Acts 4:36-5:11
Joseph, called Barnabas ( which means Son of Encouragement), he did good behavior what sold his owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles' feet
Ananias and Sapphira sold their land kept part of the money for themselves, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles' feet.
They have not lied to men but to God.
The pooling of property was voluntary, but some were prompted less by real generosity than by a desire to impress. In lying to the church.
Peter has the power to look into heart of men for the Holy Spirit is with peter.
Great fear seized the whole church and all who heard about these events.
Why?
Ananias and Sapphira were practising deceit against God himself. The terrible consequences serve as an example to the whole community.
Barnabas: Later chapters show how aptly he was named. A leader in the church at Antioch, he and Paul were sent out together as missionaries. Paul benefit from Barabas' encouragement-- so too did Barnabas' young cousin, John Mark.
Don't ask the praise from men but instead from the God for what I are doing.
We are living with Holy Spirit so follow the way of Holy Spirit.
Everyone has judgement in that day. We should fear the Lord either, because we are like Ananias.
This church is God's church for the apostles with Holy Spirit and filled with love and sharing love. All are one in heart and mind.
How?
Fear the Lord, don't despise the warning from Holy Spirit. God knows everything in my heart.
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
Prayer in the willing of God
Acts 4:23-35
Apostles were released, they reported all the chief priests and elders had said to them.
They raised their voices together in prayer to God. Through Psalm 2:1,2
They knew that Herod and Pontius Pilate did what God's power and will had decided beforehand should happen.
They prayed, 'Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.'
After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.
All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had.
Why?
Released, they pray for boldness, and their prayer is answered.
After this event they prayed to the Lord, the Holy Spirit filled in them. they spoke the word of God boldly.
They were praying and living together and shared everything they had. This church is like a big family.
They didn't afraid the threats from human, and they prayed to the Lord enable them to speak the word of God boldly, and perform the healing and wonders through the name of Jesus Christ. This is the message and the gospel of the Lord.
How?
Pray in the willing of the Lord and enable us to do the work of the Lord, so the prayer will be answered.
Apostles were released, they reported all the chief priests and elders had said to them.
They raised their voices together in prayer to God. Through Psalm 2:1,2
They knew that Herod and Pontius Pilate did what God's power and will had decided beforehand should happen.
They prayed, 'Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.'
After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.
All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had.
Why?
Released, they pray for boldness, and their prayer is answered.
After this event they prayed to the Lord, the Holy Spirit filled in them. they spoke the word of God boldly.
They were praying and living together and shared everything they had. This church is like a big family.
They didn't afraid the threats from human, and they prayed to the Lord enable them to speak the word of God boldly, and perform the healing and wonders through the name of Jesus Christ. This is the message and the gospel of the Lord.
How?
Pray in the willing of the Lord and enable us to do the work of the Lord, so the prayer will be answered.
Monday, April 28, 2014
It is by the name of Jesus Christ
Acts
4:1-22
By
what power or what name did you do this? Peter said to them:” It is by the name of Jesus Christ of
Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man
stands before you healed.”
Peter
and John were unschooled, ordinary men,
but they saw them the courage and
the man who had been healed standing there with them, there was nothing they
could say.
Salvation
is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by
which we must be saved.
Judge yourselves whether it is right
in God’s sight to obey you rather than God. For we cannot help speaking about
what we have seen and heard.
Despite
the arrest of Peter and John, numbers continue to grow. The Council may warn,
but the apostles cannot stop speaking.
Why?
It
is the teaching, centring on the risen Christ, which annoys the Sadducees-
naturally enough, since they denied the possibility of resurrection.
The
resurrection was at the heart of the Christian message from the beginning.
Unschooled,
ordinary men can heal a cripple, and speaking about the resurrection made five
thousand people believed in Jesus. It is the Holy Spirit with them, so they
have wisdom and courage to speak Jesus Christ.
How?
I
cannot help speaking about what it have been done on me from the Lord. Jesus
Christ is the Lord. It is by the name of Jesus Christ
Sunday, April 27, 2014
Don't act in ignorance
Acts 3:17-26
Peter spoke more about Jesus Christ is the promised one from the Lord. God had said this through many prophets, from Moses, Samuel and Abraham. They acted in ignorance as did also their rulers.
Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out.
God saying to Abraham, 'And in your offspring shall all the families of the earth be blessed.'
Why?
People did not confess they have sins so they won't accept Jesus Christ as their savior.
Jesus coming is the plan of God in the beginning of the earth when Adam has sin.
Repent and turn to Jesus Christ is the important message to every one.
How?
Jesus Christ is the savior to all people, this is the love to us from the Lord. Don't act in ignorance.
Peter spoke more about Jesus Christ is the promised one from the Lord. God had said this through many prophets, from Moses, Samuel and Abraham. They acted in ignorance as did also their rulers.
Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out.
God saying to Abraham, 'And in your offspring shall all the families of the earth be blessed.'
Why?
People did not confess they have sins so they won't accept Jesus Christ as their savior.
Jesus coming is the plan of God in the beginning of the earth when Adam has sin.
Repent and turn to Jesus Christ is the important message to every one.
How?
Jesus Christ is the savior to all people, this is the love to us from the Lord. Don't act in ignorance.
Saturday, April 26, 2014
What I do have I give to you
Acts 3:1-16
Peter with John healed the lame beggar at the gate of Temple that is called the Beautiful Gate.
"I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk" Peter said to him.
Peter addressed the people and witnessed Jesus Christ is raised from the dead: you denied the Holy and Righteous One, and killed the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead. To this we are witness.
Jesus Christ his name - by faith in his name-- has made this man strong whom you see and know, and the faith that is through Jesus has given the man this perfect health in the presence of you all.
Peter's message here is much the same in Chapter 2, calling his fellow-Israelite repentance and faith.
Why?
Peter has the sense that the Holy Spirit is with him so he said to the lame to him rise up and walk. The words was with power of Jesus Christ.
Healing and teaching, both made possible by the power of the Spirit of God, go together here, as they did in the ministry of Jesus.
What I do have I give to you is the essential motivation of follower of Jesus Christ. As Jesus what he has done for all of us.
How?
I found I am not so easy to do as peter has done, because I have some property. Please forgive my sin. I like to struggle for this target and get the life prize from the Lord.
Peter with John healed the lame beggar at the gate of Temple that is called the Beautiful Gate.
"I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk" Peter said to him.
Peter addressed the people and witnessed Jesus Christ is raised from the dead: you denied the Holy and Righteous One, and killed the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead. To this we are witness.
Jesus Christ his name - by faith in his name-- has made this man strong whom you see and know, and the faith that is through Jesus has given the man this perfect health in the presence of you all.
Peter's message here is much the same in Chapter 2, calling his fellow-Israelite repentance and faith.
Why?
Peter has the sense that the Holy Spirit is with him so he said to the lame to him rise up and walk. The words was with power of Jesus Christ.
Healing and teaching, both made possible by the power of the Spirit of God, go together here, as they did in the ministry of Jesus.
What I do have I give to you is the essential motivation of follower of Jesus Christ. As Jesus what he has done for all of us.
How?
