Category: Jesus

Isaiah 9: The People

On By TimIn Isaiah 09, Jesus, ProphecyLeave a comment

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them the light has shined.

Isaiah 9:2 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

As we have seen in the previous post, it is the people who walk in darkness that see the great light. This is prophetically speaking, and in a literal sense speaks to the people of the nation of Israel. Yet we see that Galilee is to be the focus of the nations, this prophecy is a pattern. The people that walk in darkness apply to everyone. All of our minds are darkened by the corrupting influence of sin. That is why Paul wrote it this way:

The wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth through unrighteousness.

Romans 1:18 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Sin hides the truth. It veils truth. It brings darkness. and because of sin, humanity is in a precarious position that is indicted by impending death. All men dwell in the shadow of death. Hebrews tells us that all men have an inescapable appointment with death.

As it is appointed for men to die once, but after this comes the judgment,

Hebrews 9:27 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

After that death comes judgment. That’s the doom and darkness. Yet… That verse ends with a comma indicating the thought is not yet complete.

so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many, and He will appear a second time, not to bear sin but to save those who eagerly wait for Him.

Hebrews 9:28 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This is the great Light. It’s Jesus! Isaiah is speaking to Him and His work to save all of humanity, first from the certain swift death justice for sin demands. He brings a stay of execution so that anyone may escape judgment.

It’s not just good news for Israelis, but for all men.

The night of the birth of Jesus… The sky erupted with stars. Yes, countless living stars proclaiming the goodness and goodwill. (Biblically, angels, and stars are treated as the same.) Doubtless, you know what happened.

And in the same area there were shepherds living in the fields keeping watch over their flock by night. And then an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were very afraid. But the angel said to them, “Listen! Do not fear. For I bring you good news of great joy, which will be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign to you: You will find the Baby wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.”
Suddenly there was with the angel a company of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, and good will toward men.”

Luke 2:8–14 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

This is good news! A Child is born unto men. But not just any child, One that would bring blessing to all. He would bring peace showing God’s goodwill toward humanity.

That’s the reality of what some celebrate today. The anticipation loaded in Isaiah’s words. The great Light had come and shined on the people, all of them. Even in Isaiah’s time.

Isaiah 9: Galilee

On By TimIn Isaiah 09, Jesus, ProphecyLeave a comment

Nevertheless there shall be no more gloom for her who was in anguish. In the former time He contemptuously treated the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time He shall make it glorious, by the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, in Galilee of the nations.

Isaiah 9:1 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

The prophet Isaiah is speaking of a time yet future for his contemporary Israelis. Instead of sending the lands mentioned into captivity, God will restore glory to them. Specifically, Galilee will become the future focal point of the nations of the world. Yet in the time of Isaiah, Galilee was a rather insignificant backwater.

This verse is also the only mention of Galilee in the prophets. In the order of the books in the Old Testament, it is the last reference to the region by the name Galilee.

It was in Galilee where the first sign of Jesus was done. It is considered the moment His Ministry began. That seemingly unnoticed yet long silence demonstrates the insignificance of the region that now commands attention.

Jesus left Galilee and went up to John the Baptist to be baptized. This is where God testified audibly to Who Jesus is. The Spirit testified visually.

As His Ministry grew, those in authority couldn’t help but to take notice. John records this in an interesting way. Those in the authority wanted Jesus arrested.

Then the officers came to the chief priests and Pharisees, who said to them, “Why did you not bring Him?”
The officers answered, “No man has ever spoken like this Man.”
Then the Pharisees answered them, “Are you also deceived? Have any of the rulers or the Pharisees believed in Him? Not at all. This crowd who does not know the law is accursed.”
Nicodemus, being one of them who came to Jesus by night, said to them, “Does our law judge a man before it hears him and knows what he is doing?”
They answered him, “Are you also from Galilee? Search and see that no prophet arises out of Galilee.”

John 7:45–52 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

At first, it was the religious authorities who didn’t know. One would think that the Pharisees would know their Scriptures, and notice that the attention of the nation is being drawn to Galilee. As Israel is under the rule, that concern would spread to the government of the nations of the world at that time.

When Pilate heard of Galilee, he asked whether the Man was a Galilean.

Luke 23:6 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

As with all prophecy, it’s a pattern given to be watchful for a match. That match can appear multiple times and in multiple ways. In this example, Jesus begins His Ministry in Galilee and consequently begins to draw the attention of the world to that region.

When Jesus spoke of His impending death to His disciples, take note of the place where they would go to Him.

