Take Two: Hebrews 13, Proverbs 24

This concluding chapter of Hebrews moves quickly through a couple of matters and then ends with a benediction.

Heb 13:1 is an encouragement to continue in the love/devotion to the Christian community (brethren). In many ways, the community was a closer connection than even one's own natural family. This is a statement that reminds the reader to not grow weary, but to support/ encourage/love one another.

Heb 13:2 Be hospitable to strangers. This was a cultural norm for the readers but also was an exhortation to not shrink back from it. A temptation to withdraw hospitality might be normal for those who were experiencing difficulty in their circumstances (financial/persecution) etc.

Heb 13:3 Remember those in prison. This is not a general exhortation to remember prisoners who were incarcerated (which one may do). It is a reminder to not forget about those who were imprisoned for their faith and had been removed from the Christian community.

Heb 13:4 Honor the institution of marriage and do not dishonor ones spouse or defile the marriage bed. Honoring ones mate and protecting oneself from sexual immorality is a necessity for a healthy and happy marriage.

Heb 13:5-6, Trust in God, not in possessions. Do not covet and hold onto your possessions and neglect the needs around you within the community and the needs of the "Mission."

Heb 13:7 Honor those who have taught you the Word and led you. Imitate their lives so that you will experience the outcome as they have. (By the way...some of those leaders are in prison for their faith. Imitate that.) Heb 13:17 also speaks of submitting to the authority of these leaders since the leaders are watching over and protecting the people...and will give an account to God for how they have led.

Heb 13:8-9. Because Christ is unchangable...do not be carried away by the "new" idea some guy wrote about. Be strengthened by the Orthodox beliefs. Those of Salvation by grace...not in some action that brings a warm and fuzzy feeling.

Heb 13:10-16. Do not be caught up in offering sacrifices to please God. Those who worship at "that" altar have no part in the genuine worship of God. Rather, bring the sacrifice of giving thanks continually and praise to God. If you become a "reproach" to those around you...remember that Jesus was a reproach.

Heb 13:18-19. The writer, who was well known to the audience even though he is not identified here in this letter...asks the church to pray for him...since he wanted to do the "right thing" in the midst of difficulty.

Heb 13:20-25 is a closing benediction. Praise be to God!

Proverbs 24:27 is the takeaway today. Wisdom dictates that there is a "best" order in which to do things. It would be strange to meet a man who was a farmer who had a nice home and no fields. In fact, if one were insightful...much of the financial crisis in our country today is caused by violating this principle. The magnitude of "credit" and the lack of "equity" is an outcome of building ones house before one builds the source which will provide for the house. Another way of speaking of this is "delayed gratification." While it is not original to him, Don teaches in his financial principles class at our church that we should "live today like others won't, so we can live tomorrow like others can't." This is another way of articulating this principle. Who knows what the future holds? Only God. We should do what is necessary now so we can used of God greatly in the days ahead.

Tomorrow we move back tot he OT book of Amos! See you there!

Grace,

Take Two: Hebrews 12, Proverbs 23

Hebrews 12 begins with the conclusion/point of the list of saints that was given in chapter 11. Since we have so many witnesses/examples to look to, let us also do these things: Lay aside sin and the things that hold us back or trip us up; run the race before us with endurance; fix our eyes on Jesus...our example...considering how He lived so that we won't become discouraged and quit (Heb 12:1-3).

Heb 12:4-11 deals with the subject/question of discipline. The writer answers the unasked question about why God allows (causes) the difficulties the people are enduring. The answer is that God disciplines those whome He loves. God corrects His own children.

Heb 12:12-17 is a word of encouragement to address those things that need to be. Bind up what is weak, clear one's path of obstacles, pursue a peaceful existence, pursue sanctification (the process of godliness), and guard oneself against ungodly attitudes toward others.

Heb 12:18-24 speaks of the contrast between the God who was feared and the God who gave His own life to satisfy (make propitiation for) the wrath of God against sin.

All of these statements of address are necessary for consideration since...there is a day coming when God will judge (Heb 12:25-29) all things and that which is not prepared will be destroyed. In light of that...knowing that judgment will come...those who know and love God should serve Him joyfully...in full realization that they can never be shaken...because of the sufficiency of Christ.

Proverbs 23:9 is the takeaway today. This is a difficult balance for me to consider. On one hand, I am called to proclaim truth to those where God has opened the door to hear it. On the other hand...I am told of the foolishness of proclamation to the foolish one. How are the two reconciled?
A "fool" or "foolish one" is a person who is unteachable. It does not mean one who does foolish things per se, since we all do those. It is one who refuses to stop doing foolish things. I think of the people I have gone back to time and again to try to "convince them" to see God and become Christ-followers. Often times, my words were wasted and the conversation digressed to a debate over extraneous information. It is those conversations...with those who show no teachability that God refers to here in Proverbs. God must do a great work of preparation in their hearts before they will be able to receive His wisdom...from you, me, or from anyone else.

