THE LORD SPOKE (March 31)

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Joshua 12-13

What happens when you get old and there’s still a lot to do? What if you run out of time before you accomplish everything you’d hoped to do? God says to Joshua, “You are very old, and there are still very large areas of land to be taken over” (Josh. 13:1).

Here are a couple principles to start you thinking about that:

1. You have exactly the same amount of time that anyone and everyone else has. You are responsible before God for how you use every single minute of it. You will give an account.
2. The time you have is exactly sufficient to accomplish everything that God has planned for you to do.
3. If you find yourself unable to finish the task (à la Joshua), it’s due to one of two things: (a) you didn’t use the time given to you properly, or (b) you’re trying to do things that God doesn’t intend for you to do.
4. A job finished and well-done is an honor to God and to the doer. Accomplishment and satisfaction go hand-in-hand and there is an eternal reward at the end of that road.

The words Joshua heard in Joshua 13:1 must have served as a wake-up call. The rest of the chapter and what follows indicate that he was a busy, busy man for the remainder of his days. His epitaph is one of the best that any leader could ever hope for:

Israel served the Lord throughout the lifetime of Joshua and of the elders who outlived him and who had experienced everything the Lord had done for Israel. (Josh. 24:31)

That whole generation and well into the next was faithful to the Lord because of Joshua’s example. That’s quite an epitaph.

How about you? What are they going to write on your stone?


New Testament: Acts 1

He’d been telling them from the beginning but their pre-conceived notions wouldn’t let them understand. They were looking for a Messiah who would initiate the Kingdom. But He kept saying that He must die. They didn’t want to believe that.

But now it had happened. They were utterly crushed at first but after His glorious resurrection had finally begun to see the significance of those many Scriptures which indicated exactly that. He would die because He had to in order to make atonement for sins. All the previous animal sacrifices suddenly made sense. He was in fact “the Lamb of God that would take away the sins of the whole world” by dying.

Now He was alive again! Could it be that now He would set up the Kingdom (Acts 1:6)? His answer was blunt. “It’s not for you to know.”

They were given a mission and the promise of the Holy Spirit for the journey. Power would accompany that quest. And indeed it did. What follows in verse 8 is an outline of just what happened in the remainder of the book:

• witnesses in Jerusalem (chapters 1-7)
• witnesses in Judea and Samaria (chapters 8-9)
• witnesses to the uttermost parts of the earth (chapters 10-28)

Jesus doesn’t ignore their initial question. The answer is tucked into verse 11 and it comes from the angels who were there on the Mount of Olives at the Ascension. As the disciples stared heavenwards, they were told, “This same Jesus...will come back!” His first advent fulfilled God’s purpose that He should suffer and die. In His second advent, He will fulfill the remaining prophecies about His earthly kingdom.

“Even so, come Lord Jesus!” (Rev. 22:20).

THE LORD SPOKE (March 30)

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Joshua 10-11

“There has never been a day like it before or since, a day when the Lord listened to the voice of a man.” (Josh. 10:14)

Indeed! And aren’t you glad?! Aren’t you glad that God listens to the voice of a man? Where would we be if He did not hear our prayers?

Joshua was at the end of his rope. They’d marched all night (Josh. 10:9) and then fought all day (Josh. 10:13). That’s an important detail. He wasn’t back in camp in Gilgal holding a prayer meeting. Not that there’s anything wrong with a prayer meeting but there’s a time to pray and there’s a time to act and this was the time to act. (See Joshua 7:10-11 for a similar situation where the Lord had to tell Joshua to stop praying and get busy with his job.)

Joshua prayed as though he never worked and then he worked as though he never prayed. That’s a winning combination because God expects us to ask Him for everything, to commit all our anxieties to Him, to pray without ceasing. That must come first, lest we run the risk of trying to solve our own problems in the power of the flesh.

But then there is a divine/human cooperative that takes over. God gives us the physical strength, the mental capacity, and the resources and abilities to answer our own prayers. There’s still (always) the risk of trying to do it in our own strength but there is certainly the element of obedient action on our part.

Look at Joshua. He did everything he was supposed to do: he actively trained his men for war, he sent out spies and made sure he was familiar with the terrain, he got all the necessary supplies together, he set the alarm clock so he could move out at zero hour, he pushed his men to the top of the hill and fought bravely across the plateau, he pursued the enemy to drive him completely out. But he ran out of time. He was at the end of his rope. He cried out to the Lord for help.

And “the Lord listened to the voice of a man”. He’ll do the same for you. Call on Him!


New Testament: John 21

Have you ever noticed how a particular scent can bring back memories in an instant? Something you smell can transport you back miles and years to an event or memory from the past. Most likely, that happened to Peter in this chapter. When he got ashore and smelled the “fire of burning coals” (Jn. 21:9) he no doubt had a flashback to that night in the courtyard of Caiaphas when he’d denied the Lord three times. The word for “coal fire” is a peculiar Greek word only used twice in the whole New Testament - John 18:18 and John 21:9. The smell of those coals must have brought back a flood of memories.

Everything else did too. He’d seen those hands before giving out bread and fish on that same shoreline. He’d heard that voice before saying, “Follow me!” at that same corner of the lake. He’d felt that same rush of joy before when the Master said, “I have a job for you to do.”

In a moment of time, Peter learned that loving God properly will (1) free you from your past, (2) give you a mission and real purpose for your present, and (3) take away all your fears about the future. He’d been learning about it for three years but he finally understood what it meant to move from fisherman to shepherd. Later he would pen these words:

Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers - not because you must but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.... Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. I Pet. 5:2-4,6

It’s remarkable that John chose to end his Gospel in this way. In vs. 25 he tells us that there were many other things that Jesus did which were not recorded. In fact, if you put everything together from the four gospels combined, we have only about 52 days of Jesus’ life recorded for us. Out of 1000+ days of public ministry that’s not much! Yet John chose the restoration of Peter as his closing story.

That’s because every one of us has need of restoration. We’ve each one stumbled from time to time along the path. The Savior graciously reaches out to us and says, “Get up again - I’ll help you. I have a job for you to do.”

THE LORD SPOKE (March 29)

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Joshua 8-9

Divide and conquer. That was the military strategy used by Joshua and many generals after him. His first drive was up the middle. Coming in the back door from Transjordan, he hit Jericho first and then moved farther in to Ai, located in the central hills and northeast of Jerusalem.

The Central Benjamin Plateau is just west of Ai and would provide a very strategic staging ground for Joshua’s conquest of the heartland. His next move was down the ridge into the Aijalon Valley (Josh. 10), effectively cutting the country in two. A hard southern thrust knocked out the five Amorite kings and gave Israel control of the entire region.

Attention turned next to the northern coalition of kings that were gathering against him (Josh. 11). Joshua met and defeated them at the Waters of Merom near Hazor. “Then the land had rest from war” (Josh. 11:23b). Divide and conquer.

Unite and resist. The Gibeonites found the only way to survive before such superior force. By uniting with three other local cities (Josh. 9:17), they put together a deceptive ruse in an attempt to trick the Israelites into preserving their lives. It worked! Without consulting the Lord (Josh. 9:14), the men of Israel looked at their cracked sandals and moldy bread and made a treaty with them.

