Week 24
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Welcome to Week 24 of the Cover to Cover Challenge!
Continue to pray for understanding and that the Holy Spirit will teach each person participating in the Cover to Cover Challenge. Jesus said in John 14:26, “The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you”. The greatest teacher that each believer has is the Holy Spirit dwelling in us. |
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Sunday • Psalms 78
Psalm 78 is a wisdom psalm that reminds the reader of God’s faithfulness by recalling past events. It also serves as a reminder for future generations that God is faithful (v1-4). Verse 2 is used by Matthew (13:35) to refer to Jesus’ teaching in parables. The psalmist uses the example of the exodus to recall not only God’s faithfulness, but the people’s response to the works of God on their behalf. In verses 5-7 the purpose of the psalm is seen. The people are to place their hope in God, not forget His works, and not be like their fathers who were unfaithful to God. Verses 8-12 show the many ways they were unfaithful, including the unfaithfulness of one whole tribe (Ephraim). God performed many miracles on behalf of His people (v13-16), but their response was to keep sinning and rebelling against Him (v17-20). This made God angry (v21-22). Despite their rebellion, God still provided for His people (v23-29). Even then, the people continued to sin and God’s wrath was moved against them (v30-33). When God displayed His wrath against them the people returned to Him, but this did not last long (v34-41). Even in wrath, God had mercy upon them. The Israelites in the wilderness should have learned a valuable lesson from the Egyptians during the exodus (v42-51). Rebelling against God brings wrath, but in obedience the Great Shepherd led the sheep to the Promised Land (v52-55). Verses 56-64 may be referring to the time of the judges when the Israelites repeatedly worshiped idols. Even in the Promised Land the people forsook God to follow other gods. God, in His sovereign plan, rose up the tribe of Judah and David to change the direction of the nation (v65-72). David’s reign was the high point of Israel’s history, and was a lesson of faithfulness to be passed on to future generations.
Psalm 78 is a wisdom psalm that reminds the reader of God’s faithfulness by recalling past events. It also serves as a reminder for future generations that God is faithful (v1-4). Verse 2 is used by Matthew (13:35) to refer to Jesus’ teaching in parables. The psalmist uses the example of the exodus to recall not only God’s faithfulness, but the people’s response to the works of God on their behalf. In verses 5-7 the purpose of the psalm is seen. The people are to place their hope in God, not forget His works, and not be like their fathers who were unfaithful to God. Verses 8-12 show the many ways they were unfaithful, including the unfaithfulness of one whole tribe (Ephraim). God performed many miracles on behalf of His people (v13-16), but their response was to keep sinning and rebelling against Him (v17-20). This made God angry (v21-22). Despite their rebellion, God still provided for His people (v23-29). Even then, the people continued to sin and God’s wrath was moved against them (v30-33). When God displayed His wrath against them the people returned to Him, but this did not last long (v34-41). Even in wrath, God had mercy upon them. The Israelites in the wilderness should have learned a valuable lesson from the Egyptians during the exodus (v42-51). Rebelling against God brings wrath, but in obedience the Great Shepherd led the sheep to the Promised Land (v52-55). Verses 56-64 may be referring to the time of the judges when the Israelites repeatedly worshiped idols. Even in the Promised Land the people forsook God to follow other gods. God, in His sovereign plan, rose up the tribe of Judah and David to change the direction of the nation (v65-72). David’s reign was the high point of Israel’s history, and was a lesson of faithfulness to be passed on to future generations.
Monday • Leviticus 6-9
Chapter 6 is a continuation of the guilt offering from 5:14-19. Atonement could be found in this offering, but restitution was still necessary for what the person did or did not do. This shows that a sin against one was a sin against both the entire community and against God (v1-7). Restitution had to be made before there could be forgiveness. Verses 8-13 concern the burnt offering. They were to make sure the sacrifice was completely consumed by not allowing the fire to go out. Verses 14-23 concern the grain offering and what to do with the leftovers. Verses 24-30 relate to the sin offering and the holiness of it. The sin offering was sacred and not to be taken lightly.
