Chronological Bible Blog

1 John 4:7-5:21; 2 John 1:1-13; 3 John 1:1-15
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

First John:1 John 4 Verses 7 through 21 are incredible verses on LOVE! A fun Bible fact for you here – the word love appears 43 times in First John overall – and 32 times in the short section of 4:7 through 5:3.  We’re in the Christian love section here! 🙂  Certainly verses 9 & 10 here are well worth each of us reflecting upon: “God showed how much he loved us by sending his only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him.  This is real love. It is not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.”  Do you believe these verses to be true?  Do these verses maybe remind you of a similar verse John wrote in his Gospel?  John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”  It is awesome that we have these verses to reflect upon – along with Daniel chapter 12 verse 2 above.   See any ties between these verses from the Old & New Testaments regarding eternal life?

We finish the book of First John this today!  What a great book it has been for me this year.  I hope it has been a blessing for you as well.  Verses 3 & 4 in 1 John chapter 5 are powerful: “Loving God means keeping his commandments, and really, that isn’t difficult. For every child of God defeats this evil world by trusting Christ to give the victory.”  Do you love God by keeping his commandments?  Do you trust Jesus to give you the victory over evil in this world?  Does your trust in Jesus make keeping God’s commandments not difficult?

Verses 14 & 15 are good reflections on how we should pray – and that we should pray: “And we can be confident that he will listen to us whenever we ask him for anything in line with his will. And if we know he is listening when we make our requests, we can be sure that he will give us what we ask for.” Do you pray confidently, asking God for things that are in line with his will?  Do you know that God is listening to your prayers?  Are you sure that he will give you what you ask for, if it is in line with his will?

And verse 21 is a powerful end to this book of 1 John: “Dear children, keep away from anything that might take God’s place in your hearts.”  Is there anything in your life that might take the place of God in your heart?  Will you turn this idol over to God?  Will you keep away from this idol?  Will you allow God to take the primary place in your heart and your mind?

Second John: Today we read through the very short letter of Second John!  This letter, like First John, was written by one of Jesus’ 12 disciples, John son of Zebedee – who also wrote the Gospel of John and the book of Revelation.  This letter was essentially written to continue to dispel Gnosticism, which was a twisting of Christianity – it basically meant salvation through knowledge (gnosis is Greek for knowledge).  Gnostic teachers were traveling throughout the land at the time this letter was written, and this letter warns people to not encourage this false teaching in any way.  Below is an image made of wood from the 17th century of the Apostle John and scenes from his life:

~ Second John ~
Author: John the apostle
Place: Uncertain, probably Ephesus
Date: A.D. 85-95
Content: This short letter was written either to a Christian woman whom John knew or to a church personified as a woman. In any case, it was written to encourage true Christian love and to warn against the deceivers who were coming into the world. John charges the believers not to participate in their evil, but to stand for the truth no matter what that cost.
Theme: The need for Christians to be alert and diligent when it comes to false doctrine is the theme of this letter. We must be aware that false doctrine exists and we must be ready to deal with it, if confronted. All the while, however, we must live out the love of God in our lives. (Above commentary is from Tyndale Publishers “The One Year Bible Companion” p. 34) A great overview of Second John by Daniel Wallace is at bible.org at this link.

Verses 5 & 6 certainly stand out in this short letter: “And now I want to urge you, dear lady, that we should love one another. This is not a new commandment, but one we had from the beginning. Love means doing what God has commanded us, and he has commanded us to love one another, just as you heard from the beginning.” Are you loving others frequently & consistently in your life?  Do you demonstrate love for others consistently?  Do you love God’s commands?  Do you love others as Jesus loved you?

Third John: Today we start and finish the book of Third John!  Yes, it is quite a lengthy letter…  🙂  This letter, like the 2 before it were written by the disciple John in about 85 to 95 A.D.  The purpose of this letter is actually somewhat the opposite of the purpose of Second John.  In Second John – see yesterday’s post below – we learned that John was warning against providing hospitality to traveling false teachers.  In Third John, John is asking Gaius to show hospitality to traveling teachers – but teachers that are teaching the truth.  The unfortunate aspect of today’s letter is that there is a bit of a dictator leading the local church named Diotrephes who is not welcoming in traveling teachers who teach the truth – the Gospel.  So, I think we can learn from Second John & Third John that hospitality is obviously a very good thing – though, we should exercise caution with hospitality when there is danger of propagating a false teaching.

~ Third John ~
Author: John the apostle
Place: Uncertain, probably Ephesus
Date: A.D. 85-95
Content: This short letter is a personal note from John the apostle to his friend Gauis, encouraging him to support the traveling evangelists who are preaching the truth. He warns Gauis against such men as Diotrephes who refuse to help in spreading the gospel and commends others, such as Demetrius, for helping.
Theme: Christians are to support one another in the work of Christ. Not to do so is the work of Satan, who seeks to destroy the believers. John stresses that all believers are bound together as Christians and should work for the common good of all. (Above commentary is from Tyndale Publishers “The One Year Bible Companion” p. 34) A great overview of Third John by Daniel Wallace is at this link.  Below is a marble statue of John by the artist Donatello from the year 1410 –

Verse 11 stands out in this letter, following John’s writing about Diotrephes behavior – “Dear friend, don’t let this bad example influence you. Follow only what is good. Remember that those who do good prove that they are God’s children, and those who do evil prove that they do not know God.”   Do we have examples of good and bad leaders in our life?  Do we follow only the example of the good?  Do you believe following the example of people doing good is proof that we are children of God?

YouTube – Today’s readings in First John remind me of the Third Day song “You Are Mine:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7o-JPkq5rvE

Are you His?  Click here and hear Jesus say “You Are Mine!”

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: “Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.” 1 John 4:20-21 (NIV)

Prayer Point: Pray that you love God. Pray that you do not hate your brother or sister. Pray that you love your brother and sister.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

1 John 1:1-4:6
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

We start First John today!  First John was written by one of Jesus’ 12 disciples, John son of Zebedee – who also wrote the Gospel of John and the book of Revelation.  First John was written between 85 and 95 A.D. when John was in Ephesus (in modern day Turkey) late in his life.  The purpose of this letter was in large part to dispel Gnosticism, which was a twisting of Christianity – it basically meant salvation through knowledge (gnosis is Greek for knowledge).

   

~ First John ~
Author: John the apostle
Place: Uncertain, probably Ephesus
Date:  A.D. 85-95
Content:  This very personal letter was written by the apostle John in his old age to believers who were very dear to him.  He addresses them as his little children and gives them practical instructions for Christian living.  He begins by stressing Jesus’ incarnation and builds his commands upon the truth that those who know Jesus know the Father as well.  Those who do not know Jesus do not know the Father, nor do they know the love of the Father.  Christians, however, have experienced the love of God in their lives, for God is love, and have no need to fear either in this life or in the life to come.
Theme:  John stresses the basic truths of the Christian faith in this letter in order to comfort and encourage his children in the faith.  The themes of love, forgiveness, fellowship, victory over sin, assurance, purity, and eternal life are woven together in a marvelous document that shines with the light of God in the darkness of the world.  (Above commentary is from Tyndale Publishers “The One Year Bible Companion” p. 33) A great overview of First John by Daniel Wallace is at this link.

