The History of Western Philosophy
Bertrand Russell
Book Two Catholic Philosophy
Introduction
The Middle Ages was dominated by the Church and thus intellectual thought was also dominated by churchmen.
There is a dualism present in the Middle Ages, the dualism of clergy and laity, of Latin & Teuton, of the kingdom of this world and the kingdom of God, of spirit of flesh and of Pope and Emperor.
The early part of the Middle Ages is dominated by Augustine and Plato. The latter part is dominated with St. Thomas Aquinas and Aristotle.
The misery of the Middle Ages "heightened the intensity of religious feeling". Nothing in the world which was full of death and war and strife was of value except for virtue because that steadfast virtue would lead to eternal bliss.
Part I. The Fathers
Ch. I The Religious Development of the Jews
"The Christian religion, as it was handed over by the late Roman Empire to the barbarians,
consisted of three elements: first, certain philosophical beliefs, derived mainly from Plato and
the Neoplatonists, but also in part from the Stoics; second, a conception of morals and history
derived from the Jews; and thirdly, certain theories, more especially as to salvation, which were
on the whole new in Christianity, though in part traceable to Orphism, and to kindred cults of
the Near East" (Russell, 308).
The most important Jewish elements in Christianity according to Russell:
1. A sacred history that justifies the ways of God to man
2. The existence of a select few whom God especially loves, i.e. The Chosen People or the elect
3. A new concept of what is righteousness. Practical philanthropy as part of the Christian concept of virtue comes from the Jews.
4. The Law
5. The Messiah, the Christians simply moved the prosperity from a temporal plane to a heavenly one
6. The Kingdom of Heaven
Judaism became different from other contemporary religions when it became exclusive and monotheistic. "Jeremiah and Ezekiel, especially, seem to have invented the idea that all religions except one are false, and that the Lord punishes idolatry" (Russell, 310).
The captivity periods in Jewish history were understood to be a justification of the nationalistic and doomsday prophets of earlier times.
The Jews looked to God as a parental relationship and the Jews could be purified through God's punishment.
Judaism also moved from a sacrificial religion to a non-sacrificial one when the Temple was destroyed.
Isaiah greatly increased the belief in a Messiah, possibly as a result of Persian influence.
The Hellenization of Jews was difficult. Jerusalem fell in between the Seleucid and the Ptolemies. When in 175 B.C. the Seleucid king Antiochus IV sought to fully hellenize the Jews he was met with resistance. In 170 B.C. the Jews revolted. This is the history told in the First Book of Maccabees.
It was during this time that the Jews started to believe in an immortality in order to account for the good suffering and the belief that God would reward the good.
Some Jews living in the diaspora were hellenized, but the survival of Judaism is the result of brave Jews in Jerusalem who fought to preserve the original and uniqueness of their monotheistic faith.
The Jewish focus on the Law made them an intensely conservative group.
Both Jews and Christians think a lot about sin, but Christians thought of themselves as sinners while Jews mainly did not.
After the Roman destruction of the Temple in AD 70 the Jews of the Diaspora became increasingly important, especially the very Hellenized Jews of Alexandria.
Philo, a contemporary of Christ, is the perfect illustration of Greek influence on Jews. Philo was orthodox in his religion and a Platonist in his philosophy. He was very important to the early Christian Fathers.
Showing posts with label Isaiah. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Isaiah. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 25, 2019
Friday, June 29, 2012
Why do I seek God only in perilous times?
(Originally written June 29, 2012 on a scrap of paper now lost)
4 Days, no tobacco, no alcohol
Lord, Erin is about to talk to her parents. May your will be done, but Lord I don't want to deal the wedding. If it is possible please don't take Bill's blessing. What I need now is strength and encouragement. Teach me as I am in your word.
Isaiah 40
Lord I am like the grass. I will fall but your word will stand forever. Be mindful of how short my span is.
40:30-31 "Even youths grow tired and weary and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength".
Isaiah 41
41:10 "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand".
41:13 "For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right and hand and says to you, 'Do to fear; I will help you'"
I Chronicles 16
16:10 "Glory in his holy name, let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice"
- I am seeking the Lord, rejoice oh my heart and be not so crestfallen. Be not far from me God.
Lord, why do I seek you only in perilous times? Why don't I seek you always? I love you. I worship you. Make me faithful?
1 Corinthians 10
10:13 "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it"
Psalms 27
27:8 "My heart says of you, 'seek his face', Your face, Lord, I will seek"
-May this be my prayer.
27:14 "Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord"
II Peter
Lord teach me as I read Second Peter. Grant me wisdom to apply in the future. Write the words on my heart that I may stand up to any temptation. Do not put on me more than I can bear or bear it for me because I am weak. Lord help me to increase my faith, goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness and love so I will not be ineffective or unproductive. Teach me to live a holy and godly life. Help me to have the strength and effort to be spotless and blameless and at peace with you.
Thank you Lord for your comfort and peace. may I live today a holy and blameless day. Renew my mind.
4 Days, no tobacco, no alcohol
Lord, Erin is about to talk to her parents. May your will be done, but Lord I don't want to deal the wedding. If it is possible please don't take Bill's blessing. What I need now is strength and encouragement. Teach me as I am in your word.
Isaiah 40
Lord I am like the grass. I will fall but your word will stand forever. Be mindful of how short my span is.
40:30-31 "Even youths grow tired and weary and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength".
Isaiah 41
41:10 "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand".
41:13 "For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right and hand and says to you, 'Do to fear; I will help you'"
I Chronicles 16
16:10 "Glory in his holy name, let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice"
- I am seeking the Lord, rejoice oh my heart and be not so crestfallen. Be not far from me God.
Lord, why do I seek you only in perilous times? Why don't I seek you always? I love you. I worship you. Make me faithful?
1 Corinthians 10
10:13 "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it"
Psalms 27
27:8 "My heart says of you, 'seek his face', Your face, Lord, I will seek"
-May this be my prayer.
27:14 "Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord"
II Peter
Lord teach me as I read Second Peter. Grant me wisdom to apply in the future. Write the words on my heart that I may stand up to any temptation. Do not put on me more than I can bear or bear it for me because I am weak. Lord help me to increase my faith, goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness and love so I will not be ineffective or unproductive. Teach me to live a holy and godly life. Help me to have the strength and effort to be spotless and blameless and at peace with you.
Thank you Lord for your comfort and peace. may I live today a holy and blameless day. Renew my mind.
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Brief Notes on II Chronicles 1-36
(Originally Written June 7, 2008 in the Journal)
Oh Lord God Almighty, look upon me with pity! See how your servant wallows in agony! My wife has left me and now the door is closing on remaining physically close to her. I see that there is a divine will for me to leave this place. I clung to her too greatly and now I have been stripped of hope in early reconciliation.
Where do you want me Lord? I think about Taylor in my head. If this is your doing make it clear, but if this is just my association with the familiar make that known too. I will go where you lead.