Leviticus 7:1-10 gives more rules concerning the guilt offering, with the focus on keeping it holy. Only the priest could eat the meat and cooked grain of this offering. Verses 11-38 pertain to the peace offering. If the offering was one of thanksgiving, both unleavened and leavened cakes were to be offered. What was left of the animal sacrifice was given to the offerer to enjoy a meal that symbolized peace with God and others. If it was a thanksgiving offering it was to be eaten that day, or the next day if it was a vow. Anyone who was unclean or had touched anything unclean could not eat the meal because they would be cut off from the people. This warning applied also to anyone who ate the fat or blood of any sacrificed animals. Being cut off from the people meant loss of one’s identity and covenant relationship.
Leviticus 8 is the ordination of Aaron and his sons into the priesthood. Aaron and his sons are chosen by God to be priests in verses 1-4. In verses 5-13 Aaron and his sons were symbolically purified through baths, while the oil symbolized their divine anointing. In verses 14-36 the sacrifices were made to consecrate Aaron and his sons as priests. The second ram (v24) symbolizes how the priest should hear God’s voice, do righteous deeds, and walk in God’s ways. Aaron and his sons partake in a ceremonial meal and the ordination is finished 7 days later, after they show their obedience to the Lord. This detailed ordination showed that the worship of God is very serious.
In Leviticus 9, Aaron and his sons officially take over as priests for the nation of Israel. In verses 1-14 Moses instructs Aaron to make sacrifice for himself and to educate the people about what they are to do. Aaron makes a sin offering and burnt offering for himself and his family. In verses 15-24 Aaron makes a sin, burnt, grain, and peace offering on behalf of the people. The purpose for this is to make the people ready for God to reveal Himself to the people.
Chapter 6 is a continuation of the guilt offering from 5:14-19. Atonement could be found in this offering, but restitution was still necessary for what the person did or did not do. This shows that a sin against one was a sin against both the entire community and against God (v1-7). Restitution had to be made before there could be forgiveness. Verses 8-13 concern the burnt offering. They were to make sure the sacrifice was completely consumed by not allowing the fire to go out. Verses 14-23 concern the grain offering and what to do with the leftovers. Verses 24-30 relate to the sin offering and the holiness of it. The sin offering was sacred and not to be taken lightly.
Leviticus 7:1-10 gives more rules concerning the guilt offering, with the focus on keeping it holy. Only the priest could eat the meat and cooked grain of this offering. Verses 11-38 pertain to the peace offering. If the offering was one of thanksgiving, both unleavened and leavened cakes were to be offered. What was left of the animal sacrifice was given to the offerer to enjoy a meal that symbolized peace with God and others. If it was a thanksgiving offering it was to be eaten that day, or the next day if it was a vow. Anyone who was unclean or had touched anything unclean could not eat the meal because they would be cut off from the people. This warning applied also to anyone who ate the fat or blood of any sacrificed animals. Being cut off from the people meant loss of one’s identity and covenant relationship.
Leviticus 8 is the ordination of Aaron and his sons into the priesthood. Aaron and his sons are chosen by God to be priests in verses 1-4. In verses 5-13 Aaron and his sons were symbolically purified through baths, while the oil symbolized their divine anointing. In verses 14-36 the sacrifices were made to consecrate Aaron and his sons as priests. The second ram (v24) symbolizes how the priest should hear God’s voice, do righteous deeds, and walk in God’s ways. Aaron and his sons partake in a ceremonial meal and the ordination is finished 7 days later, after they show their obedience to the Lord. This detailed ordination showed that the worship of God is very serious.
In Leviticus 9, Aaron and his sons officially take over as priests for the nation of Israel. In verses 1-14 Moses instructs Aaron to make sacrifice for himself and to educate the people about what they are to do. Aaron makes a sin offering and burnt offering for himself and his family. In verses 15-24 Aaron makes a sin, burnt, grain, and peace offering on behalf of the people. The purpose for this is to make the people ready for God to reveal Himself to the people.
