Numbers 1-3
Census! Heard that word lately? If you live in America, that's almost all you've heard about (besides the health care bill) over the last few months.
Numbers chapter 1 begins with the first Census of Israel. In the Hebrew Bible, this book is entitled "In the Wilderness." The name "Numbers" comes from the Greek translation of the Old Testament and refers specifically to the census figures given in two census reports; Num. 7-1:2-46 and 26:2-51.
The content of the Book of Numbers is diverse, moving back and forth between lists and laws and narratives, making it hard to identify any single outline or structure. The book begins in the same vein as Leviticus, with more divine instructions from Mount Sinai, still stressing priestly matters. These laws conclude in ch. 10 and the Israelites set out for the Promised Land.
The people needed organization in order to reach that "land flowing with milk and honey." and God instructed Moses to take a census so that the people would be organized both for travel and for warfare.
The First Census of Israel (1:1-54)
God chose one man from each tribe to be in charge of getting his entire tribe together and counting the men who were 20 years and older (old enough to go to war) (1:1-4). God gave Moses the specific names of the men that were to be chosen from each of the 12 tribes to carry out the census (1:5-44).
There was one exception, the tribe of Levi was not numbered; they were the tribe chosen to be over the operations of the tabernacle (1:47-54).
The number of men in the other 11 tribes were 603,550 (1:45-46).
The Tribes and Leaders by Armies (2:1-34)
Each of the tribes was assigned a section of the camp.
These armies were designed to surround the camp for the purpose of sounding the alarm if an enemy approached from any side. The entire camp was surrounded by the various tribal armies.
The Sons of Aaron (3:1-13)
Census of the Levites Commanded (3:14-39)
This census was for every male from the age of one month and above (vs.14).
The Levites camp was located to the east in front of the tabernacle (vs.38-39)
There were 22,000 of them.
Levites Dedicated Instead of the First Born (3:40-51)
Offerings were taken from all the people and given to the Levites for the
operation of the tabernacle, this was a ceremonial offering for redemption (3:49-51).
Duties of the Sons of Kohath (4:1-20)
This family was part of the Levite tribe. Those from age 30 to 50 were counted. These men were given very specific duties concerning the taking down and carrying of specific parts of the tabernacle to get it ready to be moved. (vs.4-15)
They were to wrap and carry the "most holy things" (4:4)
They would die if they did not prepare and move things according to the Lord's commands (4:17-19).
Duties of the Sons of Gershon (4:21-28)
These men ages 30 to 50 were responsible for the curtains, the coverings, the screen for the door, the screen for the gate, hangings of the court, and all other things made of fabric and skins (4:25-26).
Duties of the Sons of Merari (4:29-33)
These men 30 to 50 were to carry the boards of the tabernacle, it's bars, its pillars, its sockets, and the pillars around the court with their sockets, pegs, and cords, and some of the furnishings (4:31-32).
Census of the Levites (4:34-49)
The Levite tribe was responsible for the packing up and moving of the tabernacle. We must remember that the tabernacle was made to be put up and taken down. Though it was a mammoth task, it could be done. Not only was it a large undertaking, but it was also very valuable with everything being covered in bronze or pure gold. If you remember our past study; each one of the furnishings was built with sockets and rings so that poles could be inserted to allow them to be carried. According to the above passages, these families of the tribe of the Levites were given commands directly from God, by Moses, to carefully pack and carry each part of the tabernacle to the next leg of their journey. If they followed God's direction, and worked together, a mammoth task became possible. What a great lesson here for us, the body of Christ. We have a mammoth task ahead of us. We are trying to reach a lost and dieing world.
We must work together, be organized and prepared for "travel and warfare".
The next leg of our journey is reaching those who need a Savior and as far as the warfare is concerned; you can be certain that Satan will be waging war against us, all the way!!
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Thursday, March 18, 2010
I have really been swamped for the last two weeks. So starting today I'm going to try and make up some ground. We will look at a couple of extra chapters each day for a couple of weeks to try and catch up some. Please be patient with me. I'm definitely a diamond in the rough!!
Exodus 24-27:
Someone reminded me yesterday in Sunday school that God's ways are higher than ours and our ways are not His ways. It's a dangerous thing to speculate "what He meant" or try to be dogmatic about our own opinions concerning "what He said" in scripture. So, when I read chapter 24 and looked at the penalties that God ordained for His children, some seemed harsh. But, His ways are higher than mine!!! I will not speculate...just see the facts. When scripture is silent I need to be silent. But when scripture sets specific commands in place, it is "what God said" and can be used to guide and teach us as His children. Some say God's laws are outdated or that Old Testament scripture is not relevant to us today...I say, if God said it, I believe it and if I can apply it through the Holy Spirit's conviction of sin in my heart, then it's relevant. Open your heart to God's word and allow His Holy Spirit to do the work in you as you read and study it.
Care of the Tabernacle Lamps (24:1-4)
The oil had to be replenished morning and evening so that the light never went out. A constant reminder that the Lord was with them. This was one of Aaron's responsibilities as the priest.
The Bread of the Tabernacle (24:5-9)
The Bread was also to be made daily from flour received from the people. Set in two rows of 6 loaves (representing the twelve tribes) and was to be eaten daily by Aaron and his sons as a reminder of the covenant between them and their God.
The Penalty for Blasphemy (24:10-23)
Blasphemy was a very serious crime "Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain" one of the ten commandments, if broken, was punishable by stoning. Those who heard the "cursing of the Lord" were the ones to take up the stones (24:14). Murder was also punishable by death. The laws of retribution were put into affect in this section of scripture "an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth" (24:18-21).
The Sabbath Years and Year of Jubilee:
Every 7th year was the Sabbath Year, in which the land was to lie fallow (Lev. 25:4). Among other things this practice would prevent soil depletion and the subsequent impoverishment of the farmer (still practiced today by farmers). The Year of Jubilee came every 50th year (Lev.25:9,11). Possibly no systematic harvesting of the produce of the fields was permitted during the 7th or jubilee years. Although people might eat such produce in the fields (25: 6,7,12), their regular meals were to come from the excess of the previous years (25:21).
The Sabbath of the Seventh Year (25:1-7)
The Year of Jubilee (25:8-17)
Provisions for the Seventh Year (25:18-22)
Redemption of Property (25:23-34)
If someone became poor and was forced to sell their possessions, including land, house etc. and a relative could purchase it back, or if he at a later time was able, he could buy it back at a prorated price. The purchaser would hold the land until the year of jubilee at which time all land was restored to it's original owner.
Lending to the Poor (25:35-38)
If someone fell into poverty it was the duty of those around him to take him in and feed him without charging him money for the service.
