storyline

"The gospel is the heart of the Bible -everything in Scripture is either

preparation for the gospel,presentation of the gospel,

or participation in the gospel.”[Dave Harvey]

Promises Made Promises Kept

TABLE OF CONTENTS____________________________________________________________

The Bible | What Does God Want of Us? .............................................................................................. 1

Old Testament | Promises Made .................... 2Old Testament Law

Genesis ................................................. 3Exodus ................................................... 5 Leviticus ................................................ 7 Numbers ................................................ 9 Deuteronomy ....................................... 11

Old Testament HistoryJoshua ................................................. 13 Judges ................................................. 15 Ruth ..................................................... 17 1 Samuel ............................................. 19 2 Samuel ............................................. 21 1 Kings ................................................. 23 2 Kings ................................................. 25 1 Chronicles ........................................ 272 Chronicles ........................................ 29 Ezra ..................................................... 31 Nehemiah ............................................ 33 Esther .................................................. 35

Old Testament PoetryJob ....................................................... 37Psalms ................................................. 39 Proverbs .............................................. 41 Ecclesiastes ........................................ 43 Song of Solomon ................................. 45

Old Testament Major ProphetsIsaiah ................................................... 47 Jeremiah .............................................. 49 Lamentations ....................................... 51Ezekiel ................................................. 53 Daniel .................................................. 55

Old Testament Minor ProphetsHosea .................................................. 57 Joel ...................................................... 59 Amos ................................................... 61 Obadiah ............................................... 63 Jonah ................................................... 65 Micah ................................................... 67 Nahum ................................................. 69 Habakkuk ............................................. 71 Zephaniah ............................................ 73 Haggai ................................................. 75 Zechariah ............................................. 77 Malachi ................................................ 79

New Testament | Promises Kept .................. 81New Testament Gospels

Matthew ................................................ 82 Mark ...................................................... 84 Luke ...................................................... 86 John ...................................................... 88

New Testament Church HistoryActs ....................................................... 90

New Testament LettersRomans ................................................ 92 1 Corinthians ........................................ 94 2 Corinthians ........................................ 96 Galatians .............................................. 98 Ephesians ........................................... 100 Philippians .......................................... 102 Colossians .......................................... 104 1 Thessalonians ................................. 106 2 Thessalonians ................................. 108 1 Timothy ............................................ 110 2 Timothy ............................................ 112 Titus .................................................... 114 Philemon ............................................. 116 Hebrews .............................................. 118 James ................................................. 120 1 Peter ................................................ 122 2 Peter ................................................ 124 1 John ................................................. 126 2 John ................................................. 128 3 John ................................................. 130 Jude .................................................... 132

New Testament ProphecyRevelation ........................................... 134

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ............. 136

RECOMMENDED RESOURCES ................... 141

The Bible What Does God Want of Us?The highest I have been above the surface of the earth is in a commercial airplane at around 34,000 feet, which is about 5,000 feet higher than Mount Everest, the highest mountain on earth above seal level. Only military pilots, astronauts, and a few daredevils have been higher! Of course, millions of people have been just as high, sitting comfortably in pressurized cabins, munching on peanuts or pretzels.

When I fly, I am going higher above sea level than anyone had ever been just one hundred years ago! While taking off, the airplane rolls along slowly. Then a pause comes and it lurches into a higher gear. Seconds later I look out the window and see that I am racing faster than any of the cars on the highway. Then the wheels lift off the ground, and before I know it, I am looking down at the tops of the buildings around the airport, the highways that feed into it, the layout of the city, the hills and rivers and coastline!

As a result of looking out the window, I am able to receive a whole new perspective on where I am; and because I know where I am, I can better understand where I am going and how I am getting there.

In life, we need to understand where we are going, which requires locating where we are in the first place.This sermon series, Storyline, is an attempt to help us do just that by flying higher than sermons often go, giving an overview of a each Bible book, helping us learn both where we are and where we are going. Seeing each book complement and complete the others brings a new luster to each and to the whole.

The Bible is comprised of 2 testaments, 66 books, 1,189 chapters, 31,173 verses, and 773,692 words. The 66 different books of the Bible cover different topics, they were addressed to different audiences, and they were written by approximately 40 different men over a period of approximately 1,500 years.

At the same time, the Holy Spirit was the "inspiring" author of the Bible - God "breathed out" His Word and used Spirit-filled and Spirit-led individuals to write down His Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:21). All who place their faith in Jesus have the Holy Spirit indwelling them (Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 12:13), and the Holy Spirit desires to help us to understand the Bible (1 Corinthians 2:10-16).

The purpose of a Bible summary or survey is to give a basic background of each book of the Bible, including the author, date and purpose of writing, key verses, a brief summary, and practical application. This summary and survey also includes recommended reading from each book for each day of the week and recommended resources for the Bible, in general, and each book of the Bible, in particular.

If you have questions about the Bible, in general, or the Old Testament and New Testament, in particular, then please read the frequently asked questions and check out the recommended resources located at the end of this Bible summary and survey.

I sincerely hope the following Bible summary and survey enables you to learn more about God’s truth, and encourages you to live what you have learned for God’s glory, your joy, and the good of all people.

Kyle GennicksLead Pastor

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 1

Old Testament Promises MadeNot everyone who reads the Bible regards it as one whole, because some ignore the Old Testament. We mine it for good stories about David, Joseph, or Moses, or for good examples for our kids to emulate. We sentimentalize a few of our favorite proverbs and psalms. But on the whole, we ignore it.

If you are a Christian, you know of God’s revelation of Himself in Jesus recorded in the New Testament. Yet if you ignore the Old Testament, you ignore the very basis and foundation of the New Testament. The context for understanding who Jesus is and what Jesus has done is only found in the Old Testament. God’s work of creation, our rebellion against Him, sin’s consequence of death, God’s election of a people, His revelation of sin through the law, the history of His people, His work among other peoples, on and on. All these form the setting for Christ’s coming. Christ came in history at a particular point in the Storyline. So the parables taught by Jesus in the Gospels often refer back to the Storyline that began in Genesis. His verbal battles with the Pharisees are rooted in differences over the meaning of the Old Testament law. And the epistles build upon the Old Testament again and again. Understanding God’s purpose in history, understanding the Storyline, requires us to begin at the beginning. If we understand the Old Testament, we will understanding the New Testament and understand God, Jesus Christ, Christianity, and ourselves. In other words, if we understand God’s promises made, we will stand under God’s promises kept.

The 39 books of the Old Testament are divided into 5 sections:

• Law | Genesis through Deuteronomy• History | Joshua through Esther• Poetry | Job through Song of Solomon• Major Prophets | Isaiah through Daniel• Minor Prophets | Hosea through Malachi

The 39 books of the Old Testament were written from approximately 1400 B.C. to approximately 400 B.C., primarily in Hebrew, with a few small sections written in Aramaic (essentially a variation of Hebrew).

The Old Testament deals primarily with the relationship between God and the nation of Israel:

• Law deals with the creation of Israel and God establishing a covenant relationship with Israel.• History records Israel's history, its victories and successes along with its defeats and failures. • Poetry presents God's relationship with Israel and His passion for Israel to worship and obey Him.• Prophets are God's call to Israel to repent and return to a relationship of faithfulness and obedience.

Perhaps a better title would be the First Testament. The word "old" tends to give the idea of "outdated” - that could not be further from the truth.

If you have questions about the Bible, in general, or the Old Testament and New Testament, in particular, then please read the frequently asked questions and check out the recommended resources located at the end of this Bible summary and survey.

I sincerely hope you find this Old Testament summary and survey beneficial in your walk with Jesus!

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 2

OT Law Genesis God creates the world and chooses a special people

Author

While the author of the Book of Genesis is not identified, the author is traditionally assumed to be Moses, and there is no conclusive reason to deny that Moses is the author of Genesis.

Date of Writing

The Book of Genesis does not state when it was written. The date of authorship is likely between 1440 and 1400 B.C., between the time Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt and his death.

Purpose of Writing

Most of the major doctrines within the entire Bible are introduced in "seed" form in the Book of Genesis. Along with the fall of mankind, God's promise of salvation or redemption is also recorded (Genesis 3:15). The doctrines of atonement, creation, depravity, grace, imputation of sin, justification, sovereignty, wrath, and many more are all addressed in this book of origins called Genesis.

Many of the great questions of life are answered in Genesis:

• Where did I come from? God created us. (Genesis 1:1)• Why am I here? We are here to have a relationship with God. (Genesis 15:6)• Where am I going? We have a destination after death. (Genesis 25:8)

Genesis appeals to the farmer, the historian, the housewife, the scientist, the theologian, the traveler, and the man or woman of God. As such, it is a fitting beginning for God's Storyline of His plan for mankind.

Key Verses

“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis 1:1)

“I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel.” (Genesis 3:15)

“And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” (Genesis 12:2-3)

“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.” (Genesis 50:20)

Brief Summary

The Book of Genesis can be divided into the two sections of Primitive History and Patriarchal History: Primitive History records creation (Genesis 1-2), the fall of man (Genesis 3-5), the flood (Genesis 6-9); and the dispersion (Genesis 10-11), and Patriarchal History records the lives of four great men: Abraham (Genesis 12:1-25:8), Isaac (Genesis 21:1-35:29), Jacob (Genesis 25:21-50:14), and Joseph (Genesis 30:22-50:26).

God created humanity to have a relationship with Him in a universe that was good and free from sin. However, Adam and Eve sinned and thereby brought evil and death into the world as a consequence. Evil increased steadily in the world until there was only one family in which God found anything good. God sent the flood to wipe out evil, but delivered Noah and his family along with the animals in the ark. After the flood, humanity began again to multiply and spread throughout the world.

God chose Abraham, through whom He would create a chosen people and also the promised Messiah. The chosen line was passed on to Abraham's son Isaac, and then eventually on to Isaac's son Jacob. God changed his name to Israel, and his twelve sons became the ancestors of the twelve tribes of Israel. In His sovereignty, God had Jacob's son Joseph sent to Egypt by the hateful actions of Joseph's brothers. This act, intended for evil by the brothers, was intended for good by God and eventually resulted in Jacob and his family being saved from a devastating famine by Joseph, who had risen to great power in Egypt.

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Preparation for the Gospel

Many New Testament themes have their roots in Genesis:

• Jesus Christ is the Seed of the woman who will destroy Satan’s power (Genesis 3:15).• As with Joseph, God’s plan for the good of mankind through the sacrifice of His Son was intended for good, even though those who crucified Jesus intended it for evil.• Noah and his family are the first of many remnants pictured in the Bible.• The faith displayed by Abraham would be the gift of God and the basis of salvation for both Jew and Gentile (Ephesians 2:8-9; Hebrews 11).

Practical Application

The overriding theme of the book of Genesis is God’s eternal existence and His creation of the world. The author does not defend the existence of God; he states that God is, always was, and always will be. In the same way, we have confidence in these truths, despite the claims of those who would deny them. All people, regardless of culture, language, or nationality, are accountable to the one true Creator God. But because of our sin, which was introduced into the world at the fall, we are separated from Him. But we rejoice that through one nation, Israel, God’s redemption was revealed and made available to all!

Because God created and sustains the universe, we can trust Him to handle the concerns in our lives. God can take a hopeless situation, something like Abraham and Sarah being childless at an older age, and do amazing things if we will simply trust and obey. Terrible and unjust things may happen in our lives, like Joseph, but God always brings about a greater good if we have faith in Him and His sovereign plan. “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

Rec#mended Reading for Genesis

Sunday Creation Genesis 1:1-5, 26-31; 2:7-22 Monday The Fall Genesis 3:1-24

Tuesday The Flood Genesis 6:1-7; 7:7-24; 8:6-11, 18-22; 9:1-16 Wednesday Beginning of Languages Genesis 11:1-9

Thursday Abraham’s Call & Covenant Genesis 12:1-9; 13:14-18; 15:1-21; 17:4-8; 22:15-20; 26:1-5; 28:10-15 Friday Story of Joseph Genesis 37:1-36; 42:1-38

Saturday Jacob’s Final Blessing Genesis 49:1-33

Rec#mended Resources for Genesis

Wenham, Gordon J. Genesis. 2 Vols. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 1987.

Hamilton, Victor P. The Book of Genesis. 2 Vols. NICOT. Eerdmans, 1990.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 4

OT Law Exodus God delivers His people, the Israelites, from slavery in Egypt

Author

Moses was the author of the Book of Exodus. (Exodus 17:14; 24:4-7; 34:27)

Date of Writing

The Book of Exodus was written between 1440 and 1400 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

The word “exodus” means departure. In God's timing, the exodus of the Israelites from the land of Egypt marked the end of a period of slavery and suffering for the descendants of Abraham (Genesis 15:13), and the beginning of the fulfillment of the covenant promise to Abraham that his descendants would not only live in the Promised Land, but would also multiply and become a great nation (Genesis 12:1-3, 7). The purpose of the book may be expressed as tracing the rapid growth of Jacob's descendants from Egypt to the establishment of the theocratic nation in their Promised Land.

Key Verses

“Now there arose a new king over Egypt, who did not know Joseph.” (Exodus 1:8)

“And God heard their groaning, and God remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob. God saw the people of Israel - and God knew.” (Exodus 2:24-25)

“‘It is the sacrifice of the LORD's Passover, for he passed over the houses of the people of Israel in Egypt, when he struck the Egyptians but spared our houses.’ And the people bowed their heads and worshiped.” l(Exodus 12:27)

“I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.”“You shall have no other gods before me.” (Exodus 20:2-3)

Brief Summary

Exodus begins right where Genesis leaves off, as God works on behalf of His chosen people, the Jews. It traces the events from the time Israel entered Egypt as guests of Joseph, who was powerful in Egypt, until they were eventually delivered from the cruel bondage of slavery into which they had been brought by “...a new king...who did not know Joseph.” (Exodus 1:8)

Chapters 1-14 describe the slavery of the Jews under Pharaoh, the rise of Moses as their deliverer, the plagues God brought upon Egypt for Pharaoh’s refusal to submit to Him, and the exodus from Egypt. God’s sovereign hand is seen in the miracles of the plagues - ending with the death of the firstborn and the institution of the first Passover - the deliverance of the Israelite nation, the parting of the Red Sea, and the destruction of the Egyptian army.

The middle of Exodus is focused on the Israelite’s wilderness wandering and God’s miraculous provision. But even though He gave them bread from heaven, sweet water from bitter water, water from a rock, victory over those who would destroy them, His law written upon tablets of stone by His very own hand, and His presence in the form of pillars of fire and cloud, the people grumbled and rebelled against Him.

The last part of Exodus details the construction of the Ark of the Covenant and the plan for the Tabernacle with its various altars, ceremonies, furniture, sacrifices, and forms of worship.

Preparation for the Gospel

The sacrifices made by the Israelites were a picture of the ultimate sacrifice, the Passover Lamb of God, Jesus Christ. The night of the last plague on Egypt, an unblemished lamb was killed and its blood was applied to the outer doorposts of the houses of God’s people, protecting them from the angel of death. This prepared the way for the sacrifice of Jesus, the Lamb of God without spot or blemish (1 Peter 1:19), whose blood applied to us ensures eternal life.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 5

Among the symbolic preparations of Christ in Exodus is the water coming from the rock in Exodus 17:6. As Moses struck the rock to provide life-giving water for the people, God struck the Rock of our salvation, crucifying Him for our sin, and from the Rock came the gift of living water (John 4:10).

The provision of manna in the wilderness is a perfect preparation for Christ, the Bread of Life (John 6:48), provided by God to give us life.

Practical Application

The law was given to show us that we are unable to keep it and unable to please God by law-keeping; therefore, Paul exhorts us to believe “...in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.” (Galatians 2:16)

God’s provision for the Israelites, from deliverance from slavery to the manna and quail in the wilderness, are clear indications of His gracious provision for His people. God has promised to supply all our needs. Because “God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” l(1 Corinthians 1:9).

We are to trust in the Lord, for He can deliver us from anyone or anything that holds us in slavery to sin. He does not allow sin to go unpunished forever. As a result, we trust Him in His retribution and justice. When God removes us from sinfulness, we should not seek to go back. When He makes demands of us, He expects us to obey, but at the same time He provides His grace and mercy because He knows that, on our own, we will not be able to fully obey.

Rec#mended Reading for Exodus

Sunday Bondage Exodus 1:1-22 Monday The Call of Moses Exodus 3:1-4:31

Tuesday The Plagues Exodus 7:20-11:10 Wednesday The Passover Exodus 12:1-51

Thursday The Law Exodus 20:1-26 Friday The Worship Exodus 25:1-9; 28:1-14, 30-43

Saturday Moses’ Commission Renewed Exodus 33:12-34:17

Rec#mended Resources for Exodus

Enns, Peter P. Exodus. NIVAC. Zondervan, 2000.

Stuart, Douglas. Exodus. NAC. Broadman Holman, 2006.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 6

OT Law Leviticus A holy God explains how to worship Him

Author

Moses was the author of the Book of Leviticus.

Date of Writing

The Book of Leviticus was written between 1440 and 1400 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

Because the Israelite nation had been held in bondage as slaves in the land of Egypt for some 400 years, their belief in the one true God had been distorted by the belief in the many gods of the pagan Egyptians. The book of Leviticus provides instruction to guide redeemed people in their relationship with a holy God. That’s why there is an emphasis in Leviticus on the need for personal holiness in response to a holy God. One of the major themes is that sin must be atoned for through the offering of proper sacrifices (8-10). Other topics are childbirth, clean and unclean food, and diseases which are carefully regulated (11-15). The Day of Atonement is described as an annual sacrifice is made for the collective sin of the people (16). Furthermore, the people of God are to be intentional in their personal lives - both morally and socially - in contrast to the then-current practices of the heathens around them (17-22).

Key Verses

“He shall lay his hand on the head of the burnt offering, and it shall be accepted for him to make atonement for him.” (Leviticus 1:4)

“For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it for you on the altar to make atonement for your souls, for it is the blood that makes atonement by the life.” (Leviticus 17:11)

“You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD.” (Leviticus 19:18)

Brief Summary

Chapters 1-7 outline the offerings required of both the people and the priesthood.Chapters 8-10 describe the consecration of Aaron and his sons to the priesthood.Chapters 11-16 are the prescriptions for various types of uncleanness.Chapters 17-27 are God’s guidelines to His people for practical holiness.

Feasts were instituted in the people's worship of God, prepared and practiced according to God's laws. Blessings or curses accompany either the keeping or neglect of God's commandments (chapter 26). Vows to the Lord are covered, as well (chapter 27).

The primary theme of Leviticus is the holiness of God’s people based upon the holiness of God Himself. Holiness must be maintained before God, and holiness can only be attained through a proper atonement.

Preparation for the Gospel

Much of the practices of worship prepare us for the person and work of our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. Hebrews 10 tells us that the law is “a shadow of the good things to come” which means that the daily sacrifices offered by the priests for the sin of the people were a representation of the ultimate Sacrifice -Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice would be once and for all time for those who would come to believe in Him. The holiness imparted temporarily by the law would one day be replaced by the absolute attainment of holiness when Christians exchanged their sin for the righteousness of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21).

Practical Application

God takes His holiness seriously, and so should we. The trend has been to create God in our own image, giving Him the attributes that we would like for Him to have instead of the ones that His Word describes. God’s holiness, splendor, and “unapproachable light” (1 Timothy 6:16) are foreign to many Christians.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 7

We are called to walk in the light and to put away the darkness so that we may be pleasing in His sight. A holy God cannot tolerate unrepentant sin among His people and His holiness requires Him to punish it. We dare not be flippant in our attitudes toward sin or God’s hatred of it, nor should we make light of it.

Praise the Lord that because of Jesus' death on our behalf, we no longer have to offer animal sacrifices! Leviticus is all about substitution. The death of the animals was a substitute penalty for those who sinned. In the same way, but infinitely better, the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross was the substitute for our sins. Now we can stand before a holy God without fear because He sees in us the righteousness of Christ!

Rec#mended Reading for Leviticus

Sunday Burnt Offering Leviticus 1:1-17 Monday The Priests Leviticus 8:1-36

Tuesday Pure Food Laws Leviticus 11:1-47 Wednesday The Day of Atonement Leviticus 16:1-34

Thursday The Feasts of Jehovah Leviticus 23:1-44 Friday God’s Pledge Leviticus 26:1-46

Saturday Dedication Leviticus 27:1-34

Rec#mended Resources for Leviticus

Wenham, Gordon J. The Book of Leviticus. NICOT. Eerdmans, 1979.

Hartley, John E. Leviticus. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 1992.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 8

OT Law Numbers Faithless Israelites wander forty years in the wilderness of Sinai

Author

Moses was the author of the Book of Numbers.

Date of Writing

The Book of Numbers was written between 1440 and 1400 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

The message of the Book of Numbers reminds believers of the spiritual warfare in which they are engaged, for Numbers is the book of the service and walk of God's people, bridging the gap between the Israelites receiving the law (Exodus and Leviticus) and going to the Promised Land (Deuteronomy and Joshua).

Key Verses

"The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." (Numbers 6:24-26)

“If there is a prophet among you, I the LORD make myself known to him in a vision; I speak with him in a dream. Not so with my servant Moses. He is faithful in all my house. With him I speak mouth to mouth, clearly, and not in riddles, and he beholds the form of the LORD. Why then were you not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?” (Numbers 12:6-8)

“...not one shall come into the land where I swore that I would make you dwell, except Caleb the son of Jephunneh and Joshua the son of Nun. But your little ones, who you said would become a prey, I will bring in, and they shall know the land that you have rejected. But as for you, your dead bodies shall fall in this wilderness. And your children shall be shepherds in the wilderness forty years and shall suffer for your faithlessness, until the last of your dead bodies lies in the wilderness. According to the number of the days in which you spied out the land, forty days, a year for each day, you shall bear your iniquity forty years, and you shall know my displeasure.” (Numbers 14:30-34)

Brief Summary

The Book of Numbers takes place between the second and fortieth years of wandering in the wilderness. Chapters 1-25 of the book chronicle the experiences of the first generation of Israel in the wilderness, while the rest of the book (chapters 26-36) describes the experiences of the second generation of Israel. The theme of obedience and rebellion followed by repentance and blessing runs through the entire book, as well as the entire Old Testament.

The theme of the holiness of God is also continued from the book of Leviticus into the book of Numbers, which reveals God's instruction for and preparation of His people to enter the Promised Land of Canaan. The importance of the Book of Numbers is indicated by it often being referred to in the New Testament. The Holy Spirit called special attention to Numbers in 1 Corinthians 10:1-12 - the words "these things took place as examples" refers to the sin of the Israelites and God’s displeasure with them.

In Romans 11:22 Paul speaks of the "the kindness and the severity of God,” the message of Numbers. The severity of God is seen in the death of the sinful generation who never entered the Promised Land. The kindness of God is realized in the new generation, as He preserved, and protected, and provided for these people until they possessed the land. The justice and love of God are always in harmony.

Preparation for the Gospel

God’s demand for holiness is satisfied in Jesus, who came to fulfill the law on our behalf (Matthew 5:17). The image in chapter 19 of the sacrifice of the red heifer “without defect, in which there is no blemish” prepares us for Jesus, the perfect Lamb of God without spot or blemish who was sacrificed for our sins. The image in chapter 21 of the bronze snake lifted up on the pole to provide physical healing prepares us for the lifting up of Jesus on the cross, that whoever looks to Him by faith may have spiritual healing.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 9

In chapter 24, Balaam’s fourth oracle speaks of the star and the scepter who is to rise out of Jacob. Here is a prophecy of Jesus who is called the "morning star" in Revelation 22:16 for His bright splendor, and for light that comes by Him. He may also be referred to as a scepter bearer because of His royalty. He has the name of a king and a kingdom, and rules with a scepter of grace, mercy, and righteousness.

Practical Application

One major theme from Numbers is that sin and unbelief, especially rebellion, reap the judgment of God. 1 Corinthians 10 says that these events were written as examples for believers to observe and avoid. We are not to “desire evil as they did” (10:6), or be sexually immoral (10:8), or put Christ to the test (10:9), or grumble (10:10).

As the Israelites wandered in the wilderness 40 years because of their rebellion, God sometimes allows us to wander away from Him and suffer a lack of blessings and loneliness when we rebel against Him. But God is faithful and just, and as He restored the Israelites to their rightful place in His redemptive plan, He will always restore Christians to the place of blessing and intimate fellowship with Him if we repent and return to Him (1 John 1:9).

Rec#mended Reading for Numbers

Sunday The Guiding Cloud Numbers 9:15-23 Monday The Report of the Spies Numbers 13:16-33

Tuesday Israel’s Unbelief Numbers 14:1-45 Wednesday Water from the Rock Numbers 20:1-13

Thursday The Brazen Serpent Numbers 21:1-9 Friday Balaam’s Feast Numbers 22:1-41

Saturday The Cities of Refuge Numbers 35:6-34

Rec#mended Resources for Numbers

Wenham, Gordon J. Numbers. TOTC. InterVarsity Press, 2008.

Cole, R. Dennis. Numbers. NAC. Broadman Holman, 2000.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 10

OT Law Deuteronomy Moses reminds the Israelites of their history and God’s laws

Author

Moses wrote the Book of Deuteronomy. It is a collection of sermons to Israel before crossing the Jordan. “These are the words that Moses spoke...” (1:1). (Note: Joshua may have written the last chapter.)

Date of Writing

The sermons were preached in 1410 B.C. during a 40-day period before Israel entered the Promised Land.

Purpose of Writing

A new generation of Israelites was about to enter the Promised Land with many dangers and temptations. No one in this multitude had experienced the miracle at the Red Sea or heard the law given at Mt. Sinai, and so the book of Deuteronomy was given to remind them of God’s law and God’s power.

Key Verses

“You shall not add to the word that I command you, nor take from it, that you may keep the commandments of the LORD your God that I command you.” (Deuteronomy 4:2)

“Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.” (Deuteronomy 6:4-7)

“...he said to them, ‘Take to heart all the words by which I am warning you today, that you may command them to your children, that they may be careful to do all the words of this law. For it is no empty word for you, but your very life, and by this word you shall live long in the land that you are going over the Jordan to possess.’” (Deuteronomy 32:46-47)

Brief Summary

The Israelites are called to remember four things: God’s faithfulness, holiness, blessings, and warnings. Chapters 1-3 recap the trip from Egypt to their current location, Moab. Chapter 4 is a call to obedience, to be faithful to the God who was faithful to them.

Chapters 5-26 are a repetition of the law; the Ten Commandments, laws on sacrifices and specials days, and the rest of the law are given to the new generation. God’s blessings are promised to those who obey (5:29; 6:17-19; 11:13-15) and famine is promised to those who break the law (11:16-17).

The theme of blessing and cursing is continued in chapters 27-30, ending with a choice set before Israel: “I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse.” God’s desire for His people is found in what He recommends: “choose life.” (30:19)

Finally, in chapters 31-34, Moses encourages the people; he commissions his replacement, Joshua; he records a song; he gives a final blessing to each of the tribes of Israel; and he sees the Promised Land. At 120 years of age, with good eyesight and the strength of youth, he died in the presence of the Lord, and the book of Deuteronomy ends with a short obituary on this great prophet.

Preparation for the Gospel

One New Testament theme is the necessity of perfectly keeping the law and the impossibility of doing so. The endless sacrifices necessary to atone for the sins of the people - who continually broke the law - would find their fulfillment in the final “once for all” sacrifice of Jesus, the Lamb of God (Hebrews 10:10). Because of His atoning work on the cross, we would need no further sacrifices for sin.

God choosing His people foreshadows His choosing of those who would believe in Christ (1 Peter 2:9). In Deuteronomy 18:15-19, Moses prophesies of another prophet - the Prophet to come who is the Messiah. Like Moses, He would receive and preach divine revelation and He would lead His people (John 6:14; 7:40).

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Practical Application

The book of Deuteronomy underscores the importance of God’s Word, that it is a vital part of our lives. Although we are no longer under the law, we are still responsible to submit to the will of God in our lives - simple obedience brings blessing, and sin has its own consequences.

None of us is “above the law.” Even Moses, the leader and prophet chosen by God, was required to obey; and he was not allowed to enter the Promised Land because he disobeyed the Lord. (Numbers 20:13)

While tempted in the wilderness, Jesus quoted from the book of Deuteronomy three times (Matthew 4:1-11), illustrating that we must hide God’s Word in our hearts that we might not sin against Him (Psalm 119:11).

As Israel remembered God’s faithfulness, so should we: crossing the Red Sea, His presence at Sinai, and the blessing of manna in the desert should be a timeless truth of encouragement to us, as well. A great way to keep pressing forward is to take some time to look back and see what God has done.

We also have a picture in Deuteronomy of a loving God who longs for a relationship with His children. He brought Israel out of Egypt “with a mighty hand” and redeemed them in His love (Deuteronomy 7:7-9). What a wonderful thing to be free from the bondage of sin and loved by an all-powerful God!

Rec#mended Reading for Deuteron#y

Sunday Forward March Deuteronomy 1:6-46 Monday Instructions Deuteronomy 5:1-33; 6:4-18

Tuesday The Messiah, Prophet Deuteronomy 18:15-22 Wednesday God’s Covenant Deuteronomy 30:1-20

Thursday The Song of Moses Deuteronomy 32:1-44 Friday God’s Blessings Deuteronomy 33:1-29

Saturday The Death of Moses Deuteronomy 34:1-12

Rec#mended Resources for Deuteron#y

Craigie, Peter C. The Book of Deuteronomy. NICOT. Eerdmans, 1976.

Wright, Christopher. Deuteronomy. NIBCOT. Hendrickson Publishers, 1996.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 12

OT History Joshua The Israelites capture and settle the promised land of Canaan

Author

More than likely Joshua the son of Nun, the successor of Moses as leader over Israel, wrote this book. However, the latter part of the book was written by at least one other person after the death of Joshua.

Date of Writing

The Book of Joshua was likely written between 1400 and 1370 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

The Book of Joshua provides an overview of the military conquests of the land that God had promised. Following Israel’s exodus from Egypt and their subsequent forty years of wandering in the wilderness, the newly-formed nation enters the Promised Land, conquers the inhabitants, and occupies the territory. The overview that we have here gives details of many of the battles and the manner in which the land was conquered and divided into tribal areas.

Key Verses

“Be strong and courageous, for you shall cause this people to inherit the land that I swore to their fathers to give them. Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go. This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:6-9)

“Now therefore fear the LORD and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness. Put away the gods that your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the LORD, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” (Joshua 24:14-15)

Brief Summary

Joshua continues the story of the Israelites after the exodus from Egypt and wandering in the wilderness. The book records 20 years of Joshua’s leadership after Moses appointed him at the end of Deuteronomy. The twenty-four chapter divisions of the Book of Joshua can be summarized as follows:

Chapters 1-12: entering and conquering the Promised LandChapters 13-22: instructions for distributing the portions of the Promised LandChapters 23-24: Joshua’s farewell address

Preparation for the Gospel

Rahab’s great faith in the God of the Israelites gives her a place with those who are honored for their faith. (Hebrews 11:31) Hers is a story of God’s grace to sinners and salvation by faith alone. Most importantly, by God’s grace she was in the family tree of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. (Matthew 1:5)

The ceremonial ritual that we read about in Joshua 5:1-9 finds its perfect fulfillment in the New Testament. God called the males born in the wilderness to be circumcised when they came into the Promised Land. By so doing, God “rolled away the reproach of Egypt” from them, cleansing them from their former sins. Colossians 2:10-12 says that believers have been circumcised in their hearts by Jesus Christ Himself, by whom we have put off the sinful nature of our former lives without Christ.

God established cities of refuge for those who accidentally killed someone to live without fear of retribution. Christ is our refuge to whom we “have fled...to hold fast to the hope set before us.” (Hebrews 6:18)

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After wandering in the wilderness for 40 years, the Israelites entered the rest God had prepared for them. And he writer of Hebrews warns us to not let unbelief keep us from entering into God’s rest in Christ (Hebrews 3:7-12).

Practical Application

A key verse found in the Book of Joshua is 1:8, “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it.” The Old Testament shows how the people “forgot” God and His Word and suffered consequences. For the Christian, the Word of God is our life-giving blood. If we neglect it, our lives will suffer accordingly. But, if we take to heart this key verse (1:8), we will be complete and able to be of use in God’s kingdom (2 Timothy 3:16-17), and we will find that God’s promises in Joshua 1:8-9 will be ours as well.

Joshua is a prime example of the benefits of a godly mentor. For years he remained very close to Moses. He watched Moses as he followed God in holiness. He learned how to pray in a personal way from Moses. He learned how to obey through the example of Moses. He also learned from Moses’ negative examples. If you are alive, you are a mentor. Someone, somewhere, is watching you. They are watching you closely. Some younger person or someone that you are influencing is seeing how you live and how you react. Someone is learning from you. Someone will follow your example. Mentoring is far more than the words that are spoken by the lips of the mentor; it is also the works that are shown in his or her entire life.

Rec#mended Reading for Joshua

Sunday Joshua’s Commission Joshua 1:1-2:24 Monday Crossing the Jordan Joshua 3:1-17

Tuesday The Fall of Jericho Joshua 6:1-27 Wednesday The Sin of Achan Joshua 7:1-26

Thursday Occupation of the Land Joshua 11:1-23 Friday Caleb’s Possession Joshua 14:1-15

Saturday Joshua’s Farewell Joshua 24:1-33

Rec#mended Resources for Joshua

Hess, Richard S. Joshua: An Introduction and Commentary. TOTC. IVP Academic, 2008.

Woudstra, Marten H. The Book of Joshua. NICOT. Eerdmans, 1981.

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OT History Judges Israel goes through cycles of sin, suffering, and salvation

Author

The Book of Judges does not specifically name its author, but the tradition is that Samuel was the author. Evidence within the book indicates that the author of Judges lived shortly after the period of the Judges, and Samuel fits this qualification.

Date of Writing

The Book of Judges was likely written between 1045 and 1000 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

The Book of Judges can be divided into two sections:

1) Chapters 1-16 records the wars of deliverance beginning with the Israelites' defeat of the Canaanites and ending with the defeat of the Philistines and the death of Samson;

2) Chapters 17-21 is referred to as an appendix and does not relate to the previous chapters. They reflect on a time when “there was no king in Israel...” (Judges 17:6; 18:1; 19:1; 21:25)

Key Verses

“Then the LORD raised up judges, who saved them out of the hand of those who plundered them. Yet they did not listen to their judges, for they whored after other gods and bowed down to them. They soon turned aside from the way in which their fathers had walked, who had obeyed the commandments of the LORD, and they did not do so. Whenever the LORD raised up judges for them, the LORD was with the judge, and he saved them from the hand of their enemies all the days of the judge. For the LORD was moved to pity by their groaning because of those who afflicted and oppressed them. But whenever the judge died, they turned back and were more corrupt than their fathers, going after other gods, serving them and bowing down to them. They did not drop any of their practices or their stubborn ways.” (Judges 2:16-19)

“And the people of Israel said to the LORD, ‘We have sinned; do to us whatever seems good to you. Only please deliver us this day.’” (Judges 10:15)

“In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” (Judges 21:25)

Brief Summary

The Book of Judges is a tragic account of how God was taken for granted by His children year after year, a sad contrast to the book of Joshua which reveals the blessings God gave to Israel for their obedience. In Judges, they were disobedient and idolatrous, leading to their many defeats; yet God has never failed to open His arms in love to His people whenever they repent from their sin and call upon His name. (Judges 2:18) Through the judges, God kept His promise to Abraham to protect and bless his offspring. (Genesis 12:2-3)

After the death of Joshua and his generation, the Israelites returned to worshiping Ashtaroth and Baal. Therefore, God allowed the Israelites to suffer the horrible consequences of worshiping these false gods. It was then that His people cried out to Him for help and He sent judges to lead them in righteous living. But time after time they would turn their backs on God and return to their lives of sinful wickedness. However, keeping His part of the covenant with Abraham, God would again save His people from their oppressors throughout the 480-year span of the Book of Judges.