Tuesday • 1 Chronicles 5-6
The families of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh are given in chapter 5. These three lived on the east side of the Jordan River. In verses 18-22 they win the victory over their enemies because they trusted in the Lord, but we also see their tragic fall. Because of their unfaithfulness, they would be the first to fall to the Assyrians.
In 1 Chronicles 6 the family of Levi is the focus. For those coming back from captivity it would have been important to know if they were descendants of Levi, in order for them to work in the temple to be built. The Gershonites, Kohathites, and Merarites will be mentioned quite often in 1 Chronicles because it identifies those who could serve in specific tasks. The Gershonites were responsible for the fabrics of the tabernacle, coverings, tents, clothes, curtains, and cords. The Kohathites were to care for the Ark of the Covenant and all related furnishings. The Merarites took care of the boards, sockets, walls, and floors. The descendants of Aaron would be the priestly line. The 48 cities mentioned were for Levites to minister in, and ensured that no person would be more than a day’s journey from a Levitical city which had a priest.
The families of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh are given in chapter 5. These three lived on the east side of the Jordan River. In verses 18-22 they win the victory over their enemies because they trusted in the Lord, but we also see their tragic fall. Because of their unfaithfulness, they would be the first to fall to the Assyrians.
In 1 Chronicles 6 the family of Levi is the focus. For those coming back from captivity it would have been important to know if they were descendants of Levi, in order for them to work in the temple to be built. The Gershonites, Kohathites, and Merarites will be mentioned quite often in 1 Chronicles because it identifies those who could serve in specific tasks. The Gershonites were responsible for the fabrics of the tabernacle, coverings, tents, clothes, curtains, and cords. The Kohathites were to care for the Ark of the Covenant and all related furnishings. The Merarites took care of the boards, sockets, walls, and floors. The descendants of Aaron would be the priestly line. The 48 cities mentioned were for Levites to minister in, and ensured that no person would be more than a day’s journey from a Levitical city which had a priest.
Wednesday • Luke 13-14
Jesus issues a call to repentance in Luke 13:1-9. Two examples are given of people losing their lives physically. Jesus uses this to show them that all people are sinners and need repentance. Verses 6-9 focus on God’s grace and mercy in giving more time to repent of their sinfulness. Jesus healing the woman on the Sabbath is unique to Luke. This story shows the arrogance and pride of those who opposed Jesus, and clarifies Jesus’ example of the fig tree in verses 6-9. The parable of the mustard seed (v18-19) teaches the growth of the kingdom of God, and the parable of the leaven (v20-21) teaches the influence of the gospel. In verses 22-30 Jesus teaches the way into the kingdom, the urgency of making the decision to believe in Him, and that people from all over the world will be a part of His kingdom. In verses 31-33, Jesus shows that God’s plan for Him will not be changed by human circumstances. Jesus would continue His ministry until God’s appointed time for it to be over. He also foretells His resurrection. Jesus weeps over the city of Jerusalem where God revealed Himself to the people. Now they are known for being the city which rejects God and His prophets (v34-35).
Luke 14:1-6 opens with Jesus healing a man on the Sabbath. This reveals, once again, the heart of the Pharisees and the love and compassion of Jesus. An event that should have led to rejoicing became one of arrogance and pride. This leads to Jesus teaching about honor in verses 7-14, condemning them of their pride and arrogance. Humility was something the Pharisees knew nothing about. The parable of the great supper also shows the urgency of responding to the invitation of salvation. As Paul mentions in 2 Corinthians 5:14-21, those who are in God’s kingdom should persuade (compel) people to be a part of the kingdom before it is too late. From verses 25-35 through chapter 18, Luke focuses on discipleship. In these verses we see the characteristics of being one of His disciples. A true disciple of Christ will give up his own desires to follow God’s will for their life.
