Revelation5:1-5
A scroll with writing on both sides and sealed with seven seals. No one was found who was worthy to open the scroll or look inside.
The Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and is seven seals.
At this point John begins to see the things which 'must happen' in the future.
A scroll completely covered with writing, inside and out, and sealed with seven seals - the scroll that contains the world's destiny - must be opened. John is full of anguish that no one is found worthy. Then one of the elders calls his attention to 'the Lion from Judah's tribe': the Lion who won his victory as the slain Lamb.
Chapter 4 pictured God the creator. This chapter pictures God the Redeemer.
Why?
God let John know what will happen in the world.
God has the authority of world and heaven.
How?
Be rejoice and faithful, hope to the Lord Almighty.
Sunday, August 31, 2014
Saturday, August 30, 2014
Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is and is to come.
Revelation 4:1-11
John saw the throne in heaven.
There are 24 other thrones surrounding the throne and seated on them were 24 elders.
Before the throne, seven lamps were blazing. These are the seven spirits of God.
In the center, around the throne, were four living creatures, and they were covered with eyes. The first living creatures was like a lion, the second was like an ox, the third had a face like a man, the fourth was like a flying eagle. Each of the four creature had six wings. Day and nigh they never stop saying: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is and is to come."
Elders saying "You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being."
The scene and the perspective shift from earth to heaven.
The picture of the struggling churches fades before this sublime崇高 vision of the throne- the control centre of the universe- ringed by an emerald翡翠 rainbow.
The One who is seated there defies description. John can only say that he seems to be shot with diamond light, to glow red as a ruby.
Around him are the 'elders': possibly Israel's 12 patriarchs, plus apostles, but probably angelic beings who represent all God's faithful people.
Everything speaks of Gods power and glory, his utter faithfulness and purity.
Lightning and thunder speak of his awesomeness.
Four living creatures, all-seeing, represent the whole creation, ceaseless singing in honour of the almighty, the Holy One, 'who was, who is, who is to come.'
The elder join them to worship the eternal Lord of life.
Four living creature, similar, but not identical to Ezekiel's cherubim (Ezekiel 1 and 10) same as man, lion, eagle and ox or cherub.
Why?
The throne in the heaven is honor , glory and purity. He is the Lord Almighty, he is worthy to receive glory, honor and power.
John cannot describe the glory of the throne so he describe it seem like light of emerald, ruby and diamond.
The Lord who was, who is and who is to come. He is the everlasting God.
How?
Worship the Lord God Almighty!
John saw the throne in heaven.
There are 24 other thrones surrounding the throne and seated on them were 24 elders.
Before the throne, seven lamps were blazing. These are the seven spirits of God.
In the center, around the throne, were four living creatures, and they were covered with eyes. The first living creatures was like a lion, the second was like an ox, the third had a face like a man, the fourth was like a flying eagle. Each of the four creature had six wings. Day and nigh they never stop saying: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is and is to come."
Elders saying "You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being."
The scene and the perspective shift from earth to heaven.
The picture of the struggling churches fades before this sublime崇高 vision of the throne- the control centre of the universe- ringed by an emerald翡翠 rainbow.
The One who is seated there defies description. John can only say that he seems to be shot with diamond light, to glow red as a ruby.
Around him are the 'elders': possibly Israel's 12 patriarchs, plus apostles, but probably angelic beings who represent all God's faithful people.
Everything speaks of Gods power and glory, his utter faithfulness and purity.
Lightning and thunder speak of his awesomeness.
Four living creatures, all-seeing, represent the whole creation, ceaseless singing in honour of the almighty, the Holy One, 'who was, who is, who is to come.'
The elder join them to worship the eternal Lord of life.
Four living creature, similar, but not identical to Ezekiel's cherubim (Ezekiel 1 and 10) same as man, lion, eagle and ox or cherub.
Why?
The throne in the heaven is honor , glory and purity. He is the Lord Almighty, he is worthy to receive glory, honor and power.
John cannot describe the glory of the throne so he describe it seem like light of emerald, ruby and diamond.
The Lord who was, who is and who is to come. He is the everlasting God.
How?
Worship the Lord God Almighty!
Friday, August 29, 2014
Earnest and repent! open the door, let Jesus come in my daily life.
Revelation 3:14-22
To Laodicea church
Neither cold nor hot, because your are lukewarm, I am about to spit you out of my mouth.
You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing. But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.
Come to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve藥膏to put on your eyes, so you can see.
Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. Of anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.
The worst case of all seven is a church so self-satisfied as to be totally blind to its true condition.
It is so far from what it should be that Jesus stands outside, knocking for admittance to the lives of individuals who call themselves Christians.
This letter is full of local colour. Banking and the manufacture of black woollen clothing made laodicea affluent富裕. The town was proud of its medical school, and renowned for a special ointment 軟膏 for sore eyes. Laodicea's water supply was channelled from hop springs some distance away, reaching the town tepid不溫不火.
The church is like its water - lukewarm. There is nothing to commend it.
Why?
Really worst condition is who can not see what he really is. Like blind can not see his self-satisfied.
Rich - poor, eye ointment - blind, black woollen - naked
Be earnest and repent. Jesus is standing outside and knocking, open the door let Jesus come in my daily life!
How?
Earnest and repent! open the door, let Jesus come in my daily life.
To Laodicea church
Neither cold nor hot, because your are lukewarm, I am about to spit you out of my mouth.
You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing. But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.
Come to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve藥膏to put on your eyes, so you can see.
Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. Of anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.
The worst case of all seven is a church so self-satisfied as to be totally blind to its true condition.
It is so far from what it should be that Jesus stands outside, knocking for admittance to the lives of individuals who call themselves Christians.
This letter is full of local colour. Banking and the manufacture of black woollen clothing made laodicea affluent富裕. The town was proud of its medical school, and renowned for a special ointment 軟膏 for sore eyes. Laodicea's water supply was channelled from hop springs some distance away, reaching the town tepid不溫不火.
The church is like its water - lukewarm. There is nothing to commend it.
Why?
Really worst condition is who can not see what he really is. Like blind can not see his self-satisfied.
Rich - poor, eye ointment - blind, black woollen - naked
Be earnest and repent. Jesus is standing outside and knocking, open the door let Jesus come in my daily life!
How?
Earnest and repent! open the door, let Jesus come in my daily life.
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Faithful in God's work and keep his words
Revelation 3:7-13
Letter to Philadelphia
Who is holy and true, who holds the key of David, What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open.
Obey the words of God:
I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my words and have not denied my name. I will keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole word to test those who live on the earth.
Encouragement:
I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.
Him who overcomes I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will he leave it.
Philadelphia is present-day Alacehir in Turkey. This letter, like the letter to Smyrna, contain no word of blame.
Why?
Destroyed by earth quake.
Key of David: Isaiah 22:21-22 , power and truth.
To judge by these letters, it is not the biggest, most impressive-looking churches, or those with most prestige威望, which are necessarily in best spiritual shape. Christ opens the door for effective work, not to those who are strong, but to those who are faithful.
How?
The blessing will come to church for effective work and Christ opens the door, so as to a Christian who are faithful in God's work and keep his words.
Letter to Philadelphia
Who is holy and true, who holds the key of David, What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open.