Take Two: Hebrews 11, Proverbs 22

Hebrews 11 is pretty familiar territory for some...so it is easy to "gloss over" if we are not careful. (I catch myself doing that with familiar passages. I assume I know and have understood them...so I speed read them.) There really is no part of Scripture though that is so familar that we can afford to just "gloss over." Even things we can recite from memory...sometimes produce new thoughts when we read the words slowly and methodically.

The chapter continues the thought that has been the them all along. Because we have the "Perfect" (Jesus), then we can never go back to the "imperfect" (The Law...or any other inferior system for relating to God.)

So how do we know if we have "Jesus"? After all, shouldn't it get easier? And, if we do have Him...what do we do when things are tough?

The call has been and continues to be that we exercise faith in God. What is "faith." It is the confident belief in that which is not yet measurable (Heb 11:1). We have faith in God, not yet having SEEN Him. We have faith in heaven, not yet having BEEN there. If we "confidently believe" in something...we act accordingly. This is the point that jumps off of the page in Hebrews 11. Abel offered a better sacrifice by faith (Heb 11:4). Enoch lived his life pleasing God (Heb 12:5). Abraham obeyed God (Heb 11:8-12). All of these died without ever seeing God face to face...yet they lived as though they would (Heb 12:13). This living according to their faith made it evident that they were trusting in a world still unseen...and God was not ashamed to call them His children (Heb 11:14-16).

With each of those saints that followed, the same is true. They believed...and acted by faith. Sometimes...their faith was rewarded in the short-term with observable victory (Heb 11:32-35); at other times, it resulted only in long-term victory (Heb 11:35-38). In both cases, they acted by faith and in both cases they received a victory. Yet...as the writer is about to point out...none of them ever even saw the Messiah...yet they demonstrated perfect/perfected faith.

By a man's actions...we can know what He believes in his heart. Some people are "into Jesus" for the short-term benefit. As long as they have health and prosperity...they are good with Christianity. Others are "into Jesus" but only on their terms. Those who are truly Christ-followers...choose Him over all things...whether they experience blessing or hardship...knowing that they have a hope waiting-- that exceeds every expectation.

Proverbs 22:15 is the takeaway today. This is a verse I have read many times and have even quoted to folks along the way. As I read it this morning...I was impressed that God disciplines us for the same reason and with the same goal. When we receive the discipline of God...it is because...at our core...we are unwise/foolish (rebellious against God). We will not relinquish this attitude/disposition easily. In fact, it is bound up within us. We will not choose to forsake it...until it is so costly/painful to keep it...that we choose to let it go. Therefore, God disciplines us.

Discipline is good. It reminds us of the love of God which is displayed in His desire to see us live free from that which binds us up.

Grace,

Take Two: Hebrews 10, Proverbs 21

Hebrews 10 draws some conclusions for us and provides a warning based on those conclusions. The writer has built a great argument for why one can never go back to an insufficient system after he has experienced the perfect redemption in Christ.

Keeping the Law was never intended to be a sufficient satisfaction of God's judgment against sin. One of the obvious reasons why...is that no one can keep the Law. If so, there would never be a sense of consciousness/guilt for our sins. That is the point of Heb 10:1-10. Christ nullified the "copy/shadow" system (the Law) as the way to relate to God when He fulfilled it. He took away the "Law System" in order to establish the New Covenant (Heb 10:10).

Christ demonstrated the sufficiency/superiority of His sacrifice when He sat down at the right hand of God. Every other priest stands continually in the temple (no chairs) because his work is never done (Heb 10:11-18). Since Christ's sacrifice is eternally sufficient, there are no more sacrifices to make, so He sat down ( a picture of the finished work).

Here is the conclusion: Since we have a confident approach to God through Christ's sacrifice (Heb 10:19-20), and a Great High Priest (Heb 10:21), Let's act on them and draw near with "CONVINCED HEARTS" and STAND FIRM in our conviction and confession...and encourage one another to STAY THE COURSE (Heb 10:22-25). To do otherwise...to turn back...is to declare by our actions that Christ's sacrifice is INSUFFICIENT and lacks POWER...a sin we can be sure God will punish (Heb 10:26-31).

The writer is not concerned that the readers are going to give up their salvation and be judged by God. This is not the issue. He is trying to motivate them (stimulate them to good works) to stand firm. This is very clear in how the writer closes out the chapter. In Heb 10:32-39, the writer reminds his audience that they had already experienced salvation, that it had cost them, and that they did it anyway. He knew this...because they were compasionate toward those in society in need (a sure sign of Christ's heart). So, they should not turn back or shrink back from their faith which saves.