Every 50th year was the year of jubilee in Israel (Lev. 25:11,13). The provisions of this sacred time were intended to maintain economic equality and prevent the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few. In the Jubilee year, if property were not already redeemed, it was to be restored to the original owner (25:25-28). This prevented the creation of great hereditary estates that would have reduced the families of small land holders to the status of serfs. It was similar to the suspension of debts, which was a widespread practice in the Old Babylonian period.
The Law Concerning Slavery (25:39-55)
If someone became poor they could sell themselves to a brother and work for him (for pay) not as a slave, but as a hired hand to be released back to his own land until the Year of Jubilee. Slavery was practiced at this time. The children of Israel could purchase "from the inhabitants of the nations surrounding them"
(25:44-46) person to work the land and they were to be considered permanent property of the family who purchased them as an inheritance to their children(25:46).
Promise of Blessing and Retribution (26:1-46)
This chapter is an expanded version (if you will) of the original ten commandments given to Moses on Mt. Sinai. By that I mean that God not only repeats the laws, but also gives an explanation of the law and the relating promises given in the covenant for the obedience of the law.
"These are the statutes and judgments and laws which the LORD made between Himself and the children of Israel on Mount Sinai by the hand of Moses." (26:46)
Redeeming Persons and Property Dedicated to God (27:1-34)
In verse 2 a singular vow means a special vow by which an individual consecrated to the Lord himself or his family, his animals, his house or his fields(27:2, 3-8, 9-13, 14-25). Instead of actually transferring ownership the individual could substitute a just sum of money (except when a clean animal was vowed to the Lord, in which case it could not be redeemed (27:9-10).
In today's vernacular, this would be called a (tithe or offering) to the Lord.
We do not transfer ownership of our property, we simply give to the church according to our prosperity.
An "eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth." Sounds harsh, doesn't it? God also says "vengeance is mine." God's justice is perfect, holy and made according to His omnipotence. Ours on the other hand is scud by greed, hatred and a warped sense of justice, ruled by a sin nature. Let go and let God!! When we are wronged, it is often times hard to let it go and just let God have his perfect way in the situation. But, it is best, because His ways are higher than ours and His will is perfect and just!!!
Exodus 24-27:
Someone reminded me yesterday in Sunday school that God's ways are higher than ours and our ways are not His ways. It's a dangerous thing to speculate "what He meant" or try to be dogmatic about our own opinions concerning "what He said" in scripture. So, when I read chapter 24 and looked at the penalties that God ordained for His children, some seemed harsh. But, His ways are higher than mine!!! I will not speculate...just see the facts. When scripture is silent I need to be silent. But when scripture sets specific commands in place, it is "what God said" and can be used to guide and teach us as His children. Some say God's laws are outdated or that Old Testament scripture is not relevant to us today...I say, if God said it, I believe it and if I can apply it through the Holy Spirit's conviction of sin in my heart, then it's relevant. Open your heart to God's word and allow His Holy Spirit to do the work in you as you read and study it.
Care of the Tabernacle Lamps (24:1-4)
The oil had to be replenished morning and evening so that the light never went out. A constant reminder that the Lord was with them. This was one of Aaron's responsibilities as the priest.
The Bread of the Tabernacle (24:5-9)
The Bread was also to be made daily from flour received from the people. Set in two rows of 6 loaves (representing the twelve tribes) and was to be eaten daily by Aaron and his sons as a reminder of the covenant between them and their God.
The Penalty for Blasphemy (24:10-23)
Blasphemy was a very serious crime "Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain" one of the ten commandments, if broken, was punishable by stoning. Those who heard the "cursing of the Lord" were the ones to take up the stones (24:14). Murder was also punishable by death. The laws of retribution were put into affect in this section of scripture "an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth" (24:18-21).
The Sabbath Years and Year of Jubilee:
Every 7th year was the Sabbath Year, in which the land was to lie fallow (Lev. 25:4). Among other things this practice would prevent soil depletion and the subsequent impoverishment of the farmer (still practiced today by farmers). The Year of Jubilee came every 50th year (Lev.25:9,11). Possibly no systematic harvesting of the produce of the fields was permitted during the 7th or jubilee years. Although people might eat such produce in the fields (25: 6,7,12), their regular meals were to come from the excess of the previous years (25:21).
The Sabbath of the Seventh Year (25:1-7)
The Year of Jubilee (25:8-17)
Provisions for the Seventh Year (25:18-22)
Redemption of Property (25:23-34)
If someone became poor and was forced to sell their possessions, including land, house etc. and a relative could purchase it back, or if he at a later time was able, he could buy it back at a prorated price. The purchaser would hold the land until the year of jubilee at which time all land was restored to it's original owner.
Lending to the Poor (25:35-38)
If someone fell into poverty it was the duty of those around him to take him in and feed him without charging him money for the service.
Every 50th year was the year of jubilee in Israel (Lev. 25:11,13). The provisions of this sacred time were intended to maintain economic equality and prevent the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few. In the Jubilee year, if property were not already redeemed, it was to be restored to the original owner (25:25-28). This prevented the creation of great hereditary estates that would have reduced the families of small land holders to the status of serfs. It was similar to the suspension of debts, which was a widespread practice in the Old Babylonian period.
The Law Concerning Slavery (25:39-55)
If someone became poor they could sell themselves to a brother and work for him (for pay) not as a slave, but as a hired hand to be released back to his own land until the Year of Jubilee. Slavery was practiced at this time. The children of Israel could purchase "from the inhabitants of the nations surrounding them"
(25:44-46) person to work the land and they were to be considered permanent property of the family who purchased them as an inheritance to their children(25:46).
Promise of Blessing and Retribution (26:1-46)
This chapter is an expanded version (if you will) of the original ten commandments given to Moses on Mt. Sinai. By that I mean that God not only repeats the laws, but also gives an explanation of the law and the relating promises given in the covenant for the obedience of the law.
"These are the statutes and judgments and laws which the LORD made between Himself and the children of Israel on Mount Sinai by the hand of Moses." (26:46)
Redeeming Persons and Property Dedicated to God (27:1-34)
In verse 2 a singular vow means a special vow by which an individual consecrated to the Lord himself or his family, his animals, his house or his fields(27:2, 3-8, 9-13, 14-25). Instead of actually transferring ownership the individual could substitute a just sum of money (except when a clean animal was vowed to the Lord, in which case it could not be redeemed (27:9-10).
In today's vernacular, this would be called a (tithe or offering) to the Lord.
We do not transfer ownership of our property, we simply give to the church according to our prosperity.
An "eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth." Sounds harsh, doesn't it? God also says "vengeance is mine." God's justice is perfect, holy and made according to His omnipotence. Ours on the other hand is scud by greed, hatred and a warped sense of justice, ruled by a sin nature. Let go and let God!! When we are wronged, it is often times hard to let it go and just let God have his perfect way in the situation. But, it is best, because His ways are higher than ours and His will is perfect and just!!!
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Before we begin the passage for today, I have a prayer request.
