Exodus 12--The feast of the Passover Lamb is filled with rich elements that point to Jesus. The wrath poured out on the Egyptians was also deserved upon the Hebrews, but the blood was covering them. It is also interesting that this deliverance resulted in the exodus of a "mixed multitude" (38).
Exodus 13--Because God spared the firstborn, the firstborn will be dedicated to Him. This also reminds us of HIs only begotten, who would be sacrificed as our Redemption.
Exodus 14--God displays His glory before Israel and before Egypt. Pharaoh and the Egyptians decide to pursue Israel again. Right away, we see that Israel's safety is not tied to her virtue, for she complains against God and Moses again. However, God delivers them to show His awesome power.
Exodus 15--Displays the true heart of man, the people praise God at one moment and then as trial comes, they begin to grumble against Him. Yet the Lord in His grace continues to provide.
Exodus 16--Shows the Lord's provision and the people's lack of faith. God gives manna and quail and tells them not to collect on the Sabbath and only to collect what they need. Some disobey.
Exodus 17--God provides again with the water from the Rock. God also protects Israel by giving them victory over the Amalekites...a victory that was not won by Joshua's might, but by intercession with the Lord.
Matthew 21--Jesus is received by some (but not the esteemed) while the Pharisees and Sadducees continue to reject Him. Jesus then begins to lay out parables to illustrate their rejection.
Matthew 22--Jesus continues to illustrate the rejection of those who should know better and how the gospel is opened up to others because of their rejection. The last interaction is to show that they do not understand the nature of the Messiah being the Son of David.
Our depravity runs so deeply that no amount of evidence reverses it. The Israelites had evidence after evidence, yet continued to grumble, complain and doubt. They saw God's deliverance, yet they doubted that the Exodus was of the Lord. Likewise, Jesus had given the religious leaders of His day ample evidence, yet they continued to reject Him. Even more than His miracles, His teaching, answers and even questions revealed a greater understanding of Scripture than the leaders, yet this would not turn them.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Exodus 6-11 // Matthew 19-20
God's sovereign reign over hearts flows through all eight chapters!
Exodus 6 reveals that God will use Moses and Aaron to free Israel from Pharaoh's bondage, as He promised to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Interestingly, the fathers of Israel originally reject Moses, and Moses wonders how he will be effective with Pharaoh. However, God tells him that it will be by compulsion (originally resistance until broken.)
Exodus 7 shows Pharaoh's rejection of God even after the staff and the bloody Nile. In fact, his heart is so hardened to God that he would prefer his own magicians offer the same curses simply for the sake of making his point.
Exodus 8 presents the frogs, which his own magicians again duplicate. Next come the gnats, which his magicians could not reproduce and beg Pharaoh to fix through Moses. Next come the insects, which seems to bring a softening from Pharaoh, originally telling Moses to go and worship, but to stay in the land.
Exodus 9 presents the death of the livestock, however we see God making a distinction between the Egyptians and the Israelites. God also brings the boils, but reminds Pharaoh that it is only by His grace that the Egyptians still live. However, this grace does not turn him to repent. Again, we see the hail come, but not to the Israelites. We also see some Egyptians spared from greater instruction if they were willing to heed the word of Moses and Aaron. Moses is able to see that Pharaoh still does not have a broken heart (possibly visible by his constant attempts to bargain with God.)
Exodus 10 brings the locusts and Pharaoh's bargain that only the men can go and worship. The plague of darkness follows except that it does not effect the Hebrews.
Exodus 11 presents the treat of the plague of the first born and the said statement that Pharaoh still will not listen to this threat.
Matthew 19 immediately speaks to the hardness of the men's hearts in wanting divorce. I'm not sure I ever saw the connection of the hardness of Pharaoh's heart and the hardness of the Israelites' hearts before. But is seems pretty clear to be the same thing. The rich young ruler also exhibits such a hardness in his heart, believing himself to be righteous. Jesus reminds the disciples that the turning of the Lord's heart is the Lord's work alone.
Matthew 20 presents hardened hearts of men who receive what the agreed to receiving, yet are embittered because others receive the same. Jesus also knows how He will be received by those in Jerusalem for He gives quite a detailed description of His death to come.
Just like with Pharaoh, God will use the rejection of Jesus in Jerusalem to declare to the nations that the LORD is God. He is consumed with His glory and rejection and repentance will bring about the magnification of His name!
Exodus 6 reveals that God will use Moses and Aaron to free Israel from Pharaoh's bondage, as He promised to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Interestingly, the fathers of Israel originally reject Moses, and Moses wonders how he will be effective with Pharaoh. However, God tells him that it will be by compulsion (originally resistance until broken.)
Exodus 7 shows Pharaoh's rejection of God even after the staff and the bloody Nile. In fact, his heart is so hardened to God that he would prefer his own magicians offer the same curses simply for the sake of making his point.
Exodus 8 presents the frogs, which his own magicians again duplicate. Next come the gnats, which his magicians could not reproduce and beg Pharaoh to fix through Moses. Next come the insects, which seems to bring a softening from Pharaoh, originally telling Moses to go and worship, but to stay in the land.
Exodus 9 presents the death of the livestock, however we see God making a distinction between the Egyptians and the Israelites. God also brings the boils, but reminds Pharaoh that it is only by His grace that the Egyptians still live. However, this grace does not turn him to repent. Again, we see the hail come, but not to the Israelites. We also see some Egyptians spared from greater instruction if they were willing to heed the word of Moses and Aaron. Moses is able to see that Pharaoh still does not have a broken heart (possibly visible by his constant attempts to bargain with God.)
Exodus 10 brings the locusts and Pharaoh's bargain that only the men can go and worship. The plague of darkness follows except that it does not effect the Hebrews.
Exodus 11 presents the treat of the plague of the first born and the said statement that Pharaoh still will not listen to this threat.
Matthew 19 immediately speaks to the hardness of the men's hearts in wanting divorce. I'm not sure I ever saw the connection of the hardness of Pharaoh's heart and the hardness of the Israelites' hearts before. But is seems pretty clear to be the same thing. The rich young ruler also exhibits such a hardness in his heart, believing himself to be righteous. Jesus reminds the disciples that the turning of the Lord's heart is the Lord's work alone.
Matthew 20 presents hardened hearts of men who receive what the agreed to receiving, yet are embittered because others receive the same. Jesus also knows how He will be received by those in Jerusalem for He gives quite a detailed description of His death to come.
Just like with Pharaoh, God will use the rejection of Jesus in Jerusalem to declare to the nations that the LORD is God. He is consumed with His glory and rejection and repentance will bring about the magnification of His name!
Monday, January 11, 2010
Genesis 50-Exodus 5 // Matthew 17-18
Genesis 50 presents the death of Israel and of Joseph. The nation is moving into an era beyond the patriarchs, and just as we see in Joshua/Judges, the next era seems to lack the same passion and leadership as the previous. Yet, at the end of these thing, we see the promise that Egypt is not the Israelites home, for they bury Jacob in Machpelah, and promise to carry Joseph's bones out as well.