Probably the most notable judge was Samson, who came to lead the Israelites after a 40-year captivity under the rule of the Philistines. Samson led God’s people to victory over the Philistines where he lost his own life after 20 years as judge of Israel.

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Preparation for the Gospel

The announcement to Samson’s mother that she would bear a son to lead Israel is a preparation of the announcement to Mary of the birth of Jesus. God sent His angel to both women and told them they would “conceive and bear a son” (Judges 13:7; Luke 1:31) who would lead God’s people.

God delivering His people despite their sin and rejection of Him presents a picture of Jesus on the cross, that Jesus died to deliver God’s people - all who would ever believe in Him - from their sin against God. Although most of those who followed Jesus during His ministry would eventually fall away and reject Him, He still remained faithful to His promise and went to the cross to die for us.

Practical Application

Disobedience always brings judgment. The Israelites present a perfect example of what we are not to do; that if we continue in disobedience, we invite God’s discipline - not because He enjoys our suffering, but “...the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives." (Hebrews 12:6)

Judges is all about God’s faithfulness. Even “...if we are faithless, he remains faithful...” (2 Timothy 2:13) Though we may be unfaithful to Him, as the Israelites were, He is still faithful to save us and preserve us (1 Thessalonians 5:24) and to forgive us when we confess our sin to Him seek forgiveness (1 John 1:9). God “...will sustain you to the end, guiltless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” (1 Corinthians 1:8-9).

Rec#mended Reading for Judges

Sunday Only Partial Victories Judges 1:1-2:5 Monday Institution of the Judges Judges 2:16-3:11

Tuesday Deborah & Barak Judges 4:4-5:31 Wednesday Gideon, the Farmer Judges 6:1-16; 7:16-25

Thursday Jephthah’s Terrible Vow Judges 11:12-40 Friday Samson, the Strong Man Judges 15:1-16:31

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for Judges

Block, Daniel I. Judges-Ruth. NAC. Broadman Holman, 1999.

Davis, Dale Ralph. Judges. FB. Christian Focus Publications, 2000.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 16

OT History Ruth Loyal daughter-in-law pictures God’s faithfulness, love, and care

Author

The Book of Ruth does not specifically name its author, but the tradition is that it was written by Samuel.

Date of Writing

The exact date the Book of Ruth was written is uncertain, but it was likely between 1011 and 931 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

The Book of Ruth was written to the Israelites, teaching that genuine love will always require sacrifice. We can live according to the truth of God, no matter what. Genuine love and kindness will be rewarded. God blesses those who seek to live obediently, as obedience does not allow for "accidents" in God's plan. God extends mercy to the merciful.

Key Verses

“But Ruth said, ‘Do not urge me to leave you or to return from following you. For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God.’” (Ruth 1:16)

“He said, ‘Who are you?’ And she answered, ‘I am Ruth, your servant. Spread your wings over your servant, for you are a redeemer.’” (Ruth 3:9)

“And the women of the neighborhood gave him a name, saying, ‘A son has been born to Naomi.’ They named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David.” (Ruth 4:17)

Brief Summary

The setting for the Book of Ruth begins in the pagan country of Moab, but then moves to Bethlehem, taking place during the days of the failure and rebellion of the Israelites, called the period of the Judges. A famine forces Elimelech and his wife, Naomi, from their Israelite home to the country of Moab. Elimelech dies and Naomi is left with her two sons, who soon marry two Moabite girls, Orpah and Ruth. Later both of Naomi’s sons die, as well, and Naomi is left alone with Orpah and Ruth in a strange land. Orpah returns to her parents, but Ruth is determined to stay with Naomi as they journey to Bethlehem. This story of love and devotion tells of Ruth's eventual marriage to a wealthy man by the name of Boaz, by whom she bears a son, Obed, who becomes the grandfather of David and the ancestor of Jesus. Obedience brings Ruth into the privileged lineage of Christ.

Preparation for the Gospel

A theme of the Book of Ruth is the kinsman-redeemer. Boaz, a relative of Ruth on her husband’s side, acted upon his duty in the Mosaic Law to redeem an impoverished relative from his or her circumstances (Leviticus 25:47-49). This scenario is repeated by Jesus, who redeems us, the spiritually impoverished, from the slavery of sin. Our heavenly Father sent His own Son to the cross so that we might become children of God and brothers and sisters of Christ - in being our Redeemer, He makes us His kinsmen.

Practical Application

God guided Ruth to become His child and fulfill His plan for her to be an ancestor of Jesus. (Matthew 1:5) In the same way, we have assurance that God has a plan for each of us - just as Naomi and Ruth trusted Him to provide for them, so should we.

We see in Ruth an example of the woman of Proverbs 31:10-31. In addition to being devoted to her family (Ruth 1:15-18; Proverbs 31:10-12) and also faithfully dependent upon God (Ruth 2:12; Proverbs 31:30), we see in Ruth a woman of godly speech, using kind, loving, and respectful words to Naomi and to Boaz. Ruth “...opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.” (Proverbs 31:26) We could search far and wide to find a woman today as worthy of being our role model as Ruth.

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Rec#mended Reading for Ruth

Sunday The Life of Ruth | Part 1 Ruth 1:1-22 Monday Grace Day!

Tuesday The Life of Ruth | Part 2 Ruth 2:1-23 Wednesday Grace Day!

Thursday The Life of Ruth | Part 3 Ruth 3:1-18 Friday Grace Day!

Saturday The Life of Ruth | Part 4 Ruth 4:1-22

Rec#mended Resources for Ruth

Block, Daniel I. Judges-Ruth. NAC. Broadman Holman, 1999.

Hubbard, Robert L. The Book of Ruth. NICOT. Eerdmans, 1989.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 18

OT History 1 Samuel Israel’s twelve tribes unite under a king

Author

While the author remains anonymous, it is very possible that Samuel wrote part of this book, as well. Other possible contributors to are the prophets and historians Nathan and Gad. (1 Chronicles 29:29)

Date of Writing

Originally, the books of 1 and 2 Samuel were one book; the translators of the Septuagint separated them. The events of 1 Samuel span 100 years, from 1100 to 1000 B.C. The events of 2 Samuel span 40 years. Therefore, the date of writing would be sometime after 960 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

1 Samuel records the history of Israel as they move from the rule of judges to a nation ruled by kings. Samuel emerges as the last judge, and he anoints the first two kings, Saul and David.

Key Verses

“But the thing displeased Samuel when they said, ‘Give us a king to judge us.’ And Samuel prayed to the LORD. And the LORD said to Samuel, ‘Obey the voice of the people in all that they say to you, for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected me from being king over them.’” (1 Samuel 8:6-7)

“And Samuel said to Saul, ‘You have done foolishly. You have not kept the command of the LORD your God, with which he commanded you. For then the LORD would have established your kingdom over Israel forever. But now your kingdom shall not continue. The LORD has sought out a man after his own heart, and the LORD has commanded him to be prince over his people, because you have not kept what the LORD commanded you.’” (1 Samuel 13:13-14)

“And Samuel said,

‘Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of divination, and presumption is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, he has also rejected you from being king.’” (1 Samuel 15:22-23)

Brief Summary

The book of 1 Samuel divides into the life of Samuel (chapters 1-12) and the life of Saul (chapters 13-31).

The book starts with the miraculous birth of Samuel in answer to his mother’s earnest prayer to the Lord. As a child, Samuel lived and served in the temple, where God singled him out as a prophet (3:19-21), and the young boy’s first prophecy was one of judgment on the corrupt priests.

The Israelites go to war with their perennial enemies, the Philistines, who capture the ark of the covenant and are in temporary possession of it; but when the Lord sends judgment, the Philistines return the ark. Samuel calls Israel to repentance (7:3-6) and then to victory over the Philistines.

The Israelites, wanting to be like the other nations, desire a king. Samuel is displeased by their demands, but the Lord tells him that it is not Samuel’s leadership they are rejecting, but they are rejecting His own. After warning the people of what having a king would mean, Samuel anoints Saul (10:17-25).

Saul enjoys success, defeating the Ammonites in battle (chapter 11), but then makes a series of missteps: presumptuously offering a sacrifice (chapter 13), making a vow at the expense of his son (chapter 14), and disobeying the Lord’s command (chapter 15). As a result of his rebellion, God chooses another king. In removing His blessing from Saul, an evil spirit begins moving Saul toward madness (16:14).

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Samuel travels to Bethlehem to anoint another young man named David as the next king (chapter 16). Later, David has his a confrontation with Goliath the Philistine and becomes a national hero (chapter 17). After this victory, David serves in Saul’s court, marries Saul’s daughter, and is befriended by Saul’s son. Saul himself grows jealous of David’s success and popularity, and, as a result, he attempts to kill David. David flees, and so begins an extraordinary time of adventure, intrigue, and romance. By God’s grace, David narrowly but consistently eludes the bloodthirsty Saul (chapters 19-26), maintaining his integrity and his friendship with Jonathan.

Near the end of the book, Samuel has died, and Saul is a lost man seeking for answers to his problems. Having rejected God, he finds no help from the Lord, and he seeks counsel from a medium instead. During the seance, Samuel’s spirit rises from the dead to give one last prophecy: Saul would die in battle. The prophecy is fulfilled: Saul’s three sons, including Jonathan, fall in battle, and Saul commits suicide.

Preparation for the Gospel

The prayer of Hannah, Samuel’s mom, in 1 Samuel 2:1-10 makes several prophetic references to Jesus. She praises God as her rock (2:2), and Jesus is the rock upon whom we must build our spiritual houses. Paul refers to Jesus as the “rock of offense” to the Jews (Romans 9:33). He is called the “spiritual Rock” who provided spiritual drink to the Israelites in the wilderness like He provides “living water” to our souls (1 Corinthians 10:4; John 4:10). Hannah refers to the Lord who will judge the ends of the earth (2:10), while Matthew 25:31-32 refers to Jesus as the Son of Man who will come in glory to judge everyone.

Practical Application

Saul is a life of wasted opportunity. Here was a man who had it all - authority, good looks, honor, riches - but he died in despair, terrified of his enemies, knowing he had failed his nation, his family, and his God.

Like many today, Saul believed Satan’s lie that his “good intentions” would compensate for bad behavior. Somehow Saul had developed a very low view of God’s commands and a very high view of himself. When confronted with his sinfulness, he attempted to vindicate himself, and God rejected him (15:16-28). Obedience to God’s is a must for believers, and if we rebel against Him, we set ourselves up for disaster.

David, on the other hand, did not seem like much at first. Even Samuel nearly overlooked him (16:6-7). But God sees the heart and saw in David a man after His own heart (13:14). David’s humility and integrity, along with his boldness for the Lord and his commitment to prayer, set a good example for all of us.

Rec#mended Reading for 1 Samuel

Sunday Samuel, “Name of God” 1 Samuel 1:1-3:21 Monday Samuel, the Prophet 1 Samuel 4:1-7:17

Tuesday Saul, the King 1 Samuel 8:1-12:25 Wednesday Saul, the Self-Willed 1 Samuel 13:1-15:35

Thursday David Anointed 1 Samuel 16:1-18:30 Friday David’s Adventures 1 Samuel 19:1-20:42; 22:1-23; 24:1-22

Saturday Death of Samuel & Saul 1 Samuel 25:1-26:25; 31:1-13

Rec#mended Resources for 1 Samuel

Bergen, Robert D. 1, 2 Samuel. NAC. Broadman Holman, 1996.

Tsumura, David Toshio. The First Book of Samuel. NICOT. Eerdmans, 2007.

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OT History 2 Samuel David becomes Israel’s greatest king - but with major flaws

Author

The Book of 2 Samuel does not identify its author, but it could not be Samuel, since he died in 1 Samuel. Possible writers include Nathan and Gad (see 1 Chronicles 29:29).

Date of Writing

Originally, the books of 1 and 2 Samuel were one book; the translators of the Septuagint separated them. The events of 1 Samuel span 100 years, from 1100 to 1000 B.C. The events of 2 Samuel span 40 years. Therefore, the date of writing would be sometime after 960 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

2 Samuel is the record of King David’s reign, placing the Davidic Covenant in its historical context.

Key Verses

“And your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me. Your throne shall be established forever.’” (2 Samuel 7:16)

“The king covered his face, and the king cried with a loud voice, ‘O my son Absalom, O Absalom, my son, my son!’” (2 Samuel 19:4)

“The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge,my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge, my savior; you save me from violence.I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies.” (2 Samuel 22:2-4)

Brief Summary

The book of 2 Samuel divides into David’s triumphs (chapters 1-10) and David’s troubles (chapters 11-20). The last part of the book (chapters 21-24) is an appendix which contains further details of David’s reign.

The book begins with David receiving news of the death of Saul and he proclaims a time of mourning. Soon afterward, David is crowned king over Judah, while Ish-bosheth, one of Saul’s surviving sons, is crowned king over Israel (chapter 2). A civil war follows, but Ish-bosheth is murdered, and the Israelites ask David to reign over them as well (chapters 4-5).

David moves the country’s capital to Jerusalem and later moves the Ark of the Covenant (chapters 5-6). David’s plan to build a temple in Jerusalem is vetoed by God, who promises David the following things:

1) David would have a son to rule after him;2) David’s son would build the temple;3) the throne occupied by David’s lineage would be established forever; and4) God would never take His mercy from David’s house (2 Samuel 7:4-16).

David leads Israel to an unprecedented victory over many of the enemy nations which surrounded them. He also shows kindness to the family of Jonathan by taking in his son, Mephibosheth (chapters 8-10).

Then David falls. He lusts after a beautiful woman named Bathsheba, then commits adultery with her, and then has her husband murdered (chapter 11). When Nathan the prophet confronts David with his sin, David confesses, and God forgives; but the Lord tells David that trouble would arise within his house.

Trouble does come when David’s firstborn son, Amnon, rapes his half-sister, Tamar. Then, in retaliation, Tamar’s brother Absalom kills Amnon. Absalom then flees Jerusalem rather than face his father’s anger. Later, Absalom leads a revolt against David, and some of David’s former associates join the rebellion (chapters 15-16). David is forced out of Jerusalem, and Absalom sets himself up as king for a short time. Absalom is overthrown, however, and - against David’s wishes - is killed. David mourns his fallen son.

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A season of unrest plagues the remainder of David’s reign. The men of Israel threaten to split from Judah, and David must suppress another uprising (chapter 20).

The book’s appendix includes information concerning a three-year famine within the land (chapter 21), a song of David (chapter 22), a record of the accomplishments of David’s bravest warriors (chapter 23), and David’s sinful census and the ensuing plague (chapter 24).

Preparation for the Gospel

The Lord Jesus Christ is seen primarily in two parts of 2 Samuel:

First, the Davidic Covenant as outlined in 2 Samuel 7:16: “...your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me. Your throne shall be established forever” and reiterated in Luke 1:31-33 in the words of the angel who appeared to Mary to announce Jesus’ birth to her: “He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” Jesus is the fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant; He is the Son of God in the line of David who will reign forever.

Second, Jesus is seen in the song of David at the end of his life (2 Samuel 22:2-51). He sings of his rock, fortress, and deliverer, his refuge and savior. And Jesus is our Rock (1 Corinthians 10:4; 1 Peter 2:7-9), the Deliverer of Israel (Romans 11:25-27), the fortress to whom we “have fled for refuge...to hold fast to the hope set before us” (Hebrews 6:18), and our only Savior (Luke 2:11; 2 Timothy 1:10).

Practical Application

Anyone can fall; even a man like David, who desired to follow God and who was richly blessed by God, was susceptible to temptation. David’s sin with Bathsheba should be a warning to us to guard our hearts, our eyes and our minds. Pride over our spiritual maturity and our ability to withstand temptation in our own strength is the first step toward a downfall (1 Corinthians 10:12).

God forgives when we repent, but healing the wounds caused by sin does not always erase the scar. Sin has natural consequences, and even after he was forgiven, David had to reap what he had sown. His son from the adulterous union with another man’s wife was taken from him (2 Samuel 12:14-24) and he suffered the misery of a break in his loving relationship with his heavenly Father (Psalms 32, 51). How much better to avoid sin in the first place, rather than having to seek forgiveness later!

Rec#mended Reading for 2 Samuel

Sunday David Mourns for Jonathan & Saul 2 Samuel 1:1-27 Monday David, King of Judah 2 Samuel 2:1-32; 3:1

Tuesday David, King of All Israel 2 Samuel 5:1-25 Wednesday David’s House Established 2 Samuel 7:1-29

Thursday David’s Sin 2 Samuel 11:1-27 Friday David’s Repentance 2 Samuel 12:1-23; Psalm 51:1-19

Saturday David Numbers the People 2 Samuel 24:1-17

Rec#mended Resources for 2 Samuel

Bergen, Robert D. 1, 2 Samuel. NAC. Broadman Holman, 1996.

McCarter, P. Kyle. II Samuel. AB. Yale University Press, 1984.

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OT History 1 Kings Israel divides into rival northern and southern nations

Author

Although the Book of 1 Kings does not name its author, the tradition is that it was written by Jeremiah.

Date of Writing

The Book of 1 Kings was likely written between 560 and 540 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

This book is the sequel to 1 and 2 Samuel, tracing Solomon's rise to kingship after the death of David. The story begins with a united kingdom, but ends in a nation divided in two, known as Judah and Israel. 1 and 2 Kings are combined into one book in the Hebrew Bible.

Key Verses

“...as I swore to you by the LORD, the God of Israel, saying, ‘Solomon your son shall reign after me, and he shall sit on my throne in my place,’ even so will I do this day.” (1 Kings 1:30)

“And the LORD said to him, ‘I have heard your prayer and your plea, which you have made before me. I have consecrated this house that you have built, by putting my name there forever. My eyes and my heart will be there for all time.’” (1 Kings 9:3)

“And when all Israel saw that the king did not listen to them, the people answered the king, ‘What portion do we have in David? We have no inheritance in the son of Jesse. To your tents, O Israel! Look now to your own house, David.’” (1 Kings 12:16)

“So the king took counsel and made two calves of gold. And he said to the people, ‘You have gone up to Jerusalem long enough. Behold your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt.’”(1 Kings 12:28)

Now Elijah the Tishbite, of Tishbe in Gilead, said to Ahab, “As the LORD, the God of Israel, lives, before whom I stand, there shall be neither dew nor rain these years, except by my word.” (1 Kings 17:1)

Brief Summary

The Book of 1 Kings records the life of two different men, starting with Solomon and ending with Elijah.

Solomon, who also had a weakness for women, was born after a scandal between David and Bathsheba. He did well at first, praying for wisdom and building a temple to God - a project that took seven years. But then he spent 13 years building a palace for himself, and his wives led him to worship their idols.

After Solomon’s death, Israel was ruled by a series of kings, most of whom were both evil and idolatrous. This, in turn, led the nation away from God and even the preaching of Elijah could not bring them back. Among the most evil kings was Ahab and his queen, Jezebel, who brought back the worship of Baal. Elijah challenged the idolatrous priests of Baal to a showdown on Mount Carmel. Of course God won. This made Queen Jezebel angry. She ordered Elijah's death, so he ran away and hid in the wilderness. Depressed and exhausted, he said, "take away my life..." But God sent food and encouragement to Elijah and whispered to him in a "the sound of a low whisper," and in the process saved his life for further work.

Preparation for the Gospel

The Temple in Jerusalem is the location where the Spirit of God would dwell within the Holy of Holies, and it foreshadows believers in Christ in whom the Holy Spirit resides from the moment of our salvation. Just as the Israelites were to forsake idolatry, so we are to put away anything that separates us from God. We are His people, the very temple of the living God. 2 Corinthians 6:16 tells us, “What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; as God said, ‘I will make my dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.’”

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The Book of 1 Kings has many lessons for believers. We see a warning about the company we keep, and especially in regard to close associations and marriage. The kings of Israel who, like Solomon, married foreign women exposed themselves and the people they ruled to evil. As believers in Christ, we must be very careful about whom we choose as friends, business associates, and spouses. “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company ruins good morals.’” (1 Corinthians 15:33).

Also, following Elijah’s victory over the 450 prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, his joy turned to sorrow; “mountaintop” experiences are often followed by the depression and discouragement that can follow. We must be on guard for this experience in the Christian life. But God is faithful and never forsakes us. The sound of a low whisper that encouraged Elijah will encourage us, as well.

Rec!mended Reading for 1 Kings

Sunday Grace Day! Monday Building the Temple 1 Kings 6:1-14

Tuesday Dedicating the Temple 1 Kings 8:22-53 Wednesday Solomon’s Glorious Reign 1 Kings 10:1-29

Thursday The Kingdom Divided 1 Kings 12:1-33 Friday The Prophet Elijah 1 Kings 17:1-18:46

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for 1 Kings

House, Paul R. 1, 2 Kings. NAC. Broadman Holman, 1995.

Provan, Iain W. 1 & 2 Kings. NIBCOT. Hendrickson Publishers, 1995.

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OT History 2 Kings Both Jewish nations are destroyed for their disobedience to God

Author

Although the Book of 2 Kings does not name its author, the tradition is that it was written by Jeremiah.

Date of Writing

The Book of 2 Kings, along with 1 Kings, was likely written between 560 and 540 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

The Book of 2 Kings is a sequel to 1 Kings, continuing the story of the kings over the divided kingdom, a concluding with the overthrow and deportation of the people of Israel and Judah to Assyria and Babylon.

Key Verses

“And this occurred because the people of Israel had sinned against the LORD their God, who had brought them up out of the land of Egypt from under the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt, and had feared other gods and walked in the customs of the nations whom the LORD drove out before the people of Israel, and in the customs that the kings of Israel had practiced.” (2 Kings 17:7-8)

“Josiah was eight years old when he began to reign, and he reigned thirty-one years in Jerusalem. ... And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD and walked in all the way of David his father, and he did not turn aside to the right or to the left.” (2 Kings 22:1a, 2)

“And the LORD sent against him bands of the Chaldeans and bands of the Syrians and bands of the Moabites and bands of the Ammonites, and sent them against Judah to destroy it, according to the word of the LORD that he spoke by his servants the prophets.” (2 Kings 24:2)

“Yet the LORD was not willing to destroy Judah, for the sake of David his servant, since he promised to give a lamp to him and to his sons forever.” (2 Kings 8:19)

Brief Summary

The prophets continue to warn the Israelites that the judgment of God is at hand, but they will not repent. The kingdom of Israel is repeatedly ruled by evil kings, and even though a few of Judah's kings are good, the majority of them lead the people away from worship of God. These few good kings, along with Elisha, cannot stop the nation's decline. The Northern Kingdom of Israel is eventually destroyed by the Assyrians, and about 136 years later the Southern Kingdom of Judah is destroyed by the Babylonians.

There are three prominent themes present in the Book of 2 Kings:

1) The Lord will judge His people when they disobey and turn their backs on Him.The Israelites’ unfaithfulness was reflected in the evil idolatry of the kings and resulted in God exercising His righteous wrath against their rebellion.

2) The word of the true prophets of God always comes to pass.Because the Lord always keeps His word, so too are the words of His prophets always true.

3) The Lord is faithful.He remembered His promise to David (2 Samuel 7:10-13), and, despite the disobedience of the people and the evil kings who ruled them, the Lord did not bring David’s family to an end.

Preparation for the Gospel

Jesus uses the widow of Zarephath from 1 Kings and Naaman in 2 Kings to illustrate God’s compassion toward those unworthy of God’s grace - the poor, weak, oppressed, tax collectors, Samaritans, Gentiles. By using the examples of a poor widow and a leper, Jesus showed Himself to be the Great Physician who heals and ministers to those in the greatest need of divine sovereign grace. This same truth was the basis of the mystery of the body of Christ, His church, which would be drawn from all levels of society, male and female, rich and poor, Jew and Gentile (Ephesians 3:1-6).

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Many of the miracles of Elisha prepared us for Jesus, too: Elisha raised the Shunammite woman’s son (2 Kings 4:34-35), healed Naaman of leprosy (2 Kings 5:1-19), and multiplied loaves of bread to feed a hundred people with some left over (2 Kings 4:42-44).

Practical Application

God hates sin. He will not allow it to continue forever. If we belong to Him, we can expect His discipline, because a loving Father corrects His children for their benefit and to prove that they truly belong to Him. God may use unbelievers to bring correction to His people, and He gives us a warning before judgment. As Christians, we have His true Word to guide us and to warn us when we tend to stray from His path. God’s faithfulness to His people will never fail, even when we do.

The recorded accounts of the widow and the leper are examples for us in regard to the Body of Christ. As Elisha welcomed all levels of society, we are to welcome all who belong to Christ into our churches. “God shows no partiality,” (Acts 10:34) and neither should we be.

Rec#mended Reading for 2 Kings

Sunday Grace Day! Monday Elijah & Elisha 2 Kings 2:1-22

Tuesday Grace Day! Wednesday The Captivity of Israel | The Northern Kingdom 2 Kings 17:7-23

Thursday Grace Day! Friday The Captivity of Judah | The Southern Kingdom 2 Kings 25:1-21

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for 2 Kings

House, Paul R. 1, 2 Kings. NAC. Broadman Holman, 1995.

Provan, Iain W. 1 & 2 Kings. NIBCOT. Hendrickson Publishers, 1995.

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OT History 1 Chronicles King David’s reign is detailed and analyzed

Author

The Book of 1 Chronicles does not name its author, but the tradition is that it was written by Ezra.

Date of Writing

The Book of 1 Chronicles was likely written between 450 and 425 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

The Books of 1 & 2 Chronicles record most of the same information as 1 & 2 Samuel and 1 & 2 Kings. However, 1 & 2 Chronicles focus more on the priestly aspect of the time period of these other four books. 1 Chronicles was written after the exile to help those returning to Israel understand how to worship God. The history focused on the Southern Kingdom, the two tribes of Judah, which were Benjamin and Levi. These tribes tended to be more faithful to God.

Key Verses

“Then all Israel gathered together to David at Hebron and said, ‘Behold, we are your bone and flesh. In times past, even when Saul was king, it was you who led out and brought in Israel. And the LORD your God said to you, “You shall be shepherd of my people Israel, and you shall be prince over my people Israel.”’” (1 Chronicles 11:1-2)

“Then David said to Gad, ‘I am in great distress. Let me fall into the hand of the LORD, for his mercy is very great, but do not let me fall into the hand of man.’” (1 Chronicles 21:13)

“Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is yours. Yours is the kingdom, O LORD, and you are exalted as head above all.” (1 Chronicles 29:11)

Brief Summary

Much of 1 Chronicles is dedicated to lists and genealogies, with many of both scattered through the book. In between, the Book of 1 Chronicles records David's rise to the throne and his rule on the throne as king. The book concludes with David's son Solomon becoming King of Israel.

Briefly outlined, the Book of 1 Chronicles is as follows:

1:1-9:23 | Selective Genealogies

9:24-12:40 | David’s Rise to the Throne

13:1-20:30 | David’s Rule on the Throne

Preparation for the Gospel

In David’s song of thanksgiving in 1 Chronicles 16:33, he refers to God coming “to judge the earth,” preparing us for Jesus in Matthew 25 as He describes the time when He will come to judge the earth. Jesus warns that those without the blood of Christ covering their sins will be cast into “outer darkness” and encourages His people to be ready for when He returns to separate the sheep and goats in judgment.

Part of the Davidic Covenant reiterated in chapter 17 refers to the Messiah as a descendant of David, describing the Son who will be established in God’s house and whose throne will be established forever. This prophecy can only refer to Jesus Christ!

Practical Application

Genealogies may seem dry to us, but they remind us that God knows each of His children personally. We can take comfort in the fact that who we are and what we do is written forever in the mind of God. If we belong to Christ, our names are written forever in the Lamb’s book of Life (Revelation 13:8).

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We see the fulfillment of God’s promise to David when he is made king over Israel (1 Chronicles 11:1-3). We can be sure that His promises to us will be fulfilled as well. He has promises for those who follow Him, who come to Christ in repentance, and who obey His Word.

1 Chronicles follows the pattern of sin, repentance, forgiveness, and restoration of the nation of Israel. In the same way, God is patient and forgives our sin when we come to Him in repentance (1 John 1:9). We can take comfort that He hears our prayer of, forgives our sin, restores us to fellowship with Him, and sets us on the path to joy.

Rec#mended Reading for 1 Chronicles

Sunday Grace Day! Monday Grace Day!

Tuesday Grace Day! Wednesday Grace Day!

Thursday Grace Day! Friday Grace Day!

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for 1 Chronicles

Selman, Martin J. 1 & 2 Chronicles. 4 Vols. TOTC. InterVarsity Press, 2008.

Braun, Roddy. 1 Chronicles. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 1986.

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OT History 2 Chronicles The history of Israel from Solomon to division to destruction

Author

The Book of 2 Chronicles does not name its author, but the tradition is that it was written by Ezra.

Date of Writing

The Book of 2 Chronicles was likely written between 450 and 425 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

The Books of 1 & 2 Chronicles record most of the same information as 1 & 2 Samuel and 1 & 2 Kings. However, 1 & 2 Chronicles focus more on the priestly aspect of the time period of these other four books. 2 Chronicles is essentially an evaluation of the nation's religious history.

Key Verses

“Now Solomon purposed to build a temple for the name of the LORD, and a royal palace for himself.”(2 Chronicles 2:1)

“Hezekiah began to reign when he was twenty-five years old, and he reigned twenty-nine years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Abijah the daughter of Zechariah. And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, according to all that David his father had done. In the first year of his reign, in the first month, he opened the doors of the house of the LORD and repaired them.” (2 Chronicles 29:1-3)

“All the officers of the priests and the people likewise were exceedingly unfaithful, following all the abominations of the nations. And they polluted the house of the LORD that he had made holy in Jerusalem. (2 Chronicles 36:14)

“Thus says Cyrus king of Persia, ‘The LORD, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth, and he has charged me to build him a house at Jerusalem, which is in Judah. Whoever is among you of all his people, may the LORD his God be with him. Let him go up.’” (2 Chronicles 36:23)

Brief Summary

2 Chronicles records the history of Judah, from Solomon’s rule to the conclusion of the Babylonian exile. The decline of Judah is disappointing, but the reformers zealously seek to turn the people back to God. There is little recorded about the evil kings or of the failures of good kings; only goodness is stressed. Israel is rarely mentioned because of her false worship and refusal to recognize the Temple of Jerusalem. 2 Chronicles concludes with the final destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple.

Preparation for the Gospel

All the references to kings in the Old Testament are preparing us for the true King of Kings - Jesus Christ. The references to the temple in the Old Testament prepare us for the temple of the Spirit - His people.

Even the most godly of the kings of Israel had the faults of all sinful men and led the people imperfectly. But the King of Kings will establish Himself on the throne of all the earth as the rightful heir of David. Only then will we have a perfect King who will reign in righteousness and holiness - something of which the best of Israel’s kings could only dream.

Also, the temple built by Solomon was not designed to last forever; it needed great repair (2 Kings 12). But the temple of the Spirit - those who belong to Christ - will live forever and will be constantly renewed. We who belong to Jesus are that temple, made not by hands but by the very will of God (John 1:12-13). The Spirit who lives within us will never depart from us and will deliver us safely into the hands of God (Ephesians 1:13; 4:30). No earthly temple can offer that promise!

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Practical Application

We see that each generation was either blessed for their obedience or punished for their wickedness, but we are also to compare the plight of these generations to our own, both collectively and individually. God hates sin and will not tolerate it. But the Chronicles teach us that God desires to forgive and heal those who will humbly pray and repent (1 John 1:9).

If you could have anything you wished from God, for what would you ask: health, wealth, prosperity...? It’s absolutely amazing that God made such an offer to Solomon and he chose none of these things. He asked for wisdom and knowledge to complete the tasks God had assigned to him and to do them well. God gives each of us a commission to fulfill and we must ask God for the ability to carry out His will. We need the “wisdom from above” (James 3:17) to discern His will, as well as the understanding and knowledge of Him in order to motivate us to Christlikeness in both attitude and action (James 3:13).

Rec#mended Reading for 2 Chronicles

Sunday Grace Day! Monday Grace Day!

Tuesday Grace Day! Wednesday Grace Day!

Thursday Grace Day! Friday Grace Day!

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for 2 Chronicles

Selman, Martin J. 1 & 2 Chronicles. 4 Vols. TOTC. InterVarsity Press, 2008.

Dillard, Raymond B. 2 Chronicles. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 1987.

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OT History Ezra Spiritual renewal begins after the Jews return from exile

Author

The Book of Ezra does not name its author, but the tradition is that it was written by Ezra.

Date of Writing

The Book of Ezra was likely written between 460 and 440 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

The Book of Ezra is devoted to events occurring in Israel at the time of the return from the Babylonian captivity and subsequent years, covering a period of approximately one century, beginning in 538 B.C. The emphasis in Ezra is on the rebuilding of the Temple. The book contains long genealogical records, mainly for the purpose of establishing the claims to the priesthood for the descendants of Aaron.

Key Verses

“And they sang responsively, praising and giving thanks to the LORD,‘For he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever toward Israel.’

And all the people shouted with a great shout when they praised the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid.” (Ezra 3:11)

“Ezra went up from Babylonia. He was a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses that the LORD, the God of Israel, had given, and the king granted him all that he asked, for the hand of the LORD his God was on him.” l(Ezra 7:6)

Brief Summary

The book may be divided as follows:

Chapters 1-6 | The First Return Under Zerubbabel & The Building of the Second TempleChapters 7-10 | The Ministry of Ezra

The Book of Ezra records the return from captivity to rebuild the Temple up to the decree of Artaxerxes.

Those mentioned in the first part of the book had died by the time Ezra began his ministry in Jerusalem.

Preparation for the Gospel

Ezra continues the theme that whenever judgment falls, God always saves a tiny remnant for Himself -Noah and his family from the destruction of the flood; Lot and his family from Sodom and Gomorrah; the 7,000 prophets reserved in Israel despite the persecution of King Ahab and his Queen Jezebel; when the Israelites were taken into captivity in Egypt, God delivered His remnant to the Promised Land; some 50,000 people return to the land of Judea in Ezra 2:64-67, and yet, in comparing themselves with Israel during its prosperous days under King David, they realize that “...we are left a remnant.”

The remnant theme is in the New Testament where “there is a remnant, chosen by grace” (Romans 11:5). Most rejected Jesus, but there remained a people whom God had reserved and preserved in His Son, and in the covenant of His grace. Throughout all generations since the death and resurrection of Christ, there is the remnant of the faithful whose feet are on the narrow road to eternal life (Matthew 7:13-14). This remnant will be preserved through the power of the Holy Spirit who has sealed them and who will deliver them safely at the last day (2 Corinthians 1:22; Ephesians 4:30).

Practical Application

The Book of Ezra is a chronicle of hope and restoration. For the Christian whose life is scarred by sin, there is hope in God who will not turn on us when we seek Him in repentance and in faith (1 John 1:9).

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The return of the Israelites to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the Temple are repeated in every Christian who returns from the captivity of sin and rebellion against God and finds in Him a loving welcome home. No matter how long we have been away, He is ready to forgive us, to receive us back into His family, and to show us how to rebuild our lives and resurrect our hearts - wherein is the temple of the Holy Spirit. As with the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem, God oversees the work of renovating and rededicating our lives to His service.

The opposition of the enemies of God to the rebuilding of the temple reminds us of our enemies, as well. Satan uses those who seem to be in line with God’s purposes to tempt us and try to thwart God’s plans. Ezra 4:2 describes the words of those who claim to build up Christ but whose real intent is to tear down. We must be on guard against such deceivers, respond to them as the Israelites did in grace and truth, and refuse to be fooled by their smooth words and false professions of faith.

Rec#mended Reading for Ezra

Sunday Grace Day! Monday Jews Return to Jerusalem Ezra 1:1-3:13

Tuesday Grace Day! Wednesday Discouragement & Joy Ezra 4:1-6:22

Thursday Grace Day! Friday Ezra’s Expedition Ezra 7:1-10:44

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for Ezra

Williamson, H.G.M. Ezra, Nehemiah. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 1985.

Fensham, F. Charles. The Books of Ezra and Nehemiah. NICOT. Eerdmans, 1983.