First John starts out strong right out of the gates in verse 1 and is very similar to the beginning of the Gospel of John:  “The one who existed from the beginning is the one we have heard and seen. We saw him with our own eyes and touched him with our own hands. He is Jesus Christ, the Word of life.”   Do you believe that Jesus Christ has existed from the very beginning of time with God the Father?  Do you believe that Jesus is the Word of life?

And verse 5 is a message to us from Jesus via John: “This is the message he has given us to announce to you: God is light and there is no darkness in him at all.”  I love this.  A month or so ago in this blog I reflected on God being a God of no shadows.  All light.  I love that thought.  Do you believe God is light?  And that there is no darkness, no shadows, in Him at all?

And in verses 8 & 9 we read:  “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”  Do you claim to be without sin?  Do you confess your sins regularly and ask for forgiveness from God?  Do you believe that God is faithful and just and will forgive you?  And not just forgive you but purify you from your confessed sins?  And heal you from your confessed sins?  Let us not deceive ourselves any longer.  Let us allow the Truth to fully live in our hearts.  Let us confess our sins, be forgiven, and be purified from all unrighteousness.  Are you with me on this?

First John chapter 2 is full of tons of wisdom today!  Verses 5 & 6 are so strong: “But those who obey God’s word really do love him. That is the way to know whether or not we live in him. Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Christ did.”   Do we realize that obeying God’s Word, the Bible, demonstrates our love for God?  Do we live our lives as Jesus did?  Do we really love God?  Do we obey God’s Word?

Verse 9 certainly gives us much to consider in our lives: “If anyone says, “I am living in the light,” but hates a Christian brother or sister, that person is still living in darkness.”  Are you living in the light?

Verses 15, 16 & 17 are worth looking at.  Bible commentaries suggest that the “world” in these verses is not the created world or people – but the world of sin, which is the dominion of Satan. “Stop loving this evil world and all that it offers you, for when you love the world, you show that you do not have the love of the Father in you. For the world offers only the lust for physical pleasure, the lust for everything we see, and pride in our possessions. These are not from the Father. They are from this evil world. And this world is fading away, along with everything it craves. But if you do the will of God, you will live forever.”  Are we doing the will of God in our lives?  Do you want to live with God forever?  Do you continually pray to God to deliver you from lust & pride?

First John 2 verse 27 stood out to me today: “But you have received the Holy Spirit, and he lives within you, so you don’t need anyone to teach you what is true. For the Spirit teaches you all things, and what he teaches is true–it is not a lie. So continue in what he has taught you, and continue to live in Christ.” After we come to believe in Christ as Savior of the World – through his life, death on the cross for our sins, and resurrection – we are then blessed with the amazing gift of the Holy Spirit.  And indeed the Holy Spirit will come to live within us.  Do you believe that the Holy Spirit within you can teach you all things?  Teach you what is true?  Will you continue in what the Holy Spirit has taught you?  Will you live in Christ?

First John 3 verse 1 is encouraging: “See how very much our heavenly Father loves us, for he allows us to be called his children, and we really are!”  Do you know that our heavenly Father loves you?  Do you know that you are a child of God?

First John chapter 3 verse 9 is powerful in today’s readings! “Those who have been born into God’s family do not sin, because God’s life is in them. So they can’t keep on sinning, because they have been born of God.”  Keep in mind that this does not mean that as a Christian you won’t stop sinning completely and be perfect.  However, you will be in the process of being sanctified and your life will be shown as someone who is compelled to do what is right, because God is in you, versus having a life that shows you are compelled to sin, if you were without God.  But, this verse is still great for believers to reflect upon – we do not want to sin anymore and we’re in the process of sinning less and less through sanctification – until the day we are in heaven with Christ when indeed we will never sin again.  Do you realize this is your eternal purpose?

Today in First John chapter 3 verse 16 we read: “We know what real love is because Christ gave up his life for us. And so we also ought to give up our lives for our Christian brothers and sisters.”  This is a powerful verse for us to reflect on. Jesus died on the cross for our sins.  He gave up his life so that we may have eternal life with the Father through faith in him.  Jesus’ giving up his life for you and me is real love.  How might we be able to show real love toward others?  How might we be able to give up our lives for others?  Not necessarily are we being called to death on a cross – but how about a figurative death in our lives on how we invest our time, energy, & passions?  Is it possible that our indulgence in luxury goods and how we waste precious time could cost the very lives of someone else in need somewhere in the world?  Can we give up our “life”, our luxury goods, and our wasting of time so that we can show real love for others?  Will we? Will we follow Jesus in the giving up of our own life for the sake of others?

First John chapter 4 verse 1 starts the chapter off with quite a warning today: “Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world.”  The interesting thing about this verse for me today is the implication to “see if the spirit they have comes from God.”  Meaning, that the spirit some have come from the opposite of God – the devil.  A bit scary to think about this and realize this.  But, it’s true.  There is good and evil in the world, and good and evil spirits influencing people.  It’s better if we realize this.  It is a fallen world.  Do you believe this verse to be true?  Do you believe there is both good – and evil – in the world?  Do you believe there are many false prophets in the world?

Worship Video: As it is Christmas Eve, here is “Oh Holy Night” with Josh Groban singing:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zQWXfHzOKUU

How are you celebrating on this Holy Night?  Click here to celebrate forevermore!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: “This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth.” 1 John 1:5-6 (NIV)

Prayer Point: Pray that you are walking in the Light of God today and forevermore. Pray that you never return to walking in the darkness. Pray that you are living out the truth by walking in the Light!

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

1 Peter 5:12-14; 2 Peter 1:1-3:18
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

Today we start the book of Second Peter!  This is another great letter from Peter to the early Christian church written in approximately 65 to 68 A.D., just before Peter was martyred during the reign of the Roman emperor Nero.  1 Peter was more of a letter of encouragement to early Christians who were facing suffering, whereas 2 Peter is written to dispel false teachings within early Christianity.  Below is a fresco by Michelangelo of Peter being crucified, in the Sistine Chapel in Rome:

~ Second Peter ~
Author: Peter the apostle
Place: Uncertain, perhaps Rome
Date: A.D. 67
Content: This letter was written by Peter shortly before his death and deals with the problems that the church would face after his departure. He encourages the believers to continue in their spiritual growth, realizing the truth of the Christian gospel. It does not consist of fable but fact. He warns them of false teachers who would destroy the truth by exalting their own ideas over those of the church. Finally, he points out that Christ will return some day to destroy the old order of this world; as a result, we ought not to become too attached to it.
Theme: Second Peter is a call to steadfastness in the midst of numerous pressures to drift from the truth. The world is seeking to undo the work of God, but we must resist all such pressure by living godly lives, believing the truth, enduring persecution, trusting God, and looking for Christ’s return. (Above commentary is from Tyndale Publishers “The One Year Bible Companion” p. 33) A great overview of Second Peter and the other “Non-Pauline Epistles” by J. Hampton Keathley is at this link. (Scroll down just below his commentary on First Peter to get to his commentary on Second Peter.)  Below is a painting of Peter by William Holman Hunt –

2 Peter 1 verse 3 brings up a couple of good questions we should ask ourselves – “As we know Jesus better, his divine power gives us everything we need for living a godly life.”  Do you want to know Jesus better?  How will you do this?  (hint – reading the Bible daily is one great way…)  How else?  Do you want to live a godly life?  What does a godly life look like? Do you believe Jesus’ divine power gives you everything you need to live a godly life?