Exodus 1 begins to show how the Lord controls the hearts of men. The previous Pharaoh treated Israel with blessing. However, this blessing causes Israel to grow quickly, a threat to the new Pharaoh. Therefore, he looks to enslave them.
Exodus 2 covers about 40 years quite quickly. We see God providing for His children by sparing the life of Moses, but by even allowing him and education of privilege. However, Moses thinks a secret sin will not find him out, but is not even able to hide it for a day. Therefore, he flees. Yet God uses this to bring Moses his wife.
Exodus 3 begins the calling of Moses to return. Moses resists on every front, yet the Lord does not sway. Though He grows angry with Moses, He does not execute judgement upon him.
Exodus 4 continues with more excuses and more resistance. God presents Moses with an answer after answer to his ability to serve. However, He reminds Moses that he is not qualified to go before Pharaoh on account of God without His covenant relationship. Therefore, Moses nearly dies (and his sons) for he has not circumcised them yet. His wife, however, circumcises the boys...as she must have known of God's covenant with Abraham.
Exodus 5 presents the initial resistance to Moses. From the perspective of the Israelites, Moses seems to be only stirring up trouble for them, yet God is setting the table to perform all that He said to Moses that He would give Israel.
Matthew 17 presents Jesus in His glory. However, Peter does not see that a tent for Moses, Elijah and Jesus does not place Jesus in authority as He is due! Therefore, a voice from heaven reminds them that He is the Son of God. He also displays His authority in that He casts out a demon which the disciples could not. Again, drawing them to the issue that faith if critical.
Matthew 18 describes such faith, that it must be a like a child. To truly see Christ in glory means we abandon our attempts to bring glory upon ourself. Jesus then explains to the disciples that such faith must be dependent upon forgiveness and should see fellow men as in need of one another. We will need to hold one another lovingly accountable.
It's amazing to see how God is using the circumstances in Exodus to accomplish His will. He is not just steering the circumstances, but the heart as well. In Matthew 17-18, we see that God is still fulfilling the same function. Bring events to be, but also the response to those events.
Exodus 1 begins to show how the Lord controls the hearts of men. The previous Pharaoh treated Israel with blessing. However, this blessing causes Israel to grow quickly, a threat to the new Pharaoh. Therefore, he looks to enslave them.
Exodus 2 covers about 40 years quite quickly. We see God providing for His children by sparing the life of Moses, but by even allowing him and education of privilege. However, Moses thinks a secret sin will not find him out, but is not even able to hide it for a day. Therefore, he flees. Yet God uses this to bring Moses his wife.
Exodus 3 begins the calling of Moses to return. Moses resists on every front, yet the Lord does not sway. Though He grows angry with Moses, He does not execute judgement upon him.
Exodus 4 continues with more excuses and more resistance. God presents Moses with an answer after answer to his ability to serve. However, He reminds Moses that he is not qualified to go before Pharaoh on account of God without His covenant relationship. Therefore, Moses nearly dies (and his sons) for he has not circumcised them yet. His wife, however, circumcises the boys...as she must have known of God's covenant with Abraham.
Exodus 5 presents the initial resistance to Moses. From the perspective of the Israelites, Moses seems to be only stirring up trouble for them, yet God is setting the table to perform all that He said to Moses that He would give Israel.
Matthew 17 presents Jesus in His glory. However, Peter does not see that a tent for Moses, Elijah and Jesus does not place Jesus in authority as He is due! Therefore, a voice from heaven reminds them that He is the Son of God. He also displays His authority in that He casts out a demon which the disciples could not. Again, drawing them to the issue that faith if critical.
Matthew 18 describes such faith, that it must be a like a child. To truly see Christ in glory means we abandon our attempts to bring glory upon ourself. Jesus then explains to the disciples that such faith must be dependent upon forgiveness and should see fellow men as in need of one another. We will need to hold one another lovingly accountable.
It's amazing to see how God is using the circumstances in Exodus to accomplish His will. He is not just steering the circumstances, but the heart as well. In Matthew 17-18, we see that God is still fulfilling the same function. Bring events to be, but also the response to those events.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Genesis 43-49 // Matthew 15-16
Genesis 43 shows that Israel could not remain removed from Egypt. Though he would have been content to leave Simeon there, to keep from losing Benjamin, the famine, and his needs required otherwise. When Joseph sees his brother Benjamin, he knows that he is still living and his brothers have not treated Benjamin the same way they treated him.
Genesis 44 presents Judah as a substitute. Joseph has already treated Benjamin with privilege, giving him a great portion of blessing and then arranges an opportunity for his brothers to neglect him. However, in stead of responding with jealousy, Judah steps forward and offers his own life instead. For concern for his father, he is willing to take the place for Benjamin.
Genesis 45 shows how Israel will come to be in Egypt. Joseph reveals his identity and then implores his brothers to go get their father and bring him back. As Joseph sends his brothers, he has to instruct them to not quarrel. We see how God is providing for His Children, even through the hands of pagan men, as Pharaoh sends provisions to make the journey easier.
Genesis 46 shows the entire nation coming down to Egypt, with Judah leading the way. Pharaoh has placed them in Goshen, a land which will provide for their needs.
Genesis 47, the brothers answer that they are shepherds, instead of "keepers of livestock" as Joseph encouraged them. However, this answer does not offend or bother Pharaoh, but instead he gives the privilege. God also rewards Pharaoh, for he gains money, and the land of his fellow Egyptians.
Genesis 48 shows the blessing to Joseph is extended to his sons. In fact, by treating Ephraim and Manasseh as his own children, Jacob is giving a double blessing to Joseph.
Genesis 49 shows the blessings to all brothers, with the obviously greatest blessing going to Judah, who will be a lion and who's rule will be eternal!
Matthew 15 presents more of the Pharisees rejection, and presents a bit of the reason for it. Jesus exposes that the Pharisees love their own traditions more than the commandments of God and will preserve their customs at the risk of God's Word. Yet, we see a woman who is not a child of Israel who has faith, and she is blessed. Jesus also cares for the peoples needs by feeding them.
Matthew 16 presents the Pharisees demanding yet another sign. However, Jesus knows this is not an issue of information, but an issue of hardened hearts. Therefore, Jesus warns the disciples to fear the "leaven" of the Pharisees. Though they cannot understand this, God does open Peter's eyes to be able to see Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the Living God. However, the disciples do not appear prepared to understand that the cross must come first.
It seems that Israel's children do not understand the suffering to come in Egypt. In fact, Egypt seems to be a place of relief from the trials of famine. However, in just a few generations, this land will enslave them and make life very difficult for them. In the same way, the disciples may have seen Jesus as freedom from their current circumstances, but did not understand the suffering that would come before the glory they would enjoy.
Genesis 44 presents Judah as a substitute. Joseph has already treated Benjamin with privilege, giving him a great portion of blessing and then arranges an opportunity for his brothers to neglect him. However, in stead of responding with jealousy, Judah steps forward and offers his own life instead. For concern for his father, he is willing to take the place for Benjamin.
Genesis 45 shows how Israel will come to be in Egypt. Joseph reveals his identity and then implores his brothers to go get their father and bring him back. As Joseph sends his brothers, he has to instruct them to not quarrel. We see how God is providing for His Children, even through the hands of pagan men, as Pharaoh sends provisions to make the journey easier.
