Comments for April 8

v.11 - The sons of Korah did not die. God still had a purpose with them or their descendants, therefore they were kept alive. Num16:5, Ex.6:24, 1Chron.6:22-28, also Psalm titles for Psalms 42,44-49.

v. 2 - 64 This detailed numbering was to establish one point - that God keeps his word. None of those who had rebelled at the tie of the first arrival at the land were still alive. It is interesting that Yahweh used the inclination of the people with respect to the Moabitish women to bring about His will. The differences in the two numberings in Numbers and the positions of the tribes around the Tabernacle:

v.64 - This is a negative point, but where it is reported in Deut.4:3-4, we see the point the people were to get hold of. They were alive. It was those that had practised idolatry in the wilderness that had been destroyed. There is always life for those that follow and cleave unto the Lord.

26:3 That Eleazar is mentioned with Moses is an incidental confirmation that Aaron is dead.

:62 The basis for the numbering of the Levites is different from the rest of the congregation. The Levites were numbered from 1 month old whereas the rest of the congregation was numbered from 20 years old. We will remember that whereas the congregation was numbered from 20 years old at the beginning of the wilderness journey the Levites were not numbered on that occasion. 1:17, 47.

26:57-61 This genealogy must have been known to the nation. It's component parts had been laid out before. The people also knew that two of the sons of Aaron had died before the Lord Lev 10:1. Even  those who were too young to remember the event 38 years earlier would have been told. The repetition is to remind Israel that God had made choice of the house of Levi and he would not tolerate carelessness in worship.

V.65  After the taking of the census, we see without a doubt that  Caleb and Joshua are the only ones left of the adult males who left Egypt, fulfilling Num 14:29-30

You may remember from Num 1:46 that there were 603,550 Israelite soldiers aged 20 and above who came out of Egypt, plus the Levites.  In today's chapter there are 601,730 (Num 26:51) who are to cross the Jordan into the Promised Land. The two numbers are almost identical, when the females, the young and the old are taken into consideration.  The point is this:  God caused all of the generation who
came out of Egypt to die in the wilderness, apart from Caleb and Joshua. But for the people who were watching Israel, like Rahab (Josh 2:9-11) , nobody knew about all the deaths.  God punished Israel in private, so that His Name would not lose its power.

The second census, taken at the conclusion of the wilderness journey, revealed that there were less people twenty years or older compared to the first census.  

However, there would have been more had not twenty-four thousand died recently by execution or plague (Num 25:9).

Apart from Moses, Aaron, Eleazar, the Levites, Joshua and Caleb, the oldest person in the congregation would have been fifty-eight years old.
 
Asher's sons were mentioned, but why was Sarah, his daughter, the grand-daughter of Jacob, also mentioned? (vs.44-46 see Gen 46:17)

The most prominent daughter of Asher was probably the prophetess Anna (Luke 2:36-38).

26:1      Remember that Aaron had died before this incident. We are on the border of the land.

V.12 It appears that the tribe of Simeon had been preeminent in the guilt of Baal-peor(Num 25:5), and had consequently been reduced in numbers, they now number some 37,100 less than were recorded in Num 1:23. We see here God's justice, as well as His truth and faithfulness, we see His sweeping justice that reduced the ranks of Simeon; we also see His truth and faithfulness in the extraordinary increase of other tribes (Manasseh, Asher, and Benjamin), so that the posterity of Israel continued a numerous people.

26:53 We might have thought that the record would say ‘the number of the people’ but it actually says ‘names’. In Acts 1:15 the disciples were called ‘names’. Here in Numbers we are being introduced to an idea which passes into Biblical use to speak of those counted by God – See also Rev 3:4 Are amongst the names of those who will not enter the land or are we amongst the names who will?

After a period of some thirty eight years we have another census. We would suggest that the reasons for this would have been, to show that even after the severe judgements that had been placed on them during the time spent in the wilderness, there was a minimal decrease in numbers. It was also taken to preserve the distinction of the tribes or families, and to make arrangements, preparatory to an entrance into Canaan, also  for the distribution of the country according to the population of the tribes.

26:53-56   The division of the land is specified very clearly here. It is clear that the division was not according to personal, human, preference. It would have been easy for the larger tribes to stake a claim to the best land and then reason that their size indicated their choice was best. So whilst the amount of land was according to the number of men in each tribe the location was of God. It is all too easy to try to justify our own preferences without giving regard to the feelings and needs of others.

26:9,11 So the children of Dathan and Abiram disassociated themselves from their parents in the rebellion of Korah. That must have been quite a challenge for them and shows us children who would have heeded Jesus’’ words – Matt 10:37

I came across an interesting observation but I am not sure what significance it might have. 

The number of families from the twelve tribes totals 57. The number of patriarchs, plus Jacob: total 13. The total sum: 57+13 = 70.

That equals the number of Jacob’s household that went to Egypt (Gen 46:27).

26:51 God had promised Abraham –Gen 15:5 - that his seed would multiply as the stars by the nation had shrunk, at least the number of males had shrunk. Thus we see a very clear indication that the promise to Abraham of a multitudinous seed was not to be fulfilled in the wilderness.

26:64 Here is a sad comment upon the wonderful expectations at the beginning of the journey from Egypt when, at Sinai, the nation were numbered – Num 2:32

26:65   The blanket comment in the previous verse is now qualified to take account of Joshua and Caleb who died not in the wilderness even though they were of the age of those that did die. The comment in this verse is not an afterthought. The blanket description of the previous verse is designed to force home the magnitude of the punishment before the exceptions are mentioned.

26:64 The record is very accurate in using the word “man” it was the men who rebelled who died. The women did not.

26:64 Did the realisation that the rebels had all died in the wilderness cause the people who were alive to “number their days” – Psa 90:12 – A Psalm of Moses. Do we ever reflect on those who have lost their faith and feel the need to renew our commitment to the things of God? 

26:19  This chapter is about the inheritance of the land. Those who are numbered will cross Jordan. So the inclusion of the little bit of history regarding Judah and his sons, which draws on the historical details in Genesis 38, is making the point that Judah disregarded the matter of inheritance when he would not give Shelah to Tamar.

26:9     This is the third time men of renown are mentioned. The other two are in  1:16 and 16:2. The point we should note is that the sons of renown mentioned in all three occasions died in the wilderness. There is no value in being important if one does not accept what God says.

26:4  This numbering was not requested by God to show the might of the nation. Rather it highlighted their rebelliousness.

