40 Day Overview of the Bible

March 15 - Genesis 1-2 — The Creation Account

As you read the creation account, notice what isn’t here.

Weakness. God simply speaks and galaxies to grasshoppers come into existence. Uncertainty. God knew what he wanted to make and he did it. Competition. There are no other gods with whom the one, true God must compete. Evil. There is only goodness in God’s creation. Chaos. There is simplicity and purpose in God’s work and world. Discord. God made human beings the high point of his creation, and then commanded them to fill the earth (reproduce), and subdue the earth (make use of the earth’s resources in good ways).

Reflect:

What do we learn about God from these two chapters? What does his creation tell us about him?
One way we learn about God is by looking at creation. Do you do that? Do you think about God as you study biology or human anatomy or simply walk through your yard?
The Fall (sin) changes everything God created. Does the command to subdue the earth still apply?
We can consider the Garden of Eden to be God’s first temple, a place where people could meet God, and he could meet them. As beautiful as the Garden must have been, his plan progressed, and now he has made you his temple (1 Cor. 3:16-17). If God called his creation ‘very good,’ does he think the same about you? (Yes! Eph. 1:3-10)

March 16 - Genesis 3-4 — The Fall of Man

Just as Genesis 1 and 2 tell of God’s good creation, Genesis 3 and 4 tell us what went wrong. They answer the questions: Why isn’t it good anymore? Why are there killer viruses and cancer? Why destructive earthquakes and accidents? We witness the serpent’s deception of Eve, then she and Adam sin against God by eating the only fruit that was forbidden in the entire Garden. Notice the serpent’s lie; he tells Eve that God is holding back, in essence he says that God is not good, yet we see God’s goodness displayed in Genesis 1 and 2.

Adam and Eve “fall” from their glorious state of a perfect relationship with God, with each other, with creation, and with themselves. These four relationships are broken. Life has limits. Slavery (to sin) and death enter the world.

Is sin humanity’s biggest problem? Is there a better explanation for human ills?
Sin has consequences. Some are immediate, others may be long term and harder to see at first. What are the results of the Fall in these chapters?
What glimpses of hope are scattered amongst the curses as a result of the fall? (Hint: see 3:15 and 3:21)

March 17 - Genesis 6, 8, 11:1-9 — The Flood and Tower of Babel

Genesis 4-11 shows that sin is passed to every human being. No one is immune. Social distancing can’t stop it, surgery can’t remove, washing can’t cleanse it. We are infected by a disease of disobedience to God. It’s in the heart of human beings and shows up in our thoughts, words, actions, and attitudes. This is the power of sin over which we are powerless on our own. Our sins result in a penalty, and therefore God’s punishment. We will see sin on every page of Scripture.

Sin is the inclination of the human heart away from God and his ways, and toward one’s self, family, and/or tribe. Sins are the result of our sinful nature. We sin in thought, word, action, or attitude. (In the New Testament, Paul often refers to our sinful nature, as the “flesh”.)

Again, sin is the power over each person and sins result in a penalty. God’s punishment is the just response to our sins.

List the sins you see in these chapters.
What is God’s response to sin?
Is there any hope in these chapters? Does anything in them point to our hope in Jesus?

March 18 - Genesis 15, 17 — God’s Covenant with Abraham

Notice who initiates the saving or blessing. It isn’t Abraham. God chooses Abram and his barren wife to be the vessels through which he will bless, and eventually free the world, of sin. These chapters remind us that God is alive and active in his creation. Here, he takes the sin-ravaged world and begins his long, slow (from our perspective), march to Calvary.

This covenant with Abraham is considered a one-sided covenant because only one member makes promises. Who makes promises to whom?
What does this action of God say about his character?
One aspect of salvation makes a surprising appearance in Genesis 15. What does God give to Abraham when the latter trusts God?
The Apostle Paul calls Abraham the father of Christians (Gal. 3:1-9). Why?

March 19 - Genesis 18-19:29 — Sodom and Gomorrah

Sodom and Gomorrah were evil places. They promoted evil deeds as good, and as a way of life. But these chapters are not primarily about Sodom and Gomorrah. Like all of Scripture, the main character is God.

When we see “LORD” in all caps, it means ‘Yahweh’. The great ‘I AM’ shows up in human form, along with two other men, to offer grace and justice. Abraham and Sarah, who “were already very old, and Sarah was past the age of childbearing” receive grace. God sits for a meal with Abraham, then promises them a child in one year. They doubt, but God is faithful. Their doubt doesn’t stop God. But God is on his way to Sodom. Their evil deeds have gone up to him, now he’s coming down to them. God does not leave sin unpunished. Yet the righteous in the city have an advocate. Abraham pleads with God, that he would spare the righteous, and God agrees to do so.

Identify the ways this passage reveals the personal nature of God. Do you see him as personal?
What do we see about God’s knowledge in these chapters?
Abraham operates like a priest, interceding for the righteous in Sodom. There is an even better intercessor now, pleading for the sons and daughters of God. Read Hebrews 7:23-28 and give thanks.

March 20 - Genesis 22 — Deliverance of Isaac

Abraham’s faith is tested in a dreadful way: Offer Isaac as a burnt offering to God.

Abraham shows his trust in the God who miraculously provided Isaac. If God gives, he can take away, must have been Abraham’s thought. Throughout the Old Testament we see pictures of Jesus. This is one of the clearest. A day would come when God would bring his own son to the “alter,” and the son would climb up willingly. Our heavenly Father offered his own son as the solution to the world’s slavery to sin.

How has God tested your faith? (Remember, God never tempts us to evil, but he does test. He removes things from our lives and takes us through challenging seasons to build trust. See James 1:2-4 and 1:12-13.)
With the picture of this passage in your heart and mind, consider the extent to which God goes to make sinners like us clean temples for his presence and adopted members of his family.

March 21 - Exodus 3-4 — God Calls Moses

The historical setting has changed. Abraham’s family has grown, they moved to Egypt from the Promised Land because of a famine. They were 70 people when they moved. Now they “multiplied and grew exceedingly strong, so that the land was filled with them” (Exod. 1:7). God was fulfilling his promise to make Abraham’s descendants a great nation. Yet the great nation is enslaved, and God has heard their cry. Moses will be their deliverer.

God heard the cries of his people. Does he hear your prayers? How has he responded more quickly, or slowly, than you wanted or expected?
Moses is reluctant. He sees all his own shortcomings rather than trusting God to do what he promises. Can you relate? How have you focused on your weaknesses when God was asking you to trust him? How can you trust God more in his promise to use you to build up members of our church?
God sent Moses to rescue Israel from slavery. God sent Jesus to rescue his people from the penalty and power of sin. Praise God for his great gift of Jesus and the forgiveness and power you have in him.

March 22 - Exodus 20 — The Ten Commandments

The exodus out of Egypt was the greatest salvation event of the Old Testament. It’s been three months since the exodus and the Israelites are in the wilderness between Egypt and the Promised Land. Here, God establishes a covenant with Israel. He will be their God, and they will be his people... IF they obey the commands he gives them. The Ten Commandments, today’s reading, summarize the hundreds of laws, statues, and commands God gave to his people.

