Comments for August 21

v.30 (following on from v.25) demonstrates how that throughout this chapter which covers some considerable time, there was nothing to report except the ever increasing corruption of the ways of the people because of the examples set by their kings. It is into this all time low of Israel's existence that God sends Elijah. It seems that the work of a prophet was never easy.

v.4 - This is exactly the same curse as that given to Jeroboam in ch.14:11, and of Ahab in 21:24, and it also represents the fate of Jezebel, predicted in 21:23, 2Kings 9:10. To be eaten by dogs is a fate of those too poor to arrange a burial or those without friends or relatives to do it, so quite a serious dishonour to a person of power. Here is God's demonstration that He is in control.

Ahab is presented as the worst king up to this point. In searching through the historical record we find no mention of Baal worship from the time when Gideon threw down the altar of Baal (Judges 6:25-28) and the reign of Ahab. So his reign brought in a terrible retrograde move.

:12 We should not assume that Zimri acted because he wanted to fulfil the word of God to Jehu. Rather God, knowing the end from the beginning, knew the man and how things would work out. Zimri fulfilled his own evil will and in so doing fulfilled the words of the Lord to Jehu. That does not justify Zimri's actions.

16:2 We may think of the northern kingdom as being  simply a rebellion against the house of David. However it was 'of God' We see a similar comment (1Kin 14:7)

V.25 Was worse because he was the first to strengthen his position with foreign alliances. Up till his day Israel had kept aloof from her neighbours, but Omri sought an alliance with his powerful neighbour Tyre, and cemented such an alliance by the marriage of his son, Ahab, with the Tyrian princess Jezebel. 

"So Tibni died, and Omri reigned." (1Kin 16:22).  This short sentence tells us that even in a wicked country like the northern part of Israel, you can't have two kings reigning.  There's a useful lesson for us, here.  We cannot serve two masters, and  "A double minded man is unstable in all his ways." (James 1:8).

V.1 This Jehu is not to be confused with the Jehu of 1Kin 19:16,17.  This Jehu was a prophet sent against Baasha; the other one was Yahweh's revenger on the house of Ahab. 

V.4 However, there are some similarities surrounding the time of both men.  It was forecast that both Baasha and Jezebel would suffer the same kind of death (2Kin 9:35-37). 

Vs.9,10,12 It is interesting that as Jehu confronted Jezebel, she cited the example of Zimri the usurper (2Kin 9:31).

V.8 When we compare this verse with 1Kin 15:33, we see that Baasha reigned for a total of twenty three years. Elah, his son must have reigned for less than two years, even though it says that he was king for two years, when we put this with V.10 we can soon see that it was just short of two years. He came to the throne during the 26th year of Asa, and was killed during the 27th year of Asa's reign.

V.34 After the destruction of Jericho, Joshua made a curse on anyone who would re-build the city (Josh 7:26).  In Ahab's time, Hiel re-built Jericho and lost two sons according to Joshua's curse.

Men of Yahweh who made blessings and curses had them honoured by Yahweh.  We, as people of Yahweh in Christ, are asked not to pronounce doom on anyone (Rom 11:14).  Rather we are to follow the example of the Lord Jesus and not rail against injustice (Isa 42:3;53:7; Matt 5:39).  Judgement will come later by the hand of Yahweh (Rom 12:19).

16:6  A repeated word used to speak of the death of the king is that he ‘slept’ thus demonstrating that resurrection was an integral part of the teaching in Old Testament times.

Zimri's reign lasted but seven days (V15) but, in those seven days he was able to succeed in executing the judgement pronounced by the prophet Jehu against the house of Baasha (V.2-3) in wiping out the whole house of Baasha. (V.12)

16:15 Israel, in the north, was evil, ruled by evil kings. This evil was compounded by instability. Zimri reigned only one week.

Vs.17,18 Tirzah had been the capital city of the Northern Kingdom since Jeroboam.  Omri attacked Tirzah and, with the help of Zimri, it was destroyed. 

V.24 After the destruction of Tirzah, Samaria became the new capital of Israel. Samaria remained the capital of Israel until Assyria laid siege to it in 723 BC, which lasted for three years. After that, many of Israel's tribes were removed by the Assyrians and sent into captivity. 

16:30-33          There probably is not a greater or more extensive condemnation of any king of Israel or Judah than this one of Ahab seen here.

V.16 Sometimes the people's names, in the Bible, do not match their characters. For example, Zimri means praiseworthy, while Omri means servant of Yahweh. On the other hand, Jehu fits because it means Yahweh is He (v.1).

16:8 In giving a year in the reign of Asa when Elah began to reign we are given a point of reference when we seek to sort out the relationship between the reigns of the kings of Judah and Israel.

Vs.3,4 Baasha replaced Jeroboam for his sins.  But, Baasha sinned just like Jeroboam, and, therefore, he would be punished just like Jeroboam (1Kin 14:11). 