Big mistake! But there are some lessons in it for us:

1) Divide and conquer. The job before us is huge. How can we reach every person on the planet within our generation? Only if we work according to a plan, dividing up the task before us, and then moving intentionally in with trust in the Lord and victory as our goal.

2) Unite and resist. Together we can take back the ground our Enemy has captured. We’re to resist him, tooth and toenail. United we can stand against his fiery darts.

3) Consult the Lord. Let’s don’t make the mistake of Joshua’s men. Daily, systematically, and faithfully let us pursue a word from the Lord. Read Scripture so He can speak to you - it’s the tool by which the Holy Spirit gives direction.


New Testament: John 20

Missouri has no corner on the sight-first market. We all have a tendency to say, “Show me!” before we’ll swallow something. After all, “seeing is believing”.

While it was still dark on that first Sunday morning, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and “saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance”. We’re not told that she believed but her report indicates that she knew the tomb was empty (Jn. 20:1-2).

Next came Peter and John. John was first to arrive but at first he only looked inside. When he finally entered the empty tomb and saw the evidence, he believed (Jn. 20:8). Only later did he come to see the evidence in Scripture. Then he came to understand that Jesus had to rise from the dead.

That evening most of the disciples were together behind locked doors when Jesus appeared to them. They were “overjoyed when they saw the Lord” (Jn. 20:20 - might that be called 20/20 vision?). They rebounded with the message, “we have seen the Lord!” (Jn. 20:25). By the way, did you notice that “He showed them his hands and side”?

Poor Thomas missed the occasion and made his forever-name in history by saying “unless I see...I won’t believe”. So Jesus accommodated him by appearing again one week later and saying “see my hands” (Jn. 20:26-27). Thomas is smitten and cries out the most succinct statement of faith found in Scripture, “My Lord and my God!” to which Jesus replies:

“Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

And that’s still true 2000 years later! Have you come to see the Lord from these eye-witness accounts? He has, in fact, shown us the truth. Blessed are we if we believe.

THE LORD SPOKE (March 28)

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Joshua 6-7

She said he was all wrong. When John Garstang announced to the world in the early 1930's that he’d found the walls of Jericho that came tumbling down, he was excavating for the newly formed Department of Antiquities under the British Mandate. Kathleen Kenyon dug at Jericho under a similar license in the 1950's but had a very different objective. Though she contributed very significantly to modern scientific excavation procedures (we still call stratigraphic excavating the “Wheeler-Kenyon Method”), it’s fair to say that her anti-biblical bias frequently showed. She often dug, and reported her digging, as though no one ever excavated before her and it was certain that none could ever improve on her results.

In the case of Jericho, Kenyon flippantly disregarded all of Garstang’s work. According to her, not only did he not find the walls that came tumbling down, there wasn’t even a city at Jericho during the time that he (and the Bible) says Joshua attacked it. She drew her plans and her conclusions without any respect for the one existing historical document that tells the story of Jericho. She dismissed Scripture with contempt. Yet in her own site maps and sectional drawings the evidence is there. The pottery fits the biblical record and there is ample Late Bronze evidence for a city. In fact, she found solid Middle Bronze wall foundations with “burned mudbrick” at the outside base. That’s exactly what should be expected from the biblical account of the city being destroyed and burned during the Late Bronze period.

Ultimately, the truth of Scripture does not depend on Kenyon, or Garstang, or any other outside collaborating source. That is not to say it is some sort of spiritual or mystical religious “truth", unverifiable and above analysis or beyond our powers to test it. As Francis Schaeffer would say, the Bible gives us “true truth”. It is verifiable, not some blind leap in the dark. Because it is God’s revealed Word, it is trustworthy. You may read it with confidence - even when it talks about the walls of Jericho tumbling down.

The Bible stands like a rock undaunted
'Mid the raging storms of time;
Its pages burn with the truth eternal,
And they glow with a light sublime.

The Bible stands like a mountain towering
Far above the works of men;
Its truth by none ever was refuted,
And destroy it they never can.

The Bible stands every test we give it,
For its Author is divine;
By grace alone I expect to live it,
And to prove and to make it mine.

The Bible stands though the hills may tumble,
It will firmly stand when the earth shall crumble;
I will plant my feet on its firm foundation,
For the Bible stands.
Haldor Lillenas


New Testament: John 19

No one questions the fact of crucifixion; we just don’t have much archaeological evidence for it. Josephus gives details of multiple crucifixions. On one occasion he records that there were 800 Pharisees crucified at one time (Antiquities of the Jews 12:256). Another ancient account refers to 6,000 prisoners of war being crucified along the Via Appia, as part of a victory celebration (Bella Civilia I.120).

But in all the studies done on the subject, there has been only one case of crucifixion found so far archaeologically. It involves the ossuary (bone box) of one “Yehohanan, son of Hagakol”, found in 1968 on the Mount of Olives (Giv’at ha-Mivtar). Inside were the decayed remains of a Jewish man.

The evidence produced was astounding. Yehohanan’s feet had been pulled together with a single spike driven through them. Apparently the nail hit a knot, for the tip was curled in such a way that it couldn’t be removed from the ankle bones so he was buried with the spike still there. A rubbed spot between the bones of the wrists gave evidence for where his “hands” had been nailed to the cross. In Hebrew the term yad means “hand” but can include most of the appendage that we would refer to as “arm”.

A further detail found among Yehohanan’s remains also casts light on our understanding of crucifixion. His leg bones had been broken with a blunt instrument of some sort. The break was diagonal, indicating that the legs had been drawn slightly upwards. The cross behind them had produced the shattered diagonal fracture when the club crushed Yehohanan's legs.

Death by crucifixion was slow and filled with intense pain. Publicly exposed, usually along a road near a town, the victim would often hang for hours before dying. Death was the result of asphyxiation but it was soon discovered that by spreading the hands farther apart it could be delayed. In some cases, the cross had a small perch on which the victim could momentarily relieve the pressure on his hands or on his feet by pushing against it. Rather than provide comfort, it prolonged the agony and death which then might come from loss of blood.

Jesus’ crucifixion was humiliating and painful beyond our imagination. As the blood drained from His body, He spoke little. Clearing His throat after the vinegar-soaked hyssop was put to His lips, He cried out. All three synoptic Gospels say He cried out “with a loud voice”.

His words constitute our glorious hope and assurance of salvation - “It is finished!”

THE LORD SPOKE (March 27)

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Joshua 3-5

“You have never been this way before.” (Josh. 3:4)

It’s always a good time to trust the Lord and to seek His direction. But when you’re plowing new ground, you don’t want to fail in this regard. How comforting must have been the next words that Joshua heard: “tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you” (Josh. 3:5).

Not only that... Joshua was promised that the Lord would be with him just as He had been with Moses (Josh. 3:7). That’s quite a remarkable promise when you consider everything the Bible tells us about Moses’ walk with God. It’s probably safe to say that Moses’ relationship to the Lord was as close as any other man’s has ever been. Abraham was a “friend of God” and David was a “man after God’s own heart”. But Moses was “faithful in all God’s house” (Heb. 3:2) and no prophet like him ever arose until Jesus (see Deut. 18:15 and 34:10 with Heb. 3:1-6).