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OT History Nehemiah Returning Jewish exiles rebuild the broken walls of Jerusalem

Author

The Book of Nehemiah does not name its author, but tradition recognizes Ezra as the author based on the fact that the books of Ezra and Nehemiah were originally one.

Date of Writing

The Book of Nehemiah was likely written between 445 and 420 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

The Book of Nehemiah continues the story of Israel’s return from Babylonian captivity and the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem.

Key Verses

“And they said to me, ‘The remnant there in the province who had survived the exile is in great trouble and shame. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates are destroyed by fire.’” (Nehemiah 1:3)

“O Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of your servant, and to the prayer of your servants who delight to fear your name, and give success to your servant today, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man.” (Nehemiah 1:11)

“So the wall was finished on the twenty-fifth day of the month Elul, in fifty-two days. And when all our enemies heard of it, all the nations around us were afraid and fell greatly in their own esteem, for they perceived that this work had been accomplished with the help of our God.” (Nehemiah 6:15-16)

Brief Summary

Nehemiah was a Hebrew in Persia when he heard that the Temple in Jerusalem was being reconstructed. He grew anxious knowing there was no wall to protect the city and invited God to use him to save the city. God answered his prayer by softening the heart of the king, Artaxerxes, who gave not only his blessing, but also supplies to be used in the project. He is given permission by the king to return to Jerusalem, where he is made governor.

In spite of opposition, the wall was built and the enemies silenced. The people, inspired by Nehemiah, give money, supplies, and manpower to complete the wall in a remarkable 52 days, despite opposition. This unity is short-lived, however, as Jerusalem falls back into apostasy when Nehemiah leaves the city. After 12 years he returned to find the walls remained strong but the people regressed into weakness. He set about the task of teaching the people morality and he didn't mince any words about his approach: "I confronted them and cursed them and beat some of them and pulled out their hair" (13:25). Wow! He reestablishes their worship of the One true God through prayer and by encouraging the Israelites to revival by reading, trusting, and obeying the Word of God.

Preparation for the Gospel

Nehemiah was a man of prayer and he prayed passionately and persistently for his people (Nehemiah 1). His zealous intercession for God’s people prepares us for the prayer our great Intercessor, Jesus Christ, who we find praying on a regular basis for His people, especially in His high-priestly prayer in John 17. Both Nehemiah and Jesus had a burning love for God’s people which they poured out in prayer to God, interceding for them before the throne.

Practical Application

Nehemiah, because of his zealous love for God and his strong desire to see God glorified and honored, led the Israelites toward the faith and obedience God had desired for them for so long. In the same way, Christians are to love and revere the truth of Scripture, commit it to memory, meditate on it day and night, and turn to it for the fulfillment of every spiritual need. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 tells us, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,

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that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” If we desire the spiritual revival of the Israelites (Nehemiah 8:1-8), we must begin with God’s Word.

Like Nehemiah, each of us must have genuine compassion for others who hurt physically and spiritually. To feel compassion in your heart, but to do nothing to help with your hands, is completely unbiblical. We may have to give up and sacrifice our own comfort in order to minister to others on Jesus’ behalf. We must totally believe in a cause of Christ before we will give our time or money to it with the right heart. When we allow God to minister through us, even unbelievers will know it is God's work.

Rec#mended Reading for Nehemiah

Sunday Nehemiah Rebuilds the Wall Nehemiah 1:1-3:32 Monday Grace Day!

Tuesday Overcoming Opposition Nehemiah 4:1-6:19 Wednesday Grace Day!

Thursday Nehemiah Rebuilds the Morals Nehemiah 7:1-9:38 Friday Grace Day!

Saturday Reforming Through Religion Nehemiah 11:1-13:31

Rec#mended Resources for Nehemiah

Williamson, H.G.M. Ezra, Nehemiah. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 1985.

Fensham, F. Charles. The Books of Ezra and Nehemiah. NICOT. Eerdmans, 1983.

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OT History Esther Beautiful Jewish girl becomes queen, saves fellow Jews from slaughter

Author

The Book of Esther does not name its author, but the traditions favor, Mordecai, Ezra, or Nehemiah.

Date of Writing

The Book of Esther was likely written between 460 and 350 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

The Book of Esther displays the providence of God, especially in regard to His chosen people, Israel. The Book of Esther records the institution of the Feast of Purim and the obligation of its observation. The Book of Esther was read at the Feast of Purim to commemorate the great deliverance of the Jews. Jews today still read Esther during Purim.

Key Verses

“When the turn came for Esther the daughter of Abihail the uncle of Mordecai, who had taken her as his own daughter, to go in to the king, she asked for nothing except what Hegai the king's eunuch, who had charge of the women, advised.” (Esther 2:15a)

“For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14)

“If Mordecai, before whom you have begun to fall, is of the Jewish people, you will not overcome him but will surely fall before him.” (Esther 6:12b)

“If I have found favor in your sight, O king, and if it please the king, let my life be granted me for my wish, and my people for my request.” (Esther 7:3)

Brief Summary

The Book of Esther can be divided into three main sections.

1:1-2:18 | Esther replaces Vashti2:19-7:10 | Mordecai overcomes Haman8:1-10:3 | Israel survives Haman’s attempt to destroy them

The noble Esther risked her own death as she realized what was at stake - she willingly did what could have been a deadly maneuver and took on the second-in-command of her husband‘s kingdom, Haman. She proved a wise and most worthy opponent, while remaining humble and respectful of the position of her husband-king.

Esther's life is much like the life of Joseph in Genesis 37-50:

- both are involved with foreign monarchs who control the destiny of the Jews- both show the heroism of Israelite individuals who provide the means for the salvation of their nation- The hand of God is evident, in that what appears to be a bad situation is indeed very much under the

control of the Almighty God, who ultimately has the good of His people at heart

At the center of this story is the division between the Jews and the Agagites, which began in Exodus. Haman’s goal is the final effort recorded in the Old Testament of the complete eradication of the Jews. His plans end up with his own demise, and the promotion of his enemy Mordecai to his own position, as well as the salvation of the Jews.

Feasting is a major theme of this book: there are 10 banquets, where many of the events were planned. The Jews of Susa sought God’s intervention when they fasted and prayed for three days (Esther 4:16). Although the law allowing their destruction was written according to the laws of the Medes and Persians, rendering it unchangeable, God cleared the way for their prayers to be answered by His sovereign hand.

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Queen Esther risked her life by going not once uninvited before the king, but twice (Esther 4:1-2; 8:3). She was not content with the destruction of Haman; she was intent on saving her people.

The institution of the Feast of Purim is written and preserved for all to see and is still observed today. God's chosen people, without any direct mention of His name, were granted a stay of execution through the wisdom and humility of Esther.

Preparation for the Gospel

In Esther, we get a behind-the-scenes look at the ongoing struggle of Satan against the purposes of God. The entrance of Jesus Christ into the human race was predicated upon the existence of the Jewish race. Just as Haman plotted against the Jews, so has Satan also set himself against Christ and God’s people. Just as Haman is defeated, so does Christ use the very weapon that His enemy devised to destroy Him. For the cross, by which Satan planned to destroy the Messiah, was the very means through which Christ “...(canceled) the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him” (Colossians 2:14-15). Just as Haman was hanged on the gallows that he built for Mordecai, so the devil was crushed by the cross he erected to destroy Christ.

Practical Application

The Book of Esther shows the hand of God in our circumstances in life is not just a mere coincidence. God is sovereign and we can be assured that His plans will not be moved by the actions of evil men. Although His name is not mentioned in the book, His providential care for his people is evident throughout. For example, we cannot fail to see the Almighty exerting His control over King Xerxes’ timely insomnia. Also, the silent love language our Father often uses to communicate directly to our spirits is shown through the lives of Mordecai and Esther.

Esther proved to have a godly and teachable spirit that also showed great strength and willing obedience. Esther’s humility was Christ-like, and this caused her to be exalted by God into the position of queen. She shows us that remaining respectful and humble, even in difficult - if not impossible - circumstances, often sets us up to be the vessel of untold blessing for both ourselves individually and others collectively. Many times we read she won the "favor" of those around her, which is what ultimately saved her people. We can be granted favor as we accept persecution and follow Esther’s example of being like Jesus. Who knows whether God has put you in this position for such a time as this?

Rec#mended Reading for Esther

Sunday Rejection of Vashti Esther 1:1-22 Monday Crowning of Esther Esther 2:1-23

Tuesday Plotting of Haman Esther 3:1-4:17 Wednesday Venture of Esther Esther 5:1-14

Thursday Mordecai Exalted Esther 6:1-14 Friday Esther’s Feast Esther 7:1-8:17

Saturday Deliverance of the Jews Esther 9:1-10:3

Rec#mended Resources for Esther

Bush, Frederic. Ruth, Esther. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 1996.

Baldwin, Joyce. Esther. TOTC. InterVarsity Press, 1984.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 36

OT Poetry Job God allows human suffering for His own purposes

Author

The Book of Job does not name its author, but the likely candidates are Job, Elihu, Moses, and Solomon.

Date of Writing

The date of the authorship of the Book of Job would be determined by the author of the Book of Job. If Moses is the author, it would be 1440 B.C. or so. If Solomon is the author, it would be 950 B.C. or so. However, because we do not know the author, we cannot know the exact date of writing.

Purpose of Writing

The Book of Job helps us to understand the following: Satan cannot bring financial and physical destruction upon us unless it is by God's permission. God has power over what Satan can and cannot do. It is beyond our human ability to understand the "why's" behind all the suffering experienced in the world. The wicked will receive their just dues. We cannot always blame suffering and sin on our lifestyles. Suffering may sometimes be allowed by God in our lives to purify, strengthen, teach, or test the soul. God, who remains enough, deserves and requests our love and praise in all circumstances of life.

Key Verses

“There was a man in the land of Uz whose name was Job, and that man was blameless and upright, one who feared God and turned away from evil.” (Job 1:1)

“Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked shall I return. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.” (Job 1:21)

“Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind and said:‘Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge?’” (Job 38:1-2)

“I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear,but now my eye sees you;

therefore I despise myself,and repent in dust and ashes.” (Job 42:5-6)

Brief Summary

The book opens with a scene in heaven where Satan comes to accuse Job before God - he insists Job only serves God because God protects him and seeks God’s permission to test Job’s faith and loyalty. God grants His permission, only within certain boundaries.

Why do the righteous suffer? This is the question raised after Job loses his family, health, and wealth. Job's three friends Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, come to “comfort” him and to talk about these tragedies. They insist his suffering is punishment for his own sin. Job, though, remains devoted to God through it all. A fourth man, Elihu, tells Job he needs to humble himself and submit to God's use of trials to purify him. Finally, Job questions God and learns about God’s sovereignty and his need to totally trust in the Lord. Job is then restored to health, joy, and prosperity beyond his earlier state.

Preparation for the Gospel

As Job contemplated the cause of his misery, we see that three very specific questions came to his mind, all of which are answered only in our Lord Jesus Christ:

1) Job asks, “Who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean? There is not one.” (Job 14:4)Job’s question comes from a heart that knows it cannot possibly please God or be justified in His sight. God is holy; and we are not. Therefore, a great gulf exists between man and God, caused by our sin. But the answer to Job’s first question is found in Jesus Christ, who has paid the penalty for our sin and has exchanged it for His righteousness, thereby making us acceptable in God’s sight (Hebrews 10:14; Colossians 1:21-23; 2 Corinthians 5:17).

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2) Job asks, “But a man dies and is laid low; man breathes his last, and where is he?” (Job 14:10)Again, here is another question about eternity and life and death that is answered only in Jesus Christ. With Christ, the answer to “...where is he?’ is eternal life in heaven. Without Christ, the answer is an eternity in “outer darkness” where there is “weeping and gnashing of teeth” (Matthew 25:30).

3) Job asks, “If a man dies, shall he live again?” (Job 14:14)Once again, the answer is found only in Jesus Christ. We do indeed live again if we are found in Him. “When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: ‘Death is swallowed up in victory.’ ‘O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?’” (1 Corinthians 15:54-55).

Practical Application

The Book of Job reminds us that there is a "cosmic conflict" going on that we usually know nothing about. We wonder why God allows something, and we question His goodness, without seeing the full picture. But we must trust in our God, not only when we do not understand, but because we do not understand. The psalmist tells us, “This God - his way is perfect...” (Psalm 18:30a). Since God’s ways are “perfect,” then we can trust that whatever He does and allows is also perfect. This may not seem possible to us, but our minds are not God’s mind. It is true that we cannot expect to understand God’s mind perfectly, as He reminds us,

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:8-9)

Nevertheless, our responsibility to God as believers is to obey Him, to trust Him and to submit to His will, whether we understand it or not.

Rec#mended Reading for Job

Sunday Satan & Saint Job 1:1-2:13 Monday Bildad Thinks Job a Hypocrite Job 8:1-22

Tuesday Job Answers His Friends Job 12:1-25 Wednesday Job’s Faith Job 19:1-29

Thursday Job & Elihu Job 32:1-22; 37:23-24 Friday God Speaks to Job Job 38:1-18

Saturday Job Vindicated & Honored Job 42:1-17

Rec#mended Resources for Job

Andersen, Francis I. Job. TOTC. InterVarsity Press, 1981.

Clines, David J. A. Job. 3 Vols. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 2009.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 38

OT Poetry Psalms Ancient Jewish songbook of prayers, praise - and complaints - to God

Author

The brief descriptions that introduce each of the psalms have David listed as author in 73 instances. While it is clear that he wrote many of the psalms, he is definitely not the author of the entire collection.

Two of the psalms (Psalm 72) and (Psalm 127) are attributed to Solomon, David's son and successor.

Psalm 90 is a prayer assigned to Moses. Psalm 50 and Psalm 73-83 are ascribed to the family of Asaph.

The sons of Korah wrote 11 psalms (Psalm 42, 44-49, 84-85, 87-88). Psalm 88 is attributed to Heman, while Psalm 89 is assigned to Ethan the Ezrahite. With the exception of two men - Solomon and Moses - all these additional authors were priests or Levites who provided music for worship during David's reign.

Finally, 50 of the psalms designate no specific person as author.

Date of Writing

A careful examination of the authorship, as well as the subject matter covered by the psalms themselves, reveals that they span a period of centuries. The oldest psalm is likely the prayer of Moses (Psalm 90). The latest psalm is likely Psalm 137, written between 586 to 538 B.C.

It is clear that the 150 individual psalms were written by many people across a period of 1,000 years. They were likely compiled and put together in their present form by an unknown editor around 537 B.C., shortly after the Israelite’s captivity by the Babylonians.

Purpose of Writing

The Book of Psalms is the longest, most diverse book in the Bible, with 150 individual psalms dealing with such subjects as God, creation, war, worship, wisdom, sin and evil, judgment, justice, and the Messiah.

Key Verses

“The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.” (Psalm 19:1)

“For dogs encompass me; a company of evildoers encircles me; they have pierced my hands and feet - I can count all my bones - they stare and gloat over me; they divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots. But you, O LORD, do not be far off! O you my help, come quickly to my aid!” (Psalm 22:16-19)

“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.” (Psalm 23:1)

“Ascribe to the LORD, O heavenly beings, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; worship the LORD in the splendor of holiness.” (Psalm 29:1-2)

“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10)

“Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the LORD! Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart...” (Psalm 119:1-2)

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Brief Summary

The Book of Psalms is a collection of hymns, poems, and prayers that focus thoughts on God in praise. Several sections of this book were used as a hymnal in Israel’s worship gatherings of ancient Israel. After all, the title “Psalms” means "a song sung to the accompaniment of a musical instrument."

Preparation for the Gospel

God’s provision of a Messiah and a Savior for His people is a recurring theme in the Psalms:

Psalm 2:1-12 portrays the Messiah’s triumph and kingdom.

Psalm 16:8-11 foreshadows His death and resurrection.

Psalm 22:1-31 presents the suffering Savior on the cross and detailed prophecies of the crucifixion.

Psalm 45:6-7 shows the glories of the Messiah and His bride.

Psalms 72:6-17, 89:3-37, 110:1-7 and 132:12-18 present the glory and universality of His reign.

Practical Application

One of the results of a believer having been filled with the Holy Spirit and the word of Christ is singing. The psalms are the “songbook” of the early church that reflected the new truth in Christ.

God is the same Lord in all the psalms; but we respond to Him in differently, depending on the situation. What a marvelous God we worship, the psalmist declares, One who is high and lifted up beyond our human experiences but also one who is close enough to touch and who walks beside us along life's way!

We can bring our feelings to God and we can rest assured that He will both hear us and understand us. The psalmist teaches us that the most profound prayer of all is a cry for help as we find ourselves overwhelmed by the problems of life.

Rec#mended Reading for Psalms

Sunday Psalms of Law Psalm 1:1-6; 19:1-14 Monday Psalms of Creation Psalm 29:1-11; 104:1-35

Tuesday Psalms of Judgment Psalm 52:1-53:6 Wednesday Psalms of Christ Psalm 22:1-31; 40:1-41:13

Thursday Psalms of Life Psalm 3:1-8; 31:1-34 Friday Psalms of the Heart Psalm 37:1-40; 42:1-11

Saturday Psalms of God Psalm 90:1-17; 139:1-24

Rec#mended Resources for Psalms

Craigie, Peter C. Psalms 1-50. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 2005.

Wilson, Gerald H. Psalms Volume 1. NIVAC. Zondervan, 2002.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 40

OT Poetry Proverbs Memorable sayings encourage people to pursue wisdom

Author

King Solomon is the main author of Proverbs and his name appears in 1:1, 10:1, and 25:1.

It is likely that Solomon also collected and edited proverbs other than his own, for Ecclesiastes 12:9 says, “Besides being wise, the Preacher also taught the people knowledge, weighing and studying and arranging many proverbs with great care.”

Indeed, the Hebrew title Mishle Shelomoh is translated "Proverbs of Solomon."

Date of Writing

Solomon's proverbs were penned around 900 B.C. During his reign as king, the nation of Israel reached its peak culturally, economically, politically, and spiritually. As Israel's reputation rose, so did Solomon's. Foreign dignitaries from the far reaches of the known world traveled great distances to hear him speak (1 Kings 4:34).

Purpose of Writing

Knowledge is nothing more than an accumulation of raw facts, but wisdom is the ability to see people, events, and situations as God sees them. In the Book of Proverbs, Solomon reveals the mind of God in matters high and lofty and in common, everyday, ordinary situations, too. It appears that no topic escaped King Solomon's attention; matters pertaining to alcohol, ambition, business, character, charity, child-rearing, debt, discipline, godliness, personal conduct, politics, revenge, sexual relations, and wealth are among the many topics covered in this rich collection of wise sayings.

Key Verses

“Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance...” (Proverbs 1:5)

“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.” (Proverbs 1:7)

“Get wisdom; get insight; do not forget, and do not turn away from the words of my mouth.” (Proverbs 4:5)

“The fear of the LORD is hatred of evil. Pride and arrogance and the way of evil and perverted speech I hate. I have counsel and sound wisdom; I have insight; I have strength.” (Proverbs 8:13-14)

Brief Summary

Summarizing the Book of Proverbs is a bit difficult, for there is no particular storyline found in its pages; likewise, there are no principal characters found in the book. It is wisdom that takes center stage – a grand, divine wisdom that transcends the whole of history, cultures, and peoples. Even a quick reading of this magnificent treasury reveals the sayings of the wise King Solomon are as relevant today as they were some 3,000 years ago.

Preparation for the Gospel

Proverbs exhorts us to seek wisdom, to get wisdom, and to understand wisdom, which is fulfilled in Jesus. And Proverbs also tells us repeatedly that “the fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (1:7; 9:10), and Jesus is the embodiment of God’s wisdom expressed in His glorious plan of redemption for mankind. In Jesus Christ, “in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:3), we find the answer to our search for wisdom, the remedy for our fear of God, and the “righteousness and sanctification and redemption” that we so desperately need (1 Corinthians 1:30).

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Practical Application

Sound and sensible answers to all manner of complex difficulties are found in these thirty-one chapters. Certainly, Proverbs is the greatest "how-to" book ever written, and those who have the good sense to take Solomon's words to heart will discover that contentment and godliness are theirs for the asking.

The promise of the Book of Proverbs is that those who choose wisdom and follow God will be blessed with things like long life (9:11); prosperity (2:20-22); joy (3:13-18); and the goodness of God (12:21). But those who reject God, by choosing their folly over His wisdom, suffer shame and death (3:35; 10:21).

Rec#mended Reading for Proverbs

Sunday Get Wisdom Proverbs 1:1-4:27 Monday Grace Day!

Tuesday To Sons Proverbs 5:1-7:27 Wednesday Grace Day!

Thursday Good & Evil Proverbs 15:1-17:28 Friday Grace Day!

Saturday Wise Words Proverbs 20:1-30; 22:1-29; 31:1-31

Rec#mended Resources for Proverbs

Waltke, Bruce K. The Book of Proverbs. 2 Vols. NICOT. Eerdmans, 2004.

Longman, III, Tremper. Proverbs. BECOT. Baker, 2006.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 42

OT Poetry Ecclesiastes Apart from God, life is empty and unsatisfying

Author

The Book of Ecclesiastes does not directly identify its author, but it implies that Solomon wrote the book, and the conventional belief is that the author is indeed Solomon.

Date of Writing

The Book of Ecclesiastes was likely written toward the end of Solomon’s reign, approximately 935 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

The words of “the Preacher” reveal the depression that results from seeking happiness in worldly things. This book gives Christians a chance to see the world through the eyes of a person who, although wise, is trying to find meaning in temporary things. Most every form of pleasure is explored by the Preacher, and none of it gives him a sense of meaning.

In the end, the Preacher comes to accept that faith in God is the only way to find the meaning of life. He decides to accept the facts that life is brief and that life is also ultimately worthless without God. The Preacher advises the reader to focus on an eternal God instead of temporary pleasure.

Key Verses

“Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher, vanity of vanities! All is vanity.” (Ecclesiastes 1:2)

“For in much wisdom is much vexation, and he who increases knowledge increases sorrow.” (Ecclesiastes 1:18)

“Then I considered all that my hands had done and the toil I had expended in doing it, and behold, all was vanity and a striving after wind, and there was nothing to be gained under the sun.” (Ecclesiastes 2:11)

“Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near of which you will say, ‘I have no pleasure in them...’” (Ecclesiastes 12:1)

“The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.” (Ecclesiastes 12:13)

Brief Summary

Two phrases are repeated often in Ecclesiastes:

The word translated as “vanity” appears often, and is used to stress the temporary nature of worldly things. In the end, even the most impressive human achievements will be left behind.

The phrase “under the sun” occurs 28 times, and refers to the mortal world. When the Preacher refers to “all things under the sun,” he is talking about earthly, human, temporary things.

Chapters 1-7 describe all of the worldly things “under the sun” that the Preacher tries to find fulfillment in: science (1:10-11), wisdom and philosophy (1:13-18), pleasure (2:1), alcohol (2:3), architecture (2:4), property (2:7-8), and women (2:8). He turned his mind toward different philosophies to find meaning, such as materialism (2:19-20), and even moral codes (including chapters 8-9). He found that everything was meaningless, a temporary diversion that, without God, had no purpose or longevity.

Chapters 8-12 describe the Preacher’s comments and suggestions on how a life ought to be lived. He comes to the ultimate conclusion that without God, there is no truth and there is no meaning to life. He has seen many evils and realized that even the best achievements are worth nothing in the long run. So he advises the reader to remember God from youth (12:1), to fear Him and to follow His commands (12:13-14).

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Preparation for the Gospel

For all of the vanities in the Book of Ecclesiastes, the answer is Christ. According to Ecclesiastes 3:17, God judges the righteous and the wicked, and the righteous are only those in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21). God gave us the desire for eternity (Ecclesiastes 3:11) and provided the way through Christ (John 3:16). We are reminded that striving for wealth is not only vanity because it does not satisfy (Ecclesiastes 5:10), but even if we attain it, without Christ we would lose our souls and what profit is there in that (Mark 8:36)? Ultimately, every disappointment and vanity described in Ecclesiastes finds its satisfaction in Christ, who is the wisdom of God and the only true meaning to be found in life.

Practical Application

The Book of Ecclesiastes helps us understand the despair and emptiness of those who do not know God. Those who do not have faith in Christ are faced with a life that will ultimately end and become irrelevant. If there’s no salvation and no God, then not only is there no point to life, but no direction or purpose either. The world “under the sun,” apart from God, is brief, cruel, frustrating, unfair, and “utterly meaningless.” But with Christ, life is a shadow of the glories to come in a heaven that is only accessible through Him.

Rec#mended Reading for Ecclesiastes

Sunday Grace Day! Monday All Is Vanity | Part 1 Ecclesiastes 1:1-18

Tuesday All Is Vanity | Part 2 Ecclesiastes 2:1-26 Wednesday All Is Vanity | Part 3 Ecclesiastes 3:1-22

Thursday Only God Satisfies | Part 1 Ecclesiastes 11:1-10 Friday Only God Satisfies | Part 2 Ecclesiastes 12:1-14

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for Ecclesiastes

Longman, III, Tremper. The Book of Ecclesiastes. NICOT. Eerdmans, 1997.

Seow, Choon-Leong. Ecclesiastes. AB. Yale Press, 1997.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 44

OT Poetry Song of Solomon Love in marriage is a beautiful thing worth celebrating

Author

Solomon wrote Song of Solomon, which is one of 1,005 songs that Solomon wrote (1 Kings 4:32).

Date of Writing

Solomon likely wrote this song during the early part of his reign, would is around 965 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

The Song of Solomon is a lyric poem written to extol the virtues of love between a husband and his wife. The poem clearly presents marriage as God’s design. A man and woman are to live together in marriage, loving each other emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

This book combats two extremes: asceticism (denying pleasure) and hedonism (pursuing only pleasure). The marriage profiled in Song of Solomon is a model of care, commitment, and delight.

Key Verses

“I adjure you... that you not stir up or awaken love until it pleases.” (Song of Solomon 2:7, 3:5, 8:4)

“Eat, friends, drink, and be drunk with love!” (Song of Solomon 5:1)

“Set me as a seal upon your heart, as a seal upon your arm, for love is strong as death, jealousy is fierce as the grave. Its flashes are flashes of fire, the very flame of the LORD. Many waters cannot quench love, neither can floods drown it. If a man offered for love all the wealth of his house, he would be utterly despised.” (Song of Solomon 8:6-7)

Brief Summary

The poetry takes the form of a dialogue between a husband (the king) and his wife (the Shulamite). The book divides into three parts: the courtship (1:1-3:5); the wedding (3:6-5:1); the marriage (5:2-8:14).

The song begins before the wedding of the couple, as the bride-to-be longs to be with her husband-to-be, and she looks forward to his touch. However, she advises letting love develop naturally, in its own time. The king praises the Shulamite’s beauty, overcoming her feelings of insecurity about her appearance. The Shulamite has a dream in which she loses her husband and searches throughout the city for him. And, with the help of the city guards, she finds her beloved and clings to him, taking him to a safe place. Upon waking, she repeats her instruction not to force love.

On the wedding night, the husband again praises the beauty of his wife, and in highly symbolic language, the wife invites her husband to take all she has to offer; they make love, and God blesses their union.

As the marriage matures, the husband and wife go through a difficult time, symbolized in another dream: the Shulamite rejects her husband, and he leaves - overcome with guilt, she searches the city for him; but this time, instead of helping her find him, the guards beat her - symbolic of her pained conscience. However, things end happily as the lovers reunite and are reconciled.

As the song ends, they are confident and secure in their love, singing of the lasting nature of true love, and yearning to be in each other’s presence.

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Preparation for the Gospel

There are elements that prepare us for our King, Jesus, and His relationship with His bride, the church:

Song of Solomon 2:4 describes the experience of every believer who is sought and bought by Jesus. We are in a place of great spiritual wealth and are covered by His love.

And Song of Solomon 2:16 says that, “My beloved is mine, and I am his; he grazes among the lilies.” picturing the security of believers in Christ (John 10:28-29), as the Good Shepherd who knows His sheep - believers - and lays down His life for us (John 10:11). Because of Him, we are no longer stained by sin, having all our blemishes, flaws, and spots removed by His blood (Song of Solomon 4:7; Ephesians 5:27).

Practical Application

The prevalence of divorce and attempts to redefine marriage stand in glaring contrast to Solomon’s song. Marriage, says the biblical poet, is to be celebrated, enjoyed, and revered.

This book provides some practical guidelines for strengthening our marriages:

1) Give your spouse the attention he or she needs.- Take the time to truly know your spouse.

2) Encouragement and praise, not criticism, are vital to a successful relationship.

3) Enjoy God’s gift of married love.- Plan getaways. Be creative, even playful, with each other.

4) Do whatever is necessary to reassure your commitment to your spouse.- Renew your vows; work through problems and do not consider divorce as a solution.

God intends for you both to live in a deeply peaceful, secure love.

Rec#mended Reading for Song of Sol#on

Sunday Grace Day! Monday Let Him Kiss Me | Sweet to My Taste Song of Solomon 1:1-2:7

Tuesday The Little Foxes | His Garden Song of Solomon 2:8-5:1 Wednesday My Beloved, My Friend | My Dove Song of Solomon 5:2-6:10

Thursday Dance of Mahanaim | Into the Fields Song of Solomon 6:11-7:13 Friday Do Not Awaken Love | I Was a Wall Song of Solomon 8:1-14

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for Song of Sol#on

Longman, III, Tremper. Song of Songs. NICOT. Eerdmans, 2001.

Garrett, Duane A.; House, Paul R. Song of Songs, Lamentations. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 2004.

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OT Major Prophets Isaiah A coming Messiah will save people from their sins

Author

The author of the Book of Isaiah is the prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 1:1).

Date of Writing

The Book of Isaiah was written between 701 and 681 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

Isaiah was primarily called to prophesy to the kingdom of Judah in times of revival and times of rebellion. Judah was threatened with destruction by Assyria and Egypt, but was spared because of God’s mercy. Isaiah proclaimed a message of repentance from sin and the hope of God’s deliverance in the future.

Key Verses

“And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?’ Then I said, ‘Here I am! Send me.’” (Isaiah 6:8)

“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” (Isaiah 7:14)

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)

“How you are fallen from heaven, O Day Star, son of Dawn! How you are cut down to the ground, you who laid the nations low! You said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to heaven; above the stars of God I will set my throne on high; I will sit on the mount of assembly in the far reaches of the north...” (Isaiah 14:12-13)

“But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned - every one - to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.” (Isaiah 53:5-6)

“‘The wolf and the lamb shall graze together; the lion shall eat straw like the ox, and dust shall be the serpent's food. They shall not hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain,’ says the LORD.” (Isaiah 65:25)

Brief Summary

God is holy (Isaiah 6:3) and cannot allow sin to go unpunished (Isaiah 1:2; 2:11-20; 5:30; 34:1-2; 42:25). Isaiah portrays God’s oncoming judgment as a “consuming fire” (Isaiah 1:31; 30:33).

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Isaiah knows that God is compassion, grace, and mercy (Isaiah 5:25; 11:16; 14:1-2; 32:2; 40:3; 41:14-16), but the nation of Israel (both Israel and Judah) is blind and deaf to God’s commands (Isaiah 6:9-10; 42:7). Judah is compared to a vineyard that should be, and will be, trampled on (Isaiah 5:1-7), and only because of God’s mercy and His promises to Israel, will He not allow Israel or Judah to be completely destroyed. He will bring forgiveness, healing, and restoration (Isaiah 43:2, 16-19; 52:10-12).

More than any other Old Testament book, Isaiah writes of the salvation that will come through the Messiah. The Messiah will rule justly and righteously (Isaiah 9:7; 32:1) and bring peace and safety (Isaiah 11:6-9). Through the Messiah, Israel will be a light to all the nations (Isaiah 42:6; 55:4-5).

In a seeming paradox, Isaiah 53 also presents the Messiah as one who will suffer for the sin of His people. It is through His wounds that healing is achieved. It is through His suffering that our iniquity is taken away. This apparent contradiction is solved in Jesus Christ. In His first advent, Jesus was the suffering servant. In His second advent, Jesus will be the conquering and ruling King, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).

Preparation for the Gospel

Isaiah 53 describes the coming Messiah and the suffering He would endure in order to pay for our sins. In His sovereignty, God orchestrated every detail of the crucifixion to fulfill every prophecy of this chapter. The imagery of chapter 53 is poignant and prophetic and contains a complete picture of the gospel. Jesus was despised and rejected (53:3; Luke 13:34; John 1:10-11), smitten by God (53:4; Matthew 27:46), and pierced for our transgressions (53:5; John 19:34; 1 Peter 2:24). By His suffering, He paid the punishment we deserved and became for us the ultimate and perfect sacrifice (53:5; Hebrews 10:10). Although He was sinless, God laid on Him our sin, and we became righteous in Him (2 Corinthians 5:21).

Practical Application

The Book of Isaiah presents our Savior to us in undeniable detail. He is the only way to heaven, the only means of obtaining the grace of God, the only way, the only truth, and the only life (John 14:6; Acts 4:12). Knowing the price He paid for us, how can we neglect or reject “such a great salvation”? (Hebrews 2:3). We have only a few, short years on earth to come to Christ and embrace the salvation only He offers. There is no second chance after death, and eternity in hell is a very long time.

Israel had an appearance of righteousness, but it was a facade. Isaiah saw them as two-faced hypocrites. Isaiah’s desire was that they would turn from wickedness and turn to God for forgiveness and healing.

Rec#mended Reading for Isaiah

Sunday God’s Case Against Judah Isaiah 1:1-18 Monday Isaiah’s Commission Isaiah 6:1-13

Tuesday Christ – Israel’s Hope Isaiah 7:10-16; 9:1-21 Wednesday The Coming Kingdom Isaiah 11:1-16

Thursday A Great God Isaiah 40:1-31 Friday Christ Our Substitute Isaiah 53:1-12

Saturday A Glorious Salvation Isaiah 55:1-13

Rec#mended Resources for Isaiah

Oswalt, John N. The Book of Isaiah. 2 Vols. NICOT. Eerdmans, 1986.

Webb, Barry. The Message of Isaiah. BST. InterVarsity Press, 1996.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 48

OT Major Prophets Jeremiah After years of sinful behavior, Judah will be punished

Author

Jeremiah 1:1 identifies the prophet Jeremiah as the author of the Book of Jeremiah.

Date of Writing

The Book of Jeremiah was written between 630 and 580 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

The Book of Jeremiah records the final prophecies to Judah, warning of destruction if they do not repent. Jeremiah calls for the nation to turn back to God. At the same time, Jeremiah recognizes the inevitability of Judah’s destruction due to its unrepentant idolatry and immorality.

Key Verses

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.” (Jeremiah 1:5)

“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?” (Jeremiah 17:9)

“For thus says the LORD: When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will visit you, and I will fulfill to you my promise and bring you back to this place. For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:10-11)

“In the fifth month, on the tenth day of the month - that was the nineteenth year of King Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon - Nebuzaradan the captain of the bodyguard, who served the king of Babylon, entered Jerusalem. And he burned the house of the LORD, and the king's house and all the houses of Jerusalem; every great house he burned down.” (Jeremiah 52:12-13)

Brief Summary

The Book of Jeremiah is primarily a message of judgment on Judah for their idolatry (Jeremiah 7:30-34; 16:10-13; 22:9; 32:29; 44:2-3). After the death of King Josiah, the last righteous king, the nation of Judah had completely abandoned God and His commandments. Jeremiah compares Judah to a prostitute (Jeremiah 2:20; 3:1-3). God had promised that He would judge idolatry most severely (Leviticus 26:31-33; Deuteronomy 28:49-68), and Jeremiah was warning Judah that they were under God’s wrath of judgment. God had delivered Judah from destruction on countless occasions, but His mercy was at its end. Jeremiah records King Nebuchadnezzar conquering Judah and making it subject to him (Jeremiah 24:1). After further rebellion, God brought Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonian armies back to destroy and desolate Judah and Jerusalem (Jeremiah 52). Even in this most severe judgment, God promises the restoration of Judah back into the land God has given them (Jeremiah 29:10).

