Genesis 4 “Cain And Abel”

“So it came about in the course of time that Cain brought an offering to the LORD of the fruit of the ground. Abel, on his part, also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of their fat portions. And the LORD had regard for Abel and for his offering; but for Cain and for his offering He had no regard. So Cain became very angry and his countenance fell. Then the LORD said to Cain, “Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen? If you do well, will not your countenance be lifted up? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door; and its desire is for you, but you must master it.” (vv.4-7)

This account can be hard to understand. It seems as if Abel and Cain brought similar offerings to the Lord, and that the Lord accepted one offering and rejected the other for apparently no good reason. In fact, people sometimes look toward this passage to claim that God is capricious. But a closer look at the text reveals the opposite.

First, notice that Genesis 4:3 tells us that Cain brought “some of the fruits of the soil” to the Lord. We have no indication what the quality of this produce was; we certainly have no hint that it was the best of the harvest. Now, notice that verse 4 tells us that Abel brought the “fat portions from some of the firstborn of his flock.” The fat portions were the best pieces of meat. Additionally, the firstborn always indicated something prized. In other words, Abel gave from the best of what he had, while Cain offered whatever he was willing to spare. This brings us to the “heart” of worship.

Abel's offering showed honor to God, true gratitude, and worship (Hebrews 11:4). Cain's offering was at the least careless—he didn't offer his first-fruits—and his response revealed an even deeper bitterness or anger. Despite a warning from the Lord about sin “crouching at your door,” he lured his brother out to a field and killed him (Gen 4:6).

As a result, God punished Cain professionally (farming would become difficult), personally (exiled from home and family to be a “restless wanderer”), and spiritually (“hidden” from God's presence). But He also showed him mercy. He had already been gracious in warning him against temptation and implicitly offering him a second chance to “do right” (v.7). And, after the murder, He showed more mercy by putting some kind of mark on Cain to protect him from vengeance.

Though Cain does not appear repentant in today’s reading, God still showed him mercy. And, but for the grace of God there go we. For we sin, we mess-up, we fall short of the mark, but God’s mercies are there waiting for us, new every morning. Therefore, let us not be angry with God for our own short comings and lash out against others. But let us seek His forgiveness, accept His discipline, and be greatful for His mercy.   

The Truth: “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22-23) 

Genesis 3 "The Deceiver"

 “You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman. “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” (vv.4-5)

One of Satan’s most effective tactics down through the ages has been deception. He is a master at making things appear what they are not. A mixture of truth and error seems to serve his purposes much better than total error. He is delighted when a person turns over a new leaf or engages in good works, just as long as he continues to reject the provision of God’s grace in salvation.

Here in Genesis 3, we see that God alone knows the difference between good and evil. God’s prohibition concerning the tree in the garden was intended to protect Adam and Eve from knowledge they could not bear. But the serpent tempted Eve with the very thing that had ruined him, the desire to be like God (Gen. 3:5). 

The results were disastrous. Adam and Eve experienced shame (v.7), alienation from God (v.8), and deception (v.12). Eventually they would suffer death as well. But notice that the serpent was cursed (v.14), not Adam and Eve. Although there were consequences for their rebellion (toil and pain), Adam and Eve actually received a promise-that an offspring would crush the head of the serpent (v.15).

Genesis 3 shows us that God provides a way of redemption for humans, but not the serpent. He has revealed to us through this chapter that humanity is worth saving, and will show the depths of His grace and mercy to save mankind by offering up His only Son as a sinless sacrifice for all. 

Yet Genesis 3 is also the foundation of the great battle between good and evil. One that shall be waged between the two seeds; the seed of the woman (which will be the lineage that leads to Jesus Chris), and the seed of the serpent, (the lineage of this non-believing world) which eventual leads to the birth and career of the man referred to in scripture as the anti-Christ.

The final result we see in verse 15, the serpent will bruise the heel of the woman’s seed (a metaphor for the crucifixion of Jesus Christ), the woman’s seed will crush the head of the serpent (Satan was defeated by Jesus Christ upon His resurrection form Calvary’s cross). Since the very day of this pronouncement, the Devil has continually tried to destroy the seed of the woman. Yet, he has failed in every attempt. 

This demonic persecution of the seed of Eve (and the nation of Israel in general) has gone on throughout history. Why? Kill the seed and you win the battle. From Cane and Abel, to Herod, to the Pharisees, to the Cross, Satan has tried to kill the physical seed and was unsuccessful. Today Jesus sits at the right hand of the Father waiting until the fullness of the gentiles comes in - still providing a way of redemption until the day of His coming. Then every eye will see and every tongue will confess Him as LORD. 