Verse 19 makes a One Year Bible Blogger happy 🙂 – “Because of that, we have even greater confidence in the message proclaimed by the prophets. Pay close attention to what they wrote, for their words are like a light shining in a dark place–until the day Christ appears and his brilliant light shines in your hearts.”  I think one of the beautiful things about the One Year Bible is going through both the Old Testament and New Testament each day.  We learn from the prophets and can play close attention to what they wrote – for as Peter says, their words are like a light shining in the dark!  Below is a stained glass image of the prophet Elijah (Elias is Greek for Elijah) –

Second Peter chapter 2 is a strong one that looks at the danger of false teachers – both in the Old Testament times through false prophets and also in the early church during the 1st century.  I have to confess that as I read this chapter I think of some current books and movies and teachers in our modern world that I am afraid apply to the warnings of this chapter.  Do you believe that there are false teachers also in our world today?  Teachers that distort the Gospel message?  Teachers that steer people away from Truth and into Darkness?  Teachers that are in it for the money?

Verses 2 & 3 warn us that: “Many will follow their evil teaching and shameful immorality. And because of them, Christ and his true way will be slandered. In their greed they will make up clever lies to get hold of your money.”  Commentaries suggest that at the time Peter wrote this letter the shameful immorality was primarily sexual sin.  The false teachers were allowing / encouraging people to basically do what they want sexually.  They taught that there is no theological or spiritual or personal damage that will come with sexual do-whatever-you-wantness…  (okay, that’s not in the Bible – I made that up).  Do we see this type of teaching today?  Is this type of teaching true?  Is it false?  Is it shameful?  Do you believe that sex can be damaging to you outside of the proper context of marriage?  Verse 19 warns again: “They promise freedom, but they themselves are slaves to sin and corruption. For you are a slave to whatever controls you.”  What controls you?  Is it purely love for God and his ways, which is great.  Or is it something else…?  Something that is dangerous and leads down a slippery slope… ?  Will you instead pursue God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit and the True Freedom that only They can give you?  Please please be watchful of wolves in sheep’s clothing.  The Enemy comes in sheep’s clothing to lie, steal, and kill.  The lies may be attractive on the surface, but the core of the lie is deadly to you.  Please cling to Jesus and God’s Word, the Holy Bible, above all else.

Today we finish the letter of Second Peter!  Again, I have been so blessed reading through this letter this year.  It’s always a good thing to read a letter from a guy that Jesus said this about in Matthew 16:18 – “And I tell you that you are Peter [which means rock], and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades [or hell] will not overcome it.”  Do you believe that the gates of hell will not overcome the church of Jesus Christ?  (church – that’s us.  You and me and him and her. The body of Christ.  Not the buildings…)

Verse 3 is a reminder to us all: “First, I want to remind you that in the last days there will be scoffers who will laugh at the truth and do every evil thing they desire.”  Keep in mind that we live in the last days – everything post-Jesus’ resurrection and ascension into heaven is last days.  So, in the time of Peter and the early church there were scoffers who laughed at the truth and did every evil thing they desire.  Is this still happening today?  (I couldn’t resist this Matrix picture below of a scoffer… 🙂

Verse 9 is helpful in knowing why Jesus has not yet returned: “The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise to return, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to perish, so he is giving more time for everyone to repent.”  He is giving more time for everyone to repent!  Will we repent? 

Verses 15 & 16 are very interesting.  They are basically Peter giving praise to Paul’s writing: “This is just as our beloved brother Paul wrote to you with the wisdom God gave him– Some of his comments are hard to understand, and those who are ignorant and unstable have twisted his letters around to mean something quite different from what he meant, just as they do the other parts of Scripture.”  Have you ever found Paul’s writing hard to understand?  I know many of my friend’s have.  And I have too on occasion.  But, there is so much going on in Paul’s letters that need to be looked at contextually and in depth.  Overall, Paul’s letter’s have been such a blessing to me personally, and I look forward to reading them and studying them again next year with you!  🙂 Below is “The Apostle Paul” by Rembrandt, circa 1657:

Peter closes the letter today with the beautiful verse 18: “But grow in the special favor and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be all glory and honor, both now and forevermore. Amen.”   I don’t know that I can add any more to this than simply another “Amen.” 

Worship Video: As it is almost Christmas, here is Casting Crown’s “I Heard Bells on Christmas Day” live:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7670CXvPX0

Do you know the peace of God’s Silent Night?  Click here for heavenly peace!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves.” 2 Peter 2:1 (NIV)

Prayer Point: Pray that you are not deceived by a false teacher. Pray that you will never fall prey to destructive heresies. Pray that you will never deny the Lord.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

1 Peter 2:4-5:11
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

1 Peter 2 verse 5 is beautiful imagery: “And now God is building you, as living stones, into his spiritual temple. What’s more, you are God’s holy priests, who offer the spiritual sacrifices that please him because of Jesus Christ.”   Do you believe that you are a living stone in God’s spiritual temple?  Do you believe you are a holy priest of God?  If realizing that you are a holy priest of God is something new for you, how might this change how you live your life?

1 Peter 2 verse 11 is powerful – “So I warn you to keep away from evil desires because they fight against your very souls.”  Do you believe evil desires fight against your soul?  If so, will you keep away from evil desires?  Will you not entertain those desires anymore?

Verse 24 today about Jesus is so strong – “He personally carried away our sins in his own body on the cross so we can be dead to sin and live for what is right. You have been healed by his wounds!”  Are you dead to sin?  Are you living for what is right?  Do you believe you have been healed by Jesus’ wounds?  Will you accept this healing?  Will you kneel down at the foot of the cross and be healed?

1 Peter 3 verse 13 is definitely something for each of us to consider – “Now, who will want to harm you if you are eager to do good?”  I think this is very true.  If you are “eager” to do good, who will want to harm you?  Well, true, maybe someone who becomes jealous or who is just plain having a bad day… but generally speaking, I think we can avoid a lot of troubles in our life if we stay focused – no, eager – to do good.  All the time.  Are you eager to do good?