Today I will call my father and seek his advice on this matter. Give him your words so that I may follow you. Lord do not abandon me or forsake me. I need you to be my strength for I have none of my own. Lord grant me the wisdom to make the righteous choice and the discernment to hear your voice and know it is you.
Notes on II Chronicles
Chapter 1 - Solomon is granted wisdom and discernment as well as riches and power by God.
Chapter 2 - Solomon makes preparation for building the Temple.
Chapter 3 - They build the Temple
Chapter 4 - The Temple is ornamented
Chapter 5 - The Temple is dedicated
Chapter 6 - Solomon prays to God before Israel
Chapter 7 - God answers Solomon's prayer
Chapter 8 - Solomon rebuilt and fortified cities
Chapter 9 -
The queen of Sheba visited Solomon to test his wisdom. Many kings sought an audience with Solomon and paid him tribute. Solomon reigned 40 years and died.
Chapter 10 - Israel rebelled against Solomon's son Rehoboam and nation split.
Chapter 11 - Rehoboam fortified Judah. He had 28 sons.
Chapter 12 - Rehoboam turned from the Lord. The Lord punished Judah by raising up Egypt against them.
Chapter 13 -
Abijah succeeded his father Rehoboam as king of Judah. Abijah defeated Jeroboam, king of Israel, because the Judahites called upon the Lord.
Asa, son of Abijah succeeded him as king of Judah.
Chapter 14 -
Asa followed the Lord.
Judah defeated Zerah the Ethiopian king and his force of a million strong.
Chapter 15 - Asa removed idols from Judah
Chapter 16 - Asa sinned by trusting the king of Aram when Israel attacked Judah.
Chapter 17
Jehoshaphat succeeded Asa as king of Judah. Jehoshaphat pleased the Lord. He fortified the cities of Judah and the surrounding nations feared the Lord on his account.
Chapter 18
Jehoshaphat and Ahab, king of Israel, went to battle against Aram. They were defeated and Ahab died.
Chapter 19 - Jehoshaphat set up judges to bring order and peace to Judah.
Chapter 20 - Jehoshaphat prayed to the Lord for a vast army had been assembled against Judah. The Lord caused the army to fight amongst itself and the Judahites took the plunder.
Chapter 21 -
Jehoram succeeded his father Jehoshaphat as king of Judah. Jehoram was evil and practiced idolatry. The Lord raised Edom and Libnah against Judah for Jehoram's wickedness. Jehoram died and was buried in the city of David, but not as a king.
Chapter 22 -
Ahaziah became king of Judah. He was the youngest son of Jehoram. Ahaziah did evil in the sight of the Lord. Ahaziah was cut down by Jehu, who the Lord had appointed to overthrow the house of Ahab in Israel.
Athaliah, the mother of Ahaziah took over Judah by killing the royal family. Only Jehosheba, the youngest son of Ahaziah was spared and that was because he was hidden.
Chapter 23 - After eight years of the reign of Athaliah, Jehosheba was named king. He was crowned king and Athaliah was killed.
Chapter 24 -
Joash and the priest Jehoida restored the Temple of the Lord and reinforced it. Jehoida lived to 130 years old and died. He was buried with the kings for his service to the Lord.
Joash turned from God after the death of Jehoida and even had Jehoida's son Zechariah stoned to death after he prophesied against him.
Joash was killed by conspirators. He was not buried as a king.
Chapter 25
Amaziah replaced his father Joash as king of Judah. He pleased the Lord but did not serve God wholeheartedly. He conquered Seir but brough back their gods to worship. For this he was punished.
Amaziah, filled with pride went to war with King Joash of Israel. He was soundly defeated. Amaziah fled to Lachish but was cut down there.
Chapter 26
Uzziah became king after his father Amaziah was killed. Uzziah fortified Jerusalem and gathered a large army to him. He was feared among the nations. When Uzziah became strong he became too proud and burnt incense to the Lord. As a result he received leprosy and was a leper until the day he died.
Chapter 27
Jotham succeeded his father Uzziah as king of Judah. Jotham pleased the Lord, but the people were sinful.
Chapter 28
Ahaz succeeded his father Jotham as king. Ahaz did not please the Lord and worshipped Baal. As a result Judah fell to Aram and then to Israel in war. Ahaz set up more high places to the gods of Aram and further angered the Lord.
Chapter 29
Hezekiah, son of Ahaz became king of Judah. Hezekiah summoned the Levites to restore the Temple of the Lord. Hezekiah had a sin offering for all of Israel prepared.
Chapter 30
Hezekiah called for all of Judah and Israel to celebrate Passover in Jerusalem.
"Be not obstinate, as your fathers were; extend your hands to the Lord and come to his sanctuary that he has consecrated forever and serve the Lord your God, that he may turn away his burning anger from you" (II Chronicles 30:8, New American Bible).
Chapter 31 - Hezekiah reestablished the prescribed order in the priesthood.
Chapter 32
Sennacherib, king of Assyria besieged Jerusalem and mocked the Lord. Isaiah the prophet and King Hezekiah prayed to the Lord. The Lord sent an angel who defeated the Assyrian invaders. Sennacherib returned home and was killed in the temple of his god by his own family.
Hezekiah died and was buried as a king.
Chapter 33
Manasseh became king at age twelve and reigned, wickedly, for fifty five years.
Manasseh provoked the Lord to great anger with idolatry, immolations, divination and spirit worship.
Manasseh repented after being taken captive by the Babylonians.
Amon succeeded him as king of Judah. Amon was even more wicked than his father Manasseh. He did not repent and was killed by his subjects.
Josiah, the son of Amon became king of Judah.
Chapter 34
Josiah served the Lord. He destroyed the high places and destroyed the temple of Baal.
Josiah restored the Temple of the Lord. While restoring the Temple, the book of the Law of Moses was found.
Josiah renewed the covenant with the Lord.
Chapter 35
Josiah held Passover that had not been seen since the time of Samuel (as was prescribed in the book of the Law).
Josiah was killed in battle against Neco, the Pharaoh of Egypt.
Chapter 36
Jehoahaz replaced his father as king of Judah. Jehoahaz reigned only three months before being kidnapped by Neco.
Jehoiakim, his brother became king. Jehoiakim was defeated by Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon.
Jehoiachin, son of Jehoiakim became king. Jehoiachin was evil and was carried away by Nebuchadnezzar to Babylon.
Zedekiah, the brother of Jehoiachin became king. Zedekiah was evil and did not humble himself in front of the Lord's prophet Jeremiah.
Babylon came down and destroyed the Temple and slaughtered many. The survivors were carried off to Babylon.
Years later, the Persian king, Cyrus, who defeated the Babylonians, released the Judahites to go home to Jerusalem.
Our father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the glory and the power forever and ever, Amen.
Thank you Lord for this day. May you continue to comfort me through the night.
Oh Lord God Almighty, look upon me with pity! See how your servant wallows in agony! My wife has left me and now the door is closing on remaining physically close to her. I see that there is a divine will for me to leave this place. I clung to her too greatly and now I have been stripped of hope in early reconciliation.
