Blended Readings

Wednesday, May 25, 2005

May 25 Readings

You can also check out all these Reading Plans Blogs to go through the Bible in a year from Back to the Bible Reading Lists:the Chronological Reading Plan blog; OT and NT Together blog; Historical Readings blog; Blended Readings blog and Beginning to End blog In addition, there is the Theophilus1 blog in the One Year Bible format and The Daily Bible in Chronological Order

Blended Reading Plan from Back to the Bible

Index to Blended Readings

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Check out the Link Page for the One Year Bible Readings. Three Years Bible Readings and the Back to the Bible Devotional Blogs

Try the Three Years in the Bible: Year 1 Law and History; Year 2 Poetry and Prophecy and Year 3 New Testament. You can start with any of the three years and finsh the Bible at a slower pace in three years

Today's reading 2 Kings 10-12; Matthew 13.31-58

Today's reading 2Kings 10-12
King James Version with Web Encyclopedia Links: 2Kings 10; 2Kings 11; 2Kings 12

2Kings 10
Ahab's family killed v. 1-17
Ministers of Baal killed v. 18-35

2 Kings 11
Athaliah and Joash
2Kings 11.1-29; 2Chronicles 22.10-23.21

2 King 12
Joash repairs the Temple, 2Kings 1-21; 2Chronicles 24.1-14, 23-27
Joash was a good king of Judah. he obeyed and followed the Lord. The high places, however were not removed.

Elisha
Arthur Pink - Gleanings From Elisha

Kings of Israel and Judah
Information on the Kings of Israel
Information on the Kings of Judah

Guzik on 2Kings 10
Guzik on 2Kings 11
Guzik on 2Kings 12

2 Kings 10, with Commentaries, verse by verse
2 Kings 11, with Commentaries, verse by verse
2 Kings 12, with Commentaries, verse by verse

Links to Commentaries and other References - Old Testament

Matthew 13, with Commentaries, verse by verse

Matthew 13

Matthew 13.31-58
The Parable of the Mustard Seed and the Yeast
Matthew 13.31-32; Mark 4.30-32
Matthew 13.31-33; Luke 13.18-21

The Parable of the Weeds Explained Matthew 13.36-43
The Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl Matthew 13.44-46
The Parable of the Net Matthew 13.47-52

A Prophet without Honor
Matthew 13.54-58; Mark 6.1-6

Guzik on Matthew
IVP Commentary on Matthew

Links to Commentaries and other References - Matthew

Jesus Saves
How to Become a Christian

Please send a comment if something spoke to you today from the passages, links or thoughts that I have shared with you.

Monday, May 23, 2005

May 24 Readings

Elisha
Arthur Pink - Gleanings From Elisha

Kings of Israel and Judah
Information on the Kings of Israel
Information on the Kings of Judah

Guzik on 2Kings 7
Guzik on 2Kings 8
Guzik on 2Kings 9

2 Kings 7, with Commentaries, verse by verse
2 Kings 8, with Commentaries, verse by verse
2 Kings 9, with Commentaries, verse by verse

Links to Commentaries and other References - Old Testament

Matthew 13, with Commentaries, verse by verse

Matthew 13

Matthew 13.1-30

The parable of the sower
Matthew 13.1-15; Mark 4.1-12; Luke 8.4-10
Matthew 13.16-17; Luke 10.23-24
Matthew 13.18-3; Mark 4.13-20; Luke 8.11-15

The parable of the weeds
Matthew 13.24-30

Guzik on Matthew
IVP Commentary on Matthew

Links to Commentaries and other References - Matthew

Jesus Saves
How to Become a Christian

This Posting is NOT a commentary of the passages read today but it is a devotional. Please send a comment if something spoke to you today from the passages, links or thoughts that I have shared with you.

Sunday, May 22, 2005

May 23 Readings

Famine in Samaria, 2kings 6.28

Elisha
Arthur Pink - Gleanings From Elisha

Kings of Israel and Judah
Information on the Kings of Israel
Information on the Kings of Judah

2 Kings 4, with Commentaries, verse by verse
2 Kings 5, with Commentaries, verse by verse
2 Kings 6, with Commentaries, verse by verse
Links to Commentaries and other References - Old Testament

Matthew 12, with Commentaries, verse by verse

Matthew 12

Matthew 12.24-50

Jesus and Beelzebub
Matthew 12.25-29; Mark 3.23-27; Luke 11.17-22

The Sign of Jonah
Matthew 12.29-42; Luke 11.29-32
Matthew 12.43-45; Luke 11.24-26

Jesus' mother and brothers
Matthew 12.46-50; Mark 3.31-35; Luke 8.19-21

Guzik on Matthew
IVP Commentary on Matthew

Links to Commentaries and other References - Matthew

Jesus Saves
How to Become a Christian

This Posting is NOT a commentary of the passages read today but it is a devotional. Please send a comment if something spoke to you today from the passages, links or thoughts that I have shared with you.