Jesus issues a call to repentance in Luke 13:1-9. Two examples are given of people losing their lives physically. Jesus uses this to show them that all people are sinners and need repentance. Verses 6-9 focus on God’s grace and mercy in giving more time to repent of their sinfulness. Jesus healing the woman on the Sabbath is unique to Luke. This story shows the arrogance and pride of those who opposed Jesus, and clarifies Jesus’ example of the fig tree in verses 6-9. The parable of the mustard seed (v18-19) teaches the growth of the kingdom of God, and the parable of the leaven (v20-21) teaches the influence of the gospel. In verses 22-30 Jesus teaches the way into the kingdom, the urgency of making the decision to believe in Him, and that people from all over the world will be a part of His kingdom. In verses 31-33, Jesus shows that God’s plan for Him will not be changed by human circumstances. Jesus would continue His ministry until God’s appointed time for it to be over. He also foretells His resurrection. Jesus weeps over the city of Jerusalem where God revealed Himself to the people. Now they are known for being the city which rejects God and His prophets (v34-35).
Luke 14:1-6 opens with Jesus healing a man on the Sabbath. This reveals, once again, the heart of the Pharisees and the love and compassion of Jesus. An event that should have led to rejoicing became one of arrogance and pride. This leads to Jesus teaching about honor in verses 7-14, condemning them of their pride and arrogance. Humility was something the Pharisees knew nothing about. The parable of the great supper also shows the urgency of responding to the invitation of salvation. As Paul mentions in 2 Corinthians 5:14-21, those who are in God’s kingdom should persuade (compel) people to be a part of the kingdom before it is too late. From verses 25-35 through chapter 18, Luke focuses on discipleship. In these verses we see the characteristics of being one of His disciples. A true disciple of Christ will give up his own desires to follow God’s will for their life.
Thursday • Proverbs 1
Most know that Proverbs is associated with wisdom. Wisdom in Proverbs to shown to be the skill of living by using knowledge. Wisdom will help people say the right thing, and do the right thing at the right time. Solomon is attributed authorship of most of the proverbs. 1 Kings 4:32 tells us that he wrote over 3,000. The main focus of the book is to provide wisdom, that when applied will lead to a godly life. Wisdom is presented as priceless and to be treasured. Wisdom affects all areas of life-attitude, behavior, and relationships. The first 9 chapters focus on a father giving advice to his son so that he can obtain wisdom. The young man has a choice. He can either follow wisdom, or choose the way of folly. The second part begins in chapter 10 and focus on short observations, warnings, and encouragement. The definition of a proverb is a short saying that combines knowledge with action. Proverbs can also be described as help applying divine principles to life situations. If anyone wants to be wise seek, wisdom in the book of Proverbs.
The main purpose of the book of Proverbs is found in verses 1-7, with the focus being on verse 7. If someone is to obtain wisdom it begins with reverencing God. On the other hand, the fool despises wisdom and instruction. Verses 8-19 are a warning to avoid a sinful lifestyle (v10-14), and an encouragement to follow wisdom (v15-18). At the end of these comparisons there will be a conclusion as to how the ones who chose wickedness turn out, and it usually involves their own sin being turned back on them (v19). Wisdom calls out to the simple (young, naïve), the scorner (ridicules) and the fool (morally insensitive) in verses 20-33 challenging them to turn to wisdom. Verses 24-32 show the consequences of turning from wisdom, and verse 33 shows those who chose to listen to wisdom.
Most know that Proverbs is associated with wisdom. Wisdom in Proverbs to shown to be the skill of living by using knowledge. Wisdom will help people say the right thing, and do the right thing at the right time. Solomon is attributed authorship of most of the proverbs. 1 Kings 4:32 tells us that he wrote over 3,000. The main focus of the book is to provide wisdom, that when applied will lead to a godly life. Wisdom is presented as priceless and to be treasured. Wisdom affects all areas of life-attitude, behavior, and relationships. The first 9 chapters focus on a father giving advice to his son so that he can obtain wisdom. The young man has a choice. He can either follow wisdom, or choose the way of folly. The second part begins in chapter 10 and focus on short observations, warnings, and encouragement. The definition of a proverb is a short saying that combines knowledge with action. Proverbs can also be described as help applying divine principles to life situations. If anyone wants to be wise seek, wisdom in the book of Proverbs.
