THE THREE LEVELS OF LIFE
(1 Cor 2:12 KJV) Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.(1 Cor 2:13 KJV) Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.(1 Cor 2:14 KJV) But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.(1 Cor 2:15 KJV) But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.(1 Cor 2:16 KJV) For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ. (1 Cor 3:1 KJV) And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ (1 Cor 3:2 KJV) I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able.(1 Cor 3:3 KJV) For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?
1 Corinthians 3: (v. 1-4) The Corinthians reproved for their contentions.(v. 5-9) The true servants of Christ can do nothing without him.(v. 10-15) He is the only foundation, and every one should take heed what he builds thereon.(v. 16,17) The churches of Christ ought to be kept pure, and to be humble.(v. 18-23) And they should not glory in men, because ministers and all things else are theirs through Christ.
The Corinthians reproved for their contentions
1 Cor 3:1: Verses 1-4. The most simple truths of the gospel, as to man's sinfulness and God's mercy, repentance towards God, and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, stated in the plainest language, suit the people better than deeper mysteries. Men may have much doctrinal knowledge, yet be mere beginners in the life of faith and experience. Contentions and quarrels about religion are sad evidences of carnality. True religion makes men peaceable, not contentious. But it is to be lamented, that many who should walk as Christians, live and act too much like other men. Many professors, and preachers also, show themselves to be yet carnal, by vain-glorious strife, eagerness for dispute, and readiness to despise and speak evil of others.
LOWEST LEVEL
The NATURAL MAN unsaved lost in there sins. Dominated by a sinful nature,
UN-SPIRITUAL Anti-God/Christ.
WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS GOD THINKS ABOUT MEN AND WOMAN AT THIS LEVEL
(Gal 4:8 KJV) Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods. (1 John 4:10 KJV) Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. (Rom 3:11 KJV) There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. (2 Tim 3:8 KJV) Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith. (Rom 1:21 KJV) Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.
(John 3:18 KJV) He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. (Rom 1:25 KJV) Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. (2 Th 1:8 KJV) In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: (Rom 5:10 KJV) 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. (1 Cor 1:23 KJV) But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;
READ JOHN 14, 15, 16
HIGHEST LEVEL
A borne again believer thirsty for the word. Has an indwelling of the Holy Spirit and to the best of there ability has surrendered their life to be led by the Holy Spirit. Has totally accepted the Word of God. Daily dies to self-surrendering there will to the Lord Jesus Christ.
MIDDLE LEVEL
Saved and sealed by the Holy Spirit but UNSATISFIED with walking in OBEDIENCE to the word of God, and the leading of the Holy Spirit
(1 Cor 3:2 KJV) I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able.
TOTALLY MISUNDERSTOOD THE CHRISTIAN WALK AND THE AVAILABLE POWER TO ESCAPE LUSTS.
(2 Pet 1:4 KJV) Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
WHY DO CARNAL CHRISTIANS STAY IN THE MIDDLE LEVEL
THEY HAVE NOT SURRENDERED SOMETHING OF WICH THEY ARE IN
A LUSTFUL FLESHLY BONDAGE TO WHICH CAUSES THEM TO LOSE THEIR REWARD IN THIS LIFE AND THE LIFE TO COME
SURRENDER TODAY AND YOU WILL FIND YOUR SELF IMPOWERED IN THE HOLY SPIRIT, WALKING IN THE HOLY SPIRIT DAILY!
I am Called, Predestined, Chosen, before I was conceived in my Mothers womb. To Proclaim the Gospel of the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob Whom I Know Personally Through Faith in The LAMB of God Lord Jesus Christ-The Only Begotten Son Of The I am THAT I AM. Joh 3:3 Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Joh 3:5 Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. Joh 3:7 Ye must be born again.
I miss the Humming Birds I used to talk to at this Raised Bed Garden I Built, and I miss even more when they talked back.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
REDEEMER MESSIA
REDEEMER MESSIA
(Job 19:25 KJV) For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth:
Job 19:25: Vs. 19:25-27 redeemer (Heb., goel). See notes on Ruth 3:9 and Isa. 59:17-21. Job believed in a living God who would vindicate his case even after his death. at the latter day. In the future. upon the earth. Lit., upon dust, referring to the dust of the earth or to the dust of Job's grave. in my flesh. Although the Hebrew preposition, min, sometimes means "without" (in which case Job expected vindication in a disembodied state), when it is used with the verb "to see" it may indicate the vantage point from which a person sees (in which case Job expected to be in a body when he was received in the resurrection). The last phrase of verse 27 is an exclamation something like, "I'm overwhelmed at the thought." This great expression of hope marks the turning point in Job's attitude. He has seen his sufferings in the perspective of certain future vindication of his case. reins = heart.
(Psa 19:14 KJV) Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.
(Psa 78:35 KJV) And they remembered that God was their rock, and the high God their redeemer.
(Prov 23:11 KJV) For their redeemer is mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.
Prov 23:11: Vs. 23:11 redeemer. Lit., near kinsman; i.e., one who will protect the interests of the family. See notes on Lev. 25:25-28 and Ruth 3:9. The term may refer to God. See notes on Gen. 48:15-16; Ex. 6:6; Job 19:25-27. cause with thee. Better, case against you.
(Isa 41:14 KJV) Fear not, thou worm Jacob, and ye men of Israel; I will help thee, saith the LORD, and thy redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.
Isa 41:14: Vs. 41:14-15 Israel is called a worm because she is feeble, despised, and stepped on by the nations of the world. But God will make Israel a sharp threshing instrument, a solid object made of heavy timbers and studded with flint.
(Isa 43:14 KJV) Thus saith the LORD, your redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; For your sake I have sent to Babylon, and have brought down all their nobles, and the Chaldeans, whose cry is in the ships.
Isa 43:14: Vs. 43:14-21 God would destroy Babylon and bring His people back to Palestine, a new thing that, when compared to most other wonders of Israel's history, would make those seem as nothing.
(Isa 44:6 KJV) Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and his redeemer the LORD of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God.
(Isa 44:24 KJV) Thus saith the LORD, thy redeemer, and he that formed thee from the womb, I am the LORD that maketh all things; that stretcheth forth the heavens alone; that spreadeth abroad the earth by myself;
Isa 44:24: Vs. 44:24-28 Only the true God can predict the future with total accuracy--in this case the return from exile to rebuild and inhabit Jerusalem, a prophecy made through Isaiah about 150 years before it happened.
(Isa 47:4 KJV) As for our redeemer, the LORD of hosts is his name, the Holy One of Israel.
(Isa 48:17 KJV) Thus saith the LORD, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go.
(Isa 49:7 KJV) Thus saith the LORD, the Redeemer of Israel, and his Holy One, to him whom man despiseth, to him whom the nation abhorreth, to a servant of rulers, Kings shall see and arise, princes also shall worship, because of the LORD that is faithful, and the Holy One of Israel, and he shall choose thee.
(Isa 49:26 KJV) And I will feed them that oppress thee with their own flesh; and they shall be drunken with their own blood, as with sweet wine: and all flesh shall know that I the LORD am thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob.
(Isa 54:5 KJV) For thy Maker is thine husband; the LORD of hosts is his name; and thy Redeemer the Holy One of Israel; The God of the whole earth shall he be called.
(Isa 54:8 KJV) In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer.
(Isa 59:20 KJV) And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the LORD.
(Isa 60:16 KJV) Thou shalt also suck the milk of the Gentiles, and shalt suck the breast of kings: and thou shalt know that I the LORD am thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob.
(Isa 63:16 KJV) Doubtless thou art our father, though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israel acknowledge us not: thou, O LORD, art our father, our redeemer; thy name is from everlasting.
Isa 63:16: Vs. 63:16 The meaning is this: Even if Abraham and Israel (i.e., Jacob) disowned the people, God would still be their Father.
(Jer 50:34 KJV) Their Redeemer is strong; the LORD of hosts is his name: he shall thoroughly plead their cause, that he may give rest to the land, and disquiet the inhabitants of Babylon.
(Dan 9:25 KJV) Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times.
Dan 9:25: Vs. 9:25 The 70 sevens begin with the commandment to restore and to rebuild Jerusalem, the commandment of Artaxerxes Longimanus given in 445 B.C. (Neh. 2:5). Earlier, Cyrus had authorized the rebuilding of the Temple (in 538; 2 Chron. 36:22-23; Ezra 1:1-4). the street . . . and the wall. The public square and moat were rebuilt by the time the first seven weeks (49 years) were completed.
(Dan 9:26 KJV) And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined.
Dan 9:26: Vs. 9:26 Certain important events were to happen after the 62 weeks (plus the seven weeks, or a total of 69 weeks): the crucifixion of Messiah and the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70 by the Romans who are the people of the prince that shall come. Because these events were to occur after the 69 weeks had run their course and before the seventieth week began, there must be a space of time between the conclusion of the sixty-ninth week and the beginning of the seventieth.
(Job 19:25 KJV) For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth:
Job 19:25: Vs. 19:25-27 redeemer (Heb., goel). See notes on Ruth 3:9 and Isa. 59:17-21. Job believed in a living God who would vindicate his case even after his death. at the latter day. In the future. upon the earth. Lit., upon dust, referring to the dust of the earth or to the dust of Job's grave. in my flesh. Although the Hebrew preposition, min, sometimes means "without" (in which case Job expected vindication in a disembodied state), when it is used with the verb "to see" it may indicate the vantage point from which a person sees (in which case Job expected to be in a body when he was received in the resurrection). The last phrase of verse 27 is an exclamation something like, "I'm overwhelmed at the thought." This great expression of hope marks the turning point in Job's attitude. He has seen his sufferings in the perspective of certain future vindication of his case. reins = heart.
(Psa 19:14 KJV) Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.
(Psa 78:35 KJV) And they remembered that God was their rock, and the high God their redeemer.
(Prov 23:11 KJV) For their redeemer is mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.
Prov 23:11: Vs. 23:11 redeemer. Lit., near kinsman; i.e., one who will protect the interests of the family. See notes on Lev. 25:25-28 and Ruth 3:9. The term may refer to God. See notes on Gen. 48:15-16; Ex. 6:6; Job 19:25-27. cause with thee. Better, case against you.
(Isa 41:14 KJV) Fear not, thou worm Jacob, and ye men of Israel; I will help thee, saith the LORD, and thy redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.
Isa 41:14: Vs. 41:14-15 Israel is called a worm because she is feeble, despised, and stepped on by the nations of the world. But God will make Israel a sharp threshing instrument, a solid object made of heavy timbers and studded with flint.
(Isa 43:14 KJV) Thus saith the LORD, your redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; For your sake I have sent to Babylon, and have brought down all their nobles, and the Chaldeans, whose cry is in the ships.
Isa 43:14: Vs. 43:14-21 God would destroy Babylon and bring His people back to Palestine, a new thing that, when compared to most other wonders of Israel's history, would make those seem as nothing.
(Isa 44:6 KJV) Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and his redeemer the LORD of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God.
(Isa 44:24 KJV) Thus saith the LORD, thy redeemer, and he that formed thee from the womb, I am the LORD that maketh all things; that stretcheth forth the heavens alone; that spreadeth abroad the earth by myself;
Isa 44:24: Vs. 44:24-28 Only the true God can predict the future with total accuracy--in this case the return from exile to rebuild and inhabit Jerusalem, a prophecy made through Isaiah about 150 years before it happened.
(Isa 47:4 KJV) As for our redeemer, the LORD of hosts is his name, the Holy One of Israel.
(Isa 48:17 KJV) Thus saith the LORD, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go.
(Isa 49:7 KJV) Thus saith the LORD, the Redeemer of Israel, and his Holy One, to him whom man despiseth, to him whom the nation abhorreth, to a servant of rulers, Kings shall see and arise, princes also shall worship, because of the LORD that is faithful, and the Holy One of Israel, and he shall choose thee.
(Isa 49:26 KJV) And I will feed them that oppress thee with their own flesh; and they shall be drunken with their own blood, as with sweet wine: and all flesh shall know that I the LORD am thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob.
(Isa 54:5 KJV) For thy Maker is thine husband; the LORD of hosts is his name; and thy Redeemer the Holy One of Israel; The God of the whole earth shall he be called.
(Isa 54:8 KJV) In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer.
(Isa 59:20 KJV) And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the LORD.
(Isa 60:16 KJV) Thou shalt also suck the milk of the Gentiles, and shalt suck the breast of kings: and thou shalt know that I the LORD am thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob.
(Isa 63:16 KJV) Doubtless thou art our father, though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israel acknowledge us not: thou, O LORD, art our father, our redeemer; thy name is from everlasting.
Isa 63:16: Vs. 63:16 The meaning is this: Even if Abraham and Israel (i.e., Jacob) disowned the people, God would still be their Father.
(Jer 50:34 KJV) Their Redeemer is strong; the LORD of hosts is his name: he shall thoroughly plead their cause, that he may give rest to the land, and disquiet the inhabitants of Babylon.
(Dan 9:25 KJV) Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times.
Dan 9:25: Vs. 9:25 The 70 sevens begin with the commandment to restore and to rebuild Jerusalem, the commandment of Artaxerxes Longimanus given in 445 B.C. (Neh. 2:5). Earlier, Cyrus had authorized the rebuilding of the Temple (in 538; 2 Chron. 36:22-23; Ezra 1:1-4). the street . . . and the wall. The public square and moat were rebuilt by the time the first seven weeks (49 years) were completed.
(Dan 9:26 KJV) And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined.
Dan 9:26: Vs. 9:26 Certain important events were to happen after the 62 weeks (plus the seven weeks, or a total of 69 weeks): the crucifixion of Messiah and the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70 by the Romans who are the people of the prince that shall come. Because these events were to occur after the 69 weeks had run their course and before the seventieth week began, there must be a space of time between the conclusion of the sixty-ninth week and the beginning of the seventieth.
READINGS OF THE UNCTION PRAYER
READINGS OF THE UNCTION PRAYER
------------------------------
+ FIRST PRAYER +
(James 5:10-20)
My brethren, take the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an
example of suffering and patience. Indeed we count them blessed who endure.
You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the
Lord-- that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful. But above all, my
brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other
oath. But let your Yes, be Yes, and your No, No, lest you fall into judgment.
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him
sing psalms. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the
church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the
Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him
up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Confess your
trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed.
The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. Elijah was a
man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain;
and it did not rain on the land for three years and six months. And he prayed
again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth produced its fruit. Brethren,
if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone turns back, let him
know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul
from death and cover a multitude of sins. Do not love the world, nor the
things which are in the world. The world shall pass away and all its desires;
but he who does the will of God shall abide forever. Amen.
PSALM
Stand with the fear of God, Listen to the Holy Gospel. From the psalms of our
father David the prophet and the king, may his blessing, be with us
all. Amen.
(Psalm 6:1-2) O LORD, do not rebuke me in Your anger, nor chasten me in Your
hot displeasure. Have mercy on me, O LORD, for I am weak; O LORD, heal me, for
my bones are troubled. Alleluia.
GOSPEL (John 5:1-17)
Blessed is He Who comes in the Name of the Lord, Our Lord, God, Savior, and
King of us all, Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, to Whom is glory,
forever.
After this there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. Now
there is in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate a pool, which is called in Hebrew,
Bethesda, having five porches. In these lay a great multitude of sick people,
blind, lame, paralyzed, waiting for the moving of the water. For an angel
went down at a certain time into the pool and stirred up the water; then
whoever stepped in first, after the stirring of the water, was made well of
whatever disease he had. Now a certain man was there who had an infirmity
thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he already
had been in that condition a long time, He said to him, Do you want to be made
well? The sick man answered Him, Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool
when the water is stirred up; but while I am coming, another steps down before
me. Jesus said to him, Rise, take up your bed and walk. And immediately the
man was made well, took up his bed, and walked. And that day was the Sabbath.
The Jews therefore said to him who was cured, It is the Sabbath; it is not
lawful for you to carry your bed. He answered them, He who made me well said
to me, Take up your bed and walk. Then they asked him, Who is the Man who said
to you, Take up your bed and walk? And he who was healed knew not who it was;
for Jesus had conveyed himself away, a multitude being in that place. 14
Afterward Jesus found him in the temple, and said to him, See, you have been
made well. Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you. The man departed
and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had made him well. For this reason
the Jews persecuted Jesus, and sought to kill Him, because He had done these
things on the Sabbath. But Jesus answered them, My Father has been working
until now, and I have been working. Glory is due to our God to the age of all
ages. Amen.
(Zoxa si kerie)
+ SECOND PRAYER +
PAULINE (Romans 15:1-7)
Paul, the servant of our Lord Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, appointed
to the Gospel of God. A chapter from the Epistle of our teacher St. Paul to
the (Romans), His blessings be upon us, Amen.
We then who are strong ought to bear with the scruples of the weak, and not to
please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to
edification. For even Christ did not please Himself; but as it is written,
""The reproaches of those who reproached You fell on Me.'' For whatever
things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the
patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope. Now may the God of
patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according
to Christ Jesus, that you may with one mind and one mouth glorify the God and
Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore receive one another, just as
Christ also received us, to the glory of God. The grace of God the Father be
with you all. Amen.