May 22 Readings

2Kings 3 This is an account of Moab rebelling against Israel

Kings of Israel and Judah
Information on the Kings of Israel
Information on the Kings of Judah

Guzik on 2Kings 1
Guzik on 2Kings 2
Guzik on 2Kings 3

2 Kings 1, with Commentaries, verse by verse
2 Kings 2, with Commentaries, verse by verse
2 Kings 3, with Commentaries, verse by verse

Links to Commentaries and other References - Old Testament

Matthew 12, with Commentaries, verse by verse

Matthew 11

Matthew 12.1-23

Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath
Matthew 12.1-8; Mark 2.23-28; Luke 6.1-5
Matthew 12.9-14; Mark 3.1-6; Luke 6.6-11

God's chosen servant
Matthew 12.15-21

Jesus and Beelzebub
Matthew 12.25-29; Mark 3.23-27; Luke 11.17-22

Guzik on Matthew
IVP Commentary on Matthew

Links to Commentaries and other References - Matthew

Jesus Saves
How to Become a Christian

This Posting is NOT a commentary of the passages read today but it is a devotional. Please send a comment if something spoke to you today from the passages, links or thoughts that I have shared with you.

Saturday, May 21, 2005

Figure - Ahab covets Naboth's vineyard

1 Kings 22.1-28; 2Chronicles 18.1-27 Ahab, king of Israel, Jehoshaphat met as allies against the king of Aram. Jehoshaphat wanted the counsel of God and asked Ahab if there was a prophet to seek the counsel of the Lord whether they should go to war against Romoth-gilead. Ahab had his prophets and they did not have the Spirit of God within them. Jehoshaphat asked if there was another prophet present. Ahab said that there was athe prophet Micaiah but he never prophesied any good (in Ahab’s favor). Jehoshaphat request Micaiah and he answered opposite to what the lying prophets told Ahab and Jehoshaphat. The truth was the Lord did not give Ramoth-Gilead.in the hands of Ahab and Jehoshaphat. Micaiah was put in prison for speaking the truth. How many of us would stand up for the truth and pay the consequences?
Ahab was killed by a random arrow, at Ramoth-Gilead (1Kings 22.29-36; 2Chronicles 18.28-34) even though he disguised himself. Ahab’s blood was licked up by dogs as the Lord had declared in 1Kings 21.19.

Jehoshaphat was the king of Judah (1Kings 22.41-50; 2Chronicles 31.21.1) during the reign of Ahab. He was a good king although he associated with Ahab. He walked in the ways of Asa, his father and did right in the eyes of the Lord. He did not remove the high places and the people offered sacrifices and burnt offerings there.

Ahaziah was the king of Israel (1Kings 22.51-53). He was the son of Ahab and did evil in the eyes of the Lord. He had Ahab and Jezebel as two perfect evil examples to follow.

Kings of Israel and Judah
Information on the Kings of Israel
Information on the Kings of Judah

Guzik on 1Kings 21
Guzik on 1Kings 22

1 Kings 21, with Commentaries, verse by verse
1 Kings 22, with Commentaries, verse by verse

Links to Commentaries and other References - Old Testament

Matthew 11 with Commentaries, verse by verse

Matthew 11

Matthew 11

Jesus and John the Baptist
Matthew 11.2-19; Luke 7.18-35

Woe to unrepentant cities
Matthew 11.21-23; Luke 10.13-15

Rest for the worry
Matthew 11.25-27; Luke 10.21,22

Guzik on Matthew
IVP Commentary on Matthew

Links to Commentaries and other References - Matthew

Jesus Saves
How to Become a Christian

This Posting is NOT a commentary of the passages read today but it is a devotional. Please send a comment if something spoke to you today from the passages, links or thoughts that I have shared with you.