So Joshua was commissioned and “that day the Lord exalted Joshua in the sight of all Israel” (Josh. 4:14). It was still a new path that he was following but he was indeed following. Once they crossed the Jordan River many things changed. There was no more manna (Josh. 5:12) and we hear nothing more of the cloudy pillar or the fire by night that led them through the wilderness. But there was plenty of uncertainty on this side too and it required of Joshua a steady trust. The Ark of the Covenant was still a factor for awhile but of increasing importance was the systematic, faithful, dependent following of God’s written Word (Josh. 1:8-9).

And that’s the way it still is for us today. We have the same God and the same assurance of His direction. We now have the completed canon of Scripture and we have the indwelling Spirit to guide us into all truth. So, really, we’re much better off than Joshua was. Are you ready to assault the Enemy’s strongholds today? Do so in the strength of the Lord.

My Lord knows the way through the wilderness,
All I have to do is follow.
My Lord knows the way through the wilderness,
All I have to do is follow.
Strength for today is mine all the way,
And all that I need for tomorrow.
My Lord knows the way through the wilderness,
All I have to do is follow.


New Testament: John 18

All four gospels tell the story of Peter’s three denials but only John was actually an eye witness. Because he “was known to the High Priest” (vs. 15), he was able to get in to the courtyard unnoticed. In fact, it was he who slipped back to the entrance and got Peter in too. But of the twelve, only those two were there. Though it was supposed to be spring already, they were having a cold winter (vs. 18) and there was a fire in the courtyard. People were warming themselves around it when Peter was recognized.

He’d been on an emotional roller-coaster for several days previously. All week long there had been high and low moments. It started with coming up from the Jordan River to Bethany and seeing Lazarus brought back to life. He’d seen Jesus do it three times before but it’s just not something you ever get used to! Then, on the way into Jerusalem, people had triumphantly acclaimed Jesus as King. Those cheering crowds were hard to forget - especially tonight with what’s going on here. Next, Jesus had kicked out the money-changers and salesmen at the Temple a second time. And now the authorities were really mad and out to get Him.

Jesus had snatched several moments throughout the week to teach them but much of it had been very hard to understand - and harder yet to accept. Watching Him down on His knees with a towel wrapped around Him to wash their feet was almost too much to take. Peter didn’t want to have anything to do with it at first. Finding out that one of their band of brothers was a traitor had pushed him over the edge and he’d attempted murder.

Now he could see his Master, bruised and bone-weary, being badgered by a bunch of bigots. Look at him - that Caiaphas! As crooked as they come, yet so self-righteous in leading this sham of a “trial”. With a flip of his finger he orders an “official” to slap Jesus in the face.

Why did those people keep questioning him? Couldn’t they just leave him alone? For the rest of his life, Peter hated mornings and stayed away from barnyards. Those lousy roosters! For the moment, the darkness only got darker. At the lowest moment of all, God Himself shut out all the lights and Peter could not even see his Friend hanging there on the cross.

But then the Light returned. The warmth and glory was inextinguishable. He arose triumphant from the dark domain, and He lives forever with His saints to reign. Hallelujah!

THE LORD SPOKE (March 26)

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Joshua 1-2

Joshua was a man set to change history. From his call by God (Josh. 1:1-3), he was given the monstrous task of leading the children of Israel after Moses. Three times (Josh. 1:6,7,9) he was commanded to “Be strong and courageous!” No doubt, he needed that reminder.

Two things stand out in the text. First is the promise of the Lord’s enabling presence: “I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.... The Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Josh. 1:5,9). He’s told that God would be with him “just as he was with Moses” and that’s really saying something!

The second factor is Joshua’s link to the Word of God. Moses had written down God’s revelation to him. A copy of those five books were recorded on a scroll (“this Book of the Law”) and given to Joshua to instruct him in the way he should go. He was to “meditate on it day and night” and to be careful to put every detail into practice (Josh. 1:8). Then, and only then, was success guaranteed.

Our situation is not far different. You may not have to lead a recalcitrant people like Israel, and you may not find yourself following in the footsteps of a man like Moses. But, no doubt, you need and want the Lord’s enabling presence in your life. Jesus has promised that the Comforter would be with us forever (Jn. 14:16,26; 15:26). Besides His enabling presence, He will guide us into all truth.

When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment: in regard to sin, because men do not believe in me; in regard to righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see me no longer; and in regard to judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned. "I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all 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. (Jn. 16:8-13)

A major part of the Holy Spirit’s presence in our lives is in leading us to an understanding of the proper meaning (interpretation) and application of Scripture. That, of course, presupposes that we are reading Scripture regularly, systematically, and with an open heart.

How is it with you? Do you hear His voice?


New Testament: John 17

It almost feels like eavesdropping. We’re allowed for a moment to listen in on an intimate conversation between the persons of the Godhead. Once again Jesus is found praying just before a momentous event - in this case, His hour of greatest need. This was his “finest hour” and we are allowed to listen in.

His words are a grand summary of what is most important in life. All the elements are there! Consider the following:

• PRAYER - The whole of this chapter is a prayer but three times the Lord states specific requests: “I pray for [the ones you gave me]” (vs. 9); “My prayer is...that you would protect them from the evil one” (vs. 15); and “My prayer is for...those who will believe in me through their message” (vs. 20).
• SCRIPTURE - All things come about “so that the Scripture would be fulfilled” (vs. 12). Jesus says, “I have given them your word” (vs. 14) and “your word is truth” (vs. 17). It’s what motivates us to obey Him (vs. 6).
• RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD - This - to know God - constitutes eternal life (vs. 3). It comes to us by revelation (vs. 6, 8). It is what sustains us through all trials (vs. 11, 12) and that which will protect [us] from the evil one” (vs. 15).
• MISSION / PURPOSE IN LIFE - By His example (“I have brought you glory” - vs. 4a), Jesus has shown us the ultimate purpose of life. Just as he completed the work the Father gave Him to do we are to carry on that mission. He has sent us into the world (mentioned 18x in this chapter!) to spread His message so that others will believe also (vs. 20).
• LOVE - God’s love for us is what motivates us to seek His glory (vs. 24-26). This is in stark contrast to the world which produces only hate (vs. 14). So, while we’re in the world, we’re not of the world. But Christ has placed us in the world to demonstrate His love to others (vs. 23).

What a prayer! Maybe it will motivate us to think a little more about how we pray.

THE LORD SPOKE (March 25)

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Deuteronomy 33-34

Moses did a lot of mountain climbing. He was up and down Mt. Sinai more times than a man much younger would care to do. Here in Deuteronomy 34 he climbs his last mountain. Going up from the plains of Moab on the chain of Nebo, he ascends Mt. Pisgah, the highest peak opposite Jericho.

It wasn’t a happy climb. On the threshold of the Promised Land, his sin allowed him a look but no entry. God had just recently (Deut. 32:51-52) reminded him of the reason: “because...your broke faith with me...and because you did not uphold my holiness among the Israelites.” When he came to Mt. Pisgah, Moses knew that it would be his last mountain to climb. We’re told that God buried him there.

He’d lived a long and fruitful life. “His eyes were not weak nor his strength gone” (Deut. 34:7). No other prophet ever rose higher. No other prophet ever did “all the miraculous signs and wonders the Lord sent him to do” (Deut. 34:11). No man ever had “the mighty power or performed the awesome deeds that Moses did in the sight of all Israel” (Deut. 34:12).

