Prevailing Conditions on Earth When Jesus Returns-
   A. The scriptures show indifference will be prevailing when Jesus returns (Matt.24:37-39).  As these verse allude, most will be unprepared.

   B. There will also be a false sense of spiritual security experienced by man at Christ's coming. (I Thess. 5:2,3)

   C. Greed, selfishness, and general depravity will be common (II. Tim.3:1-5).

V. The Purpose of Jesus' Return-
   A. Jesus shall raise "all" the dead at His coming, both those who have "done good" and those "that have done evil." (John 5:28,29)

   B. Jesus shall judge all men at his return (Matt.25:31-46).  Men shall be judged based on their deeds and God's Word shall be the standard. (Romans 2:6, II Cor. 5:10, John. 12:12:48)  The wicked shall be assigned to everlasting punishment and the righteous to life everlasting (Matt.25:46).  The righteous living "shall be caught up together with them (dead in Christ-vs.16 in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air; and so shall we ever be with the Lord." (I Thess. 4:13-18)

   C. Jesus is not coming to establish some governmental kingdom as we understand it, but a "glorified" kingdom beyond the "kingdom" of the Church established on Pentecost. This kingdom will be "delivered up" to the Father(I Cor.15:24).

Conclusion: Instead of wild speculation that often is taught by various T.V. Evangelist or denominations, let us prepare ourselves in "righteousness"  and holy lives to greet this great august event. (Matt.24:42, I Thess.5:6-9)


VI. QUOTABLE QUOTES...

1. Influence: "Setting an example is not the main means of influencing another, it is the only means." (Albert Einstein)

2. Marriage: "A man marries a woman hoping she won't change, but she does.  A woman marries a man hoping he will change, but he doesn't." [Laurie Baker, quoted in QUOTE, Vol. 53, pg. 153]

3. Prayer: "Men are looking for better methods, God is looking for better men." E.M. Bounds, Power Through Prayer.

4. Character: "Building boys is better than mending men." (Old YMCA Pledge)

5. Psychological Awareness: "Worry is interest due on trouble before it is due."

JULY EDITION- 2019... WONDERFUL WORDS OF LIFE...

                                              by Dr. Keith J. Wise

Introduction: This is the month of July 4th in which we celebrate American freedom.  It is a strange phenomenon when you think about it.  The road and journey of the United States is pretty nearly a one way street.  Everyone wants to come here and few wish to leave.  Nobody in the vast majority of cases gives up his or her American citizenship.  It is still prized in the community of nations. 

Why is it so?  Is it because we simply have more variety and abundance of food?  Better homes?  Better living conditions? Our land was forged out of hardship and a country of sacrifice.  In my humble assessment, I believe it is a simple factor of "freedom."  We have not been a perfect country but we have been a people who seek justice for all.  It is in most cases, the human rights millions of American have died for. 

We are at a junction today because many take their civil rights and civic responsibility for granted. We were born in a free country.  We think freedom could never end or be lost.  This is a myth.  If we do not stoke the fires of vigilance as our forefathers have pleaded, we will loose the privileges and goals of freedom. We must work at it.  Not some of us.  All of us.  Not some of the time.  All of the time, and reference an Almighty God who has afforded these freedoms.

So on this coming Fourth of July 2019, value your citizenship, value your vote, value your fellow Americans as we pull together.  Remember, keep it for yourself, for your children and your children's children.  Keep your faith and love of country strong, and your belief as you give yourself to civic interest.

There is a lot to America, and it's all yours to enjoy and strive for in our lifetimes!

I. DIGGING DEEPER... SAMUEL THE PROPHET AND JUDGE... 

The book of Samuel in the Old Testament is a repository of favorite Bible stories: the story of Samuel's birth, the account of the Philistine's trouble when they capture the ark, the heroism and true friendship of Johnathan, and certainly the defeat of Goliath by the "boy" David.  Often, however, they have been torn from their context and surroundings.  

After the Judges we need some type of break in the narrative.  With an even dozen or so judges, it is hard to keep the players straight without a scorecard.  In Samuel, by contrast, there are only three main participants: Samuel, Saul, and David.  There are however, some other lesser players that are added to the mix. Snapshots of prophetic depth that are pregnant with foreshadow and theme.

A. The Barren Woman- I Samuel 1-2

One of these participants is a barren women, and with her the story opens.  Here is a women emotionally in rags.  Though her husband loves her, he has taken another wife--no doubt because she has given him children while Hannah has not been able to supply.  Her rival mocks her, much as Hagar did Sarah. To put it in a word, Hannah feels "vulnerable."

But this is just the kind of case in which God has shown his power in the past.  He has produced a whole nation from a barren womb--in fact, from a who succession of them (Gen.11:30, 25:21, 29:31).  Hannah's distress leads her to cry to the Lord and dedicate her offspring to exclusive service to him.  This response- a model of a response the Lord wanted from the whole nation-leads to the birth of the last Judge and first "noted" Prophet: Samuel.  He founds the "School of the Prophets."

Hannah's experience and her prayer (2:1-10) exalts the Lord as the one who...

     ...raises the poor from the dust

      and lifts the needy from the ash heap;

      he seats them with princes

      and has them inherit a throne of honor (2:8).

The unique Lord of Israel encompasses security.  He is the Rock of safety. "There is no Rock like our God" (2:2).

Samuel, Prophet and Judge- I Samuel 3-7

Samuel is a great Prophet that has many introductions in terms of God's ability and the dismal state of Israel's condition. This is nowhere more obvious than in the very center of Israel's worship of Yahweh- the tabernacle.  Under the current priest Eli and his sons, Samuel joins a situation at the Lord's tent which could not be more disgusting.  Eli's sons violate the rules of sacrifice to satisfy their own tastes, threaten violence against faithful worshipers, and introduces Canaanite sexual abominations (2:12-17,22-25).

In the midst of this loathsome disobedience, God raises his leader from infancy to manhood, marking Samuel's progress against the continuing failure of Eli's sons (2:11, 2:18-21, 2:26, 3:1-21).  

We are in most part familiar with the story of Samuel sleeping in the tabernacle, hearing the voice of the Lord, and three times rousing Eli to ask what he wanted before finally being told to answer the Lord the next time. It is a dynamic and positive story for children, and a reminder to adults of God's providence and grace on a national level. 

