Comments for June 30

11 v. 13 - We do well to be reminded that when God fights the battle, no-one in the righteous army is killed at all. ch.14:45, 2Sam.19:22, Exo.14:13, Psa.44:4-8.

11 v.5 - Notice that whilst Saul has been made king he does not have a throne but rather is still continuing to look after his father's cattle. It as if he had no regard to the anointing of Samuel.
11 v.13 - A glimmer of awareness of Yahweh's work is seen here in Saul. An awareness which seemed to be lacking most of the time during the reign of Saul.

12 v.9 - 'sold them into the hand ...' is a refrain in the book of Judges which is found once also in 1 Samuel [Judges 2:14 3:8 4:2 10:7 1 Samuel 12:9] And marks chastening from Yahweh to cause Israel to repent and turn to him. In the book of Judges this happens every time the chastening comes. This is a mark of the long suffering of God. He knew how His people would respond and knew that they would turn away but He still loved them. A wonderful comfort for ourselves.
12 v.11 - Whilst 'Bedan' is here mentioned amongst the Judges he is not mentioned anywhere else in Scripture, let alone in the book of Judges. So he was either a judge of whom we have no information or is a different name for one of the judges of whom we have other information. Suggestions have been made that it refers either to Barak or Samson, though no reliable evidence is supplied to support the ideas.
12 v.17 - We should note that rain and thunder in the time of wheat harvest in Israel was most unusual, if not unheard of. But this event was not a 'natural event' it was a response to prayer and clearly was terrifying  Wheat harvest is June / July in Israel.

v.3 - Here Samuel is laying out the contrast for the people between what they knew when God was their only King, and what they will now experience with the human kings that they have asked for.

11:1-8 We might wonder why the men of Jabesh Gilead thought that Saul would help them. They lived on the extremity of the land of Israel across Jordan way up North. However there is probably a good reason for their optimism. There were 400 maids from Jabesh Gilead given to the men of Benjamin after the awful events of Judges 20. So it is probable that one of those women was the grand mother or great grandmother of Saul.

12:1 We have now moved on again to the end of Samuel's life and he charges the people as to how they should walk and summarises elements of Israel's history (12:7-12) to bring them to the point when they wanted a king. He used this history to show to them that even though they did not have kings in the past the Lord delivered them - through Judges - as if he is making the point that they really do not need a king, even though God has given them one.

11:14-15 So Samuel wanted to 'renew the kingdom' - what had happened? Was just one battle sufficient to require the kingdom to be renewed? This indicates that by this time in Saul's kingdom there was no direction and God was not the centre of the people's lives. Saul, as we saw (see above) was not even committed to rulership.

12:12 Nahash died during the early reign of David (1 Chronicles 19:1)

11:3 That Nahash was willing for the men of Jabesh to wait for seven days to seek a deliverer would indicate that he did not think that anyone would be willing to come or be able to stand against him.

12:6 The assertion by Samuel that the Lord 'appointed' (Heb) Moses and Aaron comes after he has spoken about the way he has been rejected by the people who wanted a king. The force of this point is that it was the Lord, not the people who appointed Moses and Aaron by contrast to how the king was chosen.

 12:7-16 Samuel told the people to look back over their past history and learns its lessons afresh; it was God whose "righteous acts" had saved them from Egypt, brought them to Canaan, and cared for, disciplined, and saved them,as the pendulum of their faith in Him swung backwards and forward. The long period of the Judges was sketched out for them by this last one of a long and distinguished line, and, so that they might go utterly without excuse, the lesson was underscored that through all the changing scenes of life. "the Lord your God is your king:."

Today a thought I've heard from someone, somewhere.  Saul was greatly angered when he heard about the trouble of Jabesh-Gilead, and God's Spirit came on him 1Sam 11:6).  Was his mother of Jabesh-Gilead (see Judg 21:14)? 

11:1 Jabesh-gilead was situated on the border of Gad and Manasseh on the east side of the Jordan.  All the inhabitants of this city were supposed to have been annihilated except four hundred virgins who were given to the men of Benjamin (Judg 21:10-14).  If that were the case, then the present inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead had no direct relationship with Benjamin.  Nevertheless, the appeal of Jabesh-gilead to Saul drew on the connection of heritage that Saul, a Benjamite, would have had with the city.

Jabesh-gilead and Beth-shan were in sight of each other.  When Saul and his three sons were killed by the Philistines, they were hung up on a wall in Beth-shan as trophies.  In gratitude for Saul's delivery from Nahash, the men of Jabesh-gilead went over to Beth-shan and took the bodies of Saul and his sons down from the wall and buried them (1Sam 31:11-13). 

Jabesh-gilead is about six miles from Pella.  Those who heeded the prophetical warning of Jesus about the coming destruction of Jerusalem, in 70 AD, fled to Pella and were safe (Mark 13:14).

After Saul had been chosen as king before all the people, he went home, and "valiant men went with him, whose hearts God had touched".  In 11:5 we discover that instead of uniting these men in the common aim of delivering Israel from oppressors, Saul had left them in the village whilst he went back to work on his farm.  Can you picture the scene of bewilderment among these men who had been expecting a leader they could follow and give their lives for?

Saul always waited for events to push him along. He was preoccupied with his own life and seemed to care very little for others.  Twice now he had gone home and ignored the call of God to deliver His people.  At the end of chapter 11 the full story emerges in the words of Samuel: "Come, let us go to Gilgal and renew the kingdom there".  Saul's apathy had so affected Israel that they had started to forget they had a king, and he needed to be reannointed just to reinforce the fact!

Saul's apathy and lack of motivation might be explained by his descendency from Gibeah and Jabesh Gilead, both of which had been destroyed by the other tribes of Israel (see comments above). This may have caused him to be brought up into an environment of hostility towards the other tribes, and also into an environment where farming, re-population and reclamation of land was viewed as paramount.  It may also partially explain the chip he had on his shoulder when one greater than him appeared.

11:7      The way in which Saul hewed the oxen into 12 parts and sent them through Israel is like the way that the Levite cut up his concubine and sent her pieces throughout Israel – Judg 20:6. On that occasion it was to call the people up against Benjamin. Now Saul is calling the people to join him in defending a city which had not joined in the activities Judges 20 records.