Suffering.  Not something we like to think about – much less experience…  1 Peter 4 verses 1 & 2 are well worth letting sink in a bit – “So then, since Christ suffered physical pain, you must arm yourselves with the same attitude he had, and be ready to suffer, too. For if you are willing to suffer for Christ, you have decided to stop sinning. And you won’t spend the rest of your life chasing after evil desires, but you will be anxious to do the will of God.”  Do you believe these verses to be true?  Are you ready to suffer for Christ?  Have you decided to stop sinning?  Are you anxious to do the will of God and abandon chasing evil desires?  Do you believe this is the Way?

In First Peter chapter 5 verse 8 today we receive a stern warning we all must heed: “Be careful! Watch out for attacks from the Devil, your great enemy. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for some victim to devour. Take a firm stand against him, and be strong in your faith.”  Do you believe the Devil prowls around like a roaring lion?  Will you take a firm stand against him?  How will you do this?  Memorizing scripture on a regular basis I believe is one very effective tool in this battle.  As is reading and studying the Bible each and every day.  I actually was sitting in the waiting room of a doctor’s office recently and I picked up a Christian magazine that had an article on how to fight temptation.  This article basically said to “know thyself” – know what and where your weaknesses / temptations are.  Then, after taking this inventory, memorize a scripture verse or two that you can easily bring to mind when you find yourself in one of those times of weakness / temptation.  And to cling to that scripture verse for all its worth.  I haven’t personally tried this yet, but I think I will.  I do think that we can cling to scripture like a life preserver in our moments of weakness / temptation.  Let us not ever forget that on this side of heaven the devil is out there prowling…

Worship Video: Today’s readings in First Peter remind me of Phil Wickham’s song “The Day True Love Died:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SL7Uo__ss7g

Do you know about the day True Love died??  Click here and learn!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: “Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.” 1 Peter 2:16-17 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you are living as a free person, but not as a cover-up for evil. Pray that you are a slave of God’s. Pray that you show proper respect to others, love fellow believers, and honor your leaders.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Hebrews 13:1-25; 1 Peter 1:1-2:3
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

Hebrews: We wrap up the book of Hebrews today!  Hebrews chapter 13 verse 2 has always stood out to me – “Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it!”   Powerful eh?  When we show hospitality to strangers, we may be entertaining angels!  Something to definitely keep in mind…  Below is an engraving from the 16th century by Georg Pencz of Abraham entertaining angels from Genesis:

Verse 7 I think is a great reminder for each of us to rejoice in and show some appreciation for those that helped bring us to faith and to study the Bible – “Remember your leaders who first taught you the word of God. Think of all the good that has come from their lives, and trust the Lord as they do.”  Is there someone right now that this verse makes you think of?  Can you send them a card or a quick email of encouragement to thank them for the impact they have had on your spiritual life?

Verse 8 is infamous and powerful and please memorize this one: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” This is an easy verse to memorize, no?  Say it with me.   Hebrews 13:8 – “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”   Yep, I think you got it.  🙂

First Peter: Today we begin the Apostle Peter’s first epistle!  Below is a Russian Orthodox icon of Peter –

~ First Peter ~
Author: Peter the apostle
Place: Uncertain, perhaps Rome
Date:  A.D. 63 or 64
Content:  The apostle Peter wrote this letter near the end of his life to comfort and encourage the Jewish Christians who were living in Asia Minor.  He points out that suffering is part of the Christian life and that God has an imperishable reward reserved for those who trust him.  In case any were thinking of returning to Judaism to escape from persecution, Peter points out that the church is now the chosen nation and the priesthood of God.  Hence any thoughts of returning to Judaism were futile.  Peter then presents the example of Christ who suffered and admonished the believers to be prepared for the same experience.
Theme:  The theme of First Peter is triumph through suffering.  Early Christians lived difficult lives, often paying for their faith with their lives, but this letter shows us that it is worth it, no matter what the price.  God knows all that is occurring and in his eternal plan will work everything out for the best.  (Above commentary is from Tyndale Publishers “The One Year Bible Companion” p. 32)  A great overview of First Peter and the other “Non-Pauline Epistles” by J. Hampton Keathley is at this link. Scroll down just below his commentary on Hebrews & James to get to his commentary on First Peter.  Below is an oil painting of Peter by the artist El Greco (known as “The Greek”, but the artist’s real name was Domenikos Theotokopoulos) from the early 17th century –

1 Peter 1:4-6 are powerful verses: “For God has reserved a priceless inheritance for his children. It is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. And God, in his mighty power, will protect you until you receive this salvation, because you are trusting him. It will be revealed on the last day for all to see. So be truly glad! There is wonderful joy ahead, even though it is necessary for you to endure many trials for a while.”  These verses tie in nicely with the Ezekiel 44:28 comments above, no?  🙂  Are we truly glad about this priceless inheritance?  Do we believe there is a priceless inheritance for us in heaven?  Do we understand that we may have to endure many trials in this life before receiving this inheritance?  Will you endure the many trials that will come your way, knowing that God’s inheritance is awaiting you through His grace and your faith in Christ?

Verse 8 is a beautiful thought about Jesus and our relationship with him (and ties in nicely with this picture above) – “You love him even though you have never seen him.” Even though you have never seen Jesus, do you love Him?

Today in First Peter chapter 1 verse 15 we read: “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.””  Do you believe that God is holy?  Do you believe that you are called to be holy?  Is this a goal in your life – to be holy?  What are some ways you can move forward on this goal of being holy?  Have you moved forward in holiness this year?  Will you continue to move forward in holiness next year?  What are some specific areas of your life that God is calling you to holiness in during this coming year?

1 Peter 2 verse 2 is awesome! “You must crave pure spiritual milk so that you can grow into the fullness of your salvation. Cry out for this nourishment as a baby cries for milk, now that you have had a taste of the Lord’s kindness.”  Do you crave pure spiritual milk?  What is pure spiritual milk?  Could it be the Word of God, the Bible?  Do you believe the Bible can help you grow into the fullness of your salvation?  Do you cry out for this nourishment?  Do you drink deeply of this nourishment?  Daily?

Worship Video: Today’s readings in First Peter remind me of the Sanctus Real song “Whatever You’re Doing:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5vaHsFMEhf8

What is God doing inside of you?  Click here to find out!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: “Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” 1 Peter 1:8-9 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that even though you have not seen Jesus, you love Him. Pray that you are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, through your saving faith and belief in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Hebrews 11:1-12:29
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~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

Today we read Hebrews Chapter 11, which is a great reflection of the faith of our spiritual ancestors in the Old Testament! Some call this chapter the “Hall of Faith” – as in the Hall of Fame.  🙂  I would encourage you to read this chapter entirely today – and again tomorrow in its entirety. Chapter 11 opens with this critically important verse for us to memorize and take to heart: “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” Are you sure of what you hope for? Are you certain of what you do not see? As you read through this chapter, do you see the value in the faith of our spiritual ancestors? In what area of your life might God be calling you to step forward in faith?