Thursday, May 19, 2005

May 20 Readings

In 1 Kings 20 v. 1-12 Ben-Hadad invaded Samaria, In verses 13-34 Ahab defeated Ben-Hadad and in verse 35-43 a prophet condemns Ahab.

Kings of Israel and Judah
Information on the Kings of Israel
Information on the Kings of Judah

Guzik on 1Kings 19
Guzik on 1Kings 20

1 Kings 19, with Commentaries, verse by verse
1 Kings 20, with Commentaries, verse by verse

Links to Commentaries and other References - Old Testament

Matthew 10 with Commentaries, verse by verse

Matthew 10

Matthew 10.21-42

Jesus sends out the Twelve.
Matthew 10.19-22; Mark 13.11-13; Luke 21.12-17
Matthew 10.26-33; Luke 12.2-9
Matthew 10.34-35; Luke 12.51-53

Jesus spoke about opposition the disciples would face if they followed Him from their own families. He warned about persecution. He said that a student is not above jis master, nor a servant above his master. This is a warninig to us to count the cost on following Jesus. We are to acknowkledge Him before men for He will acknowledge us before the Father. Jesus said something astonishing: 'Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace on the earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword.'

May 19 Readings

1Kings 17
In verses (1-6) Elijah went to Ahab and told him that it would not reign nor dew in the next few years. The Lord preserved Elijah during this period of drought at the in the Kerith Ravine with water from the brook and bread and meat brought to him from ravens.
When the brook dried up Elijah was told to go to Zarephath, where he met a widow with barely enough for a meal for her and her family, at his request, gave him some of the cake in faith. There was food that miraculously and constantly appeared to keep the widow, her son and Elijah during this time of need. The widow’s son died and Elijah raise him from the dead. What can we learn from this? Even during this time of evil and famine, God knows how to take care of his own. He supplied all the needs for Elijah, and this widow and her son. Philippians 4.19 ‘And my God will meet your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus’

1Kings 18-20
In 1 Kings 18.1-15
In the third year of the severe famine, God told Elijah to show himself to Ahab. Elijah met Obadiah, and learnt that Obadiah had hidden on hundred prophets in caves and provided with food and water. Before you feel that you are the only one doing the Lord’s work, think again. When time is dark, you are not the only one alone fighting the good fight. He even thought he was the only one of the Lord’s prophet.
Elijah had challenge the prophets of Baal to a test! The god who would bring fire from heaven to completely consume a bull would win the contest. The prophets of Baal tried but their god failed. Elijah made it harder, he placed water to pour on the offering and wood. Well, God used a consuming fire from heaven on the bull! Elijah’s prayer was sincere and to the point. The people had to know that the Lord was GOD!!! The prophets of Baal were killed.
Elijah told his servant to look towards the sea, after seven attempts, he saw a cloud the size of a man’s rising from the sea. From this cloud, rain came and ended the severe drought. Elijah had supernatural power and ran ahead of Ahab in his chariot in the rain from Carmel to Jezreel.

1 Kings 16, with Commentaries, verse by verse
1 Kings 17, with Commentaries, verse by verse
1 Kings 18, with Commentaries, verse by verse

Guzik on 1Kings 16
Guzik on 1Kings 17
Guzik on 1Kings 18

Links to Commentaries and other References - Old Testament

Matthew 10 with Commentaries, verse by verse

Matthew 10

Jesus sends out the Twelve.

Matthew 10.2-4; Mark 3.16-19; Luke 6.14-16; Acts 1.13
Matthew 10.9-15; Mark 6.8-11; Luke 9.3-5; 10.4-12
Matthew 10.19-22; Mark 13.11-13; Luke 21.12-17

These Twelve were from various backgrounds and personalities. Jesus did not want men who thought and acted similarly. He wanted diversity and this was a good leader. He did not want people to follow Him blindly. The mission that he sent them on was very specific for them and may not be applicalbe to us. The Great Commission in Mattew 28 applies to us rather than the mission that Jesus sent out the Twelve to accomplish.