A friend of mine called me this afternoon and asked prayer for her brother's family. Her brother in Atlanta, rushed his wife to the hospital with an abscessed appendix, while at the same time in, Portland, Oregon, their son was being ruched to the emergency room with a broken collar bone, the result of a snowboarding accident. Now the son is hundreds of miles away lonely and in pain, while his mom is in the hospital. His return flight isn't until Saturday.
Please pray that the airline will take mercy on him and let him fly home on a stand by flight so that he can be with his family. He needs them and they need him.
Leviticus 21-23
Regulations for Conduct of Priests (21:1-22:16)
The priest were forbidden to come in contact by preparing or carrying a dead body except for the close family listed in these verses. (Lev.21:1-4) Otherwise they were defiling themselves and were made unworthy of serving in the tabernacle. The other regulations for the priest behavior deal with such things as marrying a harlot or a divorced woman.(Lev. 21:7) It also speaks of Aaron's descendants who would become ineligible to serve as a priest; those with any defects. (Lev.21:17-23)
Offerings Accepted and Not Accepted (22:17-33)
Any offering with a blemish or other defect was not an acceptable offering. (22:19-23) Nothing bruised or crushed (fruits & vegetables) torn or cut (22:24-27) In other words all offerings had to be perfect in order to be accepted.
Israel's Feasts (Lev. 23:1-44)
In addition to the Sabbath, Leviticus 23 describes seven sacred festivals of the Hebrew calendar that were observed before the Babylonian exile. These feasts were occasions for nationwide gatherings which called the people to public worship. Passover (23:5) and the Feast of Unleavened Bread (23:6-8) occurred in Abib (also called Nisan), the 1st month (March or April) of the sacred year. Combined they were one of Israel's three annual pilgrimage festivals for which every adult male was required to present himself at the tabernacle; and later, the temple.
Passover may have been celebrated for one day at the beginning of the week-long Feast of Unleavened Bread, as it is in modern Judaism.
Firstfruits (23:9-21) was celebrated twice during the year as an expression of gratitude to God for His provision in the harvest. The first celebration occurred on the day following the Sabbath at the time of the Feast of Unleavened Bread. This fell during the barley harvest, some time between the 15th and the 22nd days of the 1st month (Abib). The second celebration occurred 50 days later during the Feast of Weeks.
The Feast of Weeks (23:15-22), also known as Harvest (Ex. 23:16), occurred 50 days after the offering of firstfruits at the barley harvest. Held in connection the wheat harvest, this one day celebration during the 3rd month (Sivan) involved the firstfruits observation as well as other sacrifices. It was the second festival with required attendance at the temple.
The Feast of Trumpets (23:23-25) was the first of three holy days of the 7th month (Tishni). It was a sacred celebration of the new civil year, calling attention to judgment for sin, and the need for penitence and forgiveness.
The Day of Atonement (23:26-32) was the second holy day of the 7th month. On this day sacrifice was made for the sin of the whole nation, thus, it was a time of true repentance and faith preparing for the Feast of Tabernacles.
The Feast of Tabernacles (23:33-36 or Booths v. 39-43), the third holy day of the 7th month was celebrated at the end of the grape harvest in September-October. Also known as in gathering (Ex. 23:16), it was a time for great joy when all harvests were completed. It was also the third feast requiring a pilgrimage to Jerusalem.
It seems that there were festivals going on all year to remind the children of Israel that they had much to be thankful for. God had miraculously provided for their safety, health, and spiritual well being. It was up to them to be obedient to the things Moses was trying to teach them. Through their obedience came the blessings of God upon their nation.
A friend of mine called me this afternoon and asked prayer for her brother's family. Her brother in Atlanta, rushed his wife to the hospital with an abscessed appendix, while at the same time in, Portland, Oregon, their son was being ruched to the emergency room with a broken collar bone, the result of a snowboarding accident. Now the son is hundreds of miles away lonely and in pain, while his mom is in the hospital. His return flight isn't until Saturday.
Please pray that the airline will take mercy on him and let him fly home on a stand by flight so that he can be with his family. He needs them and they need him.
Leviticus 21-23
Regulations for Conduct of Priests (21:1-22:16)
The priest were forbidden to come in contact by preparing or carrying a dead body except for the close family listed in these verses. (Lev.21:1-4) Otherwise they were defiling themselves and were made unworthy of serving in the tabernacle. The other regulations for the priest behavior deal with such things as marrying a harlot or a divorced woman.(Lev. 21:7) It also speaks of Aaron's descendants who would become ineligible to serve as a priest; those with any defects. (Lev.21:17-23)
Offerings Accepted and Not Accepted (22:17-33)
Any offering with a blemish or other defect was not an acceptable offering. (22:19-23) Nothing bruised or crushed (fruits & vegetables) torn or cut (22:24-27) In other words all offerings had to be perfect in order to be accepted.
Israel's Feasts (Lev. 23:1-44)
In addition to the Sabbath, Leviticus 23 describes seven sacred festivals of the Hebrew calendar that were observed before the Babylonian exile. These feasts were occasions for nationwide gatherings which called the people to public worship. Passover (23:5) and the Feast of Unleavened Bread (23:6-8) occurred in Abib (also called Nisan), the 1st month (March or April) of the sacred year. Combined they were one of Israel's three annual pilgrimage festivals for which every adult male was required to present himself at the tabernacle; and later, the temple.
Passover may have been celebrated for one day at the beginning of the week-long Feast of Unleavened Bread, as it is in modern Judaism.
Firstfruits (23:9-21) was celebrated twice during the year as an expression of gratitude to God for His provision in the harvest. The first celebration occurred on the day following the Sabbath at the time of the Feast of Unleavened Bread. This fell during the barley harvest, some time between the 15th and the 22nd days of the 1st month (Abib). The second celebration occurred 50 days later during the Feast of Weeks.
The Feast of Weeks (23:15-22), also known as Harvest (Ex. 23:16), occurred 50 days after the offering of firstfruits at the barley harvest. Held in connection the wheat harvest, this one day celebration during the 3rd month (Sivan) involved the firstfruits observation as well as other sacrifices. It was the second festival with required attendance at the temple.
The Feast of Trumpets (23:23-25) was the first of three holy days of the 7th month (Tishni). It was a sacred celebration of the new civil year, calling attention to judgment for sin, and the need for penitence and forgiveness.
The Day of Atonement (23:26-32) was the second holy day of the 7th month. On this day sacrifice was made for the sin of the whole nation, thus, it was a time of true repentance and faith preparing for the Feast of Tabernacles.
The Feast of Tabernacles (23:33-36 or Booths v. 39-43), the third holy day of the 7th month was celebrated at the end of the grape harvest in September-October. Also known as in gathering (Ex. 23:16), it was a time for great joy when all harvests were completed. It was also the third feast requiring a pilgrimage to Jerusalem.