Enoch in verse 5 is an intriguing example of faith coming from Genesis chapter 5’s genealogy from Adam to Noah (see Genesis 5:24 at this link): “It was by faith that Enoch was taken up to heaven without dying—”he disappeared, because God took him.” For before he was taken up, he was known as a person who pleased God.”  Below is a painting of Enoch being taken up to heaven by the Italian painter Sebastiano Ricci (1659-1734):

Verses 13 through 16 I think are four of the most amazing verses we’ve read in Hebrews and I think each of us should really meditate on what these verses might mean in our lives today:  “All these people died still believing what God had promised them. They did not receive what was promised, but they saw it all from a distance and welcomed it. They agreed that they were foreigners and nomads here on earth. Obviously people who say such things are looking forward to a country they can call their own. If they had longed for the country they came from, they could have gone back.  But they were looking for a better place, a heavenly homeland. That is why God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.”  What do you think of these verses?  If these heroes of our faith died still believing what God promised them – even though they did not receive what was promised here on earth – do you think that perhaps you and I should always be faithful in our lives to God no matter what we may think we’re not “receiving” here on earth?  If we’re not receiving perfect health.  If we’re not receiving a perfect job.  If we’re not receiving a perfect family.  If we’re not receiving a perfect mental state.  If not, if not, if not….  will we still believe what God promised us?  Will we still believe that God is not ashamed to be called our God?  Will we still believe that God has prepared a heavenly city for us?  Let us believe!

Hebrews 11 verses 25 & 26 today tell us so much about the character and faith of Moses! “He chose to share the oppression of God’s people instead of enjoying the fleeting pleasures of sin. He thought it was better to suffer for the sake of the Messiah than to own the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking ahead to the great reward that God would give him.”  Do these verses speak to us today as well?  Will we share in the oppression of God’s people?  Or do we enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin?  Do we suffer for the sake of Jesus?  Or would we prefer to chill out and hang out with our luxuries in life?  Do we look ahead to the great reward that God promises?  Will we pursue the character and faith of Moses in our own lives today?

Hebrews chapter 11 verses today finish out this chapter on “faith” strongly!  Please take a minute to re-read this entire chapter 11 if you can.  It is an amazing chapter of our spiritual ancestor’s faith.  How does reading about our spiritual ancestor’s faith speak into your life today?  Are their areas of your life where you can better live with faith?   Can you turn over your fears and anxieties to God, in faith?  Knowing, in faith, God will ultimately provide and thus there is nothing to fear or worry about today?

Hebrews 11 verse 38 stands out to me today: “They were too good for this world.”  I think it is helpful to remember that this current world is not our ultimate eternal home.  It is temporary.  We’re called to be saints and love others in this world.  But, we should not become too attached to it or what it offers.  God has a better home for us in mind at the end of our race – our journey through this life.   This verse says that our spiritual ancestors were too good for this world – and hence, many of them suffered.  But they suffered knowing it was temporary.  Impermanent.  I don’t think that this verse should make us conceited or arrogant in any way – being “too good” for this world – but hopefully it helps us realize that this life is not necessarily going to be easy in this world if we are truly living in faith….   In fact, sometimes I wonder that if our life is really easy if we are really living our faith?  I just hope we never get complacent and chill out and relax because “we are so saved”….  There is a dying world out there that needs us!  How are you truly living your life in faith these days?

Hebrews chapter 12 verse 1 is phenomenal to think about – “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily hinders our progress.”   I think sometimes we think that we are doing this Christian walk / faith thing alone.  We think we are in this alone – just us & God.  I think this verse helps remind us that there is a huge crowd of witnesses that are in this with us.  I like to think of this cloud of witnesses cheering us on in our walk!  They are rooting for us!  So – in light of knowing we have these saints rooting for us, doesn’t it make sense that we should strip away sin that hinders our walk?  Is there sin your life that is hindering your walk?  Will you allow Jesus to strip it away so that the cloud of witnesses can continue to cheer you on toward the finish line?  Below is an image of some of the “crowd of witnesses” to our life of faith – Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Samson, and David:

How do we run this race toward the finish line well?  I think verse 2 tells us how – “We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from start to finish.”   Are your eyes on Jesus?  Constantly?   Does your faith depend solely on Jesus?   Is your faith as fresh today as when you first came to faith in Jesus? 

Verse 3 is a powerful reflection of Jesus’ passion…. “Think about all he endured when sinful people did such terrible things to him, so that you don’t become weary and give up.”  Think about what Jesus endured at the hands of the Roman guards.  Think about Jesus’ resolve.  He was running the race toward the finish line.  Can reflecting on Jesus’ passion help us resist becoming weary and giving up?  How often do you reflect on Jesus’ passion?

Verses 5 & 6 quote Proverbs 3:11-12 and the following verses then go into explaining this wisdom of this Proverb – “My child, don’t ignore it when the Lord disciplines you, and don’t be discouraged when he corrects you. For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes those he accepts as his children.” Do you believe this proverb to be true?  Is the Lord perhaps disciplining you in some way today?  Are you accepting or ignoring the discipline?  Do you believe that the Lord disciplines those he loves?  And that this “divine discipline” is ultimately good for you and everyone you come in contact with in your life?

Hebrews chapter 12 verse 14 starts out strong with: “Try to live in peace with everyone, and seek to live a clean and holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord.”  I love this!  If we seek to live in peace with everyone and live a clean and holy life people around us will see the Lord.  This is very powerful to think about…  You’ve probably heard this said before: “You may be the only Bible anyone ever reads”.  Or “you may be the only Jesus anyone ever meets.”  (not you being Jesus of course, but Christ within you shining through you!)  Are you living in peace with everyone?  Are you seeking to live a clean and holy life?  Are others seeing the Lord in you?  Are others reading the Bible through you?

Verse 28 stands out to me today: “Since we are receiving a Kingdom that cannot be destroyed, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping him with holy fear and awe.” This is an interesting phrasing – worship God with holy fear and awe.  It reminds me a lot of a lyric in Chris Tomlin’s single, “Indescribable.”  He sings – “humbly we fall to our knees and say, “you are amazing God!””  That one word “humbly” jumped out at me in this song.  It seems to me that there should be some reverence, holy fear, awe, and humility as we worship God?  And maybe not just take worship and our relationship for God lightly?  But be thankful for the opportunity to worship God?  Just some questions…  Because then verse 29 tells us “For our God is a consuming fire.”  Which reminds me of a great Third Day song….  🙂

Worship Video:  Hebrews 12:29 of course reminded me of the fantastic Third Day song “Consuming Fire:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fK9_7ldUvs

Do you know our God who is a Consuming Fire? Click here for His flame to burn down deep in your soul!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)

Prayer Point: Pray that you are living by faith. Pray that you are sure of what you hope for. Pray that you are certain of what you do not see. Pray that you are living by faith in Christ alone!