12:2     In describing Saul as the one who ‘walked before you’ we are not being introduced to a shepherd who went out and came in before them. This was the way that Moses behaved Deut 31:2

12:17-18 The wheat harvest would have been late June, early July; at that time of the year it seldom, if ever rains. The sky is for the most part cloudless. There could not, therefore, have been a stronger or more appropriate proof of a Divine mission than the phenomenon of rain and thunder happening. The people regarded it as a miraculous display of Divine power. In a state of panic they asked Samuel to pray. What comforting words Samuel delivered to the people. Fear not; The LORD will not forsake His people. Then he delivered the exhortation, which is still as powerful today as it was at that time. Only fear the LORD, and serve Him in truth with all your heart, and consider how great things He has done for you. (V.24)   

11:5   Saul is king – but still working in the field! David, when anointed, continued to care for sheep – but the sheep he cared for were God’s people. The contrast between Saul who focuses on earthly things and David who focused on heavenly things is seen here.

11:14,15 It is interesting that Samuel publicly confirmed the kingship of Saul at Gilgal.  It was here that Joshua circumcised the males who came through the wilderness journey (Josh 5:7-9).  Both were public covenants in the sight of Yahweh.

11:7 Over the years we have seen a number of echoes of the incident of the Levite’s concubine in the book of Judges and the association of that event with the men of Jabesh Gilead. Here is another. ‘with one consent’ is the same as ‘as one man’ in Judg 20:1

11:1 Nahash means serpent.  The Ammonites derived from Ammon the son of Lot.  The Ammonites are closely associated with the Moabites, who are descended from Lot’s other son Moab.  And so, this conflict, like so many in the Near Middle East, was an intra-extended-family affair.

11:2 Taking out the right eye of a captive made him useful as a servant, but ineffective as a fighting man.

11:7 This action is similar to the Levite’s in bringing attention to the whole nation (Judg 19:29).

12:12 Samuel reminds the people of their error in demanding a human king

12:16,17 As a confirmation of Yahweh’s displeasure at the people’s choosing an earthly king, thunder and rain was sent.  This was harvest time (June/July) when normally the skies would be clear.

12:19 After seeing the sign from heaven, the people admitted their wrong in dismissing Yahweh as their king.

Saul appears to have been a keen student of history - Judg 6:15;1Sam 9:21;Judg 7:16;1Sam 11:11;Judg 19:29;1Sam 11:7.

12:3 Could we lay ourselves bare before our brethren and sisters and ask such a question in the certain knowledge that we would receive the sort of answer that Samuel received?

12:5Having established that the people had not rejected him for his behaviour Samuel now reminds the people that their choice of a king – like the nations – will be a snare to them.

11:1. After Nahash is defeated, he becomes David's friend. That's quite a change around. See 2Sam 10:2

Question: Have you ever been humbled by someone, or some event, which has eventually turned out for the best? Do you think God was working in your life on that occasion? Do you think God was working with Nahash, even though he started off so badly?

12:13-15         Whilst Israel now had a king who they thought would lead them into battle to victory the emphasis should have still been upon obeying the words of God. So this is emphasised by Samuel.

12:14-15         The word “obey” in these two verses is better translated as “listen to”.      The idea is similar but the force is greater. Israel should have known what was required. If not the answer was to be found in the law. It was their responsibility to hearken to that  Deut 4:1

12:7  The way in which Samuel called upon the people to “stand still” echoes Moses – Num 9:8. 

12:23   Given Israel’s disobedience spoken of in the chapter a lesser man would have given up on them But not Samuel. Despite their sin he was still willing to teach them the things of God.

Samuel the military man

"And the Lord sent Jerubbaal, Bedan, Jephthah, and Samuel, and delivered you out of the hand of your enemies on every side; and you dwelt in safety." 1Sam 12:1

Samuel lists himself alongside the other Judges that fought on God's behalf for Israel. Perhaps it's easy to forget that Samuel led Israel in battle. Perhaps because the story of his childhood is so well known we tend to think of him as a tender, scholarly man. See 1Sam 7:7-15. Also notice how scared the people were when he made an unscheduled visit (1Sam 16:4).

ANGER

And so we read of Saul's anger ... "and his anger was kindled greatly" (1Sam 11:6,) Anger is a powerful emotion and Saul's was stirred up by the fact that the Ammonites threatened the children of Israel with humiliation and hurt. We too live in an angry society.  From road rage to workplace incidents to marital bickering, out-of-control anger is all around us. But anger directed at sin and the mistreatment of others is not wrong, just look at the Lord's example when he overthrew the tables of the money changers.(Matt 21:12) God used Jesus's and Saul's anger to bring justice and freedom. When injustice makes us angry, let us ask God how we can channel that anger in a constructive way in order that a positive results may be brought about.

12:20-21        Looking at the context of these two chapters and Samuel’s comment about desiring a king the “vain thing” must be the desire to be like the nations around them.

12:23    Jesus taught that we should pray for those who oppose us - Matt 5:44 – Samuel, therefore, understanding this principle, would continue to pray for Saul and the people despite their wickedness. A lesson for us.

12:11   The Bedan listed here amongst the Judges is, in some manuscripts, called Barak.

12:24 The call to serve God echoes God’s instruction to Israel at the end of the wilderness journey, For example in Deut 6:13, 10:12.

12:18So, Samuel called unto Yahweh; and Yahweh sent thunder and rain that day: and all the people greatly feared Yahweh and Samuel.

Yahweh sent thunder and rain, the reason being in v17 was that they may perceive that their wickedness was great in seeking a king notice that they feared Samuel and Yahweh but not Saul. But how would thunder and rain be troubling to Israel? Because in v17 it was time of wheat harvest.

Now the wheat harvest in Israel is between May and June, it was called feast of weeks or Pentecost it came 7 weeks after Passover and during May and June no rain fell thus creating perfect weather conditions to harvest.  

