Month: May 2023

The Case for Right Division #2

Sunday, May 21, 2023

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV).

Can today’s Scripture deliver someone from absolute stupidity before he or she literally perishes in it? (Yes!)

Indeed, children are easily deceived, believing whatever they read or hear. They have practically no life experience to use as a basis for gauging whether something is right (true) or wrong (false), plausible (possible) or implausible (doubtful). On the other hand, it requires much more effort to convince adults because they, over the course of several years, have acquired a large body of information to which they appeal when evaluating anything new. Adults are certainly not immune to being led astray—many have been and still are deceived—but it is more challenging to influence them than children.

Similarly, a novice in the Bible is most susceptible to error, but rarely is this risk fully appreciated because every Bible user assumes they are exempt from trickery. For example, all church members attend services in their respective groups because they believe their organization is correct. Their denominational hierarchy, boasting “scholarly” graduates from prestigious seminaries and famous Bible colleges, has caused them to believe their education guards them from all mistakes. However, what has been overlooked is the fact the Bible is usually never given preeminence in most “ministry” training. They will quote and read Bible verses occasionally, but their instruction also involves studying world religions, philosophy, church history, statements of faith (belief systems), writings of ecclesiastical leaders (such as the “church fathers”), and so on. Everything is studied with equal attention, since the Bible is seen as “just one of many guides to spirituality.”

If the Scriptures are used at all, they are interpreted in light of everything else already reviewed—foreign definitions are thus carried into the Bible, controversial verses are reworded, vexing passages are dismissed as figurative instead of literal, and so on. That is, the Scriptures are forced to conform to non-Biblical views. Eventually, possession of any Bible at all becomes a curse instead of a blessing. Yet, if we consistently apply today’s Scripture, we become spiritual adults and thus shielded from the blunders that continually incapacitate the professing church….

The Case for Right Division #1

Saturday, May 20, 2023

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV).

Can today’s Scripture deliver someone from absolute stupidity before he or she literally perishes in it? (Yes!)

Many, many years ago, a pastor died of starvation after fasting for an astonishing 51 days. He had written this explanation: “I am seeking the more perfect will of God for my own life and asking God to show me why the signs do not follow my ministry as Jesus said they would.” That was the end of his ministry, and his earthly life too. Dear friends, there is nothing more tragic than when that precious name “Jesus Christ” is attached to utter absurdities such as this!

The Bible canon has been complete for 2,000 years. Once the Apostle Paul finished penning his second epistle to Timothy, the Holy Spirit had written the final portion of the Scriptures. God would not speak again apart from those inspired words. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Timothy 3:16,17). Everything that God expects us to believe is confined to the Holy Bible. It is worthy of our faith, trust, reliance. We do not need to abstain from food—fast—in order to seek or obtain answers from God. All we need to do is open the pages of Scripture, find out what God is doing today, by faith do that, and then we will do the will of God. If we are asking the Lord to “show” us something, and we are doing something other than reading and studying Bible verses, that is an exercise in futility. It will get us nowhere!

Why did the unfortunate aforementioned pastor meet such a dreadful end? Where was his “answer from God” that he sought? How can we avoid this kind of disaster ourselves? What steps can we take to spare the lives of others who might wind up down this same perilous course? Let us search the Scriptures….

A Higher Education: It Is Up to You!

Friday, May 19, 2023

“Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12 KJV).

Seventeen years ago today, I graduated high school. Consequently, we dedicate this devotional to high school students who are nearing graduation.

Are you about to graduate high school? What would God have you do afterward? Go to college? Trade school? Something else? What career should you pursue? If you do plan on education after high school, where should you attend school? These are tough questions, and while God’s Word does not answer them, you can make decisions that conform to sound Bible doctrine—that is God’s will.

In today’s Scripture, Paul encourages downcast Timothy. Timothy was considerably younger than the Apostle Paul. Older people who are teaching false doctrine are intimidating young Timothy: “Tim, you are too young to teach God’s Word. Let us handle it.” Young Timothy conceded, became silent, and allowed the (“older and wiser”) false teachers to continue teaching their damnable heresies (cf. 1 Timothy 1:3-7; 2 Timothy 1:5-8). Paul replied, “Timothy, Speak up! Let no man despise thy youth!”