It seems that there were festivals going on all year to remind the children of Israel that they had much to be thankful for. God had miraculously provided for their safety, health, and spiritual well being. It was up to them to be obedient to the things Moses was trying to teach them. Through their obedience came the blessings of God upon their nation.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Leviticus 16-20
The Day of Atonement:
A description of the Day of Atonement, the most sacred event in the year, appears in Lev. 16 and also in Lev. 23:26-32. Post biblical Judaism referred to this annual observance as "the day" or "the great day." In the New Testament Paul calls it "the Fast" (Acts 27:9). It was observed on the 10th day of the 7th month, Tishri, corresponding to October (Lev. 23:1).
Aaron, the high priest had two sons who were consecrated to serve in the tabernacle with him. They were given very specific instructions about the burning of the incense. Even down to where the fire was to come from. In disobedience to their father, they obtained the fire from another source and they died. God takes his commands very seriously, especially where true worship if concerned. Chapter 16 begins with a description from God through Moses to Aaron concerning the entering into the "Holy of Holies". The chosen priest could only enter into that sacred place where the very presence of God was, on one day each year, there was a penalty of death for disobedience.
The rest of the chapter deals with meticulous instructions from God about the preparation of the tabernacle for the yearly ritual.
The Sanctity of Blood (Lev. 17:1-16)
Any animal killed for food was to be brought to the tabernacle where the blood and fat became a peace offering (v. 5-6). Then the meat could be eaten.
This was commanded to keep them from offering the blood of animals (slaughtered for food) to idols (17:7). We must also remember that the only time they ate meat was during the festivals. This would be a time when they might have visitors in the camp who could influence them in the worship of other gods. These laws were an attempt to atone for their sins and keep them from turning from God to idols.
Laws of Sexual Morality (Lev. 18:1-30)
These are very specific laws to prevent incest, homosexuality, bestiality and adultery. In this chapter there are references made to the past inhabitants of the land, the Egyptians and the Canaanites who practiced these things and a command to the children of God that they should "observe My judgments and keep My ordinances" (18:4).
Moral and Ceremonial Law (19:37)
These laws dealt with everyday life. Many of which are rewrites of the ten commandments. References are made to being holy, avoiding idol worship, the treatment of one's neighbor, lieing, stealing, adultery and prostitution.
These were designed to teach the people how to live peacefully with one another.
Penalties for Breaking the Law (20:1-27)
In the first verse there is a reference to Molech-(an Ammonite deity to whom children or infants were often sacrificed). The punishment for such a sacrifice was stoning. There were very severe punishments assigned to the disobedience to laws; anything from cutting off a hand for stealing, plucking out an eye for viewing the nakedness of another, to death by stoning for adultery. At any rate the people got the message straight from God, so there was no doubt that it was commanded, not requested.
Why is it that we take God's laws so lightly. As Christians we are commanded to obey the very same things that were the children of Israel. They are not requests; they are commandments.
Maybe it's because there are no longer stoning, or the removal of limbs. It sounds pretty harsh, but human nature is such that if you give an inch a mile is taken. If we are willing to admit it, we all know that we need to be held accountable for our actions.
God help us to be the kind of Christians that desire to follow your commands.
Help me personally to be putty in your hands. It is the only way that we can become more like Christ...it is the only way that a lost and dieing world can see God's glory through us!!
The Day of Atonement:
A description of the Day of Atonement, the most sacred event in the year, appears in Lev. 16 and also in Lev. 23:26-32. Post biblical Judaism referred to this annual observance as "the day" or "the great day." In the New Testament Paul calls it "the Fast" (Acts 27:9). It was observed on the 10th day of the 7th month, Tishri, corresponding to October (Lev. 23:1).
Aaron, the high priest had two sons who were consecrated to serve in the tabernacle with him. They were given very specific instructions about the burning of the incense. Even down to where the fire was to come from. In disobedience to their father, they obtained the fire from another source and they died. God takes his commands very seriously, especially where true worship if concerned. Chapter 16 begins with a description from God through Moses to Aaron concerning the entering into the "Holy of Holies". The chosen priest could only enter into that sacred place where the very presence of God was, on one day each year, there was a penalty of death for disobedience.
The rest of the chapter deals with meticulous instructions from God about the preparation of the tabernacle for the yearly ritual.
The Sanctity of Blood (Lev. 17:1-16)
Any animal killed for food was to be brought to the tabernacle where the blood and fat became a peace offering (v. 5-6). Then the meat could be eaten.
This was commanded to keep them from offering the blood of animals (slaughtered for food) to idols (17:7). We must also remember that the only time they ate meat was during the festivals. This would be a time when they might have visitors in the camp who could influence them in the worship of other gods. These laws were an attempt to atone for their sins and keep them from turning from God to idols.
Laws of Sexual Morality (Lev. 18:1-30)
These are very specific laws to prevent incest, homosexuality, bestiality and adultery. In this chapter there are references made to the past inhabitants of the land, the Egyptians and the Canaanites who practiced these things and a command to the children of God that they should "observe My judgments and keep My ordinances" (18:4).
Moral and Ceremonial Law (19:37)
These laws dealt with everyday life. Many of which are rewrites of the ten commandments. References are made to being holy, avoiding idol worship, the treatment of one's neighbor, lieing, stealing, adultery and prostitution.
These were designed to teach the people how to live peacefully with one another.
Penalties for Breaking the Law (20:1-27)
In the first verse there is a reference to Molech-(an Ammonite deity to whom children or infants were often sacrificed). The punishment for such a sacrifice was stoning. There were very severe punishments assigned to the disobedience to laws; anything from cutting off a hand for stealing, plucking out an eye for viewing the nakedness of another, to death by stoning for adultery. At any rate the people got the message straight from God, so there was no doubt that it was commanded, not requested.
Why is it that we take God's laws so lightly. As Christians we are commanded to obey the very same things that were the children of Israel. They are not requests; they are commandments.
Maybe it's because there are no longer stoning, or the removal of limbs. It sounds pretty harsh, but human nature is such that if you give an inch a mile is taken. If we are willing to admit it, we all know that we need to be held accountable for our actions.
God help us to be the kind of Christians that desire to follow your commands.
Help me personally to be putty in your hands. It is the only way that we can become more like Christ...it is the only way that a lost and dieing world can see God's glory through us!!
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Leviticus 11-15
The next eleven chapters of Leviticus deal with all sorts of laws. Many of the laws discussed in these chapters relate to clean and unclean animals (ch.11)health issues, health issues such as childbirth, leprosy and bodily discharges (ch.12-15) murder (killing anything even animals without sacrificial purpose was considered the same as murder) (ch. 17).others to moral issues, (ch. 18, 19). Remember that Israel is a new nation and the establishment of law is essential to their survival. Therefore, God, through Moses, delivered the law to the people. Chapter 20 covers some of the penalties for breaking the law. These were also important to serve as deterrents for the people, encouraging them to live by God's standards.