In further reference, it is not an incidental story, for it cites the beginning of Samuel's prophetic career before Yahweh.  The fact that all of Samuel's words come true-remember they must if he is a "true" Prophet- prompted Israel to recognize again that here was a prophet in their midst (3:19-21;cf.3:1).

As already noted, Samuel is a Prophet, but he becomes a Judge. The capture of the ark and its history in Philistine territory(chaps. 4-6) show that God does not need Israel to vindicate himself as the true God.  Rather, they need him.  With Eli and his sons eventual death, deliverance from the Philistines may begin. Samuel in his role as judge achieves one of those mighty deliverances in which Yahweh himself for Israel (chapter 7).

But now Samuel's final and most famous task begins to take Israel into its monarchy.  Samuel is God's "kingmaker" (chaps. 8-12).  Not that Samuel likes the job.  He considers the elder's request for a king a personal slap in the face; worse than that, so does Yahweh (8:6-8,12:13-19).  Yet the idea of a king in Israel isn't new: Jacob predicted the rising of the king's rising scepter in the tribe of Judah(Gen. 49:10), regulations for the king were given in Moses' handbook (Deut.17:14-20), and Hannah's prayer spoke of Yahweh strengthening his king (I Samuel 2:10). Some or most of this is also prophetic of the Messiah deliverer.

The lessons of scripture for the believing community is always a matter of contrast.  The people's request for a king was a desire for visible security. They had no hope in Samuel's sons who would potentially follow as faithful judges (8:1-3), unlike those of Eli, and they don't want to wait until the next invasion for a deliverer to arise.  Better to have a permanent king who will fight their battles (8:19,20), and appear as the other nations around them.  Their failure to completely trust Yahweh for safety will mean higher taxes to support a defense complex, a costly bureaucracy, and a draft to establish a standing army(8:10-18).  What a price to pay for such lack of faith!

Ironically, this is in itself is not an absolute evil, though these people ask out of evil motives.  Yahweh will give them their king, and that first king is Saul (I Sam. 9-11).  Saul seeks out the prophet to help him find his father's donkeys, and ends up on the throne.

III. DID YOU KNOW...

There is a strange diet... "The rivers eat away their banks, the tides devour the sand; the morning sun drinks up the mist, the ocean eats the land.  Taxes eat up property, and pride eats out the soul, but moths the diet record hold, because they eat a hole." Observations of the Obvious

Imagination was given to man to compensate him for what he is not; and a sense of humor was provided to console him for what he is.

Men usually get somewhere when they develop a brake for the tongue and an accelerator for the brain.

Have you ever noticed that the knocker is always outside the door?

IV. NUGGETS OF NOURISHMENT... A Sermon Outline of Patriotic Thoughts-

Title: The Recovery of America

Texts: Psalm 72:1-4; Romans 13:1-7; Acts 5:29

Introduction: In a day in which so many are confused about their affiliation to their country, we might look back to look forward to see keys to our identity and commonality. To begin, we might read the lyrics to the The Star Spangled Banner written by Frances Scott Key.  If you do any research on the founding of America you will see a profound documentation of the Christian influence on the nation. I believe there are three primary ways we can "recover a healthy vision of America."

I. We Pray For the Mighty- Read Psalm 72-

II. We Fight For the Lowly- Read Proverbs 31-

      A. Be a Watchdog-

      B. Be a Neighbor-

      C. Be a Mentor-

III. We Stand for the Godly-  Read Romans 13:1-7

Conclusion: As we evaluate these scriptures, we see a whole array of actions we can take individually to transmit positive energy and information to make our nation a nation of truth and compassion.  Let us commit ourselves as part of the solution rather than part of the problem.

V. NOTABLE QUOTES...THOUGHTS THAT TRANSFORM

"The preservation of our way of life depends on men of strong faith, who are advancing spiritual principles, and are working together with understanding, especially with the strength that come through persevering patience."  Admiral Chester W. Nimitz

"If you spend all your time collecting money for fear of poverty, you are practicing poverty already." Egyptian Proverb

 "Men show their character in nothing more than in what they think laughable."

 " Prosperity is only an instrument to be used; not a deity to be worshiped." Reader's Life Quotes

 "A song in the night is worth two in the day." Albert's quotes

JUNE EDITION... 2019- The Month of Blooming and Growing...

                                                  By Dr. Keith J. Wise

I. Introduction: This is the month of graduation "Open Houses"Father's Day and Flag Day.  Why celebrate these symbols of home and country?  We live in an era far different than those of our father's and our childhood for those of us who are baby boomers.  We remember the sacrifices of our father's and mother's in WWII and Korea. Furthermore, our blood as "baby boomers" in Vietnam and our children's blood in the Middle East.  Sacrifices for freedom in America is not a theory but a living reality!  We are often troubled by pseudo-facts, false reporting and visions of "division" which melt away with common ground realities.  Our families, futures and opportunities for the next generations lie before us.  May those who follow find us faithful.

Over the history of our country, which is one of the most remarkable phenomena of the world, she stands as an epic example. Let me suggest an acrostic to humbly describe our nation.  AMERICA...

A... The arena of our beautiful landscapes with wide plains, snow covered mountain peaks and note with nostalgic pride the wikiaups and wigwams of native Americans. Each of our states is as wealthy as some nations in the world.  Grace has been shown to us in these natural vistas.

M... The majesty and maturity of the broad shoulders of our pioneers; the blood of legal immigrants seeking a better life and adding to this glimmer of swinging axes, a Bible to be read and followed, and a gun to supply food and protection that built a nation.

E... The energy of industry that built the nation in the Industrial Revolution and the positive Environmental Movements that seek to keep our land, water and air clean for healthy non-political reasons.  Tools of hard working people in mind, body and soul.

R... The reaching out of our strong hand to the world in friendship and cooperation toward all who love freedom, justice and peace.  We reach not to exploit but engage in enlightenment.

I... Represents the individual American whose ingenuity and creativity stands to bless the world.  Not a collectivism that has failed to bless national peoples elsewhere, but a shared vision of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Opportunity to become more than we are above ourselves and subject to a loving God who holds us accountable to each other.

C... Unleashing the creativity of man in a new freedom, harnessed to the betterment of mankind. America has been the seedbed of new technologies and life.  

A... Submission to an Almighty God who lives and examples true sacrifice of His Son for us.  Yes, "a" man and women on their knees in prayer, symbolizing a nation which recognizes its creator and gives thanks for His blessings. Submitted and committed to something beyond themselves...we voice "gratitude."