Obey the words of God:
I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my words and have not denied my name. I will keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole word to test those who live on the earth.
Encouragement:
I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.
Him who overcomes I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will he leave it.
Philadelphia is present-day Alacehir in Turkey. This letter, like the letter to Smyrna, contain no word of blame.
Why?
Destroyed by earth quake.
Key of David: Isaiah 22:21-22 , power and truth.
To judge by these letters, it is not the biggest, most impressive-looking churches, or those with most prestige威望, which are necessarily in best spiritual shape. Christ opens the door for effective work, not to those who are strong, but to those who are faithful.
How?
The blessing will come to church for effective work and Christ opens the door, so as to a Christian who are faithful in God's work and keep his words.
Philadelphia was the least distinguished of the cities of the Seven Churches. It was the latest to take on importance as a city, and only a few ruins are visible now. However, on the positive side, it was located on the outer edge of Hellenistic civilization and the Christian faith, and therefore had grave responsibilities for spreading the thought patterns and activities of these transforming powers. Furthermore, Philadelphia andSmyrna were the only two churches among the Seven about which nothing bad was said by John.
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Don't be self-satisfaction, do the best in the sight of God!
Revelation 3:1-6
Letter to Sardis
Worse:
You have a reputation of being alive, but your are dead.
Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for none of your deeds complete in the sight of my God.
What you have received and heard; obey it, and repent.
Good:
A few people who have not soiled their clothes. He who overcomes will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out his name from the book of life.
For all its reputation, the church at Sardis was dying on its feet. It is not opposition this church has to overcome but apathy, indifference and self-satisfaction.
Yet there are a few whose faith is untarnished.
Be watchful rather than Wake up!
How?
Don't be self-satisfaction, do the best in the sight of God!
Letter to Sardis
Worse:
You have a reputation of being alive, but your are dead.
Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for none of your deeds complete in the sight of my God.
What you have received and heard; obey it, and repent.
Good:
A few people who have not soiled their clothes. He who overcomes will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out his name from the book of life.
For all its reputation, the church at Sardis was dying on its feet. It is not opposition this church has to overcome but apathy, indifference and self-satisfaction.
Yet there are a few whose faith is untarnished.
Be watchful rather than Wake up!
How?
Don't be self-satisfaction, do the best in the sight of God!
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
Hold on to what you have until Jesus come
Revelation 2:18-29
Letter to Thyatira
Good deed:
love and faith, your service and perseverance, and that you are now doing more than you did at first.
Against you:
Tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess. By her teaching she misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols.
Warning:
Do not hold to her teaching and have not learned Satan's so-called deep secrets. Jesus will not impose強加 any other burden on you. Only hold on to what you have until Jesus come.
To him who overcomes and does my will to the end, I will give authority over the nations.
Thyatira was a town with many skilled workers, and the trade guides held meals associated with pagan worship (food offered to idols)
Those who remain faithful are promised Christ power and his presence.
Why?
This was another very mixed church. In many ways it was healthy. But an influential woman in the fellowship is advocating easy compromise with the immoral, idolatrous pagan world. And many have fallen in with her way of thinking.
There are 'Christian' who have plunged deep into evil - perhaps to demon-strata階層 their moral superiority; perhaps because they make a false separation between soul and body.
Deep secret may lead people into burden and fall into demon.
God doesn't impose any other burden on us, following the word of Lord with joy and peace!
How?
Hold on to what you have until Jesus come. Keep our love and faith, service and perseverance to the Lord!
Letter to Thyatira
Good deed:
love and faith, your service and perseverance, and that you are now doing more than you did at first.
Against you:
Tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess. By her teaching she misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols.
Warning:
Do not hold to her teaching and have not learned Satan's so-called deep secrets. Jesus will not impose強加 any other burden on you. Only hold on to what you have until Jesus come.
To him who overcomes and does my will to the end, I will give authority over the nations.
Thyatira was a town with many skilled workers, and the trade guides held meals associated with pagan worship (food offered to idols)
Those who remain faithful are promised Christ power and his presence.
Why?
This was another very mixed church. In many ways it was healthy. But an influential woman in the fellowship is advocating easy compromise with the immoral, idolatrous pagan world. And many have fallen in with her way of thinking.
There are 'Christian' who have plunged deep into evil - perhaps to demon-strata階層 their moral superiority; perhaps because they make a false separation between soul and body.
Deep secret may lead people into burden and fall into demon.
God doesn't impose any other burden on us, following the word of Lord with joy and peace!
How?
Hold on to what you have until Jesus come. Keep our love and faith, service and perseverance to the Lord!
Monday, August 25, 2014
Faithful witness, but false teaching
Revelation 2:8-17
Letter to Smyrna
Weakness:
Your afflictions and your poverty - yet you are rich
The slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan-- Those Jews who harass騷擾 the church are not God's people.
Encouragement:
Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer.
Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.
Church Smyrna was poverty-stricken災區- but rich in all that mattered. Jesus' word to them is all encouragement.
He has set a definite limit to their suffering - and he holds out to them the gift of life.
-----------------------------------------
Letter to Pergamum
Goodness:
You remain true to my name
You did not renounce放棄 your faith in me, even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city-where Satan lives
Weakness:
Where you live - where Satan has his throne.
Against them:
You have people there who hold to the teaching of Balaam, entice the Israelites to sin by eating food sacrificed to idols and by committing sexual immorality.
You also have those who teaching of the Nicolitans.
Warning:
Repent, otherwise, I will soon come to you and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.
At Pergamum the church had made a brave stand despite external pressure, but some embers are addicted to false teaching. As a result, old pagan practices are creeping in. Their choice is to repent or have Christ's fight against them.
Satan's throne: Pergamum was the principal centre of emperor- worship in the region.
Why?
False teaching may lead people astray and fall to sin, so it is more important matter.
Faithful witness, but have false teaching is like some churches in the name of Jesus Christ now.
How?
Stand firm in worse environment but have to walk in the right way of the Lord!
Be Hold on the truth and love of the God
Letter to Smyrna
Weakness:
Your afflictions and your poverty - yet you are rich
The slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan-- Those Jews who harass騷擾 the church are not God's people.
Encouragement:
Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer.
Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.
Church Smyrna was poverty-stricken災區- but rich in all that mattered. Jesus' word to them is all encouragement.
He has set a definite limit to their suffering - and he holds out to them the gift of life.
-----------------------------------------
Letter to Pergamum
Goodness:
You remain true to my name
You did not renounce放棄 your faith in me, even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city-where Satan lives
Weakness:
Where you live - where Satan has his throne.
Against them:
You have people there who hold to the teaching of Balaam, entice the Israelites to sin by eating food sacrificed to idols and by committing sexual immorality.
You also have those who teaching of the Nicolitans.
Warning:
Repent, otherwise, I will soon come to you and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.
At Pergamum the church had made a brave stand despite external pressure, but some embers are addicted to false teaching. As a result, old pagan practices are creeping in. Their choice is to repent or have Christ's fight against them.
Satan's throne: Pergamum was the principal centre of emperor- worship in the region.
Why?
False teaching may lead people astray and fall to sin, so it is more important matter.
Faithful witness, but have false teaching is like some churches in the name of Jesus Christ now.