Christian youth can be just as effectual in their station in life as Christian adults. The lost world is watching us Christians, and we need to be sure that our actions are in accordance with the sound Bible doctrine we claim to believe (lest we be guilty of confusing the already-puzzled unbelievers). Whether “young or old,” our speech, our lifestyle, our acts of love, our determination, our belief in sound Bible doctrine, and our separation from that which God hates, is the way we communicate to the lost world God’s Word and its preeminence in our lives and hearts (today’s Scripture).

Above all, dear graduates, whatever you do post-graduation, “do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, giving thanks to God and the Father by him” (Colossians 3:17). After all, it really is not your life—it is Christ’s life in you (Galatians 2:20; Colossians 3:4), so He alone deserves the glory! 🙂

*Based on a Bible study by the same name, which can be read here. Also, see the study “The Spirit-Filled Student.”

By the way, you may also be interested in reading this archived special-edition study about my own college experience.

The Assyrian #4

Thursday, May 18, 2023

“For through the voice of the LORD shall the Assyrian be beaten down, which smote with a rod” (Isaiah 30:31 KJV).

Who is this “Assyrian?”

Remembering the Pharaoh who kept Israel in bondage and tried his hardest to annihilate the Jewish people (the “Assyrian” in Isaiah 52:4), recalling Sennacherib the King of Assyria who wanted to defeat Jerusalem but failed (2 Kings 19:34-37; 2 Chronicles 32:21,22; Isaiah 37:35-38), we reach the third Assyrian of Isaiah’s colossal Book—the “Assyrian” of today’s Scripture (the Antichrist).

This Assyrian, like ancient Pharaoh, purposes to do whatever is necessary to “cut them off from being a nation; that the name of Israel may be no more in remembrance” (Psalm 83:4). Like Sennacherib, this Assyrian will come against Jerusalem in battle. Re-read Isaiah 30:27-33, Christ’s fiery Second Coming, yet future from us. The LORD’S voice roars from Heaven as He descends through Earth’s atmosphere. A violent storm accompanies Him—fire, hailstones, fierce winds. As Pharoah and Sennacherib were destroyed, so the LORD will kill the Antichrist.

“For I will gather all nations against Jerusalem to battle; and the city shall be taken, and the houses rifled [looted], and the women ravished [assaulted]; and half of the city shall go forth into captivity, and the residue of the people shall not be cut off from the city. Then shall the LORD [Jesus Christ] go forth, and fight against those nations, as when he fought in the day of battle. And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives….” (Zechariah 14:2-4a).

“And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;…” (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9). “And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming:…” (2 Thessalonians 2:8; cf. today’s Scripture).

Christ Jesus returns to free Israel from Satan and sin, ready to rule the Heaven and the Earth from David’s throne forever (see a glimpse in Zechariah 14:9)!

The Assyrian #3

Wednesday, May 17, 2023

“For through the voice of the LORD shall the Assyrian be beaten down, which smote with a rod” (Isaiah 30:31 KJV).

Who is this “Assyrian?”

Another “Assyrian” about which Isaiah the Prophet wrote is King Sennacherib: “Now it came to pass in the fourteenth year of king Hezekiah, that Sennacherib king of Assyria came up against all the defenced cities of Judah, and took them” (Isaiah 36:1). This was approximately 702 B.C., some 20 years after Assyria had already captured Israel’s 10 northern tribes (2 Kings chapter 17). Now, in King Hezekiah’s day, another King of Assyria has come into power, and he seeks to conquer Jerusalem (southern tribes). “And when Hezekiah saw that Sennacherib was come, and that he was purposed to fight against Jerusalem,…” (2 Chronicles 32:1).

Hezekiah advises his people: “Be strong and courageous, be not afraid nor dismayed for the king of Assyria, nor for all the multitude that is with him: for there be more with us than with him: With him is an arm of flesh; but with us is the LORD our God to help us, and to fight our battles. And the people rested themselves upon the words of Hezekiah king of Judah” (2 Chronicles 32:7,8).

Additionally, Hezekiah prays to the LORD to intervene and save Jerusalem from otherwise certain doom (2 Kings 19:15-19; Isaiah 37:15-20). “And for this cause Hezekiah the king, and the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz, prayed and cried to heaven. And the LORD sent an angel, which cut off all the mighty men of valour, and the leaders and captains in the camp of the king of Assyria. So he returned with shame of face to his own land. And when he was come into the house of his god, they that came forth of his own bowels slew him there with the sword. Thus the LORD saved Hezekiah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem from the hand of Sennacherib the king of Assyria, and from the hand of all other, and guided them on every side” (2 Chronicles 32:20-22; cf. 2 Kings 19:32-36; Isaiah 37:33-38).