The Truth: “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12)

Genesis 2 "Two Become One'"

 And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall on Adam, and he slept; and He took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh in its place. Then the rib which the LORD God had taken from man He made into a woman, and He brought her to the man. And Adam said: "This is now bone of my bones And flesh of my flesh; She shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man." Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed. (vv.21-25)

Here we read that God used Adam’s own body to create Eve to forever remind him of their essential oneness, made of the same substance. Alike and yet different different. There is a beautiful Jewish traditional saying of why God made woman from one of Adam's ribs; "not out of man’s foot to be under him, nor out of his head to be over him, but she was taken from under his arm that he might protect her and from next to his heart that he might love her.” 

So, God created Eve out of Adam and brought her to him. He was first – the source and the head. She was created second to be a helper perfectly suited to him. Thus the subordinate relationship of wives to husbands is found before the curse, not after it. We see in Adam's comment, "This is now bone of my bones" that Adam recognized Eve was both like him (bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh) and not like him (woman… taken out of man). They were one, but they were not the same. He understood that two different people were becoming one. 

The scriptures tell husbands to recognize that they are one with someone different, someone whom they must understand: "Likewise, you husbands, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel" (1 Peter 3:7).  Elisabeth Elliot in answering to the question, "If men and women are different, are they equal? said: “In what sense is red equal to blue? They are equal only in the sense that both are colors in the spectrum. Apart from that they are different. In what sense is hot equal to cold? They are both temperatures, but beyond this it is almost meaningless to talk about equality.”

This passage of becoming one flesh, forms the foundation for the Bible’s understanding of marriage and family. Both Jesus (Matthew 19: 5) and Paul (Ephesians 5:31) quoted it in reference to marriage. The idea of one flesh is taken by many to be mainly a way of expressing sexual union. While sexual union is certainly related to the idea of one flesh, it is only one part of what it means to be one flesh. There are also important spiritual dimensions to one flesh. The fullness of what God wants to do in the one flesh relationship takes time. It has to become.

Finally, the last part of our text reads, "Adam and Eve were both naked… and not ashamed." David Guzik writes of this, "The idea of “nakedness” is far more than mere nudity. It has the sense of being totally open and exposed as a person before God and man. To be naked… and not ashamed means you have no sin, nothing to be rightly ashamed of, and nothing to hide." And before the "Fall," this was true for both of them, they had nothing to hide from God....until they sinned, but that's another story for another time.

TheTruth: "Have you not read," Jesus replied, "that at the beginning the Creator made them male and female, and said,'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh." (Matthew 19:5)

The Coming King - Palm Sunday

Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold your King is coming to you; He is just and having salvation, lowly and riding on a donkey, a colt, the foal of a donkey." (Zechariah 9:9)

Here the prophet Zechariah describes the 1st coming of Jesus over 500 years before it occurred. He correctly refers to Him as, "having salvation." Therefore, when Jesus did enter Jerusalem riding on a donkey, as prophesied, the people cried, "Hosanna!" or, literally, "Save now!" (Matthew 21:9). They were hoping Jesus had come to save them from the Roman government and establish His kingdom on earth now.

As Jesus drew near to the city Luke's gospel tells us "He wept," because the people did not know the scriptures well enough to understand the reason for His first coming (v.41-44), and those who did (scribes, chief priests Pharisees) were scheming to kill Him out of fear and jealousy. As news of His arrest and interrogation became public, and His expected kingship here on earth began to fade, many of those same people who cried "Hosanna" were now crying, "Crucify Hm."

While the Jews were looking for a savior to liberate them from Roman rule, the purpose for Jesus' first coming was to die for the sins of the world, to be the perfect sacrifice for you and for me. Though many are still looking for Messiah, may we not miss the fact and purpose of His first coming, because His second coming will be much different.

The Truth
"But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up." (2 Peter 3:10)

Genesis 1 “God Created”

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” (v.1)

Many people get hung up on this verse. They just can’t accept the idea of creation. But is that truly the case? Anyone who looks at the grandeur of the universe and denies the existence of a Creator is suppressing the truth. Why, because, men do not want to be accountable to this creator. It eases their conscious to believe in evolution.