Vs.9,10 Jezebel compares Jehu, Yahweh’s avenger of the house of Ahab, to Zimri (2Kin 9:21). Jehu, the son of Hanani, declared Yahweh's punishment against Baasha via the hand of Zimri (v.16).  Jehu, the son of Nimshi, was the instrument of Yahweh’s punishment against the house of Ahab (2Kin 9:7).

The house of Ahab would suffer the same fate as the houses of Jeroboam and Baasha (2Kin 9:9). Anyone from the house of Baasha, like that of Jeroboam, who lived in the city, would be eaten by dogs (v.4; 1Kin 14:11). Of the household of Ahab, Jezebel, who lived in the city (Jezreel), would suffer the same fate (2Kin 9:10,35,36).  

V.29 And so began Ahab’s 22-year reign, from 919 to 897 BC. He had flashes of obedience to Yahweh, but was highly influenced by his ambitious Zidonian princess.  

Ahab did not learn by Solomon’s experience of taking strange wives, which turned him from worshipping Yahweh (1Kin 11:1). Notice that one of those strange women was a Zidonian, like Jezebel.

Likewise, scripture tells us that marrying a spouse who is not in the Truth can be disastrous to one’s spiritual health, and exhorts us not to do it (Prov 22:14,33; 2Cor 6:14).

There are several statements in this chapter which show that God works behind the scenes in our lives. Baasha's ascension to the throne in 1Kin 16:2 seems obviously God's work because God speaks directly to Baasha by a prophet. Yet at the time Baasha may have had no idea he was being influenced by God (15:27-30). Also the events in v18-19 appear on the surface to be entirely Zimri's own actions, until we read that they happened "because of the sins which he had committed". So the Bible means us to see that God was at work in these events, conspiring for them to end in Zimri's destruction. Although this chapter is mostly negative, we can still gain instruction on how God works through these examples in our own lives for good.

16:34 The injunction about rebuilding Bethel was given by Joshua in Josh 6:26. So Hiel’s actions were in direct rebellion against the words of God through Joshua.

1Kin 16:31 - "Jezebel" (348) according to Strong's means "chaste" but according to Brown-Driver-Briggs means "unchaste, Baal exalts, Baal is husband to". Jezebel's father "Ethbaal" (856) means "with Baal".

16:15 Gibbethon was part of the inheritance of Dan – Josh 19:44 and was one of the cities of the Levites – Josh 21:23. So to say it ‘Belongeth to the Philistines’ gives an indication of the sorry state of the Northern kingdom. The Philistines had taken control of a city that belonged to the tribe of Dan and by implication the priests were no longer there teaching the people.

v7 Note "because he killed them" (namely Jeroboam's family) in the NKJV, is rendered in the AV "because he killed him". namely Jeroboam. The AV seems more contextually accurate because though Baasha didn't kill Jeroboam, in effect he did, because he killed his heirs (see 1Kin 15:29). Thus the text is telling us that Baasha specifically went about cutting off the whole line of Jeroboam; a mentality God was not pleased about.

v23: the other 6 years were in Samaria

16:21  The nation had been split into Judah and Israel for some time now. And now the northern kingdom is divided. Division genders further division. We should realise that in our own lives.

16:9    The description of the life style of Elah shows the depths to which the kings of Israel had sunk. He clearly did not take heed to the counsel given to king Lemuel – Prov 31:4

What do you think of when you read the place name "Samaria"?

Q) Omri bought Samaria and we can see from v29 that he made it his capital city. It remained so for the rest of the history of the kings of Israel. Also he was buried there (v28). What was so special about this place, and how did it rise to prominence so suddenly?

A) The answer can be found by looking at the first time Samaria is mentioned in the Bible. 1Kin 13:32 tells us that Samaria was full of shrines and high places for idol worship. Yet at the time of chapter 13 Samaria hadn't even been named! (remember, it was Omri who named it, see v24). This tells us that, even at the time of Jeroboam, the area later called Samaria was know for its idolatry. This is why Omri chose it, and this is why, when we read on, Ahab built a temple to Baal there (v31-33).

So as we read on in the history of Israel, whenever we see the name "Samaria", we will remember that it was the capital of Israel, chosen specifically for its abundant idol worship, which became the focus of Baal worship in all of Israel.

16:18-19        One might think that Zimri committed suicide rather than lose face. That might be. However it was “of God” as verse :19 indicates.

16:2        Jehu was not created out of the dust like Adam. However God says that he was “raised out of the dust”. In so speaking  Jehu was reminded that he, though raised to in status, was of no more consequence than any man. His origin was the dust. We do well to remember our origins. No matter how “important” we become we are all children of the dust and will, eventually, return to dust. It is only through an association with the risen Jesus can we expect true exaltation.