Yes...my fellow Americans...AMERICA... is a beautiful is word.

II. DIGGING DEEPER... The Fulfillment of the Law of the Old Testament...

When one begins a serious study of the whole Bible we are captivated by its triggers and timely prophecies.  As we honestly admit, Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of all the prophesies of the Jewish Scriptures as Messiah.  We can not erase or ignore the Messianic hope of the Jewish people as Jesus boldly declares in Luke 24:44 "...Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms."

Ironically, Jesus denied any wish to abolish the Law or the Prophets but predicted their fulfillment (Matt. 5:17-18).  Jesus himself brings the Law to fulfillment in a number of ways.

First, he fulfills the sacrificial system.  The sacrifices ordained by the Law could not take away sins (Heb.10:3), they had a to be continually repeated (Heb.7:27), and were offered by imperfect and finite priests (Heb.7:23-28).  They were part of a temporary covenant (8:13), that was a picture of the ultimate fulfillment, but they were unable to bring about forgiveness of sin (9:9-10, 10:1-3).   For this reason the book of Hebrews calls the New Covenant a "better" and "superior" covenant (8:6).  The first or Mosaic Covenant is made "obsolete" (8:13) and applied only "until the time of the new order" (9:10).

Second, Jesus fulfills the righteousness of the Law.  Paul declares the whole world guilty before God- the Jew with the Law and the Gentile without it.  Some Gentiles were even able to live as righteously as their Jewish neighbors who had God's Law. (Substitute non-Christian and Christian and check out you own neighborhood.)  The bottom line on earning righteousness is: "No one will be declared righteous in his sight by observing the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of sin" (Romans 3:20)  Paul, however, denies that he is nullifying the Law.  He insists the he is upholding or establishing it (3:31). The righteousness of the Law is not established by keeping it for merit before God.  That is doomed to failure.  The righteousness of the Law is established by receiving the gift of righteousness in obedience of Faith as declared in the New Covenant that Peter declared on Pentecost. (Romans 9:30-31; Acts 2:30 ff; Romans 6:1-14).  Christ is the end of the Law (Rom.10:4)- not only because he inaugurated a new covenant to replace it, but because he achieved its righteous standard for all who believed and obeyed it. As it plays out, this is Grace as portrayed visibly in the world. Christ satisfies the righteous demands of the Law.  It is in him that we "become the righteousness of God" (II Cor. 5:21).

Our focus as Christians is not the keeping of the Law as a merit system, but Jesus Christ himself.  Our response is based on gratitude for what God has done in Christ. We love him because he first loved us (I John 4:19).  We forgive, because we are forgiven (Ephesians 4:23).  We honor God with our bodies because we, like ancient Israel, are bought with a price (I Cor. 6:19-20).  

Beloved readers, Christ is the center of our lives and loves, the centerpiece of our Peace!!  Although muted by this world's selfish aims and goals, his place will be front and center at his return.

III. DID YOU KNOW???? Answers to Questions and Kings...

1. There was king that had his thumbs and great toes cut off for having treated seventy captive kings in a similar manner.  Who was he?

Answer: His name was Adoni-bezek, (Judges 1:6-7)- Read his story and his end.

2. There was a king in the Old Testament who reigned seven days and then cremated himself.  Who was he?

Answer: His name was Zimri: You can read his story in I Kings 16:15-18- This occurred during the period of Israelite history of the divided Kingdoms of Judah and Israel. 

3. There was a king who was very fat.  He was so fat that when he was stabbed to death by a left-handed man, an unusual description, he died.  Where and when was was such an event?

Answer: You find this in the book of Judges when Eglon, king of Moab, was stabbed by Ehud. (Judges 3:17, 21, 22)  One of the most interesting periods in Israelite history is the 300 years period in which God raised up Judges to deliver the children of Israel from various oppressors.  Here is an example of one of these Judges in a rather bazaar fashion delivering God's people from an oppressor.

IV. NUGGETS OF NOURISHMENT... How to Live a Deeper Christian Life...

Text: II Peter 1:1-15

Introduction: When we consider living a deeper more meaningful Christian life it comes from a transformation of our position and purpose before God. We all must acknowledge that Christ has taken us from the defeat of and condemnation of sin. He transformed us into a people who share in the victory of our Lord. (I Cor.15)

A. The Christian Life Begins with Faith and Obedience. (vs. 1-4)

B. The Christian Life Grows in Faith, Love, and Obedience. (vs.5-7)- From "root" to "fruit."

     1. Goodness-

     2. Knowledge-

     3. Temperance-  In what areas?

           a) Our Tongues- Thoughtful language and communication.

           b) Our Temperament- Our attitude and response to life in general.

           c) Our Temptations- Equipped with the "whole armor of God."

     4. Perseverance- (vs.6)- (Patience)

     5. Godliness- (vs. 6)

     6. Brotherly Kindness- (vs.7)

     7. Love- (Agape love)- (vs. 7)

  C. In Christian Life is God Expected  us to Produce Results- (vs.8-10)

     1. These Qualities- (some translations say "things")

     2. Spiritual Discernment- To keep us from being led astray. Wisdom as we live.

     3. Assurance of Our Salvation- This assurance helps us "endure."

     4. Fruitful Living- As John 15 describes our fruitfulness as Christ is the vine and we are the branches.  We remain in Him and He in us to make us fruitful.

CONCLUSION: 

V. QUOTABLE QUOTES... Some thoughts for the month...

1. "My interest is in the future, because I am going to spend the rest of my life there." Charles Kettering-

2. "You're young at any age if you are planning for tomorrow" His Place

3. "One thing I know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who will have sought and found how to serve." Dr. Albert Schweitzer

4. "Through the ages no nation has had a better friend than the mother who taught her children to pray."  "The three great essentials of happiness are something to do, something to love, and something to hope for."  "The man who removes mountains begins by carrying away small stones." - from Just a Moment

VI. THE MESSAGE IS IN THE LYRICS... Consider this old hymn-

Title: Come, Thou Almighty King- 

Brief Background: This is considered one of the oldest English hymns sung in the late 18th century.  It was originally attributed to to Wesley but has since been revised to another English lawyer and orator.  My hymnbook notes that it was sung as an "Italian hymn." It can be found in almost any hymnbook and if you read the lyrics they inspire worship and adoration to God in the Trinity.  Here I will just share the first verse.  Let this soak in and bless you today and in the month of June.

vs.1 Come, Thou Almighty King, Help us Thy name to sing, Help us to praise: Father, all glorious, O'er all victorious, Come and reign over us, Ancient of Days.