Preparation for the Gospel

Jeremiah 23:5-6 is a prophecy of Jesus Christ as a Branch from the house of David (23:5; Matthew 1), the king who would reign in justice and righteousness (23:5; Revelation 11:15). It is Christ who will be recognized by Israel as her Messiah as He provides salvation for His chosen ones (23:6; Romans 11:26).

Practical Application

The Prophet Jeremiah had a difficult message to preach. He loved Judah, but he loved God much more. As painful as it was for Jeremiah to deliver a consistent message of judgment to his own people, Jeremiah was obedient to what God told him to do and say. He hoped and prayed for mercy from God, but also trusted that God was good, just, and righteous. We also must obey God, even when it is difficult, recognize God’s will as more important than our own desires, and trust that God, in His infinite wisdom, and in His perfect plan, will bring about the best for His children (Romans 8:28).

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Rec#mended Reading for Jeremiah

Sunday Jeremiah Warns Judah Jeremiah 1:1-10; 2:1-13; 3:12, 22-23; 4:14-19; 6:1-30 Monday A Rebuke Jeremiah 7:1-15; 9:1-16; 17:5-18

Tuesday The Potter Jeremiah 18:1-17 Wednesday The Faithless Shepherds Jeremiah 23:1-40

Thursday Repentance & Restoration Jeremiah 24:1-25:38 Friday Israel’s Last Days Jeremiah 30:18-31:40

Saturday The Overthrow of Judah Jeremiah 52:1-34

Rec#mended Resources for Jeremiah

Thompson, John A. The Book of Jeremiah. NICOT. Eerdmans, 1980.

Harrison, R. K. Jeremiah & Lamentations. TOTC. InterVarsity Press, 1981.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 50

OT Major Prophets Lamentations A despairing poem about the destruction of Jerusalem

Author

The Book of Lamentations does not identify its author, but the tradition is that Jeremiah is the author, because he was a witness of the Babylonians destroying Jerusalem (2 Chronicles 35:25; 36:21-22).

Date of Writing

The Book of Lamentations was written between 586 and 575 B.C., during or soon after Jerusalem’s fall.

Purpose of Writing

As a result of Judah’s unrepentant idolatry, God allowed the Babylonians to destroy the city of Jerusalem; and sadly, Solomon’s Temple, which had stood for approximately 400 years, was burned to the ground. Jeremiah, an eyewitness to these events, wrote the Book of Lamentations as a lament for what occurred.

Key Verses

“The LORD has done what he purposed; he has carried out his word, which he commanded long ago; he has thrown down without pity; he has made the enemy rejoice over you and exalted the might of your foes.” (Lamentations 2:17)

“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22-23)

“But you, O LORD, reign forever; your throne endures to all generations. Why do you forget us forever, why do you forsake us for so many days? Restore us to yourself, O LORD, that we may be restored! Renew our days as of old - unless you have utterly rejected us, and you remain exceedingly angry with us.” (Lamentations 5:19-22)

Brief Summary

The Prophet Jeremiah knows that the Babylonians were God’s tool for bringing judgment on Jerusalem (Lamentations 1:12-15; 2:1-8; 4:11), that sin and rebellion were the causes of God’s wrath poured out (1:8-9; 4:13; 5:16). Lamenting is appropriate in a time of distress, but it must also give way to repentance (3:40-42; 5:21-22).

Preparation for the Gospel

Jeremiah was known as the “weeping prophet” for his deep passion for his people and their city (3:48-49). This same sorrow over the sins of the people and their rejection of God was expressed by Jesus as He approached Jerusalem and looked ahead to her destruction at the hands of the Romans (Luke 19:41-44). Because of the Jews’ rejection of their Messiah, God used the Roman government to punish His people. But God takes no joy in having to punish His children and His offer of Jesus Christ as a provision for sin shows His compassion on His people. Because of Christ, God will wipe away all tears (Revelation 7:17).

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Practical Application

Even in judgment, our God is a God of hope (Lamentations 3:24-25). No matter how far we go from Him, we have the hope that we can return to Him and find Him both compassionate and forgiving (1 John 1:9). Our God is a loving God (Lamentations 3:22), and because of His great love and compassion for us, He sent His only Son so that we would not perish in our sins, but can live eternally with Him (John 3:16). God’s faithfulness and deliverance (Lamentations 3:23, 26) are attributes that give us hope and comfort. He is a God who will deliver all those who turn to Him, confessing we can do nothing to earn His favor, and calling upon the Lord’s mercy so that we will not be consumed (Lamentations 3:22).

Rec#mended Reading for Lamentations

Sunday Grace Day! Monday Comfort to the Sorrowing | Part 1 Lamentations 1:1-22

Tuesday Comfort to the Sorrowing | Part 2 Lamentations 2:1-22 Wednesday Comfort to the Sorrowing | Part 3 Lamentations 3:1-66

Thursday Comfort to the Sorrowing | Part 4 Lamentations 4:1-22 Friday Comfort to the Sorrowing | Part 5 Lamentations 5:1-22

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for Lamentations

Garrett, Duane A.; House, Paul R. Song of Songs, Lamentations. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 2004.

Harrison, R. K. Jeremiah & Lamentations. TOTC. InterVarsity Press, 1981.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 52

OT Major Prophets Ezekiel Though Israel is in exile, the nation will be restored

Author

The prophet Ezekiel is the author of the Book (Ezekiel 1:3). He lived at the time of Jeremiah and Daniel.

Date of Writing

The Book of Ezekiel was written between 593 and 565 B.C. during the Babylonian captivity of the Jews.

Purpose of Writing

Ezekiel ministered to a generation of people who were both constantly sinful and consistently hopeless. He attempted to bring them both to repentance in the present and to confidence in the distant future.

He taught that:

1) God works through human messengers;2) even in defeat and despair God's people must affirm His sovereignty;3) God's Word never fails; 4) God is present and can be worshiped anywhere; 5) people must obey God if they expect to receive blessings; and 6) God's kingdom will come.

Key Verses

“And he said to me, ‘Son of man, I send you to the people of Israel, to nations of rebels, who have rebelled against me. They and their fathers have transgressed against me to this very day. The descendants also are impudent and stubborn: I send you to them, and you shall say to them, “Thus says the Lord GOD.” And whether they hear or refuse to hear (for they are a rebellious house) they will know that a prophet has been among them. And you, son of man, be not afraid of them, nor be afraid of their words, though briers and thorns are with you and you sit on scorpions. Be not afraid of their words, nor be dismayed at their looks, for they are a rebellious house.’” (Ezekiel 2:3-6)

“Behold, all souls are mine; the soul of the father as well as the soul of the son is mine: the soul who sins shall die.” (Ezekiel 18:4)

“Son of man, raise a lamentation over the king of Tyre, and say to him, Thus says the Lord GOD: You were the signet of perfection, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty. You were in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone was your covering, sardius, topaz, and diamond, beryl, onyx, and jasper, sapphire, emerald, and carbuncle; and crafted in gold were your settings and your engravings. On the day that you were created they were prepared. You were an anointed guardian cherub. I placed you; you were on the holy mountain of God; in the midst of the stones of fire you walked.” (Ezekiel 28:12-14)

“Say to them, As I live, declares the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live; turn back, turn back from your evil ways, for why will you die, O house of Israel?” (Ezekiel 33:11)

“And the name of the city from that time on shall be, The LORD Is There.” (Ezekiel 48:35b)

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Brief Summary

How can you cope with a world gone astray? Ezekiel, who began his ministry as a priest at age thirty, was uprooted from his homeland and marched off to Babylon as a captive at the age of twenty-five. For five years he languished in despair. At age thirty a majestic vision of Yahweh's glory captivated him. The priest and prophet discovered God was not confined to the narrow strictures of his native land. Instead, He is a universal God who commands and controls individual persons and even entire nations. In Babylon, God imparted to Ezekiel His Word for the people. This calling experience transformed Ezekiel. He became devoted to God's Word. He realized he had nothing to assist the captives in their situation, but he was convinced God's Word spoke to their condition and could give them victory in the midst of it. Ezekiel used various methods to convey God's Word to his people. He painted a picture of Jerusalem, and utilized symbolic actions and unusual conduct to secure attention. For example, he cut his hair and beard to demonstrate what God would do to Jerusalem and its inhabitants.

Ezekiel’s book can be divided into four sections:Chapters 1-24 | prophecies on the ruin of JerusalemChapters 25-32 | prophecies of God’s judgment on nearby nationsChapter 33 | a last call for repentance to Israel Chapters 34-48 | prophecies concerning the future restoration of Israel

Preparation for the Gospel

In Ezekiel 34, God condemns the leaders of Israel as false shepherds for their poor care of His people. They were well-fed, well-clothed, and well-cared for by those they had been placed over (Ezekiel 34:1-3). But Jesus is the Good Shepherd who protects His sheep and lays down His life for them (John 10:11-12). Ezekiel 34:4 describes those whom the shepherds failed to minister to as injured, lost, sick, and weak. But Jesus is the Great Physician who heals our spiritual wounds (Isaiah 53:5) by His death on the cross. He is the one who seeks and saves that which is lost (Luke 19:10).

Practical Application

Ezekiel calls us to join in a fresh and living encounter with the God of Abraham, Moses, and the prophets. He challenges us to experience a life-changing vision of God's holiness, knowledge, power, and presence; to let God direct us; to comprehend the depth of and commitment to evil that lodges in each human heart; to recognize that God holds His servants responsible for warning wicked people of their impending peril; to experience a living relationship with Jesus, who said that the new covenant is to be found in His blood.

Rec#mended Reading for Ezekiel

Sunday The Prophet’s Call Ezekiel 2:1-3:9 Monday The Prophet a Watchman Ezekiel 3:10-27 Tuesday Israel Shall Be Saved Ezekiel 11:14-21; 28:25-26 Wednesday Israel’s Sins Ezekiel 22:3-31 Thursday Israel’s Future Ezekiel 34:1-31 Friday Israel’s Restoration Ezekiel 36:1-38 Saturday Vision of the Dry Bones Ezekiel 37:1-14

Rec#mended Resources for Ezekiel

Block, Daniel I. The Book of Ezekiel. 2 Vols. NICOT. Eerdmans, 1997.

Duguid, Iain M. Ezekiel. NIVAC. Zondervan, 1999.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 54

OT Major Prophets Daniel Faithful to God in a challenging setting, Daniel is blessed

Author

The Book of Daniel identifies the prophet Daniel as its author (Daniel 9:2; 10:2).Jesus mentions Daniel as the author, as well (Matthew 24:15).

Date of Writing

The Book of Daniel was written between 540 and 530 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

In 605 B.C., Nebuchadnezzar King of Babylon had conquered Judah and deported many of its inhabitants. Daniel served in the royal court of Nebuchadnezzar and several rulers who followed Nebuchadnezzar. The Book of Daniel records the life, prophecies, and visions of the prophet Daniel.

Key Verses

“And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom.” (Daniel 1:19-20)

“You saw, O king, and behold, a great image. This image, mighty and of exceeding brightness, stood before you, and its appearance was frightening.” (Daniel 2:31)

“If this be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.” (Daniel 3:17-18)

“...for his dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom endures from generation to generation; all the inhabitants of the earth are accounted as nothing, and he does according to his will among the host of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth; and none can stay his hand or say to him, ‘What have you done?’” (Daniel 4:34-35)

“Know therefore and understand that from the going out of the word to restore and build Jerusalem to the coming of an anointed one, a prince, there shall be seven weeks. Then for sixty-two weeks it shall be built again with squares and moat, but in a troubled time. And after the sixty-two weeks, an anointed one shall be cut off and shall have nothing. And the people of the prince who is to come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary. Its end shall come with a flood, and to the end there shall be war. Desolations are decreed. And he shall make a strong covenant with many for one week, and for half of the week he shall put an end to sacrifice and offering. And on the wing of abominations shall come one who makes desolate, until the decreed end is poured out on the desolator.” (Daniel 9:25-27)

Brief Summary

Chapter 1 describes the conquest of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. Along with many others, Daniel and his three friends were deported to Babylon and because of their courage and God’s blessings upon them, they were “promoted” in the king’s service (Daniel 1:17-20).

Chapters 2-7 record Nebuchadnezzar having a dream that only Daniel could correctly interpret. Nebuchadnezzar’s dream of a great statue represented the kingdoms that would arise in the future. Nebuchadnezzar made a great statue of himself and forced everyone to worship it - Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused and were miraculously spared by God despite being thrown into a fiery furnace. Nebuchadnezzar is judged by God for his pride, but later restored once he recognized and admitted God’s sovereignty.

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Chapter 5 records Nebuchadnezzar’s son Belshazzar misusing the sacred items taken from the Temple in Jerusalem and receiving a message from God, written into the wall, in response to his sinful actions. Again, only Daniel could interpret the writing, which was a message of coming judgment from God. Daniel is then thrown into the lions’ den for refusing to pray to the emperor, but was miraculously spared. God gave Daniel a vision of four beasts, representing Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome.

Chapters 8-12 contain a vision involving a ram, a goat, and several horns - referring to future kingdoms. Chapter 9 is Daniel’s “70 Weeks” - a prophetic timeline of when the Messiah would come and be cut off. The prophecy also mentions a future ruler who will make a seven-year covenant with Israel and break it after three and a half years, followed shortly by the great judgment and consummation of all things. Daniel is visited by an angel after this great vision, and the angel explains the vision to Daniel in detail.

Preparation for the Gospel

We see in the fiery furnace and Daniel in the lions’ den a foreshadowing of salvation found in Jesus. The men declare that God is a saving God who can provide a way of escape from the fire (Daniel 3:17). In the same way, by sending Jesus to die for our sins, God has provided an escape from the fires of hell (1 Peter 3:18). In Daniel’s life, God provided an angel to shut the lions’ mouths and saved him from death. In the life of Jesus, God provides salvation from the dangers of the sin that threatens to consume us.

Daniel’s vision of the end times depicts Israel’s Messiah by whom many will be made holy (Daniel 12:10). He is our righteousness (1 Peter 5:21) by whom our sins, though blood-red, will be washed away and we will be as white as snow (Isaiah 1:18).

Practical Application

Like Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, we should always stand confidently for what we know is right. God is greater than any punishment that could come upon us. Whether God chooses to deliver us or not, He is always worthy of our trust. God knows what is best, and He honors those who trust and obey Him.

God has a plan, and His plan is down to the intricate detail. God knows and is in control of the future. Everything that God has promised has come true exactly as He promised - therefore, we should believe and trust that the things He has predicted for the future will one day occur exactly as He has declared.

Rec#mended Reading for Daniel

Sunday Daniel the Captive Daniel 1:1-2:49 Monday Nebuchadnezzar, the Proud King Daniel 3:1-4:37

Tuesday Belshazzar’s Reign Daniel 5:1-31; 7:1-8:27 Wednesday Darius’ Reign Daniel 6:1-9:27

Thursday God’s Glory Daniel 10:1-21 Friday The Conflict of Kings Daniel 11:1-45

Saturday Daniel’s Last Message Daniel 12:1-13

Rec#mended Resources for Daniel

Goldingay, John. Daniel. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 1989.

Baldwin, Joyce. Daniel. TOTC. InterVarsity Press, 1981.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 56

OT Minor Prophets Hosea Prophet’s marriage to prostitute reflects God’s relationship with Israel

Author

Hosea 1:1 identifies the author of the book as the prophet Hosea.

Date of Writing

Hosea prophesied from 785 to 725 B.C., but the Book of Hosea was written between 755 and 725 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

Hosea wrote this book to remind the Israelites (and us) that God is loving and loyal to His covenant people. In light of Israel turning to idols, God’s faithfulness is portrayed as a husband loving his unfaithful wife. Hosea’s message is also one of warning to those who would turn their backs on God’s love and loyalty. Through the marriage of Hosea and Gomer, God’s love for the idolatrous Israelites is displayed in a metaphor with the themes of sin, judgment, and forgiving love.

Key Verses

“When the LORD first spoke through Hosea, the LORD said to Hosea, ‘Go, take to yourself a wife of whoredom and have children of whoredom, for the land commits great whoredom by forsaking the LORD.’” l(Hosea 1:2)

“...and I will sow her for myself in the land. And I will have mercy on No Mercy, and I will say to Not My People, ‘You are my people’; and he shall say, ‘You are my God.’” (Hosea 2:23)

“For I desire steadfast love and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.” (Hosea 6:6)

“Take with you words and return to the LORD; say to him, ‘Take away all iniquity; accept what is good, and we will pay with bulls the vows of our lips. Assyria shall not save us; we will not ride on horses; and we will say no more, “Our God,” to the work of our hands. In you the orphan finds mercy.’” (Hosea 14:2-3)

Brief Summary

The Book of Hosea can be divided into two parts:

1) Hosea 1:1-3:5 is a description of an adulterous wife and a faithful husband, symbolic of the unfaithfulness of Israel to God through idolatry, and

2) Hosea 4:1-14:9 is a description of the condemnation of Israel, especially Samaria, for the worship of idols and her eventual restoration.

The first section of the book contains three poems illustrating how God’s children returned to idolatry. God calls Hosea to marry Gomer, but after bearing him three children, she leaves Hosea for her lovers. The symbolic meaning is seen as Hosea compares Israel’s actions to turning from marriage to prostitution. The second section contains Hosea’s condemnation of the Israelites but followed by the promises of God.

The last part of Hosea shows how God’s love once again restores His children as He forgives their sin when they turn back to Him with a repentant heart. The prophetic message of Hosea foretells the coming of Israel’s Messiah 700 years in the future, and therefore, Hosea is quoted often in the New Testament.

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Preparation for the Gospel

Hosea 2:23 is the wonderful prophetic message from God to include the Gentiles [non-Jews] as His children as recorded also in Romans 9:25 and 1 Peter 2:10. Gentiles are not originally “God’s people,” but through His mercy and grace, He has provided Jesus Christ, and by faith in Him we are grafted into the tree of His people (Romans 11:11-18). This is an amazing truth about the Church, one that is called a “mystery” because before Christ, God’s people were considered to be the Jews alone. When Christ came, the Jews were temporarily blinded until the “full number of the Gentiles has come in” (Romans 11:25).

Practical Application

The Book of Hosea assures us of God’s unconditional love for His people in the midst of His anger at sin. How can a child who is given an abundance of love, mercy, and grace treat a Father with disrespect? Yet, we have done just that for centuries. As we consider how the Israelites turned their backs on God, we need to look no further than in the mirror to see a reflection of those same Israelites.

Only by remembering how much God has done for us will we be able to avoid rejecting the One who can give us eternal life in glory instead of the hell we deserve - so we must learn to respect our Creator. Hosea has shown us that when we do sin, if we have a sorrowful heart and a promise of repentance, then God will again show His never-ending love to us (1 John 1:9).

Rec#mended Reading for Hosea

Sunday Grace Day! Monday Israel’s Willful Ignorance Hosea 4:1-19

Tuesday Grace Day! Wednesday Israel’s Glorious Future | Part 1 Hosea 3:1-5

Thursday Grace Day! Friday Israel’s Glorious Future | Part 2 Hosea 14:1-9

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for Hosea

Stuart, Douglas. Hosea - Jonah. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 1987.

Garrett, Duane A. Hosea, Joel. NAC. Broadman Holman, 1997.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 58

OT Minor Prophets Joel Locust plague pictures God’s judgment on His sinful people

Author

The Book of Joel states that its author was the prophet Joel (Joel 1:1).

Date of Writing

The Book of Joel was written between 835 and 800 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

The grain fields, the vineyards, the gardens, and the trees in Judah are devastated by a swarm of locusts. Joel describes the locusts as an army bringing divine judgment coming against the nation for her sins. The book is highlighted by two major events: 1) the invasion of locusts and 2) the outpouring of the Spirit. The initial fulfillment of this prophecy is quoted by Peter in Acts 2 as having taken place at Pentecost.

Key Verses

“What the cutting locust left, the swarming locust has eaten. What the swarming locust left, the hopping locust has eaten, and what the hopping locust left, the destroying locust has eaten.” (Joel 1:4)

“I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten...” (Joel 2:25a)

“And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions.” (Joel 2:28)

Brief Summary

A plague of locusts is followed by a severe famine, and Joel uses it all to send words of warning to Judah: unless the people repent quickly and completely, enemies will devour the land as did the natural elements. Joel calls all the people and the priests to fast and humble themselves as they seek God's forgiveness. If they will respond, there will be a renewal of blessings for the nation. But the Day of the LORD is coming. At this time the dreaded locusts will seem as gnats in comparison, as all nations receive His judgment.

The overriding theme of the Book of Joel is the Day of the LORD, as a day of God’s wrath and judgment. This is the day when God reveals His wrath, power and holiness, and it is a terrifying day to His enemies. In Chapter 1, the Day of the LORD is experienced historically by the plague of locusts upon the land. In 2:1-17, Joel uses the metaphor of the locust plague and the drought to renew a call to repentance. In 2:18-3:21, Joel describes the Day of the LORD and answers the call to repentance with prophecies of physical restoration (2:21-27), spiritual restoration (2:28-32), and national restoration (3:1-21).

Preparation for the Gospel

Whenever the Old Testament speaks of judgment for sin, the coming of Jesus Christ is foreshadowed. The prophets of the Old Testament continually warned Israel to repent, but even when they did repent, their repentance was limited to keeping the law and good works. Their temple sacrifices were but a shadow of the ultimate sacrifice, offered once for all, which would come at the cross (Hebrews 10:10). Joel tells us that God’s ultimate judgment, on the Day of the LORD, will be “...great and very awesome; who can endure it?” (Joel 2:11). The answer is that we, on our own, can never endure such a moment. But if we place our faith in Christ for atonement of our sins, we have nothing to fear on the Day of Judgment.

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Practical Application

Without repentance, judgment is certain. Our trust should not be in ourselves, but in the Lord our God. God at times may use nature, sorrow, or other common occurrences in order to draw us closer to Him. But in His mercy and grace, He has provided the definitive plan for in order for us to be saved from sin - Jesus, crucified for our sins and exchanging our sin for His perfect righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21). There is no time to lose. God’s judgment will come swiftly, as a thief in the night (1 Thessalonians 5:2), and we must be ready. Today is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2).

“Seek the LORD while he may be found; call upon him while he is near; let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the LORD, that he may have compassion on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.” (Isaiah 55:6-7).

Only by appropriating God’s salvation can we escape His wrath on the Day of the LORD.

Rec#mended Reading for Joel

Sunday Grace Day! Monday A Call to Repentance Joel 1:1-20

Tuesday Grace Day! Wednesday Punishment & Blessing Joel 2:1-32

Thursday Grace Day! Friday The Restoration of Israel Joel 3:1-21

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for Joel

Allen, Leslie C. The Books of Joel, Obadiah, Jonah, and Micah. NICOT. Eerdmans, 1976.

Stuart, Douglas. Hosea - Jonah. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 1987.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 60

OT Minor Prophets Amos Real religion isn’t just ritual but treating people with justice

Author

Amos 1:1 identifies the author of the Book of Amos as the prophet Amos.

Date of Writing

The Book of Amos was written between 760 and 753 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

Amos is a shepherd and a fruit picker from the Judean village of Tekoa when God calls him to Himself. Although he lacks education and a priestly background, Amos’ mission is directed to the north, in Israel. His messages of doom and captivity for the nation because of sin are largely unpopular and unheeded.

Amos' ministry takes place while Jeroboam II reigns over Israel and Uzziah reigns over Judah.

Key Verses

“Thus says the LORD:‘For three transgressions of Judah, and for four, I will not revoke the punishment, because they have rejected the law of the LORD, and have not kept his statutes, but their lies have led them astray, those after which their fathers walked.’” (Amos 2:4)

“For the Lord GOD does nothing without revealing his secret to his servants the prophets.” (Amos 3:7)

“I will restore the fortunes of my people Israel, and they shall rebuild the ruined cities and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards and drink their wine, and they shall make gardens and eat their fruit.” (Amos 9:14)

Brief Summary

Amos sees that beneath Israel's outward power and prosperity, the nation is inwardly corrupt to the core. The sins for which Amos rebukes them are extensive: neglect of God's Word, idolatry, pagan worship, greed, corrupted leadership, and oppression of the poor. He begins by pronouncing a judgment upon the surrounding nations, then upon his own nation of Judah, and then the harshest judgment is given to Israel. The book ends with God's promise to Amos of a future restoration of the remnant of God’s people.

Preparation for the Gospel

The Book of Amos ends with a glorious promise for the future: “‘I will plant them on their land, and they shall never again be uprooted out of the land that I have given them,’ says the LORD your God” (9:15). The fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham (Genesis 12:7; 15:7; 17:8) will occur in Christ’s reign on earth. Revelation 20 describes the reign of Christ on earth, a time of peace and joy under His perfect government.

Practical Application

Sometimes we think we are a "just a" - we are “just a” husband or wife, dad or mom, coworker or friend. Amos would be considered a "just a" - he wasn't a prophet or a priest and he was not the son of either. He was “just a” shepherd, a small businessman. Who would listen to him? But instead of making excuses, Amos obeyed and became God's powerful voice for change.

God has used "just a's" such as carpenters, fishermen, shepherds, and tax collector all through the Bible. Whatever you are in life, God can use you. Amos wasn't much. He was a "just a” - “just a” servant for God. It is good to be God's "just-a."

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Rec#mended Reading for Amos

Sunday Grace Day! Monday Personal Admonitions Amos 3:1-7; 4:6-12

Tuesday Grace Day! Wednesday The Prophet’s Intercession Amos 7:1-17; 8:1-7

Thursday Grace Day! Friday Future Kingdom Blessings Amos 9:1-15

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for Amos

Stuart, Douglas. Hosea - Jonah. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 1987.

Paul, Shalom M. Amos. HERM. Fortress Press, 1990.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 62

OT Minor Prophets Obadiah Edom will suffer for participating in Jerusalem’s destruction

Author

Obadiah 1:1 identifies the author of the Book of Obadiah as the prophet Obadiah.

Date of Writing

The Book of Obadiah was written between 848 and 840 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

Obadiah is the shortest book in the Old Testament. It has only 1 chapter, which has only 21 verses. Obadiah is a prophet of God who uses this opportunity to condemn Edom for sins against God and Israel. The Edomites are descendants of Esau and the Israelites are descendants of his twin brother, Jacob. A quarrel between these two brothers impacted each branch of their descendants for over 1,000 years. This division caused the Edomites to forbid Israel to cross their land during their Exodus from Egypt. Edom's sins of pride now require a strong word of judgment from the Lord.

Key Verses

“‘Though you soar aloft like the eagle, though your nest is set among the stars, from there I will bring you down,’ declares the LORD.” (Obadiah 1:4)

“But do not gloat over the day of your brother in the day of his misfortune; do not rejoice over the people of Judah in the day of their ruin; do not boast in the day of distress.” (Obadiah 1:12)

“For the day of the LORD is near upon all the nations. As you have done, it shall be done to you; your deeds shall return on your own head.” (Obadiah 1:15)

Brief Summary

Obadiah's message is final and it is sure: the kingdom of Edom will be destroyed completely by the Lord. Edom has been arrogant, boasting about the misfortunes of Israel, and when enemy armies attack Israel and the Israelites ask for help, the Edomites refuse and choose to fight against them, not for them. These sins of pride can be overlooked no longer. The book ends with the promise of the fulfillment and deliverance in the last days when the land will be restored to God's people as He rules over them.

Preparation for the Gospel

Obadiah 1:21 contains a foreshadowing of Christ and His church. “Saviors shall go up to Mount Zion to rule Mount Esau, and the kingdom shall be the LORD's.” These “saviors” are the apostles of Christ, ministers of the word, and especially the preachers of the good new of Jesus. They are called "saviors” because they preach salvation through the gospel of Christ and show us the way to obtain that salvation. They, and the Word preached by them, are the means by which the good news of salvation is delivered. While Christ is the only Savior who alone came to purchase salvation, as the founder and perfecter of it, saviors and deliverers of the gospel will be more and more evident as the end of the age draws near.

Practical Application

God will overcome for us if we stay true to Him. Unlike Edom, we must be willing to help in times of need. Pride is sin. We have nothing to be proud of except Jesus Christ and what He has done for us.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 63

Rec#mended Reading for Obadiah

Sunday Grace Day! Monday Grace Day!

Tuesday Grace Day! Wednesday Doom & Deliverance Obadiah 1:1-21

Thursday Grace Day! Friday Grace Day!

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for Obadiah

Allen, Leslie C. The Books of Joel, Obadiah, Jonah, and Micah. NICOT. Eerdmans, 1976.

Stuart, Douglas. Hosea - Jonah. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 1987.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 64

OT Minor Prophets Jonah Reluctant prophet, running from God, is swallowed by giant fish

Author

Jonah 1:1 identifies the prophet Jonah as the author of the Book of Jonah.

Date of Writing

The Book of Jonah was written between 793 and 758 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

Disobedience and revival are the key themes in this book. Jonah’s experience in the belly of a great fish provides him a unique opportunity to seek a unique deliverance, as he repents during this unique retreat. His initial disobedience leads not only to his personal revival, but to the revival of the Ninevites, as well. Many say the revival which Jonah brings to Nineveh is one of the greatest evangelistic efforts of all time.

Key Verses

“But Jonah rose to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the LORD.” (Jonah 1:3)

“And the LORD appointed a great fish to swallow up Jonah. And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.” (Jonah 1:17)

“I called out to the LORD, out of my distress, and he answered me; out of the belly of Sheol I cried, and you heard my voice.” (Jonah 2:2)

“When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil way, God relented of the disaster that he had said he would do to them, and he did not do it.” (Jonah 3:10)

Brief Summary

Jonah's fear and pride cause him to run from God. He does not want to preach repentance to Nineveh, as God has commanded, because they are his enemies, and he is convinced that God will not carry out His threat to destroy the city - instead he boards a ship for Tarshish, which is in the opposite direction. Soon a raging storm causes the crew to cast lots and determine that Jonah’s presence is the problem. They throw him overboard, and he is swallowed by a great fish. In the fish’s belly for 3 days and 3 nights, Jonah repents of his sin to God (what took Jonah so long?!), and the fish vomits him up on dry land. Jonah then makes the 500-mile trip to Nineveh and leads the city in a great revival - but he is displeased (actually pouts) instead of being thankful when Nineveh repents. Fortunately, Jonah learns his lesson, when God uses a wind, a plant, and a worm to teach him that He is compassionate and merciful.

Preparation for the Gospel

Jesus says that He will be in the grave for the same time Jonah was in the fish’s belly (Matthew 12:40-41). He goes on to say that while the Ninevites repented as a direct result of Jonah having preached to them, the Pharisees and teachers of the law who rejected Jesus were rejecting One who is greater than Jonah. As Jonah brought the truth of God regarding repentance and salvation to the Ninevites, so too does Jesus bring the same message (Jonah 2:9; John 14:6) of salvation of and through God alone (Romans 11:36).

Practical Application

We cannot hide from God. What He wishes to accomplish in us will come to pass, despite our objections. Ephesians 2:10 reminds us that He has plans for us and will see to it that we conform to those plans. How much easier it would be if we, unlike Jonah, would submit to Him without delay!

God’s love manifests itself in His accessibility to all, regardless of our reputation, or nationality, or race. As Christians, we are the means by which God tells the world of the offer and to rejoice in their salvation. This is an experience God wants us to share with Him, not being resentful of those who come to Christ in “last-minute conversions” or who come to Him through circumstances that are not like our own.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 65

Rec#mended Reading for Jonah

Sunday A Great Big Fish Story | Part 1 Jonah 1:1-17 Monday Grace Day!

Tuesday A Great Big Fish Story | Part 2 Jonah 2:1-10 Wednesday Grace Day!

Thursday An Obedient Prophet | Part 1 Jonah 3:1-10 Friday Grace Day!

Saturday An Obedient Prophet | Part 2 Jonah 4:1-11

Rec#mended Resources for Jonah

Alexander, T. Desmond; Baker, David W.; Waltke, Bruce K. Obadiah, Jonah, Micah. TOTC. InterVarsity Press, 1989.

Sasson, Jack M. Jonah. AB. Yale Press, 1990.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 66

OT Minor Prophets Micah Israel and Judah will suffer for their idolatry and injustice

Author

The author of the Book of Micah was the prophet Micah (Micah 1:1).

Date of Writing

The Book of Micah was written between 735 and 700 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

The message of the Book of Micah is a complex mixture of both judgment and hope. On the one hand, the prophecies announce God’s judgment upon Israel for social evils, corrupt leadership, and idolatry. This judgment was expected to result in the destruction of Samaria and Jerusalem. On the other hand, the book proclaims the restoration of the nation and also the transformation of Israel and Jerusalem. These messages of judgment and hope are not contradictory either, since restoration and transformation take place only after judgment.

Key Verses

“Hear, you peoples, all of you; pay attention, O earth, and all that is in it, and let the Lord GOD be a witness against you, the Lord from his holy temple.” (Micah 1:2)

“But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days.” (Micah 5:2)

“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8)

“Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity and passing over transgression for the remnant of his inheritance? He does not retain his anger forever, because he delights in steadfast love. He will again have compassion on us; he will tread our iniquities underfoot. You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea.” (Micah 7:18-19)

Brief Summary

The prophet condemns the priests, prophets, and rulers of Israel who exploited and mislead the people; and it is because of their sinful thoughts, words, deeds, and motives that Jerusalem will be destroyed. The prophet Micah proclaims the deliverance of the people who will go from Jerusalem to Babylon and concludes with an exhortation for Jerusalem to destroy the nations who have gathered against her.

The ideal ruler would come from Bethlehem to defend the nation, and Micah proclaims the triumph of the remnant of Israel and sees a day when God will purge the nation of idolatry and reliance on military might. The prophet sets forth a powerful and concise summary of God’s requirement for justice and loyalty

The book closes with Israel confessing its sin and being assured of deliverance through God’s mighty acts.

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Preparation for the Gospel

Micah 5:2 is a prophecy quoted when the magi searched for the king born in Bethlehem (Matthew 2:6). These kings from the East were told that from the village of Bethlehem would come the Prince of Peace, the light of the world. Micah’s message of sin, repentance and restoration finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ who is the propitiation for our sins (Romans 3:24-25) and the only way to God (John 14:6).

Practical Application

Judgment is certain if God's warnings are not heeded and His provision for sin through His Son is rejected. For the believers in Christ, God will discipline us, not because He hates us, but because He loves us. He knows that sin destroys and He wants us to be whole, which is the promise of restoration awaits those who remain obedient to Him.

Rec#mended Reading for Micah

Sunday A Message to the People Micah 1:1-2:13 Monday Grace Day!

Tuesday A Message to the Rulers Micah 3:1-4:13 Wednesday Grace Day!

Thursday The Birth & Rejection of the King Micah 5:1-15 Friday Grace Day!

Saturday A Message to the Chosen People Micah 6:1-7:20

Rec#mended Resources for Micah

Allen, Leslie C. The Books of Joel, Obadiah, Jonah, and Micah. NICOT. Eerdmans, 1976.

Waltke, Bruce K. A Commentary on Micah. Eerdmans, 2007.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 68

OT Minor Prophets Nahum Powerful, wicked Nineveh will fall before God’s judgment

Author

The author of the Book of Nahum identifies himself as Nahum, Hebrew for comforter or consoler (1:1).

Date of Writing

The Book of Nahum was written between 663 and 612 B.C., given the little that we know about him.

Purpose of Writing

Nahum did not write this book as a warning or an official “call to repentance” for the people of Nineveh. God had already sent Jonah with His promise of what would happen if they continued in their evil ways. The Ninevites at that time had repented but now lived just as bad - if not worse! - than they did before. Nahum was telling the people of Judah to not despair because God had pronounced His judgment and the Assyrians would soon be getting what they deserved.