So, who knew that "salvation" (the ongoing aspects of salvation/ sanctification) was so much work? It would seem foolish to think that salvation is about saying a prayer and being baptized. These are only the first steps of a lifelong journey...which consists of challenges, trials, distresses...as well as joy, peace, and hope. EARNING Favor with God (Justification) requires no effort...only a decision to trust Him; however, EXPERIENCING God requires great effort in the battle between the flesh and the spirit. You cannot walk away from God and experience the benefits of relationship. The life of a Christian is such that we must continue day by day to choose Him and pursue Him with great effort.

Proverbs 21: 3 is the takeaway today. It is not that God does not desire sacrifice. He does. He prescribed this as a means of worship. However, sacrifice (religious worship) alone is insufficient. Real sacrifice (religious worship) ALWAYS involves living out ones religion in everyday life.

Take Two: Hebrews 9, Proverbs 20

The writer continues the discussion on why the New Covenant is superior to the Old Covenant. He begins by pointing out that there were two parts to the tabernacle/temple structure (Heb 9:1-5). There was the Holy place where the priests ministered...and there was the Holy of holies where only the High Priest ministered. This is analogous to the fact that the priests ministered under the Old Covenant while only Jesus ministered under the New Covenant.

This is necessary, as the writer's argument goes, since the Old Covenant could not cleanse a person's conscience (Heb 9:9). The ongoing requirement to offer again sacrifices at the temple reminded the worshipper that their "work" was never done under the Old Covenant.

Heb 9:11-14 then shifts and explains that Christ, however, finished the work and made the "perfect/cleansed" conscience possible. Because of this, there would never be a reason to return from the "perfect" to the imperfection of the Old Covenant (Heb 9:15-22). This new and perfect covenant is made possible as with all covenants...through the shedding of blood. Under both the Old and New Covenants, blood must be shed as an offering for forgiveness of sin (Heb 9:22), however there is a difference. Under the Old Covenant, there was the need for continual/ ongoiing sacrifices to be made in the temple/tabernacle. It is not that the blood sacrifices ACTUALLY saved. To the contrary...the act of sacrificing by faith was the response to God that saved. The sacrifices, like the temple/tabernacle were types/copies the "perfect" which was to come.

(CHEW ON THAT FOR A MINUTE)

The obedient response to God, by faith, in dealing with sin as God required was the act that unlocked Salvation. That is a major theological point and is exactly what the writer wants the reader to grasp. Obedience to the Old Covenant was fine under the Old Covenant...but once the New Covenant comes, it is just disobedience. As one person said, "Delayed Obedience is simply Disobedience." Trust in disobedient worship is no different as far as its "efficacy" (ability to accomplish the work) than trusting in some more flagrantly sinful philosophy. Once one knows what to do...substituting anything for obedience is an "in your face" afront to God!

Let's apply that:

• God wants me to serve Him as a missionary but I choose to teach Sunday School instead. It is SIN.
• God wants me to teach my children to love Him, but I feel inept and send them to Christian School or Bible College instead...it is SIN.
• God wants me to tithe my income, but I give it to save starving whales off the coast of Alaska (or buy a nicer car, take a family vacation, or put extra gas in the fuel tank)...it is SIN.
• Anything...no matter how good it is, that is not what God has prescribed for us to do...is sin.

There is only one righteous response to God...it is the response that mirrors Jesus' conduct. We are to give our lives to God and live as He would have us to...regardless of our view/perception/ or beliefs on the subject. Only then can our conscience be perfected and God be truly glorified and enjoyed.

Proverbs 20:4 is the takeaway today. This hit me for two reasons. We live in a culture today when a person's "desires" are accentuated to the point that we are somewhat hedonistic (focused on personal pleasure) above all else. We say to a person who wants to work at McDonalds and can't feed their family..."it is ok. Do what you think is best/want to do." This is not so. There is a level of responsibility that is required of every person. To shirk that responsibility...is to find oneself in "need" and simply suffer by going without (often causing the suffering of others under one's care as well). There is no obligation on the part of those who "have"...to prop up those who "have not"...by choice or dereliction of duty.

Take Two: Hebrews 8, Proverbs 19

Hebrews 8 picks up on the discussion and assumes the point made in Chapter 7. Jesus Christ is different and even "superior" to the priests of the Jewish Law. Therefore, His "system" (to use a term very loosely to relate to the New Covenant) is different and superior to the old "system/ covenant. Once a person has the better covenant, it is nonsensical for them to consider returning to the inferior.

Heb 8:1-6 makes this point. Once we determine that Christ is superior, that He is our High Priest, that He is in heaven in the position of authority (right hand of the throne), then all lesser "priests" are revealed to be insufficient. They serve a "copy" and not the better. Growing up, my parents always provided...but sometimes it was more creatively done than at other times. I joke sometimes that I did not know that meatloaf was intended to contain meat until I got married and someone else made it. Growing up...two pounds of hamburger made a five pound meatloaf. If you add enough bread, milk, and eggs...you can do anything. Growing up, meatloaf was one of my favorite dishes. After I got married and discovered that many people use 1 pound of meat to make a one pound meatloaf, I was perplexed. I thought Jodi was doing it wrong. Then I tasted it. It tasted like meat! Now...it is pretty difficult to enjoy the old meat/bread loaf with the same zeal as before. I have had the "real," so the copy is less satisfying. SAME CONCEPT the writer of Hebrews is speaking of.