26:1    This is only the second time that the nation had been numbered. The first forty years earlier – Num 1:2. As such the two numberings re like book ends to a narrative. The narrative is the journey from slavery [to sin] to an inheritance [the kingdom] but we see form the journey that Israel took that obedience and faith is a pre-requisite for us. They are written for our benefit – 1Cor 10:11

26:1       So near, yet so far. The plague that God brought on Israel after the counsel of Balaam was the final judgment that destroyed the rebels who refused to enter the land 38 years earlier. In sight of the land of promise their eyes looked elsewhere. Let this be a warning to us.

26:63 Notice it is Moses and Eleazar that numbered the people. Not Moses and Aaron. Aaron is already dead – Num 20:28

26:11 the sons of Korah died not and so we see their sons later in scripture as a faithful group of individuals. On one occasion contrasting their willingness to serve rather than take a leadership role – Psa 84:10 – notice the title of the Psalm.

26:51 So here are the totals. And it is certain that not one of the rebels who rejected God’s offer of the land was still alive at the end of the wilderness journey. Many, maybe, were still alive before the sin associated with Balaam’s counsel. If they were then maybe they thought that they, in sight of the land, had escaped the judgment of God.

God knows those who are His and will preserve them. But those who reject Him and turn to their own pleasures will certainly not enter the “rest” prepared for Hs servants – Heb 4:9

26:1 The nation had been told that the rebels would not enter the land –Num 14:23 – but a significant number of them were still alive even after taking control of the east of Jordan. It was the counsel of Balaam – 31:16 – that was the final stumbling block. And so after the numbering it was found that all the rebels had died, as God had said they would, in the wilderness.

Are we so focussed on the “hope of Israel” that temptations will not distract us from our goal.?

26:10 Whilst Korah rebelled against God his sons did not. They had a challenge. Did they obey their father or God? Clearly they made the correct choice. From the wide destruction that took place when Korah and his company rebelled God was careful to ensure that the faithful were not swallowed up as well as the unrighteous.

We can take comfort that, whilst there is no guarantee that the faithful will not suffer problems, God does know those who are His and makes provision for them. Ultimately His kingdom.

LIFE AND DEATH

It is interesting to see that seven specific deaths are mentioned through this genealogy in Numbers 26: Dathan, Abiram, Korah, Er, Onan, Nadab and Abihu. If these people had obeyed the Lord, all of them would have been heads of families and had positions of honour and responsibility. But instead they chose to rebel and forfeit what was coming to them. They tried to do things their way rather than God’s way.

It is also interesting to note that there are two specific people mentioned as still being alive after the rest of the community had died. They were Joshua and Caleb.

There is one major difference between these two groups of people. The first group who died did not trust in the LORD or obey him. They disobeyed and did things their own way instead of God’s way. But Joshua and Caleb, who outlived the rest of the children of Israel, were faithful, obedient and trusted in God.

There is no middle ground. We cannot please ourselves and be rewarded by God. The choice is one or the other – life or death. Let’s be more like Joshua and Caleb, and by the grace of God, share in the reward he has promised to those who faithfully serve him.

26:10  the destruction of Korah and his company was because of their rebellion. As such they became “a sign”. One might think that the nation would learn from what had happened to Korah and company. However the “sign” did not quell the rebellious spirit of the nation.

In like manner we know the consequences of a rebellious spirit but that knowledge does not quell our rebellion all the time.

We have to confront that spirit in ourselves and strive to quell it by reading and reflecting on His word.

v. 5 - This concept of having respect of persons is alien to the concept of the life in Christ. We are reminded of this on many occasions - Prov.24:23, 28:21, Lev. 19:15, Deut.1:16-17, 16:19, Job 13:7,8, 34:19, Matt.22:16.

v. 13 The counsel of the proverb is to listen to both sides of an issue before making a judgement. It is so easy to listen to one persons viewpoint and conclude that his cause is just only to learn that a more complete picture changes the complexion of the whole issue.

v.10 - This message prevails throughout scripture. We are all reminded constantly of the way that God is there to protect those that turn to Him and dwell with him - having a contrite and humble spirit - see also 2Sam.22:3,51, Psa.18:2, 61:3,4, 91:2, 144:2, Isa.26:4, 57:15

The whole of the chapter is devoted to the matter commented on in last year's comment on v13. The one in :1 who 'separateth himself' is the self righteous individual who withdraws from a situation because he feels it is so bad and yet still has to make his comments about the thing. Either one withdraws completely and has nothing to do with the matter or one remains and deals with the matter from a full understanding of the issues involved.

:19 If we understand the import of this proverb we would be far more careful in how we talk to others about things that we see in them that need to be changed!

18:1 The man who separates himself than meddles is the man who doesn't want to be associated with an issue for fear of being contaminated but still wants to impose his will on those he has separated from.

V.11  The rich man's best friend is wealth. He imagines that wealth is a "strong city," therefore he has no need of God. Those who are righteous have friends of another sort. God is their constant companion, and when He is near they fear no evil.

The slothful man re-occurs again in this chapter. How is it that Solomon knew so much about this character? How is it that he, the great and wise king over all Israel and the surrounding nations, knew so much about laziness and sloth?

I believe the answer is clear when we examine a few facts. This man had been born into a highly successful ruling family. Everything he could desire had been laid down at his feet from his birth. He was the beloved son of David, even more so than any of his brothers. This young man Solomon had everything he wanted at his fingertips. For Solomon, the problem of descending into laziness and folly was a very real one indeed! He needn't lift a finger if he didn't want to! It seems that only the guidance and good influence of his mother stopped him from becoming a bad character like his brothers. Her character was obviously of the highest calibre, being the wife of a very faithful man (2Sam 11:11, 23:39), and the granddaughter of an extremely wise councillor (2Sam 16:23).

But in later life, Solomon was more on his own. His father and grandfather-in-law were dead. He had done everything he wanted to do, and there seemed to be nothing left! (Ecc 2:11-12). His own success would likely have driven him over the years to be more and more like that slothful man. How ironic that he should fall foul of the same affliction that his father had suffered that year when he couldn't find the energy to lead his kingdom into battle; and when late in the day he awoke and took a stroll on his rooftop, wiping the sleep from of his eyes, and spying the beautiful Bathsheba bathing below him?

V.19 No feuds so difficult of adjustment as those of relatives (both natural and spiritual): hence great care should be used to avoid them.

Prov 18:1 says that after careful thought, a person separates himself from the rest of the noisy, busy world, then sets his heart to find wisdom.  The writer infers, that if one continually fills one’s heart with the noise and nonsense of this world, there is little hope of finding wisdom. The exhortation is therefore, “Be still, and know that I am God.” Psa 46:10.