How?
Stand firm in worse environment but have to walk in the right way of the Lord!
Be Hold on the truth and love of the God
Sunday, August 24, 2014
Forsaken your first love.
Revelation 2:1-7
Letter to church in Ephesus.
Merit:
1)Cannot tolerate wicked men, 2)tested those who claim to be apostles but are not and found them false. 3)have persevered and have endured hardships for Jesus name and have not grown weary 4)hate the practices of the Nicolaitans
Weakness:
Forsaken your first love. Remember the height from which you have fallen!
Action:
Repent and do the things you did at first.
The letters are intended to meet the needs of real churches at Ephesus and in the surrounding area, but they also deal 'with topics which have relevance to God's people at all times and in all places'
They follow a set pattern. The greeting is followed by a particular description of Christ. His 'I know...' commends what is good about the church.
In five out of the seven cases this is followed by a criticism, and a warning.
Each letter closes with a plea- 'If you have ears, then listen...' - and a promise. In the first three letters the plea comes first, in the last four, the promise.
Why?
Too much justice but forgot the love.
The church at Ephesus was firmly established and spiritually discerning. It had endurance, but their love is not what it had been. They need to repent, for a church without love is no church.
Niolatains: Unknown outside this book. Their abhorrent可惡 behaviour sprang竄出 from false teaching, which had infiltrated滲透 the church at Pergamum.
Church needs love, for Jesus Christ is love. Justice is needed also! Love is the essential element to a church.
God knows everything in churches, and in these world! God has his plan and love to all of us.
How?
Am I love others? May the love from the Lord leads my way and do the right things that please the Lord!
Letter to church in Ephesus.
Merit:
1)Cannot tolerate wicked men, 2)tested those who claim to be apostles but are not and found them false. 3)have persevered and have endured hardships for Jesus name and have not grown weary 4)hate the practices of the Nicolaitans
Weakness:
Forsaken your first love. Remember the height from which you have fallen!
Action:
Repent and do the things you did at first.
The letters are intended to meet the needs of real churches at Ephesus and in the surrounding area, but they also deal 'with topics which have relevance to God's people at all times and in all places'
They follow a set pattern. The greeting is followed by a particular description of Christ. His 'I know...' commends what is good about the church.
In five out of the seven cases this is followed by a criticism, and a warning.
Each letter closes with a plea- 'If you have ears, then listen...' - and a promise. In the first three letters the plea comes first, in the last four, the promise.
Why?
Too much justice but forgot the love.
The church at Ephesus was firmly established and spiritually discerning. It had endurance, but their love is not what it had been. They need to repent, for a church without love is no church.
Niolatains: Unknown outside this book. Their abhorrent可惡 behaviour sprang竄出 from false teaching, which had infiltrated滲透 the church at Pergamum.
Church needs love, for Jesus Christ is love. Justice is needed also! Love is the essential element to a church.
God knows everything in churches, and in these world! God has his plan and love to all of us.
How?
Am I love others? May the love from the Lord leads my way and do the right things that please the Lord!
Saturday, August 23, 2014
Angel is the essential spirit of each church; Revelation
Revelation 1:9-20
John saw one like a son of man. Jesus looks like the Lord in Old Testaments.
He is the First and the Last. He is the Living One; He was dead, and behold He is alive for ever and ever! He hold the keys of death and Hades.
Write what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later.
The mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand and of the seven golden lampstands is this: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.
John's Revelation takes the form of a letter 'to the seven churches in the province of Asia.
The focus, from the outset, is on Jesus Christ: his death which 'freed us from our sin,' his resurrection, his kingly rule, his coming again in glory
When God's spirit came upon him on the Lord's day - the visions he was to write down and sent to the churches.
The radiant figure 'like a man' with its echoes of Daniel 7 and 10, is Christ himself, the Master of life and death and human destiny.
Patmos: A small Greek island off the west coast of Turkey
Mystery: is the secret meaning which Christ makes plain and no human being could have guessed. Some see 'angles' as a reference to pastors, some to guardian angels. But the best interpretation, in the light of what follows, is ' the essential spirit' of each church.
Why?
John saw Jesus in front of him, and his mission is write down what he saw and what he be told.
God's Churches has star, is their angle as their symbol and spirit. Church like lamp stand to lighten this dark world.
Jesus will come again with glory and Jesus let us know that the mystery is near and he will reign and judge all.
How?
Church is lamp stand in the world now, there is a spirit for each church which is from the Holy Spirit. Jesus will come with glory so we have hope and be strong to be his witness.
John saw one like a son of man. Jesus looks like the Lord in Old Testaments.
He is the First and the Last. He is the Living One; He was dead, and behold He is alive for ever and ever! He hold the keys of death and Hades.
Write what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later.
The mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand and of the seven golden lampstands is this: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.
John's Revelation takes the form of a letter 'to the seven churches in the province of Asia.
The focus, from the outset, is on Jesus Christ: his death which 'freed us from our sin,' his resurrection, his kingly rule, his coming again in glory
When God's spirit came upon him on the Lord's day - the visions he was to write down and sent to the churches.
The radiant figure 'like a man' with its echoes of Daniel 7 and 10, is Christ himself, the Master of life and death and human destiny.
Patmos: A small Greek island off the west coast of Turkey
Mystery: is the secret meaning which Christ makes plain and no human being could have guessed. Some see 'angles' as a reference to pastors, some to guardian angels. But the best interpretation, in the light of what follows, is ' the essential spirit' of each church.
Why?
John saw Jesus in front of him, and his mission is write down what he saw and what he be told.
God's Churches has star, is their angle as their symbol and spirit. Church like lamp stand to lighten this dark world.
Jesus will come again with glory and Jesus let us know that the mystery is near and he will reign and judge all.
How?
Church is lamp stand in the world now, there is a spirit for each church which is from the Holy Spirit. Jesus will come with glory so we have hope and be strong to be his witness.
Friday, August 22, 2014
Blessed is the one who read the words of this prophecy and who take it to heart; Revlation 1
Revelation 1:1-8
Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.
He made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father.
"I am the Alpha and the Omega, "says the Lord God, "Who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty."
John makes great use of the number seven, which usually in this book stands for completeness, perfection. Here the number is also literal.
The full title of this book is "The Revelation to John'. It is the only 'apocalyptice' writing included in the New Testament. Jewish apocalypses were written in time of crisis. They encourage readers by looking at the 'big picture' of human history and focusing on the end of the world when God will reign supreme in peace and justice. Many of the things that modern readers find most difficult about the book of Revelation are features of this kind of writing - the use, for example of
vision; symbols; Old Testament 'echoes'; numbers which carry special meaning.
Even those who fully appreciate the richness of symbol still have to wrestle with the problem of what John meant his readers to understand from the images he chooses.
The whole focus of Revelation is on Jesus. John says his book is a record of the events that Jesus Christ revealed to him. His first vision is of Christ. It is Christ - the Lion of Judah, the Lamb of sacrifice- who breaks the seals on the scroll which marks the beginning of God's final judgment. The redeemed are those follow the Lamb, God's people, the citizens of the new Jerusalem - the bride of the Lamb - are those whose names are written in the Lamb's 'book of life'. And Revelation closes with the repeated promised of Jesus. 'I am coming soon.'