Heb 8:7 makes the next point. Since there is a New Covenant, it is clear that the Old Covenant was imperfect. If the first covenant was sufficient and perfect, then there would be no need for a second, (unless God was creating a variety of ways for us to relate to Him.) This case is made clear from the OT citations in Heb 8:8-12. Heb 8:13 then concludes that the very presence of the "New Covenant" indicates the obsolescence of the "Old Covenant." As before, the point is not theological per se; rather, the point is pastoral. The writer is encouraging the readers to dismiss the idea of returning to the Old Covenant since they now have the New.

Proverbs 19:2 is the takeaway. When we are called on to "hurry" to decide a matter, it usually means that we are expected to make a decision without all of the available "knowledge." This usually leads to a decision that is less wise than one would make if taking the appropriate amount of time. I am mindful of the current news broadcasts where people are "up in arms" over the conduct of leaders of companies that the government bailed out. Some took big bonuses, in accordance with the agreement and terms of the bailout. As such, there is no recourse. When the Bill was up for deliberation, those who wanted to examine it further were chastised and told that their lack of action would lead to demise. Now...it seems more "knowledge" and a more thoughful approach would have led to a better decision. I guess the urgent pleas of some leaders in the face of "imminent danger of economic collapse" caused a panicked response and a poorly executed approach. Once again, God demonstrates His Wisdom before all the World!

Take Two: Hebrews 7, Proverbs 18

The writer resumes his argument on the uniqueness and superiority of Christ...drawing an analogy to Melchizedek. We see this shift begin in Heb 6:20 where the writer tells us that Jesus is a High Priest according to (just as) the order of Melchizedek. Follow his argument.

• Jewish Law teaches that the Priests are from the Levite Tribe.
• They become Levites by physical birth.
• All Levites point backward to the Patriarch Abraham, since they are his descendents.

So, if all priests come from Abraham, then how is it that Abraham acknowledged and honored the priest Melchizedek?

(Understand that the author is not denouncing the priesthood of the Levites. He is not even arguing that Melchizedek is someone great. In his mind, Melchizedek is a great example, ALREADY ACCEPTED by his readers, of a priest who was not a Levite...so, he is a perfect "TYPE" to be compared with Christ.)

Heb 7:1-2 describes Melchizedek as "priest of the Most High God," and the king of Salem (peace). His name means "king of Righteousness" (from the Hebrew- Melek {King}, Chizdek {Righteousness}). So, you have a man who is the king of righteousness and peace, who is a priest of the Most High God who is not a Levite. In fact, nothing is known of Melchizedek's birth, death, or ancestry (Heb 6:3).

All of the readers would have already acepted that Melchizedek was a priest and worthy of honor since "Father Abraham" saw fit to give him a "tithe" of all of the spoils (Heb 7:2).

Now follow the argument: Since Abraham honored Melchizedek, it was implied that Melchizedek was (at least in this role) superior to Abraham. Since all of the Levite priests (including the High Priest) are descendents of Abraham...then by inference, Melchizedek was superior to them as well...and this without being a Jew (Heb 7:4-7).

Heb 7:11-13 then "draws the net." If the Levitical priesthood was the "way" to go and Jewish Law adherence was the key, why was there another priest named Melchizedek? (The writer's goal was to get his audience "nodding" along with him...so he could draw the parallel with Jesus.)

Heb 7:14-28 shows that Jesus was not a Levite, but like Melchizedek, He is superior to the levitical priesthood. This is evident since:

• God declared him a priest forever (Heb 7:17)
• Jesus is a Priest, not on the basis of physical descent, but based on the power of His life (Heb 7:16)
• God swore that Jesus' Priesthood would not change or expire (Heb 7:21)
• There were many Levites (since they died and changed) but there was only one Jesus since He was a priest forever (Heb 7:23-24)
• Other priests offered sacrifices daily for their sins and the sins of the people, but Jesus offered Himself ONCE for ALL (Heb 7:26-27).

Bear in mind, the writer wants the reader to grasp the fact that once they have the "perfect," they cannot return to the "imperfect." It will not be sufficient. His goal is not to win a theological argument, but to encourage them to stand firm in the faith they confessed toward Christ.

Sometimes, we all need encouragement. We want to walk away or become apathetic toward things of God. When we look at who Christ is, it should stir us to new or renewed passion for Him! He is worthy of our passionate pursuit.