16:2  There is only one King of the kingdom of God – Yahweh. He appoints men to be kings – like David. So here we see that Baasha is called a “prince” <5057>- the word for “king” is a different word <4428>

16:15    It is incredibly difficult to draw time lines which relate the kings of Judah to the kings of Judah. However here we have one little detail which will help to draw the two lines together. Whilst Zimri only reigned 7 days we can see where his reign fits in the kings of Judah.

16:16   That the people made Omri king is a clear indication that the people were looking for a military leader for that is what he was.

16:31    One presumes that Ahab thought marrying the daughter of the king of Zidon was a wise political move – but spiritually, it was a disaster.

16:29 Spare a though for the good king Asa. He had already been struggling with a godless kingdom in the north and then with the arrival of Ahab as king things got a whole lot worse! This must have impacted on Asa as a king trying to  rule in a godly manner.

16:2-3 There is a principle. God is able to elevate and individual or abase them- Dan 4:37 – something that Baasha did not seem to realise. Once elevated he became proud. So was abased. The status that God gave him brought responsibilities – to listen to God’s word – something he did not do. We are in a similar position We have been elevated in Christ. Do we live up to the responsibilities that brings?

16:2In exalting Baasha God was giving him an opportunity to change his ways and start to serve Him. How often God does this only to find that the one so blessed disregarded what is offered. We who are “in Christ” have been elevated but do we live up to the standards that we have been called to or simply carry on with the lifestyle that we used to keep?

16:8-34  Whilst Asa reigned as a good king in Jerusalem for a god number of years with a degree of peace and prosperity things in the north were very different with one evil king after another reigning and wars. One wonders how many in both Israel and Judah reflected on the different fortunes of the two kingdoms. Did any wonder whether God was blessing on kingdom and not the other?

16:2 Another king (Jeroboam) – 14:7 – had been exalted. Both he and Baasha had no regard for the way that God exalted hem. Rather they focussed on their own desires rather than God’s.

16:2 We are all responsible for our own actions. However Jehu is reproved because his actions caused others to sin. We should appreciate that the way in which we behave impacts on the lives of those around us, especially if we are in a position of responsibility.

v.7 I suppose we tend to assume that the word of the Lord came instantly. This is not the case, and this is clearly not an isolated incident of the patient waiting required for God to give His answer. It is presented as a general principle and a requirement of the believer - Psalm 27:14 Isa.28:16 Hab.2:3

v.3 - This should be our constant desire. This maybe picks up the advice of ch.6:3?

42:2 One wonders why the people felt the need for Jeremiah to pray for them. Could they not pray themselves or did they think that the prayer of a prophet was more effective than a prayer offered by a common person.

:18 Even though the people want Jeremiah to pray for them - as if they had repented - they were still to suffer the judgement of Deuteronomy 28:37 'astonishment' - this indicates that the desire for Jeremiah to pray for them was not a mark of true repentance.

42:2 Continuing the theme of Jeremiah praying for the people. He had been told three time (Jer 7:16, 11:14, 14:11) not to pray for the people already so it is clear that he had been in the habit of praying for the people. However was there any point in praying for a people who did not want to obey God.

V.7 The delay must have severely tested the faith of the Jews. As each day went by they would have become more and more filled with fear lest the Babylonians swoop down upon them. They had not learned the lesson that Moses had tried to teach the nation when he led them from Egypt, when God declared " Stand still and see the Salvation of Yahweh" as day followed day, they became more and more impatient with the still, silent prophet, who remained apart from the people, awaiting the answer of God.

In this chapter, all the people come to Jeremiah and ask him to pray for guidance (v2). They declare how they are willing to take any answer, and do exactly what God requires of them (5-6).

It sounds very similar to our prayers, doesn't it? The ones we pray when we need or want something. I dare say that our motives are often the same as these people too. They wanted to go to Egypt, and only Egypt. They wanted to feel safe. They wanted to be well fed (v14). Nothing wrong with that surely?

So why ask God then? If there was nothing wrong with going to Egypt, why did they pray to God for guidance, rather than just going? Surely if something's right then you just do it! They knew that it was wrong to go to Egypt. They knew God had said "you will never go back there" (Deut 17:16). They were doing the thing that young children do, asking a second or third time just in case the answer would be different "this time". How often are our prayers for guidance just thinly disguised demands for what we want? How often do our prayers come from our deceitful heart, trying to feel justified in going a way we know to be wrong?

Sometimes we ought to look into the word of God for our answers, rather than spending too much time in wordy requests for guidance. Prayers can make us feel very pious, but we can find ourselves justifying just about anything by claiming "I made the decision prayerfully" or "It must be God's will". David said "thy word is a light to my path". It is to the word that we should go for our guidance. It is here that God has already written an answer to our every prayer.