The main purpose of the book of Proverbs is found in verses 1-7, with the focus being on verse 7. If someone is to obtain wisdom it begins with reverencing God. On the other hand, the fool despises wisdom and instruction. Verses 8-19 are a warning to avoid a sinful lifestyle (v10-14), and an encouragement to follow wisdom (v15-18). At the end of these comparisons there will be a conclusion as to how the ones who chose wickedness turn out, and it usually involves their own sin being turned back on them (v19). Wisdom calls out to the simple (young, naïve), the scorner (ridicules) and the fool (morally insensitive) in verses 20-33 challenging them to turn to wisdom. Verses 24-32 show the consequences of turning from wisdom, and verse 33 shows those who chose to listen to wisdom.
Friday • Ezekiel 8-13
Chapters 8-11 are one vision received by Ezekiel. This occurred while he was still lying on his right side bearing the sins of Judah (4:6). The main purpose of the vision was to show the reason for the coming judgment. This whole vision is to contrast the glory of God and the wickedness of the leadership of the nation for falling into idolatry (v1-6). The north gate is the gate where the altar of sacrifice is located. After being told to dig through a hole in the wall, Ezekiel sees the leaders worshipping idols in secret (v7-12)-see Romans 1:23. They believed that God did not see them and that He was no longer with them. In verses 13-14 Ezekiel observes women weeping for Tammuz which was also known as Adonis and Aphrodite by name. In verses 15-16 Ezekiel observes 25 men worshipping the sun. The chapter closes with God declaring judgment on Judah for their idolatry (v17-18).
In Ezekiel 9:1-4 the Lord calls on the men who will execute the judgment in Jerusalem. The man with the inkhorn was to mark all of those who had genuine remorse and concern for the sins of the people. In verses 5-8 the judgment begins to take place. They were not to spare anyone who did not have the mark of God on them. Ezekiel pleads with God to spare the people. In verses 9-11, God tells Ezekiel that the wickedness of the people is great because they have denied Him.
In Ezekiel 10:1-7 the man in linen who had the inkhorn is instructed to take coals of fire from the cherubim and pour them out in judgment on the city, perhaps to purify it. The cherubim in verses 8-17 and 20-22 are the same as described in chapter 1. Cherubim are presented in the Old Testament as guardians (Gen. 3:24) and worshippers on the mercy seat (Ex. 25:18-20). One of the main themes of Ezekiel is the departure and return of God’s glory. God’s glory leaves the temple in verse 18 and goes to the east gate. Earlier Scriptures said that if the people strayed from God’s ways, His glory would depart from them (Deut. 31:17, Hosea 9:12).
In Ezekiel 11:1-4 Ezekiel is brought to the East Gate and sees 25 men led by Jaazaniah and Pelatiah. They had given the people evil counsel, and had led them into sin. Verse 3 is basically saying that Jerusalem is the pot (security), and the people the meat (safe from harm). Ezekiel prophesies to the leaders that their sin was not hidden from God (v4-6). In God’s judgment, these leaders would be placed outside the pot (Jerusalem) and slain (v7-12). Proof that Ezekiel’s words were from God is the death of Pelatiah in verse 13. Verses 14-21 contain the first mention of a future restoration. Even though they are in exile, God will still be with them. One day He would regather them, restore to them the land, cleanse the land, and fulfill a new covenant with them (Jer. 31:31-34, Ez. 36:26-27). In verses 22-25 God’s glory departs to the mountains, and Ezekiel shares his vision with those in exile with him.