When Assyrian King Sennacherib and his troops encircled Jerusalem, the LORD defended and spared the city for David’s sake. In today’s Scripture, yet future from us, JEHOVAH God will again deliver Jerusalem from an “Assyrian….”

The Assyrian #2

Tuesday, May 16, 2023

“For through the voice of the LORD shall the Assyrian be beaten down, which smote with a rod” (Isaiah 30:31 KJV).

Who is this “Assyrian?”

In Isaiah chapter 52, verse 4, we read the following comment: “For thus saith the Lord GOD, My people went down aforetime into Egypt to sojourn there; and the Assyrian oppressed them without cause.” Of course, Jacob and his household migrated down into Egypt in Genesis chapter 46 to meet his son Joseph and family. For centuries, the 12 tribes of Israel had a pleasant experience among the Egyptians because Joseph was in the favor of Pharaoh and his successors.

However, there came a turning point in Exodus chapter 1: “[6] And Joseph died, and all his brethren, and all that generation. [7] And the children of Israel were fruitful, and increased abundantly, and multiplied, and waxed exceeding mighty; and the land was filled with them. [8] Now there arose up a new king over Egypt, which knew not Joseph. [9] And he said unto his people, Behold, the people of the children of Israel are more and mightier than we: [10] Come on, let us deal wisely with them; lest they multiply, and it come to pass, that, when there falleth out any war, they join also unto our enemies, and fight against us, and so get them up out of the land. [11] Therefore they did set over them taskmasters to afflict them with their burdens. And they built for Pharaoh treasure cities, Pithom and Raamses. [12] But the more they afflicted them, the more they multiplied and grew. And they were grieved because of the children of Israel.”

Once Joseph and his brethren passed off the scene, a new Pharaoh came into power, and the Israelites were mercilessly persecuted and their male newborn babies were slaughtered (see Exodus 1:15-22). Isaiah 52:4, which we read already, designates this Pharaoh as “the Assyrian.” Moreover, Isaiah knows of another “Assyrian”—and, today’s Scripture, he writes of yet another “Assyrian.” The identity of the Assyrian of today’s Scripture can be better appreciated by looking at the other Assyrians of Isaiah’s massive Book….

The Assyrian #1

Monday, May 15, 2023

“For through the voice of the LORD shall the Assyrian be beaten down, which smote with a rod” (Isaiah 30:31 KJV).

Who is this “Assyrian?”

Read today’s Scripture in context: “[27] Behold, the name of the LORD cometh from far, burning with his anger, and the burden thereof is heavy: his lips are full of indignation, and his tongue as a devouring fire: [28] And his breath, as an overflowing stream, shall reach to the midst of the neck, to sift the nations with the sieve of vanity: and there shall be a bridle in the jaws of the people, causing them to err. [29] Ye shall have a song, as in the night when a holy solemnity is kept; and gladness of heart, as when one goeth with a pipe to come into the mountain of the LORD, to the mighty One of Israel.

“[30] And the LORD shall cause his glorious voice to be heard, and shall shew the lighting down of his arm, with the indignation of his anger, and with the flame of a devouring fire, with scattering, and tempest, and hailstones. [31] For through the voice of the LORD shall the Assyrian be beaten down, which smote with a rod. [32] And in every place where the grounded staff shall pass, which the LORD shall lay upon him, it shall be with tabrets and harps: and in battles of shaking will he fight with it. [33] For Tophet is ordained of old; yea, for the king it is prepared; he hath made it deep and large: the pile thereof is fire and much wood; the breath of the LORD, like a stream of brimstone, doth kindle it.”

By carefully considering these words the Holy Spirit spoke through the Prophet Isaiah, it is clear to us the LORD is sorely displeased. This is a time of intense Divine judgment—yet supreme joyfulness. It is a period of severe tempestuousness—but unparalleled tranquility too. Destruction and salvation have been paired here. Where on the Bible timeline is this blend of contrasting events? Who is this “Assyrian?” Why is the LORD so upset with him? Let us study the Scriptures to ascertain the fascinating answers….

Mother: A Virtuous Woman

Sunday, May 14, 2023

“Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies” (Proverbs 31:10 KJV).

Today is Mother’s Day, so we dedicate this devotional to godly women (specifically mothers). I especially dedicate this to the virtuous woman who has been in my life for almost 35 years… my mom!