Vs.2,3 Prayer is an integral part of a relationship with Yahweh (Rom 12:12; Phil 4:6;1Thess 5:17;1Tim 2:8; James 5:16).  However, prayer is of none effect if hearts are not genuine, as Yahweh reads the innermost thoughts of man (1Sam 16:7; Matt 6:8). 

Here, the remnant of Judah asked Jeremiah to pray to Yahweh for guidance for them.  But it was obvious that their hearts were not true (vs.20,21).  They had already made up their minds before asking for guidance, and were really seeking approval.  Thus, what Jeremiah said on another occasion rings true (Jer 17:9).  

We are encouraged to pray to Yahweh often (1Thess 5:17). But, must never attempt to use Yahweh as a rubber stamp. If we are genuine, we will leave all results to His will.  Jesus was prepared to do this, in His most anxious hour, and so should we (Matt 26:42).

TEN DAYS LATER
 
Sometimes praying to God is like having a one-way conversation.  We talk, we pray, we ask, but never seem to hear back.  At those times we may begin to wonder whether God is really listening.  Why can't it be like the old days when God answered straight away through his prophets, and people knew they would get an answer?
 
Jeremiah was one such prophet.  When he prayed, God answered.  Jeremiah was the voice that made speaking to God a two way conversation.  So the people asked Jeremiah to pray to the LORD for them.  They said, "Pray that the LORD your God will tell us where we should go and what we should do." (Jer 42:3)  So Jeremiah agreed and prayed to the LORD.  Then the record continues by saying, "Ten days later the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah." (v.7)  No, it was not always straight away.  In this case it took ten days before the LORD answered Jeremiah's prayer.
 
At other times and with people like Elijah, Daniel and Peter, the answers came even as they were praying.  But sometimes answers take time.  Let's be sure that we wait patiently for God's reply without giving up and doing our own thing.  We can always be sure God has heard and that he will answer in his own good time.

The remnant of Judah asked God, through Jeremiah, to counsel them. “We will do whatever God tells us to,” they said. Poor Jeremiah! He boldly relayed God’s words to them, all the words recorded in Jer 42:9-22. He probably guessed what the people would say and do, but still he faithfully spoke God’s words.

42:3 Notice how the people are distanced, in their own mind, from God calling the ‘the Lord thy God’.

42:19-22‘go not to Egypt’ had been the warning of the prophet – Isa 31:1 – the people had asked Jeremiah to pray for them and now they are not willing to listen to the answer! How often are we like this? We are happy to do what God wants of us when it matches our own desires.

V.7 Yahweh could have answered Jeremiah right away if He wanted to do so. But, Yahweh often tests the faith and patience of His children.  We should be aware of these things in our lives: Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him (Psa 37:7).

V.21 We are encouraged to pray (Phil 4:6). And we should have the confidence that we shall receive an answer (James 1:6-8). However, that answer might not be the one expected or desired by us.  But, if we are faithful, we shall accept it because Our Heavenly Father knows what is best for us.  If we seek eternal life, and a place in the kingdom, then Yahweh will guide us to those goals, but only if we listen to Him (Luke 11:32).

The remnant of Judah wanted salvation.  Yahweh showed them the way to salvation.  However, they refused His guidance because it was not what they wanted to hear.  Let us not make the same mistake in our dealings with Yahweh as Judah.  If we do, we will not end up with eternal life or a place in the Kingdom

42:4-7 Notice how Jeremiah tries to get those to whom he is speaking to recognise God as ‘their God’ and not just the God of Jeremiah.

42:1   So the evil activities of Ishmael are thwarted. The one who engineered the deliverance – Johanan – asks Jeremiah to pray for the remnant.  Now a reduced remnant due to the activities of Ishmael.

42:2-3 Chapter 41 shows the chaos that the country had descended into. Some, it seems, appreciated that the problems were because of Godless leadership. Therefore they appeal to Jeremiah.

42:21   Jeremiah’s condemnation is very strong. He reproves the people for not doing “anything” that God had required of them. Such was their evil.  They were, as the New Testament puts it “sold under sin” Rom 7:14

42:7-12           Johanan had requested that Jeremiah speak on his behalf to God (verse :2-3) and now Jeremiah responds with encouraging words. In particular encouraging him not to fear the king of Babylon. Johanan had a choice – whether to fear the king of Babylon and try to work out his own salvation or to trust in Yahweh and trust in His salvation.  We have the same choice to make. Where do we place our confidence? 

A CHOICE

They were given two choices. When the Jews asked Jeremiah for the word of the LORD on what they were to do, they were given two options The first was to stay in Judah, probably against their better judgement, and to submit. Then they would in peace and prosperity.

The second option was to run away, where, Jeremiah told them, that they would never have peace, but would face war, famine, disaster and death.