On Day 3 of this devotional, we saw that sin is now the ruling power of the human heart. Sin turns people away from God and toward themselves. There is no hope for sinful humanity apart from God’s mercy. Disobedience deserves punishment from a just God. In the laws, God provides a way for his people to atone for, or cover, their sins. He gives commands on tablets of stone. He has yet to provide power to change the human heart.

Without looking back at the passage, how many of the Ten Commandments can you name?
Are the Ten Commandments for Christians? (Hint, strictly speaking, no. They form the covenant God made with Israel, often called the Mosaic Covenant. That covenant became obsolete when Jesus instituted the New Covenant. The New Testament book of Hebrews highlights how the New Covenant has replaced and is better than the Old, or Mosaic, Covenant.)
The Ten Commandments written on stone tablets do not solve the Israelites problem of sin, nor anyone else’s for that matter. So why did God give these laws? (Hint, Paul explains why in his letter to the Galatians 3:25. He says that the Law, the Mosaic Covenant was given as a “tutor/schoolmaster/guardian” so that the Jews would see their need for salvation by faith.)
The Holy Spirit is one of the glorious gifts of the New Covenant. He is our power over our sinful nature. Do you live by his power, or, do you try to obey God’s commands by your own strength? Not sure? Talk with a friend, small group leader, or pastor about it.

March 23 - Joshua 1, 24 — Conquering the Promised Land

The book of Joshua jumps ahead about 40 years from yesterday’s reading, but let’s review the important parts before we move on. God established his covenant with the Israelites; he gave them laws to obey. IF they obeyed, they would find prosperity. IF they disobeyed, they would meet disaster. That’s why Israel's new leader, Joshua, is told to meditate day and night on the Book of the Law (the laws given in Exodus and Leviticus, starting with the Ten Commandments). If Joshua does this and obeys the laws, he will make his way prosperous. That’s the promise of the Mosaic Covenant.

The last chapter takes us to a gathering of the Israelites. They are in the Promised Land and that land has been divided up and given to each of the tribes of Israel. God upholds his promise to Abraham; Israel has conquered the people who lived there and have moved into their cities and homes. Israel gathered to renew the Mosaic Covenant. Joshua recites all the good God has done for them. He calls the people to obey God and worship no other gods. The people agree to do so.

Why is Joshua skeptical when the Israelites tell him they will obey the Lord?
God needs to remind Joshua to be “strong and courageous”. Put another way, Joshua needed to live by faith, not by sight. That’s true for us too. How can you live by faith in God and not by sight (e.g. coronavirus, the economy, your job, quarantine)?
Do we get prosperity by obeying God’s commands? (Hint: No. We do not live under the Mosaic Covenant. We live under a better one. Because of Jesus’ obedience, we get the Holy Spirit now and the guarantee of eternal life in the age to come!)

March 24 - 1 Samuel 16-17 — David and Goliath

We move forward 400 years from Joshua to about 1000 BC. Despite the march of time, a common thread runs through Joshua and today’s passage. Trust in God leads to victory, but the human heart tends to look at human strength. The prophet Samuel thinks God will anoint the tall and strong as the next king of Israel. God has other plans, because God looks at the heart (16:6-7). God will be the strength of Israel, if they trust him.

The Philistines, a people opposed to Israel and the one true God, have a warrior who stands about nine feet tall. Just like Joshua needed to trust God, and be strong and courageous when he saw the enemy, now the army of Israel must do the same. But they don’t. They see Goliath and are afraid.

Samuel looked at the outward appearance of Jesse’s sons. In what ways do we do the same today? Why?
What was the most significant way in which David was different from his fellow Israelites (see 1 Sam. 16:13)?
David is a good example of a “Christ figure” in the Old Testament. How is Jesus a “new and better” David? Can you use David and Goliath to explain the gospel?
David was the greatest king of Israel, because he trusted God and defeated many enemies. Take a moment to thank God for sending the true king of Israel to defeat our greatest enemy.

March 25 - 1 Kings 3, 8:1-9:9 — King Solomon’s Wisdom and the Temple

“When you come to the land that the Lord your God is giving you, and you possess it and dwell in it and then say, ‘I will set a king over me, like all the nations that are around me,’ you may indeed set a king over you whom the Lord your God will choose….[the king] shall not acquire many wives for himself, lest his heart turn away, nor shall he acquire for himself excessive silver and gold.” -- Deuteronomy 17:14-17

Regardless of what one accomplishes in this life, the most important thing is their faith and subsequent obedience to God. David was a warrior poet, and although he sinned against God, he repented and sought God and his ways. Solomon, one of David’s sons, was a philosopher king. He asked for wisdom from God, and God gave it to him. Israel enjoyed peace and prosperity during his reign. Solomon could govern Israel, but he couldn’t govern himself.

These chapters will show the highlights of Solomon’s reign, especially his prayer when dedicating the temple for the one true God in Jerusalem. His theology is solid. Unfortunately, his faith and obedience was not as solid. He disobeyed the Lord, acquiring many wives, gathering great riches, and worshipping other gods. This is a high point in Israel. It is also the beginning of the end of Israel.

Solomon built a glorious temple for God. It would have been wonderful to behold. But it was only a shadow of the better temple to come. In what ways does Solomon’s temple point toward the “living temple” consisting of all Christians? (see Eph. 2:18-22; Heb. 10:19-22)
[This question is rated PG] Deuteronomy 17 explains what will pull a Jewish king from trusting his God: power, sex, and money. Solomon sought and acquired large amounts of each. He wandered away from God. We can be tempted by the same things (1 John 2:15-16). How have you been tempted by these recently? Praise God for sending the true king of Israel who would be tempted in all these ways and yet not sin. Remind yourself to pray to the Spirit for strength to resist as soon as you notice any temptations.

March 26 - 1 Kings 18 — Elijah and the Priests of Baal

The kings of Israel who followed Solomon took his sins and multiplied them. During this time in Israel’s history, the kingdom that was united under David and Solomon is divided into northern and southern kingdoms. Over and over, the kings call good what God calls evil. Two of the worst leaders are Ahab and Jezebel. You will read about them in today’s passage.

During this downward spiral of Israel’s leadership and culture, God raised up prophets to tell the kings and the people to turn back to the commands of God. They spoke of God’s mercy toward Israel and her sins, but they also remind them that God is just; he promised to destroy Israel for her disobedience. In this passage, Elijah shows the power and presence of the living God.

This is a fun chapter because of God’s victory over evil. Unfortunately, it did not change the hearts of sinful humanity. God’s miraculous deeds among the Jews rarely had a lasting effect.

What did Ahab and Jezebel do with the prophets of God? What did they do with the prophets of Baal?
As the kings of Israel turned from God, so did the people. Discuss how leaders impact a culture. Whose voices are the loudest in leading you? How are you doing leading yourself, your family, others?
In what ways does this event point ahead to God’s work in Jesus and the Holy Spirit?