The word rain here is the word Matar it is the most common word used for rain in the Bible. Gesenius emphasises that it is not simply a shower and it normally used in a negative sense for example in Gen 7:4-5 during the flood, Matar implies a rain that is directly and intentionally caused by God just as it was here in 1 Sam 12. Matar is not always be associated with water for in Gen 19 we read of fire and brimstone raining down upon Sodom.

11:8 so we see at this time that there was a distinction made between Judah and Israel. Israel being the larger of the two parts as it always was after the divided kingdom.

11:4 Did the messengers from Jabesh-Gilead come to Gibeah of Saul because they knew that Saul was king? Or was it that they knew that s number of their daughters had been given to the men of Gilead – Judg 21:12 It does seem that the messengers were more intent on telling the inhabitants of Gilead rather than seeking for Saul because Saul only learns about the problem when he “came … out of the field” (:4) but the city which in Judg 20:10 was called “Gibeah of Benjamin” is now called “Gibeah of Saul”Judg 20:4) -  but it is called “Gibeah of Benjamin” on a number of occasions after this event.

11:1 Jabesh-Gilead was a long way from Gibeah where Saul reigned. Looking on a map it can be seen it was way up north on the other side of the River Jordan. So probably Nahash though that the city was of little consequence. Doubtless he was unaware of the possibility of Saul’s connection with the city.

STRIVE FOR THE MARK

Samuel's last words to Israel were powerful ones - not just for them, but for us also. This is what he said: "Only fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart. For consider what great things he has done for you. But if you still do wickedly, you shall be swept away, both you and your king." (1Sam 12:24-25).

What Samuel was asking was for whole hearted and faithful dedication to the LORD from the whole of life, from each one of us. That's a hard ask. But no matter who we are, and no matter how well we are doing, there is always room for improvement. We can spend more time reading and meditating about God as we read his scriptures. We can give ourselves to prayer more than we do now. We can talk to our children more and train them up in God's way, with more dedication than we are doing now. We can show more enthusiasm for spiritual things than we have showed before. And we can follow God's instructions and sin less than we have in the past.

We might not be perfect, but we can improve and grow toward God. So let us strive toward the mark that Samuel has set for us.

1 Samuel 11:11 Saul divided the army into three companies. Gideon also used this method (Judges 7:16). Napoleon also used this method which is totally different to the Roman style of fighting. At Austerlitz, just outside of Vienna, Napoleon employed this technique, firstly using the two outer thirds, and then engaged the middle third last, using the cavalry like a battering ram. This battle brought down the Holy Roman Empire and was the key to Napoleon's success. 

11:8  so we see at this time that there was a distinction made between Judah and Israel. Israel being the larger of the two parts as it always was after the divided kingdom.

10:8  On this occasion Saul did wait for Samuel. He has not yet developed the arrogance that he later would show in his dealing with Samuel. By the time we reach 13:8-9, even though he waited the appointed number of days he still took it upon himself todisregard Samuel’s command.  Such arrogancy cost him the kingdom.

12:3 Was Samuel feeling dejected? Or was he challenging the people? Did he see the desire for a king as an affront to his rulership? Sadly, despite Samuel’s faithfulness, he did not have a reliable successor in his sons so there was a “power vacuum” that needed to be filled – hence the “king” Saul

11:4 Gibeah was Saul’s home town. However the messengers from Jabesh-Gilead came to the “people” there. Not specifically to Saul. Saul only learns of their message when her returns from the field. Is the reason that they did not particularly look for Saul as his status as captain was not really accepted at this time but the men of Gibeah would be seen to have a family connection with Jabesh-Gibeah?

v.6 - Now is always the time to seek the Lord. Whatever the past has held - however we feel about it - we need to do it now, before it is too late. We presume upon the continuance of our lives, but we do not know when they will end. Make the best of the present is the exhortation from this verse. 1Chr.28:9, Psa.14:2, 32:6.

v.13 - 'thorns' and 'briers' marks that the land is suffering the curse that was placed upon Adam [Genesis 3:18] Hebrews 6:8 draws on this language in Isaiah to show that the Mosaic order is to pass away. It is against the background of 'the sure mercies of David' [Isaiah 55:3] which is associated with the resurrection of Jesus [Acts 13:34] to everlasting life.

v.1 - The right sustenance is available to us if we just go along and buy it. It doesn't cost money. We buy it with our life and receive in return an eternal inheritance.

Again, I make no apology for repeating this table from chapter 22. The promises to David form such a central plank of the gospel.

9:7 Throne of David
16:5 Tabernacle of David
22:22 Key of the house of David
37:35 Defend for David's sake
38:5 The God of David thy father
55:3 The sure mercies of David

God worked in Isaiah's day because of what he said to David.

:4 Continuing the theme of the promises to David 'witness' quotes Psalm 89:37 where the Psalmist, speaking of the fulfilment of the promises to David, talks of Jesus as the 'faithful witness' which is how Jesus describes himself (Revelation 3:14)

 V3. The Apostle Paul, in Acts 13, tells us that this has to do with the promise which God made to David. 2Sam 7 These promised mercies were made sure by the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. Isaiah also connects the two aspects of the work of Christ, that of Saviour and his coming Kingship. Isa 55:4

SOUL FOOD
 
Our bodies need food to survive.  When we are hungry we eat and our hunger is satisfied.  Sometimes we indulge in rich foods which give us pleasure as well as sustenance, but whatever we eat only sustains us until we feel hungry again.  Because we need food to survive we spend our money on it.  There is no point buying a recipe book if we are hungry.  It may have the pictures of the recipes on it but we need the food for our bodies.
 
Just as we buy food when we are hungry, so we need to feed our soul with food that will sustain it.  That sort of food does not come from vegetables, fruit or meat, it comes from the word of God.
 
None of us are silly enough to buy inedible things when we need food, but sometimes we feed our souls with indigestible material that poisons it rather than sustains it.  God says, "Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare.  Give ear and come to me that your soul may live."  (Isa 55:2-3)
 
Take note of the way to get this soul food.  It is repeated three times: "Listen," "Listen," and "Give ear."  We need to listen to God, read his word and hear what he tells us.  Then our souls will be satisfied and we will live.
 
Have we fed our souls today?