PSALM
Stand with the fear of God, Listen to the Holy Gospel. From the psalms of our
father David the prophet and the king, may his blessing, be with us
all. Amen.
(Psalm 102:1) Hear my prayer, O LORD, and let my cry come to You. Incline
Your ear to me; in the day that I call, answer me speedily. Alleluia.
GOSPEL (Luke 19:1-10)
Blessed is He Who comes in the Name of the Lord, Our Lord, God, Savior, and
King of us all, Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, to Whom is glory,
forever.
Then Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. Now behold, there was a man
named Zacchaeus who was a chief tax collector, and he was rich. And he sought
to see who Jesus was, but could not because of the crowd, for he was of short
stature. So he ran ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see Him, for
He was going to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up
and saw him, and said to him, ""Zacchaeus, make haste and come down, for today
I must stay at your house.'' So he made haste and came down, and received Him
joyfully. But when they saw it, they all complained, saying, ""He has gone to
be a guest with a man who is a sinner.'' Then Zacchaeus stood and said to the
Lord, ""Look, Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor; and if I have taken
anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore fourfold.'' And Jesus
said to him, ""Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is a
son of Abraham; ""for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which
was lost.'' Glory is due to our God to the age of all ages. Amen.
(Zoxa si kerie)
+ THIRD PRAYER +
PAULINE (1-Corinthians 12:28 - 13:8)
Paul, the servant of our Lord Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, appointed
to the Gospel of God. A chapter from the Epistle of our teacher St. Paul to
the (Corinthians), His blessings be upon us, Amen.
And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets,
third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps,
administrations, varieties of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets?
Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? Do all have gifts of healings?
Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? But earnestly desire the best
gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way. Though I speak with the
tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass
or a clanging cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand
all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could
remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my
goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not
love, it profits me nothing. Love suffers long and is kind; love does not
envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely,
does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in
iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things,
hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. But whether there are
prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease;
whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. The grace of God the Father
be with you all. Amen.
PSALM
Stand with the fear of God, Listen to the Holy Gospel. From the psalms of our
father David the prophet and the king, may his blessing, be with us
all. Amen.
(Psalms 38:1-2) O LORD, do not rebuke me in Your wrath, nor chasten me in Your
hot displeasure! For Your arrows pierce me deeply, and Your hand presses me
down. Alleluia.
GOSPEL (Matthew 10:1-8)
Blessed is He Who comes in the Name of the Lord, Our Lord, God,
Savior, and King of us all, Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, to
Whom is glory, forever.
And when He had called His twelve disciples to Him, He gave them power over
unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all
kinds of disease. Now the names of the twelve apostles are these: first,
Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee,
and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax
collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was
Thaddaeus; Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed Him.
These twelve Jesus sent out and commanded them, saying: Do not go into the way
of the Gentiles, and do not enter a city of the Samaritans. But go rather to
the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7 And as you go, preach, saying, The
kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the
dead, cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give. Glory is due to
our God to the age of all ages. Amen.
(Zoxa si kerie)
+ FOURTH PRAYER +
PAULINE (Romans 8:14-28)
Paul, the servant of our Lord Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, appointed
to the Gospel of God. A chapter from the Epistle of our teacher St. Paul to
the (Romans), His blessings be upon us, Amen.
For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you
did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the
Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ""Abba, Father.'' The Spirit Himself
bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children,
then heirs-- heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer
with Him, that we may also be glorified together. For I consider that the
sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory
which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creation
eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was
subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in
hope; because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of
corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that
the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now. Not
only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we
ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the
redemption of our body. For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen
is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? But if we hope for
what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance. Likewise the
Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray
for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with
groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what
the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints
according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for
good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His
purpose. The grace of God the Father be with you all. Amen.
PSALM
Stand with the fear of God, Listen to the Holy Gospel. From the psalms of our
father David the prophet and the king, may his blessing, be with us
all. Amen.
(Psalms 51:1-2) Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness;
according to the multitude of Your tender mercies, blot out my
transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my
sin. Alleluia.
GOSPEL (Luke 10:1-9)
Blessed is He Who comes in the Name of the Lord, Our Lord, God, Savior, and
King of us all, Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, to Whom is glory,
forever.
After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent them two
by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to
go. Then He said to them, The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are
few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His
harvest. Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs among wolves. Carry
neither money bag, knapsack, nor sandals; and greet no one along the road.
But whatever house you enter, first say, Peace to this house. And if a son of
peace is there, your peace will rest on it; if not, it will return to you.
And remain in the same house, eating and drinking such things as they give,
for the laborer is worthy of his wages. Do not go from house to house.
Whatever city you enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set
before you. And heal the sick there, and say to them, The kingdom of God has
come near to you. Glory is due to our God to the age of all ages. Amen.
(Zoxa si kerie)
+ FIFTH PRAYER +
PAULINE (Galathians 2:16-20)
Paul, the servant of our Lord Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, appointed
to the Gospel of God. A chapter from the Epistle of our teacher St. Paul to
the (Galatians), His blessings be upon us, Amen.
knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in
Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be
justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works
of the law no flesh shall be justified. But if, while we seek to be justified
by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is Christ therefore a minister
of sin? Certainly not! For if I build again those things which I destroyed,
I make myself a transgressor. For I through the law died to the law that I
might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who
live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I
live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. The
grace of God the Father be with you all. Amen.
PSALM
Stand with the fear of God, Listen to the Holy Gospel. From the psalms of our
father David the prophet and the king, may his blessing, be with us
all. Amen.
(Psalms 142:7) Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise Your name; the
righteous shall surround me, for You shall deal bountifully with me.''
Alleluia.
GOSPEL (John 14:1-19)
Blessed is He Who comes in the Name of the Lord, Our Lord, God, Savior, and
King of us all, Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, to Whom is glory,
forever.
Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My
Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I
go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I
will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be
also. And where I go you know, and the way you know.'' Thomas said to Him,
Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way? Jesus
said to him, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father
except through Me. If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also;
and from now on you know Him and have seen Him.'' Philip said to Him, Lord,
show us the Father, and it is sufficient for us. Jesus said to him, Have I
been with you so long, and yet you have not known Me, Philip? He who has seen
Me has seen the Father; so how can you say, Show us the Father'? Do you not
believe that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak
to you I do not speak on My own authority; but the Father who dwells in Me
does the works. Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me, or
else believe Me for the sake of the works themselves. Most assuredly, I say
to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and
greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father. And whatever
you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the
Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it. If you love Me, keep My
commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another
Helper, that He may abide with you forever-- the Spirit of truth, whom the
world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know
Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. I will not leave you orphans;
I will come to you. A little while longer and the world will see Me no more,
but you will see Me. Because I live, you will live also. Glory is due to our
God to the age of all ages. Amen.
(Zoxa si kerie)
+ SIXTH PRAYER +
PAULINE (Colossians 3:12-17)
Paul, the servant of our Lord Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, appointed
to the Gospel of God. A chapter from the Epistle of our teacher St. Paul to
the (Colossians), His blessings be upon us, Amen.
Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies,
kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and
forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as
Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on
love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your
hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the
word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one
another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your
hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name
of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. The grace of
God the Father be with you all. Amen.
PSALM
Stand with the fear of God, Listen to the Holy Gospel. From the psalms of our
father David the prophet and the king, may his blessing, be with us
all. Amen.
(Psalms 4:1) Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have relieved
me in my distress; have mercy on me, and hear my prayer. Alleluia.
GOSPEL (Luke 7:36-50)
Blessed is He Who comes in the Name of the Lord, Our Lord, God, Savior, and
King of us all, Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, to Whom is glory,
forever.
Then one of the Pharisees asked Him to eat with him. And He went to the
Pharisee's house, and sat down to eat. And behold, a woman in the city who
was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at the table in the Pharisee's
house, brought an alabaster flask of fragrant oil, and stood at His feet
behind Him weeping; and she began to wash His feet with her tears, and wiped
them with the hair of her head; and she kissed His feet and anointed them with
the fragrant oil. Now when the Pharisee who had invited Him saw this, he
spoke to himself, saying, This man, if He were a prophet, would know who and
what manner of woman this is who is touching Him, for she is a sinner. And
Jesus answered and said to him, Simon, I have something to say to you. And he
said, Teacher, say it. There was a certain creditor who had two debtors. One
owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. And when they had nothing
with which to repay, he freely forgave them both. Tell Me, therefore, which of
them will love him more? Simon answered and said, I suppose the one whom he
forgave more. And He said to him, You have rightly judged. Then He turned to
the woman and said to Simon, Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you
gave Me no water for My feet, but she has washed My feet with her tears and
wiped them with the hair of her head. You gave Me no kiss, but this woman has
not ceased to kiss My feet since the time I came in. You did not anoint My
head with oil, but this woman has anointed My feet with fragrant oil.
Therefore I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved
much. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little. And He said to
her, Your sins are forgiven. And those who sat at the table with Him began to
say to themselves, Who is this who even forgives sins? Then He said to the
woman, ""Your faith has saved you. Go in peace. Glory is due to our God to
the age of all ages. Amen.
(Zoxa si kerie)
+ SEVENTH PRAYER +
PAULINE (Ephesians 6:10-18)
Paul, the servant of our Lord Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, appointed
to the Gospel of God. A chapter from the Epistle of our teacher St. Paul to
the (Ephesians), His blessings be upon us, Amen.
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.
Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles
of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against
principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this
age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore
take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil
day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist
with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod
your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the
shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of
the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the
Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and
supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance
and supplication for all the saints. The grace of God the Father be with you
all. Amen.
PSALM
Stand with the fear of God, Listen to the Holy Gospel. From the
psalms of our father David the prophet and the king, may his
blessing, be with us all. Amen.
(Psalms 25:18) Look on my affliction and my pain, and forgive all my sins.
(Psalms 25:20) Keep my soul, and deliver me; let me not be ashamed, for I put
my trust in You. Alleluia.
GOSPEL (Matthew 6:14-18)
Blessed is He Who comes in the Name of the Lord, Our Lord, God, Savior, and
King of us all, Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, to Whom is glory,
forever.
For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also
forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will
your Father forgive your trespasses. Moreover, when you fast, do not be like
the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that
they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their
reward. But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that
you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the
secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. Glory
is due to our God to the age of all ages. Amen.
------------------------------
+ FIRST PRAYER +
(James 5:10-20)
My brethren, take the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an
example of suffering and patience. Indeed we count them blessed who endure.
You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the
Lord-- that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful. But above all, my
brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other
oath. But let your Yes, be Yes, and your No, No, lest you fall into judgment.
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him
sing psalms. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the
church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the
Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him
up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Confess your
trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed.
The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. Elijah was a
man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain;
and it did not rain on the land for three years and six months. And he prayed
again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth produced its fruit. Brethren,
if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone turns back, let him
know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul
from death and cover a multitude of sins. Do not love the world, nor the
things which are in the world. The world shall pass away and all its desires;
but he who does the will of God shall abide forever. Amen.
PSALM
Stand with the fear of God, Listen to the Holy Gospel. From the psalms of our
father David the prophet and the king, may his blessing, be with us
all. Amen.
(Psalm 6:1-2) O LORD, do not rebuke me in Your anger, nor chasten me in Your
hot displeasure. Have mercy on me, O LORD, for I am weak; O LORD, heal me, for
my bones are troubled. Alleluia.
GOSPEL (John 5:1-17)
Blessed is He Who comes in the Name of the Lord, Our Lord, God, Savior, and
King of us all, Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, to Whom is glory,
forever.
After this there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. Now
there is in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate a pool, which is called in Hebrew,
Bethesda, having five porches. In these lay a great multitude of sick people,
blind, lame, paralyzed, waiting for the moving of the water. For an angel
went down at a certain time into the pool and stirred up the water; then
whoever stepped in first, after the stirring of the water, was made well of
whatever disease he had. Now a certain man was there who had an infirmity
thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he already
had been in that condition a long time, He said to him, Do you want to be made
well? The sick man answered Him, Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool
when the water is stirred up; but while I am coming, another steps down before
me. Jesus said to him, Rise, take up your bed and walk. And immediately the
man was made well, took up his bed, and walked. And that day was the Sabbath.
The Jews therefore said to him who was cured, It is the Sabbath; it is not
lawful for you to carry your bed. He answered them, He who made me well said
to me, Take up your bed and walk. Then they asked him, Who is the Man who said
to you, Take up your bed and walk? And he who was healed knew not who it was;
for Jesus had conveyed himself away, a multitude being in that place. 14
Afterward Jesus found him in the temple, and said to him, See, you have been
made well. Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you. The man departed
and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had made him well. For this reason
the Jews persecuted Jesus, and sought to kill Him, because He had done these
things on the Sabbath. But Jesus answered them, My Father has been working
until now, and I have been working. Glory is due to our God to the age of all
ages. Amen.
(Zoxa si kerie)
+ SECOND PRAYER +
PAULINE (Romans 15:1-7)
Paul, the servant of our Lord Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, appointed
to the Gospel of God. A chapter from the Epistle of our teacher St. Paul to
the (Romans), His blessings be upon us, Amen.
We then who are strong ought to bear with the scruples of the weak, and not to
please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to
edification. For even Christ did not please Himself; but as it is written,
""The reproaches of those who reproached You fell on Me.'' For whatever
things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the
patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope. Now may the God of
patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according
to Christ Jesus, that you may with one mind and one mouth glorify the God and
Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore receive one another, just as
Christ also received us, to the glory of God. The grace of God the Father be
with you all. Amen.
PSALM
Stand with the fear of God, Listen to the Holy Gospel. From the psalms of our
father David the prophet and the king, may his blessing, be with us
all. Amen.
(Psalm 102:1) Hear my prayer, O LORD, and let my cry come to You. Incline
Your ear to me; in the day that I call, answer me speedily. Alleluia.
GOSPEL (Luke 19:1-10)
Blessed is He Who comes in the Name of the Lord, Our Lord, God, Savior, and
King of us all, Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, to Whom is glory,
forever.
Then Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. Now behold, there was a man
named Zacchaeus who was a chief tax collector, and he was rich. And he sought
to see who Jesus was, but could not because of the crowd, for he was of short
stature. So he ran ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see Him, for
He was going to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up
and saw him, and said to him, ""Zacchaeus, make haste and come down, for today
I must stay at your house.'' So he made haste and came down, and received Him
joyfully. But when they saw it, they all complained, saying, ""He has gone to
be a guest with a man who is a sinner.'' Then Zacchaeus stood and said to the
Lord, ""Look, Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor; and if I have taken
anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore fourfold.'' And Jesus
said to him, ""Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is a
son of Abraham; ""for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which
was lost.'' Glory is due to our God to the age of all ages. Amen.
(Zoxa si kerie)
+ THIRD PRAYER +
PAULINE (1-Corinthians 12:28 - 13:8)
Paul, the servant of our Lord Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, appointed
to the Gospel of God. A chapter from the Epistle of our teacher St. Paul to
the (Corinthians), His blessings be upon us, Amen.
And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets,
third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps,
administrations, varieties of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets?
Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? Do all have gifts of healings?
Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? But earnestly desire the best
gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way. Though I speak with the
tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass
or a clanging cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand
all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could
remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my
goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not
love, it profits me nothing. Love suffers long and is kind; love does not
envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely,
does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in
iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things,
hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. But whether there are
prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease;
whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. The grace of God the Father
be with you all. Amen.
PSALM
Stand with the fear of God, Listen to the Holy Gospel. From the psalms of our
father David the prophet and the king, may his blessing, be with us
all. Amen.
(Psalms 38:1-2) O LORD, do not rebuke me in Your wrath, nor chasten me in Your
hot displeasure! For Your arrows pierce me deeply, and Your hand presses me
down. Alleluia.
GOSPEL (Matthew 10:1-8)
Blessed is He Who comes in the Name of the Lord, Our Lord, God,
Savior, and King of us all, Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, to
Whom is glory, forever.
And when He had called His twelve disciples to Him, He gave them power over
unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all
kinds of disease. Now the names of the twelve apostles are these: first,
Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee,
and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax
collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was
Thaddaeus; Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed Him.
These twelve Jesus sent out and commanded them, saying: Do not go into the way
of the Gentiles, and do not enter a city of the Samaritans. But go rather to
the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7 And as you go, preach, saying, The
kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the
dead, cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give. Glory is due to
our God to the age of all ages. Amen.
(Zoxa si kerie)
+ FOURTH PRAYER +
PAULINE (Romans 8:14-28)
Paul, the servant of our Lord Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, appointed
to the Gospel of God. A chapter from the Epistle of our teacher St. Paul to
the (Romans), His blessings be upon us, Amen.
For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you
did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the
Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ""Abba, Father.'' The Spirit Himself
bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children,
then heirs-- heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer
with Him, that we may also be glorified together. For I consider that the
sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory
which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creation
eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was
subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in
hope; because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of
corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that
the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now. Not
only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we
ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the
redemption of our body. For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen
is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? But if we hope for
what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance. Likewise the
Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray
for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with
groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what
the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints
according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for
good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His
purpose. The grace of God the Father be with you all. Amen.
PSALM
Stand with the fear of God, Listen to the Holy Gospel. From the psalms of our
father David the prophet and the king, may his blessing, be with us
all. Amen.