Tuesday, May 17, 2005

May 18 Readings

You can also check out all these Reading Plans Blogs to go through the Bible in a year from Back to the Bible Reading Lists:the Chronological Reading Plan blog; OT and NT Together blog; Historical Readings blog; Blended Readings blog and Beginning to End blog In addition, there is the Theophilus1 blog in the One Year Bible format and The Daily Bible in Chronological Order

Blended Reading Plan from Back to the Bible

Index to Blended Readings

Today's reading 1Kings 14-15; Matthew 9.18-38
King James Version with Web Encyclopedia Links: 1Kings 14; >1Kings 15

1Kings 14
The Lord told Ahijah that Jeroboam’s wife would come to see him and asked him what would happen to Jeroboam’s son. God told Ahiajah to say that the every last male in Israel, slave or free. Disaster will come on the family of Jeroboam, because they did not obey the Lord like David. Ahijah told Jeroboam’s wife that her son would be the only one in the house of Jeroboam who would be buried, because he was the only one in whom God saw some good. When Jeroboam’s wife went home the boy died and was buried.

Under Rehoboam (1Kings 14.21, 25-31; 2Chronicles 12.9-16), Judah did evil in the eyes of the Lord, they set up high places, sacred stones and asherah poles. In the fifth year of Jeroboam’s reign Shisak, king of Egypt attacked Jerusalem, plundered the treasures of the temple of the Lord and the royal palace.
Within one generation from worshiping at Solomon’s Temple to now worshiping at high places, the spiritual life of Israel and Judah had spiraled downwards.

1Kings 15
Abijah of Judah was an evil king (1Kings 15.1-2, 6-8; 2Chronicles 13.1-2, 22-14.1). The only good thing in Abijah;s life was that he had Asa as a son/

Asa King of Judah (1Kings 15.9-22; 2Chronicles 14.2-3; 15.16-16.6) and (1Kings 15.23-24; 2Chronicles 16.11-17.1) was a good king.he expelled the male shrine prostitutes from the land and got rid of all the idols. He even got rid of the Asherah pole that his grandmother, Maachah made. He was fully committed to the Lord, although he did not remove the high places..

Nadab, (1Kings 15.25-31) King of Israel was an evil king, following in the way of idolatry of his father Jeroboam. Baasha killed Nadab and also ended killing all of Jeroboam’s family.

Baasha, King of Israel (1Kings 15.33-16.7) became king of Israel and was an evil king following the ways of Jeroboam.. Jehu prophesied that Baasha and his family would be killed.. Baasha’s house would be desolate like Jeroboam, He had a son Elah who succeeded him as king.

1 Kings 14, with Commentaries, verse by verse
1 Kings 15, with Commentaries, verse by verse

Guzik on 1Kings 14
Guzik on 1Kings 15

Links to Commentaries and other References - Old Testament

Matthew 9 with Commentaries, verse by verse

Matthew 9
A Dead girl and a sick woman Matthew 9.18-26; Mark 5.22-43; Luke 8.41-56
Jesus heals the Blind and Mute v. 27-34
The workers are few v. 35-38

Guzik on Matthew
IVP Commentary on Matthew

Links to Commentaries and other References - Matthew

Jesus Saves
How to Become a Christian

This Posting is NOT a commentary of the passages read today but it is a devotional. Please send a comment if something spoke to you today from the passages, links or thoughts that I have shared with you.

May 17 Readings

You can also check out all these Reading Plans Blogs to go through the Bible in a year from Back to the Bible Reading Lists:the Chronological Reading Plan blog; OT and NT Together blog; Historical Readings blog; Blended Readings blog and Beginning to End blog In addition, there is the Theophilus1 blog in the One Year Bible format and The Daily Bible in Chronological Order

Blended Reading Plan from Back to the Bible

Index to Blended Readings

Today's reading 1Kings 12-13; Matthew 9.1-17
King James Version with Web Encyclopedia Links: 1Kings 12; 1Kings 13

1Kings 12.1-24 2Chronicles 10.1-11.4
After Solomon’s death, the people of Israel met with Rehoboam and complained that Solomon had placed a heavy yoke of labor on them> They asked him lessen the yoke of labor on them, then they would serve him. He refused to listen to the elders but instead listen to his peers, the young men and decided that he was going to give a heavier yoke on the people of Israel. When Rehoboam met with Jeroboam and the people of Israel he told them that he would increase the yoke of labor on them. He did not listen to the people for this decision he made was to fulfill the word the Lord spoke to Jeroboam through Ahijah the prophet. The people rebelled and made Jeroboam king over all Israel except for Benjamin and . Judah which followed Rehoboam.
Jeroboam did not want the people to go to Jerusalem to worship fearing they would give allegiance to Rehoboam, In Bethel, Jeroboam made two golden calves and told Israel that these were their gods.. Like Aaron (Exodus 32.4-5), Jeroboam tried to combine the worship of pagan calf statutes with the worship of God.