V.1 In this chapter we see the gospel call going out to all nations. There is here a marvellous application to the call of the Gentiles in the first century and later. there is one qualification however, they must thirst, or have a keen sense of need. As water is necessary to maintain physical life, we see that it is also necessary for salvation. 

a) Could we use Isa 55:6,7 in our preaching today?  Yes, of-course there’s a very valid preaching point here.  Let’s tell the world to repent, to forsake their wicked way, and return to God. And as He promises to Israel, He will have mercy, and will pardon.
b) Have you noticed the reference to the punishments of Eden, in Isa 55:13? Thorns and briers will be replaced with fir and myrtle trees in God’s kingdom.

55:1  In Isa 52:3 God had spoken about salvation ‘without money’ now the method is explained. It was to be achieved through the fulfilment of the promises to David – ‘the sure mercies of David’ Isa 55:3.

V.1 - "Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters" (NIV) this is amplified in John 4:9-15 where it mentions "living water" from Jesus which refers to God's word of life  Matt 4:4.

V.3 - "Give ear and come to me; hear me, that your soul may live. I will make an everlasting  covenant with you, my faithful love promised to David". The word for "soul" is Heb. "nephesh" (5315) meaning "person, body, a breathing creature, life, soul" and thus we see here the indication that under certain conditions/promises the "soul" may "live" via the resurrection when Christ returns and those at judgment welcomed as the saints are allowed to reign on the earth but obviously we have the indication of the soul's mortal state made even more plain by Rom 6:3,4,23. This mercy shown to David that Peter Forbes already referred to is the covenant/promises to David in 2Sam 7:8-16 where it talks about David's son and then his throne being established forever; we have Solomon indicated in 1Kin 2:10-12, but 2Sam 7 refers to the greater fulfilment of this later son Jesus Isa 9:6,7 who's return we eagerly await. The everlasting covenant refers to eternal life with Christ in the kingdom of God on earth (Matt 6:10;Matt 5:5;Rev 5:10;Isa 2:1-4;Acts 1:9-11;Isa 9:6-7).

V.8-9 - Sometimes, looking through the dim vision of man, we may have difficulty understanding why God allows or causes certain things to happen the way they do but we must recognize that His thoughts and ways are infinitely higher than ours.

This is a very famous chapter, often quoted in lectures and literature, in conjunction with the call to salvation. You would think that there's not much more to be said about it. But there's something very obvious and very important that's often missed in our reading of it. In fact, it's vital. And here it is:

It is the word of God that saves us.

Yes, the chapter speaks of salvation through Christ (v4). Yes, it speaks of the free gift of life by God's grace (v1). Yes, it speaks of repentance and abundant forgiveness (v7). But all this is secondary to the main thrust, which is simply:

"Read your bible!"

In v2 we're told that nothing satisfies, except the word of God, therefore we should "listen carefully to Me and eat what is good". In v3 we should incline our ear, hear and live because of the knowledge gained. In v6 we should seek Him while there's still time (today's the only time we have). In v7 we're told that our own thoughts are simply not good enough, but have to be replaced. Not only should we forsake our old paths, but the old thoughts too, and replace them with His word. Why is this so important? Well, v8-9 because our thoughts are alien to God's, and His so much better than ours. This word will make our thoughts so fruitful that they will also provide instruction for others (v10) and if we listen to that word then it will automatically change our thoughts and way of life (v11) and that's a firm promise "it shall not return to me void".

We should not think that salvation will come to us in any other way than this. It may be hard for us to accept the fact that we have to read the bible daily, and it may be immensely difficult for us to fit it into our busy lives, but we must. The message of this chapter is as clear as day:

"Hear, and your soul shall live".

55:1 In saying that the ‘wine and oil’ can be bought ‘without price’ the prophet is using language similar to that of a financial transaction to speak of responding to the gospel message. The idea of Prov 23:23 is therefore seen here.

55:8 When God says his ways and thoughts are not the same as ours He is making a profound and fundamental point. Echoing the language of Ecc 3:11 we learn that our very nature prevents us, by our own endeavours, from finding out about God. It requires His revelation. We have that in His word.

V.1 All people, young and old, need water to sustain life. But, youngsters need milk to grow, while mature persons can take wine.  These spiritual offerings, which cater to all levels of maturity, are made freely by Yahweh.  It all starts with water which equates to His Word.  Jesus, the Word made flesh, can give living water (John 1:14; 4:14; 7:38).  Believing Him and studying the scriptures, will allow one to develop spiritual maturity. 

55:1 Obtaining food ‘without price’ is like Joseph’s brothers experienced – Gen 42:28 – when they went to Egypt for corn.

Isa 55:3 First Principles>Sure Mercies of David
The covenant which God made with David will not be broken Psa 89:3-4, Psa 89:34-36.
Every kingdom has a king, a government, a people, a land and a capital city.
These five conditions are to be satisfied by God's coming Kingdom as the following references show:
1. There will be a king - go to 2Sam 7:12-16
2. The disciples of Jesus looked for a restoration of Israel. Jesus has promised the disciples that they will govern Jesus' Kingdom - go to Matt 19:28
3. Since the Kingdom of God is the Kingdom of Israel restored, Israel will be the people of God's Kingdom - go to Isa 55:1-3
4. The land will stretch from the Mediterranean Sea to the Dead Sea and from the river of Egypt to the River Euphrates - go to Psa 72:8
5. The capital city is to be Jerusalem - go to Jer 3:17
First Principles> For more information about each topic, go to Acts 8:12.

V.2 It is better to spend time and effort in acquiring wholesome spiritual food rather than the bread of deceit (Prov 20:17).

V.4 Jesus is the faithful witness (Rev 1:5).

V.5 The Gentiles will be included in God’s plan of salvation.

V.6 The invitation for salvation has an expiry date. It is a time-limited offer. And so, if you have not been put right with Yahweh, then do it immediately.

Vs.8,9 We cannot comprehend how much greater Yahweh is than humans.  And yet, He is talked about by some people as if he were just like them.  Such expressions as: The man upstairs, are abominable.

V.11 God’s word is sure.  What He says will happen, will happen! (Gen 1:3).