Until Jesus! Moses was a true servant but Jesus is the only begotten Son.

Therefore, holy brothers, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, the apostle and high priest whom we confess. He was faithful to the one who appointed him, just as Moses was faithful in all God's house. Jesus has been found worthy of greater honor than Moses, just as the builder of a house has greater honor than the house itself. For every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything. Moses was faithful as a servant in all God's house, testifying to what would be said in the future. But Christ is faithful as a son over God's house. And we are his house, if we hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast. (Heb 3:1-6)

The One greater than Moses has come. He alone is able to take us safely to the other side. He will be our Guide, even unto death.

On Jordan’s stormy banks I stand,
And cast a wishful eye
To Canaan’s fair and happy land,
Where my possessions lie.

I am bound for the Promised Land,
I am bound for the Promised Land.
O who will come and go with me?
I am bound for the Promised Land.

When shall I reach that happy place,
And be forever blest?
When shall I see my Father’s face,
And in His bosom rest?

I am bound for the Promised Land,
I am bound for the Promised Land.
O who will come and go with me?
I am bound for the Promised Land.


New Testament: John 16

It’s so very plain - why do we not get it? Jesus says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Note the contrast between “in me” and “in this world”. And then notice the contrast between “you will have peace” and “you will have trouble”. If we abide in Christ (remember John 15?) we will experience deep peace and quietness in our soul. If we continue to play with the world and its ways of thinking, we can expect agitation and anguish of soul. It’s as simple as that.

The disciples had just declared, “Now we understand!” But did they? If so, their understanding was still only head knowledge. Jesus Himself predicted that they would yet be scattered (Jn. 16:32: c.f. Mat. 26:31) and abandon Him. They were still depending upon themselves and He knew they would fail. But the majesty of His plan is that it’s not built on our strength but on His ability to use us even after we fail!

My sin - O, the bliss of this glorious thought -
My sin - not in part, but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!

A major part of the reason we can rest secure in this thought is the utter dependability of Christ. He never fails. He always follows the Father’s plan perfectly. He has said, “I do exactly what my Father has commanded me” (Jn. 14:31) and “everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you” (Jn. 15:15). Like clockwork, He said “I came from the Father and entered the world; now I am leaving the world and going back to the Father” (Jn. 16:28).

By the way, that’s the perfect outline of John’s gospel: “I came from the Father and entered the world; now I am leaving the world and going back to the Father.”

• came from the Father - chapter 1
• entered the world - chapters 2-11
• leaving the world - chapters 12-19
• back to the Father - chapters 20-21

That’s what makes it especially good news and so believable when He says, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me...” (Jn. 14:3).

THE LORD SPOKE (March 24)

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Deuteronomy 31-32

This is Moses’ Swan Song. “The magnificence of the exordium, the grandeur of the theme, the frequent and sudden transitions, the elevated strain of the sentiments and language, entitle this song to be ranked amongst the noblest specimens of poetry to be found in the Scriptures.” (Jamison, Fausset, & Brown).

In these parting words, Moses takes a care to tell a tale, to sing a song, and to pray a prayer. Right to the end he is reminding the children of Israel of their responsibility before the Lord. This is now his last message to them. See if you can preach it.

I. GOD’S JUSTICE AND ISRAEL’S DISLOYALTY (Deut. 32:1-18)
A. God’s Past Blessings
B. Israel’s Constant Disloyalty

II. GOD’S PUNISHMENT OF ISRAEL (Deut. 32:19-30)

III. GOD’S VENGEANCE ON HIS ENEMIES (Deut. 32:31-35)

IV. GOD’S COMPASSION ON ISRAEL (Deut. 32:36-43)

Tucked in the middle, Deuteronomy 32:11 makes reference to an eagle “that stirs up its nest and hovers over its young, that spreads its wings to catch them and carries them on its pinions”. There is an obvious link here with what God did and was doing with Israel but perhaps Moses saw himself in this too. After all, he had worked hard right up to the finish to see Israel now cast out of the nest, learning to fly on her own. It was scary. The watching parent cringes to see the first feeble attempts, but takes great joy in the flight that follows.

Let F.B. Meyer break out the illustration for us:

1) She stirs up her nest. When her fledglings are old enough to fly, but linger around the few bits of stick, dignified as a nest, the mother-bird breaks it up, and scatters them.... So when the Father sees His children clinging to earth's bare rocks, captured and held by the poor sticks they have gathered, and missing the ascension-glory, He breaks up the nest....

2) She flutters over her young. They stand scared and wretched on the edge of the rock, but she careers gently above them, now edging around, now mounting, then dropping far below to rise again. So would she allure them to follow her example. Here again we have an emblem of God's efforts to make us imitators of Himself, to teach us the possibilities that await us in Jesus.

3) She spreads forth her wings and takes them. Incited by the mother's endeavors, the eaglet may venture on the untried air... [but] the unaccustomed wings fail beneath its weight. It falls, but not far, for the mother swoops beneath, and bears it up and away.

This is a good description not only of what God did for Israel, but of what He does for us!


New Testament: John 15

If my life is fruitless, it doesn’t matter who praises me, and if my life is fruitful, it doesn’t matter who criticizes me. - John Bunyan

Pruning looks so brutal but its purpose is to produce more and better fruit. Rather than putting energy into producing more or thicker branches, pruning directs the energy into the fruit. Bad branches are cut out completely. Good branches are pruned back (Jn. 15:2) so that they will serve their God-given purpose and produce fruit. They are a channel, nothing more. They exist to transmit the nourishing sap from the vine to the grape.

None of those branches can produce fruit by themselves (Jn. 15:4). They must be attached to the trunk or the life-producing sap won’t flow through them. They become dried up and brittle - fit only for kindling in the stove (Jn. 15:6).

Jesus’ words, “I am the vine, you are the branches”, couldn’t be more clear. But He does clarify it by saying, “you must abide in me in order to produce fruit”. So, how does one abide in Christ? Here’s the answer from John 15:6-17.

1. remain in Him (“remain in me”) - don’t leave, don’t give up, don’t divert your attention, don’t forget your purpose, don’t lose your motivation
2. retain His words (“my words remain in you”) - read Scripture daily, internalize it regularly, apply it consistently, live by it always
3. request of Him what you wish (“ask whatever you wish”) - like a child trust Him, believe in His goodness, ask for His provision
4. reproduce Him in others (“that you bear much fruit”) -till the soil, spread the seed, cultivate the ground, water the plants, reap the harvest
5. reflect Him in your actions (“showing yourselves to be my disciples”) - be a band of brothers, lean on each other, help each other, be a mentor
6. respond to His commands (“obey my commands”) - say “yes”, look for opportunities, go out of your way to serve, get off the fence, fail falling forward
7. rejoice in Him (“so that my joy may be in you”) - talk about it, tell others about it, sing about it, let it show on your face and in your actions
8. run with His children (“love each other”) - run with the right crowd, walk a mile in their moccasins, bear one another’s burdens
9. revel in knowing Him (“everything...I have made known to you”) - think about Him, dwell upon His grace and goodness, relive the past, relish the present, and dream about the future
10. replicate His life in your own (“go and bear fruit”) - what would He do? go and do likewise!

