Week 37
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Welcome to Week 37 of the Cover to Cover Challenge!
Continue to pray for all of those who are reading God’s Word together through the week. Also, that the Lord be honored and glorified. Psalm 100:4 says “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise, be thankful to Him, and bless His name." |
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Sunday • Psalms 110-112
Psalm 110 is a royal and messianic psalm. Jesus applies this psalm to Himself in Matthew 22:41-45 and it is quoted many times in the New Testament (Mark 12:35-37; Acts 2:34-35; Hebrews 1:13, 5:6, 7:17-21). Making an enemy your “footstool” comes from the ancient custom of the winning king of the battle placing his foot on the neck of the losing king (v1). The Messiah will also have a kingdom that is strong and growing (v2) and will have many supporters (v3). The Messiah will also be a priest after the order of Melchizedek which shows His priesthood to be of a higher order and eternal in length (v4). He will also overcome His enemies and rule while judging the nations (v5-7).
Psalm 111 is a wisdom psalm that celebrates the works of the Lord. In verses 1-3 the psalmist invites all to praise God because of His works. These “honorable and glorious” works are to be studied as they reveal the characteristics of God. In verses 4-9 the psalmist encourages the people to remember all of the great works of the Lord. The giving of food and the covenant shows that God is gracious and compassionate, as well as faithful. Because of His great works the people should respond with fear of the Lord that will result in them gaining wisdom (v10).
Psalm 112 is also a wisdom psalm that shows a contrast between the righteous and the wicked. In verses 1-3 those who fear the Lord are blessed with descendants, wealth, and honor. Even when hard times come (darkness), they are given light to endure in their way (v4, 6-8). Those who fear the Lord are also concerned with those in need and they are just in their dealings with them (v5). In contrast, the wicked will be filled with anger and jealousy when the Lord rewards the righteous (v10).
Psalm 110 is a royal and messianic psalm. Jesus applies this psalm to Himself in Matthew 22:41-45 and it is quoted many times in the New Testament (Mark 12:35-37; Acts 2:34-35; Hebrews 1:13, 5:6, 7:17-21). Making an enemy your “footstool” comes from the ancient custom of the winning king of the battle placing his foot on the neck of the losing king (v1). The Messiah will also have a kingdom that is strong and growing (v2) and will have many supporters (v3). The Messiah will also be a priest after the order of Melchizedek which shows His priesthood to be of a higher order and eternal in length (v4). He will also overcome His enemies and rule while judging the nations (v5-7).
Psalm 111 is a wisdom psalm that celebrates the works of the Lord. In verses 1-3 the psalmist invites all to praise God because of His works. These “honorable and glorious” works are to be studied as they reveal the characteristics of God. In verses 4-9 the psalmist encourages the people to remember all of the great works of the Lord. The giving of food and the covenant shows that God is gracious and compassionate, as well as faithful. Because of His great works the people should respond with fear of the Lord that will result in them gaining wisdom (v10).
Psalm 112 is also a wisdom psalm that shows a contrast between the righteous and the wicked. In verses 1-3 those who fear the Lord are blessed with descendants, wealth, and honor. Even when hard times come (darkness), they are given light to endure in their way (v4, 6-8). Those who fear the Lord are also concerned with those in need and they are just in their dealings with them (v5). In contrast, the wicked will be filled with anger and jealousy when the Lord rewards the righteous (v10).
Monday • Numbers 17-21
Numbers 17 is going to affirm the rule of Moses and Aaron. In verses 1-7 Moses instructs the leader of each tribe to bring a rod to be placed before the Lord. Each rod was to have their tribe name on it. The staff that sprouts leaves will be the one whom God has chosen to lead. The next day Moses finds that Aaron’s rod not only sprouted leaves but it also had buds, blossoms, and had produced almonds (v8-13). This supernatural act done by God led to the almond branch becoming a symbol of life. Instead of questioning the leadership of Moses and Aaron, now the people are afraid they are going to die. Numbers 18-19 will teach the people about how they can approach God
Numbers 18 lays out the functions of the Levites in how they are to serve Aaron and his sons. In verses 1-7 the priestly roles are reiterated from Numbers 3-4. The priests can keep some of the offerings from the people, and they are divided into two categories (v8-19). The most holy offerings are the grain, sin, and guilt offerings. The other category is the first fruits and the firstborn offerings, which are to be treated as special gifts from God and returned to Him. The tribute from the people of Israel is a gift from God for the priestly families (v19). The Levites will not receive any land because God is their inheritance (v20-24). In verses 25-32 the Levites are responsible to tithe to God out of the tithes they receive for their work. They are to give the very best of what is given to them.