V.12 The remnant of Israel shall be saved and enjoy Yahweh’s grace in the Kingdom (Isa 44:23; Mic 2:12).

V.13 In the Kingdom, nature will be tamed and the earth will flourish (Isa 60:13).

v1-3 First Principles>Sure Mercies of David>People
1. Since the Kingdom of God is the Kingdom of Israel Restored, Israel will be the people of God's Kingdom Isa 55:1-3, Psa 69:36-36, Mic 4:7-8.
2. Although Israel will be the people of God's Kingdom, Christ's rulership will be world-wide Psa 72:11, Rev 11:15.
First Principles>Sure Mercies of David> for more information go to Isa 55:1.  

55:1 The concept of obtaining ‘food’ without price echoes and develops Isa 52:3

55:8-9Here Isaiah expands on the sentiment of the Psalmist – Psa 92:5

55:3 The “sure mercies of David” speaks of the promise of 2Sam 7:12-17 and picks up on similar words in Psa 40:11. A Psalm which speaks of the self sacrifice in total obedience of David, the greater son of David.

55:6   The call made by Isaiah to the people here echoes the way another prophet – Azariah – appealed to Asa –2Chron 15:2

55:1   An example of a man who did not understand that the gospel was available “without price” was Simon – Acts 8:18

55:7    The call to return to the Lord is echoed twice in the contemporary prophet – Hos 6:1, 14:1

1. Isa 55:1 - "every one" (meaning Jew and Gentile); "Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters" (spiritual thirst, the desire of the fulfillment of the everlasting covenant in the promised son of David, Jesus, that was the thirsty and the waters, "wine and milk" are connected with the word of life - Psa 42:1-2;Psa 63:1-3;Amos 8:11-13;Isa 49:8-11;Rev 7:15-17;Matt 5:6;John 4:9-15;John 6:32-35;John 7:37-39); "buy...without money and without price" (Matt 5:3;Matt 11:5;James 2:5;Acts 8:20;Matt 13:44-46;Matt 19:20-24 as the price was already paid by Christ).

2. Isa 55:1,5 - living water (John 7:37-39;John 19:34) glorified.

3. Isa 55:2 - true riches are free (Isa 52:3;Isa 55:3).

4. Isa 55:3 - "everlasting covenant...the sure mercies of David" refer to the Messianic promise of David's descendant Jesus sitting on David's throne and it lasting forever with the faithful followers having eternal life but death for those who do not follow (2Sam 7:12-17,2Sam 7:8,9,21;Isa 7:14;Acts 13:33-34).

5. Isa 55:4 - "a witness to the peoples" (Rev 3:14;Rev 1:5;1Tim 6:13;John 18:37) this would be Christ and perhaps the body of Christ (Isa 55:5); "a leader and commander of the peoples" this would be Christ.

6. Isa 55:6 - "Seek" (Matt 7:7-8;John 7:11,18-20,25,30,34,36;Mal 3:1); call on the Lord while he is near.

7. Isa 55:6-7 - (John 12:35-36;Rev 3:19-22); if there is repentance he will mercifully pardon.

8. Isa 55:8-9 - "my thoughts are not your thoughts"; God's ways are higher than man's ways and His thoughts higher than

man's thoughts.

9. Isa 55:10-11 - the rain/word is sent to the just and the unjust; like the rain, God's words aren't empty.

10. Isa 55:10-13 - Christ and his true disciples are the "bud", "seed", and "bread" of the beautifulo fihure of the rain-watered produce of the earth; the return of Christ will usher in the transformation of the earth, a millennial time when thorns and briers shall be banished, with fire and myrtles taking their places.

11. Isa 55:13 - transformation by the Word; the punishments from the sin in Eden will be reversed (Gen 3:17-18); Christ is the everlasting sign that shall not be cut off (Isa 53:8;Dan 9:26;Isa 56:3,5;Isa 53:10).

55:1   God’s offer of salvation “without price” contrasts the Assyrian requirement of a “Present” 2Kin 18:31 to obtain peace. Probably Isaiah’s words were spoken to Hezekiah at the same time as the Assyrians were making their offer.

55:1      The invitation to take food freely echoes the invitation in Song 5:1

55:3    The “everlasting covenant” is something that Jeremiah will later speak of  - Jer 32:40

55:5    We meet this idea again twice as we continuing reading the prophecy of Isa 56:8, 65:1

Isa 55:10 I Love how the readings link up... 1Sam 12:18 we saw that Rain was sent at time of wheat harvest (normally a dry time of year) to punish Israel in their wickedness for seeking a king. Here we see the blessing of rain. 

Similar words are used here in Deut 32:2 where rain is likened to the doctrine of God. 

At the moment the world does not see any blessing in rain (the word) but here in Isaiah we see that in Isa 55:11 that his word will not return to him void. In fact it will bring forth and bud giving seed to the sower. Bud speaks of springing up perhaps speaking of ressurection? Dew in Deut 32 also speaks of ressurection, 

Isa 55:12 now speaks of the time when the word in no longing returning to him void, has suceeded fruit bearing trees Psa 65:9-12 this is teh reason for rain (gods word). Te whole of creation praising and giving glory to God. 

Next time complain that its raining let us remember what rain speaks of and remember the words of Song 2:10.

55:10 the way in which God tends His creation to provide seed is quoted by Paul – 2Cor 9:10 – in the context of how the believer should show generosity, This is exactly what God does for His creation. He is generous. That generosity is seen ultimately in the way he gave Jesus to die for our sins.

55:8-11 Man cannot by searching, using his own reasoning, find out the works of God Ecclesiastes 3:11. We can only know Him because he has revealed Himself in His word. His word will achieve its objective. But only in those who are disciples of His word. It is all too easy to bring our own ideas to Scripture and limit our understanding of Him because of our own ideas.

The objective He has with His word is to wash our minds that they might be like His son’s mind. – Eph 5:26.

55:1 the gift of eternal life is available to all. However not all will avail themselves of it. Unless one sees the need to be thirsty then the offer will not be accessed.

Jesus speaks of the blessedness of those who do hunger and thirst – Mt 4:6.