Where do you want me Lord? I think about Taylor in my head. If this is your doing make it clear, but if this is just my association with the familiar make that known too. I will go where you lead.
Today I will call my father and seek his advice on this matter. Give him your words so that I may follow you. Lord do not abandon me or forsake me. I need you to be my strength for I have none of my own. Lord grant me the wisdom to make the righteous choice and the discernment to hear your voice and know it is you.
Notes on II Chronicles
Chapter 1 - Solomon is granted wisdom and discernment as well as riches and power by God.
Chapter 2 - Solomon makes preparation for building the Temple.
Chapter 3 - They build the Temple
Chapter 4 - The Temple is ornamented
Chapter 5 - The Temple is dedicated
Chapter 6 - Solomon prays to God before Israel
Chapter 7 - God answers Solomon's prayer
Chapter 8 - Solomon rebuilt and fortified cities
Chapter 9 -
The queen of Sheba visited Solomon to test his wisdom. Many kings sought an audience with Solomon and paid him tribute. Solomon reigned 40 years and died.
Chapter 10 - Israel rebelled against Solomon's son Rehoboam and nation split.
Chapter 11 - Rehoboam fortified Judah. He had 28 sons.
Chapter 12 - Rehoboam turned from the Lord. The Lord punished Judah by raising up Egypt against them.
Chapter 13 -
Abijah succeeded his father Rehoboam as king of Judah. Abijah defeated Jeroboam, king of Israel, because the Judahites called upon the Lord.
Asa, son of Abijah succeeded him as king of Judah.
Chapter 14 -
Asa followed the Lord.
Judah defeated Zerah the Ethiopian king and his force of a million strong.
Chapter 15 - Asa removed idols from Judah
Chapter 16 - Asa sinned by trusting the king of Aram when Israel attacked Judah.
Chapter 17
Jehoshaphat succeeded Asa as king of Judah. Jehoshaphat pleased the Lord. He fortified the cities of Judah and the surrounding nations feared the Lord on his account.
Chapter 18
Jehoshaphat and Ahab, king of Israel, went to battle against Aram. They were defeated and Ahab died.
Chapter 19 - Jehoshaphat set up judges to bring order and peace to Judah.
Chapter 20 - Jehoshaphat prayed to the Lord for a vast army had been assembled against Judah. The Lord caused the army to fight amongst itself and the Judahites took the plunder.
Chapter 21 -
Jehoram succeeded his father Jehoshaphat as king of Judah. Jehoram was evil and practiced idolatry. The Lord raised Edom and Libnah against Judah for Jehoram's wickedness. Jehoram died and was buried in the city of David, but not as a king.
Chapter 22 -
Ahaziah became king of Judah. He was the youngest son of Jehoram. Ahaziah did evil in the sight of the Lord. Ahaziah was cut down by Jehu, who the Lord had appointed to overthrow the house of Ahab in Israel.
Athaliah, the mother of Ahaziah took over Judah by killing the royal family. Only Jehosheba, the youngest son of Ahaziah was spared and that was because he was hidden.
Chapter 23 - After eight years of the reign of Athaliah, Jehosheba was named king. He was crowned king and Athaliah was killed.
Chapter 24 -
Joash and the priest Jehoida restored the Temple of the Lord and reinforced it. Jehoida lived to 130 years old and died. He was buried with the kings for his service to the Lord.
Joash turned from God after the death of Jehoida and even had Jehoida's son Zechariah stoned to death after he prophesied against him.
Joash was killed by conspirators. He was not buried as a king.
Chapter 25
Amaziah replaced his father Joash as king of Judah. He pleased the Lord but did not serve God wholeheartedly. He conquered Seir but brough back their gods to worship. For this he was punished.
Amaziah, filled with pride went to war with King Joash of Israel. He was soundly defeated. Amaziah fled to Lachish but was cut down there.
Chapter 26
Uzziah became king after his father Amaziah was killed. Uzziah fortified Jerusalem and gathered a large army to him. He was feared among the nations. When Uzziah became strong he became too proud and burnt incense to the Lord. As a result he received leprosy and was a leper until the day he died.
Chapter 27
Jotham succeeded his father Uzziah as king of Judah. Jotham pleased the Lord, but the people were sinful.
Chapter 28
Ahaz succeeded his father Jotham as king. Ahaz did not please the Lord and worshipped Baal. As a result Judah fell to Aram and then to Israel in war. Ahaz set up more high places to the gods of Aram and further angered the Lord.
Chapter 29
Hezekiah, son of Ahaz became king of Judah. Hezekiah summoned the Levites to restore the Temple of the Lord. Hezekiah had a sin offering for all of Israel prepared.
Chapter 30
Hezekiah called for all of Judah and Israel to celebrate Passover in Jerusalem.
"Be not obstinate, as your fathers were; extend your hands to the Lord and come to his sanctuary that he has consecrated forever and serve the Lord your God, that he may turn away his burning anger from you" (II Chronicles 30:8, New American Bible).
Chapter 31 - Hezekiah reestablished the prescribed order in the priesthood.
Chapter 32
Sennacherib, king of Assyria besieged Jerusalem and mocked the Lord. Isaiah the prophet and King Hezekiah prayed to the Lord. The Lord sent an angel who defeated the Assyrian invaders. Sennacherib returned home and was killed in the temple of his god by his own family.
Hezekiah died and was buried as a king.
Chapter 33
Manasseh became king at age twelve and reigned, wickedly, for fifty five years.
Manasseh provoked the Lord to great anger with idolatry, immolations, divination and spirit worship.
Manasseh repented after being taken captive by the Babylonians.
Amon succeeded him as king of Judah. Amon was even more wicked than his father Manasseh. He did not repent and was killed by his subjects.
Josiah, the son of Amon became king of Judah.
Chapter 34
Josiah served the Lord. He destroyed the high places and destroyed the temple of Baal.
Josiah restored the Temple of the Lord. While restoring the Temple, the book of the Law of Moses was found.
Josiah renewed the covenant with the Lord.
Chapter 35
Josiah held Passover that had not been seen since the time of Samuel (as was prescribed in the book of the Law).
Josiah was killed in battle against Neco, the Pharaoh of Egypt.
Chapter 36
Jehoahaz replaced his father as king of Judah. Jehoahaz reigned only three months before being kidnapped by Neco.
Jehoiakim, his brother became king. Jehoiakim was defeated by Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon.
Jehoiachin, son of Jehoiakim became king. Jehoiachin was evil and was carried away by Nebuchadnezzar to Babylon.
Zedekiah, the brother of Jehoiachin became king. Zedekiah was evil and did not humble himself in front of the Lord's prophet Jeremiah.
Babylon came down and destroyed the Temple and slaughtered many. The survivors were carried off to Babylon.
Years later, the Persian king, Cyrus, who defeated the Babylonians, released the Judahites to go home to Jerusalem.
Our father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the glory and the power forever and ever, Amen.