Numbers 19 deals with the purification process for those who touch dead bodies. This would be needed because of the many deaths the children of Israel will experience over the next 40 years. In verses 1-13 the red heifer ritual is described. Its blood is to be mixed with cedar wood, hyssop, and scarlet. These are the same ingredients for sprinkling lepers in Leviticus 14:4-7. Eleazar is chosen instead of the high priest because the one who performs this task will be unclean until evening. Verses 14-22 explain those who need to be sprinkled with the mixture.
Numbers 20 is one of the saddest chapters in the life of the Israelites. Miriam dies in verse 1, and the people are still complaining against Moses and Aaron (v2-13). God instructs Moses to take the rod, call Israel together, and speak to the rock to get water. Instead of speaking, Moses strikes the rock twice disobeying God’s command. Moses and Aaron are also guilty of not believing what God said. Because of these two acts, neither Aaron nor Moses will enter the Promised Land. Moses asks permission twice from the Edomites to pass through their land but they refuse (v14-21). In verses 22-29 Aaron dies, passing on the responsibilities of high priest to his son.
Numbers 17 is going to affirm the rule of Moses and Aaron. In verses 1-7 Moses instructs the leader of each tribe to bring a rod to be placed before the Lord. Each rod was to have their tribe name on it. The staff that sprouts leaves will be the one whom God has chosen to lead. The next day Moses finds that Aaron’s rod not only sprouted leaves but it also had buds, blossoms, and had produced almonds (v8-13). This supernatural act done by God led to the almond branch becoming a symbol of life. Instead of questioning the leadership of Moses and Aaron, now the people are afraid they are going to die. Numbers 18-19 will teach the people about how they can approach God
Numbers 18 lays out the functions of the Levites in how they are to serve Aaron and his sons. In verses 1-7 the priestly roles are reiterated from Numbers 3-4. The priests can keep some of the offerings from the people, and they are divided into two categories (v8-19). The most holy offerings are the grain, sin, and guilt offerings. The other category is the first fruits and the firstborn offerings, which are to be treated as special gifts from God and returned to Him. The tribute from the people of Israel is a gift from God for the priestly families (v19). The Levites will not receive any land because God is their inheritance (v20-24). In verses 25-32 the Levites are responsible to tithe to God out of the tithes they receive for their work. They are to give the very best of what is given to them.
Numbers 19 deals with the purification process for those who touch dead bodies. This would be needed because of the many deaths the children of Israel will experience over the next 40 years. In verses 1-13 the red heifer ritual is described. Its blood is to be mixed with cedar wood, hyssop, and scarlet. These are the same ingredients for sprinkling lepers in Leviticus 14:4-7. Eleazar is chosen instead of the high priest because the one who performs this task will be unclean until evening. Verses 14-22 explain those who need to be sprinkled with the mixture.
Numbers 20 is one of the saddest chapters in the life of the Israelites. Miriam dies in verse 1, and the people are still complaining against Moses and Aaron (v2-13). God instructs Moses to take the rod, call Israel together, and speak to the rock to get water. Instead of speaking, Moses strikes the rock twice disobeying God’s command. Moses and Aaron are also guilty of not believing what God said. Because of these two acts, neither Aaron nor Moses will enter the Promised Land. Moses asks permission twice from the Edomites to pass through their land but they refuse (v14-21). In verses 22-29 Aaron dies, passing on the responsibilities of high priest to his son.
Tuesday • 1 Kings 5-8
1 Kings 5-8 covers the building and dedication of the temple. 1 Kings 5 details the preparations (v1-12) and workforce (v13-18) behind the building of the temple. In verses 1-12 we read about the relationship between Solomon and Hiram the king of Tyre. Verse 12 serves to show that Solomon organized all of this endeavor by using the wisdom God had given him.
In 1 Kings 6 the temple building project begins in the 4th year of Solomon’s reign (v1). 2 Chronicles 3:1 states that Mount Moriah is where the temple is built. Verses 2-10 give the dimensions of the outer structure of the temple and the materials used in building it. In verses 12-13 God reminds Solomon that for him to experience His blessing he had to walk as his father David walked before the Lord. The key here is obedience to God’s word. The highlight of the inner structure (v15-35) is the Most Holy Place, or the Holiest of Holies, where the Ark of the Covenant would dwell. From start to finish the building of the temple took 7 years (v37-38).