Key Verses

“The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him.” (Nahum 1:7)

“The LORD has given commandment about you: ‘No more shall your name be perpetuated...’” (Nahum 1:14a)

“Behold, upon the mountains, the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace!” (Nahum 1:15a)

“‘Behold, I am against you,’ declares the LORD of hosts...” (Nahum 2:13a)

“There is no easing your hurt; your wound is grievous. All who hear the news about you clap their hands over you. For upon whom has not come your unceasing evil?” (Nahum 3:19)

Brief Summary

Nineveh once had responded to the preaching of Jonah and turned from their evil ways to serve the Lord. But 150 years after Jonah came, Nineveh returned to arrogance, idolatry, and violence (Nahum 3:1-4). Once again God sends one of His prophets to Nineveh preaching judgment and calling them to repent. Sadly, the Ninevites did not heed’s Nahum’s warning and were brought under the dominion of Babylon.

Preparation for the Gospel

Paul repeats Nahum 1:15 in Romans 10:15 in regard to Jesus and His ministry, as well as the apostles. Of course, it may also be understood of any Christians, whose business it is to "preach the good news." God has made peace with sinners by the blood of Christ, and has given to His people the peace which “surpasses all understanding” (Philippians 4:7). The preaching of the gospel makes their feet beautiful. The imagery here is of one who runs to others, eager and joyful to proclaim the good news.

Practical Application

God is patient and slow to anger. He gives everyone time to proclaim Him as Lord. But He is not mocked. Any time a people turn away from Him to serve their motives, He steps in with His righteous judgment. As Christians it is our duty to stand up for biblical principles and scriptural truth, for truth is our only hope.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 69

Rec#mended Reading for Nahum

Sunday Grace Day! Monday The Judge & The Verdict Nahum 1:1-15

Tuesday Grace Day! Wednesday The Execution | Part 1 Nahum 2:1-13

Thursday Grace Day! Friday The Execution | Part 2 Nahum 3:1-19

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for Nahum

Robertson, O. Palmer. The Books of Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah. NICOT. Eerdmans, 1990.

Barker, Kenneth; Bailey, Waylon. Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah. NAC. Broadman Holman, 1998.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 70

OT Minor Prophets Habakkuk Trust God even when He seems unresponsive or unfair

Author

Habakkuk 1:1 identifies the Book of Habakkuk as an oracle from the prophet Habakkuk.

Date of Writing

The Book of Habakkuk was written between 610 and 605 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

Habakkuk wonders why God is allowing His people to go through suffering at the hands of their enemies. God answers and Habakkuk’s faith is restored.

Key Verses

“O LORD, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not hear? Or cry to you ‘Violence!’ and you will not save?” (Habakkuk 1:2)

“Look among the nations, and see; wonder and be astounded. For I am doing a work in your days that you would not believe if told.” (Habakkuk 1:5)

“Are you not from everlasting, O LORD my God, my Holy One? We shall not die.” (Habakkuk 1:12a)

“And the LORD answered me:‘Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it. For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end - it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay.Behold, his soul is puffed up; it is not upright within him, but the righteous shall live by his faith.’” (Habakkuk 2:2-4)

“But the LORD is in his holy temple; let all the earth keep silence before him.” (Habakkuk 2:20)

“O LORD, I have heard the report of you, and your work, O LORD, do I fear. In the midst of the years revive it; in the midst of the years make it known; in wrath remember mercy.” (Habakkuk 3:2)

“GOD, the Lord, is my strength; he makes my feet like the deer's; he makes me tread on my high places.” (Habakkuk 3:19)

Brief Summary

The Book of Habakkuk begins with Habakkuk crying out to God for an answer to why God’s people are allowed to suffer in their captivity (Habakkuk 1:1-4). And the Lord gives His answer to Habakkuk, essentially stating, “I am doing a work in your days that you would not believe if told” (Habakkuk 1:5-11).

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Habakkuk then follows up by saying, “Ok, You are God, but still tell me more about why this is happening” l(Habakkuk 1:17-2:1). God gives him more information, and then tells the earth to be silent before Him (Habakkuk 2:2-20). Then Habakkuk writes a prayer expressing his faith in God, even through these trials (Habakkuk 3:1-19).

Preparation for the Gospel

Paul quotes Habakkuk 2:4 (Romans 1:17; Galatians 3:11) to reiterate the doctrine of justification by faith. The faith that is the gift of God and available through Christ is at once a faith that saves (Ephesians 2:8-9) and a faith that sustains throughout life - we attain eternal life by faith and we live as Christian by faith. Unlike the “proud” in the beginning of the verse, whose soul is puffed up and not upright within him, we who are made righteous by faith in Christ are made completely righteous because He has exchanged His perfect righteousness for our sin (2 Corinthians 5:21) and has empowered us to live by faith.

Practical Application

Habakkuk reminds us that it is permissible to question what God is doing, but with respect and reverence. Sometimes we cannot tell what is going on, especially if we are thrown into suffering for a period of time. The Book of Habakkuk affirms that God is a sovereign, omnipotent God who has all things under control; we simply need to be still and know He is at work. He is who He says He is and does keep His promises. He will punish the wicked. Even when we cannot see it, He is still reigning on the throne of the universe. We need to stay focused on this: “GOD, the Lord, is my strength; he makes my feet like the deer's; he makes me tread on my high places.” (Habakkuk 3:19). God is taking us to the higher places with Him where we are set apart from the world. Sometimes He must take us through suffering to get us there, but if we trust Him and rest in Him, we end up where He wants us.

Rec#mended Reading for Habakkuk

Sunday Grace Day! Monday Habakkuk’s Complaint Habakkuk 1:1-17

Tuesday Grace Day! Wednesday God’s Reply Habakkuk 2:1-20

Thursday Grace Day! Friday Habakkuk’s Song Habakkuk 3:1-19

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for Habakkuk

Robertson, O. Palmer. The Books of Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah. NICOT. Eerdmans, 1990.

Bruckner, James. Jonah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah. NIVAC. Zondervan, 2004.

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OT Minor Prophets Zephaniah A coming “day of the Lord” promises heavy judgment

Author

Zephaniah 1:1 identifies the author of the Book of Zephaniah as the prophet Zephaniah.

Date of Writing

The Book of Zephaniah was written between 735 and 725 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

Zephaniah's message of encouragement and judgment contains three major doctrines:

1) God is sovereign over all nations

2) The wicked will be punished and the righteous will be vindicated on the day of judgment

3) God blesses those who repent and trust in Him

Key Verses

“Neither their silver nor their gold shall be able to deliver them on the day of the wrath of the LORD. In the fire of his jealousy, all the earth shall be consumed; for a full and sudden end he will make of all the inhabitants of the earth.” (Zephaniah 1:18)

“Seek the LORD, all you humble of the land, who do his just commands; seek righteousness; seek humility; perhaps you may be hidden on the day of the anger of the LORD.” (Zephaniah 2:3)

“The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.” (Zephaniah 3:17)

Brief Summary

Zephaniah pronounces the Lord’s judgment on the whole earth, on Judah, on the surrounding nations, on Jerusalem and on all nations. This is followed by proclamations of the Lord’s blessing on all nations and especially on the faithful remnant of His people in Judah.

Zephaniah had the courage to speak bluntly because he knew he was proclaiming the Word of the Lord. His book begins with "The word of the LORD..." and ends with "...says the LORD." He knew that neither the many gods the people worshiped nor even the might of the entire Assyrian army could save them. God is compassionate and gracious, but when all His warnings are ignored, judgment is to be expected. God's day of judgment is frequently mentioned in Scripture. The prophets called it the "Day of the LORD." They referred to various events like the fall of Jerusalem as manifestations of God's Day, each of which pointed toward the ultimate Day of the LORD.

Preparation for the Gospel

The final blessings pronounced in 3:14-20 are largely unfulfilled, leading us to conclude that these are messianic prophecies that will not be fulfilled until the second coming of Jesus Christ has taken place. The Lord has taken away our punishment only through Christ who came to die for the sins of His people (Zephaniah 3:15; John 3:16). But Israel has not yet recognized her true Savior (Romans 11:25-27).

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The promise of peace for Israel, a time when their King is in their midst, will be fulfilled when Christ returns. Just as He returned to heaven after His resurrection, He will return and set up a new Jerusalem on earth (Revelation 21). At that time, all God’s promises to Israel will be fulfilled.

Practical Application

Zephaniah could easily preach the same message of judgment of the wicked and hope for the faithful, because he reminds us of the truth that God is offended by the moral and religious sins of His people. God's people will not escape punishment when they live a habitual, ongoing, unrepentant lifestyle of sin. Of course, punishment may be painful, but its purpose may actually be redemptive rather than punitive. The inevitability of the punishment of wickedness gives comfort when it seems that evil is victorious. We have the freedom to disobey God but not the freedom to escape the consequences of disobedience. Those who are faithful to God may be relatively few, but He does not forget them.

Rec#mended Reading for Zephaniah

Sunday Grace Day! Monday Coming Judgments | Part 1 Zephaniah 1:1-18

Tuesday Grace Day! Wednesday Coming Judgments | Part 2 Zephaniah 2:1-15

Thursday Grace Day! Friday The Kingdom Blessings Zephaniah 3:1-20

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for Zephaniah

Robertson, O. Palmer. The Books of Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah. NICOT. Eerdmans, 1990.

Barker, Kenneth; Bailey, Waylon. Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah. NAC. Broadman Holman, 1998.

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OT Minor Prophets Haggai Jews returning from exile need to rebuild God’s temple

Author

Haggai 1:1 identifies the author of the Book of Haggai as the prophet Haggai.

Date of Writing

The Book of Haggai was written in approximately 520 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

Haggai called God’s people to glorify God by building the Temple in spite of local and official opposition. He called them not to be discouraged because this Temple would not be as richly decorated as Solomon's. He encouraged them to turn from the uncleanness of their ways and to trust in God's sovereign power. The Book of Haggai is a reminder of the problems the people of God faced, how the people courageously trusted in God, and how God provided for their needs.

Key Verses

“Is it a time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins? Now, therefore, thus says the LORD of hosts: Consider your ways. You have sown much, and harvested little. You eat, but you never have enough; you drink, but you never have your fill. You clothe yourselves, but no one is warm. And he who earns wages does so to put them into a bag with holes.” (Haggai 1:4-6)

“‘The latter glory of this house shall be greater than the former,’ says the LORD of hosts. ‘And in this place I will give peace, declares the LORD of hosts.’” (Haggai 2:9)

Brief Summary

Will God’s people reconsider their priorities, take courage, and act on the foundation of God's promises? Not only did God warn them, He also offered promises through Haggai to motivate them to follow Him. Because the people of God reversed their priorities and failed to put God in His rightful place in their lives, Judah was sent into Babylonian exile. In response to Daniel's prayer and in fulfillment of God's promises, God directed Cyrus the Persian king to allow the Jews in exile to go back to their hometown in Jerusalem. A small group of Jews returned to their land with great joy, put God in His rightful place in their lives, worshiped Him and began to rebuild the Temple of Jerusalem without any help from the local people. In fact, heir courageous faith was met with opposition from the local people, as well as the Persians, for approximately 15 years.

Preparation for the Gospel

As with most of the books of the minor prophets, Haggai ends with promises of restoration and blessing. In the last verse, Haggai 2:23, God uses a distinctly messianic title in referring to Zerubbabel: “my servant.” Through Haggai, God promises to make him like a signet ring, which was a symbol of authority, honor, and power, much like a king’s scepter used to seal letters and decrees. Zerubbabel, as God’s signet ring, represents the house of David and the restarting of the messianic line that was interrupted by the exile. Zerubbabel reestablished the Davidic line of kings which would culminate in the earthly reign of Jesus. Zerubbabel appears in the line of Christ on both Joseph’s side (Matthew 1:12) and Mary’s side (Luke 3:27).

Practical Application

The Book of Haggai draws attention to common problems most people face even today. Haggai asks us:

1) to examine ourselves to see if we are more interested in our own pleasures than in doing God’s work;

2) to reject a defeated attitude when we run into discouraging circumstances or opposition;

3) to confess our sin and seek to live pure lives before God;

4) to act courageously for God because we know that He is with us always and is in full control; and

5) to rest secure in God's hands knowing that He will abundantly bless us as we faithfully serve Him.

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Rec#mended Reading for Haggai

Sunday Grace Day! Monday Grace Day!

Tuesday Haggai’s Message Haggai 1:1-15 Wednesday Grace Day!

Thursday Haggai’s Message Haggai 2:1-23 Friday Grace Day!

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for Haggai

Verhoef, Pieter A. The Books of Haggai and Malachi. NICOT. Eerdmans, 1987.

Taylor, Richard A.; Clendenen, E. Ray. Haggai and Malachi. NAC. Broadman Holman, 2004.

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OT Minor Prophets Zechariah Jewish exiles should rebuild the temple - and anticipate the Messiah

Author

Zechariah 1:1 identifies the author of the Book of Zechariah as the prophet Zechariah.

Date of Writing

The Book of Zechariah was written in two primary segments, between 520 and 470 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

Zechariah emphasized that God has used His prophets to teach, warn, and correct His people. Unfortunately, they refused to listen. Their sin brought God's punishment.

The book also shows that prophecy could be corrupt, as prophecy fell into disfavor among the Jews, leading to the period between the Testaments when no lasting prophetic voice spoke to God's people.

Key Verses

“Therefore say to them, Thus declares the LORD of hosts: ‘Return to me,’ says the LORD of hosts, ‘and I will return to you,’ says the LORD of hosts.” (Zechariah 1:3)

“‘As I called, and they would not hear, so they called, and I would not hear,’ says the LORD of hosts...” l(Zechariah 7:13)

“Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.” (Zechariah 9:9)

“And I will put this third into the fire, and refine them as one refines silver, and test them as gold is tested. They will call upon my name, and I will answer them. I will say, ‘They are my people’; and they will say, ‘The LORD is my God.’” (Zechariah 13:9)

Brief Summary

Zechariah 14 reveals people from all over the world worshiping God, who desires all people to follow Him. This is not universalism, which says that all people would be saved because it is God's nature to save. Rather, the book teaches that God desires that all people worship Him and receives those who do, regardless of their national or political background.

Finally, Zechariah preached that God is sovereign over this world, despite any appearance to the contrary. God's interventions in the world teach that ultimately He will bring human events to the end He chooses. He does not eliminate the freedom to receive Him or rebel, but holds people responsible for their choices. In Zechariah 14, even the forces of nature respond to God's control.

Preparation for the Gospel

Prophecies about Jesus abound in Zechariah. From the promise that Messiah would dwell in our midst (Zechariah 2:10-12; Matthew 1:23) to the symbolism of the Branch and the Stone (Zechariah 3:8-9, 6:12-13; Isaiah 11:1; Luke 20:17-18) to the promise of His second coming where they who pierced Him will look upon Him and mourn (Zechariah 12:10; John 19:33-37), Jesus is the main theme of Zechariah. He is the Savior of Israel, a fountain whose blood covers the sins of all who come to Him for salvation (Zechariah 13:1; 1 John 1:7).

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Practical Application

Zechariah's example of breaking through national prejudice reminds us to reach into all areas of society. We must extend God's offer of salvation to those of all cultures, languages, nations, origins, and races, which is only available through the blood of Jesus Christ on the cross, who died in our place for our sin, and if we reject that sacrifice, there is no other sacrifice through which we can be reconciled to God. There is no other name under heaven by which men are saved (Acts 4:12). There is no time to lose; today is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2).

Rec#mended Reading for Zechariah

Sunday Visions Zechariah 1:1-6:15 Monday Grace Day!

Tuesday Fasts Zechariah 7:1-8:23 Wednesday Grace Day!

Thursday Restoration of Judah & Israel Zechariah 9:1-11:17 Friday Grace Day!

Saturday The Messiah Zechariah 12:1-14:21

Rec#mended Resources for Zechariah

Meyers, Carol; Meyers, Eric. Haggai and Zechariah. 2 Vols. AB. Yale Press, 1987.

Baldwin, Joyce. Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi. TOTC. InterVarsity Press, 1981.

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OT Minor Prophets Malachi The Jews have become careless in their attitude toward God

Author

Malachi 1:1 identifies the author of the Book of Malachi as the prophet Malachi.

Date of Writing

The Book of Malachi was written between 440 and 400 B.C.

Purpose of Writing

The Book of Malachi is called an oracle: “The oracle of the word of the LORD to Israel by Malachi.” (1:1). This was God’s warning, telling the people to turn back to Him. As the final book of the Old Testament, the pronouncement of God’s justice and the promise of His restoration through the Messiah is very clear; 400 years of silence ensue, ending with a similar message from God’s next prophet, John the Baptizer, proclaiming, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 3:2).

Key Verses

“A son honors his father, and a servant his master. If then I am a father, where is my honor? And if I am a master, where is my fear? says the LORD of hosts to you, O priests, who despise my name. But you say, ‘How have we despised your name?’” (Malachi 1:6)

“For I the LORD do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed. From the days of your fathers you have turned aside from my statutes and have not kept them. ‘Return to me, and I will return to you,’ says the LORD of hosts.” (Malachi 3:6-7a)

Brief Summary

Malachi wrote to God’s people who had gone astray, especially the priests who had turned from the Lord. Priests were not treating the sacrifices they were to make to God seriously - animals with blemishes were being sacrificed even though the law demanded animals without blemishes (Deuteronomy 15:21). The men were treating their wives treacherously and wondering why God would not accept their sacrifices. Also, people were not giving cheerfully and generously as they should have been (Leviticus 27:30, 32). But in spite of the people’s sin and turning away from God, Malachi reiterates God’s love for His people (Malachi 1:1-5) and His promises of a coming messenger (Malachi 2:17–3:5).

Preparation for the Gospel

Malachi 3:1-6 is a prophecy of John the Baptizer, the messenger sent to prepare the way (Matthew 11:10). John preached repentance and baptized in the name of the Lord, preparing the way for Jesus’ first coming. But the messenger who “will suddenly come to his temple” is Christ Himself in His second coming when He comes in power and might (Matthew 24). At that time, “he will purify the sons of Levi” (Malachi 3:3), meaning that those under the law would themselves need purification from sin through the blood of Jesus. Only then will they be able to offer “offerings in righteousness” because it will be the righteousness of Christ imputed to them through faith (2 Corinthians 5:21).

Practical Application

God is not pleased when we do not obey His commands, and He will repay those who disregard Him. As for God hating divorce (2:16), God takes a marriage covenant seriously and does not want it broken. We are to stay true to one spouse for a lifetime. God sees our hearts, so He also knows our intentions; nothing can be hidden from Him. He will return and He will be the judge. But if we return to the Lord, then He will return to us (Malachi 3:6).

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Rec#mended Reading for Malachi

Sunday Sins of Priests & People | Part 1 Malachi 1:1-14 Monday Grace Day!

Tuesday Sins of Priests & People | Part 2 Malachi 2:1-17 Wednesday Grace Day!

Thursday Message of Hope | Part 1 Malachi 3:1-18 Friday Grace Day!

Saturday Message of Hope | Part 2 Malachi 4:1-6

Rec#mended Resources for Malachi

Verhoef, Pieter A. The Books of Haggai and Malachi. NICOT. Eerdmans, 1987.

Taylor, Richard A.; Clendenen, E. Ray. Haggai and Malachi. NAC. Broadman Holman, 2004.

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New Testament Promises KeptI wonder what you have your hopes set on. This is a crucial question for both you and me to answer, as many of our problems come from attaching our hopes to things that were not made to bear them - good things, and even good people, that will sink like stones in water and then pull us down with them. Some things even hold out great promise in the beginning but eventually prove to be passing fancies. In this world, promises made are not necessarily promises kept.

So we must turn to God. He made us, He knows us, and He knows where our hopes should be placed. He has set before us in the Old Testament the very promises upon which we should set our only hope. And we look to the New Testament to find the fulfillment of those promises.

Israel’s hopes had almost vanished. After their release from Babylonian exile, the Romans crushed them. Feelings of disappointment verged on despair. What about all their hopes? Would their deliverer come? Would fellowship with God be restored? Would the world be put right? God had promised all these things!

The New Testament is the story of how all the promises God made in the Old Testament, God kept.

To understand the New Testament, we look at Jesus, God’s covenant people, and the renewal of creation. In all of this, we find that God has penetrated human history and has worked for his own purposes.

The 27 books of the New Testament are divided into 5 sections:

• Gospels | Matthew through John• History | Acts• Letters | Romans through Jude• Prophecy | Revelation

The 27 books of the New Testament were written from approximately 45 A.D. to approximately 95 A.D., in Koine Greek (the everyday form of the Greek language in the first-century A.D.).

The Gospels give us four accounts of the birth, life, ministry, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, demonstrating how He was the promised Messiah of the Old Testament and also laying the foundation for the teaching of the rest of the New Testament.

Acts records the work of Jesus' apostles, the men Jesus sent out into the world to proclaim the gospel, telling us of the beginning of the church and its rapid growth in the first-century A.D.

Paul’s Letters are to specific churches - giving Christian beliefs and the behaviors that should follow them. The other Letters compliment Paul’s letters with more teaching and application for Christians in the church.

Finally, Revelation prophesies the events that will occur in the end times.

If you have questions about the Bible, in general, or the Old Testament and New Testament, in particular, then please read the frequently asked questions and check out the recommended resources located at the end of this Bible summary and survey.

I sincerely hope you find this New Testament summary and survey beneficial in your walk with Jesus!

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NT Gospels Matthew Jesus fulfills the Old Testament prophecies of a coming Messiah

Author

This book is known as the Gospel of Matthew because it was written by the apostle of the same name, and the style of the book is exactly what would be expected of a man who was once a tax collector. Matthew has a special interest in accounting (18:23-24; 25:14-15). The book is very concise and orderly. Rather than write in chronological order, Matthew arranges this Gospel through six discussions.

As a tax collector, Matthew possessed a skill that makes his writing all the more exciting for Christians. Tax collectors wrote in shorthand, which means that Matthew recorded a person’s words as they spoke. For example, the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) is likely a perfect recording of that sermon.

Date of Writing

As an apostle, Matthew wrote this book during the early period of the church, probably around 50 A.D., when most Christians were Jewish converts; so his focus on Jewish perspective is understandable.

Purpose of Writing

Matthew intends to prove to the Jews that Jesus is the promised Messiah - more than any other Gospel, Matthew quotes from the Old Testament to show how Jesus fulfilled the words of the Jewish prophets. He describes the lineage of Jesus from David and uses language that Jews would have known well. Matthew’s love and concern for his people is apparent through his approach to telling the gospel story.

Key Verses

“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” (Matthew 5:17)

“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you...” (Matthew 5:43-44)

“Pray then like this:‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.’” (Matthew 6:9-13)

“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?” (Matthew 16:26)

“And he said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.’” (Matthew 22:37-40)

“And when they had mocked him, they stripped him of the robe and put his own clothes on him and led him away to crucify him.” (Matthew 27:31)

“But the angel said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay.’” (Matthew 28:5-6)

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20)

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Brief Summary

In Chapters 1-2, Matthew covers the lineage, birth, and early life of Jesus; then he focuses on His ministry. His teachings are arranged around “discourses” such as the Sermon on the Mount in Chapters 5-7. Chapter 10 involves the mission and purpose of the disciples; Chapter 13 is a collection of parables; Chapter 18 discusses the church; Chapter 23 begins a discourse about hypocrisy and the future. Chapters 21-27 discuss the arrest, torture, and crucifixion of Jesus. Chapter 28 describes His resurrection and the Great Commission.

Presentation of the Gospel

Matthew’s purpose is to present Jesus as the King and Messiah, so he quotes from the Old Testament more than 60 times from a wide variety of prophetic passages, demonstrating how Jesus fulfilled them. He begins his gospel with the genealogy of Jesus, tracing Him back to Abraham, the father of the Jews. From there, Matthew quotes from the prophets, using the phrase “as was spoken through the prophet(s)” l(Matthew 1:22-23; 2:5-6, 15; 4:13-16; 8:16-17; 13:35; 21:4-5). These verses refer to the prophecies of His virgin birth (Isaiah 7:14) in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2), His return from Egypt after Herod’s death (Hosea 11:1), His ministry to the Gentiles (Isaiah 9:1-2; 60:1-3), His miraculous healing of body and soul (Isaiah 53:4), His speaking in parables (Psalm 78:2), and His triumphal entry into Jerusalem (Zechariah 9:9).

Practical Application

Matthew is useful for understanding how the life of Christ is the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecy.

Matthew’s intended audience was fellow Jews, many of whom - especially Pharisees and Sadducees - stubbornly refused to accept Jesus as their Messiah. In spite of centuries of studying the Old Testament, their eyes were blinded to the truth of who Jesus was. Jesus rebuked them for their hard hearts and their refusal to recognize the One for whom they had supposedly been waiting for centuries (John 5:38-40). They wanted a Messiah, but one who would fulfill their own desires and do what they wanted Him to do. How often do we seek God on our own terms, ascribing to Him only those attributes we find acceptable, the ones that make us feel good - His love, mercy, grace - while rejecting those we find objectionable - His wrath, justice, and holy anger? We must not make the mistake of creating God in our own image and then expecting Him to live up to our standards, because such a god is nothing more than an idol. The Bible gives us more than enough information about the true nature and identity of God through Jesus to warrant our worship and our obedience.

Rec#mended Reading for Matthew

Sunday The King Born Matthew 1:18-2:23 Monday The King Begins Work Matthew 4:1-25

Tuesday The King States Kingdom Laws Matthew 5:1-17, 41-48; 6:19-34 Wednesday The King & His Followers Matthew 10:1-33

Thursday The Kingdom Mysteries Matthew 13:1-52 Friday The King Offers Himself as King Matthew 21:1-11

Saturday The King Will Return Matthew 25:14-16

Rec#mended Resources for Matthew

Carson, D. A. Matthew. 2 Vols. EBC. Zondervan, 1984.

Blomberg, Craig L. Matthew. NAC. Broadman Holman, 1992.

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NT Gospels Mark Jesus is God’s Son, a suffering servant of all people

Author

Although the Gospel of Mark does not name its author, the early church testified that Mark was the author. He was an associate of Peter, and his “spiritual” son (1 Peter 5:13). From Peter he received first-hand, eye-witness information of the events and teachings Jesus, and preserved the information in written form.

Date of Writing

The Gospel of Mark was one of the first books written in the New Testament, probably in 57-59 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

Mark’s gospel seems to be targeted to the Roman believers, particularly those who are Gentile believers. Mark wrote as a pastor to Christians who previously had heard and believed the gospel (Romans 1:8). He desired that they have a biography of Jesus as Servant and the Lord and Savior of the world in order to strengthen their faith in the face of persecution and to teach them what it meant to be His disciples.

Key Verses

“And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.’” (Mark 1:11)

“And Jesus said to them, ‘Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men.’” (Mark 1:17)

“But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, ‘Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.’” (Mark 10:14-15)

“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” l(Mark 10:45)

“And to love him with all the heart and with all the understanding and with all the strength, and to love one's neighbor as oneself, is much more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.” (Mark 12:33)

“And he said to them, ‘Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here. See the place where they laid him.’” (Mark 16:6)

Brief Summary

This gospel emphasizes Jesus’ actions more than His teaching. It is simply written and moves quickly Mark does not begin with a genealogy as Matthew does; Gentiles were not interested in Jesus’ lineage. After the introduction of Jesus at His baptism, Jesus began His public ministry and called His first disciples. What follows is the record of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection.

Mark’s gospel is not just a collection of stories, but a narrative written to reveal that Jesus is the Messiah, In a dynamic profession, the disciples, led by Peter, acknowledged their faith in Jesus (Mark 8:29-30), even though they failed to understand fully His Messiahship until after His resurrection.

As we follow His work in Galilee, the surrounding areas, and Judea, we realize what a rapid pace He set. He touched the lives of many people, but He left an indelible mark on His disciples. At the transfiguration (Mark 9:1-9), He gave Peter, James, and John a preview of His future return in both power and glory, and again it was revealed to them who He was.

However, in the days leading to His final trip to Jerusalem, we see them bewildered, doubting, and fearful. At Jesus’ arrest, He stood alone. In the following hours of the mock trials, Jesus boldly proclaimed that He is the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One, and that He would be triumphant at His return (Mark 14:61-62). The events of the crucifixion, death, burial and resurrection were not witnessed by most of His disciples. After the Sabbath, in the morning of the first day of the week, women went to the tomb with burial spices. When they saw the stone had been rolled away, they entered the tomb, and saw an angel robed in white. The joyful message they received was, “He is risen!” The women were the first to spread the good news! This same message has been broadcast throughout the world in the following centuries down to us today.

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Presentation of the Gospel

Because Mark’s audience was the Gentiles, he does not quote from the Old Testament like Matthew. He does not begin with a genealogy, but with the baptism of Jesus, the beginning of His earthly ministry. But even there, Mark quotes an Old Testament prophecy regarding the messenger - John the Baptizer - who would “prepare the way of the Lord” (Mark 1:3; Isaiah 40:3) as they awaited their coming Messiah.

Jesus does refer to the Old Testament in several passages in Mark:

In Mark 7:6, Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for their superficial worship of God with their lips while their hearts were far from Him and refers to Isaiah to convict them of their hardheartedness (Isaiah 29:13).

Jesus referred to another prophecy which was to be fulfilled as the disciples scattered like sheep without a shepherd when Jesus was arrested and put to death (Mark 14:27; Zechariah 13:7).

He referred again to Isaiah when He cleansed the Temple (Mark 11:15-17; Isaiah 56:7; Jeremiah 7:11) and to the Psalms when He explained that He was the chief cornerstone of our faith and of the church (Mark 12:10-11; Psalm 118:22-23).

Practical Application

Mark presents Jesus as the suffering servant of God (Mark 10:45) who came to serve and sacrifice for us, Now we are to serve as He did, with the same greatness of devotion and humility to the service of others. Jesus tells us to remember that to be great in God’s kingdom, we must be the servant of all (Mark 10:44). Self-sacrifice should transcend our need for recognition or reward, just as Jesus was willing to be humbled as He lay down His life for the sheep.

Rec#mended Reading for Mark

Sunday The Servant’s Coming & Testing Mark 1:1-20 Monday The Servant Working Mark 2:1-3:25

Tuesday The Servant Speaking Mark 4:1-6:13 Wednesday The Servant’s Miracles Mark 6:32-8:26

Thursday The Servant’s Revelation Mark 8:27-10:34 Friday The Servant’s Rejection Mark 11:1-12:44

Saturday The Servant’s Death & Triumph Mark 14:1-16:8

Rec#mended Resources for Mark

Lane, William L. The Gospel of Mark. NICNT. Eerdmans, 1974.

France, R. T. The Gospel of Mark. NIGTC. Eerdmans, 2002.

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NT Gospels Luke Jesus is Savior of all people, whether Jew or Gentile

Author

From both Luke 1:1-4 and Acts 1:1-3, it is very clear that the same author wrote both Luke and Acts. The tradition from the earliest days of the church has been that Luke, a physician and a friend of Paul, wrote both Luke and Acts (Colossians 4:14; 2 Timothy 4:11), making Luke the only Gentile to write any books of Scripture.

Date of Writing

The Gospel of Luke was written between 58 and 65 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

As with the other two synoptic gospels - Matthew and Mark - this book’s purpose is to reveal the Lord Jesus Christ and all He “began to do and to teach, until the day he was taken up” to heaven (Acts 1:1-2). Luke’s gospel is a meticulous history, an “orderly account” (Luke 1:3) consistent with the his medical mind. Luke’s history of the life of the Great Physician emphasizes His ministry to - and compassion for - Gentiles, Samaritans, women, children, tax collectors, sinners, and others regarded as outcasts in Israel.

Key Verses

“And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.” (Luke 2:4-7)

“John answered them all, saying, ‘I baptize you with water, but he who is mightier than I is coming, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.’” l(Luke 3:16)

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.”“And he began to say to them, ‘Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.’” (Luke 4:18-19, 21)

“And taking the twelve, he said to them, ‘See, we are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written about the Son of Man by the prophets will be accomplished. For he will be delivered over to the Gentiles and will be mocked and shamefully treated and spit upon.’” (Luke 18:31-32)

“And when they came to the place that is called The Skull, there they crucified him, and the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. And Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.’” l(Luke 23:33-34a)

“But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus.” (Luke 24:1-3)

Brief Summary

Luke tells us about Jesus' parents; the birth of His cousin, John the Baptizer; Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem, where Jesus is born in a manger; and the genealogy of Christ through the line of Mary. Jesus' ministry reveals His perfect compassion and forgiveness through the accounts of the prodigal son, the rich man and Lazarus, and the Good Samaritan. His disciples are told to count the cost of following, while His enemies seek His death on the cross. Finally, Jesus is betrayed, tried, sentenced and crucified. But His resurrection assures the continuation of His work to seek and save the lost!

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Presentation of the Gospel

Since Luke was a Gentile, his references to the Old Testament are relatively few compared to Matthew, and most of the Old Testament quotes are in the words spoken by Jesus rather than in Luke’s narration. Jesus used the Old Testament to fight Satan’s temptation, answering him with “It is written” (Luke 4:1-13); to identify Himself as the promised Messiah (Luke 4:17-21); to remind the Pharisees of their inability to keep the Law and their need of a Savior (Luke 10:25-28, 18:18-27); and to confound their learning when they tried to trap and trick Him (Luke 20).

Practical Application

Luke gives us a picture of our compassionate Savior. Jesus was not “turned off” by the poor and the needy; in fact, they were a primary focus of His ministry. In Jesus’ day, Israel was a very class-conscious society. The weak were powerless to improve their lot in life and were especially open to the hopeful message that “the kingdom of God has come near to you” (Luke 10:9) - a this is still a message of hope today. Even in comparatively wealthy countries - perhaps especially so - the spiritual need is extremely serious. Christians must follow the example of Jesus and bring the good news to the spiritually poor and needy. The kingdom of God is near and the time grows shorter every day.

Rec#mended Reading for Luke

Sunday The Man “Made Like His Brothers” Luke 1:1-3:38 Monday The Man “Tempted as We Are” Luke 4:1-8:3

Tuesday The Man “Sympathizes with Our Weaknesses” Luke 8:4-12:48 Wednesday The Man “In My Father’s House” Luke 12:49-16:31

Thursday The Man “No One Ever Spoke Like” Luke 17:1-19:27 Friday The Man, Our Kinsman-Redeemer Luke 19:28-23:56

Saturday The Man in Resurrection Glory Luke 24:1-53

Rec#mended Resources for Luke

Bock, Darrell L. Luke. 2 Vols. BECNT. Baker, 1994.

Stein, Robert H. Luke. NAC. Broadman Holman, 1993.

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NT Gospels John Jesus is God Himself, the only Savior of the world

Author

John 21:20-24 describes the author as "the disciple whom Jesus loved," and for both biblical and historical reasons, this is understood to be the apostle John, one of the sons of Zebedee (Luke 5:10).

Date of Writing

The Gospel of John was likely written between 85 and 90 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

John 20:31 gives us the purpose for the entire Gospel of John: "...but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name." John’s purpose is not to present a chronological narrative of the life of Jesus, but to display His deity. He was seeking to strengthen the faith of second-generation believers and to bring about faith in others, but he also sought to correct a false teaching that had been spreading. John emphasized Jesus Christ as "the Son of God," fully God and fully man, contrary to the false doctrine which saw the "Christ-spirit" as coming upon the human Jesus at His baptism and leaving Him at the crucifixion.

Key Verses

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. ... And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:1, 14)

“The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, ‘Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!’” (John 1:29)

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.” l(John 3:16-18)

“Jesus answered them, ‘This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.’” (John 6:29)

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” l(John 10:10)

“I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.”(John 10:28)

“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?’” (John 11:25-26)

“By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35)

“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” l(John 14:6)

“Jesus said to him, ‘Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, “Show us the Father”?’” (John 14:9)

“Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.” (John 17:17)

“When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, ‘It is finished,’ and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.” (John 19:30)

“Jesus said to him, ‘Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.’” (John 20:29)

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Brief Summary

John selects only seven miracles as signs to demonstrate the deity of Jesus and to illustrate His ministry. His is the most theological gospel and often gives the reason behind events mentioned in the others. There are certain phrases or words that John often uses that show the repeating themes of his gospel: believe, witness, Comforter, life/death, light/darkness, I am... (as in Jesus is the "I Am"), and love.