Thank you Lord for this day. May you continue to comfort me through the night.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Brief Notes on 2 Kings 8-25
(Originally written June 4, 2008 in the Journal)
Thank you Lord for today. May all earth praise you for what you have done. The weather is beautiful. Tonight we go to meet with our counselors. Lord use tonight to begin the reconciliation process. Give me the strength to endure this process and separation. Give me the wisdom to speak what needs to be said. Pour out your spirit on Kris and John that they may enlighten us. Circumcise our hearts, ears and minds. Above all may you be glorified in this meeting! Grant me some wisdom from this reading.
Notes on 2 Kings
Chapter 8
Elisha told of a seven year famine that was coming and it came to pass.
Ben-hadad, king of Aram became ill and sent Hazael to seek out Elisha to see if he would recover. Elisha told Hazael to tell Ben-hadad that he would live but told Hazael that he was in fact going to die. Elisha then wept. Hazael asked why he was crying and Elisha told him that he wept for the monstrous things that Hazael would do to Israel. Hazael asked how he would do these things and Elisha told him that he would become king of Aram. Ben-hadad died and Hazael became king.
Jehoram succeeded his father, Jehoshaphat as king of Judah. Jehoram did evil in the sight of the Lord.
Ahaziah succeeded his father, Jehoram as king of Judah. Ahaziah reigned only for one year and did evil in the sight of the Lord.
Chapter 9
Elisha sent a prophet to anoint Jehu, son of Jehoshaphat as king of Israel. The prophet then doomed the house of Ahab. Jehu then killed Joram, the king of Israel. Next, he killed Ahaziah, king of Judah who was visiting Joram in Jezreel. Jehu had three eunuchs throw Jezebel out of a window. He rode over her with a chariot. Dogs then devoured her flesh as the prophet decreed.
Chapter 10
Jehu then killed all of Ahab's descendants and supporters. Jehu then had 42 men of the house of Ahaziah killed. Jehu then called all of the worshippers of Baal in Israel into the temple of Baal. He slew them all and destroyed the temple, turning it into a latrine. While Jehu did good in the sight of the Lord, he still continued the sins of Jeroboam. He reigned over Israel for 28 years.
Chapter 11
Athaliah, mother of Ahaziah, killed all the royal family of Judah to rule. Joash was hidden from her though. Seven years later Joash was crowned as king of Judah. At the coronation of Joash, Athaliah was put to death. Judah then destroyed the temple of Baal and killed its high priest.
Chapter 12
Joash was seven years old when he became king. He reigned for 40 years and did good in the sight of the Lord because he was guided by the priest Jehoiada.
Chapter 13
Jehoahaz, son of Jehu became king of Israel. He did evil in the sight of the Lord. Then, Jehoash became king of Israel. He also did evil in the sight of the Lord.
Elisha died and was buried.
Some men were burying a man when Moabite raiders came upon them suddenly. They threw the dead man's body into the grave of Elisha and fled. The man came back to life when he touched the bones of Elisha.
Chapter 14
Amaziah succeeded Joash as king of Judah. Amaziah pleased the Lord, but not as much as David. Amaziah killed the officials who murdered his father. He defeated the Edomites and captured the city of Sela. Amaziah was killed in Lachish and his son Azariah replaced him as king.
Jeroboam II became king of Israel after his father Jehoash died. Jeroboam II did evil in the sight of the Lord.
Chapter 15
Azariah, son of Amaziah, reigned over Judah for 52 years. He pleased the Lord, but did not destroy the high places. He became afflicted with leprosy.
Zechariah succeed his father Jeroboam II in Israel. He did evil in the sight of the Lord and only reigned for six months.
Shallum killed Zechariah and ruled one month over Israel. Menahem killed Shallum and became king of Israel. He did evil in the sight of the Lord. Pekahiah, son of Menahem, succeeded his father on the throne of Israel. He did evil in the sight of the Lord. Pekahiah was killed by Pekah. Pekah then took over Israel. Hoshea, son of Elah, killed Pekah and took over Israel.
Jotham, son of Azariah, became king of Judah. He pleased the Lord, but did not destroy the high places.
Chapter 16
Ahaz, son of Jotham, succeeded his father as king of Judah. Ahaz did evil in the sight of the LOrd. He even immolated his son.
Rezin, king of Aram and Pekah, king of Israel then besieged Jerusalem. Ahaz enlisted Tiglath-pileser, king of Assyria to help him. Together they defeated Aram and Israel. Tiglath-pileser killed Rezin.
Ahaz then removed the altar of the Lord from the Temple and replaced it with one that was similar to the one in Damascus.
Chapter 17
Hoshea became king in Israel after killing Pekah. He did evil in the sight of the Lord, yet not to the extent of the other kings of Israel. Under Hoshea, Shalmaneser, king of Assyria captured Samaria and deported its citizens to Assyria. The Lord allowed this to happen because Israel was a stiff-necked people and served other gods.
Chapter 18
Hezekiah came to power in Judah. He pleased the Lord. He removed the high places and shattered the pillars and cut down the sacred poles. Hezekiah never turned from the Lord.
The king of Assyria taunted Jerusalem. He tried to turn Judah against king Hezekiah.
Chapter 19
Hezekiah called upon the Lord for deliverance from Assyria. The angel of the Lord came down and killed 165,000 Assyrians and so Sennacherib, king of Assyria returned to Nineveh. Sennacherib was killed in the temple of his god.
Chapter 20
Hezekiah became ill and Isaiah came to him to tell him to get his house in order for he was going to die. Hezekiah wept and prayed to the Lord. He was healed and lived 15 more years. Isaiah told Hezekiah that a time was coming when the people of Judah would be carried off to Babylon.
Chapter 21
Manasseh succeeded Hezekiah in Judah. He was 12 years old and reigned 55 years. Manasseh did evil in the sight of the Lord. He rebuilt the high places, erected altars to Baal and set up a sacred pole. He immolated his son and practiced witchcraft. Manasseh did more evil than any other king of Judah and shed much innocent blood.
Amon, son of Manasseh replaced Manasseh as king of Judah. Amon abandoned the Lord and did evil. Amon was killed in his house.
Chapter 22
Josiah, son of Amon became king at age 8. Josiah pleased the Lord and reigned 31 years.
Chapter 23
Josiah removed from the temple all things given to other gods. Josiah removed the sacred pole from the temple and burned it. He tore down the apartments of the cult prostitutes. He defiled all the high places and removed all the priests that were not Levites. He removed the place of Molech so there would be no more immolations. He cut down the sins of Jeroboam. Josiah reestablished the Passover. No Passover had been seen since before the time of the Judges. Josiah did away with all witchcraft and idolatry. Josiah was killed in battle against Egypt at Meggido.
Jehoahaz, son of Josiah replaced him as king of Judah. Jehoahaz did evil in the sight of the Lord. Jehoahaz was carried away to Egypt and Pharaoh Neco appointed Eliakim, son of Josiah as king of Judah. Eliakim changed his name to Jehoiakim and did evil in the sight of the Lord.