1 Kings 7:1-12 describes all the other buildings that made up one large complex within the courtyard. Huram was hired to do all the work because God had given him wisdom in working with precious metals (v13-14; 2 Chron. 2:14). Verses 15-22 describe the two bronze pillars named Jachin (“He Established”) and Boaz (“By Him He Is Mighty”). The bronze Sea (v23-26), and the ten basins with their stands were also built by Huram (v27-39). Verses 40-47 contain a list that summarizes all of Huram’s work. All of the golden furnishings within the temple are described in verses 48-50. Solomon also brought all of David’s gifts into the treasury that he dedicated to the Lord (v51).
In 1 Kings 8:1-13 the Ark of the Covenant is moved into the Most Holy Place. The completion of the temple showed that God’s presence would be among them and that He would be their God. In verses 14-21 Solomon addresses all who are gathered together to dedicate the temple. God has fulfilled His promise to David by Solomon becoming king and by allowing him to build a house for the Lord. Solomon’s prayer in verses 22-53 concerns 7 specific requests that God hear the prayers of the people regarding: (1) oaths brought before the Lord, (2) forgiveness after being defeated by the enemy, (3) drought brought on by the sins of the people, (4) economic disruptions caused by famine and plagues, (5) that the Gentiles would desire to know God, (6) that God would hear the prayers of those who had no access to the temple, and (7) when the people sin against God He would hear their prayers. After praying Solomon addresses the crowd once more in verses 54-61; asking the Lord to always be with them, never forsake them, and to remember His people so others can know Him. In verses 62-66 all of Israel joins Solomon in sacrificing to the Lord.
1 Kings 5-8 covers the building and dedication of the temple. 1 Kings 5 details the preparations (v1-12) and workforce (v13-18) behind the building of the temple. In verses 1-12 we read about the relationship between Solomon and Hiram the king of Tyre. Verse 12 serves to show that Solomon organized all of this endeavor by using the wisdom God had given him.
In 1 Kings 6 the temple building project begins in the 4th year of Solomon’s reign (v1). 2 Chronicles 3:1 states that Mount Moriah is where the temple is built. Verses 2-10 give the dimensions of the outer structure of the temple and the materials used in building it. In verses 12-13 God reminds Solomon that for him to experience His blessing he had to walk as his father David walked before the Lord. The key here is obedience to God’s word. The highlight of the inner structure (v15-35) is the Most Holy Place, or the Holiest of Holies, where the Ark of the Covenant would dwell. From start to finish the building of the temple took 7 years (v37-38).
1 Kings 7:1-12 describes all the other buildings that made up one large complex within the courtyard. Huram was hired to do all the work because God had given him wisdom in working with precious metals (v13-14; 2 Chron. 2:14). Verses 15-22 describe the two bronze pillars named Jachin (“He Established”) and Boaz (“By Him He Is Mighty”). The bronze Sea (v23-26), and the ten basins with their stands were also built by Huram (v27-39). Verses 40-47 contain a list that summarizes all of Huram’s work. All of the golden furnishings within the temple are described in verses 48-50. Solomon also brought all of David’s gifts into the treasury that he dedicated to the Lord (v51).
In 1 Kings 8:1-13 the Ark of the Covenant is moved into the Most Holy Place. The completion of the temple showed that God’s presence would be among them and that He would be their God. In verses 14-21 Solomon addresses all who are gathered together to dedicate the temple. God has fulfilled His promise to David by Solomon becoming king and by allowing him to build a house for the Lord. Solomon’s prayer in verses 22-53 concerns 7 specific requests that God hear the prayers of the people regarding: (1) oaths brought before the Lord, (2) forgiveness after being defeated by the enemy, (3) drought brought on by the sins of the people, (4) economic disruptions caused by famine and plagues, (5) that the Gentiles would desire to know God, (6) that God would hear the prayers of those who had no access to the temple, and (7) when the people sin against God He would hear their prayers. After praying Solomon addresses the crowd once more in verses 54-61; asking the Lord to always be with them, never forsake them, and to remember His people so others can know Him. In verses 62-66 all of Israel joins Solomon in sacrificing to the Lord.