But after I have risen, I will go before you to Galilee.”

Matthew 26:32 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Matthew will continue to witness that Jesus is of Galilee.

Now Peter sat outside in the courtyard. And a girl came to him, saying, “You also were with Jesus of Galilee.”

Matthew 26:69 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

What I am saying is testified to plainly in the Bible. When Peter preached at Cornelius’ house, it’s clear where Jesus started. (The testimony is so good, I will give most of it.)

Then Peter began to speak, saying, “Truthfully, I perceive that God is no respecter of persons. But in every nation he who fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him. The word which He sent to the children of Israel, preaching peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all, the word, which you know, that was proclaimed throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee after the baptism which John preached: how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him. “We are witnesses of all that He did both in the land of the Jews and in Jerusalem, whom they killed by hanging on a tree. But God raised Him on the third day and presented Him publicly, not to all the people, but to witnesses previously chosen by God, to us who ate and drank with Him after He rose from the dead. He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that it is He who was ordained by God to be the Judge of the living and the dead. To Him all the prophets bear witness that whoever believes in Him will receive remission of sins through His name.”

Acts 10:34–43 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

We see the pattern worked, and it expands. Jesus’ Ministry in a temporal body began in Galilee as Peter testifies. Just as Matthew tells us His Ministry in His Resurrected body began in Galilee.

Note some important details Peter introduced. God is no respecter of persons. That there are believers accepted by God from other nations. The disciples are called to deliver the message, that whoever believes in Him will receive not just forgiveness of sin, but remission of the same.

While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell on all those who heard the word. All the believers of the circumcision who had come with Peter were astonished, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles. For they heard them speaking in other tongues and magnifying God.
Then Peter continued, “Can anyone forbid water for baptizing these, who have received the Holy Spirit as we have?” So he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then they asked him to stay a few days.

Acts 10:44–48 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

They watched as the same Holy Spirit that baptized the Israeli disciples gathered on Pentecost (the inauguration of the church) fall on Gentiles. Gentiles could be Spirit-baptized believers, too.

This is yet another pattern we match back to Isaiah 9:1. And like the last mention of Galilee in the Tanakh, Acts 13 is the last reference to it by name in the New Testament.

Now we know that Galilee will be the gateway of the nations who come in peace to worship God. This pattern started with Jesus and will finish with Jesus. It points to yet a future time (for us) when glory is restored to Israel under the rightful King who will have dominion.

Keep all of this in mind as we move forward.

Homeborn Servants and Sons

On By TimIn Israel, Jesus, John 08, The ServantLeave a comment

Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin. Now a slave does not remain in the house forever, but a son remains forever.

John 8:34–35 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Not having a full understanding of the Torah hinders us Gentiles. We want to understand the things Jesus says, and we do in a shallow sense. There are deeper things we need to be diligent in searching out.

It would not occur to me to understand what Jesus is saying in light of the Torah. In this case, Jesus is referring to some of the first things about an elect people God will call His servants and the origins of that.

Therefore she said to Abraham, “Throw out this slave woman and her son, for the son of this slave woman shall not be heir with my son, Isaac.”

Genesis 21:10 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

We know that Isaac was the chosen heir. But there is an important distinction being made between servants and heirs. There is also an apparent distinction inherent among servants. There are those bought with money and there are those homeborn.

Is Israel a servant? Is he a homeborn slave?
Why has he been plundered?

Jeremiah 2:14 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

I understand that these texts will have layers of meanings. The first question asked here lends itself to be prophetic in nature as it speaks of Jesus. It also encompasses the entire nation of Israel. While it causes us to remember the son of Isaac, Jacob.

The Homeborn Servant.

But Abram said, “Lord God, what will You give me, seeing I am childless and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?” Abram said, “Since You have not given me any children, my heir is a servant born in my house.”

Genesis 15:2–3 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

We get a tiny glimpse into the realities of life in those times. To a childless couple, the first homeborn servant is heir apparent. It was no different for Abram and Sarai.

In their haste to work God’s promises for themselves, Sarai’s servant Hagar was given to Abram. The homeborn son is named Ishmael.

As Ishmael had the distinction of being fathered by Abram with the servant Hagar, he was now heir-apparent. This by the distinction of not being bought, but homeborn. More important is the fact that he is the firstborn son.

When the promise of God came after Abraham and Sarah’s names were changed, Isaac was born. Isaac is not firstborn and not heir-apparent. Therefore, the servant-child had to be driven out. Even though Isaac was a son, he was also a servant.