Knowing that God always gives the right advice if we are able to trust Him enough, it seems completely logical that they should opt for the easy and comfortable lifestyle promised by God, rather than to choose more self inflicted punishment. But if we read further, we find that they ignored God's advice and inflicted more of His wrath on themselves.

How much like the people of Judah are we? Time and again through the pages of the Bible, God asks us to submit to Him. Over and over Jesus says we need to follow His commands. There are great rewards in doing so, but weeping, wailing and gnashing of teeth if we choose not to.

We face the same choice as the Jews did all those years ago. I am sure we all want the best, but are we prepared to follow the right way and actually make the right choices?

42:3,5            Notice whilst the men who have approached Jeremiah to ask him to pray to his God Jeremiah’s response is that he will pray to their God.  A problem Israel often had was that they did not identify with their God. Do we see God as distant or someone who is close to us?

42:2    Whilst the people have made request to Jeremiah to speak to God they were not faithful in their request. We see – 42:20-22 – that it was all a show. God can see into the hearts of men and women and no matter how faithful a man might appear God knows what is in that person’s heart.

42:1       Johanan the son of Kareah had been amongst those that were with Ishmael when Gedaliah was killed  2Kin 25:23, Jer 40:8. But now he has dissociated himself from Ishmael.

42:2-4  Jeremiah had been told on three occasions – Jer 7:16, 11:14, 14:11 – not to pray for the people.  But now the people  have made request to Jeremiah to pray on their behalf. So God heard the prayer of Jeremiah –42:9-22

OUTLINE OF JEREMIAH

PART TWO -- THE PROPHECIES TO JUDAH (JEREMIAH 2:1 to 45:5)

IV. The Present Fall Of Jerusalem (Jeremiah 34:1 to 45:5)

   D. Messages After The Fall (Jeremiah 40:1 to 44:30)

      3. Jer 42:1-22

         a. Jer 42:1-6 - The remnant consults Jeremiah:

            i.V1 - there is confusion in the MT and LXX over name; the names in the RSV harmonize with Jer 43:2

            ii. V2 - Jeremiah was asked to Pray to God on behalf of the remnant "Pray for us unto the LOrd thy God, even for all this remnant"

            iii. VS 2,3,5 the army officers of the uncaptured Jewish remnant didn't fully trust in or feel close to God and referred to God as "thy" God (i.e. Jeremiah's God); V4 Jeremiah tries to encourage the remnant officers referring to the Lord as "your" God; V4 Jeremiah would pray on behalf of the remnant holding nothing back; VS 5-6 the remnant officers invoked God's judgment and said they would obey the voice of the Lord whether it be good or evil (but they didn't obey the voice of the Lord Jer 43:7 and fled to Egypt); V6 the officers of the remnant disingenuously act faithful and trusting in God referring to "our" God (but we have their true attitude in Jer 43:2-4).

         b. Jer 42:7-22 - Jeremiah's message to the remnant of Judah:

            i. VS 7-12 if the Jews stayed in the land God would have them prosper; V7 God was silent until the 10th day and then His word came unto Jeremiah; V7,21 unfortunately the remnant was not patient (Psa 37:7) as Michael Parry notes in his 2009 comments; V11 do not be afraid of the king of Babylon for God would save and deliver the remnant (if they didn't go to Egypt), but the remnant fear did reprisal from Nebuchadnezzar.

            ii. VS 13-18 there would be no safety for the remnant in Egypt  and they were warned by God that doing so would mean extinction (chapter 42 ends with a warning not to go into Egypt VS 21-22); V14 they decided to go into the land of Egypt - after having asked for guidance from God they did what THEY wanted; V17 "Egypt<4714>" means 'double straights' - in what sense does this definition best apply to Egypt?

            iii. VS 19-21 Jeremiah expostulated with the men who had asked him to inquire of Yahweh; VS 19-21 God's answer demanded faith (the remnant lacked faith) and courage (the remnant had little courage) and they had no confidence that God would deliver them (the remnnant didn't trust in God V21; Jer 43:2-4); VS 20-21 the hearts of the remnant were not true but were deceitful (Jer 17:9) as Michael Parry notes in his 2004 comments; V21 The remnant didn't obey God (despite God's warnings Deut 17:16;Isa 31:1;Jer 43:7) but went into Egypt; V22 Jeremiah's message ended with a solemn condemnation.

42:19  Whilst the command not to go to Egypt related to seeing  support the injunction is found also – Deut 17:16 – in the instruction that kings should follow.

WHEN GOD SPEAKS

The people of Judah had probably discussed a lot of good reasons to head off into Egypt once the Babylonians had left them alone. But looking back on their decision in hindsight, we wonder why they chose to flee to Egypt when Jeremiah had made it perfectly clear that their place - their safe place - was in the land where God had put them. In the end they disobeyed God and lost their lives in the land of Egypt.