Genesis 46 shows the entire nation coming down to Egypt, with Judah leading the way. Pharaoh has placed them in Goshen, a land which will provide for their needs.
Genesis 47, the brothers answer that they are shepherds, instead of "keepers of livestock" as Joseph encouraged them. However, this answer does not offend or bother Pharaoh, but instead he gives the privilege. God also rewards Pharaoh, for he gains money, and the land of his fellow Egyptians.
Genesis 48 shows the blessing to Joseph is extended to his sons. In fact, by treating Ephraim and Manasseh as his own children, Jacob is giving a double blessing to Joseph.
Genesis 49 shows the blessings to all brothers, with the obviously greatest blessing going to Judah, who will be a lion and who's rule will be eternal!
Matthew 15 presents more of the Pharisees rejection, and presents a bit of the reason for it. Jesus exposes that the Pharisees love their own traditions more than the commandments of God and will preserve their customs at the risk of God's Word. Yet, we see a woman who is not a child of Israel who has faith, and she is blessed. Jesus also cares for the peoples needs by feeding them.
Matthew 16 presents the Pharisees demanding yet another sign. However, Jesus knows this is not an issue of information, but an issue of hardened hearts. Therefore, Jesus warns the disciples to fear the "leaven" of the Pharisees. Though they cannot understand this, God does open Peter's eyes to be able to see Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the Living God. However, the disciples do not appear prepared to understand that the cross must come first.
It seems that Israel's children do not understand the suffering to come in Egypt. In fact, Egypt seems to be a place of relief from the trials of famine. However, in just a few generations, this land will enslave them and make life very difficult for them. In the same way, the disciples may have seen Jesus as freedom from their current circumstances, but did not understand the suffering that would come before the glory they would enjoy.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Genesis 37-42 // Matthew 13-14
While Genesis reminds us how God sovereignly works all situations to His glory and our good, Jesus takes His preaching and extends that to show it is not just for our material needs, but that He sovereignly works over the condition of our soul as well.
Genesis 37 reveals how God works sovereignly over sin. Perhaps Joseph is overly arrogant, though the text does not make this accusation. Certainly, He does not show a wisdom in the way he presents the dreams. Jacob shows an unhealthy favoritism and the brothers certainly show jealousy, rage and murder. We also see that Reuben cannot control the outcome, for his plan is foiled.
Genesis 38 is often considered one of the darker chapters, for two men die because they are evil. A patriarch sleeps with his daughter-in-law because he thought she was a prostitute, not to mention the daughter-in-law going along with it. However, it is tempting for us to get caught up in the gory details and miss the beautiful display of repentance. When confronted with his sin (which he had been ignoring), Judah goes from self-righteously calling for the death of Tamar, to confessing that she is more righteous than he. He sees his sin and repents.
Genesis 39 shows how Joseph prospers in the land of Egypt. He is purchased by Pharaoh's bodyguard, a sovereign act by God that will place him in the Pharaoh's prison, undoubtedly would not have happened without Potipher's connections. Yet, because of his integrity and purity, he is cast into prison. But God's hand of blessing is visible even behind bars and Joseph prospers and it is recognized by the jailor.
Genesis 40 reveals Pharaoh's power. In a display of his "sovereignty," Pharaoh releases the butler but takes the life of the baker. However, working above his actions is God's sovereignty, as God moves a man into Pharaoh's service who will be aware of Joseph at a time of need. However, by forgetting about Joseph for two years, Joseph remains in a place where he can be found when needed.
Genesis 41 reveals God working sovereignly over Pharaoh as He gives him dreams for the future. This presents the need for Joseph, and the butler remembers. Then, as Joseph has stated before, the interpretation of dreams belongs to God and He provides for Joseph in such a way that God exults Joseph to a position where his brothers will bow down to him.
Genesis 42 shows the immediate result of this. Joseph's brothers approach him and immediately bow down to him. Then Joseph watches and discerns how his brothers have dealt with their sin. Chapter 42 ends with Jacob saying he will not allow his sons to return to Egypt, and seems to accept the loss of Simeon as well.
Matthew 13 presents man's response to the gospel in the hands of God. He presents parables for the purpose of veiling His message to some. WHile those whom the Father has chosen gain understanding from them.
Matthew 14 shows the bitter end of rejecting the message from God; the murder of John the Baptist, a taste of the rejection of Christ to come. Yet, by grace some receive the work of Jesus with joy, however we do not see whether they receive His message as well. (John 6 would remind us they do not).
Genesis 37 reveals how God works sovereignly over sin. Perhaps Joseph is overly arrogant, though the text does not make this accusation. Certainly, He does not show a wisdom in the way he presents the dreams. Jacob shows an unhealthy favoritism and the brothers certainly show jealousy, rage and murder. We also see that Reuben cannot control the outcome, for his plan is foiled.
Genesis 38 is often considered one of the darker chapters, for two men die because they are evil. A patriarch sleeps with his daughter-in-law because he thought she was a prostitute, not to mention the daughter-in-law going along with it. However, it is tempting for us to get caught up in the gory details and miss the beautiful display of repentance. When confronted with his sin (which he had been ignoring), Judah goes from self-righteously calling for the death of Tamar, to confessing that she is more righteous than he. He sees his sin and repents.
Genesis 39 shows how Joseph prospers in the land of Egypt. He is purchased by Pharaoh's bodyguard, a sovereign act by God that will place him in the Pharaoh's prison, undoubtedly would not have happened without Potipher's connections. Yet, because of his integrity and purity, he is cast into prison. But God's hand of blessing is visible even behind bars and Joseph prospers and it is recognized by the jailor.
Genesis 40 reveals Pharaoh's power. In a display of his "sovereignty," Pharaoh releases the butler but takes the life of the baker. However, working above his actions is God's sovereignty, as God moves a man into Pharaoh's service who will be aware of Joseph at a time of need. However, by forgetting about Joseph for two years, Joseph remains in a place where he can be found when needed.
Genesis 41 reveals God working sovereignly over Pharaoh as He gives him dreams for the future. This presents the need for Joseph, and the butler remembers. Then, as Joseph has stated before, the interpretation of dreams belongs to God and He provides for Joseph in such a way that God exults Joseph to a position where his brothers will bow down to him.
Genesis 42 shows the immediate result of this. Joseph's brothers approach him and immediately bow down to him. Then Joseph watches and discerns how his brothers have dealt with their sin. Chapter 42 ends with Jacob saying he will not allow his sons to return to Egypt, and seems to accept the loss of Simeon as well.
Matthew 13 presents man's response to the gospel in the hands of God. He presents parables for the purpose of veiling His message to some. WHile those whom the Father has chosen gain understanding from them.
Matthew 14 shows the bitter end of rejecting the message from God; the murder of John the Baptist, a taste of the rejection of Christ to come. Yet, by grace some receive the work of Jesus with joy, however we do not see whether they receive His message as well. (John 6 would remind us they do not).