Foods Permitted and Forbidden (ch. 11:1-22)
The rationale for the distinctions between clean and unclean animals has been the subject of speculation. One suggestion is that unclean animals include those whose locomotion is improper or irregular, like the bat, which is a mammal that flies. Fish without fins are unclean (Lev. 11:10), as are animals that "creep" on the ground (11:41). I have also heard the opinion that the unclean rationale is based on what the animals eat (hogs eat slop, shrimp and lobster are both scavengers and eat off the bottom of the ocean as do some fresh fish, such as catfish). Thus it would appear that there could also be health related reasoning behind some of the laws.
Unclean Animals (11:23-47)
The Ritual After Childbirth (chapter 12)
The Law Concerning Leprosy (13:1-46)
The Law Concerning Leprous Garments (13:47-59)
Both of these laws were established to protect the uninfected from the infected person or their belongings. Since this disease could be transferred from one person to the other through a live virus on the clothing or belongings of the infected person, there were very strict laws concerning the disease. At certain stages of the disease, the person was ordered to be quarantined (13:45).
The Ritual for Cleansing Healed Lepers (14:1-32)
The Law Concerning Leprous Houses (14:33-57)
The Law Concerning Bodily Discharges (15:1-33)
These laws were established to make sure that diseases were not carried from one person or one home to another. Isn't it interesting that God has established these things to protect his people from bodily fluids that could possible contaminate and spread through the people. Such diseases have wiped out thousands throughout history (black plague for instance) and look at the devastating affects of aids, which is a disease spread by bodily fluids.
It seems to me that if the world turned back to God and obeyed his laws which were established for the protection of His people, we would be much better off.
I of course am not referring the laws concern sacrifices, our final sacrifice was complete with the death of Christ. But, the practical laws concerning health issues, the way we treat each other and so many of the laws that were established for the well-being of the nation as a whole. Through studying these laws I have been able to see how many of our present day laws have evolved directly from what God passed down to Moses. What a blessing that God loved us enough to help our forefathers establish laws to govern us, with an open eye to the sin problem of man. I am grateful for the men and women who enforce the law and protect us from those who will not obey the law.
The next eleven chapters of Leviticus deal with all sorts of laws. Many of the laws discussed in these chapters relate to clean and unclean animals (ch.11)health issues, health issues such as childbirth, leprosy and bodily discharges (ch.12-15) murder (killing anything even animals without sacrificial purpose was considered the same as murder) (ch. 17).others to moral issues, (ch. 18, 19). Remember that Israel is a new nation and the establishment of law is essential to their survival. Therefore, God, through Moses, delivered the law to the people. Chapter 20 covers some of the penalties for breaking the law. These were also important to serve as deterrents for the people, encouraging them to live by God's standards.
Foods Permitted and Forbidden (ch. 11:1-22)
The rationale for the distinctions between clean and unclean animals has been the subject of speculation. One suggestion is that unclean animals include those whose locomotion is improper or irregular, like the bat, which is a mammal that flies. Fish without fins are unclean (Lev. 11:10), as are animals that "creep" on the ground (11:41). I have also heard the opinion that the unclean rationale is based on what the animals eat (hogs eat slop, shrimp and lobster are both scavengers and eat off the bottom of the ocean as do some fresh fish, such as catfish). Thus it would appear that there could also be health related reasoning behind some of the laws.
Unclean Animals (11:23-47)
The Ritual After Childbirth (chapter 12)
The Law Concerning Leprosy (13:1-46)
The Law Concerning Leprous Garments (13:47-59)
Both of these laws were established to protect the uninfected from the infected person or their belongings. Since this disease could be transferred from one person to the other through a live virus on the clothing or belongings of the infected person, there were very strict laws concerning the disease. At certain stages of the disease, the person was ordered to be quarantined (13:45).
The Ritual for Cleansing Healed Lepers (14:1-32)
The Law Concerning Leprous Houses (14:33-57)
The Law Concerning Bodily Discharges (15:1-33)
These laws were established to make sure that diseases were not carried from one person or one home to another. Isn't it interesting that God has established these things to protect his people from bodily fluids that could possible contaminate and spread through the people. Such diseases have wiped out thousands throughout history (black plague for instance) and look at the devastating affects of aids, which is a disease spread by bodily fluids.
It seems to me that if the world turned back to God and obeyed his laws which were established for the protection of His people, we would be much better off.
I of course am not referring the laws concern sacrifices, our final sacrifice was complete with the death of Christ. But, the practical laws concerning health issues, the way we treat each other and so many of the laws that were established for the well-being of the nation as a whole. Through studying these laws I have been able to see how many of our present day laws have evolved directly from what God passed down to Moses. What a blessing that God loved us enough to help our forefathers establish laws to govern us, with an open eye to the sin problem of man. I am grateful for the men and women who enforce the law and protect us from those who will not obey the law.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Leviticus 8-10
These chapters begin the study of the consecration of Aaron and his sons.
They were the priest appointed by God and revealed to Moses. Aaron and his sons were to be consecrated and perform the duties of the tabernacle. Every duty and responsibility is carefully outlined by God himself and spoken to Moses to be revealed to the priests.
Aaron and His Sons Consecrated - Lev.8:1-36
The Priestly Ministry Begins - Lev. 9:1-22
The Profane Fire of Nadab and Abihu - Lev. 10:1-7
Conduct Prescribed for Priests Lev. - 10:8-20
Right or Wrong Ritual: Life or Death (Lev. 10:1-7)
In the modern western world we tend to think of religious rituals as the procedures by which a group of people worship God. It is not a crisis of faith if some part of a ritual is not done exactly right. But in the ancient world the ritual was considered something to be performed correctly. The ritual properly performed, was proper religion. To make an error in the prescribed forms of the rite was not just a mistake, but an act of impiety.
The priests, who were anointed and set apart to perform the rituals, were expected to live by a more stringent set of rules than were ordinary people. They had to memorize all the liturgy, hymns,k and words for every religious service. The ancient world held services for the deities every day of the year, and so specialists were needed among the priesthood who could handle any service. These priests, it was believed, were chosen by the deity being worshiped.
Nadab and Abihu, Aaron's sons, were legitimate priests who chose on their own not to follow the ritual that was sanctioned by God (Lev. 10:1). Their deviation appears minor in the eyes of the modern western world; they simply lit their incense censers with a fire from an unapproved source. But for this breach of worship they were both destroyed by divine fire (Lev. 10:2).
Israelites and Judahites would have understood these deaths as the proper consequence. A priest was supposed to follow the proper ritual, since the ritual was the way deity was honored and respected (Lev. 10:3). Nadab's and Abihu's evil was their decision to determine for themselves right and wrong ways to worship. Even mourning for these dead priests was denied, lest it be seen as condoning their sin (Lev. 10:6,7).