Proverbs 18:11 is the takeaway. Every person has a point of security. In his mind (imagination), he believes that his security is sufficient to protect him. In this proverb, the security is the "rich man's wealth." It is security to him because he possesses it. He becomes prideful and maybe even boastful in his own security. However, his security is not sufficient if it is found outside of God. God alone secures. All else will be brought down, because God desires that we trust in Him alone as our strong tower (Prov 18:10).

Grace,

Take Two: Hebrews 6, Proverbs 17

Hebrews 6 is one of those chapters that causes theologians to get fired up. The subject is "falling away" or "apostasy," and the writer says to those who do it...there is no hope of ever coming back (Heb 6:6). Depending on your theological bent...you may read into the chapter different than someone else.

If you come from a position that hold to a very hight view of God's Sovereignty (i.e. Calvinism, Reformed tradition, etc.) you likely say that the writer means that those who "seem" to fall away...were never really part of God's family. If you hold a position which holds a higher view of "man's freewill" (i.e. Arminianism, Methodist, freewill ____, sone Pentecostal) you likely say that the writer means that those who were Christians can "fall away" from their Salvation...and for those who do (and don't turn back before they get all the way away)...you can never be restored.

There are a number of other stripes along the way...variations of these two extremes. I personally hold to a balanced view of these two which affirms both: God is Sovereign (in absolute control of everything) and man is responsible (must choose to act in light of God's Sovereignty). My view doesn't fit "neatly" into either of these two systems...but it is the correct position so everyone else needs to change (Grin). Seriously though...the position I hold sees a divine tension between God's control and man's responsibility. It may not fit into someone's idea of "logic," but as my Systematic Theology Professor said in Seminary..."my theology is somewhat like the furniture in my house. It may not all match, but it suits me just fine."

Back to the issue. Depending on your theological presuppositions, you may have interpreted this concept in the chapter differently. There are 5 or 6 dominant explanations as to what is meant by the passage. My favorite comes from Dr. Thomas Schreiner, professor at Southern Seminary. He sees the passage as a divine warning. The writer warns the audience...that being saved...and walking away...makes it impossible for them to come back. Why? Because to do so would be to (in essence) declare that Jesus was insufficient...because to come back is like needing to re-crucify Him (Heb 6:4-6). The writer is expecting that the reader will say: "Absolutely not! I cannot crucify my Lord again!" This would be the desired outcome of the warning.

It does not appear that the idea in the mind of the writer is ever that these folks were in danger of losing their salvation. he is preaching to them to stand firm and never turn back. Heb 6:9 says that the writer is CONVINCED of better things for them (than falling away). He is also convinced that the nature of Salvation is not one of "losing it."

God made a promise to Abraham and kept it. Abraham believed God and persevered. Abraham received from God what was promised (Heb 6:14-15). The writer points to this example as an encouragement and challenge to the reader...that God made them a promise (salvation) and if they will persevere, they too will receive it.

Unfortunately...passages like this have become, through the years, "hobby horses" for guys to ride while making their theological cases. What is at issue is not some obscure point. The writer wants the readers to stand firm. His point is not academic...it is pastoral.

One final thing: the writer is encouraging the audience to consider this (and other) difficult concepts as a means of strengthening their faith and understanding of God (Heb 6:1-3). Sometimes...we meet Christians who are discouraged or who live outside of the abundant life God provides (John 10:10). In many ways, the reason for this is because they have never moved on to consider the weightier matters of God's character. They have never left the elementary principles of God...so they have only an elementary level of trust and confidence. But (as the writer says here), I am convinced of better things concerning you...

Proverbs 17:14 is the takeaway today. Disunity...strife...struggle...contention...Once the train starts down the track, it is dificult to stop. How does one avoid strife? Abandon it early. Otherwise, it is like letting out water (yes this is humanly speaking for the process of ridding the body of fluids)...once it starts, it is difficult to stop. Once a quarrel begins...it is nearly impossible to just abandon it. So...abandon the quarrel before it starts.

Grace,

Take Two: Hebrews 5, Proverbs 16

The uniqueness of Christ as our High Priest is the subject of this chapter. The High Priest is the one who entered into the presence of God on behalf of the people to offer sacrifices for sin. Heb 5:2 tells us that the High Priest can easily relate to and deal gently with the people who sin, since he himself is a sinner.

Heb 5:3 reminds us though, that since the High Priest is a man, before he could offer sacrifices for others, he had to first offer a sacrifice for his own sin.

Heb 5:4 gives the third characteristic that the writer wishes to point out. No High Priest volunteered for the job, but was "called" (selected) by God.

Jesus is the great High Priest. He became as we are in every way (a man) and felt the draw of the flesh toward rebellion against God. However, He did not yield to the draw/temptation to sin. This explains for us what Jesus "learned" in His humanity and how He was "perfected" (Heb 5:8-10). Since Jesus never sinned, He did not need to offer a sacrifice on His own behalf before God. In this way He is unique. He gave Himself as the one sacrifice for all mankind. Also, like the High Priest in the reader's minds, Jesus was called/selected by God for this mission/assignment.