Genesis 31-36 // Matthew 11-12
These chapters of Genesis and Matthew are full of conflict. However, Genesis presents conflict over selfish desires and depravity, while Matthew reveals the conflict that comes when Light penetrates such darkness. John the Baptist and Jesus are met with resistance when they war against these selfish desires that cause quarrels and fighting.
Genesis 31 reveals the feud between Jacob and Laban. Jacob has been treated deceitfully by his father in law for 20 years, yet he does not handle the situation perfectly either. And though he is tempted to think his house is without sin, Rachel has actually taken the idols of her father's home. Jacob, like others in the Old Testament, speaks presumptuously about the situation and is preserved from having to execute Rachel only because she is willing to lie and deceive. (No clue if Jacob ever found out.)
Genesis 32 shows that Jacob is still concerned with how he will be received by his brother. Until now, the interaction between the brothers has been filled with selfishness and power plays. Jacob shows an incredible amount of humility compared to earlier in his life. Of course, most significant of all is that though Jacob wrestled against God, he did not win, and God permanently marked him. He takes on the name Israel, for he strives with God yet God does not remove His love or covenant from him.
Genesis 33 shows that Jacob still resorts to deceit, but with different motive. In effort to protect his family, he makes it appear like he has two households, one which should survive provided Esau attacked. We do see that Jacob is grateful, for he understands the extreme blessing that he has two households. However, by God's grace, Esau receives him well and the brothers appear to be restored.
Genesis 34 shows how the brothers have learned sin from their father. Certainly Jacob (and Laban's) deceit has been passed to the sons. Simeon and Levi manipulate the covenant God has made with Abraham by using it as a means to gain an advantage over the men of Shechem. Interestinly, Jacob also reveals himself to be a man who does not take action and appears to fear the response of surrounding nations. Verse 30 seems to reveal a fragile faith, as he does not seem to regard the promises of God to hold true in all situations.
Genesis 35, yet in the midst of all this, we see God blessing and naming Jacob. He reveals to Jacob that Israel will be a mighty nation, and that kings will come from Jacob's line. Of course, greatest of all is the King of Kings who will rule over all nations! Though we are not informed of the consequences yet, we are told that Reuben, Simeon and Levi have sinned in severe ways.
Genesis 36 shows how God has made mighty men and rulers from the seed of Esau. However, this text reminds us that God's ultimate blessing does not just come through multiple descendants, or the formation of nations, or the power to exercise over those nations, for Esau's descendants have all of these. The ultimate blessing will come in Jesus, through the line of Jacob.
Matthew 11 shows that the blessing is not even being a descendant of Jacob, for many who are in Israel do not receive the words of Jesus or of John the Baptist. They reject both of their messages and yet the real blessing (and true children of Israel) receive Christ by faith and come take His yoke upon them. In verse 27, Jesus reminds us who really determines our response.
Matthew 12 shows that even the Law is a stumbling block to those who reject Christ. Even a gift like the Law, which is unique to the children of Jacob, becomes a curse to those who reject Christ. Ultimately, this issue, not your origin or descent, will be the issue that divides homes and causes unrest.
We live in a time where peace is hard to come by. At times, we see relative peace, as between Jacob and Esau. However, even as we read of the descendants of Esau, we know that peace is not lasting. Minor issues like land and human relations play into the unrest, but nothing fractures tranquility like the gospel. It divides homes and eternally changes relationships.
Genesis 31 reveals the feud between Jacob and Laban. Jacob has been treated deceitfully by his father in law for 20 years, yet he does not handle the situation perfectly either. And though he is tempted to think his house is without sin, Rachel has actually taken the idols of her father's home. Jacob, like others in the Old Testament, speaks presumptuously about the situation and is preserved from having to execute Rachel only because she is willing to lie and deceive. (No clue if Jacob ever found out.)
Genesis 32 shows that Jacob is still concerned with how he will be received by his brother. Until now, the interaction between the brothers has been filled with selfishness and power plays. Jacob shows an incredible amount of humility compared to earlier in his life. Of course, most significant of all is that though Jacob wrestled against God, he did not win, and God permanently marked him. He takes on the name Israel, for he strives with God yet God does not remove His love or covenant from him.
Genesis 33 shows that Jacob still resorts to deceit, but with different motive. In effort to protect his family, he makes it appear like he has two households, one which should survive provided Esau attacked. We do see that Jacob is grateful, for he understands the extreme blessing that he has two households. However, by God's grace, Esau receives him well and the brothers appear to be restored.
Genesis 34 shows how the brothers have learned sin from their father. Certainly Jacob (and Laban's) deceit has been passed to the sons. Simeon and Levi manipulate the covenant God has made with Abraham by using it as a means to gain an advantage over the men of Shechem. Interestinly, Jacob also reveals himself to be a man who does not take action and appears to fear the response of surrounding nations. Verse 30 seems to reveal a fragile faith, as he does not seem to regard the promises of God to hold true in all situations.
Genesis 35, yet in the midst of all this, we see God blessing and naming Jacob. He reveals to Jacob that Israel will be a mighty nation, and that kings will come from Jacob's line. Of course, greatest of all is the King of Kings who will rule over all nations! Though we are not informed of the consequences yet, we are told that Reuben, Simeon and Levi have sinned in severe ways.
Genesis 36 shows how God has made mighty men and rulers from the seed of Esau. However, this text reminds us that God's ultimate blessing does not just come through multiple descendants, or the formation of nations, or the power to exercise over those nations, for Esau's descendants have all of these. The ultimate blessing will come in Jesus, through the line of Jacob.
Matthew 11 shows that the blessing is not even being a descendant of Jacob, for many who are in Israel do not receive the words of Jesus or of John the Baptist. They reject both of their messages and yet the real blessing (and true children of Israel) receive Christ by faith and come take His yoke upon them. In verse 27, Jesus reminds us who really determines our response.
Matthew 12 shows that even the Law is a stumbling block to those who reject Christ. Even a gift like the Law, which is unique to the children of Jacob, becomes a curse to those who reject Christ. Ultimately, this issue, not your origin or descent, will be the issue that divides homes and causes unrest.
We live in a time where peace is hard to come by. At times, we see relative peace, as between Jacob and Esau. However, even as we read of the descendants of Esau, we know that peace is not lasting. Minor issues like land and human relations play into the unrest, but nothing fractures tranquility like the gospel. It divides homes and eternally changes relationships.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Genesis 25-30 // Matthew 9-10
God's hand of blessing continues on His children, but that blessing does not always end in ease or comfort.
Genesis 25 presents the death of Abraham and the children of Ishmael and Isaac. Even in the account, it is clear that the blessing and greater purposes will flow through Isaac, not Ishmael. Ishmael's children are simply named, whereas Isaac's are named with details, and those details being how one will strive and rule over the other.
Genesis 26 shows God's provision for Isaac though he sins in the same was as his father. Again, a man decides it better to present his wife as his sister. However, God preserves Isaac in that no man did take Rebekah as his wife, and that Abimelech does not execute Isaac for his lie. Instead, he sends him away, where Isaac continues to prosper, to the point that Abilmelech then pursues peace with Isaac through it.