In chapters 12-19, Ezekiel will counter the people’s rejection of his warnings. In chapter 12 the people reason that judgment would not come in their lifetime. In chapter 13 the people say that Ezekiel is only one prophet of many, so why should they listen to him. Chapter 14 is about the corrupt leaders, and if judgment is coming it should only fall on them. Chapters 15-16 show the people believed that God would not judge them because they belonged to Him. In chapter 17 the people believed God would not judge them for their ancestor’s sins. In chapter 18 the people believed that if judgment was coming it would not be stopped, even if they repented. Finally in chapter 19 the people believe Zedekiah (the king) could be trusted, and that he would stop the Babylonians. In 12:1-7 Ezekiel would continue to act as a sign to the people. In these verses he is acting out the process of going into exile, showing that there would be more exiles to come and they would not be going back anytime soon. Ezekiel would explain his sign to them in verses 8-16, which would also include Zedekiah (the prince). Zedekiah would be carried away into captivity, see his sons killed, and be blinded and killed in Babylon (2Kgs. 25:5,7; Jer. 39:6-7). The sign in verses 17-20 was to show the fear that would come on Jerusalem and Judah when their cities were destroyed and ruined. This would allow the people to see that God was faithful to His promises. The people’s problem, as mentioned earlier, was they did not believe any of Ezekiel’s words and that what he said would not happen (v21-28). God’s response in verses 26-28 was that judgment will no longer be delayed.
Ezekiel 13 condemns the false prophets who prophesied peace when there was no peace. In verses 1-7 we see that the foolish prophets relied upon their own selfish hearts and did not seek God. The word “foolish” in Old Testament meant someone who was spiritually and morally insensitive. These foolish prophets could not stand in the gap for the people because of their sinfulness. The prophets would be cut off from among the people and allowed to come back (v8-16). Those foolish prophets who helped people repair their walls would see the walls torn down, and their own lives torn down with them. The women who were false prophets would also come under the judgment of God (v17-23). These women led people into their sin and caused many people to die. Not only this, but they also encouraged those who were already wicked to continue in their ways.
Chapters 8-11 are one vision received by Ezekiel. This occurred while he was still lying on his right side bearing the sins of Judah (4:6). The main purpose of the vision was to show the reason for the coming judgment. This whole vision is to contrast the glory of God and the wickedness of the leadership of the nation for falling into idolatry (v1-6). The north gate is the gate where the altar of sacrifice is located. After being told to dig through a hole in the wall, Ezekiel sees the leaders worshipping idols in secret (v7-12)-see Romans 1:23. They believed that God did not see them and that He was no longer with them. In verses 13-14 Ezekiel observes women weeping for Tammuz which was also known as Adonis and Aphrodite by name. In verses 15-16 Ezekiel observes 25 men worshipping the sun. The chapter closes with God declaring judgment on Judah for their idolatry (v17-18).
In Ezekiel 9:1-4 the Lord calls on the men who will execute the judgment in Jerusalem. The man with the inkhorn was to mark all of those who had genuine remorse and concern for the sins of the people. In verses 5-8 the judgment begins to take place. They were not to spare anyone who did not have the mark of God on them. Ezekiel pleads with God to spare the people. In verses 9-11, God tells Ezekiel that the wickedness of the people is great because they have denied Him.
In Ezekiel 10:1-7 the man in linen who had the inkhorn is instructed to take coals of fire from the cherubim and pour them out in judgment on the city, perhaps to purify it. The cherubim in verses 8-17 and 20-22 are the same as described in chapter 1. Cherubim are presented in the Old Testament as guardians (Gen. 3:24) and worshippers on the mercy seat (Ex. 25:18-20). One of the main themes of Ezekiel is the departure and return of God’s glory. God’s glory leaves the temple in verse 18 and goes to the east gate. Earlier Scriptures said that if the people strayed from God’s ways, His glory would depart from them (Deut. 31:17, Hosea 9:12).
In Ezekiel 11:1-4 Ezekiel is brought to the East Gate and sees 25 men led by Jaazaniah and Pelatiah. They had given the people evil counsel, and had led them into sin. Verse 3 is basically saying that Jerusalem is the pot (security), and the people the meat (safe from harm). Ezekiel prophesies to the leaders that their sin was not hidden from God (v4-6). In God’s judgment, these leaders would be placed outside the pot (Jerusalem) and slain (v7-12). Proof that Ezekiel’s words were from God is the death of Pelatiah in verse 13. Verses 14-21 contain the first mention of a future restoration. Even though they are in exile, God will still be with them. One day He would regather them, restore to them the land, cleanse the land, and fulfill a new covenant with them (Jer. 31:31-34, Ez. 36:26-27). In verses 22-25 God’s glory departs to the mountains, and Ezekiel shares his vision with those in exile with him.