Chapter 24
Jehoiakim was made a vassal by Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon. Jehoiachin replaced Jehoiakim as king and did evil in the sight of the Lord. Nebuchadnezzar captured Jerusalem and carried of its treasure. He also deported the Judahites from Jerusalem. Nebuchadnezzar appointed Mattaniah, Jehoiachin's uncle as king. Mattaniah changed his name to Zedekiah. Zedekiah did evil in the sight of the Lord and rebelled against Nebuchadnezzar.
Chapter 25
Nebuchadnezzar captured Jerusalem and caught Zedekiah. Zedekiah's sons were killed in front of them and then he was taken to Babylon. Nebuchadnezzar burned the Temple and the Palace. He burned all of Jerusalem. They carried away all the treasure and people of Jerusalem. Judah was carried away in exile.
Jehoiachin, king of Judah was released by Evil-merodach, successor of Nebuchadnezzar and given a seat of honor in Babylon.
The penalty of sin is great my Lord. I deserve no less than these of you chosen people. My sin is great indeed. Look upon me with mercy for I choose to serve you every day of my life. Do not destroy me, but show me your grace.
Thank you Lord for today. May all earth praise you for what you have done. The weather is beautiful. Tonight we go to meet with our counselors. Lord use tonight to begin the reconciliation process. Give me the strength to endure this process and separation. Give me the wisdom to speak what needs to be said. Pour out your spirit on Kris and John that they may enlighten us. Circumcise our hearts, ears and minds. Above all may you be glorified in this meeting! Grant me some wisdom from this reading.
Notes on 2 Kings
Chapter 8
Elisha told of a seven year famine that was coming and it came to pass.
Ben-hadad, king of Aram became ill and sent Hazael to seek out Elisha to see if he would recover. Elisha told Hazael to tell Ben-hadad that he would live but told Hazael that he was in fact going to die. Elisha then wept. Hazael asked why he was crying and Elisha told him that he wept for the monstrous things that Hazael would do to Israel. Hazael asked how he would do these things and Elisha told him that he would become king of Aram. Ben-hadad died and Hazael became king.
Jehoram succeeded his father, Jehoshaphat as king of Judah. Jehoram did evil in the sight of the Lord.
Ahaziah succeeded his father, Jehoram as king of Judah. Ahaziah reigned only for one year and did evil in the sight of the Lord.
Chapter 9
Elisha sent a prophet to anoint Jehu, son of Jehoshaphat as king of Israel. The prophet then doomed the house of Ahab. Jehu then killed Joram, the king of Israel. Next, he killed Ahaziah, king of Judah who was visiting Joram in Jezreel. Jehu had three eunuchs throw Jezebel out of a window. He rode over her with a chariot. Dogs then devoured her flesh as the prophet decreed.
Chapter 10
Jehu then killed all of Ahab's descendants and supporters. Jehu then had 42 men of the house of Ahaziah killed. Jehu then called all of the worshippers of Baal in Israel into the temple of Baal. He slew them all and destroyed the temple, turning it into a latrine. While Jehu did good in the sight of the Lord, he still continued the sins of Jeroboam. He reigned over Israel for 28 years.
Chapter 11
Athaliah, mother of Ahaziah, killed all the royal family of Judah to rule. Joash was hidden from her though. Seven years later Joash was crowned as king of Judah. At the coronation of Joash, Athaliah was put to death. Judah then destroyed the temple of Baal and killed its high priest.
Chapter 12
Joash was seven years old when he became king. He reigned for 40 years and did good in the sight of the Lord because he was guided by the priest Jehoiada.
Chapter 13
Jehoahaz, son of Jehu became king of Israel. He did evil in the sight of the Lord. Then, Jehoash became king of Israel. He also did evil in the sight of the Lord.
Elisha died and was buried.
Some men were burying a man when Moabite raiders came upon them suddenly. They threw the dead man's body into the grave of Elisha and fled. The man came back to life when he touched the bones of Elisha.
Chapter 14
Amaziah succeeded Joash as king of Judah. Amaziah pleased the Lord, but not as much as David. Amaziah killed the officials who murdered his father. He defeated the Edomites and captured the city of Sela. Amaziah was killed in Lachish and his son Azariah replaced him as king.
Jeroboam II became king of Israel after his father Jehoash died. Jeroboam II did evil in the sight of the Lord.
Chapter 15
Azariah, son of Amaziah, reigned over Judah for 52 years. He pleased the Lord, but did not destroy the high places. He became afflicted with leprosy.
Zechariah succeed his father Jeroboam II in Israel. He did evil in the sight of the Lord and only reigned for six months.
Shallum killed Zechariah and ruled one month over Israel. Menahem killed Shallum and became king of Israel. He did evil in the sight of the Lord. Pekahiah, son of Menahem, succeeded his father on the throne of Israel. He did evil in the sight of the Lord. Pekahiah was killed by Pekah. Pekah then took over Israel. Hoshea, son of Elah, killed Pekah and took over Israel.
Jotham, son of Azariah, became king of Judah. He pleased the Lord, but did not destroy the high places.
Chapter 16
Ahaz, son of Jotham, succeeded his father as king of Judah. Ahaz did evil in the sight of the LOrd. He even immolated his son.
Rezin, king of Aram and Pekah, king of Israel then besieged Jerusalem. Ahaz enlisted Tiglath-pileser, king of Assyria to help him. Together they defeated Aram and Israel. Tiglath-pileser killed Rezin.
Ahaz then removed the altar of the Lord from the Temple and replaced it with one that was similar to the one in Damascus.
Chapter 17
Hoshea became king in Israel after killing Pekah. He did evil in the sight of the Lord, yet not to the extent of the other kings of Israel. Under Hoshea, Shalmaneser, king of Assyria captured Samaria and deported its citizens to Assyria. The Lord allowed this to happen because Israel was a stiff-necked people and served other gods.
Chapter 18
Hezekiah came to power in Judah. He pleased the Lord. He removed the high places and shattered the pillars and cut down the sacred poles. Hezekiah never turned from the Lord.
The king of Assyria taunted Jerusalem. He tried to turn Judah against king Hezekiah.
Chapter 19
Hezekiah called upon the Lord for deliverance from Assyria. The angel of the Lord came down and killed 165,000 Assyrians and so Sennacherib, king of Assyria returned to Nineveh. Sennacherib was killed in the temple of his god.
Chapter 20
Hezekiah became ill and Isaiah came to him to tell him to get his house in order for he was going to die. Hezekiah wept and prayed to the Lord. He was healed and lived 15 more years. Isaiah told Hezekiah that a time was coming when the people of Judah would be carried off to Babylon.
Chapter 21
Manasseh succeeded Hezekiah in Judah. He was 12 years old and reigned 55 years. Manasseh did evil in the sight of the Lord. He rebuilt the high places, erected altars to Baal and set up a sacred pole. He immolated his son and practiced witchcraft. Manasseh did more evil than any other king of Judah and shed much innocent blood.