Genesis 27 begins to give the details of the fulfilled prophecy of chapter 25. Jacob, through his mother's influence, presents himself as Esau to receive the blessing. One has to wonder why Isaac would seek to give Esau the blessing when he certainly heard the prophecy that he would serve Jacob. It seems his appetite sways his judgment as he loved game, and Esau was the hunter. We see the blessing come to Jacob.
Genesis 28, Jacob is not simply blessed by Isaac, but now becomes blessed by God. As he heads to relatives to find a wife, it seems Esau continues to strive by works. Seeing his parents displeasure in Canaanite women, he marries a daughter from Ishmael's line...attempting to win his parents' approval. This is a pivitol encounter for Jacob.
Genesis 29 we see such similar provision as that for Isaac. Jacob finds his wife at the well also. She is a daughter of Laban and he goes and spends a month with them before he really makes his intention known. However, we do not see him with the caravan and treasures that Abraham's servant brought with him. He works 7 years for Rachel only to be deceived and receive Leah. The deceiver has been deceived. However, after another week, he receives Rachel and then must work another 7 years. Rachel becomes the third generation of the women of promise who experience being barren. Leah bears 4 children to Jacob, the first three with a bitter heart that always wonders what more may be gained. Finally, with Judah, she simply praises the Lord.
Genesis 30 presents and unorthodox way for the nation to grow. While Leah ends up bearing 6 sons to Jacob, four more come through his wives' slaves. Rachel has one child, whom she names with the attitude of wanting more. That wish will be fulfilled, but we do not see that in this passage. Jacob also experiences prosperity in his flocks. I have no idea what the rods and spots mean, perhaps nothing but superstition, just to reveal God was the one who was orchestrating the blessing?
Matthew 9 reminds us that Jesus was performing all sorts of healings and miraculous works. These events get recorded yet we should not miss that He was traveling and preaching the good news of the kingdom. The miracles never took more worth than the spoken word from Jesus. It served His preaching ministry. We're reminded that His healing ministry mirrors his preaching in that you do not heal the well, but the sick. His words do not raise those who are living, but the dead.
Matthew 10 reveals the personal results for the disciples who fulfill the great commission. Since Jesus was being reviled as a son of Beelzebub, how much more would His disciples hear! Tensions and violence would mark the results of the preaching. They are not to come in violence but their message is peace. However, the result of such a radical message will be violence when simply in the hands of the unrepentant.
Certainly God blesses, provides and watches over His children. However, that blessing will not always result in material blessing or being liked by others. For Isaac and Jacob, these blessings were material and peace with surrounding leaders. However, the same promise (in fact the opposite) it promised to the disciples.
Genesis 25 presents the death of Abraham and the children of Ishmael and Isaac. Even in the account, it is clear that the blessing and greater purposes will flow through Isaac, not Ishmael. Ishmael's children are simply named, whereas Isaac's are named with details, and those details being how one will strive and rule over the other.
Genesis 26 shows God's provision for Isaac though he sins in the same was as his father. Again, a man decides it better to present his wife as his sister. However, God preserves Isaac in that no man did take Rebekah as his wife, and that Abimelech does not execute Isaac for his lie. Instead, he sends him away, where Isaac continues to prosper, to the point that Abilmelech then pursues peace with Isaac through it.
Genesis 27 begins to give the details of the fulfilled prophecy of chapter 25. Jacob, through his mother's influence, presents himself as Esau to receive the blessing. One has to wonder why Isaac would seek to give Esau the blessing when he certainly heard the prophecy that he would serve Jacob. It seems his appetite sways his judgment as he loved game, and Esau was the hunter. We see the blessing come to Jacob.
Genesis 28, Jacob is not simply blessed by Isaac, but now becomes blessed by God. As he heads to relatives to find a wife, it seems Esau continues to strive by works. Seeing his parents displeasure in Canaanite women, he marries a daughter from Ishmael's line...attempting to win his parents' approval. This is a pivitol encounter for Jacob.
Genesis 29 we see such similar provision as that for Isaac. Jacob finds his wife at the well also. She is a daughter of Laban and he goes and spends a month with them before he really makes his intention known. However, we do not see him with the caravan and treasures that Abraham's servant brought with him. He works 7 years for Rachel only to be deceived and receive Leah. The deceiver has been deceived. However, after another week, he receives Rachel and then must work another 7 years. Rachel becomes the third generation of the women of promise who experience being barren. Leah bears 4 children to Jacob, the first three with a bitter heart that always wonders what more may be gained. Finally, with Judah, she simply praises the Lord.
Genesis 30 presents and unorthodox way for the nation to grow. While Leah ends up bearing 6 sons to Jacob, four more come through his wives' slaves. Rachel has one child, whom she names with the attitude of wanting more. That wish will be fulfilled, but we do not see that in this passage. Jacob also experiences prosperity in his flocks. I have no idea what the rods and spots mean, perhaps nothing but superstition, just to reveal God was the one who was orchestrating the blessing?
Matthew 9 reminds us that Jesus was performing all sorts of healings and miraculous works. These events get recorded yet we should not miss that He was traveling and preaching the good news of the kingdom. The miracles never took more worth than the spoken word from Jesus. It served His preaching ministry. We're reminded that His healing ministry mirrors his preaching in that you do not heal the well, but the sick. His words do not raise those who are living, but the dead.
Matthew 10 reveals the personal results for the disciples who fulfill the great commission. Since Jesus was being reviled as a son of Beelzebub, how much more would His disciples hear! Tensions and violence would mark the results of the preaching. They are not to come in violence but their message is peace. However, the result of such a radical message will be violence when simply in the hands of the unrepentant.
Certainly God blesses, provides and watches over His children. However, that blessing will not always result in material blessing or being liked by others. For Isaac and Jacob, these blessings were material and peace with surrounding leaders. However, the same promise (in fact the opposite) it promised to the disciples.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Genesis 19-24 // Matthew 7-8
Ultimately, we see different responses to the judgment of God. Some shy away from Him while others embrace Him. Tho those who are His children, He not only causes them to embrace Him but abundantly blesses as well.
Genesis 19 presents the narrative of how Lot was spared from the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. Lot hesitates, his wife turns back, his daughters choose to sinfully keep their line together and his sons-in-law think he is only jesting. Not only that, but Lot tells the angels he cannot go into the mountains, yet that is exactly where he ends up. Yet verse 29 tells us that Lot was preserved because God remembered Abraham. Peter will later refer to Lot as righteous, therefore, it seems that God does not spare the cities because there were not 10 righteous people there, yet because of His conversation with Abraham, he does spare those He deems righteous.
Genesis 20 reminds us that Abraham is far from righteous in and of himself. It could be tempting to view Abraham as near perfect after viewing the mess that is Lot and his family. However, for a second time, Abraham is willing to lie about his wife, forfeit her to another man, simply because he wants to spare his life. He does this, both times, without actually knowing if his life would be risked. However, God protects that the line is to come from Abraham by keeping Abimelech from having relations with Sarah. Once God reveals Himself to Abimelech, he responds and God blesses both Abraham and Abilmelech in the situation.