(Psalms 51:1-2) Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness;
according to the multitude of Your tender mercies, blot out my
transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my
sin. Alleluia.
GOSPEL (Luke 10:1-9)
Blessed is He Who comes in the Name of the Lord, Our Lord, God, Savior, and
King of us all, Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, to Whom is glory,
forever.
After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent them two
by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to
go. Then He said to them, The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are
few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His
harvest. Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs among wolves. Carry
neither money bag, knapsack, nor sandals; and greet no one along the road.
But whatever house you enter, first say, Peace to this house. And if a son of
peace is there, your peace will rest on it; if not, it will return to you.
And remain in the same house, eating and drinking such things as they give,
for the laborer is worthy of his wages. Do not go from house to house.
Whatever city you enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set
before you. And heal the sick there, and say to them, The kingdom of God has
come near to you. Glory is due to our God to the age of all ages. Amen.
(Zoxa si kerie)
+ FIFTH PRAYER +
PAULINE (Galathians 2:16-20)
Paul, the servant of our Lord Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, appointed
to the Gospel of God. A chapter from the Epistle of our teacher St. Paul to
the (Galatians), His blessings be upon us, Amen.
knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in
Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be
justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works
of the law no flesh shall be justified. But if, while we seek to be justified
by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is Christ therefore a minister
of sin? Certainly not! For if I build again those things which I destroyed,
I make myself a transgressor. For I through the law died to the law that I
might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who
live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I
live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. The
grace of God the Father be with you all. Amen.
PSALM
Stand with the fear of God, Listen to the Holy Gospel. From the psalms of our
father David the prophet and the king, may his blessing, be with us
all. Amen.
(Psalms 142:7) Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise Your name; the
righteous shall surround me, for You shall deal bountifully with me.''
Alleluia.
GOSPEL (John 14:1-19)
Blessed is He Who comes in the Name of the Lord, Our Lord, God, Savior, and
King of us all, Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, to Whom is glory,
forever.
Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My
Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I
go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I
will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be
also. And where I go you know, and the way you know.'' Thomas said to Him,
Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way? Jesus
said to him, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father
except through Me. If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also;
and from now on you know Him and have seen Him.'' Philip said to Him, Lord,
show us the Father, and it is sufficient for us. Jesus said to him, Have I
been with you so long, and yet you have not known Me, Philip? He who has seen
Me has seen the Father; so how can you say, Show us the Father'? Do you not
believe that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak
to you I do not speak on My own authority; but the Father who dwells in Me
does the works. Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me, or
else believe Me for the sake of the works themselves. Most assuredly, I say
to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and
greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father. And whatever
you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the
Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it. If you love Me, keep My
commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another
Helper, that He may abide with you forever-- the Spirit of truth, whom the
world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know
Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. I will not leave you orphans;
I will come to you. A little while longer and the world will see Me no more,
but you will see Me. Because I live, you will live also. Glory is due to our
God to the age of all ages. Amen.
(Zoxa si kerie)
+ SIXTH PRAYER +
PAULINE (Colossians 3:12-17)
Paul, the servant of our Lord Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, appointed
to the Gospel of God. A chapter from the Epistle of our teacher St. Paul to
the (Colossians), His blessings be upon us, Amen.
Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies,
kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and
forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as
Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on
love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your
hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the
word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one
another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your
hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name
of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. The grace of
God the Father be with you all. Amen.
PSALM
Stand with the fear of God, Listen to the Holy Gospel. From the psalms of our
father David the prophet and the king, may his blessing, be with us
all. Amen.
(Psalms 4:1) Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have relieved
me in my distress; have mercy on me, and hear my prayer. Alleluia.
GOSPEL (Luke 7:36-50)
Blessed is He Who comes in the Name of the Lord, Our Lord, God, Savior, and
King of us all, Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, to Whom is glory,
forever.
Then one of the Pharisees asked Him to eat with him. And He went to the
Pharisee's house, and sat down to eat. And behold, a woman in the city who
was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at the table in the Pharisee's
house, brought an alabaster flask of fragrant oil, and stood at His feet
behind Him weeping; and she began to wash His feet with her tears, and wiped
them with the hair of her head; and she kissed His feet and anointed them with
the fragrant oil. Now when the Pharisee who had invited Him saw this, he
spoke to himself, saying, This man, if He were a prophet, would know who and
what manner of woman this is who is touching Him, for she is a sinner. And
Jesus answered and said to him, Simon, I have something to say to you. And he
said, Teacher, say it. There was a certain creditor who had two debtors. One
owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. And when they had nothing
with which to repay, he freely forgave them both. Tell Me, therefore, which of
them will love him more? Simon answered and said, I suppose the one whom he
forgave more. And He said to him, You have rightly judged. Then He turned to
the woman and said to Simon, Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you
gave Me no water for My feet, but she has washed My feet with her tears and
wiped them with the hair of her head. You gave Me no kiss, but this woman has
not ceased to kiss My feet since the time I came in. You did not anoint My
head with oil, but this woman has anointed My feet with fragrant oil.
Therefore I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved
much. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little. And He said to
her, Your sins are forgiven. And those who sat at the table with Him began to
say to themselves, Who is this who even forgives sins? Then He said to the
woman, ""Your faith has saved you. Go in peace. Glory is due to our God to
the age of all ages. Amen.
(Zoxa si kerie)
+ SEVENTH PRAYER +
PAULINE (Ephesians 6:10-18)
Paul, the servant of our Lord Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, appointed
to the Gospel of God. A chapter from the Epistle of our teacher St. Paul to
the (Ephesians), His blessings be upon us, Amen.
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.
Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles
of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against
principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this
age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore
take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil
day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist
with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod
your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the
shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of
the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the
Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and
supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance
and supplication for all the saints. The grace of God the Father be with you
all. Amen.
PSALM
Stand with the fear of God, Listen to the Holy Gospel. From the
psalms of our father David the prophet and the king, may his
blessing, be with us all. Amen.
(Psalms 25:18) Look on my affliction and my pain, and forgive all my sins.
(Psalms 25:20) Keep my soul, and deliver me; let me not be ashamed, for I put
my trust in You. Alleluia.
GOSPEL (Matthew 6:14-18)
Blessed is He Who comes in the Name of the Lord, Our Lord, God, Savior, and
King of us all, Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, to Whom is glory,
forever.
For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also
forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will
your Father forgive your trespasses. Moreover, when you fast, do not be like
the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that
they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their
reward. But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that
you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the
secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. Glory
is due to our God to the age of all ages. Amen.
OVERCOMING A POVERTY MENTALITY
OVERCOMING A POVERTY MENTALITY
(Prov 10:22 NIV) The blessing of the LORD brings wealth, and he adds no trouble to it.(Prov 10:23 NIV) A fool finds pleasure in evil conduct, but a man of understanding delights in wisdom.
(Prov 10:22 KJV) The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it. (Prov 10:23 KJV) It is as sport to a fool to do mischief: but a man of understanding hath wisdom.
Prov 10:22: Vs. 10:22 Real prosperity is a divine blessing, accompanied by neither anxiety nor trouble. Prov 10:23: Vs. 10:23 mischief. Wickedness. but a man of understanding hath wisdom. Better, and so is wisdom to a man of understanding.
(Prov 11:24 KJV) There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty.
Prov 11:24: Vs. 11:24 meet. Right; i.e., what he should give.
(Prov 11:24 NIV) One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.
(Prov 13:22 KJV) A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.
Prov 13:22: Vs. 13:22 just = righteous. Good men leave their wealth to their grandchildren, but sinners lose it to more righteous persons.
(Prov 13:22 NIV) A good man leaves an inheritance for his children's children, but a sinner's wealth is stored up for the righteous.
(Prov 22:29 KJV) Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.
Prov 22:29: Vs. 22:29 mean men. Obscure men.
Prov 22:29 Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings; he will not serve before obscure men.
(Psa 68:19 NIV) Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens. Selah
(Psa 68:19 KJV) Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah.
Psa 68:19: Vs. 68:19 loadeth us with benefits. Better, bears our burdens.
(Psa 84:11 NIV) For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.
(Psa 84:11 KJV) For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.
(Psa 112:1 KJV) Praise ye the LORD. Blessed is the man that feareth the LORD, that delighteth greatly in his commandments.
Psa 112:1: Ch. 112 An acrostic like the preceding psalm, this one contrasts the blessings of the righteous (vv. 1-9) and the judgment on the wicked (v. 10). Vs. 112:1 Here the fear of the Lord is related to obeying God's commands, which brings freedom from all other fears (vv. 7-8).
(Psa 112:2 KJV) His seed shall be mighty upon earth: the generation of the upright shall be blessed.
(Psa 112:3 KJV) Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his righteousness endureth for ever.
Psalms 112: The blessedness of the righteous.
(Psa 112:1 NIV) Praise the LORD. Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who finds great delight in his commands.
Psa 112:1: We have to praise the Lord that there are a people in the world, who fear him and serve him, and that they are a happy people; which is owing entirely to his grace. Their fear is not that which love casts out, but that which love brings in. It follows and flows from love. It is a fear to offend. This is both fear and trust. The heart touched by the Spirit of God, as the needle touched with the loadstone, turns direct and speedily to God, yet still with trembling, being filled with this holy fear. Blessings are laid up for the faithful and their children's children; and true riches are bestowed on them, with as much of this world's possessions as is profitable for them. In the darkest hours of affliction and trial, the light of hope and peace will spring up within them, and seasonable relief shall turn mourning into joy. From their Lord's example they learn to be kind and full of compassion, as well as just in all their dealings; they use discretion, that they may be liberal in that manner which appears most likely to do good. Envy and slander may for a time hide their true characters here, but they shall be had in everlasting remembrance. They need not fear evil tidings. A good man shall have a settled spirit. And it is the endeavour of true believers to keep their minds stayed upon God, and so to keep them calm and undisturbed; and God has promised them both cause to do so, and grace to do so. Trusting in the Lord is the best and surest way of establishing the heart. The heart of man cannot fix any where with satisfaction, but in the truth of God, and there it finds firm footing. And those whose hearts are established by faith, will patiently wait till they gain their point. Compare all this with the vexation of sinners. The happiness of the saints is the envy of the wicked. The desire of the wicked shall perish; their desire was wholly to the world and the flesh, therefore when these perish, their joy is gone. But the blessings of the gospel are spiritual and eternal, and are conferred upon the members of the Christian church, through Christ their Head, who is the Pattern of all righteousness, and the Giver of all grace.
(Psa 112:2 NIV) His children will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed.
(Psa 112:3 NIV) Wealth and riches are in his house, and his righteousness endures forever.
1 Samuel: In this book we have an account of Eli, and the wickedness of his sons; also of Samuel, his character and actions. Then of the advancement of Saul to be the king of Israel, and his ill behaviour, until his death made way for David's succession to the throne, who was an eminent type of Christ. David's patience, modesty, constancy, persecution by open enemies and feigned friends, are a pattern and example to the church, and to every member of it. Many things in this book encourage the faith, hope, and patience of the suffering believer. It contains also many useful cautions and awful warnings.
(1 Sam 1:1 NIV) There was a certain man from Ramathaim, a Zuphite from the hill country of Ephraim, whose name was Elkanah son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of Tohu, the son of Zuph, an Ephraimite.
1 Sam 1:1: Verses 1-8. Elkanah kept up his attendance at God's altar, notwithstanding the unhappy differences in his family. If the devotions of a family prevail not to put an end to its divisions, yet let not the divisions put a stop to the devotions. To abate our just love to any relation for the sake of any infirmity which they cannot help, and which is their affliction, is to make God's providence quarrel with his precept, and very unkindly to add affliction to the afflicted. It is evidence of a base disposition, to delight in grieving those who are of a sorrowful spirit, and in putting those out of humour who are apt to fret and be uneasy. We ought to bear one another's burdens, not add to them. Hannah could not bear the provocation. Those who are of a fretful spirit, and are apt to lay provocations too much to heart, are enemies to themselves, and strip themselves of many comforts both of life and godliness. We ought to notice comforts, to keep us from grieving for crosses. We should look at that which is for us, as well as what is against us.
(1 Sam 1:2 NIV) He had two wives; one was called Hannah and the other Peninnah. Peninnah had children, but Hannah had none.
(1 Sam 1:3 NIV) Year after year this man went up from his town to worship and sacrifice to the LORD Almighty at Shiloh, where Hophni and Phinehas, the two sons of Eli, were priests of the LORD.
(1 Sam 1:4 NIV) Whenever the day came for Elkanah to sacrifice, he would give portions of the meat to his wife Peninnah and to all her sons and daughters.
(1 Sam 1:5 NIV) But to Hannah he gave a double portion because he loved her, and the LORD had closed her womb.
(1 Sam 1:6 NIV) And because the LORD had closed her womb, her rival kept provoking her in order to irritate her.
(1 Sam 1:7 NIV) This went on year after year. Whenever Hannah went up to the house of the LORD, her rival provoked her till she wept and would not eat.
(1 Sam 1:8 NIV) Elkanah her husband would say to her, "Hannah, why are you weeping? Why don't you eat? Why are you downhearted? Don't I mean more to you than ten sons?"
Hannah's prayer
(1 Sam 1:9 NIV) Once when they had finished eating and drinking in Shiloh, Hannah stood up. Now Eli the priest was sitting on a chair by the doorpost of the Lord's temple.
1 Sam 1:9: Verses 9-18. Hannah mingled tears with her prayers; she considered the mercy of our God, who knows the troubled soul. God gives us leave, in prayer, not only to ask good things in general, but to mention that special good thing we most need and desire. She spoke softly, none could hear her. Hereby she testified her belief of God's knowledge of the heart and its desires. Eli was high priest, and judge in Israel. It ill becomes us to be rash and hasty in censures of others, and to think people guilty of bad things while the matter is doubtful and unproved. Hannah did not retort the charge, and upbraid Eli with the wicked conduct of his own sons. When we are at any time unjustly censured, we have need to set a double watch before the door of our lips, that we do not return censure for censure. Hannah thought it enough to clear herself, and so must we. Eli was willing to acknowledge his mistake. Hannah went away with satisfaction of mind. She had herself by prayer committed her case to God, and Eli had prayed for her. Prayer is heart's ease to a gracious soul. Prayer will smooth the countenance; it should do so. None will long remain miserable, who use aright the privilege of going to the mercy-seat of a reconciled God in Christ Jesus.
(1 Sam 1:10 NIV) In bitterness of soul Hannah wept much and prayed to the LORD.
(1 Sam 1:11 NIV) And she made a vow, saying, "O LORD Almighty, if you will only look upon your servant's misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the LORD for all the days of his life, and no razor will ever be used on his head."
(1 Sam 1:12 NIV) As she kept on praying to the LORD, Eli observed her mouth.
(1 Sam 1:13 NIV) Hannah was praying in her heart, and her lips were moving but her voice was not heard. Eli thought she was drunk
(1 Sam 1:14 NIV) and said to her, "How long will you keep on getting drunk? Get rid of your wine."
(1 Sam 1:15 NIV) "Not so, my lord," Hannah replied, "I am a woman who is deeply troubled. I have not been drinking wine or beer; I was pouring out my soul to the LORD.
(1 Sam 1:16 NIV) Do not take your servant for a wicked woman; I have been praying here out of my great anguish and grief."
(1 Sam 1:17 NIV) Eli answered, "Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of him."
(1 Sam 1:18 NIV) She said, "May your servant find favor in your eyes." Then she went her way and ate something, and her face was no longer downcast.
Samuel, Hannah presents him to the Lord
(1 Sam 1:19 NIV) Early the next morning they arose and worshiped before the LORD and then went back to their home at Ramah. Elkanah lay with Hannah his wife, and the LORD remembered her.
1 Sam 1:19: Verses 19-28. Elkanah and his family had a journey before them, and a family of children to take with them, yet they would not move till they had worshipped God together. Prayer and provender do not hinder a journey. When men are in such haste to set out upon journeys, or to engage in business, that they have not time to worship God, they are likely to proceed without his presence and blessing. Hannah, though she felt a warm regard for the courts of God's house, begged to stay at home. God will have mercy, and not sacrifice. Those who are detained from public ordinances, by the nursing and tending of little children, may take comfort from this instance, and believe, that if they do that duty in a right spirit, God will graciously accept them therein. Hannah presented her child to the Lord with a grateful acknowledgment of his goodness in answer to prayer. Whatever we give to God, it is what we have first asked and received from him. All our gifts to him were first his gifts to us. The child Samuel early showed true piety. Little children should be taught to worship God when very young. Their parents should teach them in it, bring them to it, and put them on doing it as well as they can; God will graciously accept them, and will teach them to do better.
(1 Sam 1:20 NIV) So in the course of time Hannah conceived and gave birth to a son. She named him Samuel, saying, "Because I asked the LORD for him."
(1 Sam 1:21 NIV) When the man Elkanah went up with all his family to offer the annual sacrifice to the LORD and to fulfill his vow,
(1 Sam 1:22 NIV) Hannah did not go. She said to her husband, "After the boy is weaned, I will take him and present him before the LORD, and he will live there always."
(1 Sam 1:23 NIV) "Do what seems best to you," Elkanah her husband told her. "Stay here until you have weaned him; only may the LORD make good his word." So the woman stayed at home and nursed her son until she had weaned him.