I found I am not so easy to do as peter has done, because I have some property. Please forgive my sin. I like to struggle for this target and get the life prize from the Lord.
Friday, April 25, 2014
Repent and be baptized, you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit
Acts 2:37-47
Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
This promise is for all whom the Lord our God will call.
Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles.
The Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
God is calling them to himself.
The baptism of 3000 people is followed by a new, joyous sense of community.
This finds practical expression in a readiness to share money and possessions. It is sustained by a new pattern of life.
Breaking of bread: It took place in the context of a shared meal.
How?
Repent and be baptized through Jesus is the respose to the Jesus Christ.
Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
This promise is for all whom the Lord our God will call.
Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles.
The Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
God is calling them to himself.
The baptism of 3000 people is followed by a new, joyous sense of community.
This finds practical expression in a readiness to share money and possessions. It is sustained by a new pattern of life.
Breaking of bread: It took place in the context of a shared meal.
How?
Repent and be baptized through Jesus is the respose to the Jesus Christ.
Thursday, April 24, 2014
God has made Jesus both Lord and Christ. God raised him from the dead.
Act 2:22-36
Jesus was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him.
Peter said about the David's words in Psalm 16:8-11 and Psalm 110:1 to prove that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.
God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.
God had raised this Jesus to life and we are all witnesses of the fact.
Jesus has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear.
What shall we do? people and the other apostles asked.
They have killed Jesus by allowing him to be crucified. God has raised him to life.
Why?
Peter clearly explain what happen about Jesus and the Holy Spirit has poured out what they have saw and heard. Jesus has raised from the dead as he said and promised.
All of the apostles be baptised by Holy Spirit they knew what is going on. They all witnesses the face that Jesus has raised from the dead, he is the son of God.
So many miracles, signs and wonders was accredited by the God that Jesus is the Lord.
What shall we do? repent and believe in Him.
How?
Jesus is the son of God and he is the Lord. Jesus has conquered the dead. Praise the Lord and Jesus Christ!
Jesus was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him.
Peter said about the David's words in Psalm 16:8-11 and Psalm 110:1 to prove that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.
God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.
God had raised this Jesus to life and we are all witnesses of the fact.
Jesus has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear.
What shall we do? people and the other apostles asked.
They have killed Jesus by allowing him to be crucified. God has raised him to life.
Why?
Peter clearly explain what happen about Jesus and the Holy Spirit has poured out what they have saw and heard. Jesus has raised from the dead as he said and promised.
All of the apostles be baptised by Holy Spirit they knew what is going on. They all witnesses the face that Jesus has raised from the dead, he is the son of God.
So many miracles, signs and wonders was accredited by the God that Jesus is the Lord.
What shall we do? repent and believe in Him.
How?
Jesus is the son of God and he is the Lord. Jesus has conquered the dead. Praise the Lord and Jesus Christ!
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Transformed by the Holy Spirit
Acts 2:14-21
Peter stood up with the Eleven, explained to the crowd that they are not drunk, as they suppose. It's only nine in the morning. It is what was spoken by the prophet Joel.
Joel 2:28-32
In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women, they will prophesy.
And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
Why?
The impassioned激切 address delivered by a transformed Peter evokes an immediate response. This is the work of Holy Spirit on Peter.
Peter is transformed that he remembered all Jesus had said to him, and he knew the Bible even he was a fisherman.
How?
The Holy Spirit make us know the word of God and transform our life to understand the vision of heaven. Waiting for the Holy Spirit from heaven when I am ready.
Peter stood up with the Eleven, explained to the crowd that they are not drunk, as they suppose. It's only nine in the morning. It is what was spoken by the prophet Joel.
Joel 2:28-32
In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women, they will prophesy.
And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
Why?
The impassioned激切 address delivered by a transformed Peter evokes an immediate response. This is the work of Holy Spirit on Peter.
Peter is transformed that he remembered all Jesus had said to him, and he knew the Bible even he was a fisherman.
How?
The Holy Spirit make us know the word of God and transform our life to understand the vision of heaven. Waiting for the Holy Spirit from heaven when I am ready.
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
The Holy Spirit came from heaven to apostles with the signs of flame
Acts 2:1-13
The Holy Spirit comes at Pentecost, with a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting.
All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues(languages) as the Spirit enabled them.
Many Jews came from every nation, they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard them speaking in his own language. There were 14 languages.
With the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost the waiting is over.
Tongues of flame that all can see denote an inner change which is quickly evident.
Pentecost: The old Jewish festival of First fruits, which took place at the beginning of the wheat harvest. It was 50 day after the Passover.
Some made fun of them and said these men are drunk!
Why?
The wind and the tongues of flame are signs of the presence and power of God.
The apostles and disciples become the new church, full of life and power, utterly different from their former fearful selves. And the change is permanent.
When Holy Spirit filled the house, they spoke many languages that could be understood, it was not the unknown words.
Apostles and disciples did not ask for Holy Spirit, but the Holy Spirit came from heaven to them.
When a man full of Holy Spirit like a drunk man, he could not control himself.
How?
When I believed in the Jesus Christ and my mind and my heart confessed to the Lord, the Holy Spirit has come to me. For my life has changed with his power to make change in my life. This change is permanent.
The Holy Spirit comes at Pentecost, with a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting.
All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues(languages) as the Spirit enabled them.
Many Jews came from every nation, they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard them speaking in his own language. There were 14 languages.
With the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost the waiting is over.
Tongues of flame that all can see denote an inner change which is quickly evident.
Pentecost: The old Jewish festival of First fruits, which took place at the beginning of the wheat harvest. It was 50 day after the Passover.
Some made fun of them and said these men are drunk!
Why?
The wind and the tongues of flame are signs of the presence and power of God.
The apostles and disciples become the new church, full of life and power, utterly different from their former fearful selves. And the change is permanent.
When Holy Spirit filled the house, they spoke many languages that could be understood, it was not the unknown words.
Apostles and disciples did not ask for Holy Spirit, but the Holy Spirit came from heaven to them.
When a man full of Holy Spirit like a drunk man, he could not control himself.
How?
When I believed in the Jesus Christ and my mind and my heart confessed to the Lord, the Holy Spirit has come to me. For my life has changed with his power to make change in my life. This change is permanent.
Monday, April 21, 2014
Apostles are witness of Jesus Christ resurrection
Acts 1:12-26
11 apostles together among about 120 believes at Mount of Olives.
Peter said to them " Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled which the Holy Spirit spoke long go through the mouth if David concerning Judas... Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from John' s baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us." This is the required condition to choose a new apostle.
It is written in Psalm 69:25
Purpose: For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection.
They proposed two men: Joseph called Barsabbas and Matthias. Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.
As far as we know, this is the last time the apostles use the time-honoured method of casting lots. It is not just a 'lucky dip' - the decision is made after much prayer.
Why?
The 12 apostles parallel the 12 tribes of Israel, so the number must be made up.
The 12 man must has been with Christ throughout his earthly ministry, and have seen him after the resurrection.
Peter is the leader among apostles after Jesus Christ was taken up.
Jesus resurrection is most important evidence to the believer of Christ.
How?