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Hebrews 8:1-10:39
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

Hebrews chapter 8 is awesome in that it dives into some verses we read recently in the book of Jeremiah about the new covenant!  Verse 3 stands out: “And since every high priest is required to offer gifts and sacrifices, our High Priest must make an offering, too.”  What was the offering Christ made for our sins? Verse 13 stands out too: “When God speaks of a new covenant, it means he has made the first one obsolete. It is now out of date and ready to be put aside.”  Something I learned recently – the old / first covenant referred to in this chapter is the “Sinaitic” covenant and not the Abrahamic covenant – the difference being not the promise to Abraham that his descendants will outnumber the stars in the sky and God will be our God and we his people (the Abrahamic covenant) – but the “Sinaitic” covenant are the laws given to Moses on Mt. Sinai and in the desert for how the Israelites were to live – including how priests would make sacrifices for sin.   The Abrahamic covenant still stands today – the Sinaitic covenant is now out of date and ready to be put aside because it was completed by the new covenant of Jesus Christ.  Our High Priest who offered His life for our lives.

Hebrews chapter 9 is a fairly brief reading today on the Old Covenant rules for approaching God.  We also read today about the ark of the covenant. Below are a couple of good images of the tabernacle, which you’ll recall details about from our readings in Exodus chapters 26 & 27 earlier this year:

 

One thing that stands out in my mind when reading this chapter today is that just after Jesus dies on the cross there is an earthquake, which shakes the Temple in Jerusalem where the Most Holy Place was located at the time of Jesus’ death.  The curtain separating the Most Holy Place from the rest of the Temple is torn in two.  This is incredible imagery that shows that no longer is the Most Holy Place and an earthly high priest the only way to God.  Jesus has torn that veil in two and Jesus is our new and eternal High Priest ushering in the New Covenant!

Hebrews chapter 9 verses 27 & 28 today teaches us: “And just as it is destined that each person dies only once and after that comes judgment, so also Christ died only once as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people.”  This stands in stark contrast to the old covenant where the High Priest had to atone for the people’s sins over and over and over again.  With faith in Jesus, our sins are forgiven all at once – for eternity – and Christ does not need to forgive us of our sins over and over and over again.  Faith in Christ is the one and only thing that matters.  Do you believe this?

Hebrews chapter 10 is powerful today!  I did come across a great learning, which I hadn’t really picked up before.  In verse 9 we read this about Jesus: “He cancels the first covenant in order to establish the second.”  At first glance you might think, wow, the old / first covenant is over.  Things like the Ten Commandments don’t matter anymore.  Well, not so fast!  Tyndale’s One Year Bible companion tells us that this verse refers to the doing away (canceling) of the system of sacrifices contained in the ceremonial law.  However, this does not mean canceling / eliminating God’s moral law (the Ten Commandments).  Only through faith in Christ we can fulfill the moral law, as Jesus lives in us.  Good to know, eh?  I’d never really picked up this distinction before of Jesus canceling the ceremonial law but not the moral law.  Do you see this distinction?  As I’ve done some more reading on this, I realize this is a bit of a contentious point for many Christians.  Check out this great overview of the Mosaic Law in light of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection – including a disagreement on my point above about the moral law – at bible.org at this link.

Hebrews chapter 10 today is amazing!  In verse 22 we read: “Let us go right into the presence of God, with true hearts fully trusting him. For our evil consciences have been sprinkled with Christ’s blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water.”  Great stuff!  The last few words of this verse remind me of the blessing of Baptism – as an outward sign of our inner transformation and faith in Christ. Verse 24 is just pure joy & goodness: “Think of ways to encourage one another to outbursts of love and good deeds.” Outbursts of love & good deeds indeed!  Who are you encouraging these days to outbursts of love and good deeds?  Can you think of some ways to do this?  And verse 25 reminds me of the importance of finding a church community to do life with together: “And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of his coming back again is drawing near.”  Do you meet together with others in a local church?  Have you found a small group, community group, or prayer group that you can spend some quality time with outside of regular church services?  A group where you can encourage, warn, and pray for each other? Verse 26 and the following verses are strong reminders of the one option we have for our faith – the one true God to follow: “Dear friends, if we deliberately continue sinning after we have received a full knowledge of the truth, there is no other sacrifice that will cover these sins.”  Is there another sacrifice besides Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross that will cover our sins?

Worship Video: Today’s readings in Hebrews reminded me of Matthew West’s song “Save a Place for me:”!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zbsBUf9VKyc

Have you taken the place at the table God has saved for you?  Click here and sit down!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance—now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant.” Hebrews 9:15 (NIV)

Prayer Point: Pray that Jesus Christ is your mediator and that you have been called to receive eternal life. Pray in faith that Jesus Christ died as a ransom for your sins and that you are now living a new eternal life in Christ.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Hebrews 4:14-7:28
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on BibleGateway.com ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

God has promised us a place of eternal rest if we will simply have faith in his Son. His Son whom verse 14 today tells us: “That is why we have a great High Priest who has gone to heaven, Jesus the Son of God. Let us cling to him and never stop trusting him.”  Are you clinging to Jesus as your High Priest? Do you trust Him?  Are you longing for your eternal rest with Jesus?

Hebrews chapter 5 verse 10 today tells us this about Jesus: “And God designated him to be a High Priest in the line of Melchizedek.” Who is Melchizedek? He first appeared in Scripture in Genesis 14:18-20: “Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God Most High, and he blessed Abram, saying, “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. And blessed be God Most High, who delivered your enemies into your hand.” Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything.” Melchizedek was clearly important, as Abram gave him a tenth of everything. And Christ is a “High Priest in the line of Melchizedek.” The thing to keep in mind is that most Bible scholars do not believe that Melchizedek was literally Christ. So, for us today, it’s fine history to know. But, Christ is our High Priest, as this chapter of Hebrews makes clear.

Verses 11 – 14 today are a great reminder that as Christians we must learn to become “self-feeders.” We can’t rely only on pastors and teachers and mentors to provide us with spiritual nourishment. We must learn to grow our relationship with God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit through our own study and prayer as well. I submit that the One Year Bible is one great way to feed yourself spiritually daily!  How else are you feeding yourself spiritually these days?

Hebrews Chapter 6 verse 1 definitely stood out today: “So let us stop going over the basics of Christianity again and again. Let us go on instead and become mature in our understanding. Surely we don’t need to start all over again with the importance of turning away from evil deeds and placing our faith in God.” I think sometimes we can get too caught up on the basics of Christianity and then never really grow in our faith.  I do believe God is calling us first and foremost to come into relationship with Him through faith in his son Jesus.  But, after that, let us grow!  Let us no longer conform to our worldly ways and passions, even though we now have faith in Jesus.  Let us become saints.  Let us love and serve God, other people, and the poor more and more with each passing day.  Let us go on and become mature in our understanding!  Let us move forward from always being “disciples” to becoming “apostles.”  How is your spiritual growth these days?  Are you growing?  Do you want to grow?

In verses 7 & 8 today we read: “When the ground soaks up the rain that falls on it and bears a good crop for the farmer, it has the blessing of God. But if a field bears thistles and thorns, it is useless. The farmer will condemn that field and burn it.”