In Heb 5:11-13, the writer tells his audience that they have become "dull of hearing," when it comes to these issues. He charges them that they have become satisfied with the elementary principles of Christianity (Jesus loves me, I am a sinner, Jesus died on the cross for me, etc), and have not developed/moved beyond this point to see the bigger picture.

One of the things I have learned (especially in the last few years) is that everyone has an idea of what it takes to "reach people." Many different ideas exist...but my experience has shown that two things are really necessary. We must engage people where they are, and we must be able to give a real answer to questions people have. As I understand the Bible, Jesus modeled this type of ministry. He met people at their point of need. This is not a geographical location but an emotional/spiritual one. He also answered their questions and responded to their misunderstandings. You and I can do the same. To be good at it, we must become good at it. (Deep huh?) If I wanted to be a good salesman, I would study how. If I wanted to become a good gardener, I would study how. If I wanted to become good at math/accounting/banking, I would study how. What separates people at this point is the desire and passion to do it.

God has allowed me to speak truth into a lot of lives in my ministry. I have led many people to Christ and still counsel many people on how to "fix" issues. My approach is pretty simple. Find where a person is, point them to where God would have them be...and encourage them to go there. I have taken the time to learn the answers to their questions. I have taken the time to learn how to communicate those answers. I have taken the time to build a relationship with them...so that they would be willing to ask. Nothing more.

There is nothing about what God has allowed me to do that is different than what God desires for all of us. Are you willing to become good at what God wants you to do?

Proverbs 16:21 is the takeaway today. This struck me because it spoke of both CONTENT (wisdom of heart) and CONTEXT (sweetness of speech). Both are necessary for maximum impact. Content...without considering context is hardly effective. Context...without content feels good but doesn't challenge or change anything. Both are needed. Say what needs to be said...but say it kindly and considerately. Doing so, will change the world.

Take Two: Hebrews 4, Proverbs 15

Chapter 4 presents the "flip side" of the argument just presented. The writer in Heb 3:12-19 spoke of those who did not enter into the Promised land due to their unbelief. In Chapter 4, the writer explains that the "promised land" is not a geography as much as it is a "state of being"/rest in the presence of God.

How does one get there? By believing God...trusting in Him and following Him by faith. The window of opportunity to believe God is not an unlimited "window." (Heb 4:1-2). The writer tells us to fear if we have not yet entered in while there is still time. We enter into this "rest" of God by responding to the Word of God with faithful obedience.

It is not that God continues to work to provide "rest." Heb 4:3-7 indicates that the "rest" God speaks of was completed at the foundation of the world. PEACE WITH GOD then is not dependent on a particular religious system, but in a faithful and accurate response toward God who has revealed Himself. In other words, Judaism is not the key. Baptist is not the key. Being part of a religious system will not accomplish the task. Believing God and acting according to His Word BY FAITH is the only way. We are not waiting on the "new" "right" way to approach God. We are looking for how God said to approach Him.

The argument now shifts to speak directly to those who thought that the "rest" or inheritance of God was a place. The writer tells us (Heb 4:8-10) that if the land was the "rest" that God had intended...then it would not have been spoken of again after Joshua. The "rest" was a ceasing from working to appease God...and receiving BY FAITH that which God had already accomplished and rested from.

Heb 4:11-16 tells us to be diligent to stay true to this "rest." The Word of God is sufficient to guide us. It is the (primary) instrument that the Holy Spirit uses to convict us and point to our need for God's mercy.
This mercy comes from our great High Priest who has been made like us in every way and can sympathize with us in every way as a result. So, (therefore) let us draw near to Him with confidence.

Some folks say that they are unable to "rest" in their relationship with God. They are uncertain that God will accept them. They think that God won't understand. While this may seem logical in some regards, it is certainly not biblical. The Bible (God's Word to us) is the ultimate authority on who God is, and How God acts/responds. Even if it seems illogical, God says that we can (and should) be confident in our approaching the throne because Jesus knows and cares.

Proverbs 15:2 is the takeaway today. How one speaks truth affects how another receives it. Some would say that "truth" is "truth," so we should not concern oursleves with how we "deliver" it. This is not so. Wise men choose their words, consider their context, and speak a timely Word. Fools...say what is on their mind. I think of those guys who yell at people in cars as they pass by. They tell them to turn to God or "burn in hell." They believe RIGHTFULLY that this is truth...but the method of delivery becomes a stumbling block. People do not hear the message and receive the knowledge because the deliverer is a fool. The truth never changes. Without God, the only possible outcome is separation from God. However, wise men know how to communicate this in such a manner as to encourage people to trust this God who acts with justice and mercy.

Grace,

Take Two: Hebrews 3, Proverbs 14

Chapter three introduces us to a difficult theological concept...that of "falling away." It will be a recurring theme in this book, since one of the primary goals of this book is to encourage Jewish believers to stand firm in the faith that is in Christ, rather than return to the empty practice of Judaism.