I believe that God takes our worship of Him very seriously still today.
This example, though we do not have the demands placed on us today that were placed on them, makes me aware of just how seriously we should look at the process of worship. God says that we should worship Him "in Spirit and in Truth" What does that mean exactly? We are commanded to be "filled with the spirit" in many places in God's word. Perhaps true worship can only be done if we are void of the things of this world and (filled with the spirit). To worship in (truth) means to me, that I will know in my heart the truth of God's greatness, mercy, and grace; when we are aware of these characteristics of God, we cannot help but worship Him in truth.
So, I guess, I would describe worshipping God in spirit and in truth as (The act of being filled with God's spirit to the point where I am keenly aware of His greatness, mercy and grace toward me; and being made aware of this face I am compelled to yield myself completely and be engulfed in worship of Him to the point where nothing else enters my heart or mind.)
Oh to worship God so completely and fully that nothing else matters.
That's how I want to worship Him!!!! How about you?
These chapters begin the study of the consecration of Aaron and his sons.
They were the priest appointed by God and revealed to Moses. Aaron and his sons were to be consecrated and perform the duties of the tabernacle. Every duty and responsibility is carefully outlined by God himself and spoken to Moses to be revealed to the priests.
Aaron and His Sons Consecrated - Lev.8:1-36
The Priestly Ministry Begins - Lev. 9:1-22
The Profane Fire of Nadab and Abihu - Lev. 10:1-7
Conduct Prescribed for Priests Lev. - 10:8-20
Right or Wrong Ritual: Life or Death (Lev. 10:1-7)
In the modern western world we tend to think of religious rituals as the procedures by which a group of people worship God. It is not a crisis of faith if some part of a ritual is not done exactly right. But in the ancient world the ritual was considered something to be performed correctly. The ritual properly performed, was proper religion. To make an error in the prescribed forms of the rite was not just a mistake, but an act of impiety.
The priests, who were anointed and set apart to perform the rituals, were expected to live by a more stringent set of rules than were ordinary people. They had to memorize all the liturgy, hymns,k and words for every religious service. The ancient world held services for the deities every day of the year, and so specialists were needed among the priesthood who could handle any service. These priests, it was believed, were chosen by the deity being worshiped.
Nadab and Abihu, Aaron's sons, were legitimate priests who chose on their own not to follow the ritual that was sanctioned by God (Lev. 10:1). Their deviation appears minor in the eyes of the modern western world; they simply lit their incense censers with a fire from an unapproved source. But for this breach of worship they were both destroyed by divine fire (Lev. 10:2).
Israelites and Judahites would have understood these deaths as the proper consequence. A priest was supposed to follow the proper ritual, since the ritual was the way deity was honored and respected (Lev. 10:3). Nadab's and Abihu's evil was their decision to determine for themselves right and wrong ways to worship. Even mourning for these dead priests was denied, lest it be seen as condoning their sin (Lev. 10:6,7).
I believe that God takes our worship of Him very seriously still today.
This example, though we do not have the demands placed on us today that were placed on them, makes me aware of just how seriously we should look at the process of worship. God says that we should worship Him "in Spirit and in Truth" What does that mean exactly? We are commanded to be "filled with the spirit" in many places in God's word. Perhaps true worship can only be done if we are void of the things of this world and (filled with the spirit). To worship in (truth) means to me, that I will know in my heart the truth of God's greatness, mercy, and grace; when we are aware of these characteristics of God, we cannot help but worship Him in truth.
So, I guess, I would describe worshipping God in spirit and in truth as (The act of being filled with God's spirit to the point where I am keenly aware of His greatness, mercy and grace toward me; and being made aware of this face I am compelled to yield myself completely and be engulfed in worship of Him to the point where nothing else enters my heart or mind.)
Oh to worship God so completely and fully that nothing else matters.
That's how I want to worship Him!!!! How about you?
Monday, March 8, 2010
We are beginning today in the book of Leviticus. The book is a continuation of God's covenant instructions on Mount Sinai, begun in Ex. 20. The name "Leviticus" comes from the many laws and regulations of the book that concern the rights and duties of priests (who were of the tribe of Levi).
Certain clearly defined bodies of laws can be identified in the book. The first seven chapters prescribe the laws of sacrifices; chs. 11-15 distinguish between what is clean and unclean; ch 16 describes the Day of Atonement; and the various laws of chs. 17-26 are unified by the distinct refrain "You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy" (Lev. 19:2)
The entire Book of Leviticus is set in a relatively brief period of time. Only a month and a half passes between the erection of the tabernacle at Mount Sinai and the Hebrews' departure from Sinai. The tabernacle was finished on the 1st day of the 1st month in the 2nd year of the Exodus (Ex. 40:17); the departure was on the 20th day of the 2nd month of the same year (Num.10:11,12). Depending on whether the Hebrews left Egypt in the 15th or 13th century, the 2nd year of the Exodus would be about 1445 or 1274 B.C.
The content of Leviticus, however,extends beyond this short month and a half in the wilderness. Many of the laws clearly pertain to a time after the Israelites had entered their land, for instance, the laws for planting fields and cleansing houses. Partly for this reason, some suggest that at least the current form of the book was actually composed later than its context would suggest, perhaps from several different law codes. Of course, those who accept the traditional attribution of the first five books of the Bible to Moses disagree and understand these passages simply as laws given for a future time.
The animal sacrifices described so carefully in Leviticus fit properly in the historical context of the book. Animal sacrifice was universal in ancient Near Eastern religion, so Israel's sacrifice of animals is hardly surprising. More striking, though, is the absolute prohibition against the equally common practice of child sacrifice (see Lev. 18:21).
Leviticus 1-4
These four chapters deal with the different types of offerings that were to be offered to the Lord in the tabernacle.
The Burnt Offering-1:1-17
The Grain Offering-2:1-16
The Peace Offering-3:1-17
The Sin Offering-4:1-35
Leviticus 5-7
These chapters cover, for the most part the laws that governed the offerings. There were very strict procedures for each offering and also laws that governed the exact way in which the priest would perform their duties concerning the offerings.
The Trespass Offering-5:1-13
Offerings with Restitution-5:14-6:7
The Law of the Burnt Offering-6:8-13
The Law of the Grain Offering-6:14-23
The Law of the Sin Offering-6:24-30
The Law of the Trespass Offering-7:1-10
The Law of Peace Offerings-7:11-21
Fat and Blood May Not Be Eaten-7:22-27
The Portion of Aaron and His Sons-7:28-38
The more I study the old testament the more I realize that God's plan for us is so amazing. We are washed in the blood of the "once and for all" sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The law that had to be obeyed for the remission of sin was done away with when, our Savior, the only complete sacrifice gave his life for us. Praise God for his mercy that we are no longer required to practice the day in and day out ritualistic duties that were required of the Israelites to keep their fellowship with God and be purged of sin. Have a wonderful day with the Lord knowing that your faith in His sacrifice has removed the penalty of death and separation from God forever. Amen!!