John's gospel introduces Jesus, not from His birth, but from "the beginning" as "the Word" who, as deity, is involved in every aspect of creation (1:1-3) and who becomes flesh (1:14) to might take away our sins as the spotless, sacrificial Lamb (1:29).

John selects several conversations to explain how one is saved by Jesus’ death on the cross (3:14-16). Jesus repeatedly angers the Jewish leaders by correcting them (2:13-16); by healing on the Sabbath, and by claiming attributes belonging only to God (5:18; 8:56-59; 9:6, 16; 10:33). Jesus prepares His disciples for His coming death and for their ministry after His resurrection and ascension (John 14-17). He then willingly dies on the cross in our place for our sins (10:15-18), paying our sin debt in full (19:30), so that whoever trusts in Him as Savior from sin will be saved (John 3:14-16). He then rises from death, convincing even the most doubting of His disciples that He is God and Master (20:24-29).

Presentation of the Gospel

John’s portrayal of Jesus as the God of the Old Testament is seen in the seven “I am” statements of Jesus. He is the “bread of life” (John 6:35), the “light of the world” (John 8:12), both the “Good Shepherd” and the “door of the sheep” (John 10:7-18), “the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25), “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6), and finally, the “true vine” (John 15:1, 5).

Practical Application

John's gospel is very useful for evangelism (i.e. John 3:16) and is often used in evangelistic Bible studies. Jesus’ encounters with Nicodemus and the woman at the well (chapters 3-4) serve as a perfect model. His comforting words to His disciples before His death (14:1-6, 16; 16:33) are still of great comfort in the times death claims our loved ones in Christ, as is His “high priestly prayer” for believers in chapter 17. John's teachings concerning the deity of Christ (1:1-3, 14; 5:22-23; 8:58; 14:8-9; 20:28, etc.) are very helpful in countering the false teachings of some of the cults who see Jesus as being less than fully God.

Rec#mended Reading for John

Sunday Christ Became Flesh John 1:1-51 Monday Christ So Loved John 3:1-36

Tuesday Christ Satisfies John 4:1-54 Wednesday Christ, the Bread of Life John 6:1-59

Thursday Christ, the Light of the World John 9:1-41 Friday Christ, Our Shepherd John 10:1-39

Saturday Christ Promises the Comforter John 14:1-31

Rec#mended Resources for John

Carson, D. A. The Gospel According to John. PNTC. Eerdmans, 1990.

Köstenberger, Andreas J. John. BECNT. Baker, 2004.

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NT Church History Acts The Holy Spirit’s arrival marks the beginning of Christian church

Author

From both Luke 1:1-4 and Acts 1:1-3, it is very clear that the same author wrote both Luke and Acts. The tradition from the earliest days of the church has been that Luke, a physician and a friend of Paul, wrote both Luke and Acts (Colossians 4:14; 2 Timothy 4:11).

Date of Writing

The Book of Acts was likely written between 61-64 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

The Book of Acts was written to provide a history of the early church, beginning with the day of Pentecost and the early Christians being empowered by the Holy Spirit to be effective witnesses for Jesus Christ. Acts records the apostles being His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the end of the world. The book shows the gift of the Holy Spirit, who empowers, guides, serves, and teaches as our Counselor. Reading the book of Acts, we are encouraged by the work done by the disciples Peter, John, and Paul. The book stresses obedience to God and the transformation that occurs as a result of knowing Christ. There are also many references to those that rejected the truth that the disciples preached about Jesus. The lust for power, greed, and many other vices of the devil are also evidenced in the book.

Key Verses

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)

“And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.” (Acts 2:4)

“And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)

“But Peter and John answered them, ‘Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard.’” (Acts 4:19-20)

“Now as [Saul] went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. And falling to the ground he heard a voice saying to him, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?’ And he said, ‘Who are you, Lord?’ And he said, ‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.’” (Acts 9:3-6)

“And they said, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.’” (Acts 16:31)

Brief Summary

The Book of Acts gives the history of the Christian church and the spread of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Although many faithful servants were used to preach the gospel, it was Paul who was the most influential. Before was conversion, Paul persecuted Christians. After his conversion, Paul was a pastor of Christians. The disciples were empowered by the Holy Spirit to be His witnesses in Jerusalem (chapters 1:1-8:3), Judea and Samaria (chapters 8:4-12:25), and then finally to the ends of the earth (chapters 13:1-28). The last section includes Paul’s missionary journeys (13:1-21:16), his trials in Jerusalem and Caesarea (21:17-26:32), and his final journey to Rome (27:1-28:31).

Participation in the Gospel

The Book of Acts transitions from the old covenant of law-keeping to the new covenant of grace and faith. First, there was a change in the ministry of the Holy Spirit, who had anointed people in the Old Testament; Moses (Numbers 11:17), Othniel (Judges 3:8-10), Gideon (Judges 6:34), and Saul (1 Samuel 10:6-10). After the resurrection of Jesus, the Spirit came to live within the very hearts of believers (Romans 8:9-11; 1 Corinthians 3:16), guiding and empowering them from within. The indwelling Spirit is the gift of God to those who come to Him in faith.

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Paul’s conversion was a dramatic example of the transition from the old covenant to the new covenant. Paul was very zealous and was blameless concerning the righteousness of the law (Philippians 3:6), even going so far as to persecute and kill those who taught salvation by grace through faith in Christ. But after his conversion, he realized that all his legalistic efforts were worthless, and he considered them “rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith” (Philippians 3:8b-9). Now we, too, live by faith, not by the works of the law, so there is no boasting (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Also, Peter’s vision of the sheet in Acts 10:9-15 is another sign of the transition from the Old Covenant - dietary laws for the Jews - into the new covenant’s unity of Jews and Gentiles in one universal church. The “clean” animals symbolizing the Jews and the “unclean” animals symbolizing the Gentiles were both declared “cleansed” by God through the sacrificial death of Jesus - no longer under the old covenant of law, both are now united in the new covenant of grace through faith in the shed blood of Christ on the cross.

Practical Application

God can do amazing things through ordinary people when He empowers them through His Holy Spirit. God essentially took a group of fisherman and used them to turn the world upside down (Acts 17:6). God took a persecutor of Christians and changed him into the greatest pastor and preacher of the gospel. God used persecution to cause the quickest expansion of a "new faith" in the history of the entire world. God can and does do the same through us - He changes our hearts, He empowers us by the Holy Spirit, and He gives us passion to share and spread the good news of salvation that comes only through Jesus. If we try to accomplish this in our own power, we will fail; like the disciples in Acts 1:8, we are to wait for the empowering of the Spirit, then go in His power to fulfill the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20).

Rec#mended Reading for Acts

Sunday First Church in Jerusalem Acts 1:1-4:37 Monday Witnessing in Jerusalem Acts 5:1-8:3

Tuesday Witnessing in Judea & Samaria Acts 8:4-12:25 Wednesday Paul Establishes the Churches | First Tour Acts 13:1-15:35

Thursday Paul Revisits the Churches | Second Tour Acts 15:36-18:21 Friday Paul Encourages the Churches | Third Tour Acts 18:22-25:9

Saturday Paul Sent to Rome Acts 25:10-28:31

Rec#mended Resources for Acts

Bruce, F.F. Fee, Gordon D. ed. The Book of Acts. NICNT. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1988.

Stott, John R.W. The Message of Acts: The Spirit, the Church, and the World. BST. IVP Academic, 1994.

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NT Letters Romans Sinners are saved only by faith in Jesus Christ

Author

Romans 1:1 identifies the author of the Book of Romans as the apostle Paul.Romans 16:22 indicates that Paul used a man name Tertius to transcribe his words.

Date of Writing

The Book of Romans was written between 56-58 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

As with all of Paul’s letters to the churches, his purpose in writing was to proclaim the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ by teaching doctrine and to edify and encourage the believers who would receive his letter. Because he was a Roman citizen, he had a unique passion for those in the group of believers in Rome. Since he had not yet visited the church in Rome, this letter also served as his introduction to them.

Key Verses

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.” (Romans 1:16)

“What then? Are we Jews any better off? No, not at all. For we have already charged that all, both Jews and Greeks, are under sin, as it is written: ‘None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God.’” (Romans 3:9-11)

“But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it...” (Romans 3:21)

“...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God...” (Romans 3:23)

“...but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)

“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23)

“You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him.” (Romans 8:9)

“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:37-39)

“...if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.” (Romans 10:9-10)

“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” (Romans 12:1)

“Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’” (Romans 12:19)

“I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them.” (Romans 16:17)

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Brief Summary

Paul was excited about ministering in this church, and all were well aware of that fact (Romans 1:8-15). He had intended to go to Rome and then on to Spain (Romans 15:24), but he was arrested in Jerusalem. He would eventually go to Rome as a prisoner.

The Book of Romans is primarily a work of doctrine and can be divided into the following four sections: 1) righteousness needed (1:18-3:20)2) righteousness provided (3:21-8:39)3) righteousness vindicated (9:1-11:36)4) righteousness practiced (12:1-15:13)

Romans tells us about God; who He is, what He has done. It tells us of Jesus, what His death has done. It tells us about ourselves, what we were like without Christ and also who we are after trusting in Christ. Paul points out that God did not demand men have their lives straightened out before coming to Christ. While we were still sinners Christ died in our place and for our sins.

Participation in the Gospel

Paul uses several Old Testament people and events as illustrations of the truths in the Book of Romans. Abraham believed and righteousness was imputed to him by his faith, not by his works (Romans 4:1-5). In Romans 4:6-9, Paul quotes David, who wrote the same truth: “Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven, and whose sins are covered; blessed is the man against whom the Lord will not count his sin." Paul uses Adam to explain to the Romans the doctrine of sin, and he uses the lives of Sarah and Isaac, to illustrate the truth that Christians are the children of the promise of the grace of God through Christ. In chapters 9-11, Paul recounts Israel’s history, saying that God has not rejected them (Romans 11:11-12), but has allowed them to “stumble” only until the full number of the Gentiles will be brought to salvation.

Practical Application

Romans makes it clear that we cannot save ourselves; even our “good” deeds are like filthy rags to God. In fact, we are so dead in our trespasses and sins that only the grace and mercy of God can save us. God expressed that grace and mercy by sending His Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross in our place. When we trust in Him, we are no longer controlled by our sin nature, but we are controlled by the Spirit. If we confess that Jesus is Lord, and believe that He is raised from the dead, we are saved - born again! We live as living sacrifices to Him, and worship of the God who saved us becomes our highest desire. Let us not be ashamed of the gospel; instead, let us all be faithful in proclaiming it!

Rec#mended Reading for R#ans

Sunday What We Are by Nature Romans 1:1-3:20 Monday How to Become a Christian Romans 3:21-5:21 Tuesday How to Live a Christian Life Romans 6:1-23 Wednesday A Struggle Romans 7:1-25 Thursday The Life of Victory Romans 8:1-39 Friday The Jews Set Aside Romans 9:30-11:12 Saturday The Christian’s Service Romans 12:1-21

Rec#mended Resources for R#ans

Moo, Douglas J. The Epistle to the Romans. NICNT. Eerdmans, 1996.

Schreiner, Thomas R. Romans. BECNT. Baker, 1998.

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NT Letters 1 Corinthians An apostle tackles sin problems in the church at Corinth

Author

1 Corinthians 1:1 identifies the author of the Book of 1 Corinthians as the apostle Paul.

Date of Writing

The Book of 1 Corinthians was written in approximately 55 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

A few years after planting the Corinthian church, the apostle Paul heard some bad reports about the church. They were full of pride and were excusing sexual immorality; spiritual gifts were being used improperly, and there was rampant misunderstanding of key Christian doctrines. The apostle Paul wrote his first letter to the Corinthians in an attempt to restore the Corinthian church to its foundation - Jesus Christ.

Key Verses

“...you are still of the flesh. For while there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not of the flesh and behaving only in a human way?” (1 Corinthians 3:3)

“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)

“To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” (1 Corinthians 12:7)

“Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” (1 Corinthians 13:4-7)

“For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures...” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4)

Brief Summary

The Corinthian church was known for dividing into groups with certain leaders (1 Corinthians 1:12; 3:1-6), but Paul told the Corinthian believers to be united because of devotion to Christ (1 Corinthians 3:21-23). Many in the church were also essentially approving of an immoral relationship (1 Corinthians 5:1-2), and Paul went so far as to command them to expel the wicked man from the church (1 Corinthians 5:13). Another issue was that the Corinthian believers were taking each other to court (1 Corinthians 6:1-2). Paul taught them that it would be better to be taken advantage of than to damage their Christian testimony (1 Corinthians 6:3-8).

Paul gave the Corinthian church instructions on marriage and celibacy (chapter 7), food sacrificed to idols (chapters 8 and 10), Christian freedom (chapter 9), the veiling of Christian women (1 Corinthians 11:1-16), the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:17-34), spiritual gifts (chapters 12-14), and the resurrection (chapter 15). Paul organized the book of 1 Corinthians by answering questions the Corinthian believers had asked him and by responding to false beliefs and improper behavior they had accepted.

Participation in the Gospel

In chapter 10, Paul uses the Old Testament experience of the Israelites wandering in the wilderness to illustrate to the Corinthian believers the folly of the misuse of freedom and the danger of overconfidence. He even goes on to describe the Israelites who, despite seeing God’s miracles and care for them - the parting of the Red Sea, the miraculous provision of manna from heaven and water from a rock - they misused their freedom, rebelled against God, and fell away from God into immorality and idolatry. Paul exhorts them to note the example of the Israelites and avoid lusts and sexual immorality (10:6-8) and putting Christ to the test and complaining (10:9-10; Numbers 11:4, 34, 25:1-9; Exodus 16:2, 17:2, 7).

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Practical Application

Many of the problems and questions the Corinthian church dealt with are still present in the church today. Churches today still struggle with divisions, with immorality, and with the improper use of spiritual gifts. Paul was writing also to the church today and we would do well to heed his warnings and apply them. Despite all the rebukes and corrections, he brings our focus back to where it should be - on Christ. Christian love is the answer to our problems (chapter 13). An understanding of the resurrection of Christ (chapter 15), and an understanding of our own resurrection, is the cure for what divides and defeats us.

Rec#mended Reading for 1 Corinthians

Sunday Divisions in the Church 1 Corinthians 1:10-31 Monday Human Wisdom 1 Corinthians 2:1-16

Tuesday Worldliness in the Church 1 Corinthians 3:1-23 Wednesday Immorality in the Church 1 Corinthians 5:1-13

Thursday The Lord’s Supper 1 Corinthians 11:1-34 Friday Hymn of Love 1 Corinthians 13:1-13

Saturday The Resurrection 1 Corinthians 15:1-58

Rec#mended Resources for 1 Corinthians

Fee, Gordon D. The First Epistle to the Corinthians. NICNT. Eerdmans, 1987.

Garland, David E. 1 Corinthians. BECNT. Baker, 2003.

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NT Letters 2 Corinthians Paul defends his ministry to the troubled Corinthian church

Author

2 Corinthians 1:1 identifies the author of the Book of 2 Corinthians as the apostle Paul.

Date of Writing

The Book of 2 Corinthians was written in approximately 55-57 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

The church in Corinth was planted in 52 A.D. when Paul visited there on his second missionary journey. He stayed one and a half years, the first time he was allowed to stay in one place as long as he wished. A record of this visit and the planting of the church is found in Acts 18:1-18.

Paul expresses his joy and relief that they had received his “severe” letter (now lost) in a positive manner; that letter addressed the issues that were tearing the church apart, primarily the arrival of false apostles (2 Corinthians 11:13) who attacked Paul’s character, sowed discord in the church, and taught false doctrine. They seemed to question his honesty (2 Corinthians 1:15-17), his preaching (2 Corinthians 10:10; 11:6), and his unwillingness to accept financial support from the church at Corinth (2 Corinthians 11:7-9; 12:13). There were also some people who had not repented of their sinful behavior (2 Corinthians 12:20-21).

Positively, Paul found the Corinthians had well received his “severe” letter - he was overjoyed to learn from Titus that the majority of them repented of their rebellion against Paul (2 Corinthians 2:12-13; 7:5-9), and he encourages them for this behavior in an expression of his genuine love (2 Corinthians 7:3-16). Paul also sought to vindicate his apostleship, as some had questioned his authority (2 Corinthians 13:3).

Key Verses

“Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God...” (2 Corinthians 3:5)

“And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.” (2 Corinthians 3:18)

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” l(2 Corinthians 5:17)

“For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” (2 Corinthians 5:21)

“We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ...” (2 Corinthians 10:5)

“For he was crucified in weakness, but lives by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but in dealing with you we will live with him by the power of God.” (2 Corinthians 13:4)

Brief Summary

After greeting the believers and explaining why he had not visited them as originally planned (1:3-2:2), Paul explains that triumph through Christ and sincerity in God’s sight were key to his ministry (2:14-17). He compares the glorious ministry of the righteousness of Christ to the “ministry of condemnation” which is the Law (3:9) and declares his faith in the validity of his ministry in spite of intense persecution (4:8-18). In chapter 5, Paul outlines the basis of the Christian faith - the new nature (5:17) and the exchange of our sin for the righteousness of Christ (5:21).

In chapters 6-7, Paul defends himself and his ministry, reassuring the Corinthians of his sincere love for them and exhorting them to repentance and holy living. In chapters 8-9, Paul exhorts the believers in Corinth to follow the examples of the brothers in Macedonia and extend generosity to believers in need. He teaches them the principles and rewards of generous and gracious giving.

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In chapter 10, Paul reiterates his authority and concern for their faithfulness in the face of hard opposition. In chapter 11, he calls himself a “fool” for reluctantly boasting of his qualifications and suffering for Christ. In chapter 12, he describes the vision of heaven he was allowed to experience and the “thorn in the flesh” he was given by God to ensure his humility. In chapter 13, he exhorts them to examine themselves to see whether what they profess is reality, and ends with a benediction of love and peace.

Participation in the Gospel

Throughout his letters, Paul compares the law with the gospel of Jesus Christ and His salvation by grace. In 2 Corinthians 3:4-11, Paul contrasts law with grace, saying that the law “kills” while the Spirit gives life. The law is the “ministry of death, carved in letters on stone” (3:7), so we may know sin and condemnation. The glory the law is that it reflects the glory of God, but the ministry of the Spirit is much more glorious, because it reflects His grace, love, and mercy in providing Jesus as the fulfillment of the law.

Practical Application

This letter tells us more about Paul as a person, pastor, and church planter than any of the other letters. That being said, one thing that we know to apply is stewardship, not only of money, but of time as well. The Macedonians “gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us.” (2 Corinthians 8:5). In the same way, we should cheerfully dedicate not only all we have to the Lord, but also all that we are! He doesn't need our money. He is all-powerful! He wants the heart, one that longs to love and serve. Stewardship and giving to God is more than just money. Yes, God wants us to give part of our income, and He promises to bless us when we give to Him. There is more though. He wants 100% of who we are. He wants us to give Him our all. Everything we are. We should spend our lives living to serve our Father. We should not only give to God from our paycheck, but our very lives should be a reflection of Him. We should give ourselves first to the Lord, then to the church and the work of the ministry of Jesus Christ!

Rec#mended Reading for 2 Corinthians

Sunday Christ Our Comfort 2 Corinthians 1:1-2:17 Monday Living Epistles 2 Corinthians 3:1-4:18

Tuesday Ambassadors for Christ 2 Corinthians 5:1-6:18 Wednesday The Heart of Paul 2 Corinthians 7:1-8:15

Thursday Christian Giving 2 Corinthians 8:16-9:15 Friday Paul’s Apostleship 2 Corinthians 10:1-11:33

Saturday God’s Strength 2 Corinthians 12:1-13:14

Rec#mended Resources for 2 Corinthians

Garland, David E. 2 Corinthians. NAC. Broadman Holman, 1999.

Harris, Murray J. The Second Epistle to the Corinthians. NIGTC. Eerdmans, 2005.

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NT Letters Galatians Christians are free from restrictive Jewish laws

Author

Galatians 1:1 clearly identifies the apostle Paul as the writer of the letter to the Galatians.

Date of Writing

Depending on where exactly the Book of Galatians was sent and during which missionary journey Paul planted the churches in that area, the Book of Galatians was written somewhere between 48 and 55 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

The churches in Galatia were composed of converted Jews and Gentiles, as was generally the case. The main subject is the same as that which is discussed in Romans, which is justification by faith alone. In this letter, however, Paul focuses on the point that men are justified by faith without works of the law.

The essential truth of justification by faith rather than by the works of the law had been obscured by the Judaizer’s insistence that believers in Christ must keep the law if they expected to be perfect before God. When Paul learned that this teaching had penetrated the Galatian churches and that it had alienated them from their heritage of freedom, he wrote the passionate response contained in this letter.

Key Verses

“...we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.” (Galatians 2:16)

“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20)

“Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law, for ‘The righteous shall live by faith.’” l(Galatians 3:11)

“...to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!” (Galatians 4:5-6)

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23)

“Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.” (Galatians 6:7)

Brief Summary

The result of justification by grace through faith is spiritual freedom - Paul appealed to the Galatians to stand firm in their freedom, and not “submit again to a yoke of bondage (the law)” (Galatians 5:1). Christian freedom is not for gratifying one’s sinful nature, but to love one another (Galatians 5:13; 6:7-10). The flesh (the sinful nature) has been crucified with Christ (Galatians 2:20); and, as a consequence, the Spirit will bear His fruit such as love, joy, and peace in the life of the believer (Galatians 5:22-23).

The letter to the Galatians was written by Paul in a spirit of inspired agitation with those in the church. The issue was not if a person was circumcised, but if he had become “a new creation” (Galatians 6:15). If Paul had not been successful in his argument, Christianity would have remained a sect within Judaism. Galatians, therefore, has become the letter of every believer who confesses with Paul, “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20).

The books of James and Galatians may seem to be in conflict, though in reality they are complementary. James insists on the lifestyle of Christians, demanding that our faith prove its existence by our fruits. Nevertheless, James emphasizes the need of the transformation by the grace of God (James 1:18). Paul was not less concerned than James about the lifestyle of a Christian in the church (Galatians 5:13). Like the two sides of a coin, these two truths of the Christian life must always accompany one another.

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Participation in the Gospel

In Galatians, saving grace - the gift of God - is contrasted with the law of Moses, which does not save. The Judaizers, who would return to the law as their source of justification, were prominent in the church, even temporarily drawing such a prominent Christian as Peter into their web of deceit (Galatians 2:11-13). So Paul had to continually reiterate the truth that salvation by grace had nothing to do with law-keeping.

The themes connecting Galatians to the Old Testament center around the law vs. grace:

• the inability of the law to justify (2:16)• the believer’s deadness to the law (2:19)• Abraham’s justification by faith (3:6)• the law bringing not salvation but God’s wrath (3:10)• and love, not works, fulfilling the law (5:14)

Practical Application

One of the main themes of the Book of Galatians is found in 3:11, that “The righteous shall live by faith.” Not only are we saved by faith (John 3:16; Ephesians 2:8-9), the life of the believer is sustained by faith. Not that faith is something we work up on our own - it is the gift of God - but it is our delight and our duty to exhibit our faith so that others will see the work of Christ in us and increase our faith.

Jesus said we would be known by the fruit of our lives (Matthew 7:16) which gives evidence of faith in us. All Christians should be striving to build upon the faith within us so that with our lives we reflect Christ and others will see Him in us and “give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).

Rec#mended Reading for Galatians

Sunday Only One Gospel Galatians 1:1-24 Monday Justified by Faith Galatians 2:1-21

Tuesday The Law Points to Christ Galatians 3:1-29 Wednesday Law & Grace Galatians 4:1-31

Thursday Stand Fast in Christian Liberty Galatians 5:1-16 Friday Flesh vs. Spirit Galatians 5:17-26

Saturday Sowing & Reaping Galatians 6:1-18

Rec#mended Resources for Galatians

Bruce, F. F. The Epistle to the Galatians. NIGTC. Eerdmans, 1982.

Longenecker, Richard N. Galatians. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 1990.

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NT Letters Ephesians Christians are all members of Jesus’ “body,” the church

Author

Ephesians 1:1 identifies the author of the Book of Ephesians as the apostle Paul.

Date of Writing

The Book of Ephesians was very likely written between A.D. 60-63.

Purpose of Writing

Enclosed within the Book of Ephesians is the discipline needed to grow up into true children of God. Furthermore, Ephesians helps to establish the believer so he can fulfill the purpose that God has given. The aim of this letter is to confirm and to equip a maturing church, presenting a balanced view of the body of Christ and its importance in God's kingdom.

Key Verses

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places...” (Ephesians 1:3)

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:8-10)

“There is one body and one Spirit – just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call – one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” l(Ephesians 4:4-6)

“...submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.” (Ephesians 5:21)

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.” (Ephesians 6:10-11)

Brief Summary

The first half of this letter relates to our standing in Christ, and the second half of it affects our condition.

First, as followers of Christ, we must fully understand who God declares us to be as created in His image. Next, our present existence and walk must become exercised and strengthened until we no longer totter or stagger back and forth with every spirit of teaching and subtlety of men.

Paul’s writing breaks down into three main segments:

1) Chapters 1-3 introduce principles with respect to God's accomplishment. 2) Chapters 4-5 put forth principles regarding our present existence.3) Chapter 6 presents principles concerning our daily struggle.

Participation in the Gospel

The main link to the Old Testament in Ephesians is in the church as the body of Christ (Ephesians 5:32). This mysterious truth revealed about the church is that “the Gentiles are fellow heirs (with the Israelites), members of the same body...partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.” (Ephesians 3:6).

This was a mystery completely hidden from those who were Old Testament believers (Ephesians 3:5, 9).

The Israelites had always believed that they alone were God’s chosen, special people (Deuteronomy 7:6). Accepting Gentiles was difficult and caused many disputes among Jewish believers and Gentile converts.

Paul also speaks of the church as the “bride of Christ,” an unheard-of concept in the Old Testament.

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Practical Application

Ephesians emphasizes the connection between sound beliefs and right behaviors within the Christian life. Far too many people ignore "theology" and instead want to only discuss that which is seen as "practical." In Ephesians, Paul argues that theology is practical - in order to live out God's will in our lives practically, we must first understand who we are in Christ theologically.

Rec#mended Reading for Ephesians

Sunday The Believer’s Position Ephesians 1:1-23 Monday Saved by Grace Ephesians 2:1-22

Tuesday A Mystery Revealed Ephesians 3:1-21 Wednesday A Christian’s Walk Ephesians 4:1-32

Thursday Following Christ Ephesians 5:1-20 Friday Living with Others Ephesians 5:21-6:9

Saturday Christian Warfare Ephesians 6:10-24

Rec#mended Resources for Ephesians

O'Brien, Peter T. The Letter to the Ephesians. PNTC. Eerdmans, 1999.

Hoehner, Harold W. Ephesians: An Exegetical Commentary. Baker, 2002.

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NT Letters Philippians “Friendship letter” between the apostle Paul and a beloved church

Author

Philippians 1:1 identifies the author of the Book of Philippians as the apostle Paul.

Date of Writing

The Book of Philippians was written in approximately 61 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

Paul wrote this letter from prison in Rome. He visited Philippi on his second missionary journey (Acts 16:12). Now, some years later, the church was well established, as may be inferred from Paul’s beginning words, addressing the established leaders of the church as “overseers (elders) and deacons” (Philippians 1:1).

This is a tender letter to a group of Christians who were close to the heart of Paul (2 Corinthians 8:1-6).

Key Verses

“For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21)

“But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ.” (Philippians 3:7)

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.” (Philippians 4:4)

“...do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)

“I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)

Brief Summary

Philippians is about Christ in our life and mind, Christ as our goal and strength, and joy through suffering. It was written about 30 years after Christ’s ascension and about 10 years after Paul preached in Philippi.

Paul was Nero’s prisoner, yet the letter shouts with triumph, the words “joy” and “rejoice” appearing often (Philippians 1:4, 18, 25-26; 2:2, 28; 3:1; 4:1, 4, 10). Right Christian experience is the outworking, whatever our circumstances may be, of the life and mind of Christ in us (Philippians 1:6, 11; 2:5, 13). Philippians reaches its pinnacle at 2:5-11 with the glorious and profound words regarding the humiliation and exaltation of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Philippians may be divided as follows:

Introduction (1:1-7)I. Christ is the Christian’s Life: Rejoicing in Spite of Suffering (1:8-30)

II. Christ is the Christian’s Pattern: Rejoicing in Lowly Service (2:1-30)III. Christ is the Object of the Christian’s Faith, Desire, and Expectation (3:1-21)

IV. Christ is the Christian’s Strength: Rejoicing Through Anxiety (4:1-9)Conclusion (4:10-23)

Participation in the Gospel

Paul warned the believers in the church of Philippi to beware of the legalism which crops up in churches. The Judaizers were so tied to Old Testament law that they kept returning to teaching salvation by works. Paul preached salvation is by faith in Christ and he called the Judaizers “dogs” and “men who do evil.” He explained that those who have been washed by the blood of the Lamb were no longer to perform the ritual of circumcision that symbolized the need for a clean heart.

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Practical Application

Philippians is one of Paul’s most personal letters, and so it has several personal applications to believers:

First, he was writing during his imprisonment in Rome, and exhorting the Philippians to follow his example of and be “much more bold to speak the word (of God) without fear” (Philippians 1:14) during persecution. All Christians experience, at one time or another, the hatred of unbelievers against the gospel of Christ. This is expected. Jesus said that the world hated Him and it will hate His followers as well (John 5:18). Paul exhorts us to persevere in the face of persecution, to “(stand) firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel,” (Philippians 1:27).

A second application of Philippians is the need for Christians to be united in the humility of Jesus Christ. We are united with Jesus Christ and we also need to strive to be united to one another in the same way. Paul reminds us to be “of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind” to “do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves; look not only to (our) own interests, but also to the interests of others” (Philippians 2:2-4). There would be far less conflict in churches today if we learned and lived out Paul’s words!

And a final application of Philippians is that of the joy and rejoicing which are found throughout his letter. Paul rejoices that Jesus Christ is being proclaimed (Philippians 1:8); he rejoices in his persecution (2:18); he exhorts others to rejoice in the Lord (3:1); he refers to Christian brothers as his “joy and crown” (4:1). He ends with this exhortation to believers: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.” (4:4). As believers, we can rejoice and experience the peace of God by casting all our cares on Him, if we “in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let (our) requests be made known to God.” (4:6). Paul’s joy, in spite of persecution and imprisonment, shines through this letter, and we are promised the same joy he experienced when we center our thoughts on the Lord (4:8)!

Rec#mended Reading for Philippians

Sunday Joy Triumphs over Suffering Philippians 1:1-30 Monday Joy in Christ Philippians 2:1-11

Tuesday Joy in Salvation Philippians 2:12-30 Wednesday Joy in Christ’s Righteousness Philippians 3:1-9

Thursday Joy in Christ’s Will Philippians 3:10-21 Friday Joy in Christ’s Strength Philippians 4:1-7

Saturday Joy in Christ’s Provision Philippians 4:8-23

Rec#mended Resources for Philippians

O'Brien, Peter T. The Epistle to the Philippians. NIGTC. Eerdmans, 1991.

Fee, Gordon D. Paul's Letter to the Philippians. NICNT. Eerdmans, 1995.

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NT Letters Colossians Jesus Christ is supreme - over everyone and everything

Author

The apostle Paul is the primary writer of the Book of Colossians (Colossians 1:13).

Date of Writing

The Book of Colossians was written between 58-62 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

The Book of Colossians is a mini-course on Christian ethics, addressing every area of the Christian life. Paul works from the individual life to the home and family, from work to the way we should treat others. The theme of this book is the sufficiency of our Lord, Jesus Christ, in meeting our needs in every area.

Key Verses

“He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities – all things were created through him and for him.” (Colossians 1:15-16)

“See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.” (Colossians 2:8)

“Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.” (Colossians 3:12-13)

“Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.” (Colossians 4:5-6)

Brief Summary

Colossians was written to defeat the heresy that had arisen in Colossae, which endangered the church. While we do not know what was told to Paul, he seems to be dealing with a defective view of Christ. He appears to dispute the “Jewish” emphasis on circumcision and traditions (Colossians 2:8-11; 3:11). The heresy seems to be either a Jewish-Gnosticism or a mix of Jewish asceticism and Greek philosophy. Whatever the case, Paul does a remarkable job in pointing us to the sufficiency of Christ!

The Book of Colossians contains instruction about the deity of Christ and false philosophies (1:15-2:23), as well as practical exhortations regarding Christian conduct, including friends and speech (3:1-4:18).

Participation in the Gospel

As with all of the early churches, the issue of Jewish legalism in Colossae was of great concern to Paul. So radical was salvation by grace apart from works that those steeped in law found it difficult to grasp; so there was a continual movement among the legalists to add requirements from the law to this faith. Among them was the requirement of circumcision, which was still practiced among some of the Jews. Paul counters this error by declaring that circumcision no longer necessary because Jesus had come - His was a circumcision of the heart, not the flesh, making the ceremonial rites of the Old Testament law no longer necessary (Deuteronomy 10:16, 30:6; Jeremiah 4:4, 9:26; Acts 7:51; Romans 2:29).

Practical Application

The basic application is the complete sufficiency of Christ, both for our salvation and our sanctification. We must know and understand the gospel so as not to be led astray by forms of legalism and heresy. We must be on guard for any deviation that would diminish the centrality of Christ as Lord and Savior. Any “religion” that tries to equate itself with truth using books that claim the same authority as the Bible, or which combines some human effort with some divine accomplishment in salvation, must be avoided.

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Other religions cannot be combined with Christianity. Jesus gives us absolute standards of following Him. Christianity is a family, a way of life, and a relationship - it is not individualistic and it is not a religion. Also, good deeds, astrology, occultism, and horoscopes do not show us God’s ways. Only Christ does! His will is revealed in His word, His love letter to us; we must get to know it and be known by it!

Rec#mended Reading for Colossians

Sunday Paul’s Greeting & Prayer Colossians 1:1-14 Monday Seven Superiorities of Christ Colossians 1:15-29

Tuesday Christ Exalted Philippians 2:1-16 Wednesday Complete in Christ Colossians 2:1-19

Thursday Old & New Man Colossians 2:20-3:11 Friday Christian Living Colossians 3:12-25

Saturday Christian Graces Colossians 4:1-18

Rec#mended Resources for Colossians

O'Brien, Peter T. Colossians, Philemon. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 1982.

Wright, N. T. Colossians and Philemon. TNTC. InterVarsity Press, 1989.

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NT Letters 1 Thessalonians Jesus will return gather His followers to Him

Author

1 Thessalonians 1:1 indicates that the Book of 1 Thessalonians was written by the apostle Paul.

Date of Writing

The Book of 1 Thessalonians was written in approximately 50 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

In the church of Thessalonica there was a wide variety of misunderstandings about the return of Christ. Paul desired to clear them up in his letter. He also writes this letter as an instruction in holy living.

Key Verses

“For this reason, when I could bear it no longer, I sent to learn about your faith, for fear that somehow the tempter had tempted you and our labor would be in vain.” (1 Thessalonians 3:5)

“...for this reason, brothers, in all our distress and affliction we have been comforted about you through your faith.” (1 Thessalonians 3:7)

“For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.” (1 Thessalonians 4:14-17)

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

Brief Summary

In chapters 1-3, Paul explains that he longs to visit the church there, but Satan has stopped him (2:18). However, Paul cares for them, is encouraged to hear how they had been, and prays for them (3:11-13). In chapter 4, Paul instructs the believers in Thessalonica how to live, in Christ Jesus, a holy life (4:1-12). He tells them that the people who have died in Jesus Christ will also go to heaven when He comes back (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, 5:1-11). The letter ends with final instructions of living the Christian life.

Participation in the Gospel

Paul tells the Thessalonians that the persecution they were getting from their “own countrymen” (2:14) is the very same persecution that the Old Testament prophets suffered (Jeremiah 2:30; Matthew 23:31). Jesus warned that the true prophets of God would always be opposed by the unrighteous (Luke 11:49). In Colossians, Paul reminds them of that truth.