1Kings 13
During this dark times, a man of God from Judah came to Bethel and cried out against the altar as Jeroboam was offering sacrifices at the altar. Jeroboam’s hand withered. Jeroboam asked him to interceded to God on his behalf. The man of God did and Jeroboam was healed. Jeroboam offered him a gift and a meal at his house but the man of God refused. A certain old prophet came to the man of God and offered him hospitality but the man of God refused. The old man lied and said an angel told him to give the man of God food and water. The man of God accepted. The word of God came to the old man and he told the man of God that since he disobeyed. God, he would die. On the way home a lion met the man of God and kill him. The old man buried the man of God in his own tomb. Jeroboam did not change his evil ways.

In addition, the man of God prophesied that a son named Josiah will be born to the house of David (verse 2) and he will sacrifice priests on the high places who now make offerings on the altar and human bones will be burnt there. This is significant because King Josiah some 300 years later did sacrifice the priests of the high places on the altar (2Kings 23.15-20).

Guzik on 1Kings 12
Guzik on 1Kings 13

1 Kings 12, with Commentaries, verse by verse
1 Kings 13, with Commentaries, verse by verse

Links to Commentaries and other References - Old Testament

Matthew 9 with Commentaries, verse by verse

Matthew 9

Jesus heals a paralytic Matthew 9.2-8; Mark 2.3-12; Luke 5.18-26
The Calling of Matthew: Matthew 9.9-13; Mark 2.14-17; Luke 5.27-32
Jesus Questioned about Fasting Matthew 9.14-17; Mark 2.18-22; Luke 5.33-39

Guzik on Matthew
IVP Commentary on Matthew

Links to Commentaries and other References - Matthew

Jesus Saves
How to Become a Christian

This Posting is NOT a commentary of the passages read today but it is a devotional. Please send a comment if something spoke to you today from the passages, links or thoughts that I have shared with you.

Monday, May 16, 2005

May 16 Readings

In 1Kings 11.1-13, Solomon had many wives, especially foreign women which led to his downfall. Verse 3 states He had seven hundred wives of royal birth and three hundred concubines, and his wives led him astray.

Because Solomon did not follow the Lord, because his wives led him astray, God raised up against Solomon an adversary, Hadad the Edomite, Razon son of the Eliada. Finally he raised up Jeroboam who rebelled against Solomon. Ahijah the prophet spoke with Jeroboam, and Abijah took hold of the new cloak, he had and tore it into twelve pieces, He told Jeroboam to take ten pieces, because God was going to take ten tribes from Solomon and give it to Jeroboam. God will give one tribe, Judah to Solomon and the city of Jerusalem, ensuring that the Messiah, Jesus would come from Judah. God had kept the Davidic covenant but Solomon did not keep keep the covenant.

In 1Kings 11.41-43; 2Chronicles 9.29-31, Solomon reigned for forty years over all Israel and then he rested with his fathers and was buried in the city of David..

Guzik on 1Kings 10
Guzik on 1Kings 11

1 Kings 10, with Commentaries, verse by verse
1 Kings 11, with Commentaries, verse by verse

Links to Commentaries and other References - Old Testament

Matthew 8 with Commentaries, verse by verse

Matthew 8

The Cost of Following Jesus: Matthew 8.19-22; Luke 9.57-60
Jesus Calms the Storm Matthew 8.23-27; Mark 4.36-41; Luke 8.22-25
The Healing of Two-Demon-possessed Men Matthew 8.28-34; Mark 5.1-7; Luke 8.26-37

Guzik on Matthew
IVP Commentary on Matthew

Links to Commentaries and other References - Matthew

Jesus Saves
How to Become a Christian

This Posting is NOT a commentary of the passages read today but it is a devotional. Please send a comment if something spoke to you today from the passages, links or thoughts that I have shared with you.

Sunday, May 15, 2005

May 15 Readings

In 1 Kings 9 the Lord appeared to Solomon (1Kings 9.1-19; 2Chronicles 7.11-22) a second time. This was a confirmation of the Davidic Covenant that God made with David that IF David and his descendants are obedient and trust God there would always be a descendant of David on the throne of David. God had warned if the Solomon or his descendants were disobedient, Israel would become a byword, an object of ridicuke among all peoples, and the peoples (Gentiles) would mock and scoff at the Israelites and the Temple.
In 1Kings 9.10-28; 2Chronicles 8.1-18, Solomon had used forced labors to build the Lord's temple, his palace, the supporting terraces, the walls of Jerusalem and Hazor, Megiddo and Gezer. Solomon had other building projects including building a palace for one of his wives, Pharaoh's daughter. He had also built ships.