In chapters 12-19, Ezekiel will counter the people’s rejection of his warnings. In chapter 12 the people reason that judgment would not come in their lifetime. In chapter 13 the people say that Ezekiel is only one prophet of many, so why should they listen to him. Chapter 14 is about the corrupt leaders, and if judgment is coming it should only fall on them. Chapters 15-16 show the people believed that God would not judge them because they belonged to Him. In chapter 17 the people believed God would not judge them for their ancestor’s sins. In chapter 18 the people believed that if judgment was coming it would not be stopped, even if they repented. Finally in chapter 19 the people believe Zedekiah (the king) could be trusted, and that he would stop the Babylonians. In 12:1-7 Ezekiel would continue to act as a sign to the people. In these verses he is acting out the process of going into exile, showing that there would be more exiles to come and they would not be going back anytime soon. Ezekiel would explain his sign to them in verses 8-16, which would also include Zedekiah (the prince). Zedekiah would be carried away into captivity, see his sons killed, and be blinded and killed in Babylon (2Kgs. 25:5,7; Jer. 39:6-7). The sign in verses 17-20 was to show the fear that would come on Jerusalem and Judah when their cities were destroyed and ruined. This would allow the people to see that God was faithful to His promises. The people’s problem, as mentioned earlier, was they did not believe any of Ezekiel’s words and that what he said would not happen (v21-28). God’s response in verses 26-28 was that judgment will no longer be delayed.
Ezekiel 13 condemns the false prophets who prophesied peace when there was no peace. In verses 1-7 we see that the foolish prophets relied upon their own selfish hearts and did not seek God. The word “foolish” in Old Testament meant someone who was spiritually and morally insensitive. These foolish prophets could not stand in the gap for the people because of their sinfulness. The prophets would be cut off from among the people and allowed to come back (v8-16). Those foolish prophets who helped people repair their walls would see the walls torn down, and their own lives torn down with them. The women who were false prophets would also come under the judgment of God (v17-23). These women led people into their sin and caused many people to die. Not only this, but they also encouraged those who were already wicked to continue in their ways.
Saturday • Romans 7-8
Paul continues to deal with the issue of our sinful nature in Romans 7. In verses 1-6, Paul uses the example of marriage. Just as death breaks the marriage vow, believing in Christ breaks our “marriage” to sin. The one who has believed in Christ is delivered from the law, and now led by the Spirit. In verses 7-12 Paul argues for the benefits of the law. The law pointed out that Paul, and each of us, are sinful people. Salvation has never come from keeping the law. Only salvation found in Christ alone can provide salvation, which Paul explains in verses 13-25. Even after salvation, there is an ongoing battle with sin that rages in each believer because of the sinfulness of our flesh.
Romans 8 is considered by many to be the greatest chapter in all of Scripture. Another benefit of salvation is living in the power of the Holy Spirit. In this chapter alone, the Holy Spirit is mentioned 19 times. In verses 1-11 it is by the power of the Holy Spirit that we can have true freedom from the power of sin in our lives. Verse 9 makes it clear-if you do not have the Holy Spirit, then you do not belong to Christ. Since we still living in the flesh we need the Holy Spirit to help us put to death the deeds of the flesh (v11-17). If we live our lives according to the Spirit, then we will have assurance in knowing that we are the children of God and heirs of Christ. In verses 18-23 Paul contrasts the present suffering of this life (probably our daily battle with sin) with the future glory that awaits. The term “earnest expectation” in verse 19 pictures someone leaning forward in interest (redemption of our bodies, looking forward to eternity). It is in these things we have hope and eagerly await for them to come to pass (v24-25). In verses 26-27 it is the Holy Spirit that intercedes for us, when we pray especially when we do not know what to pray. Verses 28-39 speak of God’s love for His people that goes back to eternity past, brings us all the way to the present, and continues into to the future. God works all things out for the good in a believer’s life so that we can be conformed into the image of His Son. Nothing can separate us from the love of Christ. We win life’s victories through Christ.