Wednesday • John 18-19
John 18-19 is John’s story of the crucifixion. There are two points that John will be making, which are also the themes found earlier in John. First, Jesus is King (1:49; 12:13; 19:19), and Jesus is the Lamb of God (1:29,36; 19:14,31). In John 18:1 you can insert Luke 22:39-46 where He went to pray with the disciples. In verses 1-11 Jesus is betrayed by Judas. In verse 6 the power of Jesus was put on display, but this verse also shows His willingness to go with them to be crucified. Also in verse 10 we learn Malchus is the one whom Peter cut off his ear. Luke 22:51 records that Jesus healed the man’s ear, which also showed His power. Jesus is brought before Annas in verses 12-14 and is questioned by him in verses 19-24. Jesus had three Jewish trials: here before Annas, before Caiaphas in Matthew 26:57-68, and the next morning in Luke 22:66-71. Verses 15-18 and 25-27 deal with Peter’s denial of Jesus. Jesus appears before Pilate in verses 28-38. The Jewish leaders were about to crucify an innocent Jesus, but would not go into the Praetorium because they would be defiled and not able to celebrate the Passover. This shows the true state of their heart. In verses 39-40 Jesus takes Barabbas’ place as he is released. Barabbas means “son of the father”. The true Son of the Father is going to take his place and be crucified.
In John 19:1-4 Jesus is taken and scourged, and for the second time Pilate finds no fault in Him. In verses 5-16 the Jews want Jesus crucified, and for the third and final time Pilate finds no fault in Him. Jesus is being charged with blasphemy by the Jews and insurrection for making Himself to be a king. Pilate could find no way to release Him, even though he believed Jesus was innocent. The mention of the Preparation Day in verse 14 is the day the lambs would be slaughtered to prepare for Passover. Jesus is crucified in verses 17-24, and He gives responsibility of caring for His mother to John in verses 25-27. In verses 28-30 Jesus dies upon the cross of Calvary. The term “It is finished!” means “paid in full”. In verses 31-37 is shown to be the true Passover Lamb, none of His bones were broken (Ex. 12:10). Joseph and Nicodemus take down the body of Jesus and bury Him in the tomb (v38-42).
John 18-19 is John’s story of the crucifixion. There are two points that John will be making, which are also the themes found earlier in John. First, Jesus is King (1:49; 12:13; 19:19), and Jesus is the Lamb of God (1:29,36; 19:14,31). In John 18:1 you can insert Luke 22:39-46 where He went to pray with the disciples. In verses 1-11 Jesus is betrayed by Judas. In verse 6 the power of Jesus was put on display, but this verse also shows His willingness to go with them to be crucified. Also in verse 10 we learn Malchus is the one whom Peter cut off his ear. Luke 22:51 records that Jesus healed the man’s ear, which also showed His power. Jesus is brought before Annas in verses 12-14 and is questioned by him in verses 19-24. Jesus had three Jewish trials: here before Annas, before Caiaphas in Matthew 26:57-68, and the next morning in Luke 22:66-71. Verses 15-18 and 25-27 deal with Peter’s denial of Jesus. Jesus appears before Pilate in verses 28-38. The Jewish leaders were about to crucify an innocent Jesus, but would not go into the Praetorium because they would be defiled and not able to celebrate the Passover. This shows the true state of their heart. In verses 39-40 Jesus takes Barabbas’ place as he is released. Barabbas means “son of the father”. The true Son of the Father is going to take his place and be crucified.
In John 19:1-4 Jesus is taken and scourged, and for the second time Pilate finds no fault in Him. In verses 5-16 the Jews want Jesus crucified, and for the third and final time Pilate finds no fault in Him. Jesus is being charged with blasphemy by the Jews and insurrection for making Himself to be a king. Pilate could find no way to release Him, even though he believed Jesus was innocent. The mention of the Preparation Day in verse 14 is the day the lambs would be slaughtered to prepare for Passover. Jesus is crucified in verses 17-24, and He gives responsibility of caring for His mother to John in verses 25-27. In verses 28-30 Jesus dies upon the cross of Calvary. The term “It is finished!” means “paid in full”. In verses 31-37 is shown to be the true Passover Lamb, none of His bones were broken (Ex. 12:10). Joseph and Nicodemus take down the body of Jesus and bury Him in the tomb (v38-42).