(1 Sam 1:24 NIV) After he was weaned, she took the boy with her, young as he was, along with a three-year-old bull, an ephah of flour and a skin of wine, and brought him to the house of the LORD at Shiloh.
(1 Sam 1:25 NIV) When they had slaughtered the bull, they brought the boy to Eli,
(1 Sam 1:26 NIV) and she said to him, "As surely as you live, my lord, I am the woman who stood here beside you praying to the LORD.
(1 Sam 1:27 NIV) I prayed for this child, and the LORD has granted me what I asked of him.
(1 Sam 1:28 NIV) So now I give him to the LORD. For his whole life he will be given over to the LORD." And he worshiped the LORD there.
1 Samuel: 1 SAMUEL
DATE: 930 B.C. and later
Authors Though the two books of Samuel are named for the key figure of the early chapters, Samuel could not have written more than part of 1 Samuel, since his death is recorded in chap. 25. That he did in fact write a book is attested to in 1 Samuel 10:25. First Chronicles 29:29 indicates that Nathan and Gad also wrote about the events recorded in Samuel.
Historical Background Samuel emerged as the last judge in the 350-year span of the judges. The book covers a period of about 115 years, from the childhood of Samuel to the beginning of the reign of King David. Appearing on the scene during one of the darkest periods of Israel's history, Samuel called the people to a revival of the true worship of Yahweh (the LORD; Acts 3:24). He was also a kingmaker, anointing both Saul (10:1) and David (16:13). Thus 1 Samuel forms the link between the judges and the monarchy.
Contents First Samuel focuses on three principal characters: Samuel, Saul, and David. (Second Samuel centers exclusively on David.) The principal lesson of the book has to do with the effects of sin and holiness in relation to the people and their leaders. Well-known stories in the book include that of David and Goliath (chap. 17), David and Jonathan (chap. 18), and Saul and the witch of En-dor (chap. 28).
(1 Sam 1:1 KJV) Now there was a certain man of Ramathaimzophim, of mount Ephraim, and his name was Elkanah, the son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of Tohu, the son of Zuph, an Ephrathite:
1 Sam 1:1: TIMELINE OF 1 SAMUEL (see chart).
Vs. 1:1 Ramathaim-zophim. Lit., the heights of the Zuphite. A longer name for Ramah (1:19), a city in the hill country of Ephraim, five mi (eight km) N of Jerusalem. Although Elkanah was an Ephraimite by residence, he was a Levite by birth through the Kohathites who were allotted towns in Ephraim (1 Chron. 6:33-36).
(1 Sam 1:2 KJV) And he had two wives; the name of the one was Hannah, and the name of the other Peninnah: and Peninnah had children, but Hannah had no children.
1 Sam 1:2: Vs. 1:2 Though at variance with God's ideal for marriage (Gen. 2:24), polygamy was allowed in the case of a childless first marriage (cf. Deut. 21:15-17) and of a levirate marriage (Deut. 25:5-10), but the practice often caused great misery (cf. vv. 6-7).
(1 Sam 1:3 KJV) And this man went up out of his city yearly to worship and to sacrifice unto the LORD of hosts in Shiloh. And the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, the priests of the LORD, were there.
1 Sam 1:3: Vs. 1:3 Yearly. Three times a year male Israelites were required to appear at the central sanctuary--at the festivals of Unleavened Bread, Pentecost, and Tabernacles. See Ex. 23:14-17 and its note. Which festival this was is not said. LORD of hosts. A military figure, referring to God as the One who commands the angelic armies of heaven (1 Kings 22:19; Luke 2:13; Rev. 19:14) and the armies of Israel (1 Sam. 17:45). The term emphasizes the sovereignty and omnipotence of God. Shiloh. The location of the Tabernacle (Josh. 18:1) and the religious center of the nation until the loss of the ark (1 Sam. 4). It was 20 mi (32 km) N of Jerusalem.
(1 Sam 1:4 KJV) And when the time was that Elkanah offered, he gave to Peninnah his wife, and to all her sons and her daughters, portions:
(1 Sam 1:5 KJV) But unto Hannah he gave a worthy portion; for he loved Hannah: but the LORD had shut up her womb.
1 Sam 1:5: Vs. 1:5 worthy portion. Better, double portion.
(1 Sam 1:6 KJV) And her adversary also provoked her sore, for to make her fret, because the LORD had shut up her womb.
1 Sam 1:6: Vs. 1:6 adversary. Better, rival. sore = greatly. fret. Lit., thunder; i.e., irritated.
(1 Sam 1:7 KJV) And as he did so year by year, when she went up to the house of the LORD, so she provoked her; therefore she wept, and did not eat.
(1 Sam 1:8 KJV) Then said Elkanah her husband to her, Hannah, why weepest thou? and why eatest thou not? and why is thy heart grieved? am not I better to thee than ten sons?
1 Sam 1:8: Vs. 1:8 Elkanah considered his love and care for her a greater blessing than a large family!
b Her supplication, 1:9-18
(1 Sam 1:9 KJV) So Hannah rose up after they had eaten in Shiloh, and after they had drunk. Now Eli the priest sat upon a seat by a post of the temple of the LORD.
1 Sam 1:9: Vs. 1:9 temple. I.e., the Tabernacle and additional quarters (3:2-3).
(1 Sam 1:10 KJV) And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the LORD, and wept sore.
(1 Sam 1:11 KJV) And she vowed a vow, and said, O LORD of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the LORD all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head.
1 Sam 1:11: Vs. 1:11 Hannah vowed that if she were given a son, he would be dedicated to lifelong levitical service (cf. Num. 4:2-3) and become a lifelong Nazarite. See note on Num. 6:1-8.
(1 Sam 1:12 KJV) And it came to pass, as she continued praying before the LORD, that Eli marked her mouth.
(1 Sam 1:13 KJV) Now Hannah, she spake in her heart; only her lips moved, but her voice was not heard: therefore Eli thought she had been drunken.
1 Sam 1:13: Vs. 1:13 Apparently drunkenness was not uncommon even at the Tabernacle and by women.
(1 Sam 1:14 KJV) And Eli said unto her, How long wilt thou be drunken? put away thy wine from thee.
(1 Sam 1:15 KJV) And Hannah answered and said, No, my lord, I am a woman of a sorrowful spirit: I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but have poured out my soul before the LORD.
1 Sam 1:15: Vs. 1:15 The outpouring of one's soul before God is an excellent description of fervent prayer (cf. Phil. 4:6-7; 1 Peter 5:7).
1 Sam 1:16 KJV) Count not thine handmaid for a daughter of Belial: for out of the abundance of my complaint and grief have I spoken hitherto.
1 Sam 1:16: Vs. 1:16 a daughter of Belial = a worthless woman.
(1 Sam 1:17 KJV) Then Eli answered and said, Go in peace: and the God of Israel grant thee thy petition that thou hast asked of him.
(1 Sam 1:18 KJV) And she said, Let thine handmaid find grace in thy sight. So the woman went her way, and did eat, and her countenance was no more sad.
c Her son, 1:19-23
(1 Sam 1:19 KJV) And they rose up in the morning early, and worshipped before the LORD, and returned, and came to their house to Ramah: and Elkanah knew Hannah his wife; and the LORD remembered her.
1 Sam 1:19: Vs. 1:19 knew. Often, as here, a euphemism for sexual relations.
(1 Sam 1:20 KJV) Wherefore it came to pass, when the time was come about after Hannah had conceived, that she bare a son, and called his name Samuel, saying, Because I have asked him of the LORD.
1 Sam 1:20: Vs. 1:20 Samuel means "name of God" and serves as a continual reminder of God's mercy toward those who call upon His name.
(1 Sam 1:21 KJV) And the man Elkanah, and all his house, went up to offer unto the LORD the yearly sacrifice, and his vow.
(1 Sam 1:22 KJV) But Hannah went not up; for she said unto her husband, I will not go up until the child be weaned, and then I will bring him, that he may appear before the LORD, and there abide for ever.
1 Sam 1:22: Vs. 1:22 weaned. Hebrew children were normally weaned at two to three years (cf. 2 Macc. 7:27).
(1 Sam 1:23 KJV) And Elkanah her husband said unto her, Do what seemeth thee good; tarry until thou have weaned him; only the LORD establish his word. So the woman abode, and gave her son suck until she weaned him.
1 Sam 1:23: Vs. 1:23 gave her son suck. Nursed. d Her sacrifice, 1:24-28
(1 Sam 1:24 KJV) And when she had weaned him, she took him up with her, with three bullocks, and one ephah of flour, and a bottle of wine, and brought him unto the house of the LORD in Shiloh: and the child was young.
1 Sam 1:24: Vs. 1:24 ephah = three-fifths of a bushel (20 qt, or 22 lit). bottle. I.e., wineskin or jug.
(1 Sam 1:25 KJV) And they slew a bullock, and brought the child to Eli.
(1 Sam 1:26 KJV) And she said, Oh my lord, as thy soul liveth, my lord, I am the woman that stood by thee here, praying unto the LORD.
(1 Sam 1:27 KJV) For this child I prayed; and the LORD hath given me my petition which I asked of him:
(1 Sam 1:28 KJV) Therefore also I have lent him to the LORD; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the LORD. And he worshipped the LORD there.
1 Sam 1:28: Vs. 1:28 lent him. Lit., made him over. The idea is that of a complete and irrevocable giving up of the child to the Lord. Hannah was careful to pay the vow even at great cost (cf. Eccl. 5:4-5).
(Deu 8:18 KJV) But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day.
Deu 8:18: Vs. 8:18 This is an important lesson to remember: all we have is of God's grace (cf. 1 Cor. 4:7).
(Deu 8:18 NIV) But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your forefathers, as it is today.
(Deu 28:11 KJV) And the LORD shall make thee plenteous in goods, in the fruit of thy body, and in the fruit of thy cattle, and in the fruit of thy ground, in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers to give thee.
(Deu 28:11 NIV) The LORD will grant you abundant prosperity--in the fruit of your womb, the young of your livestock and the crops of your ground--in the land he swore to your forefathers to give you.
(2 Chr 26:5 KJV) And he sought God in the days of Zechariah, who had understanding in the visions of God: and as long as he sought the LORD, God made him to prosper.
2 Chr 26:5: Vs. 26:5 Zechariah. Not the postexilic prophet Zechariah, but another, unknown to us, by the same name.
(2 Chr 26:5 NIV) He sought God during the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God. As long as he sought the LORD, God gave him success.
(Isa 1:19 KJV) If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land:
(Isa 1:19 NIV) If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the best from the land;
(Job 36:11 KJV) If they obey and serve him, they shall spend their days in prosperity, and their years in pleasures.
(Job 36:11 NIV) If they obey and serve him, they will spend the rest of their days in prosperity and their years in contentment.
(Gen 26:12 KJV) Then Isaac sowed in that land, and received in the same year an hundredfold: and the LORD blessed him.
Isaac grows rich, The Philistines' envy
(Gen 26:12 NIV) Isaac planted crops in that land and the same year reaped a hundredfold, because the LORD blessed him.
Gen 26:12: Verses 12-17. God blessed Isaac. Be it observed, for the encouragement of poor tenants who occupy other people's lands, and are honest and industrious, that God blessed him with a great increase. The Philistines envied Isaac. It is an instance of the vanity of the world; for the more men have of it, the more they are envied, and exposed to censure and injury. Also of the corruption of nature; for that is an ill principle indeed, which makes men grieve at the good of others. They made Isaac go out of their country. That wisdom which is from above, will teach us to give up our right, and to draw back from contentions. If we are wrongfully driven from one place, the Lord will make room for us in another.
(2 Cor 8:6 KJV) Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also.
2 Cor 8:6: Vs. 8:6 Perhaps the collection had been stalled because of the problems in the Corinthian church.
B Purposes for Giving, 8:7-15
(2 Cor 8:7 KJV) Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.
2 Cor 8:7: Vs. 8:7-15 Some purposes in giving are (1) to abound in all aspects of Christian experience (v. 7), (2) to prove the reality of one's love (v. 8), (3) to imitate Christ (v. 9), and (4) to help meet the needs of others (v. 14).
(2 Cor 8:8 KJV) I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love.
(2 Cor 8:9 KJV) For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.
2 Cor 8:9: Vs. 8:9 A concise statement of the gospel and the motivation for giving.
(2 Cor 8:6 NIV) So we urged Titus, since he had earlier made a beginning, to bring also to completion this act of grace on your part.nforces this by their gifts, and by the love and grace of Christ
(2 Cor 8:7 NIV) But just as you excel in everything--in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us --see that you also excel in this grace of giving.
( Cor 8:7: Verses 7-9. Faith is the root; and as without faith it is not possible to please God, Hebrews 11:6, so those who abound in faith, will abound in other graces and good works also; and this will work and show itself by love. Great talkers are not always the best doers; but these Corinthians were diligent to do, as well as to know and talk well. To all these good things the apostle desires them to add this grace also, to abound in charity to the poor. The best arguments for Christian duties, are drawn from the grace and love of Christ. Though he was rich, as being God, equal in power and glory with the Father, yet he not only became man for us, but became poor also. At length he emptied himself, as it were, to ransom their souls by his sacrifice on the cross. From what riches, blessed Lord, to what poverty didst thou descend for our sakes! and to what riches hast thou advanced us through thy poverty! It is our happiness to be wholly at thy disposal.
(2 Cor 8:8 NIV) I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others.
(2 Cor 8:9 NIV) For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.
By the willingness they had shown to this good work
(2 Cor 8:10 NIV) And here is my advice about what is best for you in this matter: Last year you were the first not only to give but also to have the desire to do so.
2 Cor 8:10: Verses 10-15. Good purposes are like buds and blossoms, pleasant to behold, and give hopes of good fruit; but they are lost, and signify nothing without good deeds. Good beginnings are well; but we lose the benefit, unless there is perseverance. When men purpose that which is good, and endeavour, according to their ability, to perform also, God will not reject them for what it is not in their power to do. But this scripture will not justify those who think good meanings are enough, or that good purposes, and the mere profession of a willing mind, are enough to save. Providence gives to some more of the good things of this world, and to some less, that those who have abundance might supply others who are in want. It is the will of God, that by our mutual supplying one another, there should be some sort of equality; not such a levelling as would destroy property, for in such a case there could be no exercise of charity. All should think themselves concerned to relieve those in want. This is shown from the gathering and giving out the manna in the wilderness, Exodus 16:18. Those who have most of this world, have no more than food and raiment; and those who have but little of this world, seldom are quite without them.
(Mat 6:31 KJV) Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
(Mat 6:32 KJV) (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.
(Mat 6:33 KJV) But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
(Mat 6:31 NIV) So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'
(Mat 6:32 NIV) For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
(Mat 6:33 NIV) But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
II THE DEVELOPMENT OF FAITH, 1:3-21
A The Growth of Faith, 1:3-11
(2 Pet 1:3 KJV) According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:
(2 Pet 1:3 NIV) His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.
(Luke 6:38 KJV) Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
Luke 6:38: Vs. 6:38 pressed down, and shaken together, and running over. The imagery is of a container of grain filled to the brim and running over the edge. Our liberality should be like that.
(Luke 6:38 NIV) Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."
(Luke 4:18 KJV) The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,
Luke 4:18: Vs. 4:18 See Isa. 61:1-2a. Christ stopped reading in the middle of 61:2, since at His first coming He preached only the "acceptable year of the Lord" (v. 19). The "day of vengeance of our God" (Isa. 61:2b) was reserved for His second coming. Long-suffering and the cross are associated with His first coming; judgment and a crown, with His second.
(Luke 4:19 KJV) To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.
(Luke 4:18 NIV) "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed,
(Luke 4:19 NIV) to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor."
4 Exultant living, 8:31-39
(Rom 8:31 KJV) What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?
(Rom 8:32 KJV) He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?
(Rom 8:31 NIV) What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?
Their final triumph, through Christ
(Rom 8:32 NIV) He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all--how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?
Rom 8:32: Verses 32-39. All things whatever, in heaven and earth, are not so great a display of God's free love, as the gift of his coequal Son to be the atonement on the cross for the sin of man; and all the rest follows upon union with him, and interest in him. All things, all which can be the causes or means of any real good to the faithful Christian. He that has prepared a crown and a kingdom for us, will give us what we need in the way to it. Men may justify themselves, though the accusations are in full force against them; but if God justifies, that answers all. By Christ we are thus secured. By the merit of his death he paid our debt. Yea, rather that is risen again. This is convincing evidence that Divine justice was satisfied. We have such a Friend at the right hand of God; all power is given to him. He is there, making intercession. Believer! does your soul say within you, Oh that he were mine! and oh that I were his; that I could please him and live to him! Then do not toss your spirit and perplex your thoughts in fruitless, endless doubtings, but as you are convinced of ungodliness, believe on Him who justifies the ungodly. You are condemned, yet Christ is dead and risen. Flee to Him as such. God having manifested his love in giving his own Son for us, can we think that any thing should turn aside or do away that love? Troubles neither cause nor show any abatement of his love. Whatever believers may be separated from, enough remains. None can take Christ from the believer: none can take the believer from Him; and that is enough. All other hazards signify nothing. Alas, poor sinners! though you abound with the possessions of this world, what vain things are they! Can you say of any of them, Who shall separate us? You may be removed from pleasant dwellings, and friends, and estates. You may even live to see and seek your parting. At last you must part, for you must die. Then farewell, all this world accounts most valuable. And what hast thou left, poor soul, who hast not Christ, but that which thou wouldest gladly part with, and canst not; the condemning guilt of all thy sins! But the soul that is in Christ, when other things are pulled away, cleaves to Christ, and these separations pain him not. Yea, when death comes, that breaks all other unions, even that of the soul and body, it carries the believer's soul into the nearest union with its beloved Lord Jesus, and the full enjoyment of him for ever.