Genesis 21 shows us how God was working in the nations to provide the right conditions for His Son. Hagar and Ishamael's heritage is sent away, yet the Lord cares for and preserves them on account of Abraham. Abimelech forms a treaty with Abraham for he can see that Abraham is blessed.
Genesis 22 presents the works that display Abraham's faith. Now that Ishmael is gone, God speaks of Isaac as Abraham's only son. Yet, Abraham, trusting in the resurrection, is willing to offer his only son to the Lord. The Lord spares Isaac and provides a ram as a substitute. Abraham provides a picture of our Heavenly Father (though a flawed picture), as he offers his one and only son. The ram presents a picture of Christ, the substitute on our behalf so our life can be spared!
Genesis 23 shows us how God has been blessing Abraham. Not only is he blessed with material wealth, but God has caused neighboring peoples to respect Abraham for it and not be displeased or threatened by him. We also see that God has caused Abraham to be quite astute, knowing the culture well and handling himself with grace and dignity. In such ways, he is able to bury his wife properly.
Genesis 24 shows how God will be faithful to Abraham and his generations. It is commendable to see how often Abraham's servant responds to the circumstances with worship to the Lord. Nahor's family also seems to respect the Lord (though may not know Him) in the way they speak to the servant. The line leading to Jesus is preserved in that Isaac stays in the land promised, while his bride is brought to him from his own people.
Matthew 7 reminds us that fruit will make the heart visible. This cannot be actions alone, however, but we need to listen for motives as well. In fact, the motives--usually stemming from words spoken--are really what sets apart the false teachers from the true ones.
Matthew 8 provides a few cultures for healing and their different responses. Jesus is willing to touch the unclean (rather than just speak healing to him) and He is not defiled but the man is clean. He also calls that man to obey the Law and report to a priest. He also heals a gentile man on account of the faith of the centurion. We're reminded that He healed Peter's mother-in-law, though this probably happened earlier. Yet, the sadly, the people of Gadarenes reject Him when He offers healing. After casting demons into the swine (who recognize Him as the Son of God), the people ask Him to leave. Perhaps this is because He will cost them profit, perhaps they simply fear His power, perhaps they liked the effects of being submitted to demons? Either way, they reject Him.
God's grace is seen in that we are reminded that the flesh will not respond properly to God without His gracious work on our behalf. Abimelech, left to himself, could have chosen to kill Abraham for his lie. Lot could have continued on like others in Sodom and could have been destroyed. Laban and his family could have resisted what Abraham's servant was asking. But God was lovingly working through people to provide them true joy and to accomplish His divine purposes! He controls not only the events in life, but lovingly grants the grace to control how we respond to them!
Genesis 19 presents the narrative of how Lot was spared from the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. Lot hesitates, his wife turns back, his daughters choose to sinfully keep their line together and his sons-in-law think he is only jesting. Not only that, but Lot tells the angels he cannot go into the mountains, yet that is exactly where he ends up. Yet verse 29 tells us that Lot was preserved because God remembered Abraham. Peter will later refer to Lot as righteous, therefore, it seems that God does not spare the cities because there were not 10 righteous people there, yet because of His conversation with Abraham, he does spare those He deems righteous.
Genesis 20 reminds us that Abraham is far from righteous in and of himself. It could be tempting to view Abraham as near perfect after viewing the mess that is Lot and his family. However, for a second time, Abraham is willing to lie about his wife, forfeit her to another man, simply because he wants to spare his life. He does this, both times, without actually knowing if his life would be risked. However, God protects that the line is to come from Abraham by keeping Abimelech from having relations with Sarah. Once God reveals Himself to Abimelech, he responds and God blesses both Abraham and Abilmelech in the situation.
Genesis 21 shows us how God was working in the nations to provide the right conditions for His Son. Hagar and Ishamael's heritage is sent away, yet the Lord cares for and preserves them on account of Abraham. Abimelech forms a treaty with Abraham for he can see that Abraham is blessed.
Genesis 22 presents the works that display Abraham's faith. Now that Ishmael is gone, God speaks of Isaac as Abraham's only son. Yet, Abraham, trusting in the resurrection, is willing to offer his only son to the Lord. The Lord spares Isaac and provides a ram as a substitute. Abraham provides a picture of our Heavenly Father (though a flawed picture), as he offers his one and only son. The ram presents a picture of Christ, the substitute on our behalf so our life can be spared!
Genesis 23 shows us how God has been blessing Abraham. Not only is he blessed with material wealth, but God has caused neighboring peoples to respect Abraham for it and not be displeased or threatened by him. We also see that God has caused Abraham to be quite astute, knowing the culture well and handling himself with grace and dignity. In such ways, he is able to bury his wife properly.
Genesis 24 shows how God will be faithful to Abraham and his generations. It is commendable to see how often Abraham's servant responds to the circumstances with worship to the Lord. Nahor's family also seems to respect the Lord (though may not know Him) in the way they speak to the servant. The line leading to Jesus is preserved in that Isaac stays in the land promised, while his bride is brought to him from his own people.
Matthew 7 reminds us that fruit will make the heart visible. This cannot be actions alone, however, but we need to listen for motives as well. In fact, the motives--usually stemming from words spoken--are really what sets apart the false teachers from the true ones.
Matthew 8 provides a few cultures for healing and their different responses. Jesus is willing to touch the unclean (rather than just speak healing to him) and He is not defiled but the man is clean. He also calls that man to obey the Law and report to a priest. He also heals a gentile man on account of the faith of the centurion. We're reminded that He healed Peter's mother-in-law, though this probably happened earlier. Yet, the sadly, the people of Gadarenes reject Him when He offers healing. After casting demons into the swine (who recognize Him as the Son of God), the people ask Him to leave. Perhaps this is because He will cost them profit, perhaps they simply fear His power, perhaps they liked the effects of being submitted to demons? Either way, they reject Him.
God's grace is seen in that we are reminded that the flesh will not respond properly to God without His gracious work on our behalf. Abimelech, left to himself, could have chosen to kill Abraham for his lie. Lot could have continued on like others in Sodom and could have been destroyed. Laban and his family could have resisted what Abraham's servant was asking. But God was lovingly working through people to provide them true joy and to accomplish His divine purposes! He controls not only the events in life, but lovingly grants the grace to control how we respond to them!
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Genesis 13-18 // Matthew 5-6
We can look at Sodom in the days of Abraham and believe that 10 righteous people could not be found. It was exceedingly wicked. However, when Jesus preaches the Sermon on the Mount, He lets the people know that their righteousness must exceed that of the Pharisees' if the people wished to see salvation. To the average listener, this would have been more shocking than Sodom being void of 10 righteous people.
Genesis 13 reminds us that Abram's descendants will be like the dust of the earth. Such numbers are understood not in biological Jews, but in the children of Abraham by faith. The children of God in Christ!
Genesis 14 contains the great story of Melchizedek. I never noticed before that he offers Abram "bread and wine," the very elements presented by Christ at the last supper, and reproduced in our communion services. The author of Hebrews reminds us that Abram offered Melchizedek a tithe, thus Abram acknowledges the Priesthood outside of Levi.
Genesis 15 points to Christ as we see the promised child for Abraham. Righteousness is imputed to Abraham by faith--He believes God and it is credited to him.