We might not always get direct revelations in the same way that the Jews heard directly from God through Jeremiah, but today we have God's word recorded for us in the Bible. There are instructions and principles for just about everything we might encounter through life.

Do we always take the word of God as our guide? Do we turn the other cheek? Do we absolutely refuse to set up idols in our hearts? Are our opinions on sexuality moulded by the world or by God? And we could go on...

It's up to us to obey when we have heard the word of God. Looking back at the Jews, we can see their loss in ignoring God. What about us? Are we like them? Do we do the same?
 

42:1-3 And now Johanan – mentioned in the previous chapter – seeks an assurance from Jeremiah as to how he and those with him should behave to obey God.

42:11-12 Yet again Yahweh promises that the Chaldeans will not harm those who fall to him. But His words were disregarded.

42:1-6 The nation, united in one respect. They wanted to ask Jeremiah to pray to God to find out what He wants them to do. This is despite God has already told them through Jeremiah to submit to the Chaldeans. They even go so far as to say that they will do whatever Yahweh wants whether it is good or evil. However the people were not willing to wait for a reply or to follow God’s words – see :19-21

Do we ever pray to God having already decided what we will do and are just looking for God to “rubber stamp” our request?

42:4 Jeremiah had experience of the double minded behaviour of the Jews in Jerusalem. However despite the way they had behaved in the past Jeremiah was still willing to pray for them.

How often do you use our experience of others as a basis for deciding what to do nor not to do when an opportunity arises?

It is all too easy to dismiss someone because in the past they have been unreliable

42:2 How often do we pray to God sincerely having already decided what the outcome should be, and then add “God willing” . We have an obligation to understand what might and what might not be in accord with His will before we ask Him in prayer. Father we must ensure that our prayer is never based on self-gratification in this life.

:9, 12, 14 present a threefold 'appeared' 'that in the mouth of two or three witnesses …' [Deuteronomy 19:15]. This powerful testimony to the resurrection of Jesus is developed [1 Corinthians 15:3-8]. We should not underestimate the power of these eye witness accounts. The fact that we are now 2,000 years on from the event does not make the testimony of eyewitnesses any less credible.

:15 In commanding the disciples to preach to 'every creature' we have the origins of the language [Colossians 1:23] where Paul informs us that the words of Jesus actually have been fulfilled. So, without wishing to say that we no longer need to preach, the work has been done. It is not as if our preaching is doing a work that the apostles did not do. They completed the job in their day and we are repeating the work, as far as we are able without the Spirit gifts.

Mark seems to go out of the way to emphasise in a small space that the risen Jesus 'appeared' (:9, 12, 14) that in the mouth of three witnesses ... (Deuteronomy 19:15)

The mourning of the disciples in v10 shows us that all the way through the teaching of Jesus, they hadn't understood his real message. They hadn't understood that he was going to die, and be raised again, to save them from their sins. They had taken his ministry as being an extension of the teaching of the law and the prophets, and as being an earthly ministry.

At his death a very necessary thing had happened. They had all sworn they would not forsake him, yet they all had. They were all condemned men and women. All their enthusiasm for the law, and their illusions of greatness during his rule, had been shattered. Their mourning for him was a mourning also for the cause that they had believed in so fervently, which was now lost to them. What was worse, they hadn't even stood up and fought for it.

Yet, these were now men and women who Christ could work with. They were humbled and destitute. His reappearance to them effected a magnificent change in them. They were as it were "re-born", having been through a great trial of faith. They had failed that trial, and were now ready to accept the saving name of Christ, and his forgiveness. This was the gospel that Jesus now asked them to preach

16:19 In saying that Jesus 'sat on the right hand of God' Mark is highlighting the fulfilment of Psa 110:1

V.17-18 As we read through the Acts we see these promises fulfilled. Power to expel demons. Acts 5:19  Ability to speak in new tongues. Acts 2  Ability to pick up serpents, that is (implied), to pick up venomous snakes without being physically harmed. Acts 28:3  The power to place hands on the sick, who will then recover. Acts 3:6  There is no record of any one drinking a deadly drink without being hurt; but you will note with this promise, the word "if" is used.

V.7 It is interesting that Mark states disciples and Peter (cf. Matt 28:7). After the Lord's promise, Peter was to deny him (Matt 26:32-35). Perhaps, the angel distinguished Peter in v.7 as a reflection of this.

Vs.1,3 The women came to the sepulchre to anoint the body of the Lord.  But they wondered who would roll the stone away from the entrance for them. 

The stone was large, flat, round, and heavy.  It ran on a track which had bumps on the ends of the opening to secure the stone from rolling away.  It would need the efforts of several men to roll the stone clear of the entrance.  The women would not be capable of doing this.  

16:12 The appearance to 'two of them' is the same incident as Luke 24:33. The appearance to 'the eleven'(Mark 16:13) is the same time as recorded in Luke 24:36 and John 20:19.