(1 Cor 10:26 KJV) For the earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof.
(1 Cor 10:26 NIV) for, "The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it."
(3 John 1:2 KJV) Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.
(3 John 1:2 NIV) Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.
(Prov 10:22 NIV) The blessing of the LORD brings wealth, and he adds no trouble to it.(Prov 10:23 NIV) A fool finds pleasure in evil conduct, but a man of understanding delights in wisdom.
(Prov 10:22 KJV) The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it. (Prov 10:23 KJV) It is as sport to a fool to do mischief: but a man of understanding hath wisdom.
Prov 10:22: Vs. 10:22 Real prosperity is a divine blessing, accompanied by neither anxiety nor trouble. Prov 10:23: Vs. 10:23 mischief. Wickedness. but a man of understanding hath wisdom. Better, and so is wisdom to a man of understanding.
(Prov 11:24 KJV) There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty.
Prov 11:24: Vs. 11:24 meet. Right; i.e., what he should give.
(Prov 11:24 NIV) One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.
(Prov 13:22 KJV) A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.
Prov 13:22: Vs. 13:22 just = righteous. Good men leave their wealth to their grandchildren, but sinners lose it to more righteous persons.
(Prov 13:22 NIV) A good man leaves an inheritance for his children's children, but a sinner's wealth is stored up for the righteous.
(Prov 22:29 KJV) Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.
Prov 22:29: Vs. 22:29 mean men. Obscure men.
Prov 22:29 Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings; he will not serve before obscure men.
(Psa 68:19 NIV) Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens. Selah
(Psa 68:19 KJV) Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah.
Psa 68:19: Vs. 68:19 loadeth us with benefits. Better, bears our burdens.
(Psa 84:11 NIV) For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.
(Psa 84:11 KJV) For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.
(Psa 112:1 KJV) Praise ye the LORD. Blessed is the man that feareth the LORD, that delighteth greatly in his commandments.
Psa 112:1: Ch. 112 An acrostic like the preceding psalm, this one contrasts the blessings of the righteous (vv. 1-9) and the judgment on the wicked (v. 10). Vs. 112:1 Here the fear of the Lord is related to obeying God's commands, which brings freedom from all other fears (vv. 7-8).
(Psa 112:2 KJV) His seed shall be mighty upon earth: the generation of the upright shall be blessed.
(Psa 112:3 KJV) Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his righteousness endureth for ever.
Psalms 112: The blessedness of the righteous.
(Psa 112:1 NIV) Praise the LORD. Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who finds great delight in his commands.
Psa 112:1: We have to praise the Lord that there are a people in the world, who fear him and serve him, and that they are a happy people; which is owing entirely to his grace. Their fear is not that which love casts out, but that which love brings in. It follows and flows from love. It is a fear to offend. This is both fear and trust. The heart touched by the Spirit of God, as the needle touched with the loadstone, turns direct and speedily to God, yet still with trembling, being filled with this holy fear. Blessings are laid up for the faithful and their children's children; and true riches are bestowed on them, with as much of this world's possessions as is profitable for them. In the darkest hours of affliction and trial, the light of hope and peace will spring up within them, and seasonable relief shall turn mourning into joy. From their Lord's example they learn to be kind and full of compassion, as well as just in all their dealings; they use discretion, that they may be liberal in that manner which appears most likely to do good. Envy and slander may for a time hide their true characters here, but they shall be had in everlasting remembrance. They need not fear evil tidings. A good man shall have a settled spirit. And it is the endeavour of true believers to keep their minds stayed upon God, and so to keep them calm and undisturbed; and God has promised them both cause to do so, and grace to do so. Trusting in the Lord is the best and surest way of establishing the heart. The heart of man cannot fix any where with satisfaction, but in the truth of God, and there it finds firm footing. And those whose hearts are established by faith, will patiently wait till they gain their point. Compare all this with the vexation of sinners. The happiness of the saints is the envy of the wicked. The desire of the wicked shall perish; their desire was wholly to the world and the flesh, therefore when these perish, their joy is gone. But the blessings of the gospel are spiritual and eternal, and are conferred upon the members of the Christian church, through Christ their Head, who is the Pattern of all righteousness, and the Giver of all grace.
(Psa 112:2 NIV) His children will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed.
(Psa 112:3 NIV) Wealth and riches are in his house, and his righteousness endures forever.
1 Samuel: In this book we have an account of Eli, and the wickedness of his sons; also of Samuel, his character and actions. Then of the advancement of Saul to be the king of Israel, and his ill behaviour, until his death made way for David's succession to the throne, who was an eminent type of Christ. David's patience, modesty, constancy, persecution by open enemies and feigned friends, are a pattern and example to the church, and to every member of it. Many things in this book encourage the faith, hope, and patience of the suffering believer. It contains also many useful cautions and awful warnings.
(1 Sam 1:1 NIV) There was a certain man from Ramathaim, a Zuphite from the hill country of Ephraim, whose name was Elkanah son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of Tohu, the son of Zuph, an Ephraimite.
1 Sam 1:1: Verses 1-8. Elkanah kept up his attendance at God's altar, notwithstanding the unhappy differences in his family. If the devotions of a family prevail not to put an end to its divisions, yet let not the divisions put a stop to the devotions. To abate our just love to any relation for the sake of any infirmity which they cannot help, and which is their affliction, is to make God's providence quarrel with his precept, and very unkindly to add affliction to the afflicted. It is evidence of a base disposition, to delight in grieving those who are of a sorrowful spirit, and in putting those out of humour who are apt to fret and be uneasy. We ought to bear one another's burdens, not add to them. Hannah could not bear the provocation. Those who are of a fretful spirit, and are apt to lay provocations too much to heart, are enemies to themselves, and strip themselves of many comforts both of life and godliness. We ought to notice comforts, to keep us from grieving for crosses. We should look at that which is for us, as well as what is against us.
(1 Sam 1:2 NIV) He had two wives; one was called Hannah and the other Peninnah. Peninnah had children, but Hannah had none.
(1 Sam 1:3 NIV) Year after year this man went up from his town to worship and sacrifice to the LORD Almighty at Shiloh, where Hophni and Phinehas, the two sons of Eli, were priests of the LORD.
(1 Sam 1:4 NIV) Whenever the day came for Elkanah to sacrifice, he would give portions of the meat to his wife Peninnah and to all her sons and daughters.
(1 Sam 1:5 NIV) But to Hannah he gave a double portion because he loved her, and the LORD had closed her womb.
(1 Sam 1:6 NIV) And because the LORD had closed her womb, her rival kept provoking her in order to irritate her.
(1 Sam 1:7 NIV) This went on year after year. Whenever Hannah went up to the house of the LORD, her rival provoked her till she wept and would not eat.
(1 Sam 1:8 NIV) Elkanah her husband would say to her, "Hannah, why are you weeping? Why don't you eat? Why are you downhearted? Don't I mean more to you than ten sons?"
Hannah's prayer
(1 Sam 1:9 NIV) Once when they had finished eating and drinking in Shiloh, Hannah stood up. Now Eli the priest was sitting on a chair by the doorpost of the Lord's temple.
1 Sam 1:9: Verses 9-18. Hannah mingled tears with her prayers; she considered the mercy of our God, who knows the troubled soul. God gives us leave, in prayer, not only to ask good things in general, but to mention that special good thing we most need and desire. She spoke softly, none could hear her. Hereby she testified her belief of God's knowledge of the heart and its desires. Eli was high priest, and judge in Israel. It ill becomes us to be rash and hasty in censures of others, and to think people guilty of bad things while the matter is doubtful and unproved. Hannah did not retort the charge, and upbraid Eli with the wicked conduct of his own sons. When we are at any time unjustly censured, we have need to set a double watch before the door of our lips, that we do not return censure for censure. Hannah thought it enough to clear herself, and so must we. Eli was willing to acknowledge his mistake. Hannah went away with satisfaction of mind. She had herself by prayer committed her case to God, and Eli had prayed for her. Prayer is heart's ease to a gracious soul. Prayer will smooth the countenance; it should do so. None will long remain miserable, who use aright the privilege of going to the mercy-seat of a reconciled God in Christ Jesus.
(1 Sam 1:10 NIV) In bitterness of soul Hannah wept much and prayed to the LORD.
(1 Sam 1:11 NIV) And she made a vow, saying, "O LORD Almighty, if you will only look upon your servant's misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the LORD for all the days of his life, and no razor will ever be used on his head."
(1 Sam 1:12 NIV) As she kept on praying to the LORD, Eli observed her mouth.
(1 Sam 1:13 NIV) Hannah was praying in her heart, and her lips were moving but her voice was not heard. Eli thought she was drunk
(1 Sam 1:14 NIV) and said to her, "How long will you keep on getting drunk? Get rid of your wine."
(1 Sam 1:15 NIV) "Not so, my lord," Hannah replied, "I am a woman who is deeply troubled. I have not been drinking wine or beer; I was pouring out my soul to the LORD.
(1 Sam 1:16 NIV) Do not take your servant for a wicked woman; I have been praying here out of my great anguish and grief."
(1 Sam 1:17 NIV) Eli answered, "Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of him."
(1 Sam 1:18 NIV) She said, "May your servant find favor in your eyes." Then she went her way and ate something, and her face was no longer downcast.
Samuel, Hannah presents him to the Lord
(1 Sam 1:19 NIV) Early the next morning they arose and worshiped before the LORD and then went back to their home at Ramah. Elkanah lay with Hannah his wife, and the LORD remembered her.
1 Sam 1:19: Verses 19-28. Elkanah and his family had a journey before them, and a family of children to take with them, yet they would not move till they had worshipped God together. Prayer and provender do not hinder a journey. When men are in such haste to set out upon journeys, or to engage in business, that they have not time to worship God, they are likely to proceed without his presence and blessing. Hannah, though she felt a warm regard for the courts of God's house, begged to stay at home. God will have mercy, and not sacrifice. Those who are detained from public ordinances, by the nursing and tending of little children, may take comfort from this instance, and believe, that if they do that duty in a right spirit, God will graciously accept them therein. Hannah presented her child to the Lord with a grateful acknowledgment of his goodness in answer to prayer. Whatever we give to God, it is what we have first asked and received from him. All our gifts to him were first his gifts to us. The child Samuel early showed true piety. Little children should be taught to worship God when very young. Their parents should teach them in it, bring them to it, and put them on doing it as well as they can; God will graciously accept them, and will teach them to do better.
(1 Sam 1:20 NIV) So in the course of time Hannah conceived and gave birth to a son. She named him Samuel, saying, "Because I asked the LORD for him."
(1 Sam 1:21 NIV) When the man Elkanah went up with all his family to offer the annual sacrifice to the LORD and to fulfill his vow,
(1 Sam 1:22 NIV) Hannah did not go. She said to her husband, "After the boy is weaned, I will take him and present him before the LORD, and he will live there always."
(1 Sam 1:23 NIV) "Do what seems best to you," Elkanah her husband told her. "Stay here until you have weaned him; only may the LORD make good his word." So the woman stayed at home and nursed her son until she had weaned him.
(1 Sam 1:24 NIV) After he was weaned, she took the boy with her, young as he was, along with a three-year-old bull, an ephah of flour and a skin of wine, and brought him to the house of the LORD at Shiloh.
(1 Sam 1:25 NIV) When they had slaughtered the bull, they brought the boy to Eli,
(1 Sam 1:26 NIV) and she said to him, "As surely as you live, my lord, I am the woman who stood here beside you praying to the LORD.
(1 Sam 1:27 NIV) I prayed for this child, and the LORD has granted me what I asked of him.
(1 Sam 1:28 NIV) So now I give him to the LORD. For his whole life he will be given over to the LORD." And he worshiped the LORD there.
1 Samuel: 1 SAMUEL
DATE: 930 B.C. and later
Authors Though the two books of Samuel are named for the key figure of the early chapters, Samuel could not have written more than part of 1 Samuel, since his death is recorded in chap. 25. That he did in fact write a book is attested to in 1 Samuel 10:25. First Chronicles 29:29 indicates that Nathan and Gad also wrote about the events recorded in Samuel.
Historical Background Samuel emerged as the last judge in the 350-year span of the judges. The book covers a period of about 115 years, from the childhood of Samuel to the beginning of the reign of King David. Appearing on the scene during one of the darkest periods of Israel's history, Samuel called the people to a revival of the true worship of Yahweh (the LORD; Acts 3:24). He was also a kingmaker, anointing both Saul (10:1) and David (16:13). Thus 1 Samuel forms the link between the judges and the monarchy.
Contents First Samuel focuses on three principal characters: Samuel, Saul, and David. (Second Samuel centers exclusively on David.) The principal lesson of the book has to do with the effects of sin and holiness in relation to the people and their leaders. Well-known stories in the book include that of David and Goliath (chap. 17), David and Jonathan (chap. 18), and Saul and the witch of En-dor (chap. 28).
(1 Sam 1:1 KJV) Now there was a certain man of Ramathaimzophim, of mount Ephraim, and his name was Elkanah, the son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of Tohu, the son of Zuph, an Ephrathite:
1 Sam 1:1: TIMELINE OF 1 SAMUEL (see chart).
Vs. 1:1 Ramathaim-zophim. Lit., the heights of the Zuphite. A longer name for Ramah (1:19), a city in the hill country of Ephraim, five mi (eight km) N of Jerusalem. Although Elkanah was an Ephraimite by residence, he was a Levite by birth through the Kohathites who were allotted towns in Ephraim (1 Chron. 6:33-36).
(1 Sam 1:2 KJV) And he had two wives; the name of the one was Hannah, and the name of the other Peninnah: and Peninnah had children, but Hannah had no children.
1 Sam 1:2: Vs. 1:2 Though at variance with God's ideal for marriage (Gen. 2:24), polygamy was allowed in the case of a childless first marriage (cf. Deut. 21:15-17) and of a levirate marriage (Deut. 25:5-10), but the practice often caused great misery (cf. vv. 6-7).
(1 Sam 1:3 KJV) And this man went up out of his city yearly to worship and to sacrifice unto the LORD of hosts in Shiloh. And the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, the priests of the LORD, were there.
1 Sam 1:3: Vs. 1:3 Yearly. Three times a year male Israelites were required to appear at the central sanctuary--at the festivals of Unleavened Bread, Pentecost, and Tabernacles. See Ex. 23:14-17 and its note. Which festival this was is not said. LORD of hosts. A military figure, referring to God as the One who commands the angelic armies of heaven (1 Kings 22:19; Luke 2:13; Rev. 19:14) and the armies of Israel (1 Sam. 17:45). The term emphasizes the sovereignty and omnipotence of God. Shiloh. The location of the Tabernacle (Josh. 18:1) and the religious center of the nation until the loss of the ark (1 Sam. 4). It was 20 mi (32 km) N of Jerusalem.
(1 Sam 1:4 KJV) And when the time was that Elkanah offered, he gave to Peninnah his wife, and to all her sons and her daughters, portions:
(1 Sam 1:5 KJV) But unto Hannah he gave a worthy portion; for he loved Hannah: but the LORD had shut up her womb.
1 Sam 1:5: Vs. 1:5 worthy portion. Better, double portion.
(1 Sam 1:6 KJV) And her adversary also provoked her sore, for to make her fret, because the LORD had shut up her womb.
1 Sam 1:6: Vs. 1:6 adversary. Better, rival. sore = greatly. fret. Lit., thunder; i.e., irritated.
(1 Sam 1:7 KJV) And as he did so year by year, when she went up to the house of the LORD, so she provoked her; therefore she wept, and did not eat.
(1 Sam 1:8 KJV) Then said Elkanah her husband to her, Hannah, why weepest thou? and why eatest thou not? and why is thy heart grieved? am not I better to thee than ten sons?
1 Sam 1:8: Vs. 1:8 Elkanah considered his love and care for her a greater blessing than a large family!
b Her supplication, 1:9-18
(1 Sam 1:9 KJV) So Hannah rose up after they had eaten in Shiloh, and after they had drunk. Now Eli the priest sat upon a seat by a post of the temple of the LORD.
1 Sam 1:9: Vs. 1:9 temple. I.e., the Tabernacle and additional quarters (3:2-3).
(1 Sam 1:10 KJV) And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the LORD, and wept sore.
(1 Sam 1:11 KJV) And she vowed a vow, and said, O LORD of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the LORD all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head.
1 Sam 1:11: Vs. 1:11 Hannah vowed that if she were given a son, he would be dedicated to lifelong levitical service (cf. Num. 4:2-3) and become a lifelong Nazarite. See note on Num. 6:1-8.