THE LORD SPOKE (March 23)

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Deuteronomy 29-30

It’s so straightforward and clear. God says, “If you do this, I will bless you. But, if you do that, I will curse you.” With very few exceptions things are written in black and white. True, there are some grey areas that we don’t always understand. But like Mark Twain said, "It ain't the parts of the Bible that I can't understand that bother me, it is the parts that I do understand." (Quoted in Alex Ayres, The Wit and Wisdom of Mark Twain.)

Deuteronomy 30 is the capstone on the covenant. There are some remaining loose ends to be tied off in chapters 31-34 but, following the ancient treaty formula for royal covenants, this chapter closes with a calling forth of the witnesses. And who could stand witness for God? There being no likely candidate, He calls forth heaven and earth as witnesses.

This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the LORD is your life, and he will give you many years in the land he swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. (Deut. 30:19-20)

The people of Israel, and we today, are given a clear choice. Follow God’s way or abandon Him and go your own way. Oh, and don’t forget, there are consequences. If you love the Lord your God and listen to His voice, He will provide for you, bless you, and cause you to prosper. If you turn from Him, He will judge you, let you go your merry way, and will abandon you to your own devices. And guess what? You’ll make a royal mess of things every time.

Did you catch the position, and therefore the meaning, of Deuteronomy 29:29?

The secret things belong to the LORD our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may follow all the words of this law [i.e. everything written down right here].

Doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure that out, does it?


New Testament: John 14

Is your heart troubled? Are there things happening in your life that have you weighed down? disturbed in your soul? tired? too weary to go on?

This chapter offers hope and the solution to these and every other problem. The short answer comes already in the first verse, “Trust in God!” (Jn. 14:1). The longer answer is spelled out in what follows and it’s broken down into three areas:

1) TRUST IN THE FATHER

• His house will be our final abode and it’s being made ready for us even now (14:2).
• He loves us (14:21).
• He has taken the initiative to provide for us everything that we need and His plan covers all contingencies (14:25).
• He is greater than all things and worthy of our trust (14:10,28).

2) TRUST IN THE SON

• He is (not just shows, but is) the way, the truth, and the life for us (14:6).
• He is open to our requests (14:13) and
• He speaks the words of the Father to us (14:10) and intercedes with Him on our behalf (14:12-14).
• He has promised to never leave us (14:18).

3) TRUST IN THE HOLY SPIRIT

• His role for us is as Counselor (14:16). He is our Advocate, both giving us wise advice and representing our interests to the Father.
• He will guide us to understand Truth (14:17).
• He will dwell in us (14:17) in order to be our ever-present Guide.
• He will help us remember the teachings of Scripture (14:26).

What is our part? To love Him (14:21), to obey His commands (14:23), to keep our eyes fixed on Him (14:9,19), and to trust and not fear (14:1,27).

When we walk with the Lord in the light of His Word,
What a glory He sheds on our way!
While we do His good will, He abides with us still,
And with all who will trust and obey.

Trust and obey, for there’s no other way
To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.

But we never can prove the delights of His love
Until all on the altar we lay;
For the favor He shows, for the joy He bestows,
Are for them who will trust and obey.

THE LORD SPOKE (March 22)

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Deuteronomy 27-28

In the synagogue, this portion is read in a chanting undertone and people are reluctant to be called up for the reading. Deuteronomy 28 contains some of the most frightening promises of Scripture for those who turn away from the Lord. When King Josiah read this passage (II Ki. 22:11, 19) he tore his robes.

To begin, GOD’S WRATH IS PROMISED FOR DISOBEDIENCE. Israel could be cursed by:

• destruction (vs. 20)
• disease (vs. 21)
• drought (vs. 23)
• defeat (vs. 25)
• dysfunction (vs. 28)
• disappointment (vs. 30)
• diaspora (vs. 37)
• decline in status (vs. 43)

GOD’S PROMISES ARE ETERNAL. This is true for the curses, but it is also true for the blessings. Spurgeon tells the story of being out on a yacht on the Clyde River with a threatening storm approaching. Suddenly, a huge rock known as “The Cock of Arran”, loomed dangerously near. Rather than sail recklessly on, the captain anchored in its shelter and found safety from the violent storm. This chapter is much the same - it appears a threatening, harsh sector. But it also holds the promise of safety from danger.

That’s because GOD’S DESIRE IS FOR OUR BLESSING. Just as the New Testament tells us, “He is not willing that any should perish...” (II Pet. 3:9). For Israel it was necessary to:
• return to the Land (vs. 8, 11, 21, 63)
• return to the LORD (the divine tetra-grammaton appears 37x in this chapter)
• return to the Law (vs. 58, see also 27:26)

Verse 58 is the hinge point in this chapter: If you do not carefully follow all the words of this law, which are written in this book, and do not revere this glorious and awesome name - the LORD your God - the LORD will send fearful plagues on you and your descendants, harsh and prolonged disaster, and severe and lingering illnesses.


New Testament: John 13

It’s the distinguishing mark of the Christian. According to Jesus, the characteristic quality which defines His followers is love for one another. A watching world will see the Lord by the love demonstrated by His disciples (Jn. 13:34-35).

Is that true? If so, why does our actual experience often look more like the ditty in our kids’ storybook?

There once were two cats of Killkenny.
They each thought there was one cat too many.
So they fought and they fit; they scratched and they bit,
Until... instead of two cats, there weren’t any.

Why are conflicts so common among us? Why is love frequently not a defining characteristic among us? Why is the evidence lacking?

John, over the years, must have gotten many of the same questions. Years later, in his first epistle, he revisits the theme in greater detail. First of all, he reminds us that it is a command (I Jn. 2:23). Jesus had said, “A new command I give to you: love one another.” (Jn. 13:34). That places it on the level of obey/disobey. It’s not “I feel like it”/ “I don’t feel like it”. It’s not “today, sure”/”tomorrow, forget it”. It must be understood as an order from our Commander in Chief. John follows it up with, “this is how we know that He lives in us” (I Jn. 2:24). In I John 4 he adds:

• vs. 7 - “love comes from God” and “everyone who loves has been born of God”
• vs. 8 - “whoever does not love does not know God”
• vs. 11 - “since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another”
• vs. 12 - “if we love one another, God lives in us”
• vs. 19 - “we love because He first loved us”
• vs. 20 - “anyone who does not love his brother...cannot love God”
• vs. 21 - “whoever loves God must also love his brother”

So there you have it. Like a garden, you must cultivate it. Like a valuable painting, you must display it. Like a fine instrument, you must tune it. Like a rare treasure, you must guard it. Like a little child, you must nurture it. Like a present, you must offer it to God.

THE LORD SPOKE (March 21)

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Deuteronomy 24-26

A few years ago one of the large distributors of Christian literature had a week-long special every year called “Unmuzzle the Ox”. While pastors might not enjoy being placed in that category, they did take advantage of the special discounts on books offered to ministers by that book club. Throughout the week, any pastor enjoyed some deep discounts on book prices.

The campaign title came from Deuteronomy 25:4 which says, “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain.” The Apostle Paul quotes this verse in I Corinthians 9:9-10 with the added comment that God is not only concerned about oxen. This command has to do also with the servants of Christ, those who “sow spiritual seed”, and their right to be paid for their labor or “reap a material harvest” (I Cor. 9:11). Paul nails it down in the last verse of this paragraph when he says plainly, “The Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.” (I Cor. 9:14).