At a very high level, we can see that the author desires for us recognize Jesus (and the dispensation of Grace) as superior in every way to that of Moses (the dispensation of the Law) (Heb 3:1-6). The point being made is not that Moses was unfaithful; rather, it is that Moses was a faithful builder of the "house" where Jesus is Lord (Heb 3:5-6). Ultimately, as the writer points out, God is the builder of the "house"...the system through which we relate to God. Moses was faithful in all he had to do and Jesus was faithful in all He did.

There is a subtle implication here...the writer wants it to be clear that as those who were in Moses day were required to be faithful to receive the inheritance (Heb 3:12-18), his readers are required to be faithful to Jesus in whose era they live. To walk away...is to forsake the benefit of relationship.

Now the question always comes up..."can I forsake my belief and fall away?" The Reformers thought not. I concur. Those that "fall away" were never really God's people to begin with. However, that does not change the responsibility to not only be faithful (for us), but to encourage others to be faithful (Heb 3:13-14), since to forsake the faith...is to demonstrate an evil and unbelieving heart.

Some would protest that this is unnecessary...stating that if we are at all responsible for our own "security" as recipients of God's grace...then salvation is "works based." This is not true...and I will unpack that more as we get deeper into the book.

Here is the big takeaway today...for me. We are told to "take care" not to "fall away" and to encourage other so they do not "fall away." This requires some intentionality on our part to guard ourselves and to be watchguards over others. We should take that seriously. The rest...we leave to the justice and mercy of God.

Proverbs 14:6 is the takeaway today. The scoffer (one who is unteachable and resistant to wisdom...who scoffs at it) can never discover wisdom. The reason is...he cannot see the forest for the trees. He is the one who argues, questions, and rebels against God's wisdom. To the one who "applies" knowledge (has understanding)...knowledge comes easy. God is not complicated. He is complex...but not complicated. His was are not necessarily easy...but they are simple. Those that miss God...tend to be those who "overcook the grits."

Take Two: Hebrews 2, Proverbs 13

Hopefully you are seeing from the pace of this book...that you can't get behind. You also can't "speed read" through this book. The chapters of Hebrews are so "full" of theology and explanation...that you have to slow down and be very deliberate...or you will miss it. If you try to just "burn through it," to check off the list...you will likely become frustrated.

If you have ever asked, "Why did God do 'Salvation' the way He did," or "why the cross"...then this chapter is for you.

Heb 2:1-4 gives the argument from the writer of why we should pay close attention. "For this reason" points back to the previous verses. Since the ministry of the angels was both for the service of God and for the benefit of the saints...then (Heb 2:1-2) we must pay much closer attention to the account (of God's Salvation through Jesus alone) we have heard, SO THAT we do not drift away from it. Because, if what the angels said proved to be true, how can we not expect what Jesus said to be true? [Good logical application of the point the writer is making.]

Heb 2:5-8 gives the next logical connection. We trust in the angel's message...but God did not put angels in charge of the world. He gave this to Jesus. In placing the world in subjection to Jesus, God left nothing that was not subjected to Jesus.

Now you may ask, "Why did he say that?" He notes that Jesus is superior to angels...because some would have suggested that...since Jesus was crucified...then he was really lesser than the angels. They would say that angels were "celestial" beings...and Jesus was human. Angels never died...and Jesus did. Angels are powerful ministering spirits...and Jesus was killed. The "champions" of the angels are simply wondering the same thing many have asked through the years. Why does God save the world through the crucifixion of His Son? For some, they can never get over the stumbling block of the cross (Gal 5:11).

The writer concedes that Jesus was made lower than the angels (for a little while/ a season) SO THAT He would taste death for all of us (Heb 2:9). The cross is not a plan that just got out of hand...it was purposeful.

The cross is FITTING (Heb 2:10) because God brought about a substitutionary sacrifice which both SAVED all those who would believe AND SATISFIED the demands of His own holiness in judging sin for what it is in the economy of God. Through the HUMILITY (theological concept) of Christ becoming a man (not as a man...or like a man...but a man), he became perfected as the sacrifice of God by being a fitting substitution in every way. He became as man is...and became their brother. (Heb 2:10-11). The writer then supports his thesis from OT Scripture. It was exactly as God designed that Jesus would be "flesh and blood" as His brethren (humans) are...so as to defeat (render powerless) the enemy (Heb 2:14-16).

Heb 2:17-18 gives the final logical connection. THEREFORE Jesus had to be a man in every way SO THAT He could experientially be the intercessor/high priest who would make atonement for our sin.

In the media recently, they have spoken of a financial "perfect storm." They mean from this that many different things converged in a particular way and caused an outcome (perfect storm) which was impossible except for the convergence of the different factors. In the Salvation narrative...God brought together His justice, His judgment, His substitutionary sacrifice, and His grace. We see an enemy who had gained power through the Law, man who was sinful, His own Son who was perfect, and a cross which was shameful. In the Salvation narrative, God did what only He could do...in a perfect storm...He satisfied His judgment and showed His grace. We demonstrated that He is both JUST and the JUSTIFIER in a way that no other one or no other thing could ever accomplish.