To be the follower of Jesus Christ is to honor name of Jesus Christ and the Lord. And to be the witness of the Lord.
11 apostles together among about 120 believes at Mount of Olives.
Peter said to them " Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled which the Holy Spirit spoke long go through the mouth if David concerning Judas... Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from John' s baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us." This is the required condition to choose a new apostle.
It is written in Psalm 69:25
Purpose: For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection.
They proposed two men: Joseph called Barsabbas and Matthias. Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.
As far as we know, this is the last time the apostles use the time-honoured method of casting lots. It is not just a 'lucky dip' - the decision is made after much prayer.
Why?
The 12 apostles parallel the 12 tribes of Israel, so the number must be made up.
The 12 man must has been with Christ throughout his earthly ministry, and have seen him after the resurrection.
Peter is the leader among apostles after Jesus Christ was taken up.
Jesus resurrection is most important evidence to the believer of Christ.
How?
To be the follower of Jesus Christ is to honor name of Jesus Christ and the Lord. And to be the witness of the Lord.
Sunday, April 20, 2014
Acts: Holy Spirit comes to us will be witnesses of the Lord
Acts 1:1-11
Acts is a letter Luke wrote to the official Theophilus, about the Jesus after his suffering by many proofs, and what his disciple have done.
Jesus appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God.
Wait for the promise of the Father, you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.
It seems the apostles still see God's kingdom in nationalistic terms, expecting Israel in the end to become an independent state.They didn't know what the kingdom of God, they were thought the kingdom of Israel.
The time or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority.
When the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the world.
Jesus who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.
The first part of Luke's work this Gospel is an account of all that Jesus did and taught during his life on earth.
Act continues the story after his return to God, when his work continues through the apostles, empowered by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost五旬節.
Why?
Jesus wanted us know the kingdom of God, it is not the real kingdom in the earth, but it is in our heart and in the heaven.
The authority of Holy Spirit come is belong to the God, when will come how to come has fixed by his own authority.
Holy Spirit come upon us for we will be God's witness from here extent to the end of the world.
Jesus was ascended to heaven, he will come in the same way from heaven at that day.
The cloud: The sign of God's glory and the means of conveying Jesus from them.
How?
H.S. is come to us will be God's witness but not be us. I needs the Holy Spirit to teach me and guide me to honor the name of Jesus in this world.
Acts is a letter Luke wrote to the official Theophilus, about the Jesus after his suffering by many proofs, and what his disciple have done.
Jesus appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God.
Wait for the promise of the Father, you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.
It seems the apostles still see God's kingdom in nationalistic terms, expecting Israel in the end to become an independent state.They didn't know what the kingdom of God, they were thought the kingdom of Israel.
The time or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority.
When the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the world.
Jesus who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.
The first part of Luke's work this Gospel is an account of all that Jesus did and taught during his life on earth.
Act continues the story after his return to God, when his work continues through the apostles, empowered by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost五旬節.
Why?
Jesus wanted us know the kingdom of God, it is not the real kingdom in the earth, but it is in our heart and in the heaven.
The authority of Holy Spirit come is belong to the God, when will come how to come has fixed by his own authority.
Holy Spirit come upon us for we will be God's witness from here extent to the end of the world.
Jesus was ascended to heaven, he will come in the same way from heaven at that day.
The cloud: The sign of God's glory and the means of conveying Jesus from them.
How?
H.S. is come to us will be God's witness but not be us. I needs the Holy Spirit to teach me and guide me to honor the name of Jesus in this world.
Saturday, April 19, 2014
Steps to arisin
Ezra 10:1-44
Ezra prayed and made confession, weeping and casting himself down before the house of God, and many Israelites wept bitterly also.
Arise, for it is your task, and we are with you; be strong and do it.
Most people agreed to separate themselves from the peoples of the land and from the foreign wives. But there are a few people opposed this.
The whole assembly gathers to hear his judgment. We see them shivering in the December rains and can almost hear the interchange that follows.
The blame for all the unhappiness of broken marriages rests not on Ezra, but who contracted those marriages in defiance 蔑視 of God's law. Some of them had even broken former marriages to Jewish wive to do so.
The list of 10:18 unlike that of Chapter 2 begins with the names of the guilty priests, those who should have given a moral lead.
The text of the second part of the sentence is damaged. 1 Esdras 9:36 supplies the divorce and sending away of wives and children, painful though it is.
Why?
Ezra first prayed to the Lord and confessing the sins, weeping for their sins.
Arising from the confessing of our own sins.
After confessed our sins then do it. It painful but it have to be done. In man's standard it was cruel and no love, but God's law is higher than my moral standard or my loving one.
How?
Confessing our sins is the first step, then do the refresh living style obey the word of God is important.
Ezra prayed and made confession, weeping and casting himself down before the house of God, and many Israelites wept bitterly also.
Arise, for it is your task, and we are with you; be strong and do it.
Most people agreed to separate themselves from the peoples of the land and from the foreign wives. But there are a few people opposed this.
The whole assembly gathers to hear his judgment. We see them shivering in the December rains and can almost hear the interchange that follows.
The blame for all the unhappiness of broken marriages rests not on Ezra, but who contracted those marriages in defiance 蔑視 of God's law. Some of them had even broken former marriages to Jewish wive to do so.
The list of 10:18 unlike that of Chapter 2 begins with the names of the guilty priests, those who should have given a moral lead.
The text of the second part of the sentence is damaged. 1 Esdras 9:36 supplies the divorce and sending away of wives and children, painful though it is.
Why?
Ezra first prayed to the Lord and confessing the sins, weeping for their sins.
Arising from the confessing of our own sins.
After confessed our sins then do it. It painful but it have to be done. In man's standard it was cruel and no love, but God's law is higher than my moral standard or my loving one.
How?
Confessing our sins is the first step, then do the refresh living style obey the word of God is important.
Friday, April 18, 2014
Confess our sins
Ezra 9:1-15
Ezra prayed to the Lord and confessed their sins, "from the days of our ancestors until now, our guilt has been great. We have forsaken the commands you gave through your servants the prophets."
We are left this day as a remnant. Here we are before you in our guilt, though because of it not one of us can stand in your presence.
For the people of Israel, including the priests and the Levites have not kept themselves separate from the neighboring peoples with their detestable practices. They married with them, the leaders and officials have led the way in this unfaithfulness.
Why?
Since their return, priests and Levites, rulers and people alike have intermarried with the heathen people around, a thing forbidden by God, not out of racial prejudice but because it led to idolatry.
This very practice had been major factor in the nation's downfall under the kings. Yet even the horrors of defeat and exile have not taught the people their lesson. Ezra's bitter distress at the disclosure is therefor not surprising.
Ezra prayed for his people and his nation with all his heart and mind. He confessed their sins to the Lord sincerely.
How?
I should pray to the Lord and confess the sins of people in Taiwan. Hope the mercy and grace can pour down to Taiwan this land.
Ezra prayed to the Lord and confessed their sins, "from the days of our ancestors until now, our guilt has been great. We have forsaken the commands you gave through your servants the prophets."
We are left this day as a remnant. Here we are before you in our guilt, though because of it not one of us can stand in your presence.