BLESSING!!-

           

       

 

MAY EDITION: 2019... THE MONTH OF REMEMBRANCES...

                                      WONDERFUL WORD OF LIFE...

 By Dr. Keith J. Wise...

I. INTRODUCTION: The month of May is a month we remember Mothers and the Memorials to fallen men and women in service to our country.  We hear much drivel today about "boarders do not count" and "we are citizens of the world."  But try to say that to those who saw America as a light on a hill, and the example of hope and inspiration to whole generations of people who have preceded us.

    Memorial Day is a special day we remember collectively; and, by remembering, we judge ourselves and our values in life.  A nation, like individual, is the sum of all the preceding characters that has contributed to it.  There is the best and the worst, both made profitable by a just conscience, which recognizes and decides between them.  The light of high endeavor never goes out; the torch passes from generation to generation borne safely amid tumult and peace, amid onslaught and reverence.  

    There is a flag, seen tiny against a field of green and white, which flutters above the bivouac of Arlington National Cemetery. There is a wreath visibly adorning the home of every family whose fathers and mothers lived worthily that the race might be nobly preserved.  There is a faith which, enriched by all these lives, is the deathless guerdon of a people who dares not, nor wishes to forget.

II. DIGGING DEEPER... A Look at Hebrews Chapter 2...some answers-

Overarching our interest are a number of books of the New Testament that confirm Historical and Doctrinal Christianity.  One of the most revealing is the book of Hebrews.  Chapter 2 of Hebrews has any number of cardinal truths of Christianity that illuminates some powerful meanings and clarifies our understanding of Christ, His resurrection and our benefit from such a sacrifice for humanity.

A. For instance: What are some cardinal truths of the phrase "to what we have heard" in verse 1 of chapter 2?  Answer: God created man, man fell from perfection to sin and death in the garden.  Furthermore, God was not willing to see man stay in that state of eternal destruction, but provided a means of revealing a restored salvation for man in His time. (See promises in Gen. 3:15) Also look at I Thessalonians 5:23. God sent Jesus Christ in the form of flesh to save the world, and the Church to provide the community of life to support mankind. God sent the Holy Spirit to strengthen, support, and deliver man from the oppression of the evil one.  In short, man accepts the free gift of God's grace by faith and obedience through repentance and baptism as prescribed by the models of the early church as the Apostles directed it. (see the book of Acts)

B. A "confirmation" process was accomplished to seal such salvation and reconciliation to God. Our writer gives us at least four of these amazing proofs: "signs, wonders, various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit."

C. Verse three of chapter 2 notes that God's Salvation is "great."  Consider the following reasons why this salvation is "great."  This salvation was announced by the Lord, it was confirmed by those who heard him (the Apostles), and it was testified or witnessed by God himself.  All of this is found in verse 3.  

D. Christ was made "perfect" or complete through His suffering  to bring "many sons to glory." Although the Lord Jesus Christ was perfect, our writer re-echos this truth in Hebrews 5:8 when he says, "Although he was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered..."

E. Question: In what way does Satan have the power of death as noted in verse 14 of chapter 2 over humanity?  Answer: He does so by his attempt to inflict "double death" by both condemning us in the body(physical death) and the soul(spiritual death.) Death means "separation" in both languages of the Bible.  In reality it is the enemies ploy to separate us Physically, Spiritually and Eternally from God. Christ has countered him in checkmate by "justification"(just as if we never sinned and "reconciliation"(perfect renewal of our relationship with God), of the fallen human race. (Romans 5:8-9; Colossians 1:20-22 & Colossians 2:12,13)

F. In chapter 2 of Hebrews Paul, our author of Hebrews, explains again to believing Jews who had accepted Jesus as Messiah but were being persecuted and were in danger of leaving the faith.  He illuminates three great truths for us all. 1.) As man, Christ Jesus paid the penalty of sin- (I Peter 2:24),  as God he proves the power of God to bring peace to the human heart and restores love to our sinful nature. (John 3:16).  Finally, as Christ (the anointed one of God) he is the only one mediator between God and man. (I Tim. 2:5)

III. DID YOU KNOW? Missed Opportunities... a Reflection.

History is filled with examples of people who if they would have had their eyes open, would have seen some great opportunities that they apparently missed.  Here are a few: 

   A Nottingham plumber submitted to the British War Office in 1911, a design for a tank--a then unknown military device.  Across the drawing, in red ink, was written the official comment: "This man is mad."

   When George Westinghouse had perfected his air-brake, in 1875, he offered it to Commodore Vanderbilt.  The railroad magnate returned Westinghouse's letter, with these words scribbled across the bottom.  "I have no time to waste on fools."

   One day a stranger approached Mark Twain with a request for $500, for which he would sell half interest in his invention.  Twain, "bit" several time before, refusing flatly.  However, out of courtesy he asked the stranger his name.  "Bell," the man replied, as he turned away, "Alexander Graham Bell."

IV. NUGGETS OF NOURISHMENT... Remember On Memorial Day... (Sermon)

Introduction: If we look around at this time of year in the month of May and elsewhere, memorials are present to remind us. Examples might be: cemeteries some of which are well kept and others even forgotten on hillsides or in fallen timbers. Signs along the highway symbolized by white wooden crosses to memorialize those killed in traffic accidents. There is a great monument like the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington DC and the one that travels around the United States. I could go on and on with examples but it should not come to our surprise that there are memorials in God's Word. The word "remember" is used over 250 times in the Bible.

Consider: A. The Rainbow- Genesis 9:12-17

                  B. The Name of God- Exodus 3:13-14; John 8:58,59

                  C. The Passover- Exodus 12:13-14; Exodus 13:8-10

                  D. The Twelve Stones from the Jordan River- Josh.4:1-9

                  E. The Sabbath Day for the Jews- Exodus 20:8; Deut. 5:15

                  F. The Woman Who Anointed Jesus- Matt. 26:6-13

                  G. The Lord's Supper on the Lord's Day-Luke 22:15-20;Acts 20:7;

                        I Corinthians 11:23-29

Conclusion: Remembrance and Repentance are two words fused together in some remarkable ways. Revelation 2:5 to the Church of Ephesus,  the Apostle John will communicate the very words of Jesus with regard to this famous congregation. "Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lamp stand from its place--unless you repent."