Though Ishmael benefits of the promise made to Abraham, the promise was on Isaac, not Ishmael. Isaac was the son of promise. God would also establish a covenant with Isaac.

The Lord appeared to him that same night and said, “I am the God of Abraham your father. Do not fear, for I am with you. I will bless you and multiply your descendants for the sake of My servant Abraham.”

Genesis 26:24 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It is my contention that Abraham typifies the bought servant, while Isaac, the homeborn. Genetic heritage does not change, and the people descended from Abraham through the homeborn slave-son Ishmael and the son Isaac are innumerable. The son of bondage heir apparent had to be removed.

This hints as to the work of the cross. When Jesus died, the son of bondage was driven out. It made room for the son of promise. In other words, death was removed that life could be received.

Jacob is Born.

Now Isaac pleaded with the Lord for his wife, because she was barren; and the Lord granted his plea, and Rebekah his wife conceived. But the children struggled together within her, and she said, “If all is well, why am I like this?” So she went to inquire of the Lord. Then the Lord said to her,
“Two nations are in your womb,
and two peoples will be separated from your body;
one people will be stronger than the other,
and the older will serve the younger.”

Genesis 25:21–23 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Paralleling the plight of his parents, Isaac and Rebekah were also barren. The promises of God entail countless progeny. In these times people waited years for the promises of God to come. It is not that He is slack or slow, but all things happen in due time.

When Isaac and Rebekah conceived, two babies would be born. This provides another important distinction. The older shall serve the younger. The covenant promise will be to the younger.

We follow that covenant promise. Just as Isaac was chosen and the slave driven away. The younger would be chosen as the conveyance of God’s promise.

We know the account of how Jacob bought the birthright with a pot of red lentils. We also know how Rebekah and Jacob connived to obtain the blessing of Isaac. It teaches us another important lesson, a birthright can be bought (I will leave that to you to figure out how that points to Jesus.)

Then the man said, “Your name will no more be called Jacob, but Israel. For you have fought with God and with men, and have prevailed.”

Genesis 32:28 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It is this Jacob that serves as a further typification of Jesus in many ways. God’s covenant comes to Jacob, and his name is changed. The way the Bible weaves together the names of Israel, Jacob, and Jesus provide an easily accessible entree to a deeper truth.

Jacob prevailed. I think this to be prophetic in nature as it foreshadows Jesus.

But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll or to look in it. I began to weep loudly, because no one was found worthy to open and read the scroll, or to look in it. Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep. Look! The Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and to loose its seven seals.”

Revelation 5:3–5 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Jesus has prevailed. But what of this fought with God?

The Hebrew word behind the English fought is from the same root of Jacob’s grandmother’s name Sarah. It doesn’t mean physical fighting, but more like persistence and perseverance. As an aside, Sarah had to persist and persevere with Abraham! Yet something else about Jesus comes to mind…

Let us look to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and your hearts give up.

Hebrews 12:2–3 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Jacob my Servant.

Here is My servant, whom I uphold,
My chosen one, in whom My soul delights.
I have put My Spirit upon him;
he shall bring forth justice to the nations.

Isaiah 42:1 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

You are My witnesses, says the Lord,
and My servant whom I have chosen
that you may know and believe Me,
and understand that I am He.
Before Me there was no God formed,
nor shall there be after Me.

Isaiah 43:10 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Yet now listen, O Jacob, My servant,
and Israel, whom I have chosen.

Isaiah 44:1 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Remember these things, O Jacob,
and Israel, for you are My servant;
I have formed you; you are My servant;
O Israel, you shall not be forgotten by Me.

Isaiah 44:21 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

There are many witnesses to attest to the fact that Israelis are servants. The texts also have prophetic implications. They show us plainly that the names Jacob, Israel, and my servant all point to Jesus.

A Son is Forever.

In the Tanakh, we see Israel presented as a servant. Since Abraham, these would be the homeborn servants. But as clearly seen, there is a better relationship. That is to be a son (or child of God.) Jesus said a son remains forever.

A physical birthright doesn’t convey salvation. Salvation comes by promise. With all of this, what Paul writes to the Galatians is clear.

Sons by Faith.

You are all sons of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, and there is neither male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. If you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.

Galatians 3:26–29 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Homeborn servants are not necessarily sons of promise. Salvation isn’t conferred by election or birthright. It comes by faith.

No Longer a Servant, but a Son and Heir.