Amon, son of Manasseh replaced Manasseh as king of Judah. Amon abandoned the Lord and did evil. Amon was killed in his house.
Chapter 22
Josiah, son of Amon became king at age 8. Josiah pleased the Lord and reigned 31 years.
Chapter 23
Josiah removed from the temple all things given to other gods. Josiah removed the sacred pole from the temple and burned it. He tore down the apartments of the cult prostitutes. He defiled all the high places and removed all the priests that were not Levites. He removed the place of Molech so there would be no more immolations. He cut down the sins of Jeroboam. Josiah reestablished the Passover. No Passover had been seen since before the time of the Judges. Josiah did away with all witchcraft and idolatry. Josiah was killed in battle against Egypt at Meggido.
Jehoahaz, son of Josiah replaced him as king of Judah. Jehoahaz did evil in the sight of the Lord. Jehoahaz was carried away to Egypt and Pharaoh Neco appointed Eliakim, son of Josiah as king of Judah. Eliakim changed his name to Jehoiakim and did evil in the sight of the Lord.
Chapter 24
Jehoiakim was made a vassal by Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon. Jehoiachin replaced Jehoiakim as king and did evil in the sight of the Lord. Nebuchadnezzar captured Jerusalem and carried of its treasure. He also deported the Judahites from Jerusalem. Nebuchadnezzar appointed Mattaniah, Jehoiachin's uncle as king. Mattaniah changed his name to Zedekiah. Zedekiah did evil in the sight of the Lord and rebelled against Nebuchadnezzar.
Chapter 25
Nebuchadnezzar captured Jerusalem and caught Zedekiah. Zedekiah's sons were killed in front of them and then he was taken to Babylon. Nebuchadnezzar burned the Temple and the Palace. He burned all of Jerusalem. They carried away all the treasure and people of Jerusalem. Judah was carried away in exile.
Jehoiachin, king of Judah was released by Evil-merodach, successor of Nebuchadnezzar and given a seat of honor in Babylon.
The penalty of sin is great my Lord. I deserve no less than these of you chosen people. My sin is great indeed. Look upon me with mercy for I choose to serve you every day of my life. Do not destroy me, but show me your grace.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Brief Notes on Deuteronomy 1 - 17
(Originally written May 23, 2008 in the Journal)
Chapter 1
"Do not fear or lose heart" (Deuteronomy 1:21, New American Bible)
Chapter 2
The Lord would not give the Israelites any land of the Seir or of Moab because they are the descendants of Esau and Lot. He would also not give the land of the Ammonites to the Israelites because they too were the descendants of Lot. The Ammonites, Moabites and the descendants of Esau had all driven out the inhabitants of their land with the help of God. The previous inhabitants were the strong and tall people like the Anakim.
Who are the Anakim? Is there any other reference to them? In mythology? In archeology?
The Lord first delivered Heshbon, the kingdom of the Amorite ruler Sihon to the Israelites. The Israelites doomed them all, man, woman and child.
Chapter 3
The Lord then delivered the Kingdom of Bashan to the Israelites. They defeated King Og and captured over sixty cities. They left no survivors.
Og, the King of Bashan was the last of the Rephaim. His sarcophagus was nine cubits long and four cubits wide.
Moses asked the Lord to allow him to enter the kingdom of the Promised Land, but the Lord refused and showed it to him from a high hill.
Chapter 4
For the Israelites, Egypt was the iron foundry. God allowed the Israelites to be afflicted there for the sake of their spiritual purification. Contrast that with the furnace of affliction in Isaiah 48.
Lord, am I in the iron foundry or the furnace of affliction? I have sinned and deserve the latter. Yet, I am redeemed by the blood of Christ. I am atoned. If this is the foundry then continue the smelting so that I can be pure and strong. If this is the furnace of affliction Lord, cool the fires of your righteous rage and heal me with the balm of your merciful touch. Hear my prayer oh God, for you answer those who call to you. Hear me for the sake of your righteousness and look on me with pity and mercy and love.
Moses warns the Israelites not to be tempted by Idolatry.
"Since the Lord, your God, is a merciful God, He will not abandon and destroy you, nor forget the covenant which under oath he made with your fathers" (Deuteronomy 4:31, New American Bible)
Chapter 5
The retelling of the commandments
Chapter 6
Follow the statutes of the Lord and He will prosper you.
Chapter 7
Do not take mercy or pity on the enemies of God. Loathe and abhor everything that is doomed lest you be doomed by it.
Chapter 8
Do not allow prosperity to make you forget the Lord your God.
Chapter 9
Understand that the Lord gives you good land not because the merits of your heart, but because of the wickedness of others.
Chapter 10
Circumcise your hearts; be receptive to divine grace and guidance.
Chapter 11
You will be blessed and rewarded for obedience to God. You will be cursed for disobedience.
Chapter 12
Destroy all the strongholds and places of idol worship. You will worship the Lord in the place he appoints for you, not wherever you fancy.
Chapter 13
Do not follow a prophet who correctly tells the future but leads you to other gods for the Lord is testing you. Stone to death even your brother, wife or friend if they tempt you to stray to a false god. If a city is led to idolatry, kill all the inhabitants and burn the city. Do not rebuild it.
Chapter 14
Do not follow pagan mourning rituals.
Chapter 15
About the slaves and the poor
Chapter 16
The observation of Passover, Pentecost and the feast of the Booths.
There should be judges in communities whose end should only be justice without partiality.
Do not worship as the pagans do.
Chapter 17
You must stone idol worshippers, but there must be at least two or three witnesses to put a man to death. You must purge evil from the community.
When judges cannot decide they must refer them to the Levitical priests. They will hand down the decision after studying the case.
If you decide to take a king he will be appointed by God. He must not have many wives, horses or silver.
Chapter 1
"Do not fear or lose heart" (Deuteronomy 1:21, New American Bible)
Chapter 2
The Lord would not give the Israelites any land of the Seir or of Moab because they are the descendants of Esau and Lot. He would also not give the land of the Ammonites to the Israelites because they too were the descendants of Lot. The Ammonites, Moabites and the descendants of Esau had all driven out the inhabitants of their land with the help of God. The previous inhabitants were the strong and tall people like the Anakim.
Who are the Anakim? Is there any other reference to them? In mythology? In archeology?
The Lord first delivered Heshbon, the kingdom of the Amorite ruler Sihon to the Israelites. The Israelites doomed them all, man, woman and child.
Chapter 3
The Lord then delivered the Kingdom of Bashan to the Israelites. They defeated King Og and captured over sixty cities. They left no survivors.
Og, the King of Bashan was the last of the Rephaim. His sarcophagus was nine cubits long and four cubits wide.
Moses asked the Lord to allow him to enter the kingdom of the Promised Land, but the Lord refused and showed it to him from a high hill.
Chapter 4
For the Israelites, Egypt was the iron foundry. God allowed the Israelites to be afflicted there for the sake of their spiritual purification. Contrast that with the furnace of affliction in Isaiah 48.