Why?
We do not know God's timetable or concept of time. The word serves to remind us to be ready.
The Lord stands forever from the beginning to the end of everything.
We are the servant, the nation and the priest of Jesus Christ and Father
How?
Blessed is the one who read the words of this prophecy and who take it to heart
Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.
He made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father.
"I am the Alpha and the Omega, "says the Lord God, "Who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty."
John makes great use of the number seven, which usually in this book stands for completeness, perfection. Here the number is also literal.
The full title of this book is "The Revelation to John'. It is the only 'apocalyptice' writing included in the New Testament. Jewish apocalypses were written in time of crisis. They encourage readers by looking at the 'big picture' of human history and focusing on the end of the world when God will reign supreme in peace and justice. Many of the things that modern readers find most difficult about the book of Revelation are features of this kind of writing - the use, for example of
vision; symbols; Old Testament 'echoes'; numbers which carry special meaning.
Even those who fully appreciate the richness of symbol still have to wrestle with the problem of what John meant his readers to understand from the images he chooses.
The whole focus of Revelation is on Jesus. John says his book is a record of the events that Jesus Christ revealed to him. His first vision is of Christ. It is Christ - the Lion of Judah, the Lamb of sacrifice- who breaks the seals on the scroll which marks the beginning of God's final judgment. The redeemed are those follow the Lamb, God's people, the citizens of the new Jerusalem - the bride of the Lamb - are those whose names are written in the Lamb's 'book of life'. And Revelation closes with the repeated promised of Jesus. 'I am coming soon.'
Why?
We do not know God's timetable or concept of time. The word serves to remind us to be ready.
The Lord stands forever from the beginning to the end of everything.
We are the servant, the nation and the priest of Jesus Christ and Father
How?
Blessed is the one who read the words of this prophecy and who take it to heart
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Mercy is the Lord
2 Samuel 24:14-25
The Lord relented concerning the disaster and said to the
angel who was afflicting the people, “Enough! Withdraw your hand.”
David built an alter to the Lord. Araunah wanted to devote
his threshing floor and oxen, but David don’t like sacrifice to the Lord burnt
offerings that cost him nothing.
Why?
God has mercy to his people, Israel, but there were seven
thousand of the people from Dan to Beersheba died. This is the punishment of
the Lord to David.
The Lord has mercy as David mentioned when he chose the way
of punishment to his sin. God did not pour more disaster to David.
How?
Honest repent may earn the mercy of the Lord, for God is
mercy and righteousness.
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Reliance on God is better than reliance on men. Mercy of the Lord is great!
2 Samuel 24:1-14
It was Satan rose up against Israel and incited David (1 Chronicles 21), here is the Lord burned against Israel, and he incited David against them.
Go and take a census of Israel and Judah.
Job suggested to the king,'Why does my lord the king want to do such a thing.'
Enroll the fighting men took 9 months and 20 days, Joab reported the number of the fighting men in Israel there were eight hundred thousand able-bodies men who could handle a sword, and in Judah five hundred thousand.
David was conscience-stricken after he had counted the fighting men, he answered to Gad the prophet, I am in deep distress, let us fall into the hands of the Lord, for his mercy is great, but do not let me fall into the hands of men.
Why?
It is not clear why it was wrong to take the census. Perhaps it indicated reliance on numbers, instead of on God.
The Chronicles- perhaps conscious that his readers may have a problem with God first inciting David to take the census then punishing him for doing so- has Satan doing the inciting.
God permitted Satan make a testimony to David, David was proud to his numerous fighting men.
How?
Instead of fall into the hands of men, it is better fall into the hands of the Lord, for his mercy is great!
Reliance on God is better than reliance on men. Mercy of the Lord is great!
It was Satan rose up against Israel and incited David (1 Chronicles 21), here is the Lord burned against Israel, and he incited David against them.
Go and take a census of Israel and Judah.
Job suggested to the king,'Why does my lord the king want to do such a thing.'
Enroll the fighting men took 9 months and 20 days, Joab reported the number of the fighting men in Israel there were eight hundred thousand able-bodies men who could handle a sword, and in Judah five hundred thousand.
David was conscience-stricken after he had counted the fighting men, he answered to Gad the prophet, I am in deep distress, let us fall into the hands of the Lord, for his mercy is great, but do not let me fall into the hands of men.
Why?
It is not clear why it was wrong to take the census. Perhaps it indicated reliance on numbers, instead of on God.
The Chronicles- perhaps conscious that his readers may have a problem with God first inciting David to take the census then punishing him for doing so- has Satan doing the inciting.
God permitted Satan make a testimony to David, David was proud to his numerous fighting men.
How?
Instead of fall into the hands of men, it is better fall into the hands of the Lord, for his mercy is great!
Reliance on God is better than reliance on men. Mercy of the Lord is great!
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
The Lord brought about a great victory
2 Samuel 23:8-39
First three mighty men of David: Josheb-Basshebeth, Eleazar and Shammah.
Another three mighty men , leader is Abishai, and Benaiah.
The Lord brought about a great victory.
And there are thirty mighty men in troop of David. In 37 includes Urih the Hittite.
The exploits of "The Three" against the Philistines are followed by an incident from the campaign described in 5:17-25
Then come the exploits of two leaders (Abishai, leader of "The Thirty" and Banaiah, leader of the Philistine mercenaries), followed by a list of the special guard.
Why?
The group was probably formed at Ziklag, and helped to put David on the throne. More than 30 are listed - those killed(e.g. Asahel, Uriah) were replaced by others
Bethlehem was David's home town.
The victory in battle David got the help from those mighty men.
David walked on the way of the Lord, so the blessing with him and God arranged many mighty men to help him. God destroy the enemy already!
How?
Victory is belong to the Lord! God is the fountain of blessing and peace!
First three mighty men of David: Josheb-Basshebeth, Eleazar and Shammah.
Another three mighty men , leader is Abishai, and Benaiah.
The Lord brought about a great victory.
And there are thirty mighty men in troop of David. In 37 includes Urih the Hittite.
The exploits of "The Three" against the Philistines are followed by an incident from the campaign described in 5:17-25
Then come the exploits of two leaders (Abishai, leader of "The Thirty" and Banaiah, leader of the Philistine mercenaries), followed by a list of the special guard.
Why?
The group was probably formed at Ziklag, and helped to put David on the throne. More than 30 are listed - those killed(e.g. Asahel, Uriah) were replaced by others
Bethlehem was David's home town.
The victory in battle David got the help from those mighty men.
David walked on the way of the Lord, so the blessing with him and God arranged many mighty men to help him. God destroy the enemy already!
How?
Victory is belong to the Lord! God is the fountain of blessing and peace!
Monday, August 18, 2014
Rules in the fear of God
2 Samuel 23:1-7
When one rules over men in righteousness, when he rules in the fear of God, he is like the light of morning at sunrise on a cloudless morning, like the brightness after rain that bring the grass from the earth.
These may be the last word's the singer of Israel's psalms' set down in poetry.
His thoughts centre on what makes a good ruler, on his own standing before God, and on the promised dynasty - a fitting close to the life of the king who for all his faults was 'a man after God's own heart'.一個接近合適的國王，誰在他所有的缺點是跟隨在神的心之後。
Why?