Some might think that it’s unspiritual for a minister to “make money” from the ministry. Indeed, there have been some ugly examples of some very crass behavior in this area. People like Jim Bakker and Benny Hinn have brought much shame and disgrace not only on the ministry in general but also on the name of Christ by their wicked behavior.

But their sin does not alter the clear teaching of Scripture. For every one such example there are ten thousand faithful ministers who work hard in their service for the Lord and He has commanded that they be cared for.

The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, "Do not muzzle the ox while it is treading out the grain," and "The worker deserves his wages." (1Tim. 5:17-18)

New Testament: John 12

This chapter marks the end of Jesus’ public ministry. From here to the end of the book, He will move steadily towards the cross. With what little time He has left during those terrible last days, He will concentrate on His disciples. The time frame is only one week.

His objectives are very clear in His own mind, but the disciples still can’t get it. Though He quoted Scripture and demonstrated its fulfillment repeatedly (e.g. 12:14-15), “only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about him” (12:16). What were His objectives? He clearly lays down five in this discourse:

1. to be glorified (12:23,28) - Jesus was speaking of His subsequent resurrection and exaltation. His objective was to bring glory to the Father’s name and, in response, a voice boomed from heaven to confirm His success in this.
2. to die (12:24) - The greater glory would come by way of death. Just as a kernel of wheat must die in order to reproduce, Jesus had to die.
3. to judge this world (12:30,47) - By His death He crushed the serpent’s head and brought the whole world to account.
4. to draw all men (12:32) - Though it was the fulfillment of OT prophecies, His death was for all mankind. It is significant that Greeks were present at this moment (12:20).
5. to shed light (12:35,46) - It was for this purpose that He came and those who put their trust in Him not only walk in the light, they become “sons of light”, i.e. they share the characteristics of light and radiate Him to others.

The results? “Many even among the leaders believed in him” (12:42). Like the Greeks whose questions started the discourse, they came “to worship at the Feast” (12:20) but they ended up seeing Jesus. Seeing Him in a new way - through they eyes of faith. Glory! The hour had come.

THE LORD SPOKE (March 20)

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Deuteronomy 22-23

The NIV Study Bible is one of the very best. The quality of the notes is superb and they never skip over the hard issues, whether you agree with their conclusions or not. The introductions to each book are always helpful; some are among the best available anywhere (see, for example, the introduction to Psalms on pp. 781-786). The maps and charts throughout the book are always well-placed, accurate, and full of valuable information to the serious Bible student. For a start, check out the charts on covenants (p. 19), Israel’s feasts (p. 176), the intertestamental period (p. 1430), and the Herods (p. 1443).

Here in Deuteronomy 22 is inserted (p. 271) a very useful compilation of the “Major Social Concerns in the Covenant” (reproduced here with minor adaptations).

1. Personhood - Everyone’s person is to be secure (Ex. 20:13; 21:16-21,26-31; Lev. 19:14; Deut. 5:17; 24:7; 27:18).
2. False Accusation - Everyone is to be secure against slander and false accusation (Ex. 20:16; 23:1-3; Lev. 19:16; Deut. 5:20; 19:15-21).
3. Woman - No woman is to be taken advantage of within her subordinate status in society (Ex. 21:7-11,20,26-32; 22:16-17; Deut. 21:10-14; 22:13-30; 24:1-5).
4. Punishment - Punishment for wrongdoing shall not be excessive so that the culprit is dehumanized (Deut. 25:1-5).
5. Dignity - Every Israelite’s dignity and right to be God’s freedman and servant are to be honored and safeguarded (Ex. 21:2,5-6; Lev. 25; Deut. 15:12–18).
6. Inheritance - Every Israelite’s inheritance in the promised land is to be secure (Lev. 25; Num. 27:5-7; 36:1-9; Deut. 25:5-10).
7. Property - Everyone’s property is to be secure (Ex. 20:15; 21:33-36; 22:1-15; 23:4-5; Lev. 19:35-36; Deut. 5:19; 22:1-4; 25:13-15).
8. Fruit of Labor - Everyone is to receive the fruit of his labors (Lev. 19:13; Deut. 24:14; 25:4).
9. Fruit of the Ground - Everyone is to share the fruit of the ground (Ex. 23:10; Lev. 19:9-10; 23:22; 25:3-55; Deut. 14:28-29; 24:19-21).
10. Rest on Sabbath - Everyone, down to the humblest servant and the resident alien, is to share in the weekly rest of God’s Sabbath (Ex. 20:8-11; 23:12; Deut. 5:12-15).
11. Marriage - The marriage relationship is to be kept inviolate (Ex. 20:14; Lev. 18:6-23; 20:10-21; Deut. 5:18; 22:13-30).
12. Exploitation - No one, however disabled, impoverished or powerless, is to be oppressed or exploited (Ex. 22:12-27; Lev. 19:14,33-34; 25:35-36; Deut. 23:19; 24:6,12-15,17; 27:18).
13. Fair Trial - Everyone is to have free access to the courts and is to be afforded a fair trial (Ex. 23:6,8; Lev. 19:15; Deut. 1:17; 10:17-18; 16:18-20; 17:8-13; 19:15-21).
14. Social Order - Every person’s God-given place in the social order is to be honored (Ex. 20:12; 21:15; 17:22-28; Lev. 19:3,32; 20:9; Deut. 5:16; 17:8-13; 21:15-21; 27:16).
15. Law - No one shall be above the law, not even the king (Deut. 17:18-20).
16. Animals - Concern for the welfare of other creatures is to be extended to the animal world (Ex. 23:5,11; Lev. 25:7; Deut. 22:4,6-7; 25:4).

New Testament: John 11

In a day before telephones and text-messaging, you wonder how they knew in advance that Jesus was coming. It’s not like He kept it a secret. Only days after the near-stoning incident (Jn. 10:31-33), Jesus already began talking about going back to Jerusalem. Now Martha caught wind of it and walked out to meet Him on the way.

Others had their ears up too. The chief priests and Pharisees were monitoring His movements and when they began to pick up fresh news of His whereabouts, they called the council together to determine what to do. “We can’t let this go on or everybody will end up believing in him.” How significant! They saw Him as a threat to their own position as spiritual leaders. If people followed Him, their job as chief priests would be over (Jn. 11:48).

So they plotted. They looked for a way to trap Him. Interestingly, the most certain location to be sure to find Him was in a very public place - the Temple area (Jn. 11:56). With their spies well-placed they waited, knowing it wouldn’t be long before they would be able to arrest Him. In the meantime, leaders schemed behind closed doors, lying witnesses were located, and lawyers prepared their fabricated briefs.

The High Priest, Caiaphas, made a prophecy that Jesus would die for the Jewish nation (Jn. 11:49-52). His intention was anything but theological - it was pragmatic. His argument was that it was better for one person to be put to death, even if wrongly, than for the whole nation to die. In a way unintended by Caiaphas, Jesus did die for the benefit of the whole nation. In fact, His death was for the benefit of many other “scattered children of God” too (Jn. 11:52). The Jewish nation, at that time, did perish in that it was totally driven from the Land by the Romans. But many Jews believed and were given eternal life, never to perish, and the way was opened for many non-Jews to be grafted in.