Guzik on 1Kings 8
Guzik on 1Kings 9

1 Kings 8, with Commentaries, verse by verse
1 Kings 9, with Commentaries, verse by verse

Links to Commentaries and other References - Old Testament

Matthew 8 with Commentaries, verse by verse

Matthew 7

In Matthew 8.2-4; Mark 1.40-44; Luke 5.12-14, Jesus healed the man with leprosy.

In Matthe 8.5-13; Luke 7.1-10, Jesus healed the servant of a centurion. He was amazed by the faith of the centurion.

In Matthew 8.14-16; Mark 1.29-34; Luke 4.38-41; Jesus heals many people.

Guzik on Matthew
IVP Commentary on Matthew

Links to Commentaries and other References - Matthew

Jesus Saves
How to Become a Christian

This Posting is NOT a commentary of the passages read today but it is a devotional. Please send a comment if something spoke to you today from the passages, links or thoughts that I have shared with you.

Saturday, May 14, 2005

May 14 Readings

Solomon's Temple

The Temple must be rebuilt in Israel as a part of the events in the Last Days!!
Rebuilding Temple Resources

It took Solomon seven years to build the Temple.

1Kings 6 Solomon built his palace in thirteen years!! A descriotion is in the chapter 1Kings 7.1-12. The Temple's furnishing is described in elaborate detils in 1Kings 7.23-26; 2Chronicles 4.2-3 and 1kings 38-51; 2Chronicles 4.6,10-5.1.

Guzik on 1Kings 6
Guzik on 1Kings 7

1 Kings 6, with Commentaries, verse by verse
1 Kings 7, with Commentaries, verse by verse

Links to Commentaries and other References - Old Testament

Matthew 7 with Commentaries, verse by verse

Matthew 7

Matthew 7.3-5; Luke 6.41-42
Jesus speak about judging others

Ask, seek and knock Matthew 7.7-11; Luke 11.9-13

The narrow and straight gates Matthew 7.13-14

A tree and its fruit Matthew 7.15-23

The wise and foolish builders Matthew 7.24-27; Luke 6.47-50

Guzik on Matthew
IVP Commentary on Matthew

Links to Commentaries and other References - Matthew

Jesus Saves
How to Become a Christian

This Posting is NOT a commentary of the passages read today but it is a devotional. Please send a comment if something spoke to you today from the passages, links or thoughts that I have shared with you.

Friday, May 13, 2005

May 13 Readings

Solomon Wise ruling

1Kings 4
A description of Solomon's officials and governers (v. 1-19), his dsily dupplies snd his wealth (v.20-34) and his wisdom (v. 29-34 Solomon received wisdom from Gid and he wrote the book of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, He was an expert on plant lifem he taught about animals, reptiles and birds.

1Kings 5 1Kings 5 Solomon prepared to build the Temple for God. He signed a treaty with Hiram of Tyre. Hiram was to provide cedar and pine logs in exchange Solomon gave Hiram wheat and pressed olive oil. Solomon had many laborers for the building of the Temple.

Guzik on 1Kings 3
Guzik on 1Kings 4
Guzik on 1Kings 5

1 Kings 3, with Commentaries, verse by verse
1 Kings 4, with Commentaries, verse by verse
1 Kings 5, with Commentaries, verse by verse

Links to Commentaries and other References - Old Testament

Matthew 6 with Commentaries, verse by verse

Matthew 6

Matthew 6.19-34; Luke 12.22-31
We are told by Jesus not to worry about anything whether it is what we eat, drink,or wear. We just have to look around! God takes care of the birds and the animals, flowers abd planrs in nature, how much more, He will take care of us. We just have do do one thing: 'But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well.' Matthew 6.33 (NIV)

Wednesday, May 11, 2005

May 12 Readings

Solomon became King 1Kings 1.39

1Kings 2
David gave Solomon specific instructions to Solomon before he died. The first thing he told Solomon was to follow the Lord, walk in His ways (v.2-4) He reminded Solomon of the covenant that God mad with him which would apply to the descendants of David.
He also told Solomon to deal with Joab and Shimei, and to show kindness to the sons of Barzillai. After this David died and was buried in the City of David.