Thursday • Proverbs 19
Verse 1 is teaching that honesty and integrity should be pursued in life. Verse 2 serves as a warning against being impulsive. In verse 3 there is a warning for those who follow their own way but blame God when it goes wrong. Verse 4 is teaching that true friendship does not care whether one is rich or poor. The “friends” of the rich may not be friends at all. Verses 5 and 9 warn against speaking lies. Verse 6 may also serve as a warning to people in power about choosing their friends wisely. Just the opposite of the rich, the poor have no friends (v7). This is thought to be an encouragement to them to find their well-being in God. Verse 8 serves as an encouragement to keep seeking wisdom. Verse 10 is teaching that neither the fool nor the servant are ready to rule because of their lack of self-control. Verse 11 shows that a wise man has self-control. This is essential for a leader, because the power of a leader can be used for the wrong reasons (v12). Issues with family relationships can cause harm within the home (v13). That is why it is important to seek wisdom when pursuing a wife (spouse,14). Laziness causes many problems in someone’s life (v15). Obedience to God’s Word can mean life or death (v16), this can be taught at home by the parents through discipline (v18). Verse 17 teaches compassion and being generous to those less fortunate. Verse 19 warns against those who cannot control their emotions. In verses 20-23 wisdom comes from fearing the Lord, which also can be described as listening to and obeying His commandments. The one who does will find themselves in God’s will (v21), will be content (v22), and will not experience trouble (v23). Verse 24 is another warning about laziness. Correct a scoffer and he will not listen to you, but correct a wise person and he will learn from it (v25). Verse 26 shows the outcome for those who fail to discipline their children. Verse 27 is a warning for those who have stopped listening to wisdom. Those who are worthless witnesses (liars) will be judged and punished (v29).
Verse 1 is teaching that honesty and integrity should be pursued in life. Verse 2 serves as a warning against being impulsive. In verse 3 there is a warning for those who follow their own way but blame God when it goes wrong. Verse 4 is teaching that true friendship does not care whether one is rich or poor. The “friends” of the rich may not be friends at all. Verses 5 and 9 warn against speaking lies. Verse 6 may also serve as a warning to people in power about choosing their friends wisely. Just the opposite of the rich, the poor have no friends (v7). This is thought to be an encouragement to them to find their well-being in God. Verse 8 serves as an encouragement to keep seeking wisdom. Verse 10 is teaching that neither the fool nor the servant are ready to rule because of their lack of self-control. Verse 11 shows that a wise man has self-control. This is essential for a leader, because the power of a leader can be used for the wrong reasons (v12). Issues with family relationships can cause harm within the home (v13). That is why it is important to seek wisdom when pursuing a wife (spouse,14). Laziness causes many problems in someone’s life (v15). Obedience to God’s Word can mean life or death (v16), this can be taught at home by the parents through discipline (v18). Verse 17 teaches compassion and being generous to those less fortunate. Verse 19 warns against those who cannot control their emotions. In verses 20-23 wisdom comes from fearing the Lord, which also can be described as listening to and obeying His commandments. The one who does will find themselves in God’s will (v21), will be content (v22), and will not experience trouble (v23). Verse 24 is another warning about laziness. Correct a scoffer and he will not listen to you, but correct a wise person and he will learn from it (v25). Verse 26 shows the outcome for those who fail to discipline their children. Verse 27 is a warning for those who have stopped listening to wisdom. Those who are worthless witnesses (liars) will be judged and punished (v29).
Friday • Jeremiah 28-31
Last week in Jeremiah 27, Jeremiah used the symbol of the yoke to portray the coming domination of Babylon over the nations. God gave specific instructions to many nations through Jeremiah to submit to their authority. Here in Jeremiah 28 Hananiah, a false prophet, will speak a different message than what Jeremiah has spoken. In verses 1-4 Hananiah claimed that God was going to break the yoke of the Babylonians, bring back the captives and the vessels, and bring Jehoiachin back from exile. Jeremiah answers in verses 5-9 with an appeal to past prophets and directions for how to tell a true prophet from a false one-their prophecy will come true. Hananiah responds by taking the yoke off Jeremiah and breaking it (v10-11). The Lord speaks to Jeremiah in verses 12-14 concerning the yoke. Now the people will suffer even more which is symbolized by the iron yoke. Hananiah in his false prophecy was teaching rebellion against the Lord. Because of his false message Hananiah would die within two months (v15-17).