(1 Sam 1:12 KJV) And it came to pass, as she continued praying before the LORD, that Eli marked her mouth.
(1 Sam 1:13 KJV) Now Hannah, she spake in her heart; only her lips moved, but her voice was not heard: therefore Eli thought she had been drunken.
1 Sam 1:13: Vs. 1:13 Apparently drunkenness was not uncommon even at the Tabernacle and by women.
(1 Sam 1:14 KJV) And Eli said unto her, How long wilt thou be drunken? put away thy wine from thee.
(1 Sam 1:15 KJV) And Hannah answered and said, No, my lord, I am a woman of a sorrowful spirit: I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but have poured out my soul before the LORD.
1 Sam 1:15: Vs. 1:15 The outpouring of one's soul before God is an excellent description of fervent prayer (cf. Phil. 4:6-7; 1 Peter 5:7).
1 Sam 1:16 KJV) Count not thine handmaid for a daughter of Belial: for out of the abundance of my complaint and grief have I spoken hitherto.
1 Sam 1:16: Vs. 1:16 a daughter of Belial = a worthless woman.
(1 Sam 1:17 KJV) Then Eli answered and said, Go in peace: and the God of Israel grant thee thy petition that thou hast asked of him.
(1 Sam 1:18 KJV) And she said, Let thine handmaid find grace in thy sight. So the woman went her way, and did eat, and her countenance was no more sad.
c Her son, 1:19-23
(1 Sam 1:19 KJV) And they rose up in the morning early, and worshipped before the LORD, and returned, and came to their house to Ramah: and Elkanah knew Hannah his wife; and the LORD remembered her.
1 Sam 1:19: Vs. 1:19 knew. Often, as here, a euphemism for sexual relations.
(1 Sam 1:20 KJV) Wherefore it came to pass, when the time was come about after Hannah had conceived, that she bare a son, and called his name Samuel, saying, Because I have asked him of the LORD.
1 Sam 1:20: Vs. 1:20 Samuel means "name of God" and serves as a continual reminder of God's mercy toward those who call upon His name.
(1 Sam 1:21 KJV) And the man Elkanah, and all his house, went up to offer unto the LORD the yearly sacrifice, and his vow.
(1 Sam 1:22 KJV) But Hannah went not up; for she said unto her husband, I will not go up until the child be weaned, and then I will bring him, that he may appear before the LORD, and there abide for ever.
1 Sam 1:22: Vs. 1:22 weaned. Hebrew children were normally weaned at two to three years (cf. 2 Macc. 7:27).
(1 Sam 1:23 KJV) And Elkanah her husband said unto her, Do what seemeth thee good; tarry until thou have weaned him; only the LORD establish his word. So the woman abode, and gave her son suck until she weaned him.
1 Sam 1:23: Vs. 1:23 gave her son suck. Nursed. d Her sacrifice, 1:24-28
(1 Sam 1:24 KJV) And when she had weaned him, she took him up with her, with three bullocks, and one ephah of flour, and a bottle of wine, and brought him unto the house of the LORD in Shiloh: and the child was young.
1 Sam 1:24: Vs. 1:24 ephah = three-fifths of a bushel (20 qt, or 22 lit). bottle. I.e., wineskin or jug.
(1 Sam 1:25 KJV) And they slew a bullock, and brought the child to Eli.
(1 Sam 1:26 KJV) And she said, Oh my lord, as thy soul liveth, my lord, I am the woman that stood by thee here, praying unto the LORD.
(1 Sam 1:27 KJV) For this child I prayed; and the LORD hath given me my petition which I asked of him:
(1 Sam 1:28 KJV) Therefore also I have lent him to the LORD; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the LORD. And he worshipped the LORD there.
1 Sam 1:28: Vs. 1:28 lent him. Lit., made him over. The idea is that of a complete and irrevocable giving up of the child to the Lord. Hannah was careful to pay the vow even at great cost (cf. Eccl. 5:4-5).
(Deu 8:18 KJV) But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day.
Deu 8:18: Vs. 8:18 This is an important lesson to remember: all we have is of God's grace (cf. 1 Cor. 4:7).
(Deu 8:18 NIV) But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your forefathers, as it is today.
(Deu 28:11 KJV) And the LORD shall make thee plenteous in goods, in the fruit of thy body, and in the fruit of thy cattle, and in the fruit of thy ground, in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers to give thee.
(Deu 28:11 NIV) The LORD will grant you abundant prosperity--in the fruit of your womb, the young of your livestock and the crops of your ground--in the land he swore to your forefathers to give you.
(2 Chr 26:5 KJV) And he sought God in the days of Zechariah, who had understanding in the visions of God: and as long as he sought the LORD, God made him to prosper.
2 Chr 26:5: Vs. 26:5 Zechariah. Not the postexilic prophet Zechariah, but another, unknown to us, by the same name.
(2 Chr 26:5 NIV) He sought God during the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God. As long as he sought the LORD, God gave him success.
(Isa 1:19 KJV) If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land:
(Isa 1:19 NIV) If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the best from the land;
(Job 36:11 KJV) If they obey and serve him, they shall spend their days in prosperity, and their years in pleasures.
(Job 36:11 NIV) If they obey and serve him, they will spend the rest of their days in prosperity and their years in contentment.
(Gen 26:12 KJV) Then Isaac sowed in that land, and received in the same year an hundredfold: and the LORD blessed him.
Isaac grows rich, The Philistines' envy
(Gen 26:12 NIV) Isaac planted crops in that land and the same year reaped a hundredfold, because the LORD blessed him.
Gen 26:12: Verses 12-17. God blessed Isaac. Be it observed, for the encouragement of poor tenants who occupy other people's lands, and are honest and industrious, that God blessed him with a great increase. The Philistines envied Isaac. It is an instance of the vanity of the world; for the more men have of it, the more they are envied, and exposed to censure and injury. Also of the corruption of nature; for that is an ill principle indeed, which makes men grieve at the good of others. They made Isaac go out of their country. That wisdom which is from above, will teach us to give up our right, and to draw back from contentions. If we are wrongfully driven from one place, the Lord will make room for us in another.
(2 Cor 8:6 KJV) Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also.
2 Cor 8:6: Vs. 8:6 Perhaps the collection had been stalled because of the problems in the Corinthian church.
B Purposes for Giving, 8:7-15
(2 Cor 8:7 KJV) Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.
2 Cor 8:7: Vs. 8:7-15 Some purposes in giving are (1) to abound in all aspects of Christian experience (v. 7), (2) to prove the reality of one's love (v. 8), (3) to imitate Christ (v. 9), and (4) to help meet the needs of others (v. 14).
(2 Cor 8:8 KJV) I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love.
(2 Cor 8:9 KJV) For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.
2 Cor 8:9: Vs. 8:9 A concise statement of the gospel and the motivation for giving.
(2 Cor 8:6 NIV) So we urged Titus, since he had earlier made a beginning, to bring also to completion this act of grace on your part.nforces this by their gifts, and by the love and grace of Christ
(2 Cor 8:7 NIV) But just as you excel in everything--in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us --see that you also excel in this grace of giving.
( Cor 8:7: Verses 7-9. Faith is the root; and as without faith it is not possible to please God, Hebrews 11:6, so those who abound in faith, will abound in other graces and good works also; and this will work and show itself by love. Great talkers are not always the best doers; but these Corinthians were diligent to do, as well as to know and talk well. To all these good things the apostle desires them to add this grace also, to abound in charity to the poor. The best arguments for Christian duties, are drawn from the grace and love of Christ. Though he was rich, as being God, equal in power and glory with the Father, yet he not only became man for us, but became poor also. At length he emptied himself, as it were, to ransom their souls by his sacrifice on the cross. From what riches, blessed Lord, to what poverty didst thou descend for our sakes! and to what riches hast thou advanced us through thy poverty! It is our happiness to be wholly at thy disposal.
(2 Cor 8:8 NIV) I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others.
(2 Cor 8:9 NIV) For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.
By the willingness they had shown to this good work
(2 Cor 8:10 NIV) And here is my advice about what is best for you in this matter: Last year you were the first not only to give but also to have the desire to do so.
2 Cor 8:10: Verses 10-15. Good purposes are like buds and blossoms, pleasant to behold, and give hopes of good fruit; but they are lost, and signify nothing without good deeds. Good beginnings are well; but we lose the benefit, unless there is perseverance. When men purpose that which is good, and endeavour, according to their ability, to perform also, God will not reject them for what it is not in their power to do. But this scripture will not justify those who think good meanings are enough, or that good purposes, and the mere profession of a willing mind, are enough to save. Providence gives to some more of the good things of this world, and to some less, that those who have abundance might supply others who are in want. It is the will of God, that by our mutual supplying one another, there should be some sort of equality; not such a levelling as would destroy property, for in such a case there could be no exercise of charity. All should think themselves concerned to relieve those in want. This is shown from the gathering and giving out the manna in the wilderness, Exodus 16:18. Those who have most of this world, have no more than food and raiment; and those who have but little of this world, seldom are quite without them.
(Mat 6:31 KJV) Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
(Mat 6:32 KJV) (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.
(Mat 6:33 KJV) But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
(Mat 6:31 NIV) So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'
(Mat 6:32 NIV) For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
(Mat 6:33 NIV) But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
II THE DEVELOPMENT OF FAITH, 1:3-21
A The Growth of Faith, 1:3-11
(2 Pet 1:3 KJV) According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:
(2 Pet 1:3 NIV) His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.
(Luke 6:38 KJV) Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
Luke 6:38: Vs. 6:38 pressed down, and shaken together, and running over. The imagery is of a container of grain filled to the brim and running over the edge. Our liberality should be like that.
(Luke 6:38 NIV) Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."
(Luke 4:18 KJV) The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,
Luke 4:18: Vs. 4:18 See Isa. 61:1-2a. Christ stopped reading in the middle of 61:2, since at His first coming He preached only the "acceptable year of the Lord" (v. 19). The "day of vengeance of our God" (Isa. 61:2b) was reserved for His second coming. Long-suffering and the cross are associated with His first coming; judgment and a crown, with His second.
(Luke 4:19 KJV) To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.
(Luke 4:18 NIV) "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed,
(Luke 4:19 NIV) to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor."
4 Exultant living, 8:31-39
(Rom 8:31 KJV) What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?
(Rom 8:32 KJV) He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?
(Rom 8:31 NIV) What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?
Their final triumph, through Christ
(Rom 8:32 NIV) He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all--how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?
Rom 8:32: Verses 32-39. All things whatever, in heaven and earth, are not so great a display of God's free love, as the gift of his coequal Son to be the atonement on the cross for the sin of man; and all the rest follows upon union with him, and interest in him. All things, all which can be the causes or means of any real good to the faithful Christian. He that has prepared a crown and a kingdom for us, will give us what we need in the way to it. Men may justify themselves, though the accusations are in full force against them; but if God justifies, that answers all. By Christ we are thus secured. By the merit of his death he paid our debt. Yea, rather that is risen again. This is convincing evidence that Divine justice was satisfied. We have such a Friend at the right hand of God; all power is given to him. He is there, making intercession. Believer! does your soul say within you, Oh that he were mine! and oh that I were his; that I could please him and live to him! Then do not toss your spirit and perplex your thoughts in fruitless, endless doubtings, but as you are convinced of ungodliness, believe on Him who justifies the ungodly. You are condemned, yet Christ is dead and risen. Flee to Him as such. God having manifested his love in giving his own Son for us, can we think that any thing should turn aside or do away that love? Troubles neither cause nor show any abatement of his love. Whatever believers may be separated from, enough remains. None can take Christ from the believer: none can take the believer from Him; and that is enough. All other hazards signify nothing. Alas, poor sinners! though you abound with the possessions of this world, what vain things are they! Can you say of any of them, Who shall separate us? You may be removed from pleasant dwellings, and friends, and estates. You may even live to see and seek your parting. At last you must part, for you must die. Then farewell, all this world accounts most valuable. And what hast thou left, poor soul, who hast not Christ, but that which thou wouldest gladly part with, and canst not; the condemning guilt of all thy sins! But the soul that is in Christ, when other things are pulled away, cleaves to Christ, and these separations pain him not. Yea, when death comes, that breaks all other unions, even that of the soul and body, it carries the believer's soul into the nearest union with its beloved Lord Jesus, and the full enjoyment of him for ever.
(1 Cor 10:26 KJV) For the earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof.
(1 Cor 10:26 NIV) for, "The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it."
(3 John 1:2 KJV) Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.
(3 John 1:2 NIV) Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.
If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.”- Galatians 5:25
The two most important things in our holy religion are the life of faith and the walk of faith. He who shall rightly understand these is not far from being a master in experimental theology, for they are vital points to a Christian. You will never find true faith unattended by true godliness; on the other hand, you will never discover a truly holy life which has not for its root a living faith upon the righteousness of Christ. Woe unto those who seek after the one without the other! There are some who cultivate faith and forget holiness; these may be very high in orthodoxy, but they shall be very deep in condemnation, for they hold the truth in unrighteousness; and there are others who have strained after holiness of life, but have denied the faith, like the Pharisees of old, of whom the Master said, they were “whitewashed sepulchres.” We must have faith, for this is the foundation; we must have holiness of life, for this is the superstructure. Of what service is the mere foundation of a building to a man in the day of tempest? Can he hide himself therein? He wants a house to cover him, as well as a foundation for that house. Even so we need the superstructure of spiritual life if we would have comfort in the day of doubt. But seek not a holy life without faith, for that would be to erect a house which can afford no permanent shelter, because it has no foundation on a rock. Let faith and life be put together, and, like the two abutments of an arch, they will make our piety enduring. Like light and heat streaming from the same sun, they are alike full of blessing. Like the two pillars of the temple, they are for glory and for beauty. They are two streams from the fountain of grace; two lamps lit with holy fire; two olive trees watered by heavenly care. O Lord, give us this day life within, and it will reveal itself without to thy glory.
“And they follow me.”- John 10:27
We should follow our Lord as unhesitatingly as sheep follow their shepherd, for he has a right to lead us wherever he pleases. We are not our own, we are bought with a price-let us recognize the rights of the redeeming blood. The soldier follows his captain, the servant obeys his master, much more must we follow our Redeemer, to whom we are a purchased possession. We are not true to our profession of being Christians, if we question the bidding of our Leader and Commander. Submission is our duty, cavilling is our folly. Often might our Lord say to us as to Peter, “What is that to thee? Follow thou me.” Wherever Jesus may lead us, he goes before us. If we know not where we go, we know with whom we go. With such a companion, who will dread the perils of the road? The journey may be long, but his everlasting arms will carry us to the end. The presence of Jesus is the assurance of eternal salvation, because he lives, we shall live also. We should follow Christ in simplicity and faith, because the paths in which he leads us all end in glory and immortality. It is true they may not be smooth paths-they may be covered with sharp flinty trials, but they lead to the “city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.” “All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant.” Let us put full trust in our Leader, since we know that, come prosperity or adversity, sickness or health, popularity or contempt, his purpose shall be worked out, and that purpose shall be pure, unmingled good to every heir of mercy. We shall find it sweet to go up the bleak side of the hill with Christ; and when rain and snow blow into our faces, his dear love will make us far more blest than those who sit at home and warm their hands at the world’s fire. To the top of Amana, to the dens of lions, or to the hills of leopards, we will follow our Beloved. Precious Jesus, draw us, and we will run after thee.
The two most important things in our holy religion are the life of faith and the walk of faith. He who shall rightly understand these is not far from being a master in experimental theology, for they are vital points to a Christian. You will never find true faith unattended by true godliness; on the other hand, you will never discover a truly holy life which has not for its root a living faith upon the righteousness of Christ. Woe unto those who seek after the one without the other! There are some who cultivate faith and forget holiness; these may be very high in orthodoxy, but they shall be very deep in condemnation, for they hold the truth in unrighteousness; and there are others who have strained after holiness of life, but have denied the faith, like the Pharisees of old, of whom the Master said, they were “whitewashed sepulchres.” We must have faith, for this is the foundation; we must have holiness of life, for this is the superstructure. Of what service is the mere foundation of a building to a man in the day of tempest? Can he hide himself therein? He wants a house to cover him, as well as a foundation for that house. Even so we need the superstructure of spiritual life if we would have comfort in the day of doubt. But seek not a holy life without faith, for that would be to erect a house which can afford no permanent shelter, because it has no foundation on a rock. Let faith and life be put together, and, like the two abutments of an arch, they will make our piety enduring. Like light and heat streaming from the same sun, they are alike full of blessing. Like the two pillars of the temple, they are for glory and for beauty. They are two streams from the fountain of grace; two lamps lit with holy fire; two olive trees watered by heavenly care. O Lord, give us this day life within, and it will reveal itself without to thy glory.