APRIL "EASTER" EDITION 2019... The Cross and the Resurrection...

                                             by Dr. Keith J. Wise

I. INTRODUCTION: We are with great anticipation looking for the coming of Spring this year.  Our winter has been harsh and long and the effects of cold freezing and thawing are seen all around us.  But as of today at this writing virtually at the end of March in Michigan, I have tulips coming up, buds on my trees just waiting to bust and the scampering of squirrels and birds in my yard.  Neighbors who live near me have been tapping their sugar maples while the local radio farm shows are full of information and advise to prepare for spring and summer.  Oh, what a change is coming!  

Yes, and there is a telegraphed message to us, the peoples of this world, that the death of this world with all of its drudgery will be coming to an end through the victory of Jesus Christ over the grave.  This was not done at random or without a price however, and not accomplished without a meaning.  Let me reference you back to last years April's edition of my blog.  See side bar (April 2018).  I have numerous references there to the proofs of Christ and the resurrection. But the resurrection would have had no meaning without the Cross. Let me suggest the lyrics to one of the best old hymns you might sing to increase your appreciation of the cross.  In the Cross of Christ I Glory: "In the Cross of Christ I glory, tow'ring o'er the wrecks of time; all the light of sacred story gathering round its head sublime. When the woes of life o'er take me, hopes deceive and fears annoy, never shall the cross forsake me, Lo! it glows with peace and joy."  Another set of lyrics to another hymn also briefly speak; "...Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe, sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow..."

The history of Christianity has been its profound faith displayed in facts.  Facts of the cross and the death of the savior on a busy highway or hill outside Jerusalem in the "fullness of time." Noted persons and places from secular history surround all the events of the Bible and especially the birth and death, burial and resurrection of Jesus who is the Christ.  As the seasons speak of timing, so salvation through the shed blood of Christ for the sins of the world speak ahead of redemption now and forever until He comes again. As the Apostle Peter reminds his listeners in Acts 3:21, "...He must remain in heaven until the time comes for God to restore everything, as he promised long ago through his holy prophets..." (see Psalm 110). 

II. DIGGING DEEPER... The Final Week...A Timeline

Here is a timeline of the final week or holy week as we move to resurrection Sunday and see its power.  I want to thank Dr. Bill Patterson and his chart from The Lookout of March 29, 2015.  

DAY 1, Sunday:

• Jesus made his triumphal entry into Jerusalem.  He then spent the night in Bethany.

DAY 2, Monday:

• He walked to Jerusalem.  He cursed a fig tree.  He cleansed the temple.  He walked back to Bethany to spend the night there.

Day 3, Tuesday:

• He walked back to the temple.  Along the way he found the fig tree, now withered.
• He pronounced woes on the temple. He taught parables at the temple and answered questions.  He spent the night in Bethany.

Day 4, Wednesday:

• Scholars call this the "silent day" as Jesus stayed in Bethany.

Day 5, Thursday:

• Jesus sent Peter and John to prepare for the Passover. He traveled to Jerusalem.  He ate the Last Supper with the Twelve.  He washed to disciples' feet; Judas left.  He instituted the Lord's Supper.  He walked tot he Garden of Gethsemane and prayed.  Judas betrayed him; the Sanhedrin arrested him; the disciples fled.
• Jesus was taken to the home of the high priest.

Day 6, Friday:

• The first trial was held before Annas (who was father-in-law of Caiaphas and former high priest).
• The second (primary) trial and condemnation took place at the residence of Caiaphas, the high priest.
• The third trial happened at dawn before the Sanhedrin; Peter denied him a third time; Jesus' condemnation was repeated; guards beat and mocked Jesus; they turned him over to the Romans (who held the authority to execute him).
• The fourth trial was held before Pilate, the Roman governor.
• The fifth trial took place before Herod.  
• The sixth trial happened before Pilate; Jesus was flogged; citizens chose Barabbas rather than Jesus; Pilate turned Jesus over tot he soldiers to be crucified; the soldiers mocked him and pressed a crown of thorns onto his head.  Judas hung himself.
• Jesus and then Simon of Cyrene carried his cross to the "Place of the Skull" where soldiers crucified him around 9:00 a.m.
• Darkness descended over the land for three hours.
• Jesus gave his seven last statements from the cross.
• At 3:00 p.m. he died; the heavy veil in the holy of holies tore from top to bottom; some graves opened and the people rose; a Roman soldier pierced Jesus's side with a spear.
• Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea claimed and prepared his body and buried Jesus before sundown.

Day 7, Saturday:

• The Jewish leaders requested and Pilate granted guards for his body.
• The guards also sealed the stone, covering the mouth of his grave.

Day 8, Sunday:

Jesus rose from the dead and made appearances to his followers. 

III. DID YOU KNOW?  A note on crucifixion material...

   The documented instances of crucifixions in history have been noted in several cases including those of Jesus.  But the Archaeology had never rendered an example until in 1968 when a 'bone box' was discovered in Jerusalem containing the bones of a young child and a young man.  The inscription on the box states that the man, Yehohanan (John), had been 'hanged with knees apart'- that meant he was crucified.  The right heel bone of the man had a Roman iron nail driven through it.  The end of the nail had buckled, making it impossible to remove when the bones were later gathered into the box.

IV. NUGGETS OF NOURISHMENT... "The Aftermath of the Crucifixion"

Text: Matthew 27:55-66

Introduction: Today we live in a day of mixed messages and sometimes information static.  "Fake news" is now in our public lexicon of language. This has obliviously crept into the church and its communication to the world of the crucifixion and resurrection.  When we look at the account of Matthew in our text we notice before that the "centurion and those with him" were amazed by the miraculous events of Jesus' death and concluded, "Truly this was the Son of God."  The general tenor of the events of the crucifixion was despair. But with the aftermath of such the crucifixion there were three groups people who responded in faith and hope.