Verse 18 is awesome: “Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can take new courage, for we can hold on to his promise with confidence.” Have you fled to Jesus for refuge? Are you holding on to God’s promise with confidence?

Hebrews Chapter 7 is fascinating!  It’s basically an argument for why Jesus is our High Priest today – even though he is not from the tribe of Levi – the tribe of priests.  Instead, the author of Hebrews argues that Jesus is immortal and is a priest in the line of Melchizedek.  Most commentators I have read have said that Jesus is not Melchizedek nor vice versa. Basically, the author is making the case for the New Covenant – New Testament – that the Levitical priesthood line is completed by Jesus who is instituting a new covenant with Jesus as our High Priest.  We need no other.  We can go directly to God through Jesus.  Do you believe this?  Do you practice this?  Do you pray in Jesus’ name?  The name of our High Priest in heaven!

Hebrews chapter 7 verse 27 teaches us today: “Jesus does not need to offer sacrifices every day like the other high priests. They did this for their own sins first and then for the sins of the people.” I hadn’t really thought a lot about this before.  In the Old Testament the Levitical priests had to offer sacrifices first for their own sins – and then they would be clean / pure enough to offer sacrifices for others sins.  The good news of course in the New Testament and in this chapter is that we now have the perfectly clean and pure High Priest of Jesus Christ – who does not need to purify himself first!  He never sinned.  Will you take your sins to Jesus, your High Priest?

Worship Video: Today’s readings remind me of the Sidewalk Prophets song “The Words I Would Say:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=htyU9cwNp0k

Do you know how much He loves you?  Click here for His eternal love!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on three verses of Scripture today: “In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.” Hebrews 5:12-14 (NIV)

Prayer Point: Pray that you are a self-feeder of God’s Word and Truth. Pray that you are not dependent on others to feed you, but that you are mature and can feed yourself, distinguishing good from evil.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

2 Timothy 4:19-22; Hebrews 1:1-4:13
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

Today we begin the book of Hebrews!  What a wonderful book.  I read somewhere that this book is a “letter of encouragement.” I do pray this book will encourage you. There is so much in this one!  The author of the book of Hebrews is unknown. For many centuries, it was thought to be Paul. However, around the time of the Reformation it was thought that this letter was not from Paul, because the writing style is so different from his other letters – and because in all of his other letters, he identifies himself as the writer of the letter. Some now think that either Barnabas or Apollos were two of the potential writers of this letter. It was likely written before the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem in A.D. 70, because the temple is referred to as if it still exists in this letter. What I love about Hebrews is the multitudes of references back to Old Testament scriptures. As you read through Hebrews, I would encourage you to take note of how many OT scriptures this book is referring back to.  Below is an image of Barnabas’ life – a potential candidate for authorship of Hebrews.  You’ll see Barnabas caring for Paul on the left after Paul was stoned and you’ll see Barnabas on the right assisting Paul in his ministry. 

~ Hebrews ~
Author: Uncertain
Place: Uncertain
Date: A.D. 60-69
Content: This important letter was written to Jewish Christians who were perhaps thinking of returning to their old ways in Judaism. It was designed to show that now because Christ has come, there remains nothing in Judaism for the believer. The time of fulfillment has arrived and it would be futile to return to the old life which was inherently inferior to the new life found in the Gospel. This is justified by showing that in every way Christ is better – he is superior to angels, to Moses, and to the Old Testament priest. He mediates a better covenant and offers a better sacrifice. The life of faith that the Christian lives is also better than the old life, proof of this coming from the lives of Old Testament saints who showed the way by their lives of faith.
Theme: The overall superiority of Christ and the Christian life is the central theme of this book. Other religious systems have value, no doubt, but they cannot compare with the work that God has done in Christ. Not even Judaism, which has the Old Testament, can compare, great as it was. Christ is the very essence of God, who did God’s work on earth by dying for our sins. What God requires of us now is trust in him. If we have faith then we have entered into the promises of God – fullness of life now and eternal life to come. (Above commentary is from Tyndale Publishers “The One Year Bible Companion” p. 31)  A great overview of the book of Hebrews by Daniel Wallace is at this link.

In Hebrews chapter 1, the first 3 verses set the stage incredibly well for this book – “Long ago God spoke many times and in many ways to our ancestors through the prophets. But now in these final days, he has spoken to us through his Son. God promised everything to the Son as an inheritance, and through the Son he made the universe and everything in it. The Son reflects God’s own glory, and everything about him represents God exactly. He sustains the universe by the mighty power of his command. After he died to cleanse us from the stain of sin, he sat down in the place of honor at the right hand of the majestic God of heaven.” Wow… great stuff. We have indeed been reading recently about God speaking through Jeremiah in our One Year Bible readings. And here we are reminded that God is now speaking to us through Jesus. How do these 3 verses above speak to your heart?  Has Jesus cleansed you from the stain of sin?

The remaining verses in today’s reading refer to several OT scriptures that tell us Jesus is God. He is not an angel, but is God’s only Son who formed the earth and everything in it. One very amazing thing about our One Year Bible readings today is that we get some verses here in Hebrews 1:10-12 that correlate with our readings in Psalm 102:25-27:
“Lord, in the beginning you laid the foundation of the earth,
and the heavens are the work of your hands.
Even they will perish, but you remain forever.
They will wear out like old clothing.
You will roll them up like an old coat.
They will fade away like old clothing.
But you are always the same;
you will never grow old.”

Hebrews chapter 2 starts strong with the first verse: “So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it.” This is powerful. We must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we’ll drift away from it. My thoughts here are that listening carefully in this sense also means listening often to the truth. Or reading often of the truth. Reading the Bible often. Say, every day? 🙂 I think our human nature is such that we’ll oftentimes hear something and it goes in one ear and out the other. We need repetition. We need a routine. We need the truth. Please don’t drift away from it!  

Verse 12 is beautiful: “I will declare the wonder of your name to my brothers and sisters.” Here Jesus calls those who believe in Him his “brothers and sisters.” What a great thing! To be brothers and sisters of Jesus Christ! And in the gospels Jesus also calls those who believe in Him his “friends.” This is incredible to consider. Who better is there to be your brother and your friend than Jesus? And verse 18 is a great reminder that “Since he himself has gone through suffering and temptation, he is able to help us when we are being tempted.” We all will go through temptations in this life. Don’t feel bad if you are “tempted.” Jesus himself was tempted by the devil in the gospels. The problem comes when we give into temptation and commit the sin. However, when in the midst of temptation, this verse reminds us to turn our minds to Jesus when we are being tempted – and he will help us! He has been there – he has been tempted. Another great tool to combat temptation is bringing Scripture to mind. In fact – this is exactly what Jesus did with the devil in the desert. Each temptation the devil threw at Jesus, Jesus combated with Scripture. What a holy sword Scripture is in the midst of temptation! To help us in the midst of temptation, memorizing Scripture regularly is a very wise practice. Do you memorize Scripture? Do you think it would help you in the midst of temptation?