55:2  The call to not labour for that which does not satisfy is the basis for Jesus’ words in John 6:27. We all need to “labour” but the prophet and Jesus are encouraging a different focus from the day to day humdrum focus that it is so easy to have.

55:1 The call goes out to those who recognise that they have a need. Being thirsty comes naturally to all of us. However seeing our need for salvation does not come naturally. It is only if we recognise the wretched condition of our sinfulness that we will see a need – a thirst. We can only learn about out condition from a careful and regular reading of His word.

19 v.9 - Those 'arrayed in fine linen' or 'the righteousness of the saints' (v.8) are now called to the marriage supper of the Lamb. These are the wise virgins of the parable who were able to enter because they had been watchful and ready for his return. It is by God's grace (here portrayed as the fine linen covering) that we are able to be there. Let us not fail to do our part and be watchful. ch.3:20, Matt.22:2-4, 25:4

ch.19 - Four times in chapter 19 [v1,3,4,6] the redeemed sing alleluia. This word catches the meaning of the Hebrew 01984 & 03050 where it is translated 'praise the LORD' [Psalm 104:35 105:45 106:1,48 111:1 112:1 113:1,9 115:17,18 117:2 135:1,3,21 146:1,10 147:1,20 148:1,14 149:1,9 150:1 150:6] Truly those who are redeemed will 'praise the LORD' may we, in anticipation of this great even praise Him now.

20 v.6 - What a wonderful prospect - to be in the first resurrection. All our hopes and desires will be fulfilled. reigning with Christ as kings and priests [Revelation 5:10]. We will be there if we take our training for this priesthood seriously.

The use of 1 Chronicles 16 which speaks of the time when David brought the ark to Zion and behaved as a priest after the order of Melchisedec shows that the promises to David - which flowed from the action of bringing the ark to Zion and the Melchisedec priesthood are central issues in the fulfilment of the purpose of God.

The use of Isaiah 14 once again ties falsehood with Babylon. It is appropriate that the restraining of sin is associated with the lock on the bottomless pit.

The linking of Isaiah 11 and Psalm 2 shows how both passages speak of the same time in the events associated with the return of Christ.

Here we have a very interesting quotation from Daniel 6 where, in Daniel, the servants of God are entrapped - or so it seemed. However they were delivered. Not so here in Revelation 20. God's enemies fate is sealed for ever.

20 v.10,14,15  Have you ever wondered where the "Lake of Fire" referred to here in The Apocalypse is geographically located? In our very days, we have received a dramatic "wake-up" call. We have seen the very flames of the "Lake of Fire" with our own eyes in the news over the past couple of months. The Apocalypse makes reference to the dreadful fate of those found on the wrong side of Christ at the Judgement seat. Those rejected are driven from His presence and find themselves "cast into the lake of fire." We believe that we can identify the region of "the lake of fire" as being in the Balkans, in the very region where the recent Kosovo Crisis was played out. As Brother Thomas wrote, "A lake of fire is a tract of land in a state of fiery ignition." This Central European region has always been a melting pot of cultures, nationalities and hostilities. It is in this region where the Western and Eastern Roman Empire met and it has long been the cause of ethnic hostility and brutality. The dreadful fate of those who are sent forth from the presence of Christ will be to find themselves in this Central European region in the midst of another "Kosovo" type crisis as the nations rage and prepare to do battle with Israel. The presence of a multitude of "rejected outcasts" in that region and at that time will only exacerbate an already fiery situation. Especially as the rejected will be perceived as having some connection with the Jews. Today is our day of opportunity. Let us seize the day and fill our lamps with Oil so that we can go forth to meet Him in faith as the five wise virgins did in the parable of Matt 25. See also Christ's warning in Matt 25:40-46.

 20:12 "book of life"  This is the most important book; for only those whose names are recorded therein will receive the life promised. References to this "book" are contained in Exo 32:32,  Luke 10:20,  Phil 4:3,  Rev 3:5

19:4 "Amen; Alleluia" is found elsewhere in Scripture in Neh 5:13where "praised the Lord" matches "Alleluia" in Revelation. In Nehemiah it is the word of those who have kept the covenant. In Revelation it is the cry of the four living creatures when they see the beauty of God's final deliverance of the saints.

20:8 "Gog and Magog" reminds us of Eze 38:2. However we should be careful not to assume that here we are reading about the same event as Ezekiel records. In the same way that Rev 18 quotes extensively from Eze 27 and Jeremiah to identify a power, using symbol, rev 20 uses the language from Ezekiel 38 to highlight the characteristics of a power at the end of the thousand years.

19:2  The avenging of the blood of Gods servants echoes what Jehu would do to the house of Ahab and Jezebel.

20:1-2 The casting of the dragon, with all his other appellations, into the bottomless pit where it is locked away is a beautiful image of the restraining of sin in the millennium.

19:7 We have a terrific example of one that feared the Lord as outlined in this verse when we think of the lessons taught in the book of Ruth. we are well aware of Naomi's concern and care of Ruth (Ruth 3:3). Ruth must first wash, anoint herself, and finally clothe herself. It is a matter of how we live our life. We see the example of Ruth, not only saying, but doing that which she was directed to do. Ruth 3:5-6

19:11   “in righteousness doth he judge” quotes Isa 11:4

19:2 Whilst scripture says that the whore polluted the earth in reality it is people who are polluted. The idea of the earth being polluted by rulership draws on 2Kin 11:3 where Athaliah’s rulership of the people is described as ruling over the land.

19:1 After the destruction of Rome, these events take place. The heaven here is political.  It symbolizes the new government of Jesus in the Kingdom. The people in the Kingdom will shout praise to Yahweh.

19:2 The whore represents the false system of worship.

19:3 A second Alleluia (Hallelujah) suggests the two-part destruction of Rome, the city; and then the false system itself. Forever and ever signifies complete and utter destruction for all time.

19:4 The twenty-four elders were introduced in Ch. 4, and signify the Redeemed who are now in a position of authority, especially in the role of priests, as promised (Rev 1:6).

19:5 The voice is that of Jesus, who now occupies the throne.

19:6 The complimentary reaction to 19:5 comes from the Redeemed of Christ.