As the chapter ends, Jesus ducked away to the little village of Ephraim for a short while. Named for the large tribe whose allotment fell north of Judah and Benjamin, this quiet spot was on the NW edge of the Judean desert. Off the main roads and a half day’s walk from Jerusalem, it offered the last solitude that Jesus needed with His disciples before the final week. They still wouldn’t fully understand until later but He was about to announce, “The hour has come!” (Jn. 12:23)

THE LORD SPOKE (March 19)

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Deuteronomy 20-21

If a man has a stubborn and rebellious son who does not obey his father and mother and will not listen to them when they discipline him, his father and mother shall take hold of him and bring him to the elders at the gate of his town. They shall say to the elders, "This son of ours is stubborn and rebellious. He will not obey us. He is a profligate and a drunkard." Then all the men of his town shall stone him to death. You must purge the evil from among you. All Israel will hear of it and be afraid. (Deut. 21:18-21)

Here’s one law that’s probably written not primarily for the law-breaker. Ultimately, of course, it is. The rebellious son is the one who will be corrected in the end, but the whole purpose of this law is to not get to that end!

This law is much more for the father of a rebellious son. Can you ever imagine a caring, engaged, father coming to the point of calling the elders to execute his own son? Would he not first do everything in his power to correct his own boy?

This law will make you take your responsibility as a parent much more seriously! If you really understood that the death penalty is punishment for a rebellious child wouldn’t you start a little earlier, work a little harder, and give yourself a lot more to the task of child discipline?

So, maybe you’re glad we don’t live under the Mosaic Code anymore. But are we really better off? Parents today who don’t teach their children to be disciplined, law-abiding, God-following people condemn them to a death every bit as horrible as death by stoning. That undisciplined child will grow up to be an undisciplined adult who will suffer shame, confusion, personal pain, rejection by society, alienation from decent people, and much more.

For the rest of his life, if he doesn’t change, he will die a slow death. And it’s your fault as a parent because you didn’t correct his path at an early stage. You have condemned your own flesh and blood to such a miserable existence because you were “too tired to deal with it right now” or some other such foolish excuse for not disciplining your son or daughter.

This is a matter of life and death. A godly child is an absolute joy but a wayward son is a rottenness in the bones. Start early and don’t give up!


New Testament: John 10

The Feast of Dedication. We know it better today as Hanukkah. Thought not one of the Levitical festivals, it is a “biblical” holiday in that it happened in the Temple during Bible times and is celebrated here in the New Testament by Jesus. Jews commemorate the miraculous extension of light from the oil at the Dedication of the Temple in December, 165 B.C. Judas Maccabees led the people in cleansing the Temple and re-instituting the sacrifices after Antiochus Epiphanes had desecrated it by offering a pig on the altar.

On this occasion, nearly 200 years after the initial event, the crowd was in suspense (Jn. 10:24). They had been following Jesus, wondering at His works, listening to the testimony of those healed, hearing the debates in public places. He was under increasing scrutiny of the religious leaders and many expected Him to be arrested or worse. The evidence was growing that He was a prophet - it had been 400 years since the last one. Or maybe more. Could He really be the Messiah? “If you are, please just tell us!”

But He had! Some had heard more than mere words. They had really heard His voice and knew He was the long-awaited Shepherd of Israel. They followed that voice. And there it is again - a direct claim to deity! It may not be so clear to us today because we’re not familiar with the 1st century Jewish language, culture, and theology. But the religious leaders heard it very clearly and were ready to stone Him for blasphemy (Jn. 10:31-33).

Not only was He claiming to be the Messiah, He was claiming to be God. The works backed up the words and no one could argue that point! They might not like it. They might not want to believe it. But they couldn’t find answers to deny it. So they resorted to violence.

But Jesus’ time had not yet come. John doesn’t tell us the details of how, but somehow He slipped from their grasp again (Jn. 10:39). Back on the other side of the Jordan many new believers received entry permits to heaven. Do you have some questions you’d like to ask them when you get there? You are going, aren’t you?

THE LORD SPOKE (March 18)

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Deuteronomy 17-19

This is an application, not an interpretation. It’s an allegory of sorts. The clear interpretation of Deuteronomy 17:15-20 has to do with God’s requirements for Israel’s kings. But here’s the connection: to Man has been given the “rule” over creation (Gen. 1:26-29; 2:15; 9:2). From this passage in Deuteronomy we can extract a lesson on how man is responsible to God to rule over the earth and his environment.

I. He is a REGAL SOVEREIGN.

He is “not a foreigner” - in our context, we need to recognize that we too are a part of God’s creation. We are part of the very creation over which we are placed as lords. You don’t have to be a “hug-a-tree” new-ager to appreciate that! We are responsible to rule over it, to provide for it, to use it, to not abuse it, but to enjoy it!

II. He is to be a REASONABLE SHAREHOLDER.

He is “not [to] acquire great numbers”. By law, no individual(s) should be allowed to monopolize the land or resources. Certainly none should waste or abuse resources, nor should he not allow others to do so. There’s an interesting paragraph written by Benjamin Franklin but eventually not included in the Declaration of Independence which says: “That an enormous proportion of property vested in a few individuals is dangerous to the rights and destructive of the common happiness of mankind; and therefore every free state hath a right by its laws to discourage the possession of such property.”

III. He should be a READY STUDENT.

The king was to “write...read...learn...follow” God’s commands as written down in Scripture. In our ecological context, we too should learn all about our environment, understand how it functions, do everything to make it work the way God intended for it, and love it!

IV. He must consider himself a RESPONSIBLE SUBJECT.

The king was to “not consider himself better...and turn”. He must understand that he is not above the law himself. Lex Rex not Rex Lex. Likewise, every individual must abide by the rules in order for creation to function properly. One must never think, “those laws apply to everybody else - not to me”.

Bible believers should be the best of ecologists because they have a biblical mandate. The Bible gives us the right to use the earth’s resources for our pleasure and benefit but never to abuse or waste them. If we don’t take these matters seriously, resources will be depleted and the earth a worse place to live. (A good rule of thumb: If everybody did just as I do, would this be a better world?)

Big job? You bet! But God has given it to us. C.S. Lewis said about the coronation of Queen Elizabeth in 1953: “The pressing of that huge, heavy crown on that small, young head was a symbol of the situation of all men. God has called humanity to be His vice-regent and high priest on earth.”


New Testament: John 9

From the moment he received sight, he was embroiled in controversy. Because it took place on a Sabbath (Jn. 9:14), Jesus’ miracle of healing plunged him into conflict with the Pharisees. It even spilled over to his parents. They were called on the carpet for their son’s “sin” and, fearful of reprisals, they distanced themselves from their boy (Jn. 9:20-23). After all, they didn’t want to be kicked out of the synagogue.

Consider him for a moment. The process was rather messy. He had to grope his way to a very public place to wash the mud off his face. If anyone really could, he’d grown used to begging for his livelihood but now he could actually see the looks people cast his way. Or worse, the looks they wouldn’t give him, staring straight ahead or off to the unfocused side when they passed him on the street. He’d never felt like a whole person but now even his own parents didn’t want to be associated with him.

And the interrogations mounted. The many questions (Jn. 9:15, 15, 26) became increasingly harsh and accusatory. There was little attempt to conceal the desire for entrapment and self-incrimination. They needed someone to hold guilty for this outrage and Jesus Himself was always agonizingly beyond their reach. Their recriminations never seemed to bother Him.