For the people of Israel, including the priests and the Levites have not kept themselves separate from the neighboring peoples with their detestable practices. They married with them, the leaders and officials have led the way in this unfaithfulness.
Why?
Since their return, priests and Levites, rulers and people alike have intermarried with the heathen people around, a thing forbidden by God, not out of racial prejudice but because it led to idolatry.
This very practice had been major factor in the nation's downfall under the kings. Yet even the horrors of defeat and exile have not taught the people their lesson. Ezra's bitter distress at the disclosure is therefor not surprising.
Ezra prayed for his people and his nation with all his heart and mind. He confessed their sins to the Lord sincerely.
How?
I should pray to the Lord and confess the sins of people in Taiwan. Hope the mercy and grace can pour down to Taiwan this land.
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Boasted confidence but with humble heart in God
Ezra 8:1-36
Ezra's party of over 1700 includes priests, people and somewhat reluctantly, Levites.
Ezra assembled the family from Babylon at the canal that flows toward Ahava, he found no Levies there, so he summoned the leaders to bring capable man from the descendants of Mahlia son of Levi.
Ezra proclaimed a fast so that they might humble themselves before the God and ask him for a safe journey for them.
Ezra set apart twelve of the leading priests, together with sherebiah, Hashabiah and ten of their brothers, he weighed out to them the offering and the articles that the king, his advisers, his officials and all Israel present there had donated for the house of God. Ezra weighted out to them, and they weighted out to be taken to the house of God in Jerusalem. Everything was accounted for by number and weight, and the entire weight was recorded at that time.
With them they take as gifts 22 tonnes of silver and 3400kg of gold. Ezra is faced with a long and dangerous journey at a time of great unrest.And, having boasted his confidence in God, he can hardly now apply to the king for an escort! His prayer is heartfelt, and his faith rewarded by God's own safe-conduct.
Why?
Ezra knew what he is doing, so he assemble those peoples will go with him and checked the needed persons to serve the Lord. second he proclaim for fast and pray for the safe journey, then he carefully weighted the donated golds and silvers, and recorded the number.
Even Ezra has confidence the hand of God is over him but he asked king for soldiers and horsemen to protect them from enemies on the road.
The faith and altitude of Ezra to serve the Lord is our good example.
How?
Confidence with humble in our heart so that the confidence won't turn to proud which may cause some false or fell.
Ezra's party of over 1700 includes priests, people and somewhat reluctantly, Levites.
Ezra assembled the family from Babylon at the canal that flows toward Ahava, he found no Levies there, so he summoned the leaders to bring capable man from the descendants of Mahlia son of Levi.
Ezra proclaimed a fast so that they might humble themselves before the God and ask him for a safe journey for them.
Ezra set apart twelve of the leading priests, together with sherebiah, Hashabiah and ten of their brothers, he weighed out to them the offering and the articles that the king, his advisers, his officials and all Israel present there had donated for the house of God. Ezra weighted out to them, and they weighted out to be taken to the house of God in Jerusalem. Everything was accounted for by number and weight, and the entire weight was recorded at that time.
With them they take as gifts 22 tonnes of silver and 3400kg of gold. Ezra is faced with a long and dangerous journey at a time of great unrest.And, having boasted his confidence in God, he can hardly now apply to the king for an escort! His prayer is heartfelt, and his faith rewarded by God's own safe-conduct.
Why?
Ezra knew what he is doing, so he assemble those peoples will go with him and checked the needed persons to serve the Lord. second he proclaim for fast and pray for the safe journey, then he carefully weighted the donated golds and silvers, and recorded the number.
Even Ezra has confidence the hand of God is over him but he asked king for soldiers and horsemen to protect them from enemies on the road.
The faith and altitude of Ezra to serve the Lord is our good example.
How?
Confidence with humble in our heart so that the confidence won't turn to proud which may cause some false or fell.
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Why should there be wrath of the God of heaven against us?
Ezra 7:1-28
Ezra was a teacher well versed in the Law of Moses. The king (Artaxerxes) had granted him everything he asked for the hand of the Lord his God was on him.
Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the Lord, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel.
The letter King Artaxerxes is written:
Why should there be wrath of the God of heaven against the realm of the king an of hos sons?
All of the servants at the temple of the Lord have no authority to impose taxes, tribute or duty.
Whoever does not obey the law of your God and the aw of the king must surely be punished by death, banishment, confiscation of property, or imprisonment.
Praise be to the Lord, who has put it into the king's heart to bring honor to the house of the Lord in Jerusalem in this way and who has extended his good favor to me before the king and his advisers and all the king's powerful officials. Because the hand of the Lord my God was on me.
The story of Ester, the queen who saved the Jewish people from massacre fits into the interval of nearly 60 years which separates 7:1 from 6:22
Why?
Ezra is a scholar of God's law. He will teach it to the new community of God's people, so that they will not repeat past mistakes.
1)Devoted himself, 2)study and 3)observance the Law of God and 4)teaching it. Four steps in Ezra effort in Israel.
Most important factor is the hand of the Lord is on Ezra.
Fear the Lord is the basic good altitude of the king in nations.
How?
Prepare ourselves and waiting for the mission of the Lord comes to me. Fear the Lord is beginning of the blessing and wisdom.
Ezra was a teacher well versed in the Law of Moses. The king (Artaxerxes) had granted him everything he asked for the hand of the Lord his God was on him.
Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the Lord, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel.
The letter King Artaxerxes is written:
Why should there be wrath of the God of heaven against the realm of the king an of hos sons?
All of the servants at the temple of the Lord have no authority to impose taxes, tribute or duty.
Whoever does not obey the law of your God and the aw of the king must surely be punished by death, banishment, confiscation of property, or imprisonment.
Praise be to the Lord, who has put it into the king's heart to bring honor to the house of the Lord in Jerusalem in this way and who has extended his good favor to me before the king and his advisers and all the king's powerful officials. Because the hand of the Lord my God was on me.
The story of Ester, the queen who saved the Jewish people from massacre fits into the interval of nearly 60 years which separates 7:1 from 6:22
Why?
Ezra is a scholar of God's law. He will teach it to the new community of God's people, so that they will not repeat past mistakes.
1)Devoted himself, 2)study and 3)observance the Law of God and 4)teaching it. Four steps in Ezra effort in Israel.
Most important factor is the hand of the Lord is on Ezra.
Fear the Lord is the basic good altitude of the king in nations.
How?
Prepare ourselves and waiting for the mission of the Lord comes to me. Fear the Lord is beginning of the blessing and wisdom.
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Be rejoice
Ezra 6:1-22
Darius checks the court records, and discovers the scroll on which King Cyrus's decree is written. The Jews have official authorization for their Temple, even to the dimensions and material used.
The Lord had filled them with joy by changing the attitude of the king of Assyria, so that he assisted them in the work in the house of God, the God of Israel.
The temple was completed on the third day of the month Adar, in the sixth year of the reign of King Darius. The four years the Temple is finished and the people are able to celebrate Passover.
The sacrifices were enjoyed not only by the returned Jewish exiles, but also by all those who had given up the pagan ways of the other people who were living in the land and who had come to worship the Lord God of Israel.