Today’s Scripture is the first verse of the Bible’s “Virtuous Woman” passage (Proverbs 31:10-31). King Solomon explained that the virtuous woman:

  • has a husband who safely trusts in her (verses 11,12).
  • is not lazy, but is strong because she works to feed and clothe her family and herself (verses 13-19,21,22,24,25,27).
  • pities the poor and needy (verse 20).
  • has a husband who is well-known because of her godly lifestyle (verse 23).
  • opens her mouth with wisdom, and speaks kindly and lovingly (verse 26).
  • has children and a husband who praise her (verse 28).
  • excels in what she does (verse 29).
  • has works that praise her (verse 31).

Verse 30 explains the virtuous woman is “a woman that feareth the LORD.”

The Apostle Paul wrote that godly women should: not slander/gossip, not be controlled by alcohol and emotions (sober minded), be teachers of good things, love their husbands and children, be cautious and modest, maintain the home, be “good,” and should obey (respect) their husbands… “that the word of God be not blasphemed” (Titus 2:3-5). A Christian woman, especially a mother, should be a virtuous woman in beliefs as well as in deed. She needs to set an example for her children (especially her daughters).

A Christian woman and/or Christian mother places her faith in this sound Bible doctrine, the indwelling Holy Spirit will then take that doctrine and transform her for God’s glory (1 Thessalonians 2:13). Her mind will be renewed by sound Bible doctrine, and that will transform her outward activity (Romans 12:1,2).

Are you a Christian woman or Christian mother who desires to be the woman God intends you to be in Christ Jesus? Place your faith in this sound Bible doctrine, and God will take care of the rest!

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY TO OUR READERS WHO ARE MOTHERS!

*Adapted from a larger Bible study with the same name. The Bible study can be read here or watched here.

Archived: “What does the Bible say about motherhood?”

Natural Affection

Saturday, May 13, 2023

“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life” (Romans 5:8-10 KJV).

Many years ago, a major fire broke out in a house. Soon, firefighters and a news crew had arrived and were setting up their equipment. While a cameraman was recording a reporter doing a live broadcast, a woman cries out hysterically, “My child is still trapped in the building!” She frantically runs off and re-enters the structure, never to come out again, perishing in the flames as she seeks her child! The reporter, aghast, remarks, “Oh, what could make her do such a thing?!”

Defining man’s downward spiral because of sin, Romans 1:31 and 2 Timothy 3:3 list “without natural affection” as one of those resulting evils. “Astorgos” is the Greek word, literally “no affectionate cherishing of kindred.” A mother’s love for her children is rightly called “natural affection.” The same attitude should exist amongst all family members. When we read of children aborted, abandoned in dumpsters or on sidewalks, or neglected or abused, that is an example of “without natural affection” (Romans 1:31 and 2 Timothy 3:3). What prompted that poor mother to run into that fire and die while trying to rescue her child was “natural affection.”

It is in Father God’s nature to be affectionate, loving, kind. No, we cannot fathom it, but He did love us sinners enough to send His perfect Son Jesus Christ to die for us. Like the mother who sacrificed herself to rescue her child, so the Lord offered Himself in our place. We do not need to comprehend or explain it fully, we just need to believe it in our heart, thereby passing from death to life, qualified to be vessels of that very resurrection life of the Lord Jesus Christ, “the Son of God, who loved [us], and gave himself for [us]” (Galatians 2:20).

An Irrefutable Testimony

Friday, May 12, 2023

“For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God; And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come” (1 Thessalonians 1:9,10 KJV).

Behold, the mighty influence of grace teaching and grace living!

A certain Christian missionary in a foreign land once asked a native man to teach him the language. The native outright refused, arguing, “No, I will not teach you my language, because you would make me a Christian.” Countering, the missionary stated, “You misunderstood me. I only want you to teach me your language.” The native answered, “No, I will not teach you. No man can live with you and not become a Christian.”

They may not like the Scriptures or the Lord Jesus Christ, but non-Christians cannot dispute exemplary living. “And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ. Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God” (Philippians 1:9-11). At this point, non-Christians see value in what we believe and do. Again, there is no guarantee they will convert (for they will have to reject the family religion, relatives and friends might disown them, et cetera!), but they will be forced to agree we are not like everyone else. We thus “adorn [beautify, decorate] the doctrine of God our Saviour” (Titus 2:10).

In the words of the Apostle Peter to Israel’s believing remnant: “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation [conduct, manner of living] in Christ. For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing” (1 Peter 3:15-17).