In chapter 29 Jeremiah is going to send a letter to those who have been taken captive to Babylon (v1-3). In verses 4-9 Jeremiah tells the people who have been carried away that they should live normal lives while they are in Babylon so they would enjoy peace. He also warns them to beware of false prophets. Jeremiah also reminds them that the exile will be 70 years in length, but that God would not forget them. This gave them hope for the future (v10-14). Picking back up the theme of false prophets, Jeremiah tells the captives that their false prophecies will be shown as lies (v15-19). In verses 20-23 Jeremiah warns them about Ahab and Zedekiah, who are both false prophets. Shemaiah sends a letter from Babylon to Zephaniah to silence Jeremiah in verses 24-28. Jeremiah sends a letter to the exiles telling them Shemaiah’s fate for being a false prophet-he would have no descendants, and he would not live to see God blessing His people (v29-32).
Jeremiah 30-33 is called “The Book of Consolation”. These prophecies were given during the final siege on Jerusalem (33:1) and tell the future of the nation of Israel. Israel will not perish but experience a permanent situation in the land, the Gentiles will come to know the Lord, a New Covenant is given, and a King from the line of David will rule over them. Many of these prophecies await a future day from our own time. In Jeremiah 30:1-3 Jeremiah is commanded to write these prophecies in a book. Verses 4-7 refers to the “time of Jacob’s trouble” which is the future “Day of the Lord”. It is future because the deliverance is both physical and spiritual which has not happened to this day. When this takes place Israel will not be enslaved by another nation ever again. They will be free when the Messiah (Jesus) reigns as king. They will enjoy peace, freedom, and they will be regathered to their land (v8-11). Although she will suffer judgment, God will heal their wounds and avenge them against their enemies (v12-17). In verses 18-22 the nation is shown to experience the blessings of God. In verses 23-24 Jeremiah does remind the people that it is through judgment God will redeem them.
Jeremiah 31:1-6 primarily deals with the restoration of the northern kingdom (Ephraim). The whole nation will eventually return from exile and none will be excluded (v7-14). Their coming will be with tears of joy and repentance. Even the nations will know that it is the Lord who is gathering His people back into their land. Israel will be redeemed, they will rejoice, and they will be restored. The picture of Rachel weeping for those who are in exile (v15) is overcome by the Lord’s promise in verses 16-17 that her children are coming back from exile. They have expressed sorrow for their sins, and they realize they need to repent in order to be restored (v18-22). Jeremiah once more foretells of the promising future of those returning from captivity which brings him joy (v23-26). The land will also be restored and renewed (v27-30). Those who believe they are paying for their ancestors sins are corrected because each person is responsible for their own sin. The New Covenant and its effects are the focus of the rest of the chapter. The main focus of verses 31-32 is that the previous covenant will be no more because it was broken by His people. The New Covenant will be one that cannot be broken. The people will enjoy the fullness of the Spirit (v33), fellowship with the Father (v34), forgiveness of sins (v34), faithfulness of God (v35—37), and a future glory (v38-40).
Last week in Jeremiah 27, Jeremiah used the symbol of the yoke to portray the coming domination of Babylon over the nations. God gave specific instructions to many nations through Jeremiah to submit to their authority. Here in Jeremiah 28 Hananiah, a false prophet, will speak a different message than what Jeremiah has spoken. In verses 1-4 Hananiah claimed that God was going to break the yoke of the Babylonians, bring back the captives and the vessels, and bring Jehoiachin back from exile. Jeremiah answers in verses 5-9 with an appeal to past prophets and directions for how to tell a true prophet from a false one-their prophecy will come true. Hananiah responds by taking the yoke off Jeremiah and breaking it (v10-11). The Lord speaks to Jeremiah in verses 12-14 concerning the yoke. Now the people will suffer even more which is symbolized by the iron yoke. Hananiah in his false prophecy was teaching rebellion against the Lord. Because of his false message Hananiah would die within two months (v15-17).
In chapter 29 Jeremiah is going to send a letter to those who have been taken captive to Babylon (v1-3). In verses 4-9 Jeremiah tells the people who have been carried away that they should live normal lives while they are in Babylon so they would enjoy peace. He also warns them to beware of false prophets. Jeremiah also reminds them that the exile will be 70 years in length, but that God would not forget them. This gave them hope for the future (v10-14). Picking back up the theme of false prophets, Jeremiah tells the captives that their false prophecies will be shown as lies (v15-19). In verses 20-23 Jeremiah warns them about Ahab and Zedekiah, who are both false prophets. Shemaiah sends a letter from Babylon to Zephaniah to silence Jeremiah in verses 24-28. Jeremiah sends a letter to the exiles telling them Shemaiah’s fate for being a false prophet-he would have no descendants, and he would not live to see God blessing His people (v29-32).