Keep in mind evolution at best is a theory – and an empty one at that. Many scientists have turned away from this hypothesis because it breaks the basic second scientific law of, “Thermodynamics.” This basic principle states everything goes from order to disorder, discounting the Big Bang theory of disorder to order. 

The bottom line here is whether you believe that the complexities of this universe and all that is on and in it just happened. What are the odds on that? Would you bet your life on it? I for one would not!

Creation speaks to me of a creator, and the heavens testify to that every day. This world did not come about by happenstance any more than man crawled out of some puddle of muddy water. God created it all. 

The Truth: “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament show His handywork. Day unto day they utter speech, and night unto night they show knowledge. There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.” (Psalm 19:1-3)

3 John " Caring For The LORD’s Workers"

“Beloved, you do faithfully whatever you do for the Brethern and for strangers.” (v.5)

John's third epistle was probably written around AD 90 from the island of Patmos, where John was exiled at the time. John wrote his letter to Gaius, a leader of one or more churches in Asia Minor. The apostle had received a report of some difficulties caused by a man named Diotrephes, and John wrote to reinforce for Gaius the proper way to deal with, “caring for the LORD’s workers.”

John wanted to ensure a warm welcome from the churches to those who traveled around preaching the gospel, offering them hospitality and a send-off “in a manner worthy of God” (v.6). John is instructing his friend Gaius not to be like Diotrephes, who had taken control of one of the churches there and used his power to ban certain traveling missionaries from coming to the church at all. He refused to welcome those traveling ministers of the gospel to preach and take rest with his church. And even worse, upon receiving an earlier correction from John, Diotrephes refused to listen (v.9). 

This is a good reminder to us all to show our gratitude to those who minister to us, by ministering to them in some small way. I thank God for the love and devotion I've seen in many church bodies here in Southern California, and the hospitality displayed by so many in the body of Christ to strangers during this pandemic. But, let us also not forget those traveling teachers, those who may be passing through, and send them off in a manner worthy of God as well. 

The Truth: "Don't you know that those who serve in the temple get their food from the temple, and that those who serve at the altar share in what is offered on the altar? In the same way, the LORD has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel." (1 Corinthians 9:13-14)  

2 John "Walk In Truth And Love"

 “This is love, that we walk according to His commandments (truth). This is the commandment, that as you have heard from the beginning, you should walk in it (Love). And this is love, that we walk after His commandments.” (v.5-6)

Truth and Love are essential in our walk as Christians. Here in today's reading, John commends the “elect lady” for walking in the truth (v.4), but he reminds her of the command to love (vv.5-6).

Truth without love can make a person harsh, aloof, and unapproachable. Many churches are dogmatic in truth but lack love and grace. They do not experience truth; they just assert it. They are sound in doctrine, but sound asleep in in love and grace. The Pharisees of 2000 years ago believed their Bible, but they were dead to a vital walk with God. Walking in the truth is more than believing the truth. It is practicing the truth and this involves loving one another. 

On the other hand, love without truth is just as dangerous. It can allow problems to grow unchecked, take root in the church, and in our lives. A believer who truly loves, walks “in the truth" as proof that he/she loves God, and will keep His commandments.

Jesus said, “If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you” (John 15:10).

Walking by truth alone can be as dry as pine straw. It is “Love” that makes obedience light. Keeping God’s will out of a sense of duty or obligation and with little love for God, is not true love. True love is a response to God from the heart, and obedience follows. Therefore, "walk in truth" and “love one another" even as Christ loved you and gave His life for you.

The Truth: “He who has my commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.” (John 14:21)

1 John 5 "Eternal Life Through Jesus"

 "He that believes on the Son of God has a witness in himself. And this is the record, that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.” (vv.10-11)

The theme of life is central to all of John's writing, including his Gospel and his letters. In them, life is always identified with Jesus. Jesus Himself is the life (1 John 5:20; John 14:6). To “have Jesus” is to be in-dwelt by His Spirit, where God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit make their home in us as believers (John 14:23).

Here in chapter 5, verses 10 and 11 mention two gifts from God given to us as believers. First, His Spirit (the witness in us) of the testimony about His Son (Jesus), and second, that through Him (Jesus), God gives eternal life.

Life itself can often feel like observing a live sporting event. There are shocks and surprises, frustrations and fears, even sometimes a bit of anxiety, because we are unsure of the outcome. Every follower of Jesus (at some point in life) will experience moments just like that. Even to the point of questioning the certainty of eternal life.