Solomon made sure that his monarchy was secured. He dealt with his step-brother Adonijah by executing him, he sent Abiathar back to his fields in Anathoth, he ordered the execution of Joab and put Shimei under house arrest on the condition that if Shimei stayed in the house his life was spared. Shimei's slaves ran off three years later and he left his house to hget them back violating the house arrest. Solomon also ordered his execution.

All of this historical events showed us that God was in the background in control of events to make sure that the Messiah would come from the Davidic lineage.

Guzik on 1Kings 1
Guzik on 1Kings 2

1 Kings 1, with Commentaries, verse by verse
1 Kings 2, with Commentaries, verse by verse

Arthur Pink-The Life of David

Links to Commentaries and other References - Old Testament

Matthew 6 with Commentaries, verse by verse

Matthew 6.1-18
Jesus when you give to the needy do it so that no one know what you are doing. It is between you and God.

The Disciples' Prayer (Matthew 6.9-13; Luke 11.2-4). I call it the disciples' prayer because the Lord's prayer was mentioned in John 17 when Jesus was in the Garden of Gethsemane. In a similar fashion when we pray it is between us and God, not for men to see our piety. We should come to God first, worshipping Him: Hallowed be your name before we ask Him for our needs. We must submit to Him : Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. When we are willing to worship Him and submit to His will then we can ask him for our needs NOT our wants. We must confess our sins to Him and ask for forgiveness just as we are willing to forgive those who wrong us. We should asked to be delivered from the evil one.

When we fast, the only person who should know should be God only and not our fellow man. In that way, we are doing it for the right reasons.

May 11 Readings

Tuesday, May 10, 2005

May 10 Readings

Try the Three Years in the Bible: Year 1 Law and History; Year 2 Poetry and Prophecy and Year 3 New Testament. You can start with any of the three years and finsh the Bible at a slower pace in three years

You can also check out all these Reading Plans Blogs to go through the Bible in a year from Back to the Bible Reading Lists:the Chronological Reading Plan blog; OT and NT Together blog; Historical Readings blog; Blended Readings blog and Beginning to End blog In addition, there is the Theophilus1 blog in the One Year Bible format and The Daily Bible in Chronological Order

Blended Reading Plan from Back to the Bible

Index to Blended Readings

Today's Readings Numbers 35-36; Matthew 5:1-26

King James Version with Web Encyclopedia links: Numbers 35; Numbers 36; Matthew 5

In Num 35.1-5, the tribes of Israel had land assigned to them as an inheritance. The Levites were to get towns to live in from the tribes (of the land they would possess). They were to get pasturelands around the towns and have towns to live in. God does not forget those who are serving him. He provide for them and their family. Let us not be neglectful in supporting our churches and missionaries.

In Numbers 35, murder is a very serious matter to God, especially when the life of the body is in the blood.(Lev 17.11), and the blood has been shed. The tragedy is you cannot undo murder, you cannot bring this person back alive.

Six of the towns that the Israelites gave to the Levites (35.6-34) were to be Cities of Refuge. These were cities where refuge will be given to those who kill someone accidentally. God was concerned that an accused get a fair trial. If an accused murdered intentionally (v. 16-21) then they will not be allowed in the cities of refuge and shall be put to death. The person who killed accidentally would be allowed in the city of refuge. However if the person leaves the city of refuge, the avenger of the blood may kill the accused without being guilty of murder. Some other laws elaborated on ransom (31-32) and murder.

It is interesting how God views pollution! Pollution had to do with bloodshed and not hazardous waste!! Atonement cannot be made for the land on which the blood was shed, except for the blood if the one who shed it. The land has to be atoned for or else it would be polluted.
Numbers 36 discusses the issue of Zelophedad's daughters. The Lord had instructed Moses that women may inherit their father's land. New issues came up. What happen if the daughters marry another tribe. The decision was that the daughters must be married in the same tribe so that the family allotment passes from one tribe to another.