Righteousness is the basic requirement to a ruler. A ruler in the fear of God like the light of morning at sunrise give men hope and joy.
How?
Fear the Lord is blessing!
When one rules over men in righteousness, when he rules in the fear of God, he is like the light of morning at sunrise on a cloudless morning, like the brightness after rain that bring the grass from the earth.
These may be the last word's the singer of Israel's psalms' set down in poetry.
His thoughts centre on what makes a good ruler, on his own standing before God, and on the promised dynasty - a fitting close to the life of the king who for all his faults was 'a man after God's own heart'.一個接近合適的國王，誰在他所有的缺點是跟隨在神的心之後。
Why?
Righteousness is the basic requirement to a ruler. A ruler in the fear of God like the light of morning at sunrise give men hope and joy.
How?
Fear the Lord is blessing!
Sunday, August 17, 2014
I will sing the praise of your holy name
2 Samuel 22:38-51
The Lord lives! Praise be to my Rock! Exalted be my God, the Rock, my Savior!
He is the God who avenges me,who puts the nations under me,who sets me free from my enemies.
You exalted me above my foes; from a violent man you rescued me.
The Lord lives! Praise be to my Rock! Exalted be my God, the Rock, my Savior!
He is the God who avenges me,who puts the nations under me,who sets me free from my enemies.
You exalted me above my foes; from a violent man you rescued me.
Therefore I will praise you, Lord, among the nations; I will sing the praises of your name.
He shows unfailing kindness to his anointed,to David and his descendants foreverWhy?
Avenge is God who do it for me, for he is my savior, he is righteousness.
The Lord save us from violent men, like David has been saved.
Praise Lord among the nations, so as to preach gospel around the world.
God's unfailing kindness to his anointed one, Jesus Christ and all his followers.
How?
My God lives! I will praise you, Lord, among the nations; I will sing the praises of your name.
Avenge is God who do it for me, for he is my savior, he is righteousness.
The Lord save us from violent men, like David has been saved.
Praise Lord among the nations, so as to preach gospel around the world.
God's unfailing kindness to his anointed one, Jesus Christ and all his followers.
How?
My God lives! I will praise you, Lord, among the nations; I will sing the praises of your name.
Saturday, August 16, 2014
Lord, are my lamp; the Lord turns my darkness into light
2 Samuel 22:21-37
The Lord has dealt with me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands he has rewarded me.
For I have kept the ways of the Lord; I am not guilty of turning from my God.
The Lord has rewarded me according to my righteousness, according to my cleanness in his sight.
To the faithful you show yourself faithful, to the blameless you show yourself blameless, to the pure you show yourself pure, but to the devious you show yourself shrewd.
As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him.
You, Lord, are my lamp; the Lord turns my darkness into light.
Why?
David expresses the characters of the Lord he met.
God is righteousness and mercy.
My God, his way is perfect so I will obey him.
How?
Listen to God, obey his words and pray to the Lord, Praise be to the Lord!
The Lord has dealt with me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands he has rewarded me.
For I have kept the ways of the Lord; I am not guilty of turning from my God.
The Lord has rewarded me according to my righteousness, according to my cleanness in his sight.
To the faithful you show yourself faithful, to the blameless you show yourself blameless, to the pure you show yourself pure, but to the devious you show yourself shrewd.
As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him.
You, Lord, are my lamp; the Lord turns my darkness into light.
Why?
David expresses the characters of the Lord he met.
God is righteousness and mercy.
My God, his way is perfect so I will obey him.
How?
Listen to God, obey his words and pray to the Lord, Praise be to the Lord!
Friday, August 15, 2014
Call to the Lord in my distress
2 Samuel 22:1-20
The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer.
In my distress I called to the Lord; I called out to my God. From his temple he heard my voice; my cry came to this ears.
The earth trembled and quaked, the foundations of the heavens shook; they trembled because he was angry. Smoke rose from his nostrils; consuming fire came from his mouth burning cols blazed out of it.
He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me.
This is virtually identical with Psalm 18, and can be compared with Mose's song in Deuteronomy 32. It belongs to the period of David' great early victories.
Why?
Rock is firm stand that won't sinking down.
Fortress is strong wall to protect from the attack of enemies.
Deliverer is life savior who is the Lord, Jesus Christ.
So when in my distress I call to my Lord.
When Lord is angry no one can stand before him.
How?
Call to the Lord in my distress, he is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer.
The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer.
In my distress I called to the Lord; I called out to my God. From his temple he heard my voice; my cry came to this ears.
The earth trembled and quaked, the foundations of the heavens shook; they trembled because he was angry. Smoke rose from his nostrils; consuming fire came from his mouth burning cols blazed out of it.
He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me.
This is virtually identical with Psalm 18, and can be compared with Mose's song in Deuteronomy 32. It belongs to the period of David' great early victories.
Why?
Rock is firm stand that won't sinking down.
Fortress is strong wall to protect from the attack of enemies.
Deliverer is life savior who is the Lord, Jesus Christ.
So when in my distress I call to my Lord.
When Lord is angry no one can stand before him.
How?
Call to the Lord in my distress, he is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer.
Thursday, August 14, 2014
Seek the face of the Lord for the bless
2 Samuel 21:1-22
During the reign of David, there was a famine for three successive years; so David sought the face of the Lord. The Lord said, "It is on account of Saul and his blood-stained house; it is because he put the Gibeonites to death."
What shall I do for you? How shall I make amends so that you will bless the Lord's inheritance?
David brought the bones of Saul and his son Jonathan from there, and the bones of those who had been killed and exposed were gathered up. After that, God answered prayer in behalf of the land.
Probably precede Mephibosheth's welcome at court. The story of Israel's pact with Gibeon is told in Joshua 9:3-27, Saul had apparently broken the treaty, despite close family connections with the city(1 Chronicle 8:29)
Why?
That you may bless: and so remove the curse that brought the famine
The Hebrew does not specify the manner of death, despite some translations.
Merab: The daughter who had been promised to David as wife
Rizpah may have been there as long as six months. The coming of rain brought an end to the famine, and to the curse, leaving David free to act.
David had any problem he will ask to the Lord to know the reason.
How?
God answer prayer in behalf of the land where there is not innocent blood shed in the land. Only the Lord may bless us!
During the reign of David, there was a famine for three successive years; so David sought the face of the Lord. The Lord said, "It is on account of Saul and his blood-stained house; it is because he put the Gibeonites to death."
What shall I do for you? How shall I make amends so that you will bless the Lord's inheritance?
David brought the bones of Saul and his son Jonathan from there, and the bones of those who had been killed and exposed were gathered up. After that, God answered prayer in behalf of the land.
Probably precede Mephibosheth's welcome at court. The story of Israel's pact with Gibeon is told in Joshua 9:3-27, Saul had apparently broken the treaty, despite close family connections with the city(1 Chronicle 8:29)
Why?
That you may bless: and so remove the curse that brought the famine
The Hebrew does not specify the manner of death, despite some translations.
Merab: The daughter who had been promised to David as wife
Rizpah may have been there as long as six months. The coming of rain brought an end to the famine, and to the curse, leaving David free to act.
David had any problem he will ask to the Lord to know the reason.
How?