But John writes to establish for us an unquestionable confidence: “So that we may know we have eternal life” (v. 13). This assurance does not come from a feeling or state of being, but results from belief in the reality of God's gift in Jesus, confirmed in His life, death, resurrection, and sealed to us by the comforter, His Spirit.

Yes life may present us with surprises along the way, but because of Christ’s finished work on the cross, and His resurrection from the grave, we can have His peace, for He has already settled our eternal outcome.

The Truth: “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and not of yourselves. It is the gift of God.” (Ephesians 2:8)

1 John 4 "God Is Love"

 “God is love; and he that lives in love lives in God, and God in him.” (v.16)

Have you ever seen a person whose countenance was so joyful that you were attracted to them because they seemed to have no worries at all? Love can give one such an extreme confidence and self-security in their life, that it just bubbles over into others. Here in chapter 4 John is describing living in that kind of love, God’s perfect love.

Living in the love of God means we are confident of His love for us. So confident, that no matter what comes our way in this life, we know our loving heavenly Father (who’s Spirit is in us), has only our best interest in mind. John tells us, “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out all fear” (v.18). Meaning, when you are sure of God’s love for you, you don’t have to fear. Oh you can chose to fear, fret, doubt, even despair, but that usually comes when we take our minds off of God’s perfect love for us, which He demonstrated at Calvary's cross.

Therefore, keep your mind stayed on Him, do not give any quarter of your heart to doubt, and He will give you His perfect peace. 

The Truth: “God will keep those in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Him’ (Isaiah 26:3).

1 John 3 "Everlasting Life, Or God's Wrath - Your Choice"

 “He that believes on the Son has everlasting life: and he that believes not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God stays on him.” (v.36)

The major topic of chapter 3 is the kingdom of God. Nicodemus, a Pharisee, came to Jesus by night, voiced his recognition of God’s power residing in Jesus by saying, "Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do the signs that You do unless God is with Him" (v.2). Nicodemus here seemed more interested in the power Jesus had displayed in performing miracles, than in who Jesus actually was. 

But Jesus instead of engaging Nicodemus in a conversation about His power, chose to speak to him about the kingdom of God saying, "Unless one is born of water and the spirit, he can not enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I say to you, 'You must be born again' (vv.5-7).

The gospel is that simple, one must be born into the spirit go God by accepting His Son, not because He can do powerful miracles, but because of who He died and rose again, that He is seated at the right hand of the Father, and is preparing a place for us in His kingdom forever.

The Truth: ”For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him, should not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)

1 John 2 "Our Atoning Sacrifice"

 "My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense - Jesus Christ, The Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.” (vv.1-2)

Here the apostle John is admonishing the church not to sin. However, he also tells his readers that when they falter and give into their sinful nature, Jesus Christ, The Righteous One, stands in there (our) defense, and not just for them, but for the entire world.

Jesus himself in speaking on the subject of forgiveness said, “Every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven” (Matthew 12:31). Meaning, one can not continue to deny the calling of the Holy Spirit speaking to one’s heart to come to come Jesus, and expect to find salvation. John speaking on the subject of knowing God wrote, “The man who declares to know God, but does not follow His commandments is hence forth a liar and truth does not live in him” (v.4).

Many people today claim to be Christians, but the love of God and the Word of God are not evident in their lives. Others, flat out deny Him. And because both have not accepted Jesus as LORD of their lives, they are not considered His children and His mercy does not apply. This is not because He is not willing that all should be saved, but because some men love darkness rather than light, while others want to remain of the world and not set themselves apart from it. In either case, not admitting their need for a savior.

John then goes on to say, to those who are obedient to His word, God's love is truly made complete in them (v.5), and they will walk as Jesus did (v.6), as children of the light, for His Spirit lives in them. Then, when they stumble, He will be there as an Advocate to the Father, interceding with His righteousness, and blotting out their sins.

All one needs to do to be a part of His family, His grace, His forgiveness, is to call upon the name of the Lord, confess you are a sinner in need of salvation, ask Him to rule and reign in your heart and life, and He will send His Spirit to live within you and guide you into all truth.

Hallelujah! What a savior.

The Truth: "Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” (Hebrews 4:14-16)

1 John 1 "The Cleansing Blood"

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (v.9)

John Steinbeck once observed that failure is often a catalyst for spiritual growth. “If everything is coming your way,” he wrote, “you are probably in the wrong lane. Adversity and defeat are more conducive to spiritual growth, than prosperity and victory.” But what if the defeat we experience, involves more than a setback in our circumstances? What if we have experienced defeat because of our own sin?