18:8  The ‘talebearer’ is in reality a ‘whisperer’ – see margin. We should never listen to gossip. It damages fellowship and "separateth chief friends." - Prov 16:28

V.12 - Here we have the contrast of pride (leading to downfall) vs humility (leading to honour)

18:14 & similar verses talk about positive & negative outlooks affecting health & state of mind. It is interesting that current research is showing that different parts of the brain are responsible for positive & negative emotions, and that "spiritual" activities such as meditation can increase the positive emotions & improve one's sense of wellbeing. Isn't it amazing that God has made us in such a way that if we spend more time meditating on His ways, and on His Word, and on the joy of our salvation, it affects us in a positive way!

18:6-7 The fool, whilst calling for judgment upon others in haste ends up having to ‘eat his words’. There is always value in giving a lot of thought before responding to a question about others. Today in society the trend is to give slick quick answers. We should take care with our mouths – the talebearer – next verse – does not receive any commendation from God.

18:2 The fool’ of this verse is the one who ‘separateth himself’ in the previous verse. The one who meddles without involvement acquires the status of being a ‘fool’.

18:11 Riches are but an illusion. Whilst this world places great reliance upon wealth and consider it to be a fortress such an attitude is delusional. It is all his ‘imagination’ as the RV translated ‘conceit’

Vs.10,11 Yahweh is truly a place of safety. The rich think that their wealth will protect them and have no need for Yahweh. But when disaster comes, their wealth cannot save them. Such was the plight of the rich in the fall of Jerusalem; and such shall be the plight of the rich in the coming judgment of Yahweh (Eze 7:19).

V.13 I am sure we have all heard someone jumping in with a response before hearing the whole matter. We should always be patient and wait, digesting the material before we respond (James 1:19).

V.17 The one who states his case first will seem right, unless it is challenged by someone else.

V.19 We should be very careful not to offend our brethren in a personal manner, or put a stumbling block that discourages their faith (1Cor 8:13). We might lose them and it would be our fault. But, if brethren are offended because we speak the Truth in Christ and are lost, then no fault accrues to us. Jesus spoke the Truth and many took offence at Him (Matt 13:57).

18:8 We should be ever so careful in what we say about our fellows. We might never think of sticking a knife into their flesh but we are doing the equivalent of that if we gossip about them.

18:9  Whilst this is clearly true in a secular way it is also true in spiritual things. Sloth wastes time God has given us to serve Him.

Prov 18:21

"Death and life are in the power of the tongue..."

David Yount, a reporter for the News Sentinel, had this headline: “Lies, lies and more lies.” David reveals that, “Researchers at the University of Massachusetts reveal that people these days tell one lie every three minutes their mouths are open… It appears that the only remedy for dishonesty is to be fast asleep…”!

It is interesting to note that both Proverbs and the book of James devote large sections to instruct us in regards to this relatively small member! If we didn’t know why before - we do now.

The tongue has great potential for good or evil, life or death (James 3:5). When used properly the tongue can mend fences, heal broken hearts, and encourage those who are in need of encouragement. Think of the responsibility and ramifications of this revelation!

Our words are an overflow of our hearts. Godly individuals, who fear the Lord, abide in the Vine, and yield to the Spirit, bring forth words that are a fountain of life because they truly are following the One who is “the Life” (John 14:6).

It is so easy to have our brain in neutral and mouth in full gear, but our tongue must be aligned with the Word knowing that by our words we shall be justified, and by our words we shall be condemned (Matt 12:37).

18:4   ‘deep waters’ and ‘a wellspring’ are contrasted because the deep water is not ‘living’ as is the ‘wellspring’ which is a fountain of God’s right – see Psa 36:9, Prov 13:14

18:1   The word translated “intermeddleth” <1566>  only occurs three times in Scripture – all in the book of Proverbs.  The other two are

17:14   Meddled

20:3     Meddling

1. Prov 18:1 - a person who separates himself to seek out his own desire, not yielding to the wisdom of God (Jude 1:18,19,16).

2. Prov 18:2 (NIV) - "A fool finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions."

3. Prov 18:3 - three different words for "shame" ("contempt"<937>, "ignominy"<7036>, "reproach"<2781>).

4. Prov 18:4 - deep waters perhaps suggest concealment (see Prov 20:5) in contrast to the water of the Word and living water (Eph 5:26;John 7:37-38;4:10-14;Rev 7:16-17;22:17).

5. Prov 18:5 (NIV) - "It is not good to be partial to the wicked or to deprive the innocent of justice."

6. Prov 18:6-7;Matt 12:36-37.

7. Prov 18:8 - "wounds"(<3859> according to Brown-Driver-Briggs means "to gulp, swallow greedily") so the words of a talebearer go deep into our being and our memory.

8. Prov 18:9 - being spiritually slothful is perhaps connected to being a great "waster"(<4889> meaning "destroyer, ruiner").

9. Prov 18:12 - pride vs humility; pride precedes punishment; Christ led with humility prior to his being elevated to the right hand of God; Christ will soon return to earth to rule as priest-king in his Father's kingdom with Jerusalem the capital (Isa 2:2-4).

10. Prov 18:13 - the mouth is open and eager but the ears and mind are closed (Luke 22:66-71 - our Lord's matter was answered before it was heard).

11. Prov 18:14 - the mind of a person can handle sickness but a stricken or depressed mind who can bear?

12. Prov 18:15 - seeking knowledge and getting knowledge (Matt 7:7-15;1Cor 8:2).

13. Prov 18:16 - a gift makes one welcome in high places (example 1Kin 10:1-2).

14. Prov 18:17 - listen to both sides.

15. Prov 18:18 - asking  God's guidance when there is a difference or dispute.

16. Prov 18:19 - try to be diplomatic, try not to offend (Prov 15:23;25:11;Gal 6:1-2;Matt 18:15-17;Luke 17:3-4).

17. Prov 18:21 - those who love the power of the tongue will reap the reward (the stakes are life and death) of what they say or listen to (Gen 3:1-6;Matt 12:36-37;Eph 4:29).

18. Prov 18:22 (compare with 1Cor 7:1,6-8).

19. Prov 18:23 - riches and rudeness.

20. Prov 18:24 (NIV) - "A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." - two types of friends (Jer 38:22 "All the women left in the palace of the king of Judah will be brought out to the officials of the king of Babylon. Those women will say to you: “‘They misled you and overcame you—
those trusted friends of yours. Your feet are sunk in the mud; your friends have deserted you.’" - vs - Jonathan was a friend who stuck close to David, Luke 10:25-37, what a friend we have in Jesus).