Now I say that as long as the heir is a child, he does not differ from a servant though he is lord of all. But he is under tutors and governors until the time appointed by the father. So when we were children, we were in bondage to the elements of the world. But when the fullness of time came, God sent forth His Son, born from a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent forth into our hearts the Spirit of His Son, crying, “Abba, Father!” Therefore you are no longer a servant, but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ

Galatians 4:1–7 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Adam sold his birthright for some food just like Esau. Jesus bought that birthright by obedience. He bought it to give it back to you as children of God received by faith.

Some Context for John 6

On By TimIn Jesus, Psalm 071, Resurrection1 Comment

Your righteousness, O God, reaches to the heights; You have done great deeds; O God, who is like You?
You who have shown me great distresses and troubles will revive me again,
and will bring me up again from the depths of the earth. You will increase my greatness, and You will encircle and comfort me.

Psalm 71:19–21 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

The psalms are written in poetic language. They are also used to convey truth to the Israelis in an easily memorized way. It is no different here.

The psalms are a carefully curated collection of prophetic poetry. When I say that, I am not saying that they predict the future, only that they convey truth. Sometimes, the truths encountered veil something yet to be revealed in a future time.

Look at the middle verse from the selection above. It says, “You who have shown me great distresses and troubles will revive me again and will bring me up again from the depths of the earth.” That is a truth hinting at a yet future hope. One in which the psalmist rests assured. The You is God. And the psalmist trusted that God would revive him. He would raise him from the depths of the earth. That’s a euphemism for resurrection.

This is teaching that God has the power to raise the dead. There is no way to escape that idea, given the language. It’s certain that some might balk at it being just poetic language, but it still contains solid truth.

Consider that this is the songbook of the Israeli people. They would be familiar with the words in it. I will give you, some because of education may have even committed parts of it to memory. This understanding is what I want to connect to something Jesus said.

There were a large group of folks that followed Jesus into the wilderness. He fed them with a young boy’s lunch. The Bible tells us there were 5,000 men in this group. It was probably a much larger crowd.

Jesus fed them. After, He quietly left to go to Capernaum. These same folks not seeing Him the next day surmised He crossed the sea and took to boats after Him. When they came to Him, they asked Him how He arrived there. They didn’t see Him get in the boat with the other disciples, and there were no other boats there.

Can you imagine?

Then Jesus spoke to them. He spoke to them in a way that brought their own motivations for seeking Him to light. Of course, they were seeking signs. Nevertheless, they had been drawn to Him and came to find Him. Then… Well, let’s look.

Jesus claims some impressive things about Himself, somehow they seem to scoff in disbelief at His claims. They want more signs as proof. Here is what Jesus said to them.

But I told you that you have seen Me, and yet do not believe. All whom the Father gives Me will come to Me, and he who comes to Me I will never cast out.

John 6:36–37 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Read all of John 6, see what is there. Keep in mind that last line above, Jesus never did cast out anyone of that present audience. They were drawn to Him and even came to Him. And the indictment for their condition is not on God. It’s on them.

After some more teaching, He makes an important statement. Important because of its ( at least) double emphasis.

This is the will of the Father who has sent Me, that of all whom He has given Me, I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day. This is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.

John 6:39–40 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Raise him up on the last day… According to the psalm, Who has the power of resurrection?

What is Jesus saying about Himself?

Leave it to the crowd to tell us exactly what they heard and thought. They started murmuring…

They said, “Is this not Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How is it then that He says, ‘I have come down from heaven’?”

John 6:42 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Why did they mention who they knew Jesus’ father to be if they didn’t understand His claim to be the very Son of God?

Jesus tells them to stop murmuring. He again affirms what He previously said, even adding to it.

No one can come to Me unless the Father who has sent Me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day. It is written in the Prophets, ‘They shall all be taught by God.’ Therefore everyone who has heard and has learned of the Father comes to Me. Not that anyone has seen the Father, except He who is from God. He has seen the Father.

John 6:44–46 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

No one can come to Jesus unless the Father draws them. Yet they did come proving they were already drawn to Him. By Jesus’ testimony, it is the Father Who drew them.

Jesus raises them up on the last day. He is yet again claiming that ability of God. It is the simple truth, He is claiming to be God (if you’re paying attention.)

Everyone who has heard and learned of the Father comes to Him. And they already did, because they had heard and learned of the Father. Jesus was telling them more about Him.

He then claims to have seen the Father. Because He is from (think Offspring of) God.

Truly, truly I say to you, whoever believes in Me has eternal life. I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate manna in the wilderness, and they died. This is the bread which comes down from heaven, that one may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. The bread which I shall give for the life of the world is My flesh.