Genesis 16 exposes to us that Abraham's faith was not sinless, for he commits adultery in his effort to fulfill God's promises. Yet we also see God's general grace to all that Hagar receives care from the Lord as well.
In Genesis 17 Abram receives his name Abraham as well as the sign of the covenant, circumcision. Abraham's heart is still with Ishmael, yet God corrects him that He has a better way!
Genesis 18 must be about the same time as Genesis 17. In 17:21 and 18:10 we see the timeframe had to be close. Yet here, Sarah also hears the promise. God's close relationship with Abraham is revealed when He is not willing to hide His intentions from Abraham. We also see that Abraham understood the city of Sodom, for he was compelled to lower the number to 10 righteous men.
Matthew 5 lays out that the Sermon on the Mount is about confronting the "righteousness" of the Pharisees. Instead, a life must be marked by the effects of repentance. And if any man thinks He is righteous, Christ reveals that He is not adjusting or changing the Law to make righteousness more attainable. Instead, Jesus reveals the intent behind the Laws, not a high standard of behavior, but a genuine heart change.
In Matthew 6, Jesus reveals why the Pharisees would love their own system for righteousness--it brings them personal accolades. People respect them and think much of them. Yet, Jesus exhorts the people not to be hung up with the perspective of others. He also calls them to see the real value of salvation, that our anxieties for clothing and shelter are foolish when we consider the lengths God is willing to go to in providing for our souls.
Abraham's actions would not appear any better than the Pharisees. Yet, because of his dependance upon God for his righteousness, his righteousness did exceed that of the Pharisees, for Abraham's righteousness was Christ's!
Genesis 13 reminds us that Abram's descendants will be like the dust of the earth. Such numbers are understood not in biological Jews, but in the children of Abraham by faith. The children of God in Christ!
Genesis 14 contains the great story of Melchizedek. I never noticed before that he offers Abram "bread and wine," the very elements presented by Christ at the last supper, and reproduced in our communion services. The author of Hebrews reminds us that Abram offered Melchizedek a tithe, thus Abram acknowledges the Priesthood outside of Levi.
Genesis 15 points to Christ as we see the promised child for Abraham. Righteousness is imputed to Abraham by faith--He believes God and it is credited to him.
Genesis 16 exposes to us that Abraham's faith was not sinless, for he commits adultery in his effort to fulfill God's promises. Yet we also see God's general grace to all that Hagar receives care from the Lord as well.
In Genesis 17 Abram receives his name Abraham as well as the sign of the covenant, circumcision. Abraham's heart is still with Ishmael, yet God corrects him that He has a better way!
Genesis 18 must be about the same time as Genesis 17. In 17:21 and 18:10 we see the timeframe had to be close. Yet here, Sarah also hears the promise. God's close relationship with Abraham is revealed when He is not willing to hide His intentions from Abraham. We also see that Abraham understood the city of Sodom, for he was compelled to lower the number to 10 righteous men.
Matthew 5 lays out that the Sermon on the Mount is about confronting the "righteousness" of the Pharisees. Instead, a life must be marked by the effects of repentance. And if any man thinks He is righteous, Christ reveals that He is not adjusting or changing the Law to make righteousness more attainable. Instead, Jesus reveals the intent behind the Laws, not a high standard of behavior, but a genuine heart change.
In Matthew 6, Jesus reveals why the Pharisees would love their own system for righteousness--it brings them personal accolades. People respect them and think much of them. Yet, Jesus exhorts the people not to be hung up with the perspective of others. He also calls them to see the real value of salvation, that our anxieties for clothing and shelter are foolish when we consider the lengths God is willing to go to in providing for our souls.
Abraham's actions would not appear any better than the Pharisees. Yet, because of his dependance upon God for his righteousness, his righteousness did exceed that of the Pharisees, for Abraham's righteousness was Christ's!
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Genesis 7-12 // Matthew 3-4
The beginning of Genesis and beginning of Matthew have more in common than I've realized before. Obviously, if the theme of the Word of God is the redemption of sinners in His Son, then Genesis and Matthew both have the same purpose, simply from different perspectives.
In Genesis 7 we are reminded that the Fall effected all of creation. Plants, animals and mankind are destroyed due to the judgment of sin. We see Christ in knowing that the only way to escape such judgment was to be found in the Ark, just as one must be found in Christ.
Genesis 8 reminds us that though the Law had not been spelled out on Mount Sinai yet, Noah understood that the sacrifices on the altar were to be clean animals. Even if the designation did not come until later (and Moses was using the term to describe the sacrifices), it cannot be escaped that Noah knew these were the type of animals to offer. This once again reminds us that the Old Testament saints knew more about the atonement than we sometime credit them.
Genesis 9 shows inheritance/imputation. The covenant with Noah extends to all successive generations (12), a blessing we do not deserve but inherit. Near the end of the chapter, the curse for Ham's sin is inherited by Canaan.
Genesis 10 & 11 begin to introduce how the gospel applies to all nations. It allows us to see that all nations have extended from Noah. It also reminds us how the nations came to be. Of course, the chapter on nations does not end without bringing a glimpse of the hope of all nations. God is going to call Abram from among his nation to become a nation of His own.
Genesis 12 find the call of Abram and the great statement, "And in you all the families of the earth will be blessed!" We also see that Abram also flees to Egypt, but does not come out perfect like Christ. He sins and pretends Sarai is his sister. Yet, God preserves His own and will not allow the lineage of Abram to be broken by the Pharaoh.
Matthew 3 introduces us to John the Baptist. His ministry is a ministry of repentance. The Kingdom of God is at hand, and our proper response is to repent. Though Jesus has no need to be baptized, He does it as an active form of righteousness. This reminds us that it would not put us in good standing with God if we simply had our sin removed, we must also be righteous. And we are dependent upon God's grace for His righteousness to be imputed.
In Matthew 4, Jesus fares better in the wilderness than the Israelites. Though Satan's activity is always the same, distorting the Word, Jesus responds with a proper understanding of the Word of God. Once John has been captured, Jesus begins to preach the same message, "Repent, for the kingdom of God is at hand." This ministry extends throughout Israel and even to regions like Decapolis...an area with large Gentile population.
Some threads that are clearly seen as shared is that Jesus has come to set free the Gentiles, as well as the Jew. Just as we saw an imputed curse of sin with Ham/Canaan, we see the righteousness of Christ that is imputed to those of us who have believe. Praise God that He has made a way for us to not receive the curse, but blessing instead!
In Genesis 7 we are reminded that the Fall effected all of creation. Plants, animals and mankind are destroyed due to the judgment of sin. We see Christ in knowing that the only way to escape such judgment was to be found in the Ark, just as one must be found in Christ.
Genesis 8 reminds us that though the Law had not been spelled out on Mount Sinai yet, Noah understood that the sacrifices on the altar were to be clean animals. Even if the designation did not come until later (and Moses was using the term to describe the sacrifices), it cannot be escaped that Noah knew these were the type of animals to offer. This once again reminds us that the Old Testament saints knew more about the atonement than we sometime credit them.