The Bible is filled with stories of people whose mistakes and failures, were redeemed by God. Consider Jacob the deceiver, Judah the father of an illegitimate child, David the adulterer, and Rahab the prostitute, which even appear in the lineage of Jesus (Matt. 1:2–5). Peter denied Jesus three times, and Thomas questioned whether Jesus had truly risen from the dead. Paul persecuted the church. And yet, all of these were used by God, despite their past failings.

What restores us, cleanses us, brings us back into fellowship with Him despite our failures? The blood of Jesus Christ. Therefore go boldly before the throne of grace, confess your sin before our God, and He promises to forgive and restore (Romans 8:1-4). We can’t cleanse our own hearts; only God can do that. If we confess our sins to Him, He promises to make us totally clean! 

The Truth: “Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin." (Psalm 51:2)

Malachi 4 "Restoration of The Heart"

“Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet, before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD. And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers; lest I come and smite the land with a curse.” (v.6)

In this unique promise, God assured His people that He would send Elijah to Israel again before the great and dreadful day of the LORD. Whether you believe that this passage is speaking literally of Elijah the prophet (Malachi 4:5), or figuratively of John the Baptist (in the spirit and power of Elijah, Luke 1:17), it doesn’t change the message. Both men spoke and acted in the power of the Spirit of God, as His mouthpiece, to His people. The message of restoration is what’s important here along with the warning of what would happen if not accepted. 

It is significant though that in these closing words of the Old Testament, God makes reference to both Moses and Elijah. They both met God at Mount Sinai (Exodus 3:1; 1 Kings 19:8-18). They also both met Jesus at the Mount of Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-5), and they are probably the two witnesses of Revelation 11.

In anticipation of this (Elijah's return), Jewish homes set a place at the table for Elijah at Passover, just in case he might come on that night to announce the news that Messiah has come. The empty chair and the cup that is filled but never drank is a testimony to their anticipation of Elijah’s coming. The promise of, "returning the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the children to their fathers," speaks of more than the reconciliation of families. When God turns the hearts of the children to their fathers, it also has in mind turning to the God of their fathers, to the faith of the patriarchs.

God has always honored free will, dating all the way back to the garden of Eden. Here again a choice is given. Some would head the warning and turn back to the beliefs of their fathers while others did not and would experience a curse. This would be the last prophetic word heard for over 400 years, as “the silent years” would begin, creating a thrust for His word. 

I'm so glad He broke the silence and in these last days has spoken to us by His Son.

The Truth: "I God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds; who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins and sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high." (Hebrews 1:1-3)

Malachi 3 "Preparing The Way"

“Behold, I send My messenger, and he will prepare the way before Me. And the Lord, whom you seek, will suddenly come to His temple, even the Messenger of the covenant, in whom you delight. Behold, He is coming,” Says the LORD of hosts." (v.1)

This prophesied messenger is none other than John the Baptist. Matthew 11:10, Mark 1:2, and Luke 7:27 each show this promise was fulfilled in John the Baptist. At the end of Malachi 2, Israel complained that God seemed to reward the wicked and did not exercise His justice in the world. God responds to their complaint by saying, “I will set things right with My Messiah, and before Him will come My messenger.”

In an ancient royal procession the messenger went before the King to announce his arrival, to indicate the route, and to remove any obstacles in the road. John the Baptist fulfilled this exact ministry for Jesus. The same idea is indicated in Isaiah 40:3-5. God’s purpose for bringing this specific prophecy through Malachi in his day was probably because Israel complained that the Messianic promises of Haggai and Zechariah were not fulfilled. Here Malachi showed that the way for the Messiah must be prepared, and they were not ready yet.

Then, in the last portion of this verse we read, "Even the Messenger of the covenant in whom you delight:" This second messenger is none other than the LORD Himself – Jesus coming to His temple as the fulfillment of the old covenant and to institute a new covenant.

Malachi 3:1 speaks of two messengers to come – one to prepare the way of the LORD, and one to be the Messenger of the covenant. The coming that man must endure is not the coming of the Messenger of the covenant, but it is His second coming. For, "Who can endure The Day of His coming?"

The message is the same today, repent, change and be saved for "the Day of the LORD is at hand."

The Truth: This is the one about whom it is written: "'I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.” (Luke 7:27)

Malachi 2 “Where Is The God Of Judgment?”