Here is the 'remnant' of Israel, true to their identity, bring others into covenant relationship with God: separate but not exclusive.
Why?
For a nation that has recently come through a second exodus, delivered by God from their bondage in Babylon, this must have had very special meaning.
It is the Lord who did it for his Holy name and his glory.
How?
God has given salvation to us and filled us with joy, why we are worry and fear? Be rejoice with our brothers and the Lord.
Darius checks the court records, and discovers the scroll on which King Cyrus's decree is written. The Jews have official authorization for their Temple, even to the dimensions and material used.
The Lord had filled them with joy by changing the attitude of the king of Assyria, so that he assisted them in the work in the house of God, the God of Israel.
The temple was completed on the third day of the month Adar, in the sixth year of the reign of King Darius. The four years the Temple is finished and the people are able to celebrate Passover.
The sacrifices were enjoyed not only by the returned Jewish exiles, but also by all those who had given up the pagan ways of the other people who were living in the land and who had come to worship the Lord God of Israel.
Here is the 'remnant' of Israel, true to their identity, bring others into covenant relationship with God: separate but not exclusive.
Why?
For a nation that has recently come through a second exodus, delivered by God from their bondage in Babylon, this must have had very special meaning.
It is the Lord who did it for his Holy name and his glory.
How?
God has given salvation to us and filled us with joy, why we are worry and fear? Be rejoice with our brothers and the Lord.
Monday, April 14, 2014
The eye of our God is watching over us who follow his word
Ezra 5:1-17
Priest Haggai and Zechariah the prophet prophesied to the Jews in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel, who was over them.
Then Zerubbabel set to work to rebuild the house of God in Jerusalem.
Tattenai and their associates went to them and asked "Who authorized you to rebuild this temple and restore this structure?"
But the eye of their God was watching over the elders of the Jews, and they were not stopped until a report could go to Darius and his written reply be received.
Why?
It was the Lord let them rebuild the temple who is over anyone in the world.
The eye of the our God is watching over his followers. Whom I fear when I walking in the way of the Lord.
Urged on by the prophets Haggai and Zechariah, the people again start building. This time an attempt to get the new king, Darius, to stop it has the opposite effect.
How?
God is over all the people in the world! Pray to the Lord, he will help me resolve the problem between me and my wife.
Priest Haggai and Zechariah the prophet prophesied to the Jews in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel, who was over them.
Then Zerubbabel set to work to rebuild the house of God in Jerusalem.
Tattenai and their associates went to them and asked "Who authorized you to rebuild this temple and restore this structure?"
But the eye of their God was watching over the elders of the Jews, and they were not stopped until a report could go to Darius and his written reply be received.
Why?
It was the Lord let them rebuild the temple who is over anyone in the world.
The eye of the our God is watching over his followers. Whom I fear when I walking in the way of the Lord.
Urged on by the prophets Haggai and Zechariah, the people again start building. This time an attempt to get the new king, Darius, to stop it has the opposite effect.
How?
God is over all the people in the world! Pray to the Lord, he will help me resolve the problem between me and my wife.
Sunday, April 13, 2014
Be ware of the enemies of Christ, let us not into temptation.
Ezra 4:1-24
Opposition to the rebuilding from the enemies of Judah and Banjamin. They tried to help them to build because they seek God also.
But Zerunbabel, Jushua and the rest of the heads of the families of Israel refused them. " You have not part with us in building a temple to our God. We alone will build it for the Lord, the God of Israel, as King Cyrus commanded us."
They hired counselors to work against them and frustrate their plans during the entire reign of Cyrus king of Persia and down to the reign of Darius king of Persia.
V 6-23 interrupt the chronological sequence to carry the account of the opposition through to the time of Ezra and Nehemiah, early 100 years later. Here the bone of contention is the rebuilding of the city walls.
Ezra and Nehemiah describe the three stage return: the main party, who returned with Zerunbabel in 538/7, the exiles who returned with Ezra 80 years later, in 458; and Nehemiah's party in 445. Because it is difficult to put the events of the two books in time order.
Why?
The settlers offer help. They too now offer sacrifices to the God of this land. But the Jews will have none of it, and so the settlers stir things up, managing to stop the work for 15 long years, until Darius is king.
The enemies of God were working against them,frustrated their plans, even they are working against Christian in this generation.
How?
Our enemies is in the Spiritual fighting. Be ware of the enemies of Christ, let us not into temptation.
Opposition to the rebuilding from the enemies of Judah and Banjamin. They tried to help them to build because they seek God also.
But Zerunbabel, Jushua and the rest of the heads of the families of Israel refused them. " You have not part with us in building a temple to our God. We alone will build it for the Lord, the God of Israel, as King Cyrus commanded us."
They hired counselors to work against them and frustrate their plans during the entire reign of Cyrus king of Persia and down to the reign of Darius king of Persia.
V 6-23 interrupt the chronological sequence to carry the account of the opposition through to the time of Ezra and Nehemiah, early 100 years later. Here the bone of contention is the rebuilding of the city walls.
Ezra and Nehemiah describe the three stage return: the main party, who returned with Zerunbabel in 538/7, the exiles who returned with Ezra 80 years later, in 458; and Nehemiah's party in 445. Because it is difficult to put the events of the two books in time order.
Why?
The settlers offer help. They too now offer sacrifices to the God of this land. But the Jews will have none of it, and so the settlers stir things up, managing to stop the work for 15 long years, until Darius is king.
The enemies of God were working against them,frustrated their plans, even they are working against Christian in this generation.
How?
Our enemies is in the Spiritual fighting. Be ware of the enemies of Christ, let us not into temptation.
Saturday, April 12, 2014
He is good, his love endures forever
Ezra 3:1-13
On the first day of the seventh month they began to offer burnt offering to the Lord, though the foundation of the Lord's temple and not yet been laid.
After they got the cedar logs by sea from Lebanon to Joppa. In the second month of the second year after their arrival at the house of God in Jerusalem, they began the work.
When the builders laid the foundation of the temple of the Lord, the priests in their vestments and with trumpets, the Levites with cymbals took their places to praise the Lord. With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the Lord: "He is good, his love to Israel endures forever."
All the people gave a great shout of praise to the Lord. No one could distinguish the sound of the shouts of joy from the sound of weeping.
The first thing to be rebuilt is the altar, so that worship and sacrifice may begin again, on patter laid down by Moses.
Everything must be properly done: according to the instructions written in the Law of Moses. Everone took their places to praise the Lord.
Why?
When Israelite returned from exile they knew that the Lord is faithful and his word is never failed, what they had honor when they followed the word of Lord and what they had suffered when they did evil against the Lord. All these history make them wept and shout to the Lord.
Tasted the mercy of the Lord will really know the love of the Lord.
The Older men wept for the glories of the Temple that had been destroyed.
How?
Do not forget the love of the Love, He is good. His love, power and faithfulness endure forever.
Take our places to praise the Lord.
On the first day of the seventh month they began to offer burnt offering to the Lord, though the foundation of the Lord's temple and not yet been laid.