March 27 - 2 Kings 25 — The Siege of Jerusalem and Exile of Judah

To understand today’s passage in context, requires a trip back almost 1,000 years, to the ministry of Moses and the start of the Mosaic Covenant.

“But if your heart turns away, and you will not hear, but are drawn away to worship other gods and serve them, I declare to you today, that you shall surely perish. You shall not live long in the land that you are going over the Jordan to enter and possess.” -- Deuteronomy 30:17-18

The Old Covenant was a tutor or schoolmaster, not a healer and life-giver. The Israelites were to learn their sin was their biggest problem. In the thousand years that followed, some Israelites learned their lesson, but many did not. As a result, today’s reading is sobering. We will read about God’s destruction of Solomon’s temple and the city of Jerusalem. Note that God used the Babylonians, whose warfare was notorious for its brutality, to judge his people.

God shows that he is slow to anger. Although he often punished Israel in smaller ways when they sinned, like the 40 years of wandering in the wilderness, it was almost 1,000 years before he finally removed the Israelites from the land. Do you have a story of how God was patient with you? Share that with someone.
What is worse than physical suffering and death? Keep your answer in your mind, and assuming you believe that eternal punishment and separation from God is worse, ask God to give you one person today with whom you can share the glorious news of forgiveness in Jesus.
The New Testament author of Hebrews warns Christians to beware of the “deceitfulness of sin” (Heb. 3:13). This sobering chapter is a good time to reflect on our confession of faith in Jesus and not take salvation for granted. Read and reflect on Hebrews 3:1-14.

March 28 - Daniel 3, 6 — The Fiery Furnace, Daniel and the Lion’s Den

Today’s reading picks up where yesterday’s left off. We move with the Jewish captives from Jerusalem to Babylon. The book of Daniel documents the work of God through four young men, focusing most on Daniel, who sought to obey God while being “re-educated” in Babylon.

Even though the Jews were not in the Promised Land, and did not have access to the temple to make offerings to God, the faithful Jews still sought to obey the laws of the Mosaic Covenant. We see inspiring faithfulness in these chapters today.

Reading about the death-defying faith of others encourages us. How do these chapters encourage you to live by faith and not by sight? Which other Christians have been role models for you to live by faith?
Daniel’s faithfulness has a great affect on King Darius. Have you been told that your faith has blessed others? Ask the Holy Spirit to use you today for God’s Kingdom purposes, bringing glory to him.
Read Romans 12:9-13, and ask the Holy Spirit to strengthen you to live the life God’s word describes here. Exhort one brother or sister in Christ today with these words.

March 29 - Jeremiah 29, 31:31-34 — Message of Hope to the Exiles and Promise of the New Covenant

Jeremiah was a prophet before the Babylonian invasion and during the exile of Judah. From the sacked city of Jerusalem, Jeremiah sends a letter to the Jews in Babylon. The letter is God’s message, and it is a surprisingly hopeful one in light of their circumstances.

Before establishing the Old Covenant and the law through Moses, God promised Abraham that he would make his descendants a great nation and bless all the families of the earth through them. They disobeyed, and are now scattered around the ancient world. God was not surprised. They had no power to overcome their sinful nature. Yet, just like Abraham, any Jew who trusted that God would fulfill his promises received God’s righteousness.

Jeremiah 29:11 is a popular verse, and one we often take out of context. Make sure to read God’s promise in 29:11 as written for the Jews first. Chapter 31 tells us that the “better things” are not entirely material but ultimately, a new and better covenant.

Chapter 29 shows us the “other voices” speaking to the Jews, claiming to be prophets or diviners for God. Just like our time, the Jews had to discern who was telling the truth. What and who helps us discern the truth today?
God had “a future and a hope” for these Jews in exile. What was the future and hope?
Despite Israel’s lack of obedience, God often promised that something better than the Old Covenant was coming. What are the differences between the New Covenant described in Jer. 31 and the Old Covenant made through Moses?

March 30 - Ezra 1, 3 — Rebuilding the Temple in Jerusalem

Sometimes God works in unexpected ways, and through unsuspecting people. In the book of Ezra, we see God working through Cyrus, king of Persia.

While the Jews were exiled, the Persians conquered Babylon and became the major world power. Persia now controlled all the land and people conquered by Babylon, including the city of Jerusalem and the Jews. God said he would return the exiled Jews to Jerusalem. And now he was doing that.

God stirred the heart of Cyrus. Years before this Persian king, Isaiah 44-45 cites a future ruler named Cyrus who would order the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the temple. (Interesting side note: the first century Jewish historian Josephus said Cyrus saw his name in Isaiah’s writing.) Cyrus instructed the Jews to return home and rebuild the temple for God. He sent them home with the gold and silver the Babylonians stole.

Have you ever seen God work through someone who doesn’t really know him? How so?
The older Jews mourned because they saw Solomon’s temple. The Babylonians destroyed it to such an extent that to rebuild it, they needed to re-lay the foundation. Consider how the New Covenant temple (us! The Church) is better than any temple the Jews could build. How is Jesus a better priest than any prior to him (see Heb. 10:11-18).
Pray for our governing leaders. God commands us to do so (1 Tim. 2:1-2). But there is a purpose: that we might live a peaceful and quiet life. Regardless of which political party is in power, we should pray for our leaders to this end.

March 31 - Psalms 1-2, 8 — Opening Psalms, How Excellent Your Name

The next three days are a little different. We step aside from the historical flow of the Bible, and instead look at some songs and poetry.

The book of Psalms was the hymn and prayer book for Israel, and serves a similar function for us today. However, the psalmists did not know about Jesus or the Holy Spirit like we do, so some translation of each psalm may be needed. Thankfully we can do that without ruining the emotional elements communicated by the psalmists. The psalms let us know that God does not require a Stoic faith. Quite the opposite. He encourages maturity in our handling of emotions, which requires us to be aware of them and to bring our joy, grief, fear, despair, and questions to him, our rock and our fortress.

Psalm 1 - The first psalm is focused on the Law, showing its importance in Jewish life and in the Mosaic Covenant. There is a clear distinction between those who follow the law and those who disregard it. As Christians, we delight not in the Mosaic law, but in Jesus, the only one who obeyed the law perfectly. We meditate on his life, death, resurrection, love, and obedience. We rejoice that we can receive his obedience as our own. Yet we are not law-less. We should make a daily effort to obey all that Jesus and the inspired authors of the New Testament instructed. With this psalm, we ought to meditate on God’s love for us in Christ Jesus.

Consider reading and meditating on Ephesians 1. Personalize it. Replace “us” with “me” and “we” with “I”. Meditating on God’s love will help make you like a healthy tree, bearing the Spirit’s fruit.

Psalm 2 - The “Anointed” was originally the king of Israel. Now we know the anointed refers to Jesus, the King of Kings, and King of the Jews. Read this psalm thinking of Jesus as the anointed.