Numbers 35 with Commentaries, verse by verse
Numbers 36 with Commentaries, verse by verse

Matthew 5 with Commentaries, verse by verse
Jesus spoke about the Beatitudes (Matthew 5.4-12; Luke 6.20-23) Note the types of people that we need to be and if we achieve to be that type of person, then we will be blessed (Greek word, makarios which means blessed and is NOT happiness which cannot be affected by outward circumstance. This is similar to joy.
We are to be SALT and LIGHT v. 13-16. Jesus's teaching of the Sermon on the Mount is IMPOSSIBLE for any of us to do on our own. We need supernatural power to achieve what he taught.
He said that He came to fulfill the Law and the Prophets. This is true, that all the prophecies and types are fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
The Ten Commandments are based on the actions done against God and man when a sin is commited. Jesus took this one step further he looked at the intent or the motive which when fully developed lead into sin. For example when he spoke about being angry with your brother, Jesus is looking at the intent. The anger which is conceived will lead finally to murder! See James 1.13-15
Guzik on Matthew
IVP Commentary on Matthew

Links to Commentaries and other References - Matthew

Bible Study Tools
Jesus Saves
How to Become a Christian

This Posting is NOT a commentary of the passages read today but it is a devotional. Please send a comment if something spoke to you today from the passages, links or thoughts that I have shared with you.

Sunday, May 08, 2005

May 9 Readings

Try the Three Years in the Bible: Year 1 Law and History; Year 2 Poetry and Prophecy and Year 3 New Testament. You can start with any of the three years and finsh the Bible at a slower pace in three years

You can also check out all these Reading Plans Blogs to go through the Bible in a year from Back to the Bible Reading Lists:the Chronological Reading Plan blog; OT and NT Together blog; Historical Readings blog; Blended Readings blog and Beginning to End blog In addition, there is the Theophilus1 blog in the One Year Bible format and The Daily Bible in Chronological Order

Blended Reading Plan from Back to the Bible

Index to Blended Readings

Today's Readings Numbers 32-34; Matthew 4

King James Version with Web Encyclopedia links: Numbers 32; Numbers 33; Numbers 34; Matthew 4

In Numbers 32 the passage had a discussion on the Transjordan Tribes. Just to give you some background, The tribes of Reuben and Simeon had very large herds and flocks and had used Jazer and Gilead for grazing. These places are east of the Jordan River. Link to map. The leaders of Reuben and Gad came and had asked Moses and the leaders if they could get these lands from God. Moses was upset and reminded them how their fathers had disobeyed God except for Joshua and Caleb. He accused them of thinking only of themselves and not thinking about the well being of the people of Israel. The leaders of Reuben and Gad assured Moses that they would help to conquer the Promise Land. They would even lead the Israelites in battle. Moses gave the condition that if the tribes of Gad and Reuben cross the Jordan River and engaged in battle, after the campaign was over, the tribes of Gad, Reuben and the half-tribe of Mannaseh would receive this region, which is known in the Bible as the territory of the Trans-Jordan Tribes. What can we learn here? It is true that the tribes Gad and Reuben were looking out for themselves but they should be commended for keeping their word. Similarly, we should keep our word as well.

In Numbers 33.1-49, Moses spoke about the wilderness journey from Rameses to to the plain of Moab. A picture is worth a thousand words, so here is a link of the journey they took.
In v.50-56, God commanded Moses to tell the Israelites when they cross the Jordan, to drive out the inhabitants, they must destroy all the carved images and idols. They were to take possession of the land and settle in it. The spiritual application is that the Christian life is a spiritual warfare. We are to drive out the idols in our lives, remove the stronghold of lust and greed and any sins that trips us up. We have God the warrior on our side, Jesus as our High Priest and the Holy Spirit to convicts us of our sins.

In Numbers 34, there is a detail discussion of the boundaries of Canaan, this is better visualized with maps and some links Map of Canaan
More on Canaan
Here is a map of the twelve tribes in Canaan.

Moses told the Israelites that the land was assigned by lot as an inheritance to nine and a half tribes because the tribes of Gad and Reuben and a half tribe if Manasseh had already received their inheritance. (Num 32). Ten men (including Caleb) were to assigned the inheritance to the Israelites in Canaan. (Num 34.19-29)

Numbers 32 with Commentaries, verse by verse

Numbers 33 with Commentaries, verse by verse
Numbers 34 with Commentaries, verse by verse

Matthew 4 with Commentaries, verse by verse

Links to Commentaries and other References - Matthew

Jesus Saves
How to Become a Christian

Please send a comment if something spoke to you today from the passages, links or thoughts that I have shared with you.