Genesis 9 shows inheritance/imputation. The covenant with Noah extends to all successive generations (12), a blessing we do not deserve but inherit. Near the end of the chapter, the curse for Ham's sin is inherited by Canaan.
Genesis 10 & 11 begin to introduce how the gospel applies to all nations. It allows us to see that all nations have extended from Noah. It also reminds us how the nations came to be. Of course, the chapter on nations does not end without bringing a glimpse of the hope of all nations. God is going to call Abram from among his nation to become a nation of His own.
Genesis 12 find the call of Abram and the great statement, "And in you all the families of the earth will be blessed!" We also see that Abram also flees to Egypt, but does not come out perfect like Christ. He sins and pretends Sarai is his sister. Yet, God preserves His own and will not allow the lineage of Abram to be broken by the Pharaoh.
Matthew 3 introduces us to John the Baptist. His ministry is a ministry of repentance. The Kingdom of God is at hand, and our proper response is to repent. Though Jesus has no need to be baptized, He does it as an active form of righteousness. This reminds us that it would not put us in good standing with God if we simply had our sin removed, we must also be righteous. And we are dependent upon God's grace for His righteousness to be imputed.
In Matthew 4, Jesus fares better in the wilderness than the Israelites. Though Satan's activity is always the same, distorting the Word, Jesus responds with a proper understanding of the Word of God. Once John has been captured, Jesus begins to preach the same message, "Repent, for the kingdom of God is at hand." This ministry extends throughout Israel and even to regions like Decapolis...an area with large Gentile population.
Some threads that are clearly seen as shared is that Jesus has come to set free the Gentiles, as well as the Jew. Just as we saw an imputed curse of sin with Ham/Canaan, we see the righteousness of Christ that is imputed to those of us who have believe. Praise God that He has made a way for us to not receive the curse, but blessing instead!
Friday, January 1, 2010
Genesis 1-6 // Matthew 1-2
At first glance, Genesis 1-6 and Matthew 1-2 do not appear to overlap. After all, Matthew doesn't even start his genealogy until Abraham, and each Old Testament passage quoted comes after the Law. However, there are things to notice which point to Christ.
Of course, Genesis 3:15 is clearly understood as Messianic. The Seed (Jesus) will strike the head of the Serpent (Satan). This strike will cause pain to the Seed as well, but not ultimately fatal.
Peter also tells us we should understand the ark as a picture of Jesus. Therefore, Genesis 6 provides a shadow of the saving work that Christ will accomplish on our behalf.
We can also see the intention of God. He is not reacting to the actions of man. He is acting, know the past, present and future all at once, and causing all things to work for His glory. The first words of creation were spoken with the sacrifice of Christ in full view. This can be seen when the Triune God says, "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; and let them rule over..." Multiplication was always in mind.
But not just random multiplication. God is very interested in the Seed. Satan tries to snuff this out by destroying Abel. Abel appears to understand the need for blood atonement, and Cain--who rejects this--takes Cain's life. However, we quickly see that God will bring the seed through Seth.
Because Seth's lineage provides very little detail, we can sometimes assume that not much was happening in their lives. In fact, those details which we see (eg. Men began to call upon the Lord) are usually statements of virtue. We could be tempted to believe these men were perfect, not struggling with sin. We're also reminded that Moses' intention is not simply historical. Throughout Seth's lineage we read, "and he had other sons and daughters." Yet Moses is not concerned with these sons and daughters. It is not that they are insignificant, they are created in God's image too. However, they do not serve the purpose of drawing the line to the Seed, therefore Moses does not bother to bring out their details.
However, Cain's lineage provides a different picture. Lamach is a murderer and adulterer. He sees the shedding of blood not as his atonement, but as a means to gain from others. Yet we see God's general grace in that some of Cain's men helped develop tools that make life easier for men.
It's interesting that Cain's lineage has a lot of similarity to Seth's. In Cain's line, Enoch's grandson gave birth to Methushael who gave birth to Lamech. In Seth's line, Enoch gave birth to Methuselah who gave birth to Lamech. This should not confuse us or cause us to doubt the validity of the Text, it just illustrates to us the two lines have more in common than we might think.
Ultimately, this is visible in the line which Matthew produces for us. What do we find in the line of the Seed? Perfection? Hardly. In one man, David, we find the common grace seen in Jubal, but we also see the murderer/adulterer found in Lamech. Yet, David, like the men in Enosh's day called upon the name of the Lord.
These accounts are not simple history. They are the story, like Noah, that in the midst of sin and depravity that has effected all men from Adam down, God allows some to find grace in His sight. This grace has always been directed beyond skin coverings and the ark, and ultimately to Jesus!
Of course, Genesis 3:15 is clearly understood as Messianic. The Seed (Jesus) will strike the head of the Serpent (Satan). This strike will cause pain to the Seed as well, but not ultimately fatal.
Peter also tells us we should understand the ark as a picture of Jesus. Therefore, Genesis 6 provides a shadow of the saving work that Christ will accomplish on our behalf.
We can also see the intention of God. He is not reacting to the actions of man. He is acting, know the past, present and future all at once, and causing all things to work for His glory. The first words of creation were spoken with the sacrifice of Christ in full view. This can be seen when the Triune God says, "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; and let them rule over..." Multiplication was always in mind.
But not just random multiplication. God is very interested in the Seed. Satan tries to snuff this out by destroying Abel. Abel appears to understand the need for blood atonement, and Cain--who rejects this--takes Cain's life. However, we quickly see that God will bring the seed through Seth.
Because Seth's lineage provides very little detail, we can sometimes assume that not much was happening in their lives. In fact, those details which we see (eg. Men began to call upon the Lord) are usually statements of virtue. We could be tempted to believe these men were perfect, not struggling with sin. We're also reminded that Moses' intention is not simply historical. Throughout Seth's lineage we read, "and he had other sons and daughters." Yet Moses is not concerned with these sons and daughters. It is not that they are insignificant, they are created in God's image too. However, they do not serve the purpose of drawing the line to the Seed, therefore Moses does not bother to bring out their details.
However, Cain's lineage provides a different picture. Lamach is a murderer and adulterer. He sees the shedding of blood not as his atonement, but as a means to gain from others. Yet we see God's general grace in that some of Cain's men helped develop tools that make life easier for men.
It's interesting that Cain's lineage has a lot of similarity to Seth's. In Cain's line, Enoch's grandson gave birth to Methushael who gave birth to Lamech. In Seth's line, Enoch gave birth to Methuselah who gave birth to Lamech. This should not confuse us or cause us to doubt the validity of the Text, it just illustrates to us the two lines have more in common than we might think.
Ultimately, this is visible in the line which Matthew produces for us. What do we find in the line of the Seed? Perfection? Hardly. In one man, David, we find the common grace seen in Jubal, but we also see the murderer/adulterer found in Lamech. Yet, David, like the men in Enosh's day called upon the name of the Lord.
These accounts are not simple history. They are the story, like Noah, that in the midst of sin and depravity that has effected all men from Adam down, God allows some to find grace in His sight. This grace has always been directed beyond skin coverings and the ark, and ultimately to Jesus!
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