“And they follow me.”- John 10:27
We should follow our Lord as unhesitatingly as sheep follow their shepherd, for he has a right to lead us wherever he pleases. We are not our own, we are bought with a price-let us recognize the rights of the redeeming blood. The soldier follows his captain, the servant obeys his master, much more must we follow our Redeemer, to whom we are a purchased possession. We are not true to our profession of being Christians, if we question the bidding of our Leader and Commander. Submission is our duty, cavilling is our folly. Often might our Lord say to us as to Peter, “What is that to thee? Follow thou me.” Wherever Jesus may lead us, he goes before us. If we know not where we go, we know with whom we go. With such a companion, who will dread the perils of the road? The journey may be long, but his everlasting arms will carry us to the end. The presence of Jesus is the assurance of eternal salvation, because he lives, we shall live also. We should follow Christ in simplicity and faith, because the paths in which he leads us all end in glory and immortality. It is true they may not be smooth paths-they may be covered with sharp flinty trials, but they lead to the “city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.” “All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant.” Let us put full trust in our Leader, since we know that, come prosperity or adversity, sickness or health, popularity or contempt, his purpose shall be worked out, and that purpose shall be pure, unmingled good to every heir of mercy. We shall find it sweet to go up the bleak side of the hill with Christ; and when rain and snow blow into our faces, his dear love will make us far more blest than those who sit at home and warm their hands at the world’s fire. To the top of Amana, to the dens of lions, or to the hills of leopards, we will follow our Beloved. Precious Jesus, draw us, and we will run after thee.
PRIMARY TRINITY VERSES
PRIMARY TRINITY VERSES
(Mat 28:19 NKJV) "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
Mat 28:19: Vs. 28:19 make disciples of all nations. This is the one command in the Commission. It is surrounded by three participles: go (lit., going), baptizing, and teaching (v. 20). The first participle ("going") may rightly be translated as a command ("go") as it is in 2:8. This is the missionary task of the church. in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Here is evidence for the trinity of God: one God (the name) who subsists in three Persons (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). Each of the three is distinguished from the others; each possesses all the divine attributes; yet the three are one. This is a mystery that no analogy can illustrate satisfactorily. The sun, sunlight, and the power of the sun may come close to a suitable illustration.
(Mat 28:19 KJV) Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
Mathew Henry Notes
Verses 16-20. This evangelist passes over other appearances of Christ, recorded by Luke and John, and hastens to the most solemn; one appointed before his death, and after his resurrection. All that see the Lord Jesus with an eye of faith will worship him. Yet the faith of the sincere may be very weak and wavering. But Christ gave such convincing proofs of his resurrection, as made their faith to triumph over doubts. He now solemnly commissioned the apostles and his ministers to go forth among all nations. The salvation they were to preach, is a common salvation; whoever will, let him come, and take the benefit; all are welcome to Christ Jesus. Christianity is the religion of a sinner who applies for salvation from deserved wrath and from sin; he applies to the mercy of the Father, through the atonement of the incarnate Son, and by the sanctification of the Holy Spirit, and gives up himself to be the worshipper and servant of God, as the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, three Persons but one God, in all his ordinances and commandments. Baptism is an outward sign of that inward washing, or sanctification of the Spirit, which seals and evidences the believer's justification. Let us examine ourselves, whether we really possess the inward and spiritual grace of a death unto sin, and a new birth unto righteousness, by which those who were the children of wrath become the children of God. Believers shall have the constant presence of their Lord always; all days, every day. There is no day, no hour of the day, in which our Lord Jesus is not present with his churches and with his ministers; if there were, in that day, that hour, they would be undone. The God of Israel, the Savior, is sometimes a God that hideth himself, but never a God at a distance. To these precious words Amen is added. Even so, Lord Jesus, be thou with us and all thy people; cause thy face to shine upon us, that thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations.
1 John 5:7 For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.
1 John 5:8 And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one.
Verses 6-8. We are inwardly and outwardly defiled; inwardly, by the power and pollution of sin in our nature. For our cleansing there is in and by Christ Jesus, the washing of regeneration and the renewing of the Holy Ghost. Some think that the two sacraments are here meant: baptism with water, as the outward sign of regeneration, and purifying from the pollution of sin by the Holy Spirit; and the Lord's supper, as the outward sign of the shedding Christ's blood, and the receiving him by faith for pardon and justification. Both these ways of cleansing were represented in the old ceremonial sacrifices and cleansings. This water and blood include all that is necessary to our salvation. By the water, our souls are washed and purified for heaven and the habitation of saints in light. By the blood, we are justified, reconciled, and presented righteous to God. By the blood, the curse of the law being satisfied, the purifying Spirit is obtained for the internal cleansing of our natures. The water, as well as the blood, came out of the side of the sacrificed Redeemer. He loved the church, and gave himself for it, that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word; that he might present it to himself a glorious church, Ephesians 5:25-27. This was done in and by the Spirit of God, according to the Savior’s declaration. He is the Spirit of God, and cannot lie. Three had borne witness to these doctrines concerning the person and the salvation of Christ. The Father, repeatedly, by a voice from heaven declared that Jesus was his beloved Son. The Word declared that He and the Father were One, and that whoever had seen him had seen the Father. And the Holy Ghost, who descended from heaven and rested on Christ at his baptism; who had borne witness to Him by all the prophets; and gave testimony to his resurrection and mediatorial office, by the gift of miraculous powers to the apostles. But whether this passage be cited or not, the doctrine of the Trinity in Unity stands equally firm and certain. To the doctrine taught by the apostles, respecting the person and salvation of Christ, there were three testimonies. 1. The Holy Spirit. We come into the world with a corrupt, carnal disposition, which is enmity to God. This being done away by the regeneration and new-creating of souls by the Holy Spirit, is a testimony to the Savior. 2. The water: this sets forth the Savior’s purity and purifying power. The actual and active purity and holiness of his disciples are represented by baptism. 3. The blood which he shed: and this was our ransom, this testifies for Jesus Christ; it sealed up and finished the sacrifices of the Old Testament. The benefits procured by his blood, prove that he is the Savior of the world. No wonder if he that rejects this evidence is judged a blasphemer of the Spirit of God. These three witnesses are for one and the same purpose; they agree in one and the same thing.
1 John 5:6 This is He who came by water and blood; Jesus Christ; not only by water, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit who bears witness, because the Spirit is truth.
1 John 5:7 For there are three that bear witness in heaven: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one.
1 John 5:8 And there are three that bear witness on earth: the Spirit, the water, and the blood; and these three agree as one.
Vs. 5:6 by water and blood. The water refers to the inauguration of Christ's earthly ministry at His baptism by John (Mark 1:9-11); the blood refers to the close of His earthly life at His crucifixion. Jesus proved Himself to be the Christ (Messiah) at His baptism and by pouring out His soul to death. not . . . by water only, but by water and blood. This counters the teaching of Cerinthus, who said that the divine Christ left Jesus before His crucifixion.
(Acts 2:38 KJV) Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
(Acts 2:39 KJV) For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.
Vs. 2:38 Repent. To change one's mind; specifically, here, about Jesus of Nazareth, and to acknowledge Him as Lord (= God) and Christ (= Messiah). Such repentance brings salvation. There is also a repentance needed in the Christian life in relation to specific sins (2 Cor. 7:9; Rev. 2:5) and a repentance that has nothing to do with salvation (Matt. 21:28-30). be baptized . . . for the forgiveness of your sins. On baptism, see note on Matt. 3:11. Water baptism is the outward sign of repentance and forgiveness of sins. Forgiveness is through faith in Christ, not through the act of baptism (for may here mean "because of," as in Matt. 12:41). the gift of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is a gift to all who believe, not a reward to some.
John: The apostle and evangelist, John, seems to have been the youngest of the twelve. He was especially favoured with our Lord's regard and confidence, so as to be spoken of as the disciple whom Jesus loved. He was very sincerely attached to his Master. He exercised his ministry at Jerusalem with much success, and outlived the destruction of that city, agreeably to Christ's prediction, vs. 21:22. History relates that after the death of Christ's mother, John resided chiefly at Ephesus. Towards the close of Domitian's reign he was banished to the isle of Patmos, where he wrote his Revelation. On the accession of Nerva, he was set at liberty, and returned to Ephesus, where it is thought he wrote his Gospel and Epistles, about A. D. 97, and died soon after. The design of this Gospel appears to be to convey to the Christian world, just notions of the real nature, office, and character of that Divine Teacher, who came to instruct and to redeem mankind. For this purpose, John was directed to select for his narrative, those passages of our Savior’s life, which most clearly displayed his Divine power and authority; and those of his discourses, in which he spake most plainly of his own nature, and of the power of his death, as an atonement for the sins of the world. By omitting, or only briefly mentioning, the events recorded by the other evangelists, John gave testimony that their narratives are true, and left room for the doctrinal statements already mentioned, and for particulars omitted in the other Gospels, many of which are exceedingly important.
John 1: (v. 1-5) The Divinity of Christ.
(John 1:1 KJV) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
John 1:1: Verses 1-5. The plainest reason why the Son of God is called the Word, seems to be, that as our words explain our minds to others, so was the Son of God sent in order to reveal his Father's mind to the world. What the evangelist says of Christ proves that he is God. He asserts, His existence in the beginning; His coexistence with the Father. The Word was with God. All things were made by him, and not as an instrument. Without him was not any thing made that was made, from the highest angel to the meanest worm. This shows how well qualified he was for the work of our redemption and salvation. The light of reason, as well as the life of sense, is derived from him, and depends upon him. This eternal Word, this true Light shines, but the darkness comprehends it not. Let us pray without ceasing, that our eyes may be opened to behold this Light, that we may walk in it; and thus be made wise unto salvation, by faith in Jesus Christ.
(John 1:2 KJV) The same was in the beginning with God.
(John 1:3 KJV) All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
(John 1:4 KJV) In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
(John 1:5 KJV) And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.
His Divine and human nature
(John 1:6 KJV) There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.
John 1:6: Verses 6-14. John the Baptist came to bear witness concerning Jesus. Nothing more fully shows the darkness of men's minds, than that when the Light had appeared, there needed a witness to call attention to it. Christ was the true Light; that great Light which deserves to be called so. By his Spirit and grace he enlightens all that are enlightened to salvation; and those that are not enlightened by him, perish in darkness. Christ was in the world when he took our nature upon him, and dwelt among us. The Son of the Highest was here in this lower world. He was in the world, but not of it. He came to save a lost world, because it was a world of his own making. Yet the world knew him not. When he comes as a Judge, the world shall know him. Many say that they are Christ's own, yet do not receive him, because they will not part with their sins, nor have him to reign over them. All the children of God are born again. This new birth is through the word of God as the means, 1 Peter 1:23, and by the Spirit of God as the Author. By his Divine presence Christ always was in the world. But now that the fulness of time was come, he was, after another manner, God manifested in the flesh. But observe the beams of his Divine glory, which darted through this veil of flesh. Men discover their weaknesses to those most familiar with them, but it was not so with Christ; those most intimate with him saw most of his glory. Although he was in the form of a servant, as to outward circumstances, yet, in respect of graces, his form was like the Son of God His Divine glory appeared in the holiness of his doctrine, and in his miracles. He was full of grace, fully acceptable to his Father, therefore qualified to plead for us; and full of truth, fully aware of the things he was to reveal.
John
Authorship The writer of this gospel is identified in the book only as "the disciple whom Jesus loved" (21:20, 24). He obviously was a Palestinian Jew who was an eyewitness of the events of Christ's life, for he displays knowledge of Jewish customs (7:37-39; 18:28) and of the land of Palestine (1:44, 46; 5:2), and he includes details of an eyewitness (2:6; 13:26; 21:8, 11). Eliminating the other disciples that belonged to the "inner circle" (because James had been martyred before this time, Acts 12:1-5, and because Peter is named in close association with the disciple whom Jesus loved (John 13:23-24; 20:2-10), one concludes that John was the author. Whether this was the apostle John or a different John (the Elder) is discussed in the Introduction to 1 John.
John the apostle was the son of Zebedee and Salome and was the younger brother of James. He was a Galilean who apparently came from a fairly well-to-do home (Mark 15:40-41). Though often painted centuries later as effeminate, his real character was such that he was known as a "Son of Thunder" (Mark 3:17). He played a leading role in the work of the early church in Jerusalem (Acts 3:1; 8:14; Gal. 2:9). Later he went to Ephesus and for an unknown reason was exiled to the island of Patmos (Rev 1:9).
Distinctive Approach This is the most theological of the Four Gospels. It deals with the nature and person of Christ and the meaning of faith in Him. John's presentation of Christ as the divine Son of God is seen in the titles given Him in the book: "the Word was God" (1:1), "the Lamb of God" (1:29), "the Messiah" (1:41), "the Son of God" and "the King of Israel" (1:49), the "Savior of the world" (4:42), "Lord and . . . God" (20:28). His deity is also asserted in the series of "I am . . ." claims (6:35; 8:12; 10:7, 9, 11, 14; 11:25; 14:6; 15:1, 5). In other "I am" statements Christ made implicit and explicit claim to be the I AM--Yahweh of the Old Testament (John 4:24, 26; 8:24, 28, 58; 13:19). These are the strongest claims to deity that Jesus could have made.
The structure and style of the gospel are different from those of the synoptics. It contains no parables, only seven miracles (five of which are not recorded elsewhere), and many personal interviews. The author emphasizes the physical actuality of Jesus' hunger, thirst, weariness, pain, and death as a defense against the Gnostic denial of Jesus' true human nature.
Date Though the gospel of John used to be dated by some extreme critics as being written in the middle of the second century, the discovery of the Rylands papyrus fragment (a few verses from John 18 dated about A.D. 135) forced an earlier date. Several decades would have been required between the original writing of the gospel and its being copied and circulated as far as the Egyptian hinterland where the fragment was found. The gospel was apparently being circulated between 89 and 90, though it may have been written from Ephesus earlier (a pre-70 date has been suggested on the basis of 5:2, which may indicate that Jerusalem had not yet been destroyed, but this is far from conclusive). Discoveries at Qumran have attested to the genuineness of the Jewish background and thought patterns seen in the book.
Contents John's statement of purpose is clearly spelled out in 20:30-31. The gospel is sometimes called The Book of the Seven Signs, since the author chose seven sign-miracles to reveal the person and mission of Jesus: (1) the turning of water into wine (2:1-11); (2) the cure of the royal official's son (4:46-54); (3) the cure of the paralytic (5:1-18); (4) the feeding of the multitude (6:6-13); (5) the walking on the water (6:16-21); (6) the giving of sight to the blind (9:1-7); and (7) the raising of Lazarus (11:1-45). Other important themes in the book include the Holy Spirit (14:26; 15:26; 16:7-14), Satan and the world (8:44; 12:31; 17:15), the Word (1:1-14), and the new birth (3:1-12).
I INCARNATION OF THE SON OF GOD, 1:1-18
(John 1:1 NKJV) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
Vs. 1:1 In the beginning. Before time began, Christ was already in existence with God. That is what is meant by the term "the pre-existent Christ." See Gen. 1:1 and 1 John 1:1. Word (Gk., logos). Logos means "word, thought, concept, and the expressions thereof." In the OT the concept conveyed activity and revelation, and the word or wisdom of God is often personified (Ps. 33:6; Prov. 8). In the Targums (Aramaic paraphrases of the OT) it was a designation of God. To the Greek mind it expressed the ideas of reason and creative control. Revelation is the keynote idea in the logos concept. Here it is applied to Jesus, who is all that God is and the expression of Him (1:1, 14). In this verse the Word (Christ) is said to be with God (i.e., in communion with and yet distinct from God) and to be God (I.e., identical in essence with God).
(John 1:2 NKJV) He was in the beginning with God.
(John 1:3 NKJV) All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.
John 1:3: Vs. 1:3 Through him all things were made. Christ was active in the work of creation (cf. Col. 1:16).
(John 1:4 NKJV) In Him was life, and the life was the light of men.
John 1:4: Vs. 1:4 life . . . light. These are two words especially associated with John (8:12; 9:5; 11:25; 14:6). "Light" in John implies revelation that discloses the "life" that is in Christ and brings into judgment those who refuse it (John 3:19). "Life" denotes salvation and deliverance, based on Christ's atonement. the darkness has not understood it. The darkness did not overcome the light.
(John 1:5 NKJV) And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.
ANGER
(Eph 4:26 NKJV) "Be angry, and do not sin": do not let the sun go down on your wrath, (Eph 4:27 NKJV) nor give place to the devil Eph 4:26: Vs. 4:26-27 There is an anger that is not sinful, but even this must not be allowed to stay and fester and give the devil an opportunity.
.
(Mat 28:19 NKJV) "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
Mat 28:19: Vs. 28:19 make disciples of all nations. This is the one command in the Commission. It is surrounded by three participles: go (lit., going), baptizing, and teaching (v. 20). The first participle ("going") may rightly be translated as a command ("go") as it is in 2:8. This is the missionary task of the church. in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Here is evidence for the trinity of God: one God (the name) who subsists in three Persons (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). Each of the three is distinguished from the others; each possesses all the divine attributes; yet the three are one. This is a mystery that no analogy can illustrate satisfactorily. The sun, sunlight, and the power of the sun may come close to a suitable illustration.