Practical Application

This book can be applied to many life situations:

1) It gives us confidence as Christians that when Christ returns we will be together with Him (4:13-18).2) It assures us as Christians that we won’t receive God’s wrath (5:8-9).

3) It instructs us how to walk the Christian life daily (4:1-5:28).

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Rec#mended Reading for 1 Thessalonians

Sunday Christ’s Coming an Inspiration to Young Christians 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 Monday Christ’s Coming an Encouragement to the Faithful Servant 1 Thessalonians 2:1-20

Tuesday Christ’s Coming an Incentive to Love Among Christians 1 Thessalonians 3:1-4:12 Wednesday Christ’s Coming a Comfort to the Bereaved 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

Thursday Christ’s Coming a Challenge to Holy Living 1 Thessalonians 5:1-28 Friday Christ’s Sudden Coming Matthew 24:1-27

Saturday Tribulation Days Matthew 24:29-51

Rec#mended Resources for 1 Thessalonians

Wanamaker, Charles A. The Epistles to the Thessalonians. NIGTC. Eerdmans, 1990.

Green, Gene L. The Letters to the Thessalonians. PNTC. Eerdmans, 2002.

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NT Letters 2 Thessalonians Christians should persevere in their work until Jesus returns

Author

2 Thessalonians 1:1 indicates that the Book of 2 Thessalonians was written by the apostle Paul.

Date of Writing

The Book of 2 Thessalonians was written in 51-52 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

The church in Thessalonica was still struggling with some misconceptions about the Day of the Lord. They thought it had come already so they had stopped working. They were also being persecuted badly. Paul wrote to clear up misconceptions and to comfort them.

Key Verses

“...indeed God considers it just to repay with affliction those who afflict you, and to grant relief to you who are afflicted as well as to us, when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with his mighty angels...” l(2 Thessalonians 1:6-7)

“But we ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you as the firstfruits to be saved, through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth.”(2 Thessalonians 2:13)

“But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one.” (2 Thessalonians 3:3)

“For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.” (2 Thessalonians 3:10)

Brief Summary

Paul commends them for what they are doing in the Lord, and prays for them (2 Thessalonians 1:11-12). In chapter 2, Paul explains what will happen when the Day of the Lord comes (2 Thessalonians 2:1-12). Paul then encourages them to stand firm and instructs them to keep away from idle men who do not live by the gospel (2 Thessalonians 3:6).

Participation in the Gospel

Paul refers to several Old Testament passages on the end times, confirming and reconciling the prophets. Much of his teaching on the end times in this letter is based upon the prophet Daniel and his visions. In 2 Thessalonians 2:3-9, he refers to Daniel’s prophecy regarding the “man of sin” (Daniel 7-8).

Practical Application

The Book of 2 Thessalonians is filled with information that helps to explain the events of the end times. It also exhorts us not to be idle and to work for what we have. There are also some great prayers in 2 Thessalonians that can be an example for us on how to pray for other believers today.

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Rec#mended Reading for 2 Thessalonians

Sunday Paul’s Salutations 2 Thessalonians 1:1-4 Monday Christ’s Coming Our Comfort 2 Thessalonians 1:5-12

Tuesday Events Preceding Christ’s Coming 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12 Wednesday An Appeal to Sound Doctrine 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17

Thursday The Close of the Age Matthew 24:13-31 Friday Warnings to the Wicked Concerning His Coming Matthew 24:30-31; Mark 8:38; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-8; Jude 1:14-15; Revelation 1:7

Saturday Consistent Christian Conduct 2 Thessalonians 3:1-18

Rec#mended Resources for 2 Thessalonians

Wanamaker, Charles A. The Epistles to the Thessalonians. NIGTC. Eerdmans, 1990.

Green, Gene L. The Letters to the Thessalonians. PNTC. Eerdmans, 2002.

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NT Letters 1 Timothy Pastors are taught how to conduct their lives and churches

Author

The Book of 1 Timothy was written by the apostle Paul (1 Timothy 1:1).

Date of Writing

The Book of 1 Timothy was written in 62-66 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

Paul wrote to Timothy to encourage him in his responsibility for overseeing the work of the church (1:3). This letter lays the foundation for elders (3:1-7), and provides guidance for other leaders, as well (3:8-13). In essence, 1 Timothy is a manual for church leadership and organization.

Key Verses

“For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus...”(1 Timothy 2:5)

“The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task. Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God's church? He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, into a snare of the devil.” (1 Timothy 3:1-7)

“Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless. Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things. Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well. For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.”(1 Timothy 3:8-13)

“The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.” l(1 Timothy 4:9-10)

“Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” (1 Timothy 6:12)

Brief Summary

This is the first letter Paul wrote to Timothy, a young pastor who had been a help to Paul in his work. Paul was a mentor to Timothy, like a father to him, and Timothy was like a son to Paul (1 Timothy 1:2). Paul begins the letter by encouraging Timothy to be on guard for false teachers and false teachings. Chapter 2 instructs Timothy in worship. Chapter 3 focuses on developing mature leaders for the church. Most of the letter deals with pastoral conduct, warnings about false teachers, and the church’s mission. All through the letter, Paul encourages Timothy to stand firm, to persevere, and to be true to his calling.

Participation in the Gospel

Paul’s cites the Old Testament as the basis for considering church elders to be worthy of “double honor” and deserving of respect when it comes to being charged of any wrongdoing (1 Timothy 5:17-19). Deuteronomy 24:15, 25:4 and Leviticus 19:13 speak of the need to pay a worker what he has earned. Deuteronomy 19:15 said two or three witnesses were necessary to bring an accusation against a man. The Jewish Christians in the churches Timothy pastored would have been well aware of these commands.

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Practical Application

Jesus Christ is the mediator between God and man (1 Timothy 2:5), the Savior to all who believe in Him. He is Chief Shepherd of the church, and Timothy serves as an under shepherd by pastoring His church.

Paul instructs young Timothy on matters of church doctrine, church leadership, and church organization. We can use those same instructions in leading and organizing our local churches today.

The qualifications, ministry, and work of a pastors, elders, and deacons are just as important in our day. Paul’s first letter to Timothy amounts to an instruction book on leading and organizing the local church. For those believers who are not called into leadership roles in their church, the book is still practical. Every believer must contend for the faith, avoid false teaching, stand firm, and persevere.

Rec#mended Reading for 1 Timothy

Sunday Put Up a Good Fight 1 Timothy 1:1-20 Monday Pray for All Men 1 Timothy 2:1-15

Tuesday Church Leadership 1 Timothy 3:1-16 Wednesday The Good Minister of Jesus Christ 1 Timothy 4:1-16

Thursday A Minister’s Task 1 Timothy 5:1-25 Friday Briefing the Christian Minister 1 Timothy 6:1-21

Saturday The Whole Book 1 Timothy 1:1-6:21

Rec#mended Resources for 1 Timothy

Mounce, William D. Pastoral Epistles. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 2000.

Towner, Philip H. The Letters to Timothy and Titus. NICNT. Eerdmans, 2006.

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NT Letters 2 Timothy The apostle Paul’s final words to his beloved coworker, Timothy

Author

2 Timothy 1:1 identifies the author of the Book of 2 Timothy as the apostle Paul.

Date of Writing

The Book of 2 Timothy was written in approximately 67 A.D., shortly before Paul was put to death.

Purpose of Writing

Imprisoned in Rome yet again, Paul recognized that his earthly life was likely coming to an end very soon. He looked past his own circumstances to express concern for the churches, and specifically for Timothy. Paul wanted to use his last words to encourage Timothy, and all other believers, to persevere in their faith (2 Timothy 3:14) and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 4:2).

Key Verses

“...for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” (2 Timothy 1:7)

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

“...preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.” (2 Timothy 4:2)

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:7-8)

Brief Summary

Paul encourages Timothy to remain founded in Christ and firm in sound doctrine (2 Timothy 1:1-2, 13-14). Paul reminds Timothy to avoid ungodly beliefs and behavior and anything immoral (2 Timothy 2:14-26). In the end times there will be both intense persecution and apostasy from the faith (2 Timothy 3:1-17). Paul closes with an plea for believers to stand firm in the faith and to finish the race (2 Timothy 4:1-8).

Participation in the Gospel

Paul was so concerned about the dangers of false teachers for Timothy and those that he pastored that he invoked the story of the Egyptian magicians who opposed Moses (Exodus 7:11, 22; 8:7, 18-19; 9:11). He predicts the same fate for those who resist Christ, “their folly will be plain to all” (2 Timothy 3:9).

Practical Application

It is easy to get side-tracked in the Christian life. We must fix our eyes on the prize: Jesus (2 Timothy 4:8). We avoid both false beliefs and ungodly behavior by being grounded in our knowledge of God’s Word and being firm in our refusal to accept anything that is unbiblical.

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Rec#mended Reading for 2 Timothy

Sunday Stir Up Thy Gift 2 Timothy 1:1-9 Monday Hold Fast to the Truth 2 Timothy 1:10-18

Tuesday Endure Hardness as a Soldier 2 Timothy 2:1-15 Wednesday Follow Righteousness 2 Timothy 2:16-26

Thursday Know the Scriptures 2 Timothy 3:1-17 Friday Be Faithful to the End 2 Timothy 4:1-22

Saturday Receive a Crown 1 Corinthians 9:25; 2 Timothy 4:8; James 1:12; 1 Peter 5:4; Revelation 2:10; 3:11

Rec#mended Resources for 2 Timothy

Mounce, William D. Pastoral Epistles. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 2000.

Towner, Philip H. The Letters to Timothy and Titus. NICNT. Eerdmans, 2006.

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NT Letters Titus Church leaders are instructed on their lives and teaching

Author

Titus 1:1 identifies the apostle Paul as the author of the Book of Titus.

Date of Writing

The letter to Titus was written in approximately 66 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

This letter was written by the apostle Paul to encourage his brother in the faith, Titus, whom he had left in Crete to lead the church which Paul had planted on one of his three missionary journeys (Titus 1:5). In this letter, Paul advises Titus in regard to what qualifications to look for in leaders for the church. He also warns Titus of the reputations of those living on the island of Crete (Titus 1:12).

Paul also continued to disciple Titus and others as they grew in the grace of the Lord (Titus 3:13).

Key Verses

“This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you...” (Titus 1:5)

“They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good work.” (Titus 1:16)

“Declare these things; exhort and rebuke with all authority. Let no one disregard you.” (Titus 2:15)

“For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior...” (Titus 3:3-6)

Brief Summary

Imagine how wonderful it must have been when Titus received a letter from his mentor, the apostle Paul! Paul was a highly respected man, and rightly so, after planting several churches throughout the world. This introduction from Paul would have been read by Titus: “To Titus, my true child in a common faith: Grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior.” (Titus 1:4).

Paul is following up with Titus to encourage and instruct him in developing leaders in the church at Crete. He also suggested how Titus would instruct the leaders so that they could grow in their own faith in Christ. His instructions included those for both men and women of all ages (Titus 2:1-8).

To help Titus continue in his faith in Christ, Paul suggested that Titus come to visit him (Titus 3:12-13).

Participation in the Gospel

Once again, Paul needs to instruct the leaders of the church to be on guard against the Judaizers, those who sought to add works to the gifts of grace and faith in Jesus Christ which produce salvation. He warns against those who are rebellious deceivers, especially those who continue to claim circumcision and an adherence to the rituals and ceremonies of the Mosaic Law were still necessary (Titus 1:10-11); this is a recurring theme throughout the letters of Paul, and in the book of Titus, he goes so far as to say that they must be silenced.

Practical Application

Paul commands us to be pure as we avoid the things which will defile both our minds and consciences. And then Paul makes a statement which should never be forgotten: “They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good work” (Titus 1:16). As Christians, we must examine ourselves to be sure we line up with our profession of faith in Christ (2 Corinthians 13:5).

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Along with this warning, Paul also tells us how to avoid denying God: “...he saved us...by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior...” (Titus 3:5b-6). By seeking a daily renewal of our minds by the Holy Spirit we can mature into Christians who honor God by the way we live.

Rec#mended Reading for Titus

Sunday Grace Day! Monday Church Leadership Titus 1:1-9

Tuesday Church Enemies Titus 1:10-16 Wednesday Church Influence Titus 2:1-8

Thursday Church Rule Titus 2:9-15 Friday Church Works Titus 3:1-15

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for Titus

Mounce, William D. Pastoral Epistles. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 2000.

Towner, Philip H. The Letters to Timothy and Titus. NICNT. Eerdmans, 2006.

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NT Letters Philemon Paul begs mercy for a runaway slave converted to Christianity

Author

The author of the Book of Philemon was the apostle Paul (Philemon 1:1).

Date of Writing

The Book of Philemon was written in approximately 60 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

This letter to Philemon, which is the shortest of all Paul's writings, addresses the practice of slavery. Philemon was a slave owner who also hosted a church in his home. During Paul's ministry in Ephesus, Philemon had likely journeyed to the city, heard Paul's preaching and, as a result, became a Christian. The slave Onesimus robbed his master, Philemon, and ran away, making his way to Rome and to Paul. Onesimus was still Philemon’s slave, and Paul wrote to smooth the way for his return to his master. Through Paul’s witnessing to him, Onesimus had become a Christian (Philemon 1:10) and Paul wanted Philemon to accept Onesimus as a brother in Christ and not merely as a slave.

Key Verses

“...I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective for the full knowledge of every good thing that is in us for the sake of Christ.” (Philemon 1:6)

“...no longer as a bondservant but more than a bondservant, as a beloved brother - especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.” (Philemon 1:16)

“If he has wronged you at all, or owes you anything, charge that to my account.” (Philemon 1:18)

Brief Summary

Paul does not condemn slavery, but he presented Onesimus as a Christian brother instead of a slave. When an owner refers to a slave as a brother, he has reached a position in which the title is meaningless. The early church did not attack slavery, but laid a foundation for a relationship between owner and slave. Paul attempted to unite Philemon and Onesimus with love so that freedom would become necessary; because it is only after exposure to the light of the gospel that the institution of slavery could die!

Participation in the Gospel

Perhaps nowhere in the New Testament is the distinction between law and grace so beautifully portrayed. Both the Roman law and the Old Testament Law gave Philemon the right to punish his runaway slave. But the covenant of grace through Jesus allowed both master and slave to fellowship in love as equals within the body of Christ.

Practical Application

Employers, political leaders, corporation executives, and parents can follow the spirit of Paul's teaching by treating Christian employees, co-workers, and family members as members within Christ's body. Christians in modern-day society must not view workers as stepping stones to help them achieve their personal ambitions but as Christian brothers and sisters who must receive gracious treatment. In addition, all leaders must recognize that God holds them accountable for the treatment of those who work for them, whether the workers are Christians or not - they will answer to God for their actions (Colossians 4:1).

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Rec#mended Reading for Philemon

Sunday Grace Day! Monday Grace Day!

Tuesday A Christian Gentleman Philemon 1:1-7 Wednesday Grace Day!

Thursday A Prisoner’s Plea Philemon 1:8-25 Friday Grace Day!

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for Philemon

O'Brien, Peter T. Colossians, Philemon. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 1982.

Wright, N. T. Colossians and Philemon. TNTC. InterVarsity Press, 1989.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 117

NT Letters Hebrews Jesus is better than all Old Testament people and sacrifices

Author

The certain identity of the author of the Book of Hebrews remains unknown.

Some include it among the apostle Paul's writings, but it is missing Paul's salutation in his other works. Some attribute Luke as its writer; and others even suggest Apollos, Barnabas, Silas, Philip, or Aquila. Regardless of human hand, the Holy Spirit of God is the divine author of all Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16); therefore, Hebrews speaks with the same authority as the other 65 books of the Bible.

Date of Writing

A combination of biblical and historical evidence suggests that the book was written around 65 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

Many Jewish believers were practicing the rites and rituals of Judaism in order to escape persecution. This letter, then, is an exhortation for those persecuted believers to continue in the grace of Jesus Christ.

Key Verses

“Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world.” (Hebrews 1:1-2)

“...how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation?” (Hebrews 2:3a)

“Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:14-16)

“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1)

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:1-2)

Brief Summary

The Book of Hebrews addresses three separate groups:

1) believers in Christ,2) unbelievers who had knowledge of and an intellectual acceptance of the facts of Christ, and 3) unbelievers who were attracted to Christ, but who rejected Him ultimately.

Therefore, it is important to understand which of the three groups is being addressed in which passage; to fail to do so can cause us to draw conclusions inconsistent with the rest of Scripture.

The writer of Hebrews continually makes mention of the superiority of Christ in both His person and work. In the writings of the Old Testament, we understand that Judaism points to the coming of the Messiah. In Hebrews tells us that the rituals of religion pale in comparison to the person, work, and ministry of Jesus. It is the superiority of our Lord Jesus, then, that remains the theme of this beautifully written letter.

Participation in the Gospel

Nowhere in the New Testament does the Old Testament come to life more than in the Book of Hebrews, The writer to the Hebrews constantly compares the imperfect sacrificial system to the perfect Christ. Where the old covenant required sacrifices and a once-a-year atonement for sin offered by a priest, the new covenant provides a once-for-all sacrifice through Christ (Hebrews 10:10) and direct access to the throne of God for all who are in Him.

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Practical Application

In chapter 11, the writer reminds us of those who persevered in spite of great difficulty and circumstances. This “Hall of Faith” provides great evidence as to the unconditional surety and absolute reliability of God. Likewise, we can maintain perfect confidence in God's rich promises, regardless of our circumstances, by meditating upon the rock-solid faithfulness of God's workings in the lives of His Old Testament saints.

The writer of Hebrews gives ample encouragement to believers, but there are 5 warnings we must heed:

1) the danger of neglect (Hebrews 2:1-4)2) the danger of unbelief (Hebrews 3:7-4:13)

3) the danger of spiritual immaturity (Hebrews 5:11-6:20)4) the danger of failing to endure (Hebrews 10:26-39) and

5) the inherent danger of refusing God (Hebrews 12:25-29)

And so we find in this masterpiece a great wealth of doctrine, a refreshing spring of encouragement, and a source of sound, practical warnings against both laziness and slothfulness in our Christian walk. But there is still more, for in Hebrews we find a magnificently rendered portrait of our Lord Jesus Christ -the founder and perfecter of our great salvation (Hebrews 12:2).

Rec#mended Reading for Hebrews

Sunday Christ Superior to the Prophets & Angels Hebrews 1:1-14 Monday Christ Superior to Moses Hebrews 3:1-19

Tuesday Christ Superior to Aaron Hebrews 5:1-14 Wednesday Christ’s Superior Covenants Hebrews 8:1-13

Thursday Christ’s Superior Atonement Hebrews 10:1-25 Friday Christ’s Superior Faith Life Hebrews 11:1-40

Saturday Christ’s Superior Privileges Hebrews 12:1-13:25

Rec#mended Resources for Hebrews

Lane, William L. Vol 47 Hebrews. 2 Vols. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 1991.

Ellingworth, Paul. The Epistle to the Hebrews. NIGTC. Eerdmans, 1993.

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NT Letters James Real faith in Christ is proven by one’s good works

Author

The author of this letter is James, who is thought to be a half-brother of Jesus (Matthew 13:55; Mark 6:3). He was not a believer (John 7:3-5) until after the resurrection (Acts 1:14; 1 Corinthians 15:7; Galatians 1:19). He became a pastor of the Jerusalem church and is mentioned as a pillar of the church (Galatians 2:9).

Date of Writing

The Book of James is likely the oldest book of the New Testament, written perhaps as early as 45 A.D.. James was martyred in approximately 62 A.D., according to the historian Josephus.

Purpose of Writing

Some think that this letter was written in response to an interpretation of Paul’s teaching regarding faith. This extreme view, called antinomianism, held that through faith in Christ one is completely free from all Old Testament law and all legalism, which includes both all secular law and all the morality of a society.

The Book of James is directed to Jewish Christians scattered among all the nations (James 1:1).

Martin Luther hated this letter, but failed to recognize that works complemented - not contradicted - faith. While Paul focused on our justification with God, James focus on our works that come from justification. James was writing to Jews in order to encourage them to continue growing in this new Christian faith. James emphasizes that good works will supernaturally flow from those who are filled with the Spirit and questions whether someone may or may not have a saving faith if the fruits of the Spirit cannot be seen, much as Paul describes in Galatians 5:22-23.

Key Verses

“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” (James 1:2-3)

“Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger...”(James 1:19)

“...faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. But someone will say, ‘You have faith and I have works.’ Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” (James 2:17-18)

“So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire!” (James 3:5)

“The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” (James 5:16b)

Brief Summary

The book is outlined by genuine religion (1:1-27), genuine faith (2:1-3:12), and genuine wisdom (3:13-5:20), and it contains a remarkable parallel to Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, which is found in Matthew 5-7. James describes the overall traits of the faith, discussing social justice with a discourse on faith in action. He then compares and contrasts worldly and godly wisdom, turning from evil and drawing close to God. James gives a particularly severe rebuke to the rich who hoard and those who are reliant on themselves. He ends with encouragement to believers to be patient in suffering, praying and caring for one another, and bolstering our faith through fellowship.

Participation in the Gospel

The Book of James is the ultimate description of the necessary relationship between faith and works. James took his time to explain the truth that no one is justified by the works of the law (Galatians 2:16). He declares to them that even if Christians try their very best to keep all the various laws and rituals, doing so is impossible, and breaking the tiniest part of the law makes us guilty of all of it (James 2:10) because the law is one entity and breaking one part of it is breaking all of it.

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Practical Application

James challenges the faithful followers of Jesus Christ to not just “talk the talk,” but to “walk the walk.” While our walk does require a growth of knowledge about the Word, James exhorts us to not stop there. He focuses on the truths of Jesus’ words in the Sermon on the Mount and motivates us to act upon them!

The letter also puts to rest the idea that one can become a Christian and yet live in sin and bear no fruit. Such a “faith,” James declares, is also shared by the demons who “believe - and shudder” (James 2:19). Such a “faith” cannot save because it is not verified by the works that accompany faith (Ephesians 2:10). Good works are not the root of salvation, but they are the fruit of it!

Rec#mended Reading for James

Sunday Faith Tested James 1:1-21 Monday Faith Lived Out James 1:22-27

Tuesday Faith & Brotherhood James 2:1-13 Wednesday Faith Dead Without Works James 2:14-26

Thursday Faith & Tongue Control James 3:1-18 Friday Faith Rebukes Worldliness James 4:1-17

Saturday Faith in Prayer James 5:1-20

Rec#mended Resources for James

Moo, Douglas J. The Letter of James. PNTC. Eerdmans, 2000.

Davids, Peter. The Epistle of James. NIGTC. Eerdmans, 1982.

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NT Letters 1 Peter Suffering for the sake of Jesus is noble and good

Author

1 Peter 1:1 identifies the author of the Book of 1 Peter as the apostle Peter.

Date of Writing

The Book of 1 Peter was likely written between 60 and 65 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

1 Peter is a letter from Peter to believers who had been scattered throughout the world by persecution. Peter understood persecution. He was beaten, threatened, and jailed for preaching the Word of God. He knew what it took to endure without bitterness or losing hope and to live an obedient life in faith. This knowledge of living hope in Jesus his message and the example of Jesus was the one to follow.

Key Verses

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead...” (1 Peter 1:3)

“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” (1 Peter 2:9)

“He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.” (1 Peter 2:24)

“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.” (1 Peter 5:8-9)

Brief Summary

Although this time of persecution was desperate, Peter reveals that it was actually a time to rejoice. H e says to count it a privilege to suffer for the sake of Christ, just as their Savior had suffered for them. This letter makes reference to Peter’s experiences with Jesus and his sermons from the book of Acts. Peter confirms Satan as the enemy of every Christian but the assurance of Christ's return gives us hope.

Participation in the Gospel

Peter’s familiarity with the Old Testament law and prophets enabled him to explain truths about Jesus:

In 1 Peter 1:16, he quotes Leviticus 11:44: “...be holy, for I am holy.” But he prefaces it by explaining that holiness is not achieved by keeping the law, but by the grace given to all who believe in Christ (1:13).

Further, Peter explains the reference to the “cornerstone” in Isaiah 28:16 and Psalm 118:22 as Christ, who was rejected by the Jews through their disobedience and unbelief.

Other Old Testament references include the sinless Christ (1 Peter 2:22; Isaiah 53:9) and admonitions to holy living through the power of God (1 Peter 3:10-12; Psalm 34:12-16; 1 Peter 5:5; Proverbs 3:34).

Practical Application

The assurance of eternal life is given to all Christians. We identify with Christ by sharing in His suffering. To us that would be to endure insults from those who call us "goodie two shoes" or "holier than thou,” which is so minor compared to what Christ suffered for us on the cross - stand up for what you know and believe is truth and rejoice when the world and Satan aim to hurt you!

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Rec#mended Reading for 1 Peter

Sunday Precious Faith 1 Peter 1:1-12 Monday Precious Blood 1 Peter 1:13-25

Tuesday Precious Cornerstone 1 Peter 2:1-10 Wednesday Precious Savior 1 Peter 2:11-25

Thursday Precious Is a Meek & Quiet Spirit 1 Peter 3:1-22 Friday Precious Suffering of Christ 1 Peter 4:1-19

Saturday Precious Crowns 1 Peter 5:1-14

Rec#mended Resources for 1 Peter

Jobes, Karen H. 1 Peter. BECNT. Baker, 2005.

Michaels, J. Ramsey. 1 Peter. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 1988.

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NT Letters 2 Peter Beware of false teachers within the church

Author

2 Peter 1:1 specifically states that the apostle Peter was the author of 2 Peter.

Date of Writing

The Book of 2 Peter was written toward the end of Peter’s life, at some time between 65 and 68 A.D. Since Peter was martyred in Rome during the reign of Nero, his death must have occurred before 68 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

Peter was alarmed that false teachers were beginning to infiltrate the churches, so he called on Christians to grow and become strong in their faith so that they could detect and combat the spreading apostasy. He strongly stressed the authenticity of the Word of God and the certain return of the Lord Jesus.

Key Verses

“His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.” (2 Peter 1:3-4)

“The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9)

“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.” (2 Peter 3:18)

Brief Summary

Knowing that his time was short (2 Peter 1:13-15) and these churches were facing danger (2 Peter 2:1-3), Peter called them to refresh their memories (2 Peter 1:13) and to stimulate their thinking (2 Peter 3:1-2) so that they would remember his teaching (2 Peter 1:15).

He challenged the believers to become mature in their faith by adding to it specific Christians virtues, thereby becoming effective and productive as a result of their knowledge of Jesus Christ (2 Peter 1:5-9). Peter desired they become strong in their faith to withstand the false teachers that were in the churches. In his denunciation, he described their conduct, their condemnation, and their characteristics (2 Peter 2), and also that they ridiculed the Lord’s Second Coming (2 Peter 3:3-7).

For the Christians, Peter taught that the Second Coming is the incentive for holy living (2 Peter 3:14). After a final warning, Peter again encouraged them to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ. He concluded with a word of praise to his Lord and Savior (2 Peter 3:18).

Participation in the Gospel

When Peter referred to the “word of the prophets” of the Old Testament in 2 Peter 1:19-21, he denounced false prophets and affirmed that the Holy Spirit moved and spoke through true prophets (2 Samuel 23:2). Jeremiah was also forceful in his criticism of false prophets, asking, “How long shall there be lies in the heart of the prophets who prophesy lies, and who prophesy the deceit of their own heart?” (Jeremiah 23:26). The same false teachers who plagued God’s people in both the Old and New Testaments are still with us, making Peter’s second letter as relevant today as it was 2,000 years ago.

Practical Application

As Christians today, we are nearer our Lord’s return than the Christians to whom this letter was written. Fortunately, mature Christians are aware that many impostors are parading as true Christian leaders; unfortunately, immature Christians have been “taken in” by their improper interpretations of Scriptures. Therefore, all Christians must be so grounded in the Word that we are able to discern truth from error.

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The prescription for growth in faith that Peter gave (2 Peter 1:5-11), when applied to our lives, will assure us also a rich reward “into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:10-11). The foundation for our faith is - and always will be - the same Word of God that Peter preached!

Rec#mended Reading for 2 Peter

Sunday Christian Virtues 2 Peter 1:1-14 Monday Christ’s Word Exalted 2 Peter 1:15-21

Tuesday Christless Teachers 2 Peter 2:1-14 Wednesday Christ Against the Backslider 2 Peter 2:15-22

Thursday Christ’s Coming Scoffed 2 Peter 3:1-9 Friday Christ’s Coming Assured 2 Peter 3:10-18

Saturday Christ Our Hope 2 Peter 1:1-3:18

Rec#mended Resources for 2 Peter

Bauckham, Richard J. 2 Peter, Jude. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 1983.

Moo, Douglas J. 2 Peter, Jude. NIVAC. Zondervan, 1997.

Spring Creek Christian Church | 3573 N County Road 450 E | Logansport, IN 46947 | (574) 722-2863 | www.springcreekcc.org | 125

NT Letters 1 John Jesus was real man just as He is real God

Author

1, 2, & 3 John have from earliest times been attributed to the apostle John, who wrote the Gospel of John. The content, style, and vocabulary seem to warrant the conclusion that these three letters were addressed to the same readers as the Gospel of John.

Date of Writing

The Book of 1 John was written between 85-95 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

The Book of 1 John seems to summarize the Gospel of John and offers certainty for our faith in Christ. The first letter indicates that the readers were confronted with the error and false teaching of gnosticism, a religion that held that matter is evil and spirit is good and became a problem in the second-century. In the gospel message, this led to two false theories concerning the person of Christ, Docetism - saying that Jesus was a ghost - and Cerinthianism - saying that He was at times divine, at times human. Finally, 1 John sets boundaries on the content of faith and gives believers assurance of their salvation.

Key Verses

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” l(1 John 1:9)

“No one who abides in him keeps on sinning; no one who keeps on sinning has either seen him or known him.” (1 John 3:6)

“Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4)

“I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life.” (1 John 5:13)

Brief Summary

False teachers were a problem; because there was not a New Testament that believers could refer to, many churches fell prey to pretenders who taught their own ideas and advanced themselves as leaders. John wrote this letter to set the record straight on the identity of Jesus Christ.

Because John's letter was about the basics of faith in Christ, it helped people reflect honestly on faith, to answer the question, “Are we true believers?” John told them they could tell by looking at their actions. If they loved one another, that was evidence of God's presence and the Holy Spirit at work in their lives. But if they bickered and fought all the time or were selfish and did not look out for one another’s needs, they were betraying that they, in fact, did not know God.

That did not mean they had to be perfect. In fact, John also recognized that believing involved confessing our sin and seeking God's forgiveness. Depending on God for cleansing from guilt, along with confessing our sin against God and others and making amends, was another important part of getting to know God.

Participation in the Gospel

One of the most quoted passages regarding sin is found in 1 John 2:16. In this passage, John describes the three aspects of sin that recall the first and most earth-shattering temptations in all of Scripture. The first sin - the disobedience of Adam and Eve - was the result of them yielding to the three temptations as we find in Genesis 3:6:

1) the desires of the flesh (“good for food”)2) the desires of the eyes (“a delight to the eyes”)

3) the pride of life (“desired to make one wise”)

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Practical Application

The Book of 1 John is a book of love and joy. It explains the fellowship we have with others and Jesus. It differentiates between happiness, which is temporary, and true joy, which 1 John tells us how to live in. If we take the words written by John and we apply them to our daily lives, the true love, commitment, fellowship, and joy we long for will be ours.

John knew Christ well. He tells us that we can all have that close, intimate relationship with Him, as well. Many times people think Jesus doesn't concern Himself with our daily struggles, issues, and concerns. But John tells us that Jesus is with us in the simple parts of our lives and in the soul-wrenching parts, too. John testifies as a witness of his personal experiences that God became flesh and lived among people. That means Christ came here to live with us and He still lives with us, walking through each day with us. We must apply this truth to our lives and live as if Jesus were standing right next to us at every moment. If we put this truth into practice, Christ will add holiness to our lives, making us more and more like Him!

Rec#mended Reading for 1 John

Sunday Walking in Fellowship 1 John 1:1-2:14 Monday Grace Day!

Tuesday Walking as Children of God 1 John 2:15-3:24 Wednesday Grace Day!

Thursday Walking in Love 1 John 4:1-21 Friday Grace Day!

Saturday Walking in Knowledge 1 John 5:1-21

Rec#mended Resources for 1 John

Kruse, Colin G. The Letters of John. PNTC. Eerdmans, 2000.

Stott, John R. W. The Letters of John. TNTC. InterVarsity Press, 1988.

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NT Letters 2 John Beware false teachers who deny Jesus’ physical life on earth

Author

1, 2, & 3 John have from earliest times been attributed to the apostle John, who wrote the Gospel of John. The content, style, and vocabulary seem to warrant the conclusion that these three letters were addressed to the same readers as the Gospel of John.

Date of Writing

The Book of 2 John was written between 85-95 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

The Book of 2 John is an urgent plea that the readers of John's letter should show their love for God and His Son Jesus by obeying the commandment to love each other and live in obedience to the Scriptures. The Book of 2 John is also a strong warning to be on the lookout for deceivers who were going about saying that Christ had not actually risen in the flesh.

Key Verses

“And this is love, that we walk according to his commandments; this is the commandment, just as you have heard from the beginning, so that you should walk in it.” (2 John 1:6)

“Watch yourselves, so that you may not lose what we have worked for, but may win a full reward. Everyone who goes on ahead and does not abide in the teaching of Christ, does not have God. Whoever abides in the teaching has both the Father and the Son.” (2 John 1:8-9)

Brief Summary

The Book of 2 John is addressed to "the elect lady and her children" (1:1) - this could either have been a lady of important standing in the church or a metaphor referring to the local church and its members. In those days, when Christians were being persecuted, such metaphor salutations were often used.

John is largely concerned with an urgent warning concerning deceivers who were not teaching the exact doctrine of Christ and who maintained that Jesus did not actually rise in the flesh but only spiritually. John wants true believers to be aware of these false teachers and have nothing to do with them.

Participation in the Gospel

John describes true love not as an emotion or feeling, but as obedience to the commandments of God. Jesus reiterated the importance of the commandments, especially the “great and first commandment,” love for God (Deuteronomy 6:5), and second, love for one another (Matthew 22:37-40; Leviticus 19:18). Far from abolishing the Old Testament law of God, Jesus came to fulfill it in His very person and work!

Practical Application

We must check everything we see, hear, and read that claims to be “Christian” with the truth of Scripture. This cannot be too strongly emphasized for us today, because one of Satan’s greatest weapons is deceit. It is easy to be taken in by a new and exciting doctrine that appears to be based on Scripture, but which, if examined closely, is in fact a departure from the Word of God. If what appears to be happening does not line up with Scripture, then this is false and not of the Spirit, and we should have nothing to do with it.

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Rec#mended Reading for 2 John

Sunday Grace Day! Monday Grace Day!

Tuesday Grace Day! Wednesday Walking in Truth 2 John 1:1-13

Thursday Grace Day! Friday Grace Day!

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for 2 John

Kruse, Colin G. The Letters of John. PNTC. Eerdmans, 2000.

Stott, John R. W. The Letters of John. TNTC. InterVarsity Press, 1988.

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NT Letters 3 John Church leaders must be humble, not proud

Author

1, 2, & 3 John have from earliest times been attributed to the apostle John, who wrote the Gospel of John. The content, style, and vocabulary seem to warrant the conclusion that these three letters were addressed to the same readers as the Gospel of John.

Date of Writing

The Book of 3 John was written between 85-95 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

John’s purpose in writing this third letter is threefold:

1) he writes to commend and encourage his beloved coworker, Gaius, in his ministry of hospitality to the itinerant messengers who were going from place to place to preach the Gospel of Christ

2) he indirectly warns and condemns the behavior of Diotrephes, a dictatorial leader who had taken over one of the churches in the province of Asia, and whose behavior was directly opposed to all that the apostle and his Gospel stood for

3) he commends the example of Demetrius who was reported as having a good testimony from all

Key Verses

“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” (3 John 1:4)

“Beloved, do not imitate evil but imitate good. Whoever does good is from God; whoever does evil has not seen God.” (3 John 1:11)

Brief Summary

John is writing with his usual strong emphasis on truth to this much-loved brother in Christ, Gaius, commending Gaius’ care for his messengers whose mission was to take the Gospel from place to place. John encourages him to continue to to do good and not to imitate evil, as in the example of Diotrephes. This man had taken over the leadership of a church in Asia, and not only had he refused to recognize John's authority as an apostle, but he also failed to receive John’s letters and submit to John’s directions. He also slandered John and excommunicated those who supported and cared for John's messengers. John also commends the example of Demetrius, of whom he has heard excellent reports.