“You have wearied the LORD with your words. Yet you say, Wherein have we wearied him? When you say, every one that does evil is good in the sight of the LORD, and he delights in them; or, Where is the God of judgment?” (v.17)

The people of God in Malachi’s day were depressed and discouraged because it seemed like the wicked prospered and had it better than the godly. This filled them with doubt and unbelief, and they grumbled that everyone who does evil is good in the sight of the LORD. When they compared themselves with others, they thought it was unjust of God to bless others and not them. Not a good thing to vocalize, for God is offended when people accuse Him of injustice.

Nevertheless their question, "Where is the judgment of God," shows that they don’t understand what the God of justice would give to them. This kind of ignorant, unbelieving talk from God’s people is wearisome to Him. It shows how much His people resist His truth and His work.

One should never make the mistake that God favors the wicked and has no respect for those that serve Him (as was done by the people and priests of Malachi’s day), least you fall into the trap of thinking, "He is not going to mete our justice." As Solomon warned, “Because the sentence against an evil deed is not executed quickly, therefore the hearts of the sons of men among them are given fully to do evil.” (Eccl.8:11) 

Getting away with evil for the moment doesn't mean that judgment will not be served. Some wrongs are not discovered by men, but nothing misses the eyes of Him with whom we are to stand before. Where is the God of judgment? He is coming, and sooner than you think.

The Truth: “Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands of His saints, to execute judgment on all, to convict all who are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have committed in an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things which ungodly sinners have spoken against Him.” 

Malachi 1 "The Messenger"

“The burden of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi.” (v.1)

One Hundred years after Zechariah and Haggai had encouraged the people of Israel to rebuild their walls and their temple, the Lord sends His messenger Malachi to wake up the people once more, who had become complacent and lukewarm in their hearts, which signified the loss of compassion and fire. This can happen on the heels of success when one backs off or feels content – just as it did with the people Israel, after completing the rebuilding of their walls and their temple. 

Malachi would bring a lot of specific correction for Israel, but before God corrected them, He assured them of His love by saying, “I have loved you,” says the LORD (v.1). Yet even though this statement was met with question by the people, “Yet you say, ‘In what way have You loved us?’ Was not Esau Jacob’s brother?" (v.2), it set a foundation for their later obedience. God wanted Israel to find assurance in His election, His choice of them. He wanted them to understand that they were chosen and remained His chosen and favored people despite their complacent hearts.  

The same holds true for us. God loves us and never stops pursuing us, even in our times of rebellion. Therefore, keep moving forward in your walk, keep studying God’s Word, do not become complacent toward Him. Stay hot, not lukewarm, for He never becomes lukewarm towards us.

The Truth: “But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear Him, and His righteousness unto their children's children." (Psalm 103:17)

2 Peter 3 "The Return of the King"

“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is long-suffering toward us, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” (v.9)

Verses 1-9 of this chapter cover the subject of the Lord and His delayed return. Early in this first section Peter is reminding the brethren that the prophets, the apostles, and even Jesus himself said, “in the last days there shall come scoffers saying, where is the promise of his coming” (vv.1-4)? 

He then goes on to remind the brethren that there was another time in human history when men scoffed, during the time of Noah (vv.5-6). Day after day while he was constructing the Ark, Noah heard the voices of the scoffers (for over 100 years), then came the rain, and the skeptic voices changed to pleas for help - not spiritual salvation mind you (for they were not desiring to save their souls), but physical salvation from the flood. In that regard there was nothing Noah could do, for the appointed time had come and God closed and sealed the Ark doors. 

Today God is still patiently waiting, just like the time given man before the catastrophic flood of Noah’s day, delaying His second coming - giving man time to repent again, for He is not willing that any should perish. However, just as the days of Noah, their is an appointed time when His long-suffering toward man will end. 

Peter then goes on to encourage the brethren that even through the waiting God is still in control (v.7), and waits in a realm where a day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day (v.8). I thank God for His long-suffering, for without it, I would have been among the scoffers. Now I pray for His grace to continue for yet a little while longer, so others might be brought into His arms of love and salvation, for in heavenly time, the “Return of the King” is not far off.

The Truth: "For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17)

2 Peter 2 "The LORD Will Deliver The Godly"

 “The Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished.” (v.9)

Chapter 2 has been described as both a warning and an encouragement by Peter to those he cares about. He warns concerning; false teachers, and the bringing of damnable heresies that deny the Lord (vv.1-2), he warns against those who would make merchandise of God’s people (v.3), against those who live ungodly lives and walk after the flesh (vv.5-6), against those who despise government, and speak evil of dignitaries (v.10), and he warns of the judgment that awaits those who partake of theses things. And when we look at these warnings listed in verses 1-10, one can'y help but see the correlation to what is going on all around us today. 