Paul continues to deal with the issue of our sinful nature in Romans 7. In verses 1-6, Paul uses the example of marriage. Just as death breaks the marriage vow, believing in Christ breaks our “marriage” to sin. The one who has believed in Christ is delivered from the law, and now led by the Spirit. In verses 7-12 Paul argues for the benefits of the law. The law pointed out that Paul, and each of us, are sinful people. Salvation has never come from keeping the law. Only salvation found in Christ alone can provide salvation, which Paul explains in verses 13-25. Even after salvation, there is an ongoing battle with sin that rages in each believer because of the sinfulness of our flesh.
Romans 8 is considered by many to be the greatest chapter in all of Scripture. Another benefit of salvation is living in the power of the Holy Spirit. In this chapter alone, the Holy Spirit is mentioned 19 times. In verses 1-11 it is by the power of the Holy Spirit that we can have true freedom from the power of sin in our lives. Verse 9 makes it clear-if you do not have the Holy Spirit, then you do not belong to Christ. Since we still living in the flesh we need the Holy Spirit to help us put to death the deeds of the flesh (v11-17). If we live our lives according to the Spirit, then we will have assurance in knowing that we are the children of God and heirs of Christ. In verses 18-23 Paul contrasts the present suffering of this life (probably our daily battle with sin) with the future glory that awaits. The term “earnest expectation” in verse 19 pictures someone leaning forward in interest (redemption of our bodies, looking forward to eternity). It is in these things we have hope and eagerly await for them to come to pass (v24-25). In verses 26-27 it is the Holy Spirit that intercedes for us, when we pray especially when we do not know what to pray. Verses 28-39 speak of God’s love for His people that goes back to eternity past, brings us all the way to the present, and continues into to the future. God works all things out for the good in a believer’s life so that we can be conformed into the image of His Son. Nothing can separate us from the love of Christ. We win life’s victories through Christ.
Bibliography
Barker, Kenneth L. Expositor’s Bible Commentary OT/NT. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1994.
Bible Study Press. The NET Bible First Edition Notes. Biblical Studies Press, 2006.
Bock, Darrell L. Baker Exegetical Commentary: Luke. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 1994.
Bruce F.F. TNTC: Romans. Downers Grove: IVP Academic, 1985.
Longman, Tremper. Layman’s Old Testament Bible Commentary. Uhrichsville: Barbour Publishing, 2010.
MacArthur, John Jr. The MacArthur Study Bible. Nashville: Word Publishers, 1997.
Mare, W. Harold. NT Background Commentary: Words, Phrases, and Situations.Rosshire: Mentor, 2004.
Selman, Martin J. TOTC:1 Chronicles. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1994.
Willmington, H.L. The Outline Bible. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 1999.
Wiseman, Donal J. TOTC: Ezekiel. Downers Grove: InterVaristy Press, 1969.
Wiseman, Donald J. TOTC: Leviticus. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1980.
Cover to Cover Challenge logo and printed materials are property of Nazareth Baptist Church and Pastor Jason Bell. Please do not copy without written permission.
Bible Study Press. The NET Bible First Edition Notes. Biblical Studies Press, 2006.
Bock, Darrell L. Baker Exegetical Commentary: Luke. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 1994.
Bruce F.F. TNTC: Romans. Downers Grove: IVP Academic, 1985.
Longman, Tremper. Layman’s Old Testament Bible Commentary. Uhrichsville: Barbour Publishing, 2010.
MacArthur, John Jr. The MacArthur Study Bible. Nashville: Word Publishers, 1997.
Mare, W. Harold. NT Background Commentary: Words, Phrases, and Situations.Rosshire: Mentor, 2004.
Selman, Martin J. TOTC:1 Chronicles. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1994.
Willmington, H.L. The Outline Bible. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 1999.
Wiseman, Donal J. TOTC: Ezekiel. Downers Grove: InterVaristy Press, 1969.
Wiseman, Donald J. TOTC: Leviticus. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1980.
Cover to Cover Challenge logo and printed materials are property of Nazareth Baptist Church and Pastor Jason Bell. Please do not copy without written permission.