Don’t you love the formerly blind man’s answers?! He starts with the perfect personal testimony that is still the most effective witness any man can possibly give:

• I don’t know all the fancy arguments but there’s one thing I know for sure. I used to be blind, but now I can see! (Jn. 9:25)

When they persist, even adding personal insults, he puts them on the spot with the very observation they should have been grappling with from the start:

• You can’t deny that a God-size miracle took place here. Why can’t you see (!) that God must be involved?

The irony was thick in the air. Here a formerly blind beggar was arguing with the religious authorities about spiritual sight. Be sure to notice his own progress in spiritual insight. He goes from seeing the Lord as...

1. “the man they call Jesus” (vs. 11), to...
2. “a prophet” (vs. 17), to...
3. one who could/should be followed by disciples (vs. 27), to...
4. One whom he worshiped (vs. 38).

THE LORD SPOKE (March 17)

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Deuteronomy 14-16

Do you root for the underdog? Do you always take sides with the down-trodden? Is your heart soft for those who have little in this world?

It should be. It should be because God’s heart is just that. There are many references in Scripture to caring and providing for the poor.

Give generously to him and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the LORD your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to. There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land. (Deut. 15:10-11)

In the previous chapter (Deut. 14:28-29), God had made provision to feed the needy. Earlier in this same chapter (Deut. 15:1-4), He also created a system to balance society more equitably, saying “there should be no poor among you”. In fact, little Israel was to be the lender and caretaker of many nations around them - borrowing or dependent on none.

That’s amazing and also true to modern history. It is also a true principle whereby you may live your own life. It applies to individuals equally well.

Are you generous? Are you “openhanded” towards those who have less? Remember, “the Lord loves a cheerful giver” (II Cor. 9:7).


New Testament: John 8

It’s quite a litany of condemning phrases. All the dirty linen was out on the line that day. Jesus had come to a showdown with the Pharisees and He brought ten railing accusations against them:

1. “you have no idea where I come from” (8:14)
2. “you have no idea where I am going” (8:14)
3. “you do not know me” (8:19)
4. “you do not know my Father” (8:19)
5. “where I go you cannot come” (vs. 21)
6. “you do not believe that I am the one I claim to be” (8:24)
7. “you have no room for my word” (8:37)
8. “you are unable to hear what I say” (8:43)
9. “you do not believe me” (8:45)
10. “you do not hear” (8:47)

Four times He challenges them to change their behavior:

1. “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples.” (Jn. 8:31)
2. “If you were Abraham’s children, then you would do the things Abraham did.” (Jn. 8:39)
3. “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God.” (8:42)
4. “If anyone keeps my word, he will never see death.” (Jn. 8:51)

The resounding conclusion of the manifesto comes with His declaration of deity. Let no man say He never claimed to be God. For His “blasphemy” they were ready to execute Him by stoning. What was the statement that did it? He claimed to be greater than Abraham. In fact, He equated Himself with the great “I AM” - the Ancient of Days.

Abraham rejoiced at the thought of seeing my day; he saw it and was glad.... Before Abraham was born, I am! (Jn. 8:56,58)

THE LORD SPOKE (March 16)

Daily Reflections from Scripture:

Old Testament: Deuteronomy 12-13

Critics say it’s evidence of the deuteronomist’s hand. When Moses talks about “the place the Lord your God will choose” (see Deut. 12:4,11,14,18,26, and many other places), they identify it as an addition by later editors trying to pad their case. The priests, according to these “scholars”, are just trying to prove that their religious system centered in Jerusalem had the authority of Moses behind it. In other words, this thing about the centrality of Jerusalem developed much later and the editors of Deuteronomy are practicing a little historical revision. They’re rewriting history to prove the validity of their system.

Not so! Many places in Scripture speak of God’s love and choice of Jerusalem:

• Psalm 48:2-3 - “...Mount Zion, the city of the Great King. God is in her...”
• Psalm 68:16 - “Why gaze in envy, O rugged mountains, at the mountain where God chooses to reign, where the LORD himself will dwell forever?” (speaking of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem)
• Psalm 76:2 - “His tent is in Salem, his dwelling place in Zion.”
• Psalm 87:2-3 - “the LORD loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob. Glorious things are said of you, O city of God.”
• Isaiah 2:2-3 - “In the last days the mountain of the LORD's temple will be established as chief among the mountains; it will be raised above the hills, and all nations will stream to it. Many peoples will come and say, ‘Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob. He will teach us his ways, so that we may walk in his paths.’ The law will go out from Zion, the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.”
• Isaiah 62:1 - “For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, for Jerusalem's sake I will not remain quiet, till her righteousness shines out like the dawn, her salvation like a blazing torch.
• Ezekiel 5:5 - "This is what the Sovereign LORD says: This is Jerusalem, which I have set in the center of the nations, with countries all around her.”
• Zechariah 2:5,8 - “‘And I myself will be a wall of fire around it,’ declares the LORD, ‘and I will be its glory within’. ...For whoever touches you touches the apple of his eye.

If you go with the “deuteronomistic history” idea of how the Pentateuch was composed, you’ll have to keep going through all the Torah, the Nevi’im (Prophets), and the Ketuvim (Writings) and do the same. You’ll end up with a mutilated Old Testament, a messed up theological system, and a muted Word from God.

Maybe that’s what they want. But not me!


New Testament: John 7

Did Jesus “want to become a public figure”? Jesus’ brothers seemed to think so, judging by the advice they gave Him (Jn. 7:2-4). But then, they did not believe in Him themselves (Jn. 7:5). He never gave any indication that His purpose was to become a public figure.

On many occasions He worked hard to avoid publicity. He struggled at times to get away from the crowds to spend some time with His disciples. In order to have any personal quiet time, He got up “very early in the morning, while it was still dark” to find a solitary place (Mk. 1:35) and occasionally He spent the whole night in solitary prayer.

He was aware that a time would come when He would be thrust into public attention but repeatedly He acknowledged that His time “had not yet come” (Jn. 2:4; 7:6; 7:8; c.f. 7:30 and Mat. 26:18). He was faithful to His calling but awaited the appropriate moment. There was no ambition to become a public figure.

The response of the people, leaders included, fell into three categories. When they heard His words and saw His works, some concluded that He was a LIAR. While some thought He was “a good man”, others said, “No, he deceives the people” so how could He be good? He’s a liar (Jn. 7:12-13).

Others thought He was demon-possessed (7:20), a raving LUNATIC. They attributed His powers to Beelzebub and refused to acknowledge His authority. Anyone who claims to be God must be plumb crazy.

But some recognized Him as LORD. The question, “Is He the Christ?” was already circulating (Jn. 7:26; c.f. 4:29). Some thought He was the Prophet long prophesied (Jn. 7:40) while others believed “He is the Christ” (Jn. 7:41). One who did so was Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews, and one who’d had a personal encounter with Jesus (Jn. 3). The religious club couldn’t stand that. They ridiculed anyone who voiced a positive opinion, threatened such “mob thinking” with a curse, and tried to shut up even honest questions (Jn. 7:45-52).

When you have to resort to such measures, doesn’t that tell you something? The options really are limited. Either He is a liar, a lunatic, or the Lord of all. Which is it for you?