   A. The Faithful Women Mourned (vs. 55-56, 61)

   B. A Wealthy Man Pleaded (vs. 57-60).

   C. The Wicked Men Plotted (vs.62-66)

Conclusion: If you take time to look at these points and the scripture with them, you will find a host of fulfilled prophecy concerning the Messiah.  When John the Baptist saw Jesus coming to be baptized, he declare, "...behold, the Lamb of God who will take away the sin of the world."  The impact of Good Friday, the shadow of the cross before us, and eventual empty tomb behind us, we come to a new dimension of faith and reality with God.  "Whosoever will may come..." is the loving invitation of a loving God through a perfect savior and sacrifice for our sins.  Thank you God for your provision.


V. WORDS OF WISDOM FROM A BOOK OF WISDOM: PROVERBS

1. Proverbs 22:4 "True humility and fear of the LORD lead to riches, honor, and long life."NLT

2. Proverbs 22:8 "Those who plant injustice will harvest disaster, and their reign of terror will come to an end." NLT

3. Proverbs 23:12 "Commit yourself to instruction; listen carefully to words of knowledge." NLT

4. Proverbs 23:17 "Don't envy sinners, but always continue to fear the LORD." NLT

5. Proverbs 21:4 "Haughty eyes, a proud heart and evil actions are all sin." NLT

6. Proverbs 19:3 "People ruin their lives by their own foolishness and then are angry at the LORD." NLT

7. Proverbs 19:23 "Fear of the LORD leads to life, bringing security and protection from harm." NLT

MARCH EDITION- 2019- Wonderful Words of Life...Blog...by Dr. Keith J. Wise

Introduction: March is an interesting month.  This year on the weekend of the 9th and 10th we will turn our clocks "ahead" one hour.  Daylight savings time.  Winter here in the mid-west in 2019 has been especially brutal.  I think more than a few of us are looking forward to spring. Hope your spiritual calendar is on pace as we daily seek to anticipate Resurrection Sunday April 21st. Keep looking up, it is the only way to go...

DIGGING DEEPER... A Continued Look at Matthew...Did He Have An Agenda?

    The Gospel of Matthew provides an insight into one of the most interesting of the early Apostles and his writing.  It appears he was well versed in the Hebrew Scriptures and his gospel is often called a "bridge gospel" from the Old Testament.  His agenda appears to be a systematic rereading of the Hebrew Scriptures to demonstrate that Jesus fulfills the Law and the Prophets. Matthew the ultimate Proclaimer and Teacher of God's Kingdom and of God's ways through Christ Jesus the Lord.  As we read Matthew we find him providing a litany of Biblical quotes in the most emphatic but Biblical fashion.  We see the total of which amounts to some sixty references, with a wide selection of books. These range from Genesis, Deuteronomy, and Psalms, to Hosea, Isaiah,and Jeremiah to mention just a few.  We might even note some countless allusions.

    His favorite quotation formulas are: "...in order to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophets" (or: "by the prophet" Isaiah: 1:22;2:15,23:4:14;8:17;12:17;13:35;21:4;26:56), or "have you not read what David did...have you never read in the scriptures/in the law...?" (12:3,5;21:42). Undeniably, Matthew expects from his readers that they care a lot about understanding Scripture and about understanding Scripture and about making it alive in their community so as to confess its fulfillment in Jesus as the Christ.  In short, Matthew is a Christian scribe searching the scriptures and inviting his own community to do the same exercise.  In this fashion, Matthew's response to the resurrection in Matthew 28 verses 5 and following are simple, powerful and meaningful: "Do not be afraid..." "Come and See..." "Go and tell..."  Beloved, much could be and is told by Matthew in his gospel, but these three directives speak volumes to the Jewish community and to the world, the community we call the Church. 

DID YOU KNOW???

    I subscribe to a great little magazine entitled Bible Study Magazine by Logos. It often has some great insights and backgrounds to enhance one's bible study of scholarly information for the scholar or teacher.  In the March/April issue 2019 Dr. Craig Evans presents some fairly new bits of information for the teacher or student interested in Archaeology in the Biblical world.  He subtitles these as "Recent Discoveries Sharpen Our View of the Ancient World."  The golden crown of Archaeology is the acknowledgement of personalities, kings, and geographic places from scripture that are verified in tangible pieces of remains that confirm many such people lived and existed.  Dr. Evans lists several that are interesting and I thought I would list some of these in my blog.  He noted last year a clay seal(called a bulla) that read "Isaiah the prophet."  Two years earlier another seal had been found near this one which reads "Hezekiah."  He was the king of Judah and they were contemporaries.(see in books of Isaiah and II Kings)  Evans goes on to note portion of an inscription on a limestone column in which was inscribed the name "Jerusalem," fully spelled out in Aramaic as Yerushalayim.  This first century B.C. inscription gives the word Jerusalem validity since it rarely has had verification in that geographic area.  As we see these pieces unfold through the efforts of dedicated Archaeologist, new light and interest are placed on the world of the Bible.

NUGGETS OF NOURISHMENT... A Sermon on "Preparation" from Psalm 141

Text: Psalm 141

Introduction: As we move into spring, and the chill of winter subsides, we graciously look to the future in preparation.  Many of us who were boy scouts remember their standard motto, "Be Prepared."  All of us are called on to be prepared physically, mentally and morally for the hazards we all must face in life as we look to our heavenly home. There are some great recommendations from the Psalmist in terms of a preparation as we each know we will face crisis of many kinds like King David the author of Psalm 141.  This Psalm is a prayer!

A. I Will Turn to God...First. (vss. 1-2)

This is the Psalmist David speaking and indicates this should be our first reaction when crisis come.  Question: What is your default mode?  We all have one when plan "A" doesn't work. Usually our plan A is of our own devices, and as the old hymn says, "the arm of flesh will fail you, ye dare not trust your own" has been all of our tendencies.   The worldly response when crisis comes and events are not working out is to get angry, swear, worry or withdrawal.  Let God through Christ Jesus be your every button not just your default response.  Illust: Joseph Scriven, an Irish gentleman from Dublin explained his journey to God being his fist and final default.  The day before his wedding, his fiance was drowned in a swimming accident and he soon migrated to Canada.  Years later, when news came concerning the illness of his mother he scribbled the words to the poem "What A Friend We Have In Jesus."