If God did do this and can do this to save all of humanity from sin...isn't He worthy of our loyalty and allegience? Can't we trust Him with the other aspects of our lives?

Proverbs 13:18 is the takeaway today. Sometimes we can look at trouble or trials that come our way as "attacks of the enemy." Sometimes they are. Sometimes though...they are just the outworking of consequences for decisions/actions we have taken. A person who overextends himself with bills and credit...may find himself suffering and lacking. This is not an enemy attack...it is a lack of discipline. What does one do? Listen to the reproof (correction/ instruction) of the wise and be redeemed.

Take Two: Hebrews 1, Proverbs 12

As we begin Hebrews today, let me preface this by saying that it is one of my favorite books in the NT, and I have spent more time studying Hebrews than any other NT books, except maybe the gospel of Matthew and the pastoral epistles (Timothy and Titus). I find the book to be fascinating for a number of reasons. One of the things you will love about this book is the fact that understanding it will allow you to understand better many of the OT practices and pictures you encounter. Second, you will love the fact that it is structured (in many ways) like a sermon. (OK, that is the part I love!) The writer is making a point and uses a number of OT passages and shows how we should interpret and apply them in developing out theology. Third, the subject matter is pretty deep. We will deal with some of the more debated passages and concepts over the next 13 days together. Now...while I have studied it extensively, I never tire of reading the book. I find it to be encouraging and always find something new...or maybe better said, God still speaks to me from the pages of the book...as if it were the first time reading.

The author is unknown. Many believe this is writen by Paul...but a number of vocal opponents have stated that the internal Greek style is too different from Pauline work for it to be his. I generally think it is a work by Paul...but won't go out of my way to argue about it. I typically just refer to the author as "the writer of Hebrews" and leave it at that.

Best estimation places this as being written around ad 64-68 but certainly before ad 70 when the temple was destroyed. Since Timothy had just been released from prison (Heb 13:23), most conservative scholars date it closer to ad 68. The dating is important...because it gives cause for us to be aware of the intensifying persecution for the Christian community...particularly among those Jews who had become Christians. These guys are the primary audience in this letter.

If you were looking for an overarching theme to tie the book together, it is that Christ (the New Covenant) is far superior to the Law (the Old Covenant). The author will show time and again how the Jewish practices of the religious system were never intended to be "perfect," and as such...make the Old Covenant unfit for a recipient of the New Covenant to ever return to.

Heb 1:1-2 is a foundational introduction to this chapter...and this book. God spoke to His people in various ways and means in the past, IN PART, but now has spoken to us through His Son (who is the supreme revelation who God is). This Son is the sole heir of God (Heb 1:2), is the "exact representation" of God (Heb 1:3) and is the sustainer of all things (Heb 1:3). The Son is different from the angels since He has become (Heb 1:4), not just a Messenger of things about God...but One who has become much better than they.

To say that the Son is the "exact representation" means that He is indistinguishable from God the Father in His essence, character, attributes, power, and honor. The word used in the Greek speaks of an imprinting...not unlike our process of minting coins. Every coin is imprinted in such a way that they are exactly alike. Similarly, Jesus is exactly like God the Father.

Angels spoke of what God was like...the Son is like God in every way...the exact representation. The angels talked about...Jesus was/is.

In Heb 1:5-13, the author now defends his thesis that Jesus is greater than the angels by showing from the reader's own context how the OT revealed this all along. It is not that the writer has developed a new idea that was never before mentioned; rather, he is articulating (by bringing together the different passages) what God has said all along. PRAISE GOD for the sufficiency of the Scriptures and God's power and desire to reveal Himself to us!

Heb 1:14 closes the chapter and points that the angels (ministering spirits) not only served the sender (God) but also served those they were sent to. In other words, by listening to the "angels" which God has sent and spoken of and through...we can see that they have pointed to Jesus all along.

Proverbs 12:18 is the takeaway. The tongue is powerful. I meet folks all the time who say to me..."I am just blunt." Some even spiritualize it and say that they have the "gift of prophesy," but mean by that...that they just "call it like they see it." Words are powerful and while in themselves, they can do neither good or harm...in the hands (or mouth) of a person, they gain their intent of destruction or healing. To be discerning or prophetic in our understanding...does not necessarily mean that we are blunt/prophetic in our deliver. Sure...Jesus said to the Pharisees that they were "whitewashed tombstones and hypocrites;" but, He also dealt gently with others. Gal 6:1-2 says we are to gently restore those who are in error. It takes no tact or communication skill to tell someone they have "stinky" breath....it takes real grace to offer and have them desire to eat a tic-tac.