18:17  It is all too easy, on hearing one side of an argument to side with the person who has first spoken to us. The wise man will always listen to all sides of an issue before making any comment. 

18:13   The counsel of this proverb should have been in the minds of the tribes who challenged the behaviour of the tribes on the east of Jordan when they built the altar – Josh 22:15-20

18:10   The Proverb  here is speaking in a figure. It is confidence that God will judge right that causes the faithful man to trust Him rather than seek to obtain his own justice.

Prov 18:12

“Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.”

“Coming events cast their shadows before them.” This is a common saying and this verse teaches this very truth. Destruction casts a shadow in the form of pride; honour casts a shadow in the form of humility.

The world teaches us about the importance of self-love, self-esteem, and self-confidence. We recognize their haughtiness, pride and self-righteousness. They are braggarts, arrogant, conceited, and pompous. They are easily recognized. "By their fruits ye shall know them" (Matt 7:16,20).

This kind of teaching is directly in opposition to Yahweh’s Word. In it we learn that we are to love Yahweh first, others second, and ourselves last. We learn our esteem should be to Yahweh first, His Word second, others third, and we last. We learn our confidence should be only of what God can do through us, with us, or for us, not in ourselves (Psa 127:1,2).

Pride brings destruction (cf. Prov 16:18), humility brings honour (cf. Prov 15:33). Consequences come if we think too highly of ourselves. The choice is ours. We know how Yahweh dealt with Pharaoh, Sennacherib, and Nebuchadnezzar. Yahweh resists the proud, and gives grace to the humble (cf. 1Pet 5:5,6). Which do we prefer?

18:22 A similar Proverb – 8:35 – teaches similarly about finding wisdom. The emphasis is not particularly on a natural partner. Rather it is a lifelong companion who [which] will bring life.

FRIENDS FOREVER (Prov 18:24)

In life we may have many acquaintances or so-called friends, or we may be lucky we may have a friend that is closer than a brother. I think deep down we all long for this kind of friendship and yet in today's society many people feel lonely and cut off. In this iphone generation, many young people may be losing the art of meaningful conversation, which really draws friends together. 

The New York Times recently reported that we live in a technological universe in which we are always communicating and yet we have sacrificed conversation for mere connection between our devices. It's easy to fall into this trap. These little devices most of us carry around are so powerful that they change not only what we do, but also who we are. We’ve become accustomed to a new way of being “alone together.” 

And yet scriptures teaches us how true friendship is developed - and its based on being friendly - listening, caring and offering help - in good times and in bad. Instead of wishing we could find this kind of friend, we should seek in becoming this kind of friend. There are many people who need our friendship. Ask God to reveal them to you and then take on the challenge of being a true friend, as Jesus was to us.

18:24 Now Prov 17:17 is developed a little further. When family turn away as happened in Jesus’ life true friends do not waver.

Prov 18:10

“The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous runneth into it and are safe.”

“Not only in the sense made familiar by the apostolic institutions, but in all senses, the name of the LORD is a tower of defence. A man puts on the divine name and receives the forgiveness of sins and the hope of the undefiled inheritance; but if he stops short here, he will have no experience of the fullness of the truth expressed by Solomon. In how many situations and experiences of life do we find ourselves assailed, within and without, till utterly broken down and in despair almost. ‘Then I remembered God.’ Such was David’s resource; and such will the righteous find to be effectual still: a protection against adversity, a consolation in distress, a succor in temptation, and unfailing strength in the last hour of weakness. But, finally, will the righteous find everlasting refuge when, at the Lord’s coming, they run into the glorious name that cometh from far—the Lord Jesus, who is not only a mighty and precious friend, but more than friend can ever be to friend in present experience—a new nature which we shall put on, a glory with which we shall be arrayed, a temple we shall enter, a body in which incorporate, we shall be as in a tower—safe forever.”

Robert Roberts

18:2     the one who discovers himself is a self centred rather than God centred person.

18:1 The Proverbs speaks of the one who, though not willing to get involved in a matter still has a lot to say about it. This Proverbs is the basis of one of the Proverbs that the men of Hezekiah copied out – 26:6-19

18:3 the Proverbs continue developing the theme of the previous verses. The “wicked” is the one who has his own agenda and who will seek to impose that agenda onto the matter being discussed with no regard to whether it actually relates to the topic being spoken about.

18:13-19 There are always at least two sides to a story. However it is all too easy to jump to conclusions and then voice those conclusions, only to find out our unwise judgment a little while later then the whole story emerges. When someone is making their case they will ALWAYS present their case in a way which is favourable to them (:17). However a rash jumping to conclusions alienates the other party. Recovering that offended party is an uphill battle (:19) and could be avoided by not jumping to conclusions based on one side of an argument.

18:14  How true this is. One we are depressed or unhappy it is so easy to slide further into despondency.

But is there a way out of this downward cycle. Clinical depression is something different to what is being spoken of here. There are times when we can employ strategies to lift our spirit. James 5:13 gives the inspired counsel that prayer is an activity that should be implemented at this time.

18:1-9 There are individuals who say that they will stand aside from a conflict, claiming that they are in the right. But then they join in the argument making unwise and arrogant statements which dominate  the process denigrate others who are involved. In fact they are  probably more involved in the debate than anyone else. Their arrogant stance intimidates others into subjection. Truth is not their desire. Rather it is self-importance.

1 v. 9-11 continues the theme of righteous judgement that we had in Proverbs. We judge by our love for each other, using our knowledge so that we might approve things which are excellent - what a responsibility we take on when we become sons of God. v.11 tells us that this is to the glory and praise of God. Ps.92:12-14, Luke 13:6-9, John 15:8, Isa.60:21, 61:3,11.

1 v. 1 In almost all of his letters Paul introduces himself as an 'apostle of Jesus Christ'. These are the only three epistles of Paul in which he does not introduce himself as an apostle of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1Thessalonians 2Thessalonians Philemon The question of his apostleship was a major issue in the first century. The absence in Philippians might indicate his authority was not in question there. However with respect to Thessalonica it is a little puzzling as he warned them about letters which purported to come from him. Maybe, despite the warning, he knew that his authority was not in question. maybe the letters purporting to come from Paul were sent to Thessalonica as the writer of the fraudulent letters knew that that the Thessalonians would not question anything which came from Paul.