B. I Will Ask God to Post a Guard. (vss. 3-4)

How many of us need this prayer as we begin our day? Look at verse 3: "In the morning, O Lord you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my request before you and wait in expectation."  Before this it was not that "he" put the guard over his lips, but that "God" put the guard to protect him.  He wanted the evening "sacrifices" to be view. vs.2. (these started at 3:00 pm our time.)  David also talks about the morning sacrifices in Psalm 5.  If you want to study more about this, go to Exodus 29:38-42.  These sacrifices took Time, Energy, and were often Costly. In reflection Psalm 141 is a templet for prayer.  In reality, our prayer lives become what our hearts speak through our mouths.  C.S. Lewis said: "All mortals tend to turn into the things they are pretending to be."  Let me pray with MY MOUTH, MY LIPS AND MY HEART!!

C. I Will Welcome Criticism or Reproof. (vs.5)

Read and note the following Scriptures from Proverbs...very informative and spiritually helpful- Proverbs: 9:9; 15:5; 17:10; 25:12; 27:6- This will help you get your mind around such a directive from David.  It comes from a well of resources.

D. I Will Let God Judge My Enemies. (vss. 6-7)

Since this Psalm is a prayer, let prayer be our only weapon against our enemies.

E. I Will Keep My Focus on God. (vss.8-10)

Consider the "snares," "traps," and "nets" that others lay before us.

CONCLUSION: With a prayer like this from the mind of King David and the inspiration of the the Holy Spirit, let us come to an application for a practical life-style.  This Psalm can be a blessing to you and to everyone who will apply these systems of truth.

IV. QUOTABLE QUOTES... Something to Think About...

1. Here is a story about Hecklers from the life of Benjamin Franklin-

With his sagacity and wit, Franklin was a man who thoroughly enjoyed trimming hecklers down to size.  During the early days of the American Republic, he spoke many times on the great document, the Constitution of the United States.  After one such stirring speech an uncouth fellow rose and boldly walked a few paces toward the platform. "Aw, them words don't mean nothin' a-tall!" he shouted at Franklin.  "Where's all that happiness you say it guarantees us?"

Franklin smiled benevolently at the questioner, and quickly, blandly, Old Ben replied, "My friend, the Constitution only guarantees the American people the right to pursue happiness.  You have to catch it yourself!

2. We live in the present, dream of the future, and learn wisdom from the past.

3. Strike while the iron is hot because it is little use to hammer cold metal.

                                       POEM: A LIGHTHOUSE

Let me so live that I may be

A lighthouse standing by life's sea.

When storm clouds sweep across the skies,

Let me light hope in weary eyes.

When stars blink out, and wild winds blow,

Let me show men the way to go.

When faith grows weak, and hope is lost,

Lord, let me guide the tempest-tossed.

Let me so live that I may be

A lighthouse by life's troubled sea.    (Anon.)

FEBRUARY EDITION- 2019- Wonderful Words of Life- By Dr. Keith J. Wise

                                                                 

Introduction: I looked at my February blog last year in which I began talking about aspects of this time of year.  It is winter, and at the writing of this blog in 2019 we are in the grips of some cold temperatures and a storm this last week of January for February.  A number of postings in the popular press sought to try and make us feel better by a little history lesson on the winter storm of of 1978.  It was at that time, that the meteorologist were registering the lowest barometric number in the continental United States.  Our son Aaron was a year old and the back of our neighbor's garage had blown off.  WOW...what a night and day that experience was for a young couple in Northeastern Ohio. 

That storm and that experience is now a faded memory and we fill our minds with the Springs and Summers and Falls since those eventful days. It is much as this life has been.  Jesus told us that "...in this world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." 

We have a new world coming with no sorrows or disappointments.  Our temporary difficulties here will be substituted with glorious renewal and hope beyond our expectation.  Let this February be a month in which you focus on our "blessed hope" even Jesus Christ our Lord. Thank God daily for small aspects of your life and you will have a healthy perspective and hope for the future.

II. Remembering Our Presidents...

    A lot can be said about the qualities and preferences of our Presidents. February is Presidents month and Black History month.  The model of the first President George Washington set the course of what some American Historians have called, The Common Bond.  It usually goes something like this in its rendering. At Valley Forge in the American Revolution- they pledged their cause of human dignity- a rag-tag army was saved from military disaster.  At Philadelphia it was saved from political disaster.  More than a century later, at Ford River Rouge project, it was saved from possible economic disaster.  This area near Detroit took over ten years to construct, (1917-1928)- It included 93 buildings and housed 120 conveyors over 900 acres.   

    The heroes at Valley Forge were George Washington and his small, frozen band of Continental soldiery.  At Philadelphia the heroes were the members of the convention which gave birth to the United States and our revolutionary Constitution.  At River Rouge the heroes were Henry Fort and his pioneer assemblers who demonstrated the revolutionary technique of mass production that made the automobile the envy of the world.

    Each step in the progress of our great American Revolution has brought emancipation to people- more from the participating in and sharing.  Said Washington: "I can clearly foresee that nothing but the rooting out of slavery can perpetuate the existence of our nation by consolidating in a common bond of principle."  Lighted by these words, the pattern of our unfolding Revolution becomes clear- from the drafty cabins at Valley Forge to the crowded parking lot  at River Rouge.

    The key to our way of life is participation, partnership in human dignity.  That is the meaning of freedom-military, political, economic- as we Americans have come to enjoy it.  This is the "common bond of principle" we, as free men and women, must consolidate and carry into the future hope based on a living God. 

III. Digging Deeper...Why Do We Appeal to Fulfilled Prophecy To Document Inspiration?

    Over the years as a minister and a college professor, I have been asked to prove or present a defence for the scriptures being trustworthy as a reliable feature of faith.  The sources have always been out there and have been noted over at least the last century.  The Apostle Peter, after testifying that he had seen Jesus Christ in all His glory, said, "And so we have the prophetic word made more sure, to which you do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts..." (II Peter 1:19, NASB).  Peter is here seeing to appeal to the position of fulfilled prophecy as a witness to the truth of Scripture.

    The Bible itself gives the purpose of prophecy, "Remember the former things long past, for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is no one like Me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things which have not been done..." (Isaiah 46:9,10-NASB). 

    The New Testament spoke of the coming of Jesus Christ, "Which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy Scriptures" (Romans 1:1-4, RSV). 

    The testimony of the scriptures is that the purpose of prophecy is to let us know that God exists and the He has a plan for this world.  By the foretelling of persons, places and events hundreds of years before their occurrence, the the Bible demonstrates a knowledge of the future that is too specific to be labeled a good guess.  By giving examples of fulfilled prophecy, the scriptures give a strong testimony to their own inspiration.