After they got the cedar logs by sea from Lebanon to Joppa. In the second month of the second year after their arrival at the house of God in Jerusalem, they began the work.
When the builders laid the foundation of the temple of the Lord, the priests in their vestments and with trumpets, the Levites with cymbals took their places to praise the Lord. With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the Lord: "He is good, his love to Israel endures forever."
All the people gave a great shout of praise to the Lord. No one could distinguish the sound of the shouts of joy from the sound of weeping.
The first thing to be rebuilt is the altar, so that worship and sacrifice may begin again, on patter laid down by Moses.
Everything must be properly done: according to the instructions written in the Law of Moses. Everone took their places to praise the Lord.
Why?
When Israelite returned from exile they knew that the Lord is faithful and his word is never failed, what they had honor when they followed the word of Lord and what they had suffered when they did evil against the Lord. All these history make them wept and shout to the Lord.
Tasted the mercy of the Lord will really know the love of the Lord.
The Older men wept for the glories of the Temple that had been destroyed.
How?
Do not forget the love of the Love, He is good. His love, power and faithfulness endure forever.
Take our places to praise the Lord.
Friday, April 11, 2014
Records what God has done on me to show his love and faithfulness
Ezra 2:1-70
The people of Israel came up from captivity of the exiles returned to Jerusalem and Judah, each to his own town.
The whole company numbered 42,360, beside their 7.337 menservants and maidservants; and they also had 200 men and women singers. They had 736 horses, 245 mules, 435 camels and 6720 donkeys.
When they arrived at the house of the Lord in Jerusalem, some of the heads of the families gave freewill offerings toward the rebuilding of the house of God in its site. According to their ability they gave to the treasury for this work.
The priests, the Levites, the singers, the gatekeepers and the temple servants settled in their own towns, along with some of the other people.
Here lists the leaders, the clans of Israel, of priests and Levites, of Temple workmen and Solomon's servants.
It lists the towns people returned to, the places where their families had once lived.
Why?
Records like this are an important proof of ancestry, a matter of vital importance for the priests.
Zerubbabel is the grandson of exiled King Jehoiachin; Joshua/Jeshus the son of Jehozadak, the leading priest, also deported from Jerusalem by King Nebuchadnezzar.
How?
Records what God has done on me and my response to the Lord, let people know the greatness and love of the Lord.
The people of Israel came up from captivity of the exiles returned to Jerusalem and Judah, each to his own town.
The whole company numbered 42,360, beside their 7.337 menservants and maidservants; and they also had 200 men and women singers. They had 736 horses, 245 mules, 435 camels and 6720 donkeys.
When they arrived at the house of the Lord in Jerusalem, some of the heads of the families gave freewill offerings toward the rebuilding of the house of God in its site. According to their ability they gave to the treasury for this work.
The priests, the Levites, the singers, the gatekeepers and the temple servants settled in their own towns, along with some of the other people.
Here lists the leaders, the clans of Israel, of priests and Levites, of Temple workmen and Solomon's servants.
It lists the towns people returned to, the places where their families had once lived.
Why?
Records like this are an important proof of ancestry, a matter of vital importance for the priests.
Zerubbabel is the grandson of exiled King Jehoiachin; Joshua/Jeshus the son of Jehozadak, the leading priest, also deported from Jerusalem by King Nebuchadnezzar.
How?
Records what God has done on me and my response to the Lord, let people know the greatness and love of the Lord.
Thursday, April 10, 2014
God's continuing love to his faithful people--Ezra
Ezra 1:1-11
In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, in order to fulfill the word of the Lord spoken by Jeremiah, the Lord moved the heart of Cyrus to make a proclamation throughout his realm and to put it in writing.
It was allow anyone of his people go up to Jerusalem in Judah and build the temple of the Lord, the God of Israel, the God who is in Jerusalem.
And brought out the articles belonging to the temple of the Lord, which Nebuchadnezzat had carried away from Jerusalem and had placed in the temple of his God.
In all, there were 5,400 articles of gold and of silver.
The family heads of Judah and Benjamin, and the priests and Levites prepared to go up Jerusalem.
Ezra and Nehemiah describe the three stage return: the min party, who returned with Zerubabel in 538/7; the exiles who returned with Ezra 80 years later, in 458 and Nehemiah's party in 445.
Nearly 50,000 Jews returned from exile - only a handful compared with the nation they had once been. Yet the survival of this 'remnant' was evidence of God's continuing love for his faithful people.
Why?
God's word never failed. He is faithful Lord. God has his plan that beyond our mind.
It is shows that the word of Jeremiah was written through the Lord.
The proclamation of Cyrus king of Persia was put in writing, let people of the Lord in next a few year may continue to build the temple of the Lord and wall in Jerusalem.
How?
How wonder the power of our God, and how wonder love to his faithful people!
In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, in order to fulfill the word of the Lord spoken by Jeremiah, the Lord moved the heart of Cyrus to make a proclamation throughout his realm and to put it in writing.
It was allow anyone of his people go up to Jerusalem in Judah and build the temple of the Lord, the God of Israel, the God who is in Jerusalem.
And brought out the articles belonging to the temple of the Lord, which Nebuchadnezzat had carried away from Jerusalem and had placed in the temple of his God.
In all, there were 5,400 articles of gold and of silver.
The family heads of Judah and Benjamin, and the priests and Levites prepared to go up Jerusalem.
Ezra and Nehemiah describe the three stage return: the min party, who returned with Zerubabel in 538/7; the exiles who returned with Ezra 80 years later, in 458 and Nehemiah's party in 445.
Nearly 50,000 Jews returned from exile - only a handful compared with the nation they had once been. Yet the survival of this 'remnant' was evidence of God's continuing love for his faithful people.
Why?
God's word never failed. He is faithful Lord. God has his plan that beyond our mind.
It is shows that the word of Jeremiah was written through the Lord.
The proclamation of Cyrus king of Persia was put in writing, let people of the Lord in next a few year may continue to build the temple of the Lord and wall in Jerusalem.
How?
How wonder the power of our God, and how wonder love to his faithful people!
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Let everything that has breath praise the Lord
Psalm 149-150
Praise the Lord! Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise in the assembly of the saints.
The Lord takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with salvation.
May the praise of God be in their mouths and a double-edged sword in their hands, to inflict vengeance on the nations and punishment on the peoples.
Praise God for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness.
Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.
Every instrument in the Temple orchestra, everything with life and breath in the whole creation, is called to join in a mighty crashing paean(歡樂歌) of praise to God.
Why?
This is a public psalm, for the assemble people. They rejoice in military triumph, with drums ad dancing, at the victory God has given. Their enemies are vanquished, subject, and punished.
The double-edges swords in the New Testament is a metaphor for the word of God. God's word has power to resolve the mystery in heart of men.
Vengeance: Victory for the downtrodden necessarily entails defeat for the forces of oppression.
How?
Praise God for his surpassing greatness, for his acts of power. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Let more people turn to the Lord!
Praise the Lord! Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise in the assembly of the saints.
The Lord takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with salvation.
May the praise of God be in their mouths and a double-edged sword in their hands, to inflict vengeance on the nations and punishment on the peoples.
Praise God for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness.
Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.
Every instrument in the Temple orchestra, everything with life and breath in the whole creation, is called to join in a mighty crashing paean(歡樂歌) of praise to God.
Why?
This is a public psalm, for the assemble people. They rejoice in military triumph, with drums ad dancing, at the victory God has given. Their enemies are vanquished, subject, and punished.
The double-edges swords in the New Testament is a metaphor for the word of God. God's word has power to resolve the mystery in heart of men.
Vengeance: Victory for the downtrodden necessarily entails defeat for the forces of oppression.
How?
Praise God for his surpassing greatness, for his acts of power. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Let more people turn to the Lord!
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
He gave a decree that will never pass away
Psalm 148:1-14
God set all sun, moon, stars, heavens in place for ever and ever; he gave a decree that will never pass away.
Let them(all creatures) praise the name of the Lord, for his name alone is exalted; his splendor is above the earth and the heavens.
He has raised up for his people a horn, the praise of all his saints, of Israel, the people close to his heart.
The psalm calls on everything there is to praise its Creator; the angels in heaven; sun, moon and stars; the earth and its creatures; the elements; the wild and the tame; kings and all people everywhere.
And who should praise him like his own? It is his saints and the people close to his heart.
Horn: meaning God has given them strength and power.
Why?
God set everything in place so the world has order to run ever and ever.
Only the name of God above earth and heavens. His glory and splendor above all.
God gives us the strength and power so we can face the difficulty and suffering, we may be free from the dead and be blessed through the Holy Spirit.
How?
Praise the Lord, his name is exalted. May more people come close to his heart!
God set all sun, moon, stars, heavens in place for ever and ever; he gave a decree that will never pass away.
Let them(all creatures) praise the name of the Lord, for his name alone is exalted; his splendor is above the earth and the heavens.
He has raised up for his people a horn, the praise of all his saints, of Israel, the people close to his heart.
The psalm calls on everything there is to praise its Creator; the angels in heaven; sun, moon and stars; the earth and its creatures; the elements; the wild and the tame; kings and all people everywhere.
And who should praise him like his own? It is his saints and the people close to his heart.
Horn: meaning God has given them strength and power.
Why?
God set everything in place so the world has order to run ever and ever.
Only the name of God above earth and heavens. His glory and splendor above all.
God gives us the strength and power so we can face the difficulty and suffering, we may be free from the dead and be blessed through the Holy Spirit.
How?
Praise the Lord, his name is exalted. May more people come close to his heart!
Monday, April 7, 2014
God has revealed his word to us
Psalm 147:1-20
The great power our Lord has done, he created everything in the world.
It is good to sing praise to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise him!
The Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.
God has revealed his word to Jacob, his laws and decrees to Israel.
Here is God the Almighty: the universe, the seasons, the nation, the elements are his to command. His power sets him utterly above and beyond humankind.
Yet his heart goes out to individuals: all who are hurt and unhappy. He takes pleasure in those who love and respect him. And he gives his people his word to live by. Praise the Lord!
Why?
The psalmists drew many images from the natural world of God's creation to express, not just beauty, but suffering too.
The strength of horse or the legs of a man is not pleasant to the Lord, but God delight those who fear him and put his hope in his unfailing love. The Lord is my strength and my hope. We rely on Him and my eyes focus on Him.
The Lord has revealed his word to us, it is written in the Bible. He also reveal general grace and general revelation to all people, but the Lord has revealed special grace and revelation to his people in Bible.
How?
Praise the Lord is worthy!
The great power our Lord has done, he created everything in the world.
It is good to sing praise to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise him!
The Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.
God has revealed his word to Jacob, his laws and decrees to Israel.
Here is God the Almighty: the universe, the seasons, the nation, the elements are his to command. His power sets him utterly above and beyond humankind.
Yet his heart goes out to individuals: all who are hurt and unhappy. He takes pleasure in those who love and respect him. And he gives his people his word to live by. Praise the Lord!
Why?
The psalmists drew many images from the natural world of God's creation to express, not just beauty, but suffering too.
The strength of horse or the legs of a man is not pleasant to the Lord, but God delight those who fear him and put his hope in his unfailing love. The Lord is my strength and my hope. We rely on Him and my eyes focus on Him.
The Lord has revealed his word to us, it is written in the Bible. He also reveal general grace and general revelation to all people, but the Lord has revealed special grace and revelation to his people in Bible.
How?
Praise the Lord is worthy!
Sunday, April 6, 2014
Waiting for God my Savior
Micah 7:1-20
All men lie in wait to shed blood; they all conspire together in Israel.
A man's enemies are the members of his own household.
Faithfulness, honesty, trust: all are gone. All human relationships are crumbling. Friendship and family count for nothing.
But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.
Israel will rise; though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light. Because I have sinned against him, I will bear the Lord's wrath, until he pleads my case and establishes my right. He will bring me out into the light; I will see his righteousness.
Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy.
Why?
Righteous men wait for God, but the evil on wait to shed blood.
The human scene is black, but hope remains because Micah knows his God.
With God there is yet light. He may still be relied on.
His promise will not fail. He will build again. He will deliver again. In his compassionate live he will forgive again.
So Micah will watch and wait for shepherd his people, doing miracle for them as of old, showing compassion.
Watchmen : The prophets were posted as watchmen to warn of coming judgment.
O Lord! No one like you, for your mercy, your love and your righteousness.
How?
I wait for the Lord , my Savior. He will transform my heart, he is my Lord, I am a sinner.
All men lie in wait to shed blood; they all conspire together in Israel.
A man's enemies are the members of his own household.
Faithfulness, honesty, trust: all are gone. All human relationships are crumbling. Friendship and family count for nothing.
But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.
Israel will rise; though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light. Because I have sinned against him, I will bear the Lord's wrath, until he pleads my case and establishes my right. He will bring me out into the light; I will see his righteousness.
Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy.
Why?
Righteous men wait for God, but the evil on wait to shed blood.
The human scene is black, but hope remains because Micah knows his God.
With God there is yet light. He may still be relied on.
His promise will not fail. He will build again. He will deliver again. In his compassionate live he will forgive again.
So Micah will watch and wait for shepherd his people, doing miracle for them as of old, showing compassion.
Watchmen : The prophets were posted as watchmen to warn of coming judgment.
O Lord! No one like you, for your mercy, your love and your righteousness.
How?
I wait for the Lord , my Savior. He will transform my heart, he is my Lord, I am a sinner.
Saturday, April 5, 2014
Love kindness
Micah 6:1-16
How have I wearied you? Answer me! God always loves me.
Remember the history of Israel and you may know the saving acts of the Lord.
With what shall I come before the Lord, and bow myself before God on high?
The Lord require of you to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?
Wicket people don't fear the name of God, so the Lord will strike them with a grievous blow, and making them desolate because of their sins.
God sets out his case, lays his charges, against his people.
There can be no substitute for love and loyalty and fair dealing. Though they may try to buy him off with extravagant offerings and impressive gifts, God sees his people's dishonesty, the false scales that he hates because they cheat the helpless. And he will punish sharp practice, violence and deceit.
Why?