John 6:47–51 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

He offers the simple truth. One either believes or they do not. There is nothing that prevents anyone from believing the words Jesus says.

It’s clear from the text, if you’re reading this, you’ve heard of the Father, learned of the Father, and are drawn to Jesus. But will you believe the claims of Jesus?

That question alone is the great divide. Those who believe in Him, I repeat not just believe Him but believe in Him, have eternal life. Those who do not, do not have eternal life.

Remember, God won’t cast any out. That is Jesus Who is God doesn’t cast any that come to Him out. If you don’t believe that… It’s on you.

I am a Worm

On By TimIn Jesus, Prophecy, Psalm 022Leave a comment

But I am a worm, and not a man; a reproach of men and despised by the people.

Psalm 22:6 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

I love the psalms. For many reasons, yes I love them. There are gems like this verse that give a stark contrast to a fleeting moment compared to eternity.

It is written by King David, the man after God’s heart. One that was far from perfect yet God favored. This is David’s lament, yet with prophetic significance as that speaks to the experience Jesus had on Earth.

Yes, Jesus suffered the disapproval of others, He suffered the dismissal of indifference.

Sometimes, circumstance leads some of us right into that lonely place of reproach and despair. It can happen at any moment, even in a crowded room. And if our minds are not focused correctly, we can easily slip further into a circular morass of depression.

The real idea that permeates David’s song is not the singular focus of that verse. There is the steadfast focus on God in the rest of the psalm that gives encouragement. Read it for yourself. David, and writing prophetically of Jesus, knew the reproach of men. He also knew the promises of God and in Whom hope never is disappointed.

I‘ve experienced this solitary place more than I would like to admit over my lifetime. I’ve been called more names than I want to remember… Even by adults who supposedly cared for me. I can be alone in my thoughts anywhere, anytime.

Things I know… Knowledge is a firmer foundation than emotion. What I feel is fleeting and can change. What I know can change what I feel.

The man after God’s heart knew that place. Jesus also isn’t unfamiliar with the same. He has suffered despair far worse than David, you, or I could imagine.

The God of the universe has firsthand experience with hate and spite given to Him by the very creatures He made in His likeness and whom He sustains.

That is my God!

He’s the One Who set aside what it is to be God to experience the things I experience… Even death. The Bible says that He even tasted that death for me.

He didn’t deserve to get what I ought to have.

“I am a worm,” Jesus says.

He stooped to serve me. He didn’t hide from it. Yet in that same instant that I remember that it comes to mind, He did that so I could have no fear.

For He has not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; nor has He hid His face from him; but when he cried to Him, He heard.

Psalm 22:24 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

I need not fear despair. I need not fear reproach. I need not even fear death. For He has conquered it all. And He does not hide from it.

Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah has prevailed. The One that stooped to serve me, will have all willingly kneel to Him.

All the prosperous ones of the earth will eat and worship; all who go down to the dust will bow before Him, even he who cannot keep his own soul alive. Posterity will serve Him; it will be told to generations about the Lord; they will come and declare His righteousness to a people yet to be born, that He has acted.

Psalm 22:29–31 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

He is alive. He has overcome. Behold, He is risen and coming back for His own.

The Name: Scepter

On By TimIn Esther 5, Jesus3 Comments

On the third day, Esther put on her royal apparel and positioned herself in the king’s palace courtyard so that she would be directly in line with the part of the king’s throne room where the king sat facing the entrance of the room on his royal throne in the royal hall. When the king saw Queen Esther standing quietly out in the courtyard, she gained favor in his sight, so the king held out the golden scepter in his hand to Esther. Esther approached and touched the top of the scepter.

Esther 5:1–2 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

I love the types and shadows that are present in the Scriptures. I think there is one here that, like all, is profound.

For those not familiar with Esther, she is the queen of Persia and Media. The entire account is a fascinating read. In defeating the evil Haman by exposing his plot to destroy her cousin Mordecai. The king had Haman hung on his own gallows.

There was also a law written in the books created by this Haman, that on a certain day the citizens were permitted and expected to kill all the Jewish folk in the nation. The culture in that nation didn’t allow for the voiding of laws.

How was Esther going to save her people?

The laws didn’t permit anyone to approach the king, even his bride, without an invitation. The penalty was death.

To the types and shadows…

It’s that golden scepter… The extension of it toward Esther granting her favor to enter the presence of the king. It is the extension of favor wherein she may now let the king know her petition without fear in his very presence.

The underlying word in Hebrew makes connections that are astounding. Our English translations also make the connection.