2 v.3 'strife and vain glory' highlights the major theme of the epistle to the Philippians. There was strife amongst some, at least of them. Look for references to unity throughout the whole of the letter to help you to appreciate the reason for the letter.

1:3-5 Paul prays to God to thank Him for the brethren and sisters at Philippi and for their fellowship. Even though Paul is not with them he feels their benefit.

1:6-8 He feels strongly for them. So strongly, in fact, that he is concerned for their eternal well being. This raises the question as to whether we love our brethren and sisters to such an extent. Our fellowship with our brethren and sisters is more than mere friendship. Our love for them should be such that we pray for their spiritual health and their eternal wellbeing.

2:1,2 An understanding of fellowship requires that we be like minded. On the contrary, if like mindedness is not present fellowship is absent. Not that we are to agree on all things. We are individuals. However like mindedness should be seen in our singleness of mind in our service to the Father. Our decisions should not be based on petty likes and dislikes. In all our thoughts and actions we should realise that we are trying to maintain the 'unity of the body' - that is the body of Christ, the whole ecclesia, not just our own meeting.

ch 1 - THE GOSPEL NET

One of Paul's aims was to advance the gospel. As he travelled from place to place he taught as many people as he could the good news of Christ and the kingdom of God. Paul also encouraged others to join in with his preaching. People like Timothy, Mark, Barnabus, Silas, Titus and Luke all travelled around with Paul and helped him spread the gospel. There were also people in the places Paul visited who continued the work that he had started in their city. It is, after all, what we call the "Great Commission" to "go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation." What Paul ended up doing was to establish a huge spreading gospel net where the people convinced of the gospel would reach out and share it with others, who in turn do the same. We need to become part of that net to spread the word of God.

If we told two people the gospel message today, and tomorrow they told two people each, and each of them told two, within 10 days 1023 people will have heard the gospel message. We need people to preach and reach people for Christ. Paul says, "The important thing is that in every way ... Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice."

Let's go to it. Go, Tell the world!

1:6 How often do we begin something never to finish it? Starting is easy. It is the continuing that is the hard part!

2:19 In saying that he 'trusted in the Lord' Paul is identifying himself with Hezekiah (2 Kings 18:5) - notice the other quotations of language from the time of Hezekiah.

ch 2 - GET ON WITH EACH OTHER

One of the strong themes that comes out from this letter to the Philippians is that of unity. Reading between the lines we can see that the Philippians were a bit like us. There were personality clashes, selfishness and pride which caused little divisions within the church and prevented them working together as a team in unity as Christ intended. So Paul gave them some gentle pointers as to how to get on with each other, starting first with a plea from his heart to their (and our) conscience. "If you love Christ then give me joy by being united," is essentially what he says. Do we love Christ? Are we united with our brothers and sisters?

If we want to be united, which of course we do, then we must get our priorities right and concentrate on what is really important: being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. We must be selfless - not selfish, serving one another in humility and in love and taking care of each other. We need to stop complaining and grumbling because in doing that we spread discord and dissatisfaction.

Are there divisions where you are? Even small ones? It's up to us to do our part to get on with each other. "Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called the Sons of God."

1:27 The 'conversation' that  should be becoming of those in Christ is, in fact, the lifestyle of the believer. Not simply the things they say. Paul is setting the scene for things he is going to talk about later in the letter. There was a real problem of division in the ecclesia.

2:3  'strife and vainglory' contrasts powerfully with 2:77 'made himself of no reputation ...' If we could only develop the mind which does not see ourselves as important then all our inter personal problems would vanish.

 2:11  "every tongue" In V.10 we have "every knee." In every way He shall be acknowledged as Lord, He will no longer be like a servant. V.7 At that time Christ will be given "a name which is above every name." V.9

1:20,21 Paul has been mulling over his life in Christ. He was prepared to die in the service of his Lord.  Death would bring him to Christ, but living would allow him to be of service to his brethren (1:23-24). He assured his brethren that he would continue to be with them (1:25).

1:23 Paul is not saying that at the point of death, he (his soul) would depart and be with Christ in heaven. He is saying that the next waking moment after death, he will be with Christ on earth to live forever (1Cor 15:52-54, 1Thess 4:16).  
 
2:6 Trinitarians use this verse to say that Christ and God are one.  They put their stock in the word form (Gr. morphe).  They claim that morphe means essential nature (Very God in their terminology).

Morphe is used only two other times in the scriptures: v.7 and Mark 16:12.

2:7 Christ took on the form of a servant.  As he was human he already had the essential nature of a servant (slave).

In Mark 16:12 Christ appeared to the two on the road to Emmaus in another (altered) form (so they could not recognize him, see Luke 24:13-16). If form means essential nature, then it cannot be altered.

And so form must mean something else.  It means characteristics or demeanour.  The Lord had the (spiritual) characteristics of His Father and the demeanour of a servant. Besides, if 2:6 is read correctly, we see that Jesus did not desire equality with God: did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped (ESV).

1:12 The things that happened to Paul are described in Acts 16:12-33

2:7 In saying that Jesus ‘made himself …’ we learn a lesson. There is no virtue in taking the position of the servant if it is imposed upon us by others. Service to the Father is a conscious choice that has to be made in the same way that Jesus chose to be a servant.

GOOD COMES FROM BAD
 
It must have been extremely frustrating for Paul when he was detained in Rome for two years as he waited for his trial. His life up until the time he was initially imprisoned in Jerusalem had been 100% active in the Lord's service. He had preached the gospel, moved from city to city, encouraged churches and done all he could to encourage the growth of the church. It was as if Paul could not sit still for a minute while there was work to be done.
 
Now in prison he could not go out and actively spread the word as he was accustomed to doing. His mind would have been full of lost opportunities while he was forced to stay still. But even bad things turn out good when God is involved. While Paul may have missed opportunities to preach the gospel and to encourage the believers, he also saw some of the advantages of being in chains.
 
He said, "Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear through the whole palace guard that I am in chains for Christ. Because of my chains, most of the brothers have been encouraged to speak the word more courageously and fearlessly." (Phil 1:12-14)
 
It is no different when bad things happen to us. Because of them the word can be preached to people we might otherwise never have met, and through our experience our brothers and sisters can be encouraged.

We spend a lot of time whining & complaining about our lot in life. The difficult circumstances, and they may actually be difficult or perhaps not so difficult but become magnified in our minds, in which we find ourselves. Here Paul is telling us to see the good in whatever situation we find ourselves, and use it to witness for Christ, and to realise that even then God is working in us to bring us situations that could help us to grow & mature 2:13

1:1, 2:7 Paul is teaching us what Jesus tried to teach his disciples Matt 20:25-28, John 13:3-17 about the philosophy of those who were not believers of the true God, vs those were. The attitude is not one of being lord but of service. Even God himself serves us/gives us all things  Acts 17:25 because He loves us. So in becoming a servant, Jesus modelled himself on the attitude of his Father rather than on the attitude that flesh would naturally have, as exhibited first in Eden.