But, Peter also encourages his flock that God knows how to deliver the Godly out of temptations, out of judgment, and out of destruction, as He did with Lot and his family, and Noah and his family (vv.5-6). And I believe, along with many others, this also speaks to how God will deliver His church (in the Rapture) from the great tribulation described in Revelation 6-19. Then, as in times past, “He will pour out His wrath, and the unjust shall be punished.”  

Therefore, rest in this, God will always take care of His people. He knows how to deliver.

The Truth: "For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage one another with these words.” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18)

2 Peter 1 “The Inspired Scriptures”

 "For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” (v.21)

Where did Scripture come from? What is the basis of our faith in the Bible and the Gospel? Peter wants us to realize that the prophets of ancient times didn't make up their own private stories. Instead, they only moved and responded to what God was doing in them, not what they themselves wanted to do or say. They were human, but their message was God's word because the Holy Spirit moved them to speak and guided their words. This makes what we have in Scripture from the prophets more than precious, for we are given the very words of God!

One thousand years before Jesus Christ came, men of old, prophets, were moved by the Holy Spirit to post prophetic signs that would point to Him as the Messiah. Moved by the Spirit men like David, Isaiah, Micah, Zecharaiah, and Malachi wrote of the following events; “The Messiah’s hands and feet would be pierced” (Psalm 22:16). “The Messiah would not open His mouth to defend Himself” (Isaiah 53:7); “The Messiah would be buried in the tomb of a rich man, though He was destined for burial with the wicked” (Isaiah 53:9); “The Messiah would be born in the town of Bethlehem: (Micah 5:2); “The Messiah would ride into the Holy City on the back of a donkey” (Zechariah 9:9); “He would be betrayed by a friend for thirty pieces of silver” (Zechariah 11:12); and that the silver would be used to buy a potters field (Zechariah 11:13); The Messiah would have a “forerunner announcing His coming” (Malachi 3:1). 

These are but eight of the 300 prophecies recorded in the Scriptures of the Messiah before He appeared. The “Law of Compound Probabilities” tells us that the chances of one man fulfilling these eight prophecies is 1 in 10 to the 28 power. In other words 1 in 100000000000000000000000000000 - Or as Pastor Chuck use to say, “You could cover the state of Texas with silver dollars two feet deep, mark one of them with a red X, tell a friend to wonder around the state and choose one silver dollar. Those are the odds of any one person fulfilling just eight of the 300 prophecies, yet Jesus fulfilled them all. Thus proving beyond any doubt that, "prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but it came from God through the Holy Spirit."

It seems that Peter understood that his (and the other apostles’ writings) would carry the same weight as the words of the prophets and that he knew they were writing Holy Scripture (2 Peter 1:12-15; 2 Peter 3:16). Like the prophets of the Old Testament, Peter and the other authors of the books of the New Testament were careful to write only what God inspired through the Holy Spirit as well. 

Men die, experiences fade, but the Word endures. As our world grows darker, His Word shines brighter, and I thank God for the truth of the Scriptures.

The Truth:  "But when He, the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on His own; He will speak only what He hears, and He will tell you what is yet to come.” (John 16:13)

1 Peter 5 "The Marks of a True Shepherd"

 "Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed, to shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness; nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.” (vv.1-4) 

What are the marks of a true shepherd? Our text describes four - attitude, purpose, manner, and accountability. True shepherds do their work with an attitude of willingness, not out of a sense of obligation (v. 2a). Second, the true shepherd's purpose is to serve others, rather than leading in order to serve one's own needs (v. 2b). Third, we see that a true leader does not “lord it over” others, seeking power and authority; rather, they offer a humble “example to the flock” (v. 3). And finally, a true shepherd of God's flock will always remember that there is a Chief Shepherd to whom they are accountable as well (v.4). 

Ultimately, it is Christ's church, not ours. And Christ is the true Shepherd of His people. Therefore, any leader of Christ's church is only an under-shepherd (a steward) of that one great “Shepherd and Overseer of our souls” (1 Peter 2:25). May we all follow this example in our homes, on the job, with our friends, family and all those we have influence with. 