But first I want to point out that scholars think this scepter was a small version of a shepherd’s crook. You are probably familiar with an Egyptian version. It is represented in ancient carvings. Even Disney has an accurate depiction at Epcot in Spaceship Earth.

This scepter as a representative shepherd’s crook is a good reminder to us all, that the leaders of a nation are appointed by God to be good stewards of the people, just as a shepherd cares for sheep. In that way, they are to be like Jesus. This brings this digression back to the point. In Numbers, there was a prophecy of Jesus given.

“I will see him, but not now; I will behold him, but not near; a star will come out of Jacob, and a scepter will rise out of Israel, and will crush the borderlands of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth. Edom will be a possession, and Seir, a possession of its enemies, while Israel does valiantly. One out of Jacob shall have dominion, and destroy the survivors of the city.”

Numbers 24:17–19 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Here, Jesus is referred to as “a scepter.” The underlying Hebrew words are related. This one Numbers is the Hebrew shêbeṭ. Whereas in Esther, it is the derivative sharbı̂yṭ. It is only used four times in the Old Testament and all of them are in Esther. Our reference word for scepter is specific and exclusive, yet is derived from the same word in the Numbers prophecy.

Furthermore, the phrase “the golden scepter” is used three times in Esther. The Hebrew phrase is ’eṯ sharbı̂yṭ hǎ zāhāḇ. Each time it is used it is a demonstration of grace and acceptance extended by the king.

That is Jesus.

He is the Sceptre, the extension of grace and acceptance from God. Jesus told us…

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.

John 3:16 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

In Hebrews, it is explained this way.

Since then we have a great High Priest who has passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who was in every sense tempted like we are, yet without sin. Let us then come with confidence to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Hebrews 4:14–16 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Saved or unsaved… pagan or Christian… Jew or Gentile… There is only one Way to enter the presence of the King. And that’s via the Sceptre extended to us in favor… Jesus Christ.

Not convinced? There’s more.

That little two-letter word et may easily be passed over. In my opinion, it is one of those things in Hebrew that point directly to Jesus.

The Hebrew letters that make up the word et are the aleph and the tav. The aleph is the first letter of the Hebrew alphabet, and the tav is the last.

Look at the screenshot included. You can see the Hebrew aleph and tav depicted in the callout box. (In the “Lemma” line next to the number 1.)

These two letters appear (sometimes untranslated) occasionally in the Hebrew Bible. An important one for me to discover was some years back. It is in the first line of the Bible. Genesis 1, in the beginning, God. Right next to the word elohim is these two Hebrew letters. In the beginning God aleph-tav (think Alpha Omega.)

Conclusion.

People say that Esther doesn’t mention God. It certainly doesn’t mention Jesus. But, a little digging into the underlying text reveals that He is indeed there. Don’t be afraid to use the vast tools available to you. There are many to allow such digging. If I can find it, you can.

I think I understand why this has been knocking around in my head for some weeks now. God had something important to show. I am also very cognizant of Michael Heiser and his adage. “If it’s weird. It’s important.” I always keep that in mind. Along with those little ideas that arise as God causes them to be stuck in your mind.

Jesus Sets the Timing

On By TimIn 2 Thessalonians 02, Jesus, Last DaysLeave a comment

Do not let anyone deceive you in any way. For that Day will not come unless a falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of destruction,

2 Thessalonians 2:3 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

While I was with them in the world, I kept them in Your name. I have kept those whom You have given Me. And none of them is lost except the son of perdition, that the Scripture might be fulfilled.

John 17:12 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It is unmistakable that the coming prince shares the same epithet that Judas shared. It is also unmistakable that this imposter is not in control of timing.

There is some controversy on exactly what falling away entails. It could be the abandonment of orthodox Christianity by some. If so, it’s easy to see the beginnings of that even now. There are some who see it as a removal of people, specifically believers. Regardless, the revealing of the son of perdition cannot occur until after the event.

If Satan is not in control of the timing of things, that means he has had to have a man ready at any given time. He knows his time is short but has a specific beginning. He has no idea when the specific time starts.

God knows. In fact, God has shared intelligence with us in His Word. We are given vivid descriptions of exactly what is going to happen. But it won’t start until God gives the go-ahead.

For lots of Christians, we think that is what is called the rapture. That word comes with some baggage, too. But I think of it as a catching away of the believers.

As God would have it come to mind… Jesus also controlled the timing of the previous son of perdition. Sitting down to share a meal with his disciples, this is what happened.