God answer prayer in behalf of the land where there is not innocent blood shed in the land. Only the Lord may bless us!
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
Wise woman to a commander
2 Samuel 20:14-26
A wise woman resolved the city of Abel Beth Macah. She called from the city to speak with Joab.
'We are the peaceful and faithful in Israel. You are trying to destroy a city that is a mother in Israel. Why do you want to swallow up the Lord's inheritance?'
Joab replied, "Far be it from me! This is not the case. A men named Sheba had lifted up his hand against the king. Hand over this one man, and I'll withdraw from the city."
Then the woman went to all the people with her wise advice, and they cut off the head of Sheba son of Bicri and threw it to Joab. Joab sounded the trumpet, and his men dispersed from the city.
Note the smallest of the king's inner cabinet: this is a monarchy without a bureaucracy. Contrast Solomon's vast array of officials.
Why?
Wise woman saved her city without lost lives and properties. And they are the people Israel and it is belong to the nation of the Lord.
How?
Wise man solved battle with mouth without war!
A wise woman resolved the city of Abel Beth Macah. She called from the city to speak with Joab.
'We are the peaceful and faithful in Israel. You are trying to destroy a city that is a mother in Israel. Why do you want to swallow up the Lord's inheritance?'
Joab replied, "Far be it from me! This is not the case. A men named Sheba had lifted up his hand against the king. Hand over this one man, and I'll withdraw from the city."
Then the woman went to all the people with her wise advice, and they cut off the head of Sheba son of Bicri and threw it to Joab. Joab sounded the trumpet, and his men dispersed from the city.
Note the smallest of the king's inner cabinet: this is a monarchy without a bureaucracy. Contrast Solomon's vast array of officials.
Why?
Wise woman saved her city without lost lives and properties. And they are the people Israel and it is belong to the nation of the Lord.
How?
Wise man solved battle with mouth without war!
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
History in the Bibel are revealed the coming king, Jesus Christ
2 Samuel 20:1-13
Sheba rebels against David, he sounded the trumpet and shouted, 'We have no share in David, no part in Jesse's son! Every man to his tent, O Israel!'
Despite the statement in verse 2, those who actively support Sheba in his revolt, when it comes to it, are few.
Joab pretended to welcome Amasa and took Amasa by the beard with his right hand to kiss him. Amasa was not on his guard against the dagger in Joab's hand, Joab killed Amasa.
These ten concubines Absalom had made his own. The consequence for them is dire可怕.
Why?
Joab is as quick to kill Amasa (a member of his own family) for his loss of command as he was to kill Abner, when his own position was threatened before.
In both cases his treachery背叛 is despicable卑鄙.
The kiss and the sword-trust bring to mind Judah's betrayal of Jesus. David did not forget, or forgive.
Sheba's claimed like a unbeliever to Jesus Christ who walk on his own way.
Rebellions came soon after David came back to Jerusalem when he didn't care the thought of Israel.
How?
All of the history in Bible are revealed the coming king, Jesus Christ!
Sheba rebels against David, he sounded the trumpet and shouted, 'We have no share in David, no part in Jesse's son! Every man to his tent, O Israel!'
Despite the statement in verse 2, those who actively support Sheba in his revolt, when it comes to it, are few.
Joab pretended to welcome Amasa and took Amasa by the beard with his right hand to kiss him. Amasa was not on his guard against the dagger in Joab's hand, Joab killed Amasa.
These ten concubines Absalom had made his own. The consequence for them is dire可怕.
Why?
Joab is as quick to kill Amasa (a member of his own family) for his loss of command as he was to kill Abner, when his own position was threatened before.
In both cases his treachery背叛 is despicable卑鄙.
The kiss and the sword-trust bring to mind Judah's betrayal of Jesus. David did not forget, or forgive.
Sheba's claimed like a unbeliever to Jesus Christ who walk on his own way.
Rebellions came soon after David came back to Jerusalem when he didn't care the thought of Israel.
How?
All of the history in Bible are revealed the coming king, Jesus Christ!
Monday, August 11, 2014
Unresolved dispute among the people of Israel
2 Samuel 19:31-43
Barzilai won't go cross over the Jordan with the king for he is 80 years old.
When the king crossed over to Gilgal, all the troops of Judah and half the troops of Israel had taken the king over.
Soon all the men of Israel were coming to the king and saying to him, "Why did our brothers, the men of Judah, steal the king away and bring him and his household across the Jordan, together with all his men?
But the men of Judah responded even more harshly than the men of Israel.
Why?
The dispute between the men of Judah and the ten tribes begins a rift which widens in Chapter 20 and will split the kingdom after Solomon's death.
It was David asked Judah come to invite him return to Jerusalem, and Israel had sent message to invite king return to Jerusalem.
Barzilai knew if he cross over Jordan with king is a burden to him and to the king, so he chose live in his own life.
Unresolved dispute may cause more troubles in the near future.
How?
Wise king cares his own relatives and his people and solve the dispute among his people.
Barzilai won't go cross over the Jordan with the king for he is 80 years old.
When the king crossed over to Gilgal, all the troops of Judah and half the troops of Israel had taken the king over.
Soon all the men of Israel were coming to the king and saying to him, "Why did our brothers, the men of Judah, steal the king away and bring him and his household across the Jordan, together with all his men?
But the men of Judah responded even more harshly than the men of Israel.
Why?
The dispute between the men of Judah and the ten tribes begins a rift which widens in Chapter 20 and will split the kingdom after Solomon's death.
It was David asked Judah come to invite him return to Jerusalem, and Israel had sent message to invite king return to Jerusalem.
Barzilai knew if he cross over Jordan with king is a burden to him and to the king, so he chose live in his own life.
Unresolved dispute may cause more troubles in the near future.
How?
Wise king cares his own relatives and his people and solve the dispute among his people.
Sunday, August 10, 2014
Mercy and righteousness king
2 Samuel 19:16-30
Shimei fell prostrate before the king asked for salvation from the king. David replied, "This day should anyone be put to death in Israel today? Do I not know that today I am king over Israel?" The king promised Shimei shall not die.
Mephibosheth, Saul's grandson, also went down to meet the king. He explained his servant Ziba betrayed him. He hoped David has arrived home safely, and he didn't care he and Ziba to divide the fields.
David is in effect punishing loyalty and rewarding rebellion.
Now the king is back in power, there are some who are anxious to find favour.
Why?
Shimei knew he will be put to death when David return to Jerusalem, so he beg the pardon from the king. Because David got the power is a joyful day so he let Shimei not die.
How?
Mercy king can gain the heart of his people even he has power over them. Our Lord is full of mercy and righteousness.
Shimei fell prostrate before the king asked for salvation from the king. David replied, "This day should anyone be put to death in Israel today? Do I not know that today I am king over Israel?" The king promised Shimei shall not die.
Mephibosheth, Saul's grandson, also went down to meet the king. He explained his servant Ziba betrayed him. He hoped David has arrived home safely, and he didn't care he and Ziba to divide the fields.
David is in effect punishing loyalty and rewarding rebellion.
Now the king is back in power, there are some who are anxious to find favour.
Why?
Shimei knew he will be put to death when David return to Jerusalem, so he beg the pardon from the king. Because David got the power is a joyful day so he let Shimei not die.