Jeremiah 30-33 is called “The Book of Consolation”. These prophecies were given during the final siege on Jerusalem (33:1) and tell the future of the nation of Israel. Israel will not perish but experience a permanent situation in the land, the Gentiles will come to know the Lord, a New Covenant is given, and a King from the line of David will rule over them. Many of these prophecies await a future day from our own time. In Jeremiah 30:1-3 Jeremiah is commanded to write these prophecies in a book. Verses 4-7 refers to the “time of Jacob’s trouble” which is the future “Day of the Lord”. It is future because the deliverance is both physical and spiritual which has not happened to this day. When this takes place Israel will not be enslaved by another nation ever again. They will be free when the Messiah (Jesus) reigns as king. They will enjoy peace, freedom, and they will be regathered to their land (v8-11). Although she will suffer judgment, God will heal their wounds and avenge them against their enemies (v12-17). In verses 18-22 the nation is shown to experience the blessings of God. In verses 23-24 Jeremiah does remind the people that it is through judgment God will redeem them.
Jeremiah 31:1-6 primarily deals with the restoration of the northern kingdom (Ephraim). The whole nation will eventually return from exile and none will be excluded (v7-14). Their coming will be with tears of joy and repentance. Even the nations will know that it is the Lord who is gathering His people back into their land. Israel will be redeemed, they will rejoice, and they will be restored. The picture of Rachel weeping for those who are in exile (v15) is overcome by the Lord’s promise in verses 16-17 that her children are coming back from exile. They have expressed sorrow for their sins, and they realize they need to repent in order to be restored (v18-22). Jeremiah once more foretells of the promising future of those returning from captivity which brings him joy (v23-26). The land will also be restored and renewed (v27-30). Those who believe they are paying for their ancestors sins are corrected because each person is responsible for their own sin. The New Covenant and its effects are the focus of the rest of the chapter. The main focus of verses 31-32 is that the previous covenant will be no more because it was broken by His people. The New Covenant will be one that cannot be broken. The people will enjoy the fullness of the Spirit (v33), fellowship with the Father (v34), forgiveness of sins (v34), faithfulness of God (v35—37), and a future glory (v38-40).
Saturday • 1 Timothy 4-6
In 1 Timothy 4:1-5 Paul again deals with false teachers. Deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons are spread by those who have become desensitized to the truth. They are “branded” by how they live and teach. In verses 6-11 Paul tells Timothy to remind the people of what he has been taught and of the things Paul instructs in this letter. The main theme of these verses is godliness. The word “nourish” means something necessary for growth. The only way to be like Christ is to grow in godliness (spiritual disciplines-prayer, bible study. worship, service, fellowship, evangelism). These things are profitable now, and for the life to come (eternity). Timothy is instructed in verses 12-16 to be an example in every part of his life to those he is leading, but especially as it pertains to the Word of God (v13).
1 Timothy 5:1-2 is about relationships with men and women in the church and how Timothy is to treat them. Verses 3-16 deal with widows and how their own family has first priority in taking care of them, then the church. Paul also instructs Timothy on the guidelines for widowhood, and who is to be accepted and those who are not. The whole section of verses 17-25 may refer to the selection of elders in the church. It probably includes those who are pastors, deacons, and any other leadership role in the church. These verses teach us that those who preach or teach are worthy of double honor if they rule well (v17-18). They also discuss accusations made against an elder (v19), those who are practicing sin (v20), favoritism (v21), making someone an elder before they are ready (v22), and staying pure (v22). Verses 24-25 concern judgment based upon someone’s fruit- whether it be sinful (v24) or good (v25).
1 Timothy 6:1-2 is about the relationship between a servant and their master. Paul again returns to false teachers in verses 3-5. If permitted to do so these false teachers would bring havoc into the church not only by their teaching, but by their behavior. The term “destitute” can mean someone who knew the truth but has rejected it. They are using their position to make money and responsible for what we would call today “telling people what they want to hear”. Verses 6-7 may function as a deterrent for Timothy to not follow the way of false teachers. The false teachers (or anyone) who desire to be rich (love of money) only fall into a trap laid by themselves. This pursuit will cause them to stray from the faith (v10), destroy their lives, and send them to hell (v9). In verses 11-16 Paul encourages Timothy to run from sin (v11), pursue godliness (v11), fight the good fight of faith (stand up for what is right, v12), and to remind himself of who (Jesus) he is faithful to in ministry (v13-15). Paul instructs Timothy to warn the rich not to trust in their riches, but to trust in the Lord and perform good works (v17-20). Paul closes the letter with one last warning to guard himself (and the Word) and to avoid false teachers and their teaching (v20-21).