19:7 The ecclesia (true members) of Christ is His bride.  John talks of Jesus as being the bridegroom (John 3:29).

19:8 White symbolizes purity.  Righteousness of saints (KJV) is better rendered righteous deeds of saints (ESV).  The saints have no righteousness of their own; Christ is their righteousness.  However, the saints are responsible for their actions.

19:9 See Jesus' parable in Matt 22:2-14. 

19:10 This is John speaking, as the enormity of the prophecy grabs him.  The feet belong to the angel that is giving John the message.  The angel points out that only God should be worshipped. That negates the angel-worship practised by some in Christendom today.

19:11 The white horse here is not the same as the one in Rev 6:2.  This one underscores the purity of the rider, Jesus.  Faithful and true is repeated from Rev 3:14.

19:12 His eyes were as a flame of fire is repeated from Rev 1:14.  Many crowns indicate the many military victories.  No man knew means no man understood.

19:13 Vesture dipped in blood talks of the military conquests of Jesus  (See Isa 63:3). Jesus is the Word made flesh (John 1:14).

19:14 The Redeemed are described here having had their garments washed (See Rev 7:14).

19:15 Sword was described in Rev 1:16.  Jesus will rule with a rod of iron (See Rev 2:27), and put down all unholy opposition.

19:16 The title of Jesus that all shall know.

19:17,18 The great feast following the slaughter of the ungodly (e.g. the demise of Gog Eze 39:17).

19:19,20 After the defeat of Gog comes the destruction of Rome.  After the destruction of Rome, the false religious system (beast), pope (the false prophet), all the system’s commerce (mark), the political arm of the system (image) will be destroyed.

19:21 The individuals who survive the campaign of 19:19,20 will be rooted out and destroyed.

Ch.20 will be discussed in the December Reading

19:21 Whilst it might seem strange to us to see a sword coming out of a mouth remember this is imagery. The mouth speaks of words. The sword speaks of conquest. The enemies of God will have sought to conquer with words. This is far more subtle than the sword. ‘Spin doctors’ can make anything sound good and appealing. Whist we would not easily be led astray by a call to arms we might easily be seduced by words.

19:7 So the time when His will is to be finalised is near. Whilst it is associated with terrible judgements on the earth the servants of God will rejoice, knowing that a better time is to come out of the judgement. A time when God will be praised.

Rev 20:14

“And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.”

The teaching concerning the lake of fire does not appear anywhere in Scripture except in the book of Revelation (Rev 19:20; 20:10,13-14; 21:8). The lake of fire is used as a metaphor as evidenced from the nature of these things subjected to its operation - death and hell. The very next sentence tells us this lake IS the second death. Once we know what the second death is, we will know what the lake of fire is.

Fire is figurative for judgment, a cleansing and purifying agent (Mal 3:2-3). In Heb 12:29 we read that, “…our God is a consuming fire.” God literally is not fire, He is “Spirit” (John 4:24), and He is “Invisible” (Col 1:15). Literal fire is visible, and produces a physical chemical change, which is irreversible. Those cast into the lake of fire are those who have been excluded from the book of life (Rev 20:15; 22:19), and will be “punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power” (1Thess 1:9; cf. Rev 21:8).

A second death means there is a first death. This first death is a temporary physical death from which those responsible to the judgment seat of Christ will be resurrected for judgment. The second death is a physical death from which there is no raising to judgment; it is permanent. There will be no more death after the second death (Rev 21:4), because there will be no more sin and, therefore, there will be no need for a grave (cf. Rom 6:23). This will be after the 1,000-year millennial reign of Christ.

How do we apply the metaphor of the lake of fire with the second death? It is not a place of everlasting punishment, but a place of permanent destruction once for all. The lake of fire unquestionably implies the utter destruction of death and hell (the grave), along with the devil, the beast, and the false prophet (Rev 20:10) who also die the second death at the end of the Millennium.

The lake of fire metaphor is taken from an actual lake, more accurately referred to as “the lake of the fire.” This lake is unique in that it used to spew out fire and brimstone (sulfur), and has been in existence for at least 4,000 years! Ancient historical references indicate that the areas around the Dead Sea smoked from subterranean fires.

Diodorus Siculus who lived in the 1^stcentury B.C. said: “The fire which burns beneath the ground and the stench render the inhabitants of the neighboring country sickly and very short lived.”

Strabo, the 1^stcentury geographer, described this area as “a land of fires,” and some of the active fires and smoke were fed by the seepage of naphtha (petroleum), bitumen, and other gaseous fumes. He called the Dead Sea a lake, as did Josephus, the early Jewish historian.

Philo, the Jewish writer during Christ’s childhood years wrote: “The fire is most difficult to extinguish, and creeps on pervading everything and smoldering. And a most evident proof which is still emitted, and the brimstone that men dig up there.”

Josephus wrote: “In the midst of the lake is a source of the fire and also there are great quantities of asphalt in the middle. The eruption is uncertain, because the movement of fire have no order known to us, as it is of many other basis…Together with the asphalt there arises a great deal of soot, smoke, and invisible to the sight (i.e. gases), by which brass, silver, and everything shining, even gold is tarnished...” and around the area were, “drops of pitch distilling from the rocks and boiling streams.” (bracket mine)

Ernest L. Martin, in his book, The Lake of Fire: Where is it Located? concludes that the lake of fire is the Dead Sea.

Stephen John Spencer wrote in his book, The Genesis Pursuit: “…the writer and explorer Constantin Francois Chasseboeuf Boisgirais Volney (1757-1820) came to Palestine in 1787 A.D. and was told that smoke could be observed at regular intervals coming out of the Dead Sea….It has remained somewhat dormant - since the late 18^thcentury.”

The “lake of the fire” was very active during the 1^st century A.D., and those early disciples would have understood exactly why Christ used this metaphor. Nothing could survive in the lake and its nearby surrounding areas. Once Christ has destroyed all evil, he will “make all things new” (Rev 21:5), and the literal Dead Sea will then be healed and come alive again (Eze 47:8-10).