How?
Mercy king can gain the heart of his people even he has power over them. Our Lord is full of mercy and righteousness.
Saturday, August 9, 2014
Terrible grief and remorse blind a leader
2 Samuel 19:1-15
David listened the words of Joab took his seat in the gateway. When the men were told, "The king is sitting in the gateway," they all came before him.
David sent message to Zadok and Abiathar, the priest: "Why should you be the last to bring the king back to his palace.. you are my brothers, my own flesh and blood. And say to Amasa, 'Are you not my own flesh and blood? May God deal with me, be it ever so severely, if from now on you are not the commander of my army in place of Joab.'" He won over the hearts of all the men of Judah as though they were one man.
Why?
Terrible grief and remorse blind the king to the effect of his conduct on the people. Joab's harsh words bring him to his senses and save him from political disaster.
Judah had backed to Absalom. David's attempt to win them back, and his appointment of Amasa(Absalom's army commander, and his own nephew) in Joab's place leads to further trouble.
How?
Personal grief and remorse may blind a man. Resolving a political disaster needs wisdom advices. So we need the word of God and God's leading, wisdom and mercy.
David listened the words of Joab took his seat in the gateway. When the men were told, "The king is sitting in the gateway," they all came before him.
David sent message to Zadok and Abiathar, the priest: "Why should you be the last to bring the king back to his palace.. you are my brothers, my own flesh and blood. And say to Amasa, 'Are you not my own flesh and blood? May God deal with me, be it ever so severely, if from now on you are not the commander of my army in place of Joab.'" He won over the hearts of all the men of Judah as though they were one man.
Why?
Terrible grief and remorse blind the king to the effect of his conduct on the people. Joab's harsh words bring him to his senses and save him from political disaster.
Judah had backed to Absalom. David's attempt to win them back, and his appointment of Amasa(Absalom's army commander, and his own nephew) in Joab's place leads to further trouble.
How?
Personal grief and remorse may blind a man. Resolving a political disaster needs wisdom advices. So we need the word of God and God's leading, wisdom and mercy.
Friday, August 8, 2014
Appreciate my heavenly fther and earthly father brough me up!
2 Samuel 18:19-33
Joab knew that David anticipated Absalom be alive, so he don't want the messenger sent this bad news to David.
David mourns to his son Absalom died.
Ahimaaz and the Cushite: Joab choose the Sudanese/Ethiopian slave to take the bad news. The king would naturally have assumed that the priest's son brought good news.
Why?
Joab may also have been thinking of the fate of earlier messengers. But the direct hill-route proved slower than the route Ahimaaz took along the Jordan Valley.
Joab might thought that kill the enemy is more important than any other reasons.
David was loved his son, but he mistreated him for a while. To be a father should teaches and takes care of his children.
How?
Today is Chinese father's day, may I be a good father to my daughters. Appreciate my heavenly father and earthly father brought me up!
Joab knew that David anticipated Absalom be alive, so he don't want the messenger sent this bad news to David.
David mourns to his son Absalom died.
Ahimaaz and the Cushite: Joab choose the Sudanese/Ethiopian slave to take the bad news. The king would naturally have assumed that the priest's son brought good news.
Why?
Joab may also have been thinking of the fate of earlier messengers. But the direct hill-route proved slower than the route Ahimaaz took along the Jordan Valley.
Joab might thought that kill the enemy is more important than any other reasons.
David was loved his son, but he mistreated him for a while. To be a father should teaches and takes care of his children.
How?
Today is Chinese father's day, may I be a good father to my daughters. Appreciate my heavenly father and earthly father brought me up!
Thursday, August 7, 2014
God supports the one who is with the Lord
2 Samuel 18:1-18
Joab didn't listen to the word of David, he insisted to kill Absalom when he heard his message. Even his man reported he saw Absalom was hanging in an oak tree.
During his lifetime Absalom had taken a pillar and erected it in the King's Vally as a monument to himself, for he had no son to carry on the memory of his name.
It is called Absalom's Monument.
Why?
David's defeat of Absalom is God's victory.
Joab's orders are to spare David's son, but he is shrewd enough to see that only the death of the pretender- or the king- can settle the issue. David did not forgive Joab for Absalom's death.
It was ironic that the young man's beautiful hair should tangle in the oak and leave him a helpless prey.
How?
God is stands on the side who is with Him. David was prayed to the Lord even when he is distressed.
Joab didn't listen to the word of David, he insisted to kill Absalom when he heard his message. Even his man reported he saw Absalom was hanging in an oak tree.
During his lifetime Absalom had taken a pillar and erected it in the King's Vally as a monument to himself, for he had no son to carry on the memory of his name.
It is called Absalom's Monument.
Why?
David's defeat of Absalom is God's victory.
Joab's orders are to spare David's son, but he is shrewd enough to see that only the death of the pretender- or the king- can settle the issue. David did not forgive Joab for Absalom's death.
It was ironic that the young man's beautiful hair should tangle in the oak and leave him a helpless prey.
How?
God is stands on the side who is with Him. David was prayed to the Lord even when he is distressed.
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
The foresight to realize the consequences
2 Samuel 17:15-29
Meanwhile, in an episode that recalls Joshua 2 and Rahab's saving of the two spies, Jonathan and Ahimaaz (on the way to David with the information) escape discovery through a woman's protective action.
Their warning gives the king just enough time to escape: to a warm welcome and a good meal, at last, for his famished斷炊 men.
Mahaniam: A city belonging to Gad, east of the Jordan, in Gilead.
Amasa: His mother Abigail was David's half-sister. Joab was his cousin.
Why?
Ahithophel has the foresight to realize the probable consequences - hence his suicide.
How?
Who has the foresight to realize the consequences is the wise man. The consequences of sin is dead!
Meanwhile, in an episode that recalls Joshua 2 and Rahab's saving of the two spies, Jonathan and Ahimaaz (on the way to David with the information) escape discovery through a woman's protective action.
Their warning gives the king just enough time to escape: to a warm welcome and a good meal, at last, for his famished斷炊 men.
Mahaniam: A city belonging to Gad, east of the Jordan, in Gilead.
Amasa: His mother Abigail was David's half-sister. Joab was his cousin.
Why?
Ahithophel has the foresight to realize the probable consequences - hence his suicide.
How?
Who has the foresight to realize the consequences is the wise man. The consequences of sin is dead!
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
He is the sovereign Lord!
2 Samuel 17:1-23
Absalom and all the men of Israel said, “The advice of Hushai the Arkite is better than that of Ahithophel.” For the Lord had determined to frustrate the good advice of Ahithophel in order to bring disaster on Absalom.
Ahithophel's advice is to strike quickly, and only against the person of king- so avoiding civil war. But Hushai gains time for David by a scheme which appeals to Absalom's vanity虛榮.
Ahithophel has the foresight to realize the probable consequences - hence his suicide.
Why?
The writer points the message. The will of God works through human beings in the detail: David will be restored.
How?
Yes, the will of God works through human beings, why should we worry about! My hope is in hands of God! He is the sovereign Lord!
Absalom and all the men of Israel said, “The advice of Hushai the Arkite is better than that of Ahithophel.” For the Lord had determined to frustrate the good advice of Ahithophel in order to bring disaster on Absalom.