In 1 Timothy 4:1-5 Paul again deals with false teachers. Deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons are spread by those who have become desensitized to the truth. They are “branded” by how they live and teach. In verses 6-11 Paul tells Timothy to remind the people of what he has been taught and of the things Paul instructs in this letter. The main theme of these verses is godliness. The word “nourish” means something necessary for growth. The only way to be like Christ is to grow in godliness (spiritual disciplines-prayer, bible study. worship, service, fellowship, evangelism). These things are profitable now, and for the life to come (eternity). Timothy is instructed in verses 12-16 to be an example in every part of his life to those he is leading, but especially as it pertains to the Word of God (v13).
1 Timothy 5:1-2 is about relationships with men and women in the church and how Timothy is to treat them. Verses 3-16 deal with widows and how their own family has first priority in taking care of them, then the church. Paul also instructs Timothy on the guidelines for widowhood, and who is to be accepted and those who are not. The whole section of verses 17-25 may refer to the selection of elders in the church. It probably includes those who are pastors, deacons, and any other leadership role in the church. These verses teach us that those who preach or teach are worthy of double honor if they rule well (v17-18). They also discuss accusations made against an elder (v19), those who are practicing sin (v20), favoritism (v21), making someone an elder before they are ready (v22), and staying pure (v22). Verses 24-25 concern judgment based upon someone’s fruit- whether it be sinful (v24) or good (v25).
1 Timothy 6:1-2 is about the relationship between a servant and their master. Paul again returns to false teachers in verses 3-5. If permitted to do so these false teachers would bring havoc into the church not only by their teaching, but by their behavior. The term “destitute” can mean someone who knew the truth but has rejected it. They are using their position to make money and responsible for what we would call today “telling people what they want to hear”. Verses 6-7 may function as a deterrent for Timothy to not follow the way of false teachers. The false teachers (or anyone) who desire to be rich (love of money) only fall into a trap laid by themselves. This pursuit will cause them to stray from the faith (v10), destroy their lives, and send them to hell (v9). In verses 11-16 Paul encourages Timothy to run from sin (v11), pursue godliness (v11), fight the good fight of faith (stand up for what is right, v12), and to remind himself of who (Jesus) he is faithful to in ministry (v13-15). Paul instructs Timothy to warn the rich not to trust in their riches, but to trust in the Lord and perform good works (v17-20). Paul closes the letter with one last warning to guard himself (and the Word) and to avoid false teachers and their teaching (v20-21).
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.
Carson D.A. PNTC: The Gospel According to John. Grand Rapids: InterVaristy Press, 1991.
Harrison, R.K. TOTC: Jeremiah and Lamentations. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1973.
Longman, Tremper. Layman’s Old Testament Bible Commentary. Uhrichsville: Barbour Publishing, 2010.
MacArthur, John Jr. 1 Timothy. . Chicago: Moody Press, 1995.
Mare, W. Harold. NT Background Commentary: Words, Phrases, and Situations.Rosshire: Mentor, 2004.
Wenham, Gordon J. TOTC: Numbers. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1981.
Willmington, H.L. The Outline Bible. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 1999.
Wiseman, Donald J. TOTC: 1 & 2 Kings. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1993.
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.
Carson D.A. PNTC: The Gospel According to John. Grand Rapids: InterVaristy Press, 1991.
Harrison, R.K. TOTC: Jeremiah and Lamentations. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1973.
Longman, Tremper. Layman’s Old Testament Bible Commentary. Uhrichsville: Barbour Publishing, 2010.
MacArthur, John Jr. 1 Timothy. . Chicago: Moody Press, 1995.
Mare, W. Harold. NT Background Commentary: Words, Phrases, and Situations.Rosshire: Mentor, 2004.
Wenham, Gordon J. TOTC: Numbers. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1981.
Willmington, H.L. The Outline Bible. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 1999.
Wiseman, Donald J. TOTC: 1 & 2 Kings. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1993.
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.