Participation in the Gospel

The concept of offering hospitality to strangers has plenty of precedent throughout the Old Testament. Acts of hospitality in Israel included the humble and gracious reception of foreigners in the home for food, lodging and protection (Genesis 18:2-8, 19:1-8; Job 31:16-23, 31-32). In addition, the Old Testament’s teaching portrays the Israelites as foreigners who are dependent on God’s hospitality (Psalm 39:12) and God as the One who graciously meets their needs, redeeming them from Egypt and feeding and clothing them in the wilderness (Exodus 16; Deuteronomy 8:2-5).

Practical Application

John, as always, emphasizes the importance of walking in the truth of the gospel - hospitality, support, and encouragement for our fellow Christians are some of the main truths of the teachings of Jesus, and Gaius was clearly an outstanding example of this ministry. We should do the same whenever we can, welcoming visiting missionaries, preachers, and strangers (as long as we are sure they are true believers) into our churches and into our homes, and offer them whatever support and encouragement they need.

We also must always follow the example of those whose words and work are in line with the gospel, and to be discerning enough to be aware of those such as Diotrephes, whose behavior is far from being like that which Jesus taught.

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Rec#mended Reading for 3 John

Sunday Grace Day! Monday Grace Day!

Tuesday Grace Day! Wednesday Walking in the Way 3 John 1:1-14

Thursday Grace Day! Friday Grace Day!

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for 3 John

Kruse, Colin G. The Letters of John. PNTC. Eerdmans, 2000.

Stott, John R. W. The Letters of John. TNTC. InterVarsity Press, 1988.

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NT Letters Jude Beware of heretical teachers and their dangerous doctrines

Author

Jude 1:1 identifies the author of the Book of Jude as Jude, a brother of James and half-brother of Jesus. Jude likely does not identify himself as a brother of Jesus out of humility and reverence for Christ.

Date of Writing

The Book of Jude is closely related to the book of 2 Peter and was written between 60 and 80 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

The Book of Jude is an important book for us today because it is written for the end of the church age. The church age began at the Day of Pentecost. Jude is the only book given entirely to the great apostasy. Jude writes that evil works are the evidence of apostasy. He admonishes us to contend for the faith, because there are tares among the wheat. False prophets are in the church and the saints are in danger. Jude is a small but important book worthy of study, written for the Christian of today.

Key Verses

“Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.” (Jude 1:3)

“But you must remember, beloved, the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. They said to you, ‘In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.’ It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit.” (Jude 1:17-19)

“Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.” (Jude 1:24-25)

Brief Summary

According to 1:3, Jude wanted to write about our salvation, but instead he wrote to contend for the faith, which embodies the complete body of Christian doctrine taught by Christ, later passed on to the apostles. After Jude warns of false teachers (1:4-16), he advises us on how to fight in spiritual warfare (1:20-21). Here is wisdom we would do well to accept and adhere to as we go through these days of the end times!

Participation in the Gospel

Jude is filled with references to the Old Testament, including the exodus (1:5); Satan’s rebellion (1:6); Sodom and Gomorrah (1:7); Moses’ death (1:9); Cain (1:11); Balaam (1:11); Korah (1:11); Enoch (1:14-15); and Adam (1:14). Jude’s use of the well-known historical illustrations of Sodom and Gomorrah, Cain, Balaam, and Korah reminded the Jewish Christians of the necessity of true faith and obedience.

Practical Application

We live in a unique time in history and this book can help us with the challenges of living in the end times. We must be on guard for false doctrines which can easily deceive us if we are not well versed in the Word. We need to know the gospel and receive the Lordship of Christ, which is evidenced by a life-change. Authentic faith always reflects Christ-like behavior. Our life in Christ should reflect our very own heart-knowledge that rests on the authority of the Almighty Creator and Father who puts faith into practice. We need a relationship with Him; only then will we know His voice so well that we will follow no other.

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Rec#mended Reading for Jude

Sunday Grace Day! Monday Grace Day!

Tuesday Grace Day! Wednesday Walking Without Falling Jude 1:1-25

Thursday Grace Day! Friday Grace Day!

Saturday Grace Day!

Rec#mended Resources for Jude

Bauckham, Richard J. 2 Peter, Jude. WBC. Thomas Nelson, 1983.

Moo, Douglas J. 2 Peter, Jude. NIVAC. Zondervan, 1997.

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NT Prophecy Revelation God will judge evil and reward His saints

Author

Revelation 1:1, 4, 9 and 22:8 identify the author of the Book of Revelation as the apostle John.

Date of Writing

The Book of Revelation was written between 90 and 95 A.D.

Purpose of Writing

Revelation was given to John by God “to show to his servants the things that must soon take place” (1:1). This book is filled with prophecy. It is the final warning that the world will end and judgment will be certain. It gives us a tiny glimpse of heaven and all of the glories awaiting those who keep their robes white. Revelation takes us through the great tribulation with all its woes that all unbelievers will face for eternity. The book also reiterates the fall of Satan and the doom for which he and his angelic demons are bound. We are shown the duties of all creatures and angels and the promises of the saints that will live forever. Like John, we find it hard to describe what we read in the book of Revelation!

Key Verses

“Write therefore the things that you have seen, those that are and those that are to take place after this.” l(Revelation 1:19)

“Also it causes all, both small and great, both rich and poor, both free and slave, to be marked on the right hand or the forehead, so that no one can buy or sell unless he has the mark, that is, the name of the beast or the number of its name.” (Revelation 13:16-17)

“Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war.” (Revelation 19:11)

“Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. From his presence earth and sky fled away, and no place was found for them.” (Revelation 20:11)

“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more.” (Revelation 21:1)

Brief Summary

The vision reveals the last days before Jesus’ return and the ushering in of the new heaven and new earth. John begins with letters to the seven churches of Asia Minor, then goes on to reveal the series of devastations poured out upon the earth: the mark of the beast (“666”), the climactic battle of Armageddon, the binding of Satan, the reign of the Lord, the Great White Throne Judgment, and the eternal city of God. Prophecies concerning Jesus Christ are fulfilled and His Lordship assures us that He will soon return!

Participation in the Gospel

Revelation is the culmination of the prophecies about the end times, beginning with the Old Testament. For example, the description of the antichrist mentioned in Daniel 9:27 is developed fully in Revelation 13. Outside of Revelation, examples of apocalyptic literature in the Bible are Daniel 7-12, Isaiah 24-27, Ezekiel 37-41, and Zechariah 9-12 - and all these prophecies come together in the Book of Revelation!

Practical Application

Have you received Jesus as your Savior? If so, you have nothing to fear from God’s coming judgment. Before the final judgment, we must witness to friends and neighbors about God’s eternal life in Christ. The events in this book are real, and we must live like we believe it so that others will notice our joy about our future and want to join us in that new and glorious city!

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Rec#mended Reading for Revelation

Sunday Christ & The Churches Revelation 1:1-3:22 Monday Christ’s Throne & The Seven Sealed Book Revelation 4:1-6:17

Tuesday Christ’s Trumpets Sounded Revelation 7:1-9:21 Wednesday Christ & The Woes Revelation 10:1-12:17

Thursday Christ & Antichrist Revelation 13:1-15:8 Friday Christ’s Final Triumph Revelation 16:1-18:24

Saturday Christ the Lord of All Revelation 19:1-22:21

Rec#mended Resources for Revelation

Beale, Gregory K. The Book of Revelation. NIGTC. Eerdmans, 1998.

Mounce, Robert H. The Book of Revelation. NICNT. Eerdmans, 1997.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why should we read and study the Bible?

The Bible is God's Word to us. In fact, the Scriptures are literally "breathed out by God" (2 Timothy 3:16).

There are so many questions that philosophers have asked that God answers for us in Scripture:

What is the purpose to life? Where did I come from? Is there life after death?How do I get to heaven? Why is the world full of evil? Why do I struggle to do good?

In addition to these "big" questions, the Bible gives much practical advice in areas such as:

What do I look for in a spouse? How can I have a successful marriage? How can I be a good friend?How can I be a good parent? What is success and how do I achieve it? How can I change?What really matters in life? How can I live so that I do not look back with regret?How can I handle the unfair circumstances and bad events of life victoriously?

Therefore, we should want to read and study the Bible because it is totally reliable and without error. The Bible is unique among "holy" books in that it does not just give moral teaching and say, "Trust me." Instead, we have the ability to test it by checking the hundreds of detailed prophecies that it makes, by checking the historical accounts it records, and by checking the scientific facts to which it relates. We are given assurance that God's Word is true when it discusses spiritual areas that we cannot test with our senses by showing itself true in those areas that we can test, such as prophetic accuracy, scientific accuracy, and historical accuracy.

We should also read and study the Bible because God does not change and our nature does not change; it is as relevant as it was when it was written - “...there is nothing new under the sun" (Ecclesiastes 1:9). And while we sinful people as a whole continue to seek love and satisfaction in all of the wrong places, God - our good and gracious Creator - tells us what will bring us lasting joy. His revealed Word, the Bible, is so important that Jesus said of it, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4). In other words, if we want to live life to the fullest, as God intended, we must listen to, learn about, and live out God's written Word.

We should read and study the Bible because there are so false teachers and teachings in the world today. The Bible gives us the standard by which we can distinguish truth from error. It tells us what God is like. To have a wrong impression of God is to worship a false god. We are worshiping something that He is not. The Bible tells us how one truly gets to heaven, and it is not by being good or by anything else we do (John 14:6; Ephesians 2:1-10; Isaiah 53:6; Romans 3:10-18, 5:8, 6:23, 10:9-13). Along this same line, God's Word shows us just how much He loves us (Romans 5:6-8; John 3:16). It is in learning this truth that we are drawn to love Him in return (1 John 4:19).

The Bible also equips us to serve God (2 Timothy 3:17; Ephesians 6:17; Hebrews 4:12), helps us know how to be saved from our sin and its ultimate consequence (2 Timothy 3:15), helps us see sin in our lives and helps us get rid of it (Psalm 119:9, 11), gives us guidance in life, making us wiser than our teachers (Psalm 32:8, 119:99; Proverbs 1:6), keeps us from wasting years of our lives on that which does not matter and will not last (Matthew 7:24-27). Ultimately, meditating on God’s Word and obeying its teachings will bring success in life (Joshua 1:8; James 1:25).

Reading and studying the Bible helps us see beyond the attractive “bait” and painful “hook” in temptation, so that we can learn from others’ sinful mistakes rather than making the same sinful mistakes ourselves. Our own experience is a great teacher, but when it comes to learning from sin, it is a terribly hard teacher. It is so much better to learn from others’ sinful mistakes. There are so many Bible people to learn from, some of whom can serve as both positive and negative examples at different seasons in their lives.

The Bible is a book that is not merely for reading. It is a book for studying so that it can be applied. Otherwise, it is like swallowing food and then spitting it back out again - no nutritional value is gained. We can ignore it, but we do so to our own detriment, just as we would if we ignored the law of gravity. The importance of the Bible cannot be overstated. Studying the Bible can be compared to mining for gold. If we make little effort and merely “sift through the pebbles in a stream,” we will only find a little gold dust. But the more we make an effort to really dig in to it, the more reward we will gain for our effort.

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Why should we study the Old Testament?

If you skip the first half of a book; you will have a hard time understanding the whole storyline of the book. In the same way, the New Testament is only completely understood when it is seen as being built upon the foundation of the covenants, events, laws, people, promises, and sacrifices of the Old Testament.

If we only had the New Testament, we would not know why the Jews were looking for a Messiah (Savior). Without the Old Testament, we would not understand why this Messiah coming into the world (Isaiah 53); we would not have been able to identify Jesus as the Messiah in the many prophecies (i.e. Micah 5:2); His manner of death (Psalm 22:1, 7-8, 14-18; 69:21), His resurrection (Psalm 16:10), and many more details of His ministry (Isaiah 9:2; 52:13, etc.).

Without the Old Testament, we would not understand the Jewish customs mentioned in the New Testament or the many perversions the religious leaders had made to God's law as they added their traditions to it. We would not understand why Jesus was filled with righteous anger as He cleansed the temple courtyard. We would not understand the wisdom that Christ used in His many replies to His enemies.

Without the Old Testament we would miss prophecies that could only be true if the Bible is God's word. These prophecies give details about the rise and fall of nations, how they will fall, if they will rise again, which powers would be next to emerge, and what would happen to those kingdoms when they died. These prophecies are so accurate that skeptics charge they had to have been written after the fact.

The Old Testament also contains vast quantities of wisdom that the New Testament does not contain:

How I can be wiser than my teachers? To what will various sins lead?How can I recognize whether I am a fool? How can I inadvertently turn people off without trying?How can I open doors to lasting success? How can I find meaning in life?

Without the Old Testament, we would not understand the promises God will yet fulfill to the Jewish nation. Nor would we see how the end of the Bible ties up the loose ends unraveled in the beginning of the Bible, how God will restore the paradise He originally created this world to be, and how we will enjoy close companionship with Him on a personal basis as in the Garden of Eden.

In summary, the Old Testament sheds light on who God is and what He has done in creation and salvation. It shares so much comfort to those in persecution or trouble. It reveals repeatedly fulfilled prophecies. It contains so much wisdom that goes beyond what is even alluded to or quoted in the New Testament. In short, if you have not yet ventured in depth into its pages, you are missing what God has available. As you read it, there is much you will not understand right away, but there is much you will learn from. And as you continue to study it, ask God to teach you further, and it will pay off one hundred times over!.

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What is the difference between the Old and New Testaments?

If you skip the first half of a book; you will have a hard time understanding the whole storyline of the book. In the same way, the New Testament is only completely understood when it is seen as being built upon the foundation of the covenants, events, laws, people, promises, and sacrifices of the Old Testament.

If we only had the New Testament, we would not know why the Jews were looking for a Messiah (Savior). Without the Old Testament, we would not understand why this Messiah coming into the world (Isaiah 53); we would not have been able to identify Jesus as the Messiah in the many prophecies (i.e. Micah 5:2); His manner of death (Psalm 22:1, 7-8, 14-18; 69:21), His resurrection (Psalm 16:10), and many more details of His ministry (Isaiah 9:2; 52:13, etc.).

Without the Old Testament, we would not understand the Jewish customs mentioned in the New Testament or the many perversions the religious leaders had made to God's law as they added their traditions to it. We would not understand why Jesus was filled with righteous anger as He cleansed the temple courtyard. We would not understand the wisdom that Christ used in His many replies to His enemies.

The four Gospels and Acts record many of the fulfillments of prophecies recorded in the Old Testament. In the circumstances of Jesus' birth, life, miracles, death, and resurrection as found in the four Gospels, we find the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies that relate to the Messiah's first coming to earth. Even the prophecies in the New Testament are built upon earlier prophecies found in Old Testament. These New Testament prophecies relate to events surrounding Jesus Christ’s second coming to earth. It has been said that two of three verses in Revelation are based on or related to Old Testament verses.

Also, the New Testament brings into clear focus teachings that were only alluded to in the Old Testament. The book of Hebrews describes how Jesus is the High Priest and how His sacrifice replaces all others. The Old Testament gives the law, which has two parts: the commandments and the blessings and curses that come from obedience or disobedience to those commands. The New Testament clarifies that God gave those commandments to show the need for salvation; they were never intended to bring salvation (Romans 3:19).

The Old Testament describes the sacrificial system God gave the Israelites to temporarily cover their sins. The New Testament clarifies that this system alluded to the sacrifice of Jesus who brings our salvation (Acts 4:12; Hebrews 10:4-10). The Old Testament saw paradise lost; the New Testament shows how paradise was regained for mankind through the second Adam (Jesus) and how it will one day be restored. The Old Testament declares that man was separated from God through the rebellion of sin (Genesis 3), and the New Testament declares that man can now be restored in his relationship to God (Romans 3-6). The Old Testament predicted the Messiah's life. The four Gospels primarily record the Messiah's life, and the letters interpret His life and how we are to respond to all He is and all He has done.

Without the Old Testament, we would not understand the promises God will yet fulfill to the Jewish nation. Nor would we see how the end of the Bible ties up the loose ends unraveled in the beginning of the Bible, how God will restore the paradise He originally created this world to be, and how we will enjoy close companionship with Him on a personal basis as in the Garden of Eden.

In summary, the Old Testament lays the foundation for the coming of the Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ, who would humbly sacrifice Himself by dying on the cross for the sins of the whole world (1 John 2:2). The New Testament shares the life of Jesus Christ and then looks back on what He did and how we are to respond to His gift of eternal life and live our lives in gratitude for all He has done for us (Romans 12). Both testaments reveal the same holy, merciful, and righteous God who must condemn sin but who desires to bring to Himself sinners through the forgiveness only possible through Jesus’ atoning sacrifice. In both testaments, God reveals Himself to us and how we are to be reconciled to Him through Jesus. In both testaments, we find all we need for eternal life and godly living (2 Timothy 3:15-17).

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What is the proper way to study the Bible?

Interpreting the true meaning of Scripture is one of the most important tasks a believer has in this life. God does not tell us we must read the Bible; we must study it and handle it correctly (2 Timothy 2:15). Studying the Scriptures is hard work. A skimming of Scripture can sometimes yield wrong conclusions. Therefore, it is crucial to understand several principles for determining the correct meaning of Scripture.

First, we must pray and ask the Holy Spirit to impart understanding, for that is one of His functions.

“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.” (John 16:13). Just as the Holy Spirit guided the writing of Scripture, He also guides in the understanding of Scripture. Remember, the Bible is God's Word, and we need to ask Him what it means. If you are a Christian, the author of Scripture (the Holy Spirit) dwells inside you, and He wants you to understand what He wrote.

Second, we must not pull a scripture out of the verses that surround it and take it out of context.

We must always read the surrounding verses and chapters to discern the context of a specific scripture. While all of Scripture comes from God (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:21), God used men to write it down. These men had a theme in mind, a purpose for writing, and a specific issue that they were addressing. We should read the background of the book of the Bible we are studying to find out who wrote the book, to whom it was written, when it was written, and why it was written. We must let the text speak for itself. Sometimes people will assign their own meanings to words in order to get the interpretation they desire.

Third, we must not attempt to be independent in our studying of the Bible.

It is arrogant to think that we cannot gain understanding through the work of others who study Scripture. Jesus Christ, in the giving of the Holy Spirit, has provided people with spiritual gifts in the body of Christ. One of these spiritual gifts is that of preaching and teaching (Ephesians 4:11-12; 1 Corinthians 12:28). These preachers and teachers are given by the Lord to help us to correctly understand and obey Scripture. It is always wise to study the Bible with other believers, helping one another both learn and live the truth!

So, in summary, what is the proper way to study the Bible?

First, through prayer and humility, we must rely on the Holy Spirit to give us understanding.

Second, we must always study Scripture in its context, recognizing that the Bible explains itself.

Third, we must respect the work of Christians, past and present, who have also properly studied Scripture.

Remember, God is the author of the Bible, and He wants us to understand it!

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Where is a good place to start reading the Bible?

For starters, it is important to realize that the Bible is not a book that reads smoothly from cover to cover. Did you know the Bible contains a library of 66 books, written by 40 different authors, over 1500 years, in 3 different languages, on 3 different continents, and it contains no errors or contradictions? Amazing!Martin Luther said that the Bible is the “cradle of Christ” because everything ultimately points to Jesus.

Therefore, it may be helpful to start reading in the Gospels. The Gospel of Mark is quick and fast-paced. Then you may want to go on to the Gospel of John, which reveals the things Jesus said about Himself. Mark tells about what Jesus did, while John tells about what Jesus said and who Jesus was. In John are some of the simplest and clearest passages, but also some of the deepest and most profound passages. Reading the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) will familiarize you with Christ’s life and ministry. Next, read through some Letters (Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, etc.). They teach us how to live our lives in a way that is honoring to God.

When you start reading through the Old Testament, read the book of Genesis first - it records for us how God created the world and how people fell into sin, as well as the impact that fall had on the world. Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy get into all the laws God required the Jews to live by. While you should not avoid these books, you may want to return to them in your Old Testament study. Read Joshua through 2 Chronicles to get a history of Israel. Reading Psalms through Song of Solomon will give you a good feel for Hebrew poetry and wisdom. The prophetic books, Isaiah through Malachi, can be hard to understand as well. Remember, the key to understanding is asking God for wisdom (James 1:5). God is the author of the Bible, and He wants you to understand His Word!

It is important to know that not everyone can be a successful Bible student. Only those with the necessary “qualifications” for studying the Word can do so with God’s blessings:

Are you saved by faith in Jesus Christ? (1 Corinthians 2:14-16)Are you hungering for God’s Word? (1 Peter 2:2)

Are you diligently searching God’s Word? (Acts 17:11)

If you answered “yes,” then you can be sure that God will bless your efforts to know Him and His Word. If you are not sure that you are a Christian - saved by faith in Christ and have the Holy Spirit within you - you will find it impossible to understand the meaning of the words of Scripture. The truths of the Bible are hidden from those who have not come to faith in Christ, but they are eternal life itself to those who believe (1 Corinthians 2:13-14; John 6:63).

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Recommended Resources

For Adults & Students

40 Questions About Interpreting the BibleIn 40 Questions about Interpreting the Bible, New Testament Professor Dr. Robert L. Plummer tackles the major questions that people ask about reading and understanding the Bible.

Questions include: Does the Bible contain error? Were the ancient manuscripts of the Bible transmitted accurately? What is the best English Bible translation? Is the Bible really all about Jesus? Do all the commands of the Bible apply today? Why can't people agree on what the Bible means? How do we interpret historical narrative? How do we interpret the Psalms? What does the Bible tell us about the future? What is the "Theological Interpretation of Scripture"?

A Book You’ll Actually Read on the New TestamentPacked with big truth, this little book on the New Testament can be read in roughly one hour, making it a book you'll actually read. Mark Driscoll, one of America's most influential pastors, answers the nine most common questions about the New Testament -questions about authorship, different translations, trustworthiness of the Scriptures, and more - and gives an overview of the various kinds of New Testament literature. Two appendices include a comprehensive list of further resources and a checklist for reading through the entire New Testament.

A Book You’ll Actually Read on the New Testament is part of a series of inexpensive and accessible books that give clear, biblical answers to difficult theological questions and controversies. Through this series readers will get a solid and simple introduction to the Bible by investing just a little time.

A Book You’ll Actually Read on the Old TestamentPacked with big truth, this little book on the Old Testament can be read in roughly one hour, making it a book you'll actually read. Mark Driscoll, one of America's most influential pastors, answers the nine most common questions about the Old Testament -questions about authorship, what Jesus says about the Old Testament, how the Old Testament books were chosen as Scripture, and more - and gives an overview of the various kinds of Old Testament literature. Two appendices include a comprehensive list of further resources and a checklist for reading through the entire Old Testament.

A Book You’ll Actually Read on the Old Testament is part of a series of inexpensive and accessible books that give clear, biblical answers to difficult theological questions and controversies. Through this series readers will get a solid and simple introduction to the Bible by investing just a little time.

ESV Student Study Bible (Ages 12+)The ESV Student Study Bible is ideally suited for students who are serious about God’s Word - who want to learn more about what the Bible teaches and how the Bible applies to all of life.

With 12,000 clear, concise study notes, the ESV Student Study Bible provides numerous new features - including nearly 900 “Did You Know?” facts, 120 new Bible character profiles, and 15 new topical articles. It also features a new glossary of key terms, more than 80 full-color maps and illustrations, an extensive concordance, and 80,000 cross-references. These and many other features make it the most comprehensive, colorful, and content-rich student Bible available today. Suited to high school and college students, the ESV Student Study Bible is also a versatile resource for anyone engaged in serious study of God’s Word.

Created by an outstanding team of more than 100 evangelical Christian scholars, teachers, and pastors, the ESV Student Study Bible is adapted from the highly acclaimed and best-selling ESV Study Bible. With numerous new features, the ESV Student Study Bible is an invaluable resource. For high school and college students, but equally for all students of the Bible - for everyone who loves to read and learn more about God’s Word.

ESV Study Bible (Ages 18+)The ESV Study Bible was created to help people understand the Bible in a deeper way. Combining the best and most recent evangelical Christian scholarship with the highly regarded ESV text, it is the most comprehensive study Bible ever published.

The ESV Study Bible features more than 2,750 pages of extensive, accessible Bible resources, including completely new notes, full-color maps, illustrations, charts, timelines, and articles created by an outstanding team of 93 evangelical Christian scholars and teachers. In addition to the 757,000 words of the ESV Bible itself, the notes and resources of the ESV Study Bible comprise an additional 1.1 million words of insightful explanation and teaching-equivalent to a 20-volume Bible resource library all contained in one volume.

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How to Read the Bible through the Jesus Lens: A Guide to Christ-Focused Reading of ScriptureMany Christians today experience Bible teaching in isolated, unconnected pieces, receiving little or no guidance into how these pieces form a coherent picture in Christ. How to Read the Bible through the Jesus Lens presents Christ as the central focus of each biblical book and the primary way the Bible relates to contemporary circumstances. Each book of the Bible has an identifiable theme ultimately fulfilled in the person and work of Christ. Williams provides the following for his readers: succinct statement of the theme of every biblical book, an explanation of how that theme finds its focus in Christ, a brief discussion of how the New Testament treats that theme as fulfilled in Christ, suggestions for contemporary implications, Scripture memory electronic flashcards, and a convenient summary chart. An excellent tool for Bible teachers, ministry leaders, and students, How to Read the Bible through the Jesus Lens facilitates other Christian disciplines such as Bible reading, Scripture memory, and evangelism. By demonstrating how each theme relates to living the Christian life, this book promises to be an invaluable guide for reading and understanding the Bible.

How to Read the Bible Book by Book: A Guided TourReading the Bible need not be a haphazard journey through strange and bewildering territory. Like an experienced tour guide, How to Read the Bible Book by Book takes you by the hand and walks you through the Scriptures. For each book of the Bible, the authors start with a quick snapshot, then expand the view to help you better understand its key elements and how it fits into the grand narrative of the Bible. Written by two top evangelical scholars, this survey is designed to get you actually reading the Bible knowledgeably and understanding it accurately. In an engaging, conversational style, Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart take you through a given book of the Bible using their unique, progressive approach: Orienting Data - concise info bytes that form a thumbnail of the book. Overview - a brief panorama that introduces key concepts and themes and important landmarks in the book. Specific Advice for Reading - pointers for accurately understanding the details and message of the book in context with the circumstances surrounding its writing. A Walk Through - The actual section-by-section tour that helps you see both the larger landscape of the book and how its various parts work together to form the whole. Here you are taken by the hand and told, “Look at this!” How to Read the Bible Book by Book can be used as a companion to How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth. It also stands on its own as a reliable guide to reading and understanding the Bible for yourself.

How to Read the Bible for All Its WorthUnderstanding the Bible isn't for the few, the gifted, the scholarly. The Bible is accessible. It's meant to be read and comprehended by everyone from armchair readers to seminary students. A few essential insights into the Bible can clear up a lot of misconceptions and help you grasp the meaning of Scripture and its application to your 21st-century life.

More than half a million people have turned to How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth to inform their reading of the Bible.

Covering everything from translational concerns to different genres of biblical writing, How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth is used all around the world. In clear, simple language, it helps you accurately understand the different parts of the Bible - their meaning for ancient audiences and their implications for you today - so you can uncover the inexhaustible worth that is in God's Word.

How to Study the BibleThe Bible is the Word of life. As such, studying the Bible is crucial to the life and growth of every believer. John MacArthur examines various Scripture passages in the Old and New Testament to answer both the "why" and the "how" questions of Bible study.

How to Study the BibleThis guide provides a brief, concise overview of personal Bible study for the layperson. Long-time Bible teacher Robert West gives insight into the types, tools, and techniques of personal study, offering both practical guidance and encouragement to pursue the command of 2 Timothy 2:15 - “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.” Covering topics such as the inductive method, word studies, commentaries, dictionaries, and concordances, How to Study the Bible also emphasizes the personal benefits of private Bible time.

Know Your Bible: All 66 Books Explained and AppliedKnow Your Bible is a concise, easy-to-understand guide to God's Word-giving you a helpful and memorable overview of all 66 books. For each Know Your Bible provides data on the author and time frame, a ten-word synopsis, a longer (50-100 word) summary, thoughts on what makes the book unique or unusual, a listing of key verses, and a "So What?" section of practical application. It's a fantastic resource for individuals and ministries!

Knowing ScriptureThe Bible is the written Word of God, and it is treasured by many. But it is also an ancient book about people and cultures very different than us. Thus, while we know we should read it, many of us have a hard time understanding the Bible. In Knowing Scripture, R. C. Sproul helps us dig out the meaning of Scripture for ourselves. The author says, "The theme of this book is not how to read the Bible but how to study the Bible." He presents in simple, basic terms a commonsense approach to studying Scripture and gives eleven practical guidelines for biblical interpretation and applying what we learn. With a minimum of technical jargon, Sproul tackles some of the knotty questions regarding differences of interpreting the Bible. Knowing Scripture is a basic book for both beginning Bible readers and experienced students of Scripture.

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The MacArthur Bible CommentaryThe MacArthur Bible Commentary treats every passage of the Old Testament and New Testament phrase-by-phrase, with hundreds of word studies as sidebars throughout.

Understanding the Big Picture of the Bible: A Guide to Reading the Bible WellHow do I get more out of my Bible reading? What was going on during the gap between the Old and New Testaments? How do all the books of the Bible fit together as a whole? This book answers these questions and puts clear, readable Bible study aids at your fingertips. It contains thirteen essays from some of today’s best evangelical scholars, and will help you to: see the big-picture storyline of the Bible, understand the theology of the Old and New Testaments, read the different sections of Scripture effectively, and know what happened between the testaments.In addition to essays on each genre of the Bible, the book addresses the general Greco-Roman world and specific Jewish groups at the time of the New Testament. To aid in putting Bible passages in context, it also includes timelines of the Old and New Testaments and intertestamental events.Useful as both a general overview of the Bible and as a tool for more specific reference and training, this book will help you grow in your understanding of Scripture and your ability to apply the Bible to life.

What the Bible Is All About: Bible HandbookThis is a must-have for pastors, teachers, and all Christians who want to understand God’s great plan of the ages revealed from Genesis to Revelation. Readers will find essential facts and historical background, but more importantly see how every book of the Bible points to Jesus and God’s plan to transform everyone's life through faith in Him.

For Kids

ESV Grow! Bible (Ages 9-12)The ESV Grow! Bible is designed specifically to reach children ages 9-12 for the time between when they use a children’s Bible and a more advanced Bible. Coupling the full ESV text with many helpful features, this is a Bible that young students can call their own.

The ESV Grow! Bible comes with all-new features to help children learn and understand God’s Word. Nearly every other page features a “W Question”, boxes answering the who, what, where, when, or why of a text - basic questions a child might have while reading. Introductions to each Bible book, charts, and maps help young readers understand the themes, characters, and context of Scripture. 45 “Cross Connections” explain how certain Bible passages point to Christ and 90 “4U” sections explain and apply texts to the child’s life. In addition, articles about Jesus and the teachings of the Christian faith help children understand important theological concepts.

Children will find the ESV Grow! Bible full of interesting features and parents will appreciate that their kids can explore the full Bible text themselves. A perfect Bible to transition from the Seek and Find Bible to the Student Study Bible, the ESV Grow! Bible connects young readers with the beauty and majesty of God’s Word.

ESV Seek and Find Bible (Ages 5-9)This full-color children’s Bible combines the complete ESV Bible text with more than 120 new, vibrant illustrations of major Bible stories. Accompanying each full-page illustration is the Bible story itself, clearly and accurately retold for young readers - and for the parents, grandparents, and teachers who read to them. Each story includes a Key Bible Verse to memorize, Additional Readings for discovering more of the story throughout the Bible, and simple Reflection Questions to help children begin to understand and apply God’s Word. Colorful icons make it easy for young readers to see where each story is found in the Bible text and to locate the illustration that goes with it.

In addition, dozens of Bible characters are profiled throughout the pages, and color call-out sections provide illustrated facts about important Bible objects, structures, and places. Each Bible book begins with a child-friendly introduction, highlighting the important characters and themes found in it.

The ESV Seek and Find Bible is the ideal first “real” Bible for pre-readers and young readers, ages 5 to 9, to grow up with. It is also a wonderful resource for parents to use in family Bible reading and for teachers who teach the Bible to young children.

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The Gospel Story Bible: Discovering Jesus in the Old and New TestamentsIt is easy to forget Jesus in the midst of frantic schedules, family squabbles, and conflicting priorities. But the truth is that he is the hero of every story, including these ordinary ones. This is why Marty Machowski puts God's plan of salvation in Christ on continuous display in The Gospel Story Bible. The easy-to-read storybook introduces your family to many captivating people, places, and events from the Bible's Old and New Testaments, showing how each one ultimately points to Jesus. As you share these Bible Stories together, you and your family will meet Jesus and learn a new, life-changing way of recognizing Christ as the hero of every story. Vibrant illustrations by A. E. Macha, child-friendly discussion questions, and Scripture references accompany each narrative to help you lead your family in exploring the Bible. You will be delighted to discover how easily even a young child can understand the original text of a story that he or she has already come to love. Ideal as a storybook for your preschooler, a devotional for your grade school student, a refresher for the adult believer, or an introduction for the new one, The Gospel Story Bible is also a companion to Long Story Short: Ten-Minute Devotions to Draw Your Family to God and the forthcoming Gospel Story Sunday School curriculum.

Long Story Short: Ten-Minute Devotions to Draw Your Family to GodChristian parents know the importance of passing the gospel story on to their children, yet we live in a busy world filled with distractions. Schedules collide, there is homework and yard work and dishes and laundry, the car’s oil should be changed, there are phone calls to make...and before you know it, everyone is getting to bed late again. The Bible can seem like a long story for an active family to read, but when you break it down into short sections, as Marty Machowski does, family devotions are easy to do. Long Story Short will help busy parents share with their children how every story in the Old Testament points forward to God’s story of salvation through Jesus Christ. You won’t find a more important focus for a family devotional than a daily highlighting of the gospel of grace. Clever stories and good moral lessons may entertain and even help children, but the gospel will transform children. The gospel is deep enough to keep the oldest and wisest parents learning and growing all their lives, yet simple enough to transform the heart of the first grader who has just begun to read. Ten minutes a day, five days a week is enough time to pass on the most valuable treasure the world has ever known. Long Story Short, which corresponds to The Gospel Story Bible, is a family devotional program designed to explain God’s plan of salvation through the Old Testament and is suitable for children from preschool through high school.

Old Story New: Ten-Minute Devotions to Draw Your Family to GodOld Story New makes it easy for parents to stay on the life-giving course of sharing the gospel story with their family. This second volume in Marty Machowski's family devotional series continues the gospel story begun in the Old Testament devotional, Long Story Short. Using the same effective ten-minute a day structure, it connects children to living gospel truth through 78 New Testament stories. Simple discussion questions (and answers) for each day's devotion help children understand and connect the story of salvation to their own lives. Old Story New, which corresponds to The Gospel Story Bible, is suitable for children from preschool through high school.

What the Bible Is All About for Kids: Bible HandbookWhat the Bible Is All About for Kids, based on Dr. Henrietta Mears’ classic Bible handbook, is a kid-friendly, visually exciting resource designed to help children and younger students read and understand Scripture’s revelation of God and His great plan of the ages to save the world. Teachers and parents alike will appreciate this resource’s appeal to young believers: What the Bible Is All About for Kids is chock-full of maps, charts, time lines and fun illustrations that will help kids make sense of the Bible’s big picture and see Jesus on every page!

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