    A good example of this would be the prophecy of King Cyrus the Persian.(Ish.44:28; 45:1).  The prophet Isaiah, writing about 700B.C. prior,  predicts Cyrus by name as the king who will say to Jerusalem that it shall be built and that the temple foundation shall be laid.  What is truly remarkable about this prophecy is that at the time of Isaiah predicted this event, the city of Jerusalem and the temple were standing.  About a hundred years later is when we have the record of King Nebuchadnezzar destroying the city and temple in Jerusalem and the seventy year exile of the southern Kingdom of Judah had officially commenced. (Approx.586B.C.)

    As we read the story of people, places and events in the seeming hopeless situation of the children of Israel, we know they would be rescued in a remarkable fashion. The last king of Babylon, Belshazzar, finds himself surrounded by a Persian army and the city of Babylon passing into the hands of Cyrus.  Just as predicted by Isaiah, one hundred and sixty years after his prophecy, king Cyrus by edict, recorded on the Cyrus Cylinder, allow the Jews to leave Babylon and rebuild the temple. Later, under another Persian King Darius, the Cupbearer Nehemiah would rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.

    This is a small sliver of the many prophecies that predicted the will of God in the life of Israel in the preparation for the coming of the Messiah Jesus Christ to save the world.  If you are a reader of the New Testament there is a marvelous testimony of who Jesus was and is to us.  In the fourth chapter of John there is the wonderful story of the women at the well.  She has a magnificent encounter with Jesus at Sychar in Samaria. However, it is most telling to us that the Samaritans of that area pleaded with Jesus to stay with them and for two days as he taught them because of the testimony of this women.  In fact that two day Bible Study provoked a marvelous response that predicts the awesome expanse of Jesus' kingdom.  The Samaritans say in verse 42 "...They (the Samaritans) said to the women, "We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world." (NIV)

     Think about this, before the faith of the Apostles, the preaching of Pentecost, these Samaritans who were so despised by the Jewish community declare a Christian message of salvation with Jesus Christ in their presence.  Certainly this is not the end of the story, for if you read on in the New Testament in Acts 8 in the first twenty five verses, you read about the great revival of Philip the Evangelist to the Samaritans.

IV. Did You Know?  Luke is an Accurate Historian.

    In his Gospel and Acts, Luke names 117 separate living people, 114 towns, provinces, islands, seas and other identifiable places, and 25 policatial, military, social religious events in history. 

    Luke's order of events and location of towns and provinces, his knowledge of Roman administration, censuses and regiments, his naming of national and local officials and of Jewish rituals, law and festivals, are all faultless. 

     Any number of noted historians and scholars with no particular ax to grind, have provided persuasive and noted sources for the historical, meaningful and reliable sources.  Often noted as a celebrated scholar, Sir William Ramsay who after long detailed information said: "Christianity did not originate in a lie and we can and must demonstrate this."

     It comes as a surprise to many that in the first century multitudes of adults were literate.  For instance, every Jewish male was expected to be able to read and it was common for civil servants and other to use 'notebooks' for their work.  Matthew, Zacchaeus, the centurion, and the estate workers in the parable of Luke 16:6  were each able to read and write.  Archaeology has produced marriage and divorce documents, food lists, orders for merchandise, soldier's pay slips, legal documents and graffiti and so on.  Moreover, texts were often written in more than one language.  The text above the cross was written in Aramaic, Latin and Greek (John 19:19-20).

    The now discredited idea that the New Testament gospels and literature were not written until well into the second century, has been largely rejected.  With a PhD in Greco-Roman studies, I can tell you that the culture of the first century in which Jesus appears was sophisticated, educated, and responsive to the Christian message that change its world and ours.  We can speak and proclaim with confidence the truth of Christ and the events surrounding his life. We have an enduring message.

    

 V. Nuggets of Nourishment... Sermon: Prayer-The Knowledge of His Will

Text: Colossians 1:9-15

Introduction: Paul, like Jesus, was a man of prayer.  He was constantly praying for others. (Rom. 1:9; Phil. 1:4; and I Thess. 1:2).   He asked the local congregations to pray for him. (Eph.6:19; I Thess. 5:25).  He also noted that there were some universal elements of prayer.  In short, the passage above presents these elements described as:

A. Spiritual Vision: (vs. 9 above)

      1.)Receiving the truth- "asking God."

      2.)Realizing the truth- "knowledge" and "spiritual wisdom."

      3.)Relating the truth- "understanding."

B. Spiritual Vitality: (vs.10 above)

     1.) In the walk ("live a life") of the Christian Life.

     2.) In the work ("bearing fruit in every good work") of the Christian life.

     3.) In the wonder ("growing in the knowledge of God") of the Christian life.

 C. Spiritual Victory: (vs.11-15)

     1. Its secret-(vs. 11-13) "...giving thanks..." (vs.11-13).

     2. Its success- (vs.14) "redemption" (vs.14). 

     3. Its source- (vs. 15) Christ- "the image of the invisible God..."

Conclusion: A man once confessed he had trouble falling asleep.  He asked his Christian friend if he ever had such a problem.  He inquired, "Do you count sheep?"  No replied the Christian man, "I talk to the Shepherd."  So may we each one of us talk to the shepherd of our souls.

VI. Quotable Quotes... Some short but profound truths to live by...

Some thoughts on Laughter: by Wilfred A. Peterson

In the midst of a cold February have you taken any time to just laugh at yourself or read a humorous story?  Take a tip from Will Rogers, who observed people with laughter in his eyes and love in his heart and declared: "I never met a man I didn't like."  Learn laughter from little children by thinking their thoughts, dreaming their dreams, and by playing their games.  Practice the advice of a the psychiatrist who gives his normal patients this prescription: "Don't take yourself too seriously." Remember the old proverb: "A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men."  Inject laughter into tense situations to save the day; laughter calms tempers and soothes jangled nerves.  Guard yourself against the gloomy outlook by recalling the wise statement of Henry Ward Beecher: "A man without mirth is like a wagon without springs...jolting so disagreeably by every pebble in the road."  Most of all, learn to laugh at yourself; meet each day with a sense of humor, and be guided by the words of the poet who wrote: "I laugh, for hath happy place for me.  If my bark sink, 'tis to another sea."  Laughter is the best medicine for a long and happy life.  He who laughs...lasts!