The first verse expresses frustration, maybe even anger. These emotions are not sinful, but they are hard emotions to handle. Notice (in all the Psalms) that the psalmist takes his emotion to God.

What angers you about the opposition to God, especially in America’s political arena? Take a moment to read back through Psalm 2, adding your anger after verse 1. Then finish the psalm and let God’s justice and sovereignty comfort you.

Psalm 8 - Do you ever take time to wonder? Not just for a moment, but to really wonder about God, his creation, and your place in the universe. This Psalm will guide you into a good time of wonder.

Bookmark this Psalm and mark your calendar to come back to it and wonder. (Or, maybe the time to wonder is now.)

April 1 - Psalms 13, 23, 42 — The Lord is My Shepherd

Psalm 13 - This is a psalm of lament. There are 67 lament psalms, more than any other type. A lament can have a number of features, but only one is required: A complaint to God. Imagine that! God inspired the writing of 67 psalms of lament. Notice that this psalm does not even greet God. David moves immediately into the complaint.

Even though we have all the blessings and benefits of the gospel, we still live in a broken world. We experience pain.

Reflect on this type of psalm. Have you lamented to God?

Psalm 23 - A famous psalm for good reason. God is ever present. He leads to the pleasant, and he walks with us (not behind or ahead of) through the valley of the shadow of death. Don’t miss the purpose for this in verse 3: For his name’s sake.

How has God been like a good shepherd to you? Give him thanks, and share that with someone else.

Psalm 42 - Another lament psalm, but this one is more complex. The psalmist feels like God has forgotten him, yet he also wonders why his soul is downcast in light of God’s goodness and mercy.

Ever feel like God has forgotten you? Ever feel guilty about that? If you feel this tension, this psalm is for you. Take those to God. (And meditate on Ephesians 1.)

April 2 - Psalms 51, 91, 139 — Forgive Me, Search Me, and Know Me

Psalm 51 - This is David’s confession for sins of adultry and murder. In the Old Covenant, the Jews needed to plead with God for forgiveness of sins. There was no offering, sacrifice, confession, or repentance that left the penitent fully and forever cleansed. Knowing this,David, someone who knows God and is known by God, is pleading for God’s mercy. This marks a glorious distinction between the Old and New Covenants. In the new, our initial prayer when we come to faith should sound like this, but after that, we can know for sure that God has already blotted out our transgressions and cleansed us of our sin (vv. 1-2). We will not be cast from God’s presence (v. 11). However, that doesn’t mean we can be flippant about our sin. Quite the contrary. Because of God’s great love for us and God’s presence in us, we must be quick to ask forgiveness for our sins. As a Christian, you are washed clean. As a Christian, you can grieve the Holy Spirit by continuing in sin, or not acknowledging past sin.

Use this psalm as a prompt to confess any sin. Sit quietly, and let God show you any sin you might not see (recall the deceitfulness of sin). And/or, use this psalm to praise God for forgiving your past, present, and future sins.

Psalm 91 - This Psalm too needs some translation, yet the overall message is glorious. First, note the references to material blessings, including long life. Recall how the Old Covenant told Jews they would receive such things for obeying God. The psalmist seeks the Lord for protection, and he likely sees himself as having obeyed God’s commands. And, as a result, he hopes for the promised blessings. The New Covenant does not promise the same material blessings to us in this life. Jesus’ obedience fulfilled God’s demands, and by faith in him we receive his righteousness and so much more. Thus, we enjoy direct access to God’s throne of grace, we are adopted into the royal family, and have abundant life now and in the age to come. Rather than hope in material possessions, we have hope that God will finish what he started in us. Because God is your King and Father, he wants you to seek him for protection from Satan who seeks to devour, weakening our faith, and causing us to live by fear (by sight) rather than by faith.

Talk with your Father. He loves to hear from you. Thank him for being your refuge and fortress. Ask him to show you where you are trying to win a fight on your own, rather than resting behind his shield.

Psalm 139 - This psalm teaches about God’s complete knowledge (aka omniscients) and presence everywhere (aka omnipresence). As Christians, these are comforting words. Notice the praise to God for knitting the psalmist in his mother’s womb. God cares about you, and made you as he likes. He didn’t ask your opinion, yet did it for your good and his glory (vv. 19-22).

Is it comforting or disconcerting that God knows all things, including your thoughts, and is fully present in all of his creation (while being distinct from his creation)? You are fully known, yet called by him into his family. Let that sink in. Is it comforting that God knit you together, or would you rather look like someone else? Be honest. Ask him to give you a heart like his, loving what he loves and hating what he hates.

April 3 - Isaiah 9, 53, 61 — Prophecy of the Coming Messiah

Today is our last reading in the Old Testament. Congratulations! You have the 30,000 foot view of God’s plan to redeem his people and his place. The next 20 days we will be in the New Testament. Our reading in the Old Testament concludes with Isaiah, who ministered around 740 - 690 BC. During this time Israel, the northern kingdom, is judged and invaded by the Assyrians (722 BC). Isaiah is a prophetic messenger to two different kings of Judah. One king listened, the other did not.

Isaiah’s book is often called “The Gospel of the Old Testament” because of his emphasis on grace, love, and the coming Messiah. Today we read of a child given to us, on whose shoulders the government will rest (he will be king), he will be a light in the darkness and is described as an “Everlasting Father” (Is. 9). Yet, he will be despised and rejected. He will be acquainted with grief. God will crush him and count him a transgressor (Is. 53). In spite of this, he is the Anointed One to whom all other kings pointed. The Spirit of God will be upon him to bring good news, liberty, healing, and justice (Is. 61). God will fulfill his plan. He will renew all things.

Prophets had a difficult job, speaking the truth of God to an evil and disobedient people. Would you have liked to be a prophet?
Reflect on our readings in the Old Testament and share with someone what you have learned about the Old Covenant, about God, and about yourself.
Isaiah prophesied while the northern kingdom was destroyed and the southern kingdom at risk of the same. It must have been hard to think about the future with the enemy on the doorstep. Would you have found hope in Isaiah’s words considering those circumstances? Do you hope in God’s promises to bring future peace, health, life, despite our present circumstances?

April 4 - Luke 1-2 — The Birth of Jesus

God is on the move! He had been silent, no prophets, for 400 years. That is all about to change. Angels will speak of God’s plan, the Spirit will fill men, a virgin will become the mother of the Son of God.

Some of today’s reading will be familiar because of its connection with our annual Christmas celebration. But read it in light of the story God has unfolded thus far: A glorious and good creation; sin becoming the ruling power of the human heart and corrupting planet earth; God’s promise to crush the head of the serpent and to make Abraham the father of a multitude.

Remember, the Jewish people still live under the Old Covenant. They still sacrifice daily at the temple. They celebrate the Passover and remember God’s work in the past as they long for the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecies.