WONDERFUL WOMEN of FAITH

These women Mark 16:1 could do very little in the eyes of the world -

* They couldn't speak before the Sanhedrin in Jesus' defence

* They couldn't appeal to Pilate

* They couldn't stand against the crowds

* They couldn't overpower the Roman guards

BUT THEY DID WHAT THEY COULD -

* They stayed at the cross when the disciples had fled

* They followed Jesus' body to the tomb

* They prepared spices for his body

* They took advantage of what they could do for Christ, instead of what they couldn't do

THEREFORE - they were the first to witness the resurrection

16:7 In singling Peter out to be told about the resurrection as well as the disciples of which Peter was one indicates that Jesus saw Peter had a particular need. After all Jesus had seen Peter leave the trial weeping - Matt 26:75.

Every time we read the account of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection, we cannot help but be impressed with the exceptional love and loyalty that the women following him displayed. They were at Calvary when Jesus was put to death. They were in the garden when Jesus was buried, and now very early in the morning, they are there once again, in order to anoint the body. On more than one occasion we have it heard asked: Where were the eleven?

Vs.15,16 Jesus tells His disciples to preach the Gospel. The Lord's prescription, for salvation, is clear. The command to preach and the way of salvation have remained relevant throughout the ages.

Vs.17,18 The signs accompanying believers were relevant in the first century when Holy Spirit gifts were given to help spread the Gospel. During the first century the Scriptures were completed. Holy Spirit gifts then ceased because, with the finished Bible, signs were no longer necessary to promote the Gospel.

16:1-3  These details emphasise to us that beyond any shadow of a doubt the women did not expect Jesus to rise from the dead.

V.16 This verse leaves no doubt that belief (in the Gospel) and baptism are two essential elements of salvation.  Without them a person is condemned.

16:18 The taking up of serpents and not being hurt is seen to be fulfilled in the life of Paul – Acts 28:5.

Baptism (lesson 3 of 20 from "Outline of Basic Bible Teachings" by Wes Booker

I. Is it essential for salvation? Mark 16:15-16. meaning of word - "dip or plunge"

II. Verses on baptism:  A. John 3:3-5 - necessary to enter the kingdom  B. Acts 2:37-38 - repentance needed first  C. Acts 8:12 - knowledge  of the gospel is needed  D. Acts 8:36-39 - v.39: "when they came up out of the water" implies complete immersion  E. Acts 9:17-19 - Saul (Paul) baptised  F. Acts 10:44-48 - Gentiles first baptised  G. Acts 16:25-33 - compare v.31 and v.33  H. Acts 22:12-16 - wash away sins  I. Titus 3:4-7 - washing of regeneration (rebirth - NIV)  J. Gal 3:26-29 - Abraham's seed

III. What it symbolizes - death, burial, resurrection of Christ:  A. Rom 6:3-5  B. Col 2:10-13

IV. Wrested scriptures:  A. Matt 18:3-6 - note context: the need for childlike qualities  B. 1Cor 1:17 - note context: it's irrelevant whether Paul was baptiser or someone else did the baptising

16:3 The women knew that there was an obstacle (the stone) in the way of carrying out their work for their master.  They did not allow this thought (this obstacle) to stop them in the work of their master, they started out even though they knew there was an obstacle in the way of fulfilling this work.  How many times when we are in our masters service do we have obstacles ahead only to find a way has been prepared.  Exhortation, there are many obstacles on the way as we walk towards the Kingdom/in our masters service, these must not make us sit at home or give up.  This would be the mind of the servant with the one talent (Matt 25:24-25), we must remember the words of our master and take courage (Mark 10:27).

V.5 This young man found sitting was a divine angel (See Matt 28:2).  Have you noticed that all the divine angels mentioned in the Bible were of male form?  For example: the three men who came to Abraham (Gen 18:2); the angel who came to Samson’s parents (Judg 12:11-13); Gabriel who appeared to Daniel and Mary (Dan 8:16; Luke 1:19) etc. were all males.

All divine angels reflected the image and glory of Yahweh.  Man was made in the image of Yahweh (elohim, both a term which means the mighty ones (angels); but a term which can apply to Yahweh Himself (Gen 1:26).  But, woman was made from man (Gen 2:22,23).  And so, divine angels do not have a female form.

However, women who are redeemed at the judgment will be like the angels in that they will attain immortality like them (Luke 20:36).  But, more important, the Redeemed will be placed higher than the angels, in the future divine hierarchy. 

Jesus has obtained a higher status than the angels because of His inheritance (Heb 1:4).  Those of His redeemed brothers and sisters will join Him, in that inheritance, and help Him rule in the Kingdom (Rev 20:6).  The divine angels will be there to assist Jesus and the Redeemed in their roles.