Hebrews chapter 3 today is a great look at the lives of Moses and Jesus. The text today doesn’t really dive into this point, but something I heard recently that is worth remembering – Moses introduced to Israel the Old Covenant (testament) via the Ten Commandments and laws. Whereas, Jesus ushers in the New Covenant to Israel and all of the world. So, this chapter goes into why Jesus is greater than Moses. Probably this Old Cov v. New Cov point alone would prove this to be true – but, obviously Jesus is also God in the flesh. Moses was simply a man. (albeit a great man in many ways!)

Today in Hebrews 3:13 we read: “But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.” When was the last time you encouraged someone in their walk of faith?  Will you encourage someone today?  How does encouragement help us avoid sin’s deceitfulness?  Do you realize that sin is indeed deceitful?  (sin sells you nothing but lies)  Do you realize that sin can harden your heart?  Do you realize that one of the best ways to be free of the bondage of sin and a hardened heart is through encouragement of others in your church community?  Sin is too strong for us to battle on our own.  We need Jesus.  We need each other.  We need to be actively involved in a church community each week.  Don’t attempt to make a go of this life alone. . . it’s far too risky.

Verse 15 is repeated twice in today’s readings, so it probably is something important for us to remember – “But never forget the warning: “Today you must listen to his voice. Don’t harden your hearts against him as Israel did when they rebelled.”” Are you listening to God’s voice? How is the soil of your heart toward God? Will you let him plant new life within you? Will you let him pull the weeds that need to be pulled?

Hebrews chapter 4 verse 12 of course makes a One Year Bible blogger’s heart happy 🙂 – “For the word of God is full of living power. It is sharper than the sharpest knife, cutting deep into our innermost thoughts and desires. It exposes us for what we really are.” Do you believe that the Word of God is full of power? Not just power, but Living power? Does it cut deep into your innermost thoughts and desires – and expose the condition of your heart? Does the Bible expose you for who you really are? Do you believe that the Word of God can do this? Will you let the Word of God do this?

Worship Video:  Hebrews 3:13 today reminds me of the Jonny Diaz song “A More Beautiful You.” Here’s his thought provoking video for the song:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XNqQUojBg84

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)

Prayer Point: Pray that God’s Word is living and active in your life! Pray that God words penetrates to your soul and spirit, joints and marrow. Pray that God’s Word judges the thoughts and attitudes of your heart each and every moment of your life!

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

2 Timothy 2:1-4:18
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~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

2 Timothy 2, verse 9 has a great verse for us Chronological Bible readers! 🙂 “But the word of God cannot be chained.” Amen!  Well, I suppose in theory one individual Bible could be chained (as you sadly see below), but not all Bibles.  God’s living and active Word overall cannot be chained!

2 Tim 2 is a great chapter today… just jam packed with wisdom. Verse 4 stands out: “And as Christ’s soldier, do not let yourself become tied up in the affairs of this life, for then you cannot satisfy the one who has enlisted you in his army.” How often do we become tied up in affairs of this life…. ? Every day? Every hour? More often than that… ? If we are constantly “distracted” by the affairs of this life, do we lose sight of Jesus? Do we distract ourselves so much so that we can’t serve Jesus well?

Verse 21 is a great closing verse today: “If you keep yourself pure, you will be a utensil God can use for his purpose. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work.” Will you keep yourself pure?  Have you ever realized that you are indeed a utensil for God’s use?  🙂

Second Timothy chapter 2 verse 22 is so very true: “Run from anything that stimulates youthful lust. “ Notice that first word – Run. Flee. Go the other way. U-turn. Don’t hang around. Run.  Do you run from things that stimulate lust in your life? Do you really Run?  How fast?

Verse 22 continues on with some encouraging words – “Follow anything that makes you want to do right. Pursue faith and love and peace, and enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.” I like that – pursue faith. Pursue love. Pursue peace. And – “enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.” I do pray you have some relationships like this in your life? They can provide you such great rest and rejuvenation. A small group in your church may be a great way to find these types of relationships if you don’t have them currently. Community can be messy & tough & scary at times – but it’s so worth it! Please pursue community with other believers. And please do continue to have relationships with others who may not be believers in your life too. Be cautious in that sometimes those old relationships can bring us down or pull us back to old habits if we are not careful.  That is why we most definitely need to have a community of those who call on the Lord in our lives as well.  In community, let us pursue faith! Pursue love! Pursue peace! With pure hearts!

2 Timothy 3:1-5 are 5 powerful verses that deserve to be meditated upon by each of us: “You should also know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control; they will be cruel and have no interest in what is good. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. They will act as if they are religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. You must stay away from people like that.”  How do these teachings of Paul resonate with you?  Do you see parallels in today’s modern world with these teachings?  Are there some people in your life today that you should literally stay away from?

Okay, and then verses 16 and 17 just make One Year Bible bloggers like myself smile…. 🙂 “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right. It is God’s way of preparing us in every way, fully equipped for every good thing God wants us to do.”  Do you believe these verses to be true? Do you believe that Scripture is inspired by God? And useful to teach us what is true? And make us realize what is wrong in our lives?  Is God’s Word fully equipping you for every good thing God wants you to do?

Second Timothy chapter 4 verses 3 & 4 give a good warning for each of us today: “For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to right teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever they want to hear. They will reject the truth and follow strange myths.” Do we do this? Do we “look for” or “shop around for” teachers that we really like? Teachers that may only tell us what we want to hear? That may not challenge us with Truth? That may offer strange myths?  (okay, so this animated teacher guy below is probably a solid teacher – I came across a scary image about false teachers with a wolf growling as one image option for below…  but I just kind of liked this guy better for some reason today.  Wow… here I am shopping around for my teacher!  This guy below is probably telling me what I want to hear! 🙂  Okay, okay, I’ll put up the scary wolf image below too!)

In the close of this 2nd letter to Timothy, we are reading some of Paul’s final written words! They are amazing. It’s great to see some basic human needs in these closing words in verse 13: “When you come, be sure to bring the coat I left with Carpus at Troas. Also bring my books, and especially my papers.” It’s also sad to see how Paul’s been left pretty much alone and abandoned by many.

Worship Video:  The wisdom of so many verses in Second Timothy chapter 2 today reminded me yet again of the power of the Gospel to transform our lives.  The power of Jesus to transform our lives!  And so, I’m reminded of Brandon Heath’s popular song “I’m Not Who I Was.”  I’m not sure if you’ve seen this video set to this song, but do yourself a favor and watch it all the way through.  It is a grace filled song with a grace filled video to go along with it!  Are you who you were?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qrGfA6y9fNI

Are you who you want to be?  Click here to say “I’m Not Who I Was”!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly.” 2 Timothy 2:16 (NIV)

Prayer Point: Pray that you will avoid godless chatter in your life. Pray that you will not indulge in gossip. Pray that you won’t become ungodly by allowing godless chatter to infect your life in any way, shape or form.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!