1:15 In talking about ‘some’ who preached of ‘envy’ Paul is introducing principles that the ecclesia would assent to so that later – Phil 4:2 – he would be able to focus on an actual problem having already obtained the agreement of the ecclesia to the correct principles.

Philippi was a Roman colony, which is probably why Paul ensured the magistrates came in person to ask him to leave the prison. By this he ensured that the new ecclesia he was leaving behind would be well respected in the city. Now, when Paul writes to them, he thanks God for their fellowship in the gospel (Phil 1:4,5). The new ecclesia is working well together. He assures them that God is working in them (Phil 2:13).

1:5       The fellowship ‘from the first day’ doubtless reference to Lydia’s hospitality – Acts 16:15

1:2 Just a little point. In many of the letters Paul sends greetings from God and Jesus but never from the holy spirit. God and Jesus are Father and son – individuals with their own personality. The holy spirit is God’s power and has no personality. Those who would support the idea of the doctrine of the Trinity should ponder on this sort of introduction to the letters.

The famous battle that pitted Augustus and Mark Anthony against Brutus and Cassius took place in or near Philippi. Augustus won and the people of Philippi became freemen.

1:15 Those who preached Christ in envy and strife (rivalry) were the Judaizers who insisted that believers adhere to the rites under the Law, e.g. circumcision. The preachers of good will were those who understood that the dispensation of the Law had been completed in Christ.

1:23 the phrase desire to depart means literally desire to weigh anchor (set sail). Paul uses this marine metaphor to show his desire to be free from what is securing (anchoring) him to this fleshly life. Death would be the release, for the next waking moment he would be before Jesus who had now returned from heaven. Then he would be changed from mortality to immortality and be truly free.

IF

The important word is "If". "If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion..." (Phil 2:1). This "if" statement is followed by "then", but before we consider the "then", we need to determine if we are part of the "if's." Do we have any encouragement from being united with Christ? Do we have any comfort from his love? Do we have fellowship with the Spirit? Or do we have any tenderness and compassion? The very fact that we are reading these words shows that we probably do fit in with one of these "if" categories.

So now that we know that something here applies to us, we need to take special note of the instruction that follows. It is not an instruction given by just anyone. It was given by Paul, and inspired by God. We need to take note! He says, "Then make my joy complete by being likeminded, showing the same love, being one in spirit and in purpose." (Phil 2:2) This is a bit harder. If we fit into the people Paul is talking to, we need to make the effort - every effort - to be like minded with fellow believers. We need to find the things we have in common with each other and build on them, not focus on our differences.

We all love the Lord, so let's love him together in our many, varied and different ways. In doing so we make Paul's joy complete and at the same time we will bring joy to our God.

Phil 2:30 could be taken as a sarcastic comment: "someone else had to provide what you should have given me" but I don't think Paul meant it this way. The whole of the letter is positive about the Philippians, especially see 4:1 "my joy and crown" and 4:14 "you shared in my distress". Maybe the answer is in 4:10 "your care for me has flourished again". They possibly hadn't realised that Paul was in regular need, not just in need of a one off gift. The lesson for us is that even though we might be good at providing for immediate cases of need, that provision sometimes has to be ongoing, or else another "giver" might end up being overburdened, as Epaphroditus was (2:25-30).

1:23 Whilst in Caesarea Paul had a dilemma because he had the offer of going to Jerusalem to answer the charges laid against him – Acts 25:9 – but the Jews had made the request that Paul be sent to Jerusalem so they could kill him – Acts 25:2-3. So Paul appealed to Caesar – Acts 25:11 knowing that if he had agreed to go to Jerusalem he would have been killed and all his problems would have been over. This is the dilemma he is speaking. Should he allow the Romans to send him to Jerusalem to ‘depart and be with Christ’ or appeal to Caesar and ‘abide in the flesh’

1:6    Our spiritual development is part of the work of God in Christ. Not in some mystical way but God called us to be heirs of the promises. It is our responsibility to work on developing the right mind.

1:30  The decision that Paul contemplates and resolves in Phil 1:21-24 is now presented as an example to the church.

1:19    “I know ... salvation” quotes Job’s confidence – Job 13:16. So Paul is using the example of Job to encourage the believers in Philippi.

 Phil 2:16.

2:8    Paul is opposing the idea that a man can be saved by observing the Law of Moses. He is not saying that we need do nothing when we are baptised as we are saved automatically by God’s grace. Rather we need to “do” the works of Christ which are inward things. It is the way we think and behave, even in private, that shows an appreciation of the grace of God.

2:20-22         The way in which Timothy is presented as one whose life was a proof of his reliability is the sort of proof that is required of those who will serve God when Paul talks of such being “proved” – 2Tim 3:10

1:3-5    Paul was instrumental in the formation of the ecclesia at Philippi. However, having started the work there he continues to remember them all the time. In this we see a commitment which extends from its inception and therefore is a lesson for us. Once we have started a work we should continue it until the work is no longer necessary.

Phil 1:15-18 - the motives for preaching may differ but the important result is that the Gospel gets preached.

Phil 1:20-24 - torn between wanting to die and looking forward to the resurrection or toiling in this mortal life sharing the Gospel (Phil 1:6,10;Phil 2:16;Phil 3:10,20,21).

Phil 2:19-21 - everyone seeks their own interests, but Timothy endeared himself to Paul by unselfishly looking out for the interests of others (in this case the Philippians).

2:1     Paul, by introducing this section with the word “if” is not doubting the truth of the gospel. Rather he is challenging the Philippians to follow through the consequences of the gospel.

2:3-4      Doubtless there were none amongst those who heard the letter being read to them would have disagreed with what Paul says here. Paul is setting the scene, gaining agreement, so that He can draw attention – Phil 4:2 – to a real problem that they had. It is all too easy for us to agree to the principles but then ignore them when it suits ourselves. So we should not be too had on those two believers mentioned by name.

A PRAYER

"And this is my prayer: That your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ - to the glory and praise of God." (Phil 1:9-11).

Have you ever been praying for someone and wondered how you could best pray for them? Paul's prayer for the believers in Philippi gives us a great pattern to follow.