20:4    There are a number of times that Revelation speaks of reigning a thousand years. We might have difficulty thinking of this as a literal time. We might think of it as a long time. However if we reflect on the fact that children will die at a hundred –Isa 65:20  -  we will realise that the thousand year reign of Jesus, before he hands all authority to God is only two or three generations.

20:12   In saying “the books were opened” we are being directed to Dan 7:10. Given that Revelation here is speaking of the establishment of the kingdom of God we can be sure that is what Daniel is speaking of. Here is a situation where the New Testament use of a passage from the Old Testament explains what that passage is speaking about.

19:3     The rising smoke (of destruction) echoes what Abraham saw when Sodom and Gomorrah was destroyed – Gen 19:28

Revelation equations

Notice that Rev 20:2 is the same as Rev 12:9. These are the only places in scripture where these four separate players are drawn together into one: "the dragon, that serpent of old, who is the Devil and Satan". If it were not for these verses, revealed by the very last book of the Bible, written by the Lord Jesus, we would always have thought of them as separate entities. Put another way, Jesus has revealed to us an extra equation which we didn't have before:

dragon = serpent = devil = satan

We can use this much the same way as we would a mathematical equation, to substitute into any other equation, like this:

"And the Lord God said to the woman, “What is this you have done?” The woman said, “The serpent deceived me, and I ate.” (Gen 3:13)

Could become:

"The devil deceived me, and I ate"

Let's check whether this equation holds true in other scripture. When we enter "devil" and "deceive" into a Bible search program, we straight away get Rev 20:10 "The devil, who deceived them, was cast into the lake of fire", so we can see that the Bible is consistent, from Genesis to Revelation, in the use of this symbology, even without us exploring what these verses mean.

- What other new connections can you make using this equation?

- Can you find any other new equations in Revelation?

Rev 19:11-16.

20:4     Those who were “beheaded” are the two witnesses of Rev 11:15

19:5  Small and great will be in God’s kingdom. Whilst in this life men give honour to the “great” and despise the “small” our God does not work in that way. He is no respecter of persons. He is interested in what is in a man’s heart – He is interested in those that “fear him”.

19:13-14    Notice the contrast. The idea of a vesture dipped in blood contrasts markedly with being clothed in white. The righteousness which is spoken of in the white can only come about through the death of Jesus.

20:15 the mention of names remaining in the book of life would remind those in Sardis of Jesus encouragement - Rev 3:5 – to those who remained faithful.

20:14  We met “death and hell” in 6:8 where it was in power against man. Now ewe see it finally vanquished as the kingdom is established.

19:19 there had already been a gathering together – Rev 16:14. There are similarities and contrasts between the two gatherings. However both show man resisting God and Him overcoming them. This is encouraging. That God willnot lose control in the face of man’s opposition.

19:10 The rituals of the Law were not an end in themselves; there is more to the Law than simply “the letter” (Rom. 7:6) of the Law. The Law, in all its detail, is pervaded with the spirit of Christ and thus testifies concerning Christ. Likewise, all prophecy, even prophecy about some small detail of some obscure nation, testifies of Christ. To study a prophecy without discerning Christ is to study only “the letter” of that prophecy.

19:10 the phrase “Testimony of Jesus Christ” is found four times in Revelation. Rev 1:1,9, Rev 12:17, Rev 19:10. But what does it mean? It is something that the dragon does not like! It is “the spirit of prophecy” – that is it is an understanding – at least in general terms – of God’s plan to rid the world of wickedness.

20:4 There are no visible marks that the world places on its inhabitants. The marks are in their hearts. The marks are seen when we see the lifestyle of those who are caught up in this world’s activities.

We must be aware that even though there are no visible marks our God can see the kind of mark that we are marked with. It is the type of mark that matters. Either we are marked for sighing about the abominations done in the earth – Rev 7:3– or are bound into this world’s way of thinking.

Our reading in Isa 55challenges us in a really pointed way today! It begins with an invitation, “”Come, everyone who thirsts …”  Thirsty for what?  “He who has no money” is invited!  “Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.”  The challenge is made in the 2nd verse, “Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labour for that which does not satisfy?”

What do God’s words through the prophet mean?  Life today is a self-centred life, how few think of their Creator and take any notice of the invitation God gave through Isaiah long ago – but which God has seen preserved for those living in the 21st Century.    The invitation is to “delight yourselves in rich food.” What kind of food – for the stomach or for the mind and heart?  Obviously the latter! Food to give eternal meaning to your life!

Verse 3 tells us!   “Incline your ear, and come to me; hear, that your soul may live; and I will make with you an everlasting covenant …” The prophet is then caused to write of God’s “steadfast, sure love for David. Behold, I made him a witness to the peoples …” [v.4]

To better understand this we must go and deeply consider the promises God made to him – which David perceived were “… spoken also of your servant’s house for a great while to come, and this is instruction for mankind, O Lord GOD!” [2Sam 7:19 It now increasingly clear we are living in that time!

Our Isaiah chapter builds up to a climax in revealing in fairly straightforward wording the power of the promises we read in God’s word. “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater,  so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed …” Isa 55:10-11

We each have that word in our hands – but has it really entered our heart to create a “crop” that God can harvest.  We read in Isaiah 45 that God declared “from my mouth has gone out in righteousness a word that shall not return: (until)’To me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear allegiance.’ [v.23] 

Are you and I living so God’s word is alive in our hearts?  How are we spending our “money“?  Let us all labour for that which will satisfy – eternally.

 For more videos, thoughts, and more on today's daily readings visit..https://christadelphianvideo.org/christadelphian-daily-readings/

20:7-8 We should not just imagine that at the end of the thousand years there will be a conflict in the minds of men and women – shall we serve the one who has blessed us so much or shall we worship self?

The choice is ever real in our own lives now.

20:4  notice again the warning that is given. By inference any who had the “mark of the beast” would be excluded from God’s kingdom.

We ask again which mark have we received?

19:6  this is the last of the five times that we read of alleluia in the book of Revalation. They are all in this chapter. Whilst the word does not occur elsewhere in scripture the Hebrew equivalent is found in “Praise ye the Lord” – typically in PPsa 106:1. So we do not need to wonder what the word means here in Revelation.