Jesus answered, “It is he to whom I shall give a piece of bread when I have dipped it.” When He had dipped the bread, He gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon. After receiving the piece of bread, Satan entered him.
Then Jesus said to him, “What you are going to do, do quickly.” But no one at the table knew why He said this to him.

John 13:26–28 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It was Jesus that controlled the timing of His crucifixion.

Satan couldn’t move against Jesus at his own discretion and timing. He also can’t move in his short window of time in the end at his own discretion. He must first wait for God.

The very context of 2 Thessalonians tells us the sign…

Do you not remember that when I was still with you, I told you these things? Now you know what restrains him that he might be revealed in his time. For the mystery of lawlessness is already working. Only He who is now restraining him will do so until He is taken out of the way. Then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth, and destroy with the brightness of His presence, even him, whose coming is in accordance with the working of Satan with all power and signs and false wonders, and with all deception of unrighteousness among those who perish, because they did not receive the love for the truth that they might be saved.

2 Thessalonians 2:5–10 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

He can’t move until that happens. He Who restrains. This time, it’s not Jesus… But the Holy Spirit Who works in the hearts of all believers now.

Time seems short.

The Name: See Jesus LORD

On By TimIn Exodus 14, JesusLeave a comment

But Moses said to the people, “Fear not! Stand firm! And see the salvation of the Lord, which He will show you today. For the Egyptians whom you have seen today, you shall never see again. The Lord shall fight for you, while you hold your peace.”

Exodus 14:13–14 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

I love the Old Testament shadows that are given for our edification. At this particular point in history, the Israelis are being pursued by Pharaoh’s army and are in a seeming dead-end. They are hemmed in by mountains and the Red Sea, and the old ways are dogging them. There is no perceivable way of escape. (Israel serves as a type of the world and its sin.)

There are some important points that we must see clearly. First, Moses commands the Israelis to not be afraid. Fear is a tool of the enemy. It leads us to doubt God. Moses is telling those to stand firm. That is to be ready. God makes ways where there are none.

He makes a statement at the end to show the entirety of what he is speaking about. “The LORD shall fight for you.” When the word LORD is capitalized in English it is to convey what some say is the unspeakable name of God… YHWH. It’s odd that Moses used it twice in just the passage cited above.

What is expected of the Israelis to keep their salvation from the Egyptians?

  • Fear not.
  • Stand firm.
  • Hold your peace.

What is the promise to the Israelis?

They will never see the Egyptians again.

The application is easy. As we are saved from the world and sin, our admonition is to not be afraid and to stand firm holding our peace. It isn’t to work or find a way out. Trust God. He promises they will never see that again.

Amidst all of that Moses explains to the Israelis “see the salvation of the LORD.” In English, it is easy to brush over the phrase. But knowing just a bit about Hebrew leads us to dig just beneath the text. We know the word LORD is the name of God, YHWH. The other word, salvation is a translation of the Hebrew word Yeshua.

In the screenshot of an interlinear Bible, reading from right to left the phrase is literally Yeshua Yahweh (or Yeshua Jehovah.) Yeshuah is the Hebrew word that is the name of Jesus. What Moses is telling the Israelis hundreds of years before Jesus came is “Fear not. Stand firm! And see Jesus LORD.

The Name: No One Knows

On By TimIn Jesus, Revelation 19Leave a comment

I saw heaven opened. And there was a white horse. He who sat on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and wages war. His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on His head are many crowns. He has a name written, that no one knows but He Himself. He is clothed with a robe dipped in blood. His name is called The Word of God.

Revelation 19:11–13 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

The Name no one knows. Continuing from the previous installment, we learned the Name of Jesus is too wonderful. As it would be, I literally stumbled upon this text this morning. There are no coincidences.

Look at how John describes what He sees. I find it particularly interesting that it is part of what he is seeing. The idea of the name being solely known by Jesus wasn’t spoken to John. But there it is… His Name is too wonderful that only He knows it.

Then as it were, John clearly apprehends the opening of his Gospel and uses it here.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were created through Him, and without Him nothing was created that was created. In Him was life, and the life was the light of mankind. The light shines in darkness, but the darkness has not overcome it.

John 1:2–5 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

All of these things (and more) are part of the too wonderful Name. He is above all things. As God has exalted Him and His Name above all.

Even Jesus Himself hallows this name. In one of His earliest teachings, He taught how to pray. Of utmost importance is recognizing the uniqueness and position of the Name.

Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven, hallowed be Your name.