The Truth: "Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with every good thing to do His will. And may He accomplish in us what is pleasing in His sight through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.” (Hebrews 13:20-21)

1 Peter 4 "Christian Love"

 “Keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins. Be hospitable to one another without complaint. As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” (vv. 9-10)

What does true Christian love look like? It's a life of service. Scripture calls us to a life of deep love for others. Rather than seeking to expose the faults of others, we should strive to cover those faults with a generous forgiveness and a welcoming hospitality (vv. 8-9). Knowing we are loved and welcomed by God, we should in turn offer love and welcome to others.

Love is more than just feelings and forgiveness; it involves tangible actions as well. Whatever gifts we've been given (and Scripture says that each of us has some gift), we are to use them to serve others. Whether it be comforting words in a time of great need, or a anonymous gift in a time of hardship, our life should be an act of service that operates out of God's gifts to us, and for His glory (vv. 10-11). 

So while our days on this earth grow shorter every day, that knowledge should sharpen our focus on the things that matter most: honoring God by loving and serving one another.

The Truth: "Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. Be kindly affectionate one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another; Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.” (Romans 12:9-13)

1 Peter 3 "God Sees All"

“For the eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous, And His ears attend to their prayer, But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” (v. 12)

In our society today, why does wickedness seem destined to prevail? Does God not see all that rears its head in defiance of Him and those who live unrighteously? Our text says, "the face of the Lord is against them that do evil," implying that in due time their judgment will come. Psalm 103:9 tells us, "He will not always chide; neither will he keep his anger forever." Meaning, while this is still the age of grace, and He is still willing that none should perish, judgment is coming!

The major portion of our scripture reading for today it is a quotation from Psalm 34. In it the Psalmist had observed in his day just what the apostle was now seeing - that man's heart does not change from age to age, and is always trying to implement his own schemes and exclude his Creator. As a result, failure will always be written over the futile efforts of the human race to attain peace and happiness without God. 

Yet, out of the midst of man's flawed reasoning, God is calling people to His name. And for those willing to accept His call, there is the promise, "The eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers.”

Therefore, be encouraged, stay the course, stand against injustice, and pray for those who are blinded by "false leadership." God sees all and He will not hold back His anger forever. 

The Truth: "He will not always accuse, nor will He harbor his anger forever; He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. " (Psalm 103:9-12)

1 Peter 2 "Living Stones"

 “You also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” (v.5)

In Peter’s description of the church, he describes people as “living stones” who are “built up as a spiritual house” with Jesus as the “cornerstone.” From Peter’s perspective, the church is not so much a physical building or even an institution, but people that God is developing and bringing together in Jesus.

It’s important to remember that what makes us as “living stones” fit together in a cohesive unit, is making sure that the cornerstone is in place. In the construction of a building, the cornerstone is set first in the foundation and all the other stones are positioned in reference to it. If the cornerstone is weak or not set in the right place, everything else in the building will be off.

I am so thankful that most churches are focused on, developing people who love and follow Jesus. In such a climate as this, it is vitally important that the church one calls home is built on the only foundation that can stand the test of time, Jesus. Then, we as “living stones” will be built up as a spiritual house, acceptable to God, with Jesus as our chief cornerstone able to support and develop growth. 

The Truth: "Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.” (Ephesians 2:19-22)

1 Peter 1 "The Saving Work of The Trinity"

“Chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood.” (v.2)

In the opening verses of Peter’s first letter, the apostle referred to the role of the Father, the Holy Spirit, and the Son in saving us (v.2). Our salvation began with the Father’s loving plan, made possible by Jesus’ atoning death on the cross (to provide forgiveness and cleansing), and was completed by the Holy Spirit’s transforming work in us. While the trinity may be a confounding concept, it can be clearly seen here at work in the salvation of those mentioned by Peter in verse 1, and our lives today as well. 

The more clearly we see and appreciate the unique role each Person of the Godhead has in our salvation, the more intimate will be our daily walk with Him. Where would we be without God's call on our life? Lost, stumbling around in a dark world. Where would we be without the cleansing blood of Jesus for our sin? Dead in our trespasses with no hope of eternity. Where would we be with His Spirit to guide our steps? Doing what seems right in our own eyes with no light of truth in us. 

Thank you Father in Heaven, for sending Your Son as a sacrificial substitute for our sin, who sits at Your right hand to make intercession for us. And for not leaving us alone without a comforter, but gave us Your Holy Spirit, who guides us into all truth. Amen.   

The Truth: “God, from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and the belief in the truth (His Son).” (2 Thessalonians 2:13)