Lord, am I in the iron foundry or the furnace of affliction? I have sinned and deserve the latter. Yet, I am redeemed by the blood of Christ. I am atoned. If this is the foundry then continue the smelting so that I can be pure and strong. If this is the furnace of affliction Lord, cool the fires of your righteous rage and heal me with the balm of your merciful touch. Hear my prayer oh God, for you answer those who call to you. Hear me for the sake of your righteousness and look on me with pity and mercy and love.
Moses warns the Israelites not to be tempted by Idolatry.
"Since the Lord, your God, is a merciful God, He will not abandon and destroy you, nor forget the covenant which under oath he made with your fathers" (Deuteronomy 4:31, New American Bible)
Chapter 5
The retelling of the commandments
Chapter 6
Follow the statutes of the Lord and He will prosper you.
Chapter 7
Do not take mercy or pity on the enemies of God. Loathe and abhor everything that is doomed lest you be doomed by it.
Chapter 8
Do not allow prosperity to make you forget the Lord your God.
Chapter 9
Understand that the Lord gives you good land not because the merits of your heart, but because of the wickedness of others.
Chapter 10
Circumcise your hearts; be receptive to divine grace and guidance.
Chapter 11
You will be blessed and rewarded for obedience to God. You will be cursed for disobedience.
Chapter 12
Destroy all the strongholds and places of idol worship. You will worship the Lord in the place he appoints for you, not wherever you fancy.
Chapter 13
Do not follow a prophet who correctly tells the future but leads you to other gods for the Lord is testing you. Stone to death even your brother, wife or friend if they tempt you to stray to a false god. If a city is led to idolatry, kill all the inhabitants and burn the city. Do not rebuild it.
Chapter 14
Do not follow pagan mourning rituals.
Chapter 15
About the slaves and the poor
Chapter 16
The observation of Passover, Pentecost and the feast of the Booths.
There should be judges in communities whose end should only be justice without partiality.
Do not worship as the pagans do.
Chapter 17
You must stone idol worshippers, but there must be at least two or three witnesses to put a man to death. You must purge evil from the community.
When judges cannot decide they must refer them to the Levitical priests. They will hand down the decision after studying the case.
If you decide to take a king he will be appointed by God. He must not have many wives, horses or silver.
Tuesday, May 9, 2006
Biblical backing for animal rights issues
(Originally written May 9, 2006 in 3 Subject Book)
Animal Rights
Rights/Duties
Sentient Rights
Genesis 1:26, 9:1-7 Divine image bearers exercising dominion
Genesis 2:16-17 - Pre-Fall diet, vegetarian??
Deuteronomy 12:15, 20 - Israelites may eat meat
Proverbs 12:10 - ethical treatment of animals
Mark 7:18-19: "Are you so dull? He asked. "Don't you see that nothing that enters a person from the outside can defile them? For it doesn't go into their heart but their stomach, and then out their body" (In saying this, Jesus declared all foods clean).
Luke 12:24 - humans are more valuable in God's eyes than animals are
1 Timothy 4:1-5 - humans can eat animals
Isaiah 11:6 - the wolf, the lamb & the child
Animal Rights
Rights/Duties
Sentient Rights
Genesis 1:26, 9:1-7 Divine image bearers exercising dominion
Genesis 2:16-17 - Pre-Fall diet, vegetarian??
Deuteronomy 12:15, 20 - Israelites may eat meat
Proverbs 12:10 - ethical treatment of animals
Mark 7:18-19: "Are you so dull? He asked. "Don't you see that nothing that enters a person from the outside can defile them? For it doesn't go into their heart but their stomach, and then out their body" (In saying this, Jesus declared all foods clean).
Luke 12:24 - humans are more valuable in God's eyes than animals are
1 Timothy 4:1-5 - humans can eat animals
Isaiah 11:6 - the wolf, the lamb & the child
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
Framework on abortion discussion
(Originally Written on March 21, 2006 in 3 Subject)
Contemporary Issues of Philosophy
Topic 7: Abortion
Introduction: The psychology of language
Pro-Choice:
1. Strong
-No restrictions
-an absolute right to have an abortion
2. Weak
-restrictions on pregnancy stage
-restrictions on motive
-restrictions on consent
-restrictions on notification
Pro-Life
1. Strong
-no exceptions
-always morally wrong to have an abortion
2. Weak
-exceptions involving life of the mother
-exceptions involving rape
-exceptions involving incest
Legal Background of Abortion
-Roe v. Wade
-Webster v. Reproductive Services
-Planned Parenthood v. Casey
Biblical Overview
-Exodus 21: 10 Commandments
-Genesis 4
-Job 3:3
-Isaiah
-Psalms
-Luke
Contemporary Issues of Philosophy
Topic 7: Abortion
Introduction: The psychology of language
Pro-Choice:
1. Strong
-No restrictions
-an absolute right to have an abortion
2. Weak
-restrictions on pregnancy stage
-restrictions on motive
-restrictions on consent
-restrictions on notification
Pro-Life
1. Strong
-no exceptions
-always morally wrong to have an abortion
2. Weak
-exceptions involving life of the mother
-exceptions involving rape
-exceptions involving incest
Legal Background of Abortion
-Roe v. Wade
-Webster v. Reproductive Services
-Planned Parenthood v. Casey
Biblical Overview
-Exodus 21: 10 Commandments
-Genesis 4
-Job 3:3
-Isaiah
-Psalms
-Luke
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
Christology and Christological Heresies
(Originally Written March 15, 2006 in 3 Subject)
New Testament Christology
Functional Titles of Jesus
1) Past work (Jesus of History)
-Prophet: 'anointed' office #1
-Servant of God (Isaiah 53)
2) Future work (Return of Christ)
-King: 'anointed' office #2
-Son of Man: will judge the Nations (Daniel 7:13-14)
3) Present work (The ascended Christ)
-Priest: 'anointed' office #3 (Hebrews)
-Lord over all: (Philippians 2:9-11)
4) Pre-Existence of Christ
-Word (logos) of God (John 1:1-3, 14)
-Creator = Redeemer
-God, "I AM" is mentioned 7 times in John and in Titus 2:13
Christological Controversies (100-325 A.D.)
Gnosticism - Cerinthus & the Docetists
Cerinthus - divides Jesus from Christ. The Christ Spirit arrives when Jesus the man is baptized and leaves at the moment of Jesus' crucifixion. Jesus the man dies but the Christ spirit does not. In between Jesus the man is possessed of the Christ Spirit and does the ministry of Christ Jesus.