1. Pray for their knowledge of God to grow so that their love and insight will overflow from them.

2. Pray that they will have the wisdom to choose well when they are faced with choices and temptations.

3. Pray that God will keep them from evil and help them to live pure and blameless lives until Christ comes.

4. Pray that their lives would be profitable and fruitful in Christ.

5. Pray that they would be found righteous and giving glory to God at all times.

If only people prayed like that for us! So let's start the trend by praying these five points for each other.

2:19   Do we think our prayers for our fellow believers can help them in their desire to be in God’s kingdom? Paul seems to indicate that the prayers of the Philippians would assist him in that respect.

2:8      Jesus was never disobedient. However we can see him becoming obedient I the Garden of Gethsemane when he would prefer not to die but consigned his own will to the will of his Father  - Matt 26:39,42

1:22       so we see that those who came to John were a deputation from the Pharisees. A group who, as time progressed, became very jealous of Jesus.

2:15        In speaking of the believers as the light of the world Paul is quoting Matt 5:14

UNITY

Paul and Timothy prayed for the believers at Philippi. This was their prayer:"That your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ - to the praise and glory of God." (Phil 1:9-11).

The love they prayed about was going to help the believers each understand one another more, to grow like Christ and to ultimately give glory to God.

A little later in the chapter they were given some instructions:"Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel, without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you." (v.27-28).

The love that Paul and Timothy prayed on the Philippians would see them unite as one, standing firm for the faith together as one man. We can't do that if we don't know and love each other. So let us pray for love, insight and understanding, and be united together for Jesus Christ.
 

WILLING AND ABLE

In one breath he seems to say that we need to do it ourselves, in the next, it's taken right out of our hands. Listen: "Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed - not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence - continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose." (Phil 2:12-13).

How do we work out our salvation? Do it with fear and trembling, bowing down at the name of Jesus and making him Lord of our life. (v.9-11). And as we work out our salvation in that way, God will work in us. The Good News Bible puts it well: "God is always at work in you to make you willing and able to obey his own purpose." (v.13).

As we honour Jesus and make him Lord of our life, God will make us willing to obey. Not only will he make us willing to obey, but he will give us the ability to obey as well.

So often we want to do things our own way. Sometimes we find serving the Lord a chore. But when God is working in us and when we honour Jesus as we should, it will not only be a pleasure to serve, but we will be completely empowered to do God's will.

So let's begin the process with fear and trembling, bowing before Jesus and making him Lord of our life.
 

2:17 The Greek translated “offered” <4689> (spendō) means ‘pour out’. The “sacrifice” refers primarily to the peace offering. The thing poured out upon the sacrifice was a drink offering of varying parts of “an hin of wine” (Num. 15:5,7,10). Wine represents joy: “And wine that maketh glad …” (Ps. 104:15); “their heart shall rejoice as through wine” (Zech. 10:7). Paul’s joy, “I joy, and rejoice with you all” (2:17), was the spiritual equivalent of the drink offering.

2:15      The ideas of Matt 10:16 and particularly the word “harmless” are used here by Paul.

Phil 2:6

“Who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God.”

A reader writes: “… My concern is that the "new" concept of praying to Jesus will lead to us leaving our Heavenly Father out of the picture and exalt Jesus to God if this practice is left unchecked as generations go by or as younger believers hear this.   We have had discussions in the last few years in trying to hear why this is happening with those that promote it and also to try to direct them to the old paths which we really need to stay on. Seems to be an itching ears syndrome. My resolve in reading these verses today in particular, will help me through God's wisdom to lead by example in my prayers and in renewed discussions with some of these brothers.”

My reply: … To pray to Jesus and not to God opens Pandora’s Box, as it actually feeds into the Trinity, in that they are declaring Jesus equal to God! It also feeds into the “clean-flesh theory,” and contradicts numerous Scriptural passages! (John 14:28; 1Cor 11:3). Furthermore, if we are “heirs of God” and “joint heirs” with Christ, may we claim equality with God too? If C [Jesus] equals A [God] and B [disciples] equals C [Jesus] then B [disciples] equals A [God]! The problem with this is that while mathematically the formula is correct, scripturally speaking, this equation is completely built on a wrong premise! We can see how absurd this is! We are dealing with a multiple of false issues, which completely undermine what Christadelphia stands for! The deception is very subtle and this line of thinking could eventually lead to other false doctrines (cf. 1Cor 5:6; Gal 5:7-9)!

Which is greater, the gift or the altar that sanctifies the gift? (Matt 23:19; cf. Exo 29:37). Christ, the only begotten of the Father, is our gift from the Father (2Cor 9:15; John 3:16). It was at the altar that God was approached in Old Testament times (cf. Gen 12:7,8; Exo 20:24; Psa 43:4), it is only at the Christ-altar that we may now approach the Father, and an altar will be built again during the Millennium for this express purpose (Eze 43:13-27, note vv. 19,27).

Phil 2:6 is not saying that Jesus is equal to God in the sense of rank. How are the immortalized saints equal with the angels? Scripture tells us it is not about rank, but about immortality and service (Luke 20:36). Being “equal” to angels does not change the fact that angels and the immortalized saints are still under authority to God and Christ (1Pet 3:22)! As ministering spirits, angels work under God’s authority as outlined by God, and as the immortalized saints will, and as Jesus does – operate under the will and authority of the Father, which God gave him (John 5:26,27)! In fact, “equal” should have been translated as, “like.” How are we like? By being of the “same mind,” using the same approach Jesus had toward the Father’s command and will (John 8:28.29; John 17:21-24; Rom 15:3; Phil 2:5), and by our being in the image of Christ, who is the express image of the Father. We make every effort to guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus that we may reflect him in character (Rom 8:29; 2Cor 3:18; Col 1:15. We are “one” with Christ, who is “one” with the Father. This does not change the hierarchy, as given by God and reiterated by Paul (Gen 3; 1Cor 11:3-10), but stands!

The apostle Paul, who was taught by Jesus Christ, himself, (Gal 1:12), who in turn was taught of God (John 8:28), is begging us to avoid those who teach contrary to the Word (Rom 16:17; 2Thess 3:14; cf. Phil 3:17,18), and the method is given to us in Matt 18:15-17; Titus 3:10. It’s executing is swift; it does not drag on for months or years. Our obedience to God comes first, but sometimes we think we are more loving and merciful in dealing with false teachings within. We are to “avoid them” (Rom 16:17 and outside of fellowship continue if they are willing to listen to us regarding sound doctrine, comparing Scripture with Scripture, and not we to them, in efforts to bring them back to the Truth, and nothing but the Truth as it is in Jesus (Eph 4:21). These are all commands, not options, and when we fail in obedience of these commands is when troubles ensue and false doctrines arise creating doubt and havoc among the brotherhood…

Jesus specifically says to, “pray to thy Father… pray ye: Our Father… (Matt 6:6,9; Luke 11:1,2); we are to pray to the Father in Jesus’ name, and when we do, this glorifies the Father (John 14:13; John 15:7,8)! We have no Scriptural authority from God, Christ, and the apostles to change the manner in which we ought to pray. It is nothing short of human devising to teach otherwise!