Matthew 6:9 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

His Name is to be consecrated and venerated. It is not to be something not said at all, as some practice. No, it is to be proclaimed plainly. Proclaiming His Name is part of worship.

Oh, give thanks unto the Lord; call upon His name; make known His deeds among the peoples. Sing unto Him, sing praises unto Him; proclaim all His wondrous works. Glory in His holy name; let the heart rejoice for those who seek the Lord. Seek the Lord and His strength; seek His presence continuously.

Psalm 105:1–4 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It is an integral part of salvation.

And in that day you shall say:
O Lord, I will praise You; though You were angry with me, Your anger has turned away,
and You comforted me. Certainly God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and my song; He also has become my salvation. Therefore with joy you shall draw water out of the wells of salvation.
In that day you shall say: Praise the Lord, call upon His name, declare His deeds among the peoples, make them remember that His name is exalted. Sing to the Lord, for He has done excellent things; let this be known in all the earth. Cry out and shout for joy, O inhabitant of Zion. For great is the Holy One of Israel in your midst.

Isaiah 12:1–6 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

With joy we honor His name. Those that call on It exalt Him and are saved. It is also how we share the truth to others… Call upon His Name! make known His deeds among the people.

Consecrating the Name of God is the foremost ideas God communicated to His people in the covenant He made with them. His name will not be sullied.

You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold guiltless anyone who takes His name in vain.

Exodus 20:7 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

You shall not defile My holy name, but I will be sanctified among the children of Israel: I am the Lord who sanctifies you, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, to be your God: I am the Lord.

Leviticus 22:32–33 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

The Name is even part of the national identity of Israel, which comes from roots that mean wrestle and God. Even you by the appellation applied to you as a Christian are exalting the Name.

Even as much as we exalt the Name of God in worship. It is just a small glimpse into the presence of God. The people that gathered with Nehemiah to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem offered a song of of praise.

It is in that song that the Name of God is hallowed. As it tells of the many ways that Israel attempted to defile the Name of God with their actions. Yet it is in the mercies of God amidst those sins that God establishes His Name:

Stand up and bless the Lord your God forever and ever! Let them bless Your glorious name, which is exalted above all blessing and praise. You alone are the Lord. You have made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them; and You preserve them all. And the host of heaven worships You.

Nehemiah 9:5b–6 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Read the rest of Nehemiah 9 for homework.

The Name: It is too Wonderful

On By TimIn Jesus, Judges 13Leave a comment

Manoah said to the angel of the Lord, “What is your name, so that we can honor you when your words come true?”
The angel of the Lord said to him, “Why do you ask my name? It is too wonderful.”

Judges 13:17–18 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

Manoah is the father of the biblical strongman Samson. His wife was visited by the angel of the Lord. This we know as a Theophany or a pre-incarnate visit from Jesus. Manoah boldly asked for the angel’s name. It is answered.

I find it interesting that this is written long before the kings and prophets, and specifically Isaiah. It draws a particular target to a specific verse.

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulder. And his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

The two words translated to wonderful are related and come from the same Hebrew root. The first usage in Judges is striking as the particular form of Hebrew hints at something secretively wonderful. Even the answer given to Manoah is ripe with intrigue.

The second usage is subtly different. It offers the idea of miraculous wonder. Again, given the way Isaiah writes, that idea is clearly conveyed in the text a human child is born, a divine Son is given.

I also hear that particular verse in Isaiah with the comma between wonderful and counselor. With the list provided, His name is too wonderful.

Therefore God highly exalted Him and gave Him the name which is above every name,

Philippians 2:9 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

It is the Name above every other Name. It is also the only Name by which anyone can be saved… That is rescued from perdition.

There is no salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.

Acts 4:12 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

There is no other. When the Angle of the Lord said His name was too wonderful, it wasn’t braggadocios boast. It was a simple truth. Jesus is exalted above all.

He is the example for us and how to conduct ourselves.

Let this mind be in you all, which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped. But He emptied Himself, taking upon Himself the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men. And being found in the form of a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death, even death on a cross. Therefore God highly exalted Him and gave Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Philippians 2:5–11 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

He didn’t just teach us what servant humility looks like. He took on the dirt body we humans have. He submitted Himself to death, the penalty for our sins. (He didn’t have any.)

That Name is too wonderful. There are no words that can adequately explain all that it encompasses.

Yet… Every tongue will confess His Name and honor His position. For those under the earth, there is no benefit. But you are reading this now, there is a great benefit available for you. By calling on His name, you can receive forgiveness of sins and eternal life.

Why wait?