16:10-14 Notice the way in which Mark, by the spirit of inspiration, stresses that the disciples did not believe.

It would appear from the references to white robes in Revelation that the young man in v5 is not an angel, but Jesus himself. The white robe is given to those who have finished their race and overcome the world (Rev 3:5, 6:11, 7:9,13-14). Is this possible given the evidence of the other gospel accounts?

16:17  Notice that the disciples were to do as Jesus had done. He had cast out ‘devils’ from Mary (Mark 16:9) now they were to do the same

16:12  Luke says that the eyes of the two were ‘holden’ so that they did not recognise him. Here Mark says Jesus appeared in ‘another form’ – that is he did not look like they were used to seeing him.

16:4-5 The simplicity of the statement here belies the amazement that must have been in the minds of the woman – and doubtless anxiety also. So doubtless they entered the tomb very slowly and uncertainly, not knowing what they might find.  Maybe they expected to see Jesus’ dead body – or maybe they thought that the grave had been robbed already.

16:3 The three women knew they wouldn't be able to move the stone because it was "very great" - v4 (to paraphrase the Greek into contemporary English: exceedingly mega).  Yet in Mark 15:46 it reads as if Joseph of Arimathaea was able to move it unaided. The John record suggests, without being specific, that Nicodemus was with Joseph, but would three women have been unable to achieve what two men probably did without difficulty?

Mark 16:9 Notice how jesus arose early. Mark 1:35 And in the morning,rising up a great while before day,he went out, and departed in to a solitary place,and there prayed. Jesus started his fathers work early in the morning while it was still dark he didnt lie in on a sunday morning like we do. He got up before sunrise and went about his fathers work.

Risng early is a common theme in scripture.

Here we see Christ upon his ressurection taking his role as priest in its fullness v19. On the 8th day of Aarons consecration as high priest the consecration was ruined by 2 drunken idiots who offered theyre own sacrifice that consecration was spoiled by the thinking of flesh.

Here on the 8th day we see Jesus risen as great high priest but he overcame and destroyed flesh,no fleshly thoughts came and spoilt his consecration Heb 7:16 through his overcoming he now has power of an endless life.

16:8-9  Piecing together the records we realise that having fled frightened they went to where Peter and John were (John 20:2) and then Mary returned to the sepulchre with Peter and John (John 20:11) and then remained at the sepulchre when Peter and John left. This is when Jesus appeared to Mary.

16:3    Whilst on the way to the tomb the women wonder ‘who shall roll us away the stone’. So true to life is this.  Stressed by the events of the last few days they were not thinking clearly but still going through the motions of ‘normal’ living.

16:3 the “mother of James” is Jesus’ mother – Mark 6:3

16:1-3    The casual way in which the record describes the way and reason for the women's return to the tomb might cause us not to appreciate that they had not thought at all that Jesus was going to be raised from the dead.

16:5-6 I suppose the last thing the woman expected to see was an angel! Also his words ‘he is risen’ would have been met with incredulous ears.  Our familiarity with the record tends to dull our excitement at what we read. We should try and enter into the feelings of these women.

16:6    These three words are probably the most profound words ever spoken to man. So much is bound within them The plan of God has moved forward significantly. Do we often reflect on those words? Do we realise how they impact on our lives?

16:9-14 Notice the recurring “appeared”. The record is forcing the reader to appreciate the physical bodily resurrection of Jesus 

16:5 This “young man … clothed in a long white garment” contrasts with the “certain young man” who “fled ... naked” (Mk. 14:51-52).

16:2 “at the rising of the sun” was the earliest possible time the women could go to the tomb. Sunrise marked the end of the sabbath with its travel restrictions. SO we see the women taking the first opportunity to go to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body. Are we so urgent in our actions to take the first possible opportunity to do what is necessary?

16:9 in describing Mary as the one who “out of whom he had cast seven devils” we see Jesus had prepared her in readiness for this time.  Rather like Eph 5:26-27 speaks of the way in which he prepares us for his return.

16:1 Doubtless the women were well aware of what Joseph and Nicodemus had done in haste, One wonders how often a hasty burial was followed with a more carefully organised treatment of the body. Whether or not it was common or not does not alter the fact that had they not come to anoint the body of Jesus the joy of the resurrection morning would not have been theirs

16:5  When we read that the women were “affrighted” the inspired writer uses the same word which is translated “amazed” in  14:33. Fear as we understand it was not their emotion. It was amazement. What they experienced was not what they were expecting.

We must try and enter into their emotions in order that we also see the enormity of what God had done for us.

16:2-3The difficulty the women perceived – who will roll away the stone – did not stop them from trying to do what they had planned. Lesser individuals would have seen the problem of the stone as a reason why they should not even try to fulfil the planned task. The proverb –  26:13 – comes to mind.

How often do we allow perceived problems to prevent us even starting a good work?