Certain clearly defined bodies of laws can be identified in the book. The first seven chapters prescribe the laws of sacrifices; chs. 11-15 distinguish between what is clean and unclean; ch 16 describes the Day of Atonement; and the various laws of chs. 17-26 are unified by the distinct refrain "You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy" (Lev. 19:2)
The entire Book of Leviticus is set in a relatively brief period of time. Only a month and a half passes between the erection of the tabernacle at Mount Sinai and the Hebrews' departure from Sinai. The tabernacle was finished on the 1st day of the 1st month in the 2nd year of the Exodus (Ex. 40:17); the departure was on the 20th day of the 2nd month of the same year (Num.10:11,12). Depending on whether the Hebrews left Egypt in the 15th or 13th century, the 2nd year of the Exodus would be about 1445 or 1274 B.C.
The content of Leviticus, however,extends beyond this short month and a half in the wilderness. Many of the laws clearly pertain to a time after the Israelites had entered their land, for instance, the laws for planting fields and cleansing houses. Partly for this reason, some suggest that at least the current form of the book was actually composed later than its context would suggest, perhaps from several different law codes. Of course, those who accept the traditional attribution of the first five books of the Bible to Moses disagree and understand these passages simply as laws given for a future time.
The animal sacrifices described so carefully in Leviticus fit properly in the historical context of the book. Animal sacrifice was universal in ancient Near Eastern religion, so Israel's sacrifice of animals is hardly surprising. More striking, though, is the absolute prohibition against the equally common practice of child sacrifice (see Lev. 18:21).
Leviticus 1-4
These four chapters deal with the different types of offerings that were to be offered to the Lord in the tabernacle.
The Burnt Offering-1:1-17
The Grain Offering-2:1-16
The Peace Offering-3:1-17
The Sin Offering-4:1-35
Leviticus 5-7
These chapters cover, for the most part the laws that governed the offerings. There were very strict procedures for each offering and also laws that governed the exact way in which the priest would perform their duties concerning the offerings.
The Trespass Offering-5:1-13
Offerings with Restitution-5:14-6:7
The Law of the Burnt Offering-6:8-13
The Law of the Grain Offering-6:14-23
The Law of the Sin Offering-6:24-30
The Law of the Trespass Offering-7:1-10
The Law of Peace Offerings-7:11-21
Fat and Blood May Not Be Eaten-7:22-27
The Portion of Aaron and His Sons-7:28-38
The more I study the old testament the more I realize that God's plan for us is so amazing. We are washed in the blood of the "once and for all" sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The law that had to be obeyed for the remission of sin was done away with when, our Savior, the only complete sacrifice gave his life for us. Praise God for his mercy that we are no longer required to practice the day in and day out ritualistic duties that were required of the Israelites to keep their fellowship with God and be purged of sin. Have a wonderful day with the Lord knowing that your faith in His sacrifice has removed the penalty of death and separation from God forever. Amen!!
Monday, March 1, 2010
What a wonderful day in the Lord I was granted yesterday!
After our choir special, I went to my place in the seat next to my husband and settled in for one of Jeff's great messages. With great anticipation I opened my Bible to Titus chapter 2 where we have been now for a couple of weeks. One of my favorite books in the Bible. Just as I got to my place in the scripture, I gasped and looked at my husband and said, "It's my day to answer the prayer lines for the Transforming Truth ministry. So I jumped up and quickly went over to the conference room in the other building.
We had several routine calls, a couple from people who call regularly. The message had wound down and we were getting ready to leave but continued to receive calls. Everyone either had left or were on another line, when the phone in front of me rang. I picked it up and the voice on the other end sounded a little desperate. As she told me her story, I learned that she was in the bed and had to be there for at least two months. She suffers from Lupus and had a fall that left her unable to attend drive. She was watching the transforming truth ministry and expressed how much she enjoyed it.
She told me that she was born into a Jewish family, her husband is an atheist, and her son does not know the Lord. As I listened to her, I could hear in her voice that she needed desperately to share her heart with someone. It became evident that she was not a Christian and I turned in my Bible to the book of Romans.
Everyone else was leaving and I continued to speak with her. She was asking questions about the Jewish nation. How they got where they were and why they were so loved by God. It just so happens that God has had me studying through the books of Genesis and Exodus for the last several months. Not only have I been blogging through the Bible and at this point have gotten to the passages that we needed to discuss; but I have also been doing a Bible study that started in Genesis and at this very moment has me in the middle of the issues she was bringing up.
Isn't God glorious? I don't believe for a moment that I just happened to be the one who picked up the phone when she called, or that my mind and heart have been centered in on exactly what this precious lady needed to hear. We were still on the phone at 1:00 and I had just shared with her the entire Romans road. She had a translation of the Bible that didn't read exactly like mine, so she wanted to write down all the verses. She had some confusion about her stuff (as she called it) she said "my big beautiful house, my expensive cars, you know that kind of stuff" she said, I'm afraid He (God) will take it away from me.
I said, "God doesn't need your stuff, He just wants your heart".
She wanted me to pray and she wanted to just listen. When I asked her if she prayed in her heart to receive Christ as her Savior, she said Oh I was just listening to you pray. I explained to her that she needed to pray and receive Christ as her Savior, she abruptly said, I've got to go, my husband is home.
I said, "would you please read through these verses I have given you and call me back later when we can talk further?" she said, "yes".
On my way home from church I turned my cell phone back on and I had not one message from her, but two messages from her within two minutes of each other, that were placed to me while I was in church. The voice on the other end said, "Kathy this is ......, I'm the lady you spoke with this afternoon on the phone. I'm ready, please call me back I want to pray with you. I excitedly called her back and she prayed the sinners prayer in her own words, and as she wept, she received Christ as her Savior. What a glorious end to a great day with the Lord.
At the end of our conversation, as I sat in my driveway, she said something to me that I will never forget. She said, "Kathy, I have called many of the prayer lines on the T.V. and out of all the people I have ever spoken to, you are the only one who has ever taken the time to answer my questions, and now I really understand". Praise the Lord, I said to her "......., please don't give me any praise for that, God has done what you needed in your heart, I was just the tool He used to do it. I explained to her how God had put us together on the phone and how I had been studying the exact passages that we needed to discuss, and I continued by making sure that she knew that only God could have known that she needed me that day and brought us together. We wept together, as I promised to pray for her, her husband and her son. God is so good. I praise Him today and give Him all the glory for that precious soul coming to know him.