What do you like about Christmas time? What do you dislike about Christmas time? How could you make it better?
In today’s reading, where do you see references to Old Testament events or people we’ve read about? Where do you see the fulfillment of promises God made long ago?
How much do you long for the work of God in your life, our church, our city, and world? How often does the busyness of school, work, hobbies, life! crowd out a longing for God’s work?

April 5 - John 1:1-18, Mark 1 — Who Jesus Is

Like two different painters working on the same portrait, John and Mark provide two different perspectives of Jesus.

John takes us all the way back to “the beginning,” suggesting a new era dawning in creation. This is also the beginning of a new kingdom, where anyone--not just Jews--can believe in God and become his children. The law, given through Moses, is coming to an end. The Word, descended from the Father’s glorious presence, enters this dark, sinful world, to a people who do not recognize or regard him.

Mark moves quickly into action, but the hope prophesied through Isaiah sits behind all of Jesus’ action. God sends the prophet to the wilderness, John the Baptist (Is. 40). Jesus is anointed with the Spirit and brings healing to many (Is. 61). Jesus builds his kingdom (calls disciples), and his life is light in Galilee (Is. 9).

Do you ever think about what Jesus gave up to become man? For some insight, read Philippians 2:5-8. (As you do, note that his attitude is to be our own. Confess where that hasn’t happened. Ask the Spirit to strengthen you, and then trust he will.)
Jesus did not come for people in general, but for specific people, including you. Do you really believe that? Does it put a smile on your face and joy in your heart? I hope so.
Jesus’ life, death, resurrection, and ascension has dawned a new era in human history. Can you describe ways the world has changed since Jesus? Consider, for example, developments in religious liberties, equality (as traditionally understood), political structures, scientific discoveries, medical science in particular, education, the value of human life, etc.

April 6 - Matthew 5-7 — Sermon on the Mount

Jesus did not come to abolish, or destroy the Old Covenant. He had something better. His goal was not to simply replace the old with the new, but to fulfill the old and establish the new. Jesus obeys the law, loving God and loving neighbor without ever sinning. He was the only one ever to do it. It’s like a world record that will never be broken.

As God’s Son, Jesus not only fulfilled the law, he spoke with the authority of God. In this passage, his words are put on par with Scripture. Jesus said, “You have heard it said, but I SAY TO YOU…” Thus the wise man builds his life on the commands of Jesus, because they are the commands of God. Jesus amazed his listeners. He spoke with authority equal to God.

Do the Beatitudes reflect the values of our culture? Do they reflect the values of your home? Your heart? If so, thank God. If not, confess that to him, and ask for him to give you his heart.
Thank Jesus for coming and obeying. He wants you to obey his teaching, like we read at the end of this passage (build your house on the rock). Have you built your life on Jesus teaching? Which part of Jesus’ teaching in this Sermon do you need to work on?

You’ll enjoy the in depth study of the Sermon on the Mount in Pastor Doug’s podcast, Cross to Crown. Look for his eight podcasts on this passage, starting with episode #31.

April 7 - John 3-4 — God So Loved the World

Yesterday we read about Jesus teaching the masses with authority. Today, he teaches individuals. First, a Jewish leader named Nicodemus, and then a lowly Samaritan woman. Nicodemus, the teacher, comes because of Jesus’ “signs” or miracles. With his words and his works Jesus set himself apart from every other teacher, prophet, priest, or king Israel (and the world) had ever seen.

Jesus redefines God’s kingdom and salvation for Nicodemus. Good Jews thought in terms of Jewish nationalism. Offspring of Abraham, the laws, the dietary distinctions, the land, and the temple defined kingdom living for the Jews. Jesus defines the kingdom differently. It is neither Jewish ancestry nor laws given by God that saves or allows one to enter into God’s kingdom. It’s the Spirit of God who awakens our hearts so that belief in the Son of Man (Jesus) is possible. And that belief marks the entrance into the kingdom.

Jesus redefines life and worship for the Samaritan woman. Life is more than water, and worship is more than location. While water is necessary for our bodies, Jesus is talking about eternal life found only in him. Worship debates would no longer be about “where,” but “who”.

We used to see people holding “John 3:16” at sporting events. Why don’t we see that as much now? Should we?
Do you ever ponder the fact that the God of the universe loves (i.e. intentionally acts for the good of others)? He doesn’t just happen to love, or sometimes love; it’s one of his most recognizable traits (“God is love,” 1 John 4:8). Do you know anyone who had fame or fortune yet lived for the good of others? Ask God to give you the opportunity to tell someone about that good rich and famous person today. Then ask God to give you a chance to tell about your good, rich, loving God today.

April 8 - John 5-6 — Jesus’ Miracles and Authority

Jesus taught everyone to trust in, worship, and find salvation in him. That is authority. But if he really represents the creator God who alone is worshipped and obeyed (ideally!) by the Jews, Jesus must demonstrate his authority over creation.

He will do that in these two chapters. Notice the numerous ways in which Jesus’ words make creation move: a lameness healed, food multiplied, and walkable water. Then notice the responses. For many Jews, it’s fine to talk about a creator God, it’s another thing when he shows up and asserts his authority.

Chapter 5 is important on the nature of God. That phrase sounds stuffy and academic, but the idea is crucial so as not to fall prey to psuedo-Christian religions and teach different ideas. From John 5, describe Jesus’ relationship with the Father.
The fallen human heart hates losing control. But one of the best things for us is to see correctly the true amount of control we possess. Have you felt a loss of control recently? As that loss of control relates to the coronavirus, how has that scared you? How has it helped you?
Jesus is a healer. He continues to heal. Do you pray to him when healing is needed? Your Elders are available to pray with you for physical or spiritual healing. Contact one of us if you’d like prayer. (We can still pray by phone or Zoom.)

April 9 - John 11-12 — Jesus Raises Lazarus, His Power Over Death

Jesus has authority to command us. Jesus has authority to command creation (right now, creation obeys better than we do.) Jesus has authority over death.

Do you remember our readings back in Genesis 1-3? God told Adam that if he ate of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, he would surely die. You might have noticed that one of the main problems with life is that it ends. You might also have noticed that one of the good things about life is that it ends. (Eternal life in this fallen condition would be like hell, especially if God were not present and forgiveness no longer possible.) The world needs a hero. More than a brilliant orator, more than a wise and brave leader, more than a healer. The world needs someone who can undo death. Here he is, riding into Jerusalem on a donkey.

Do you like to clean up other people’s messes? What’s the worst mess you’ve had to clean up that you didn’t cause? How does this relate to sin, death, and Jesus?
Whoever believes in Jesus believes in God, and rejecting Jesus is rejecting God (John 12:44,48-49). Do you find it easier to talk about Jesus or God? Have you ever talked about God with someone only to find out they have a very different view of him? Has that happened when talking about Jesus?
The last enemy Jesus will defeat is death (1 Cor. 15:25-26). Someday, death will exist no more. Ponder that, and thank Jesus.

April 10 - John 16-17 — Christ’s Comfort and High Priestly Prayer

All of human history has pointed ahead to Jesus, and now, at the age of 33, Jesus says his life on earth is over. The disciples didn't grasp the significance of this, but it seems they were beginning to understand the imminence of his departure. The worst news from the disciples’ perspective, Jesus calls a “good thing”!