Ahithophel's advice is to strike quickly, and only against the person of king- so avoiding civil war. But Hushai gains time for David by a scheme which appeals to Absalom's vanity虛榮.
Ahithophel has the foresight to realize the probable consequences - hence his suicide.
Why?
The writer points the message. The will of God works through human beings in the detail: David will be restored.
How?
Yes, the will of God works through human beings, why should we worry about! My hope is in hands of God! He is the sovereign Lord!
Monday, August 4, 2014
Strategy of Ahithophel
2 Samuel 16:15-21
Ahithophel answered, “Sleep with your father’s concubines whom he left to take care of the palace. Then all Israel will hear that you have made yourself obnoxious to your father, and the hands of everyone with you will be more resolute.” So they pitched a tent for Absalom on the roof, and he slept with his father’s concubines in the sight of all Israel.
Now in those days the advice Ahithophel gave was like that of one who inquires of God. That was how both David and Absalom regarded all of Ahithophel’s advice.
V 20-23 provide an example of Ahithophel's political strategy.
Back in Jerusalem David's agent Hushai succeeds in convincing Absalom of his loyalty.
By taking over David's harem, Absalom will convince his followers that reconciliation with his father is impossible.
No king could forgive such a public insult. So it happened as Nathan had predicted.
V 20-23 provide an example of Ahithophel's political strategy.
Back in Jerusalem David's agent Hushai succeeds in convincing Absalom of his loyalty.
By taking over David's harem, Absalom will convince his followers that reconciliation with his father is impossible.
No king could forgive such a public insult. So it happened as Nathan had predicted.
Sunday, August 3, 2014
No matter what happen sons of God will rest with God
2 Samuel 16:1-14
Ziba brought a string of donkeys saddled and loaded with two hundred loaves of bread... he appeared at the right time to king David.
Shimei curse David for he shed in the household of Saul, but David didn't. David always respect Saul not many times did not take his life, for David knew Saul is an anointed one of God.
David ignored the curse of Shimei, he thought it is the Lord who has told him to. "It may be that the Lord will see my distress and repay me with good for the cursing I am receiving today". David still put his hope to the Lord.
Why?
Obsequious拍馬屁的,低三下四 clearly has an eye to the main chance. Mephibosheth later denies the charges made against him.
Shimei takes a vindictive pleasure in the downfall of the man who robbed his family of the throne.
David has never thought less of himself. As he makes for the Jordan, on the run from his own son as he had once been from Saul, he is at an all-time low. What happens now will rest with God.
How?
No matter what happen sons of God will rest with God. He is the Lord!
Ziba brought a string of donkeys saddled and loaded with two hundred loaves of bread... he appeared at the right time to king David.
Shimei curse David for he shed in the household of Saul, but David didn't. David always respect Saul not many times did not take his life, for David knew Saul is an anointed one of God.
David ignored the curse of Shimei, he thought it is the Lord who has told him to. "It may be that the Lord will see my distress and repay me with good for the cursing I am receiving today". David still put his hope to the Lord.
Why?
Obsequious拍馬屁的,低三下四 clearly has an eye to the main chance. Mephibosheth later denies the charges made against him.
Shimei takes a vindictive pleasure in the downfall of the man who robbed his family of the throne.
David has never thought less of himself. As he makes for the Jordan, on the run from his own son as he had once been from Saul, he is at an all-time low. What happens now will rest with God.
How?
No matter what happen sons of God will rest with God. He is the Lord!
Saturday, August 2, 2014
Praying and accept God does to me whatever seems good to him
2 Samuel 15:13-37
David knew that he must flee, or none of his men will escape from Absalom.
David knew it is the punishment from the Lord, so if he is not pleased with God he won't come back, if he ind favor n the Lord's eyes, he will bring him back and let hi see the Ark of God. Let God do to David whatever seems good to Him.
The king is caught unprepared. To save the city, and gain time, he leaves Jerusalem. But he organized a spy-ring. And Hushai is sent back to outwit Ahithophel whose far-sighted counsel is otherwise likely to win the day for Absalom.
Why?
David accepted God do to him whatever seems good to God. He respect the arrangement of the Lord.
David respected the Lord, he is always pray to the Lord in any situation.
Ahithophel: Bathsheba's grandfather; wisest of all David's advisers.
Jesus betrayed like David, would spend his night of anguish on the Mount of Olives.
How?
Accept God does to me whatever seems good to him, and always pray to the Lord in any situation. Faith and Obedience!
David knew that he must flee, or none of his men will escape from Absalom.
David knew it is the punishment from the Lord, so if he is not pleased with God he won't come back, if he ind favor n the Lord's eyes, he will bring him back and let hi see the Ark of God. Let God do to David whatever seems good to Him.
The king is caught unprepared. To save the city, and gain time, he leaves Jerusalem. But he organized a spy-ring. And Hushai is sent back to outwit Ahithophel whose far-sighted counsel is otherwise likely to win the day for Absalom.
Why?
David accepted God do to him whatever seems good to God. He respect the arrangement of the Lord.
David respected the Lord, he is always pray to the Lord in any situation.
Ahithophel: Bathsheba's grandfather; wisest of all David's advisers.
Jesus betrayed like David, would spend his night of anguish on the Mount of Olives.
How?
Accept God does to me whatever seems good to him, and always pray to the Lord in any situation. Faith and Obedience!
Friday, August 1, 2014
Love and Justice gets the heart of men
2 Samuel 15:1-12
Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel by his kindness treatment and appointed judge in the land to anyone who came to Jerusalem with a complaint to be placed before the king.
Two hundred men from Jerusalem had accompanied Absalom to Hebron. They had been invited as guests and went quite innocently, knowing nothing the matter.
And the conspiracy gained strength, and Absalom's following kept in increasing.
With Amon out of the way, and Abigails son dead, Absalom is next in line to the throne.
But Solomon is David's chosen heir. For four years Absalom lays his plans, gradually winning the people over. When he does come into the open the challenge to David is extremely serious.
Why?
The gate where the city's business and legal transactions took place.
Hebron is David's former capital in Judah.
David was not bad to his people but Absalom grasp the heart of men without let others know what he wanted, so it says he stole the hearts of men.
Love and Justice attract men's heart, but no one know what a man think about behind his motivation, except God.
How?
Jesus Christ, the Lord has everlasting love and justice.
Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel by his kindness treatment and appointed judge in the land to anyone who came to Jerusalem with a complaint to be placed before the king.
Two hundred men from Jerusalem had accompanied Absalom to Hebron. They had been invited as guests and went quite innocently, knowing nothing the matter.
And the conspiracy gained strength, and Absalom's following kept in increasing.
With Amon out of the way, and Abigails son dead, Absalom is next in line to the throne.
But Solomon is David's chosen heir. For four years Absalom lays his plans, gradually winning the people over. When he does come into the open the challenge to David is extremely serious.
Why?
The gate where the city's business and legal transactions took place.
Hebron is David's former capital in Judah.
David was not bad to his people but Absalom grasp the heart of men without let others know what he wanted, so it says he stole the hearts of men.
Love and Justice attract men's heart, but no one know what a man think about behind his motivation, except God.
How?
Jesus Christ, the Lord has everlasting love and justice.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)