(Mat 28:19 KJV) Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
Mathew Henry Notes
Verses 16-20. This evangelist passes over other appearances of Christ, recorded by Luke and John, and hastens to the most solemn; one appointed before his death, and after his resurrection. All that see the Lord Jesus with an eye of faith will worship him. Yet the faith of the sincere may be very weak and wavering. But Christ gave such convincing proofs of his resurrection, as made their faith to triumph over doubts. He now solemnly commissioned the apostles and his ministers to go forth among all nations. The salvation they were to preach, is a common salvation; whoever will, let him come, and take the benefit; all are welcome to Christ Jesus. Christianity is the religion of a sinner who applies for salvation from deserved wrath and from sin; he applies to the mercy of the Father, through the atonement of the incarnate Son, and by the sanctification of the Holy Spirit, and gives up himself to be the worshipper and servant of God, as the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, three Persons but one God, in all his ordinances and commandments. Baptism is an outward sign of that inward washing, or sanctification of the Spirit, which seals and evidences the believer's justification. Let us examine ourselves, whether we really possess the inward and spiritual grace of a death unto sin, and a new birth unto righteousness, by which those who were the children of wrath become the children of God. Believers shall have the constant presence of their Lord always; all days, every day. There is no day, no hour of the day, in which our Lord Jesus is not present with his churches and with his ministers; if there were, in that day, that hour, they would be undone. The God of Israel, the Savior, is sometimes a God that hideth himself, but never a God at a distance. To these precious words Amen is added. Even so, Lord Jesus, be thou with us and all thy people; cause thy face to shine upon us, that thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations.
1 John 5:7 For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.
1 John 5:8 And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one.
Verses 6-8. We are inwardly and outwardly defiled; inwardly, by the power and pollution of sin in our nature. For our cleansing there is in and by Christ Jesus, the washing of regeneration and the renewing of the Holy Ghost. Some think that the two sacraments are here meant: baptism with water, as the outward sign of regeneration, and purifying from the pollution of sin by the Holy Spirit; and the Lord's supper, as the outward sign of the shedding Christ's blood, and the receiving him by faith for pardon and justification. Both these ways of cleansing were represented in the old ceremonial sacrifices and cleansings. This water and blood include all that is necessary to our salvation. By the water, our souls are washed and purified for heaven and the habitation of saints in light. By the blood, we are justified, reconciled, and presented righteous to God. By the blood, the curse of the law being satisfied, the purifying Spirit is obtained for the internal cleansing of our natures. The water, as well as the blood, came out of the side of the sacrificed Redeemer. He loved the church, and gave himself for it, that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word; that he might present it to himself a glorious church, Ephesians 5:25-27. This was done in and by the Spirit of God, according to the Savior’s declaration. He is the Spirit of God, and cannot lie. Three had borne witness to these doctrines concerning the person and the salvation of Christ. The Father, repeatedly, by a voice from heaven declared that Jesus was his beloved Son. The Word declared that He and the Father were One, and that whoever had seen him had seen the Father. And the Holy Ghost, who descended from heaven and rested on Christ at his baptism; who had borne witness to Him by all the prophets; and gave testimony to his resurrection and mediatorial office, by the gift of miraculous powers to the apostles. But whether this passage be cited or not, the doctrine of the Trinity in Unity stands equally firm and certain. To the doctrine taught by the apostles, respecting the person and salvation of Christ, there were three testimonies. 1. The Holy Spirit. We come into the world with a corrupt, carnal disposition, which is enmity to God. This being done away by the regeneration and new-creating of souls by the Holy Spirit, is a testimony to the Savior. 2. The water: this sets forth the Savior’s purity and purifying power. The actual and active purity and holiness of his disciples are represented by baptism. 3. The blood which he shed: and this was our ransom, this testifies for Jesus Christ; it sealed up and finished the sacrifices of the Old Testament. The benefits procured by his blood, prove that he is the Savior of the world. No wonder if he that rejects this evidence is judged a blasphemer of the Spirit of God. These three witnesses are for one and the same purpose; they agree in one and the same thing.
1 John 5:6 This is He who came by water and blood; Jesus Christ; not only by water, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit who bears witness, because the Spirit is truth.
1 John 5:7 For there are three that bear witness in heaven: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one.
1 John 5:8 And there are three that bear witness on earth: the Spirit, the water, and the blood; and these three agree as one.
Vs. 5:6 by water and blood. The water refers to the inauguration of Christ's earthly ministry at His baptism by John (Mark 1:9-11); the blood refers to the close of His earthly life at His crucifixion. Jesus proved Himself to be the Christ (Messiah) at His baptism and by pouring out His soul to death. not . . . by water only, but by water and blood. This counters the teaching of Cerinthus, who said that the divine Christ left Jesus before His crucifixion.
(Acts 2:38 KJV) Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
(Acts 2:39 KJV) For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.
Vs. 2:38 Repent. To change one's mind; specifically, here, about Jesus of Nazareth, and to acknowledge Him as Lord (= God) and Christ (= Messiah). Such repentance brings salvation. There is also a repentance needed in the Christian life in relation to specific sins (2 Cor. 7:9; Rev. 2:5) and a repentance that has nothing to do with salvation (Matt. 21:28-30). be baptized . . . for the forgiveness of your sins. On baptism, see note on Matt. 3:11. Water baptism is the outward sign of repentance and forgiveness of sins. Forgiveness is through faith in Christ, not through the act of baptism (for may here mean "because of," as in Matt. 12:41). the gift of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is a gift to all who believe, not a reward to some.
John: The apostle and evangelist, John, seems to have been the youngest of the twelve. He was especially favoured with our Lord's regard and confidence, so as to be spoken of as the disciple whom Jesus loved. He was very sincerely attached to his Master. He exercised his ministry at Jerusalem with much success, and outlived the destruction of that city, agreeably to Christ's prediction, vs. 21:22. History relates that after the death of Christ's mother, John resided chiefly at Ephesus. Towards the close of Domitian's reign he was banished to the isle of Patmos, where he wrote his Revelation. On the accession of Nerva, he was set at liberty, and returned to Ephesus, where it is thought he wrote his Gospel and Epistles, about A. D. 97, and died soon after. The design of this Gospel appears to be to convey to the Christian world, just notions of the real nature, office, and character of that Divine Teacher, who came to instruct and to redeem mankind. For this purpose, John was directed to select for his narrative, those passages of our Savior’s life, which most clearly displayed his Divine power and authority; and those of his discourses, in which he spake most plainly of his own nature, and of the power of his death, as an atonement for the sins of the world. By omitting, or only briefly mentioning, the events recorded by the other evangelists, John gave testimony that their narratives are true, and left room for the doctrinal statements already mentioned, and for particulars omitted in the other Gospels, many of which are exceedingly important.
John 1: (v. 1-5) The Divinity of Christ.
(John 1:1 KJV) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
John 1:1: Verses 1-5. The plainest reason why the Son of God is called the Word, seems to be, that as our words explain our minds to others, so was the Son of God sent in order to reveal his Father's mind to the world. What the evangelist says of Christ proves that he is God. He asserts, His existence in the beginning; His coexistence with the Father. The Word was with God. All things were made by him, and not as an instrument. Without him was not any thing made that was made, from the highest angel to the meanest worm. This shows how well qualified he was for the work of our redemption and salvation. The light of reason, as well as the life of sense, is derived from him, and depends upon him. This eternal Word, this true Light shines, but the darkness comprehends it not. Let us pray without ceasing, that our eyes may be opened to behold this Light, that we may walk in it; and thus be made wise unto salvation, by faith in Jesus Christ.
(John 1:2 KJV) The same was in the beginning with God.
(John 1:3 KJV) All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
(John 1:4 KJV) In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
(John 1:5 KJV) And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.
His Divine and human nature
(John 1:6 KJV) There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.
John 1:6: Verses 6-14. John the Baptist came to bear witness concerning Jesus. Nothing more fully shows the darkness of men's minds, than that when the Light had appeared, there needed a witness to call attention to it. Christ was the true Light; that great Light which deserves to be called so. By his Spirit and grace he enlightens all that are enlightened to salvation; and those that are not enlightened by him, perish in darkness. Christ was in the world when he took our nature upon him, and dwelt among us. The Son of the Highest was here in this lower world. He was in the world, but not of it. He came to save a lost world, because it was a world of his own making. Yet the world knew him not. When he comes as a Judge, the world shall know him. Many say that they are Christ's own, yet do not receive him, because they will not part with their sins, nor have him to reign over them. All the children of God are born again. This new birth is through the word of God as the means, 1 Peter 1:23, and by the Spirit of God as the Author. By his Divine presence Christ always was in the world. But now that the fulness of time was come, he was, after another manner, God manifested in the flesh. But observe the beams of his Divine glory, which darted through this veil of flesh. Men discover their weaknesses to those most familiar with them, but it was not so with Christ; those most intimate with him saw most of his glory. Although he was in the form of a servant, as to outward circumstances, yet, in respect of graces, his form was like the Son of God His Divine glory appeared in the holiness of his doctrine, and in his miracles. He was full of grace, fully acceptable to his Father, therefore qualified to plead for us; and full of truth, fully aware of the things he was to reveal.
John
Authorship The writer of this gospel is identified in the book only as "the disciple whom Jesus loved" (21:20, 24). He obviously was a Palestinian Jew who was an eyewitness of the events of Christ's life, for he displays knowledge of Jewish customs (7:37-39; 18:28) and of the land of Palestine (1:44, 46; 5:2), and he includes details of an eyewitness (2:6; 13:26; 21:8, 11). Eliminating the other disciples that belonged to the "inner circle" (because James had been martyred before this time, Acts 12:1-5, and because Peter is named in close association with the disciple whom Jesus loved (John 13:23-24; 20:2-10), one concludes that John was the author. Whether this was the apostle John or a different John (the Elder) is discussed in the Introduction to 1 John.
John the apostle was the son of Zebedee and Salome and was the younger brother of James. He was a Galilean who apparently came from a fairly well-to-do home (Mark 15:40-41). Though often painted centuries later as effeminate, his real character was such that he was known as a "Son of Thunder" (Mark 3:17). He played a leading role in the work of the early church in Jerusalem (Acts 3:1; 8:14; Gal. 2:9). Later he went to Ephesus and for an unknown reason was exiled to the island of Patmos (Rev 1:9).
Distinctive Approach This is the most theological of the Four Gospels. It deals with the nature and person of Christ and the meaning of faith in Him. John's presentation of Christ as the divine Son of God is seen in the titles given Him in the book: "the Word was God" (1:1), "the Lamb of God" (1:29), "the Messiah" (1:41), "the Son of God" and "the King of Israel" (1:49), the "Savior of the world" (4:42), "Lord and . . . God" (20:28). His deity is also asserted in the series of "I am . . ." claims (6:35; 8:12; 10:7, 9, 11, 14; 11:25; 14:6; 15:1, 5). In other "I am" statements Christ made implicit and explicit claim to be the I AM--Yahweh of the Old Testament (John 4:24, 26; 8:24, 28, 58; 13:19). These are the strongest claims to deity that Jesus could have made.
The structure and style of the gospel are different from those of the synoptics. It contains no parables, only seven miracles (five of which are not recorded elsewhere), and many personal interviews. The author emphasizes the physical actuality of Jesus' hunger, thirst, weariness, pain, and death as a defense against the Gnostic denial of Jesus' true human nature.
Date Though the gospel of John used to be dated by some extreme critics as being written in the middle of the second century, the discovery of the Rylands papyrus fragment (a few verses from John 18 dated about A.D. 135) forced an earlier date. Several decades would have been required between the original writing of the gospel and its being copied and circulated as far as the Egyptian hinterland where the fragment was found. The gospel was apparently being circulated between 89 and 90, though it may have been written from Ephesus earlier (a pre-70 date has been suggested on the basis of 5:2, which may indicate that Jerusalem had not yet been destroyed, but this is far from conclusive). Discoveries at Qumran have attested to the genuineness of the Jewish background and thought patterns seen in the book.
Contents John's statement of purpose is clearly spelled out in 20:30-31. The gospel is sometimes called The Book of the Seven Signs, since the author chose seven sign-miracles to reveal the person and mission of Jesus: (1) the turning of water into wine (2:1-11); (2) the cure of the royal official's son (4:46-54); (3) the cure of the paralytic (5:1-18); (4) the feeding of the multitude (6:6-13); (5) the walking on the water (6:16-21); (6) the giving of sight to the blind (9:1-7); and (7) the raising of Lazarus (11:1-45). Other important themes in the book include the Holy Spirit (14:26; 15:26; 16:7-14), Satan and the world (8:44; 12:31; 17:15), the Word (1:1-14), and the new birth (3:1-12).
I INCARNATION OF THE SON OF GOD, 1:1-18
(John 1:1 NKJV) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
Vs. 1:1 In the beginning. Before time began, Christ was already in existence with God. That is what is meant by the term "the pre-existent Christ." See Gen. 1:1 and 1 John 1:1. Word (Gk., logos). Logos means "word, thought, concept, and the expressions thereof." In the OT the concept conveyed activity and revelation, and the word or wisdom of God is often personified (Ps. 33:6; Prov. 8). In the Targums (Aramaic paraphrases of the OT) it was a designation of God. To the Greek mind it expressed the ideas of reason and creative control. Revelation is the keynote idea in the logos concept. Here it is applied to Jesus, who is all that God is and the expression of Him (1:1, 14). In this verse the Word (Christ) is said to be with God (i.e., in communion with and yet distinct from God) and to be God (I.e., identical in essence with God).
(John 1:2 NKJV) He was in the beginning with God.
(John 1:3 NKJV) All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.
John 1:3: Vs. 1:3 Through him all things were made. Christ was active in the work of creation (cf. Col. 1:16).
(John 1:4 NKJV) In Him was life, and the life was the light of men.
John 1:4: Vs. 1:4 life . . . light. These are two words especially associated with John (8:12; 9:5; 11:25; 14:6). "Light" in John implies revelation that discloses the "life" that is in Christ and brings into judgment those who refuse it (John 3:19). "Life" denotes salvation and deliverance, based on Christ's atonement. the darkness has not understood it. The darkness did not overcome the light.
(John 1:5 NKJV) And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.
ANGER
(Eph 4:26 NKJV) "Be angry, and do not sin": do not let the sun go down on your wrath, (Eph 4:27 NKJV) nor give place to the devil Eph 4:26: Vs. 4:26-27 There is an anger that is not sinful, but even this must not be allowed to stay and fester and give the devil an opportunity.
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ROYAL PRIESTHOOD
ROYAL PRIESTHOOD
But ye are an elect race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, that ye may show forth the Excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light:
1 Peter 2:1 through 1 Peter 2:10 (ASV) 1 Putting away therefore all wickedness, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, 2 as newborn babes, long for the spiritual milk which is without guile, that ye may grow thereby unto salvation; 3 if ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious: 4 unto whom coming, a living stone, rejected indeed of men, but with God elect, precious, 5 ye also, as living stones, are built up a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 6 Because it is contained in scripture, Behold, I lay in Zion a chief corner stone, elect, precious:
And he that believeth on him shall not be put to shame.
7 For you therefore that believe is the preciousness: but for such as disbelieve, The stone which the builders rejected, The same was made the head of the corner; 8 and, A stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence;
For they stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed. 9 But ye are an elect race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, that ye may show forth the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light: 10 who in time past were no people, but now are the people of God: who had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
1 Peter 2:1 through 1 Peter 2:10 (KJV) 1 Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, 2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: 3 If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
4 To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, 5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. 6 also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. 7 Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, 8 And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed. 9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light: 10 Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
1 Peter 2:1 through 1 Peter 2:11 (NIV) 1 Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. 2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, 3 now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.
4 As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him—5 you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 6 For in Scripture it says:
“See, I lay a stone in Zion,
a chosen and precious cornerstone,
and the one who trusts in him
will never be put to shame.”
But ye are an elect race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, that ye may show forth the Excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light:
1 Peter 2:1 through 1 Peter 2:10 (ASV) 1 Putting away therefore all wickedness, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, 2 as newborn babes, long for the spiritual milk which is without guile, that ye may grow thereby unto salvation; 3 if ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious: 4 unto whom coming, a living stone, rejected indeed of men, but with God elect, precious, 5 ye also, as living stones, are built up a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 6 Because it is contained in scripture, Behold, I lay in Zion a chief corner stone, elect, precious:
And he that believeth on him shall not be put to shame.
7 For you therefore that believe is the preciousness: but for such as disbelieve, The stone which the builders rejected, The same was made the head of the corner; 8 and, A stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence;
For they stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed. 9 But ye are an elect race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, that ye may show forth the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light: 10 who in time past were no people, but now are the people of God: who had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
1 Peter 2:1 through 1 Peter 2:10 (KJV) 1 Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, 2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: 3 If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
4 To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, 5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. 6 also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. 7 Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, 8 And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed. 9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light: 10 Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
1 Peter 2:1 through 1 Peter 2:11 (NIV) 1 Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. 2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, 3 now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.
4 As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him—5 you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 6 For in Scripture it says:
“See, I lay a stone in Zion,
a chosen and precious cornerstone,
and the one who trusts in him
will never be put to shame.”
7 Now to you who believe, this stone
is precious. But to those who do not believe,
“The stone the builders rejected
has become the capstone, “
8 and, “A stone that causes men to stumble
and a rock that makes them fall.”
They stumble because they disobey the message—which is also what they were destined for. 9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
11 Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul.
“The stone the builders rejected
has become the capstone, “
8 and, “A stone that causes men to stumble
and a rock that makes them fall.”
They stumble because they disobey the message—which is also what they were destined for. 9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
11 Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul.
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