And it was. Why? Because, after the crucified Jesus comes the resurrected Jesus. The resurrected Jesus will teach them how all Scripture points to him. That he is the solution to the world’s--and every individual’s--greatest problem, sin. Jesus’ death on the cross is the healing and liberation every sinner needs. Through faith, we are freed, forgiven, adopted by God, united with Christ, and baptized in the Holy Spirit.

Jesus prays for his disciples. Most of his prayer is for the eleven sitting around his table, but you, and our church, are prayed for in 17:20-22. Wow! God is good. Have a blessed Good Friday.

The last verse of John 17, takes us to the heart of God...Jesus’ ministry and death on the cross. Do you believe God loves you, or do you see God as distant, critical, or indifferent toward you? If you are tempted to view God this way--and I think we all are--then ask the Helper, the Holy Spirit, for awareness to rid those thoughts from your mind. Tell him you don’t want to believe lies anymore. He loves to help you see lies and strengthen you to say goodbye to them. Jesus loves you this I know, for the Bible tells me so.
Jesus said, “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth...You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you” (John 14:16-17). Jesus was eager to send the Spirit. Do you know the Holy Spirit? Do you rely on him daily? Don’t ask for a blank check of help. He wants to help you as your needs come. He wants you to walk with him, not without him. Ask him today, in Jesus name, to help you love God and your neighbor.

If you want more on these chapters, revisit our sermons on these chapters. Look in January 2020.

April 11 - Matthew 26-27 — Arrest and Crucifixion of Jesus

These two chapters are sobering, to say the least. Notice the myriad of characters and their responses to Jesus in these two chapters.

In these two chapters, Jesus faces his greatest trial. In loving obedience to his Father, he drank the cup, the wrath of God, that you should have been forced to drink. He was treated like a criminal, but we are the criminals. He was treated like the worst of sinners by his loving Father.

Why? For you, and your salvation. Because your Father loves you (Titus 3:3-7). Think about it.

What emotions do you feel after reading this?
Describe three different responses to Jesus found in these chapters.
Recall Paul’s simple summary of Jesus’ work on the cross from 2 Corinthians 5:21: “For our sake, he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (ESV). Take each phrase, stopping at each period or comma, and reflect on it. Whether alone or with others, read this verse, phrase by phrase, out loud. Your ears need to hear it.

April 12 - John 20 — The Resurrection of Jesus

Death entered God’s good creation through Adam’s sin. Since that day in God’s good garden, spiritual separation from God (spiritual death), and physical death have reigned on earth. Every person has disobeyed God, and every person has died. What started so beautifully in the first garden, ended so tragically.

After thousands of years, hope comes through a different garden. I love that Mary Magdalene mistakes Jesus for the gardener. In a way, she wasn’t mistaken. The true gardener finished his work. Jesus is alive!

In one garden, Adam was tempted and brought sin and death into the world. In this garden, Jesus brings forgiveness and life. Where Adam and Eve obeyed the serpent and became enslaved to sin, Jesus sets the captives free to live lives of joy and godliness. In the first garden, Adam brought hatred and discord, in this garden, Jesus brings love and unity.

What started so tragically in this garden has ended so beautifully.

He Is Risen! Happy Easter!

Share a favorite Easter memory with someone. Call or Facetime or Zoom if necessary.
What is something God is making new in your life? (e.g. a physical healing, a fresh love for him, a new love for your neighbors, a new grace for yourself and/or others, etc.)
“...go to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God” (20:17). Jesus calls YOU his brother or sister. So, through faith, you are. Embrace that. The same is true of Jesus’ father. He’s--happily, lovingly--your father too. Wow, you are special!
“Blessed are those who have not seen [Jesus] yet believed” (John 20:29). That’s you! Thank God for opening the eyes of your heart to the truth about Jesus. Ask God to use you to share this truth with someone else who needs to know the joy of Easter, and the love of God.

April 13 - Luke 24 — The Ascension of Jesus

It’s worth another look at the resurrection story, this time from Luke’s researched perspective. While John shared the story of Mary Magdalene, Luke tells us there were other women with her at the tomb that Sunday morning. But like John, Luke shows us the slow, startling realization by Jesus’ disciples of what happened--He is risen!

After various disciples met the resurrected Jesus, Luke tells us that Jesus opened their minds to understand, for the first time, how the Old Testament scriptures refer to him. This is why we make it a priority to read the Bible in light of Jesus. The Old Testament points forward, the Gospels tell about him, and the rest of the New Testament looks back at him and his continuing work through his Spirit.

When did you meet the resurrected Jesus? Tell someone that story.
Do you see Jesus throughout Scripture? If not, ask someone to help you read the Bible this way.
Both John and Luke include a “sending” of the disciples. Like Matthew’s record of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20), each gospel writer tells us that Jesus sent his disciples so that every nation would hear about him. In John and Luke, the authors include comments about the giving of the Holy Spirit. We will read about the Spirit tomorrow, but in anticipation, get things right with the Holy Spirit. Ask him to show you any sin in your life and confess what he brings to mind; sit quietly and give him time to show you. Then ask him to be your power for ministry and for telling others about Jesus. You were never meant to do it in your own wisdom and strength.

April 14 - Acts 1-2 — Giving of the Holy Spirit

“And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city [Jerusalem] until you are clothed with power from on high” (Luke 24:49, ESV).

Do you believe it is better to give than receive (Acts 20:35)? God does. Here we read about him giving his Spirit to empower those first disciples to tell others the good news.

One of our greatest callings is to share what we’ve received. I’ll admit it, our secular (non-religious, even anti-religious) culture seems interested in everything but God. Don’t believe that lie. God is right now opening doors for us to share the good news we could never have opened ourselves. But you don’t have to do it alone.

Today’s reading shows that God intended to empower his disciples with the Holy Spirit. Watch how the Holy Spirit transforms the fearful disciples into his ambassadors. Watch how he uses impetuous Peter as the first Billy Graham. Believe that this same Spirit is in you, and wants to do similar work through you.

Pentecost was a major Jewish festival. It followed Passover by 50 days. Many would stay in Jerusalem from Passover to Pentecost. How do you think Jesus’ disciples felt during those 50 days?
Despite seeing the risen Lord Jesus, we have no record of them talking with others about Jesus until the Holy Spirit, the “power from on high,” was given to them. Why do you think that is?
How have you been used by the Holy Spirit to share the gospel? Was there anything unexpected about the doors he opened to make those conversations possible?

April 15 - Acts 9 — Conversion of Saul

We focus on Jesus’ death and resurrection for good reason. In three days Jesus unlocked a door to which only he had the key. Only a perfect, sinless sacrifice could take away our sins and defeat death. But God has more to do. He is making new creations, and renewing the world through them. Now that the door is open, Jesus is on the move.