1:7“in my heart” is rather more than just occasionally thinking about the believers in Philippi. It is a state of mind. Paul had an emotional connection with the believers in Philippi  which impacted on his daily life. When he left Philippi he did not forget them. How important to us are friendships with fellow believers? Do we work to nurture those friendships or are they just casual “how are you” maters

1:2  When we appreciate that God is the Creator of everything – there is no-one more important or powerful than Him – but we have a close relationship with Him. That of being sons (and daughters) of the Creator of the universe! What a privilege.

1:20  Christ was to be “manifest” in Paul’s body by the way in which he lived the gospel. That is showed the character of Jesus in his daily living. The same is true of us – or should be.

2:3 "... count others more significant than yourselves." How do we do elevate others above ourselves, unfeignedly?

A suggestion: See each of our brothers and sisters as Christ. After all, Christ died for each of them, sees them as his brothers and sisters and considers anything done to them as being done to him. "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me" Matthew 25:40.

2:26  we gain an insight into the level of Epaphroditus’ “heaviness” when we realise it is the same word used of Jesus in Gethsemane – Matt 26:27, Mark 14:33 – the word is only used 3 times in the New Testament.

Phil.1 vs.15-16 There appears to be two groups within the ecclesia. "Some indeed preached Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will. The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds:”

Phil 2:11

A reader writes:

Loving greetings at the end of another year in the Master’s service.

I was browsing through your comments back in June and caused me to write and ask your opinion on the name of our Master.

I have been troubled for a long time as I hear the closing of prayers “in Jesus”, “in Jesus Name”, “through Jesus” and other variations that do not acknowledge the rightful name of “the Lord Jesus Christ” and other variations that acknowledge He who was the Anointed of Yahweh…

Your brother by Yahweh's mercy.

My reply, which I’ll just get right to it.

“And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”  (Phil 2:11)

“Every,” # <3956> pas, “all… “whatsoever…”

“Tongue,” # <1100>, gloss, “… by implication, a language.”

We read in Acts 2:3,4, “And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.”

“Other,” # <2087>, heteros, “… other or different… some, strange.”  {tongue]

“Tongues,” # <1100>, pas, “all… whatsoever…” 

Firstly, ancient Hebrew had no vowels, and Yeshua is a modern reconstruction based solely on Hebrew pronunciation. The common language spoken in Roman Judea during Christ and the Apostles’ time was Aramaic, therefore, the pronunciation would have sounded different. They pronounced Jesus’ name “Isho.”

Secondly, The New Testament was originally written in koine Greek, the universal language, used throughout the Roman Empire since Alexander the Great conquered during his time spreading not only the Greek language, but also their culture. The Greek word for Jesus was pronounced, “Iisous,” Strong’s # <2424>. Thus, the Greek name was passed down to us by the Holy Spirit filled apostles! The Latin word, for Jesus is, Iesus, a transliteration from the Greek into Latin, and from this we get the English, Jesus! If the name, Jesus, is wrong, and only the name, Yeshua is right and proper for us to use, then the apostles and Christ’s disciples were all wrong, and if wrong, the very foundation of the New Testament, the living and breathing inspired word of God, is shaken!

In our day we have four separate Jewish groups: Ashkenazic, (originated from Medieval Germany), Sephardic, (originally from Spain), Mizrahim, (Eastern Orientals, Iran, Yemen), and Ethiopian Jews each having their sub-groups, that differ in dialect, culture, and traditions! The “traditional Jewish language, whether Yiddish, Ladino, or Farsi (Persian)… join social clubs based on their ethnic heritage.” Sephardic, Ashkenazic, Mizrahi and Ethiopian Jews | My Jewish Learning/ ! Which group did Jesus belong to? Neither! He is a Judean from the tribe of Judah, or, if you prefer, Yeshua from the tribe of Yehudah. It was the Hebrew Roots Movement that claimed Jesus is a corrupt word used by Christians and that the Messiah’s name is Yeshua. While it is true for Hebrew, Jesus, in the English, is not a corrupt word, as some Christians, as well as Christadelphians, have come to embrace! Those who insist on only using Yeshua are Judaizers! While we identify ourselves with the ancient Hebrew Patriarchs, we do not identify ourselves with the modern Israelis still waiting for their Messiah. Christ, his apostles and disciples were commissioned not to shepherd the Jews as Jews, but to turn them from Judaism to the faith of Christ, that they might become members of Christ’s ecclesia, which is his body.    

Whatever tongue the Word is spoken to or written for, was the purpose of Acts 2:4-28 – whatever their language. There is no right or wrong language to use. For example: To say in Hebrew “Yeshua, hu shmu shel ben ha'alohim” to an Italian, who would say, “Gesu, nome del fondatore della religione cristiana, figlio di Dio e redentore dell'umanità,” to a Hebrew, is like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. It doesn’t work! Neither would have any idea what was being said, and yet, both are correct! Paul wrote that if we speak in an unknown tongue to someone who doesn’t speak that language, then, at best, we must have someone to interpret for us and “let all things be done unto edifying” (1Cor 14:1-33). Even at Jesus’ crucifixion, the sign above his cross was written in three different languages: Hebrew, Latin, and Greek so that all who passed by could read it.

“For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue [language] shall confess [speaking in their tongue] to God. So then everyone of us shall give account of himself to God. Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way” (Rom 14:11-13).

Do you know that Jews find it offensive to say the name, Yahweh, (some will use the tetragrammaton YHWH without saying it, but never Yahweh). The majority write ADONAI, which in English is, LORD, to contrast Lord, also Adonai, or Hashem, the God, in Hebrew, instead. Why, if YHWH (ancient Hebrew has no vowels) is His name? Why Do Jews Say Hashem? - Why not refer to G-d with His name? - Chabad.org/ They do so out of what they believe to be out of respect; it is personal and has no Biblical support for it. Where will it all end?

1:8  can we be so confident about the record our God has of our thoughts and actions towards others?