Exodus 38-40
Making the Altar of Burnt Offering (38:1-7)
Making the Bronze Laver (38:8)
Making the Court of the Tabernacle (38:9-20)
Materials of the Tabernacle (38:21-31)
Making the Garments of the Priesthood (39:1)
Making the Ephod (39:2-7)
Making the Breastplate (39:8-21)
Making the other Priestly Garments (39:22-31)
The Work Completed (39:32-43)
Since we covered all of the fixtures, furniture and priestly garments in detail in Exodus chapters 25-31 in detail, I will not go back over all of them. God had given Moses very specific instructions, right down to the colors of thread that were to be used to embroider the curtains that were to be hung in the tabernacle. Suffice it to say that by the end of chapter 40 we have confirmation that every detail of every specification was followed right down to the purple, blue and scarlet cherubim that were skillfully embroidered on the curtains that were hung in place.
The Tabernacle Erected and Arranged Exodus 40:1-33
Remember that the tabernacle was built so that it could be taken down and moved. Though it was possible (it was what God told them to do) it was not an easy task. Remember that everything was covered in pure gold, or was built of bronze and wood, these things were not exactly light weight. However, the furniture used in the tabernacle was built with rings on the corners so that poles could be inserted and could be carried be two to four men.
The Cloud and the Glory (40:34-38)
There was a cloud that came down to hover over the tabernacle when the glory of the Lord filled it. When the cloud was there, they stayed where they were. But when the cloud was taken up they knew it was time to continue on their journey. The Bible tells us in verse 38 "For the cloud of the Lord was above the tabernacle by day, and fire was over it by night, in the sight of all the house of Israel, throughout all their journeys." This is just another example of God's love, protection and provision for his chosen people.
After our choir special, I went to my place in the seat next to my husband and settled in for one of Jeff's great messages. With great anticipation I opened my Bible to Titus chapter 2 where we have been now for a couple of weeks. One of my favorite books in the Bible. Just as I got to my place in the scripture, I gasped and looked at my husband and said, "It's my day to answer the prayer lines for the Transforming Truth ministry. So I jumped up and quickly went over to the conference room in the other building.
We had several routine calls, a couple from people who call regularly. The message had wound down and we were getting ready to leave but continued to receive calls. Everyone either had left or were on another line, when the phone in front of me rang. I picked it up and the voice on the other end sounded a little desperate. As she told me her story, I learned that she was in the bed and had to be there for at least two months. She suffers from Lupus and had a fall that left her unable to attend drive. She was watching the transforming truth ministry and expressed how much she enjoyed it.
She told me that she was born into a Jewish family, her husband is an atheist, and her son does not know the Lord. As I listened to her, I could hear in her voice that she needed desperately to share her heart with someone. It became evident that she was not a Christian and I turned in my Bible to the book of Romans.
Everyone else was leaving and I continued to speak with her. She was asking questions about the Jewish nation. How they got where they were and why they were so loved by God. It just so happens that God has had me studying through the books of Genesis and Exodus for the last several months. Not only have I been blogging through the Bible and at this point have gotten to the passages that we needed to discuss; but I have also been doing a Bible study that started in Genesis and at this very moment has me in the middle of the issues she was bringing up.
Isn't God glorious? I don't believe for a moment that I just happened to be the one who picked up the phone when she called, or that my mind and heart have been centered in on exactly what this precious lady needed to hear. We were still on the phone at 1:00 and I had just shared with her the entire Romans road. She had a translation of the Bible that didn't read exactly like mine, so she wanted to write down all the verses. She had some confusion about her stuff (as she called it) she said "my big beautiful house, my expensive cars, you know that kind of stuff" she said, I'm afraid He (God) will take it away from me.
I said, "God doesn't need your stuff, He just wants your heart".
She wanted me to pray and she wanted to just listen. When I asked her if she prayed in her heart to receive Christ as her Savior, she said Oh I was just listening to you pray. I explained to her that she needed to pray and receive Christ as her Savior, she abruptly said, I've got to go, my husband is home.
I said, "would you please read through these verses I have given you and call me back later when we can talk further?" she said, "yes".
On my way home from church I turned my cell phone back on and I had not one message from her, but two messages from her within two minutes of each other, that were placed to me while I was in church. The voice on the other end said, "Kathy this is ......, I'm the lady you spoke with this afternoon on the phone. I'm ready, please call me back I want to pray with you. I excitedly called her back and she prayed the sinners prayer in her own words, and as she wept, she received Christ as her Savior. What a glorious end to a great day with the Lord.
At the end of our conversation, as I sat in my driveway, she said something to me that I will never forget. She said, "Kathy, I have called many of the prayer lines on the T.V. and out of all the people I have ever spoken to, you are the only one who has ever taken the time to answer my questions, and now I really understand". Praise the Lord, I said to her "......., please don't give me any praise for that, God has done what you needed in your heart, I was just the tool He used to do it. I explained to her how God had put us together on the phone and how I had been studying the exact passages that we needed to discuss, and I continued by making sure that she knew that only God could have known that she needed me that day and brought us together. We wept together, as I promised to pray for her, her husband and her son. God is so good. I praise Him today and give Him all the glory for that precious soul coming to know him.
Exodus 38-40
Making the Altar of Burnt Offering (38:1-7)
Making the Bronze Laver (38:8)
Making the Court of the Tabernacle (38:9-20)
Materials of the Tabernacle (38:21-31)
Making the Garments of the Priesthood (39:1)
Making the Ephod (39:2-7)
Making the Breastplate (39:8-21)
Making the other Priestly Garments (39:22-31)
The Work Completed (39:32-43)
Since we covered all of the fixtures, furniture and priestly garments in detail in Exodus chapters 25-31 in detail, I will not go back over all of them. God had given Moses very specific instructions, right down to the colors of thread that were to be used to embroider the curtains that were to be hung in the tabernacle. Suffice it to say that by the end of chapter 40 we have confirmation that every detail of every specification was followed right down to the purple, blue and scarlet cherubim that were skillfully embroidered on the curtains that were hung in place.
The Tabernacle Erected and Arranged Exodus 40:1-33
Remember that the tabernacle was built so that it could be taken down and moved. Though it was possible (it was what God told them to do) it was not an easy task. Remember that everything was covered in pure gold, or was built of bronze and wood, these things were not exactly light weight. However, the furniture used in the tabernacle was built with rings on the corners so that poles could be inserted and could be carried be two to four men.
The Cloud and the Glory (40:34-38)
There was a cloud that came down to hover over the tabernacle when the glory of the Lord filled it. When the cloud was there, they stayed where they were. But when the cloud was taken up they knew it was time to continue on their journey. The Bible tells us in verse 38 "For the cloud of the Lord was above the tabernacle by day, and fire was over it by night, in the sight of all the house of Israel, throughout all their journeys." This is just another example of God's love, protection and provision for his chosen people.
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