All of the disaster came to Israel are because of their transgression and sins. God could not forget any longer the wickedness, violence, deceitful weights and mouth etc.
Don't they know what pleases him? It is so plain, so simple.
I will do justice to others in my heart and forget to love kindness.
How?
Do I justice? love kindness? and walk humbly with the Lord? I need to love kindness more anytime, don't forget what my altitude be - fear the Lord.
How have I wearied you? Answer me! God always loves me.
Remember the history of Israel and you may know the saving acts of the Lord.
With what shall I come before the Lord, and bow myself before God on high?
The Lord require of you to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?
Wicket people don't fear the name of God, so the Lord will strike them with a grievous blow, and making them desolate because of their sins.
God sets out his case, lays his charges, against his people.
There can be no substitute for love and loyalty and fair dealing. Though they may try to buy him off with extravagant offerings and impressive gifts, God sees his people's dishonesty, the false scales that he hates because they cheat the helpless. And he will punish sharp practice, violence and deceit.
Why?
All of the disaster came to Israel are because of their transgression and sins. God could not forget any longer the wickedness, violence, deceitful weights and mouth etc.
Don't they know what pleases him? It is so plain, so simple.
I will do justice to others in my heart and forget to love kindness.
How?
Do I justice? love kindness? and walk humbly with the Lord? I need to love kindness more anytime, don't forget what my altitude be - fear the Lord.
Friday, April 4, 2014
Pray for the people turn to the Lord before end of that Day
Micah 5:1-15
Bethlehem Ephrathan, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days. (He is the Jesus Christ.)
The remnant of Jacob shall be in the midst of many peoples like dew from the Lord, like showers on the grass, which delay not for a man nor wait for the children of man. Like lion among the beasts of the forest, when it goes through, treads down and tears in pieces, and there is none to deliver. -- the time is limited.
God will in anger and wrath executes vengeance on the nations that did not obey.
Micah speaks of a deliverer - the ultimate deliverer - who will come like David of old, from Bethlehem.
Historical perspectives blur, as so often in the prophets, and current events melt into those of the near and far distant future.
In the messianic peace, even the Assyrian will be overcome, but Judah too will be purified 'in that day'.
All that they have relied on in place of God will be destroyed: armies, defences, witchcraft and false gods.
Why?
God announce there will be a new ruler comes from Bethlehem who is Jesus Christ.
At the end day Jesus will judge this world, he will not wait for men and delay for a man.
Jesus Christ will be king of nations and executes vengeance on the nations.
How?
Jesus Christ is the king of kings, God's plan and God's way beyond my perspective and my way. What should I do is pray for the people who may turn to the Lord before end of that Day.
Bethlehem Ephrathan, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days. (He is the Jesus Christ.)
The remnant of Jacob shall be in the midst of many peoples like dew from the Lord, like showers on the grass, which delay not for a man nor wait for the children of man. Like lion among the beasts of the forest, when it goes through, treads down and tears in pieces, and there is none to deliver. -- the time is limited.
God will in anger and wrath executes vengeance on the nations that did not obey.
Micah speaks of a deliverer - the ultimate deliverer - who will come like David of old, from Bethlehem.
Historical perspectives blur, as so often in the prophets, and current events melt into those of the near and far distant future.
In the messianic peace, even the Assyrian will be overcome, but Judah too will be purified 'in that day'.
All that they have relied on in place of God will be destroyed: armies, defences, witchcraft and false gods.
Why?
God announce there will be a new ruler comes from Bethlehem who is Jesus Christ.
At the end day Jesus will judge this world, he will not wait for men and delay for a man.
Jesus Christ will be king of nations and executes vengeance on the nations.
How?
Jesus Christ is the king of kings, God's plan and God's way beyond my perspective and my way. What should I do is pray for the people who may turn to the Lord before end of that Day.
Arise and thresh
3/28/2014
Micah 4:1-13
“Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the temple of the God of Jacob. He will teach us his ways, so that we may walk in his paths.”
He will judge between many peoples and will settle disputes for strong nations far and wide.
All the nations may walk in the name of their gods, but we will walk in the name of the Lord our God for ever and ever.
But they do not know the thoughts of the Lord; they do not understand his plan, that he has gathered them like sheaves to the threshing floor. “Rise and thresh, Daughter Zion, for God will makes your horn iron, and God will make your hoofs bronze.
Why?
New Jerusalem, from which God's word goes out to all people, and to which the nations flock, in an era and plenty.
God will bring home a remnant of his people. Salvation-rescue and restoration- will come : but only on the other side of suffering, after the trauma of the Assyria invasion and the exile in Babylon. Then God will judge, not his people alone, but all the nations massed against them.
How?
Do not afraid, arise and thresh, Jesus Christ has conquer the dead and evil.
Micah 4:1-13
“Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the temple of the God of Jacob. He will teach us his ways, so that we may walk in his paths.”
He will judge between many peoples and will settle disputes for strong nations far and wide.
All the nations may walk in the name of their gods, but we will walk in the name of the Lord our God for ever and ever.
But they do not know the thoughts of the Lord; they do not understand his plan, that he has gathered them like sheaves to the threshing floor. “Rise and thresh, Daughter Zion, for God will makes your horn iron, and God will make your hoofs bronze.
Why?
New Jerusalem, from which God's word goes out to all people, and to which the nations flock, in an era and plenty.
God will bring home a remnant of his people. Salvation-rescue and restoration- will come : but only on the other side of suffering, after the trauma of the Assyria invasion and the exile in Babylon. Then God will judge, not his people alone, but all the nations massed against them.
How?
Do not afraid, arise and thresh, Jesus Christ has conquer the dead and evil.
Role of a Priest in this generation
Micah 3:1-12
2014-03-27
Micah 3:1-12
Role of a priest in this generation
You rulers of Israel. Should you not embrace justice, you who hate good and love evil; her priests teach for a price, and her prophets tell fortunes for money.
The Lord says: “As for the prophets who lead my people astray,
they proclaim ‘peace’ if they have something to eat, but prepare to wage war against anyone who refuses to feed them. Therefore night will come over you, without visions,and darkness, without divination.
Why?
The knows what the priests were doing. They serve people for their profit, instead of God's word and teaching people walk on God's way.
This world trust their own mind and power, they don't believe the Truth from Bible. For they can't see the Lord, they even don't try to verify. They use their knowledge to judge everything,include the God.
How?
Do my best to witness what and how God has done on me.
Ps. Came back from Japan Missionary Trip. (3/27/2014~4/3/2014)
Micah 3:1-12
Role of a priest in this generation
The Lord says: “As for the prophets who lead my people astray,
they proclaim ‘peace’ if they have something to eat, but prepare to wage war against anyone who refuses to feed them. Therefore night will come over you, without visions,and darkness, without divination.
Why?
The knows what the priests were doing. They serve people for their profit, instead of God's word and teaching people walk on God's way.
This world trust their own mind and power, they don't believe the Truth from Bible. For they can't see the Lord, they even don't try to verify. They use their knowledge to judge everything,include the God.
How?
Do my best to witness what and how God has done on me.
Ps. Came back from Japan Missionary Trip. (3/27/2014~4/3/2014)
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