On the road to an ancient town called Damascus, Saul (later, he will go by his Greek name, Paul), is on a mission to arrest those foolish Jews who believe Jesus is God’s Messiah (we call them Christians). But to get to them, he must go through Jesus. On the road, the King of Kings confronts this killer of Christians. It is no contest. Paul submits to the amazing grace of God.

God works through Peter too, not as a great preacher but a compassionate healer. These signs point to the days ahead, when God will make all things new, including you.

God is on the move. It is better that Jesus is at his side. The Spirit is filling and empowering God’s apostles. Remember, this same Spirit lives in you.

What is your favorite part of the story told in Acts 9?
Do you tend to focus on Jesus’ death and resurrection at the expense of his ongoing work, or do you find his death and resurrection the start of his ongoing, present-day work in the world, and in you?
Do you ever wish God would audibly explain your mission like he did to Paul? Admittedly, Paul’s mission was broad (take the gospel to “Gentiles, kings, and Israelites”--that covers everyone). Maybe a better prayer is to ask the Holy Spirit to empower you for the kingdom work he has for you today. Take a moment to pray for that.

April 16 - Acts 16-17 — The Gospel Spreads, Sermon at Mars Hill

Today’s reading includes a brief tour with Paul, the late-coming apostle, empowered by God. Why would Luke, the likely author of Acts, record this? Not because of Paul’s greatness, but because of God’s. The risen Lord Jesus is on the move!

God made it possible for people of every tribe, tongue, and nation--not just Jews--to join his family. Paul, a devout Jew, goes into the houses of Gentiles who then become followers of Jesus. Lydia, the merchant, feeds him and his companions, and the Philippian jailor serves them. This is one more proof that the Old Covenant is done. Christians are not concerned with what people eat, but who they worship. And God is fulfilling his covenant with Abraham. It is not the Jews who were the promised offspring of Abraham’s seed, but Jesus, and all who trust in him. Lydia and the Philippian jailor are children of Abraham, and so are you (Galatians 3:7-9).

Before you read the passage, ask God to open your heart and mind to what he wants to show you from these wonderful chapters.

What stands out to you as you read? Do you think God is highlighting that specifically for you, or is it simple curiosity (and curiosity is fine)?
Paul faces opposition to the gospel from Gentiles and Jews. Remember that Satan is behind all of this. Nonetheless, the opposition to the gospel is real. Have you faced opposition in your efforts to share and spread the gospel? Take a moment to pray for our brothers and sisters who face severe persecution for their faith.
Through FRAC Missions we financially support the work of missionaries through the Alliance and numerous other organizations. Take a moment to pray for our missionaries. Ask the Spirit to guide them, empower them, and comfort them. Then, look for FRAC’s monthly prayer guide for our missionaries. Stick it in your Bible, and commit to praying for one missionary each day (or, keep up your current practice of praying for our missionaries).

April 17 - Romans 1-3 — Justification by Faith Alone

Have you ever drawn a self portrait? My wife is currently teaching some students how to do it. She says the hardest part, even beyond the skill of drawing, is looking closely and being honest with how you look. I have realized I only spend enough time in front of the mirror to look presentable. I’d rather not see every detail.

Romans 1-3, and the rest of the Bible, is like a mirror for our souls. If we take time to look, God can show us what is really there.

We must know our sins enough to confess them. Not only when we first come to faith, but every day after so we do not grieve God and lose the power of the Holy Spirit. The ultimate goal is not to look at ourselves, but to see God. We learn the truth when we realize we have nothing to offer God in exchange for his righteousness. We shouldn’t wallow in our sin but recognize that God sees us, warts and all, and still loves us. He sent his Son, so that forgiveness and life and hope could be yours and mine for free, as a gift from your Father.

Paul spends considerable time holding the mirror to the Christian community in Rome. The church consists of former Jews and pagan Gentiles. Paul wants them to have the whole picture, so after his greeting, he starts with the problem of sin, then ends chapter three with the free gift of salvation for sinners...like us!

Do you like gifts? What’s one of the best gifts you’ve received (apart from salvation, we’ll get to that)? What made it special?
We’ve considered this before, but it’s worth revisiting...do you realize you are fully known, and unconditionally loved, by your Heavenly Father? Let that sink in. Take a deep breath, and relax in that. You don’t need to fix yourself. The Holy Spirit will help you with all you need to do.
God’s gift of salvation only looks good if we really need it. Do you really need it, kind of need it, sometimes need it? (Don’t give the ‘right’ answer, give the honest one.)

April 18 - Romans 6-8 — Battle with Sin, Life in the Spirit

We read yesterday that salvation is through faith alone. That’s what God made possible in Jesus. Today Paul answers the questions ‘now what?’ and ‘how should we live?’ Remember that prior to Christ, every people group, religion, and every community had laws. But nobody had the power of God to obey. In Paul’s day, the gift of salvation was new, and so was the gift of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit empowers Christians for the daily ministry God has for us, and provides power for godly living.

In Romans 6, Paul argues that Christians must live according to God’s will because we have “died with Christ.” Yet, in Romans 7, Paul acknowledges that Christians are released from the law, why? Because the job of the law is to expose our weakness. There is no relationship with the law. The good news is that, while our flesh is weak, God’s power lives in us. This is the message of Romans 8, a chapter many Christians consider their favorite in the whole Bible.

Romans 8 is filled with many great truths. Which truth or promise do you need to meditate on? Write those verses on an index card, or your bathroom mirror, and memorize them.
As another pastor said, “God cannot do for us what we try to do for ourselves.” What are you trying to do for yourself that the Spirit who raised Jesus from the grave is willing to do for you? Ask the Spirit to show you.

Walking in step with the Spirit is vital for us. In order to do that you need to: (1) Accept God’s free gift of salvation in Jesus by faith; (2) Admit to him your need to be controlled by him rather than by our flesh; (3) Ask him to show you sins in your life, and confess those to him; (4) Ask the Spirit to lead you daily. Submit to him your thoughts, attitudes, words, and actions. Begin each day yielding it to the Spirit of God; and (5) Practice the presence of Jesus. Pray through challenges. Thank God for blessings. When tempted, ask God for his power. If you sin, ask God to forgive you, to restore you, and empower you again. Stay plugged into the Holy Spirit. (These five practical steps come from Dr. Jim Denison’s book, Empowered: A Guide to Experiencing the Power of the Holy Spirit.)

April 19 - 1 Corinthians 15 — The Power of the Resurrection

Death came into the world through Adam. We’ve been wading through the sin ravaged world in our readings, and in our lives. For the Old Testament Jew, death was an evil. It cut one off from the people of God, the worship of God, and the presence of God. A long, full life was the desire of every Jew, an early death was an evil and indicated God’s judgment for sin. Death was an unrelenting enemy who won every battle, an undefeated champion.

When Jesus’ tomb was empty on the first Easter Sunday, all that changed. Jesus’ resurrection made the believer’s death a door into the presence of God. Eternal life begins when you come to Christ. It will continue through death, and into eternity. And when Jesus returns to make all things new, he will put death to death, and that will be the defeat of God’s last enemy.

Jesus’ bodily resurrection is essential to Christianity. If Jesus did not rise from the dead, our faith (and a lot of your time spent reading the Bible), is useless. But as Paul shows here, your greater concern should be that without the resurrection, you are still in your sins. Imagine facing God with your sins still on your account. Thank God for Jesus’ death and resurrection.

How do you view death? Is it an end, or a beginning?
Can you imagine a world without sin, sickness, and death? Try it! A mental image of it will give you hope and joy against the struggles of today.

April 20 - Ephesians 1, 6 — As God’s Chosen Ones, Put On the Armor of God

The Christian life is not for the faint of heart. We have an enemy who wants to discourage and devour us. The Ephesian believers receiving this letter from Paul needed to hear that. But, the message to Christians does not start, or stop, with a warning. The Christian message sits securely in the work of the living God. In Ephesians 1, Paul reminds his readers of God’s past decision to save sinners in Jesus (predestination), the present reality of the believers’ redemption, and our adoption into his family. All of this is signed, sealed, and delivered with the King’s personal seal, the promised Holy Spirit. He guarantees all this is true and in accord with the will of God.

Internalize and ruminate on this. This is our strong armor, able to protect us from Satan’s lies. What Paul describes as armor in Ephesians 6, he states as truths in Ephesians 1.

Predestination is clearly stated here. God decided before the foundation of the world who would be in his family. Rest in that. Paul does, and the Holy Spirit inspired him to write this. At the same time, we are never told to use predestination as a grid for other people. We are called to share the gospel and see who responds. Ask God to open a door for you to share the glorious gospel today.
Your strength is in God, not yourself. You are weak but he is strong. Pray if you feel too weak to fight against anything you are facing right now. The Spirit is your helper.
This coronavirus journey is difficult. We lack control and the things that usually bring us joy. Please take a minute to pray for our church. Use Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 1:15-19 as a guide and trust God to answer.

April 21 - Philippians 1-2 (& 3-4) — The Example of Christ (Rejoice Always)

I encourage you to read all of Philippians rather than just the first two chapters. In just four chapters, God provides us with most of the lessons we need to thrive during this pandemic.

Paul is in jail, probably in Rome. He is unsure if his near future includes freedom or death. Jail in the ancient world was miserable, and isolating. Paul experiences loneliness and an uncertain future.

Yet Paul knows Jesus. He knows he is never, ultimately alone. At the same, he shows his natural human desire for companionship. He is honest about what he needs and resolutely fixed on the power and promises of God.

Notice the many references to ‘joy’ and ‘rejoicing’. Notice his exhortation to control your minds (2:2-5; 4:4-9), and how hopeful he is amidst various trials.

How do you think Paul felt, alone in jail or house arrest? What do you think he would long for?
One pastor likes to say, “The preacher you listen to most is yourself.” How is your inner preacher? Any heresy in that pulpit? To put it another way, how are you at taking your thoughts captive and thinking about what is true (4:8-9) and intentionally looking out for the interests of others (2:4)?
Our minds can be flabby. When you read what you ought to focus on, do you follow God’s instructions in Philippians 2:2-5 and 4:8-9?
Have you been taking your worries and anxieties (about the future, your work, your loved ones, your financial resources, the Democrats, the Republicans, our Governor, etc.) to God? If not, you’ve likely been stressed and anxious. What do you need to take to Jesus now? Take your time doing it. He is a personal God, not a machine.
“Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (2:12-13). God instructs us to continue working on our obedience to him. We can’t rest on past decisions (to salvation) or experiences, nor our own strength. We work out our salvation in the Spirit’s power. What part of your walk with him do you need to focus on? In what ways do you need to do that in his strength and not your own?

April 22 - Revelation 2-3 — Letters to the Churches

When we think of Revelation, we often think of symbolism and imagery. These chapters, however, consist of clear and practical letters to seven churches in the ancient world. Churches are collections of people, Christ followers. They are not buildings, though that is usually what we think when we say ‘church’ today. Churches are identified based on their geographical position, where people live and work. Thus the churches of seven cities here, and our own identification of FRAC East and West.

The letters demonstrate God’s love for his not-yet perfect people. A father who ignores his kids is negligent and unloving. A father who is too harsh, all rebuke and no love or compliment, is likewise deficient as a parent. But these letters, technically understood as from Jesus (you’ll see the various ways he is described), shows his love through commendation (to six churches), rebuke (to five churches), and promises for the churches who overcome.

Do any of these letters sound like they could be written to you? Is there a commendation that rightly applies to you? Is there a rebuke that applies to you? If so, apply the solution mentioned associated to the rebuke and apply it in your life.
My previous question highlights our individualistic nature, and how we think about ourselves. But a church is not a collection of individuals. It is a family, one body working together, sharing each other’s joys and sorrows. With that in mind, which of these letters apply to our church, specifically FRAC East or FRAC West? Then, prayerfully consider how you can help our body work toward remaining steadfast in our strengths and overcoming our weaknesses.
God is not waiting to make us obedient at some future date. His name is too holy and special for us to neglect our role as his representatives on earth during our lifetime. Please pray for our church and the other churches in Colorado Springs.

April 23 - Revelation 21-22 — The New Heaven and New Earth

In the beginning was God. He made all things through speaking words, and the result was a very good creation with no moral or other deficiencies. The world did not stay that way. Man, animal, and ground were cursed and corrupted. Still God did not abandon them.

In John we hear about the Word, and the word was with God and he was God. He was fully God and also fully man. Jesus would enter his Father’s fallen world to liberate it, starting with the Jews, then the Gentiles, and eventually the beasts and the ground. The road to recreation went through the cross on a hill outside Jerusalem and a tomb in a nearby garden. The journey continued to Jesus’s ascension, exaltation, and sending the Spirit to empower his people for kingdom living and proclamation.

The road is hard. But for every believer, the new creation can motivate perseverance. The hope is life in the presence of God, fully, unhindered, and unending. Because of the reality of the first creation and the recreation, we can confidently hope for the day when God will make all things new. Here’s what that will look like!

We all look forward to good things, time with close friends, a much needed vacation, and seeing new parts of God’s current creation. How can you add the new creation to your list of things for which you desire? Put that into practice. Hope is a Christian virtue when it is anchored in the promises of God.
Why won’t the new creation ever experience sin? Who is missing that we saw in Genesis 3? (You might want to look at Revelation 20 to learn about the end of our greatest enemies.)
Congratulations! You have read a lot of God’s word and I hope have gained a better understanding of who God is. Share with someone something significant you learned through this 40 Day Overview of the Bible.

In conclusion, here’s a prayer for us: Father, please show me more of who you are, teach me to know your unfailing love for me in Jesus Christ, strengthen and empower me to glorify you each day by your Holy Spirit, and give me a longing for eternal life with you that makes all struggles on this earth seem inconsequential. And do all of this for your Church as well. In Jesus name, Amen.