Docetism - Jesus only seems (dokeo) human. There was not an actual incarnation
Adoptionism - Jesus is not God, but was adopted by God
New Testament Christology
Functional Titles of Jesus
1) Past work (Jesus of History)
-Prophet: 'anointed' office #1
-Servant of God (Isaiah 53)
2) Future work (Return of Christ)
-King: 'anointed' office #2
-Son of Man: will judge the Nations (Daniel 7:13-14)
3) Present work (The ascended Christ)
-Priest: 'anointed' office #3 (Hebrews)
-Lord over all: (Philippians 2:9-11)
4) Pre-Existence of Christ
-Word (logos) of God (John 1:1-3, 14)
-Creator = Redeemer
-God, "I AM" is mentioned 7 times in John and in Titus 2:13
Christological Controversies (100-325 A.D.)
Gnosticism - Cerinthus & the Docetists
Cerinthus - divides Jesus from Christ. The Christ Spirit arrives when Jesus the man is baptized and leaves at the moment of Jesus' crucifixion. Jesus the man dies but the Christ spirit does not. In between Jesus the man is possessed of the Christ Spirit and does the ministry of Christ Jesus.
Docetism - Jesus only seems (dokeo) human. There was not an actual incarnation
Adoptionism - Jesus is not God, but was adopted by God
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Notes on the Introduction to Acts
(Originally written January 12, 2006 in Book 20)
Matthew - Jewish Audience
Mark - Roman Audience
Rabbinic Debate: Shammai vs. Hillel
Shammai - Deuteronomy 24:1 Divorce for adultery
Hillel - Deuteronomy 24:1 Divorce for any cause
Jesus replies with Genesis 1:27 & 2:24
Crucifixion of Jesus
Saturday - Anointment of Jesus by Mary
Sunday - Triumphal entry
Monday - Curses the fig tree (again) and changes the Temple
Tuesday - See the fig tree withered, Jesus argues with religious leaders, Jesus goes to the Mount of Olives and tells the disciples of the signs of the End
Wednesday - inactive
Thursday: Last Supper in Mark's mother's house. Jesus arrested and taken to the Sanhedrin
5 Precautions taken in case that Jesus would not rise from the Dead
1) Prepared in accordance with Jewish burial customs
2) Placed in a new tomb "cut out of the rock"
3) A "Big Stone", "Extremely large" was rolled in front of the tomb's entrance
4) Roman Guard was place in front of the tomb (probably four men)
5) Seal of Rome placed on the entrance of the tomb
Introduction to Acts
Acts 1:8 gives the outline of the Book of Acts
I. The Witness in Jerusalem 1:1-6:7
II. The Witness in All Judea and Samaria 6:8-9:21
III. The Witness to the Ends of the Earth 9:32-28:31
-Antioch (Syria) * Antioch is the missionary church 9:32-12:24
-Asia Minor 12:25-16:5
-Aegean (Greece) 16:16-19:20
-Rome 19:21-28:31
"Progress Report" Refrains in Acts
6:7, 9:31, 12:24, 19:20, 20:31
Acts 8-12
8:1-3 The Church is being persecuted in Jerusalem and the members scattered. Stephen was buried while Saul tries to destroy the church.
8:4-8 Wherever the scattered members went they preached. Philip went to Samaria and cast out demons, healed and taught. There was great joy in the city.
8:9-25 Philip is preaching in Samaria when a sorcerer believed and is baptized. Peter and John came out to Samaria to bring them the Holy Spirit. The sorcerer offers to pay Peter and John to teach him the power. They rebuke him for his wicked and sinful heart, trying to buy God's grace.
8:26-40 Philip goes down to the road and hears an Ethiopian reading from Isaiah. Philip explained what the passage means to the man. Philip baptizes the Ethiopian eunuch and then he is taken away by the Spirit.
Matthew - Jewish Audience
Mark - Roman Audience
Rabbinic Debate: Shammai vs. Hillel
Shammai - Deuteronomy 24:1 Divorce for adultery
Hillel - Deuteronomy 24:1 Divorce for any cause
Jesus replies with Genesis 1:27 & 2:24
Crucifixion of Jesus
Saturday - Anointment of Jesus by Mary
Sunday - Triumphal entry
Monday - Curses the fig tree (again) and changes the Temple
Tuesday - See the fig tree withered, Jesus argues with religious leaders, Jesus goes to the Mount of Olives and tells the disciples of the signs of the End
Wednesday - inactive
Thursday: Last Supper in Mark's mother's house. Jesus arrested and taken to the Sanhedrin
5 Precautions taken in case that Jesus would not rise from the Dead
1) Prepared in accordance with Jewish burial customs
2) Placed in a new tomb "cut out of the rock"
3) A "Big Stone", "Extremely large" was rolled in front of the tomb's entrance
4) Roman Guard was place in front of the tomb (probably four men)
5) Seal of Rome placed on the entrance of the tomb
Introduction to Acts
Acts 1:8 gives the outline of the Book of Acts
I. The Witness in Jerusalem 1:1-6:7
II. The Witness in All Judea and Samaria 6:8-9:21
III. The Witness to the Ends of the Earth 9:32-28:31
-Antioch (Syria) * Antioch is the missionary church 9:32-12:24
-Asia Minor 12:25-16:5
-Aegean (Greece) 16:16-19:20
-Rome 19:21-28:31
"Progress Report" Refrains in Acts
6:7, 9:31, 12:24, 19:20, 20:31
Acts 8-12
8:1-3 The Church is being persecuted in Jerusalem and the members scattered. Stephen was buried while Saul tries to destroy the church.
8:4-8 Wherever the scattered members went they preached. Philip went to Samaria and cast out demons, healed and taught. There was great joy in the city.
8:9-25 Philip is preaching in Samaria when a sorcerer believed and is baptized. Peter and John came out to Samaria to bring them the Holy Spirit. The sorcerer offers to pay Peter and John to teach him the power. They rebuke him for his wicked and sinful heart, trying to buy God's grace.
8:26-40 Philip goes down to the road and hears an Ethiopian reading from Isaiah. Philip explained what the passage means to the man. Philip baptizes the Ethiopian eunuch and then he is taken away by the Spirit.
Sunday, July 17, 2005
Isaiah 55-66 & prayer
(Originally written July 17, 2005 in Talks With God)
I have been reading Isaiah 55-61 when I got to 62:1. "For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, for Jerusalem's sake I will not remain quiet, till her righteousness shines out like the dawn, her salvation like a blazing torch." Lord, through these last chapters you have been telling Israel of all these new nations who will go to Zion and work for your glory. You tell me in 56:3, that I (a foreigner) who has and continues to bind myself to you (the Lord) can not say, "surely the Lord will exclude me from His people" in truth! Lord, I bind myself to you today as I have recently in other words. Surely, you will include me in your people.
I feel incredible peace when you are with me. I am in Zion; I am in Jerusalem when I am serving you. I pray and beg you for your mercy! I beg and pray you will speak to me as you promised in Isaiah 62:1. I asked for righteousness many times recently. Isaiah 62:1 assures me that you are answering prayer! I love you Lord! You are all to me! You have become my only refuge in this place. I will run to you in fear, in sadness, in joy and in praise for all of my days.
I will fall short Lord. This breaks my heart. No one knows me, no one cares for me, no one loves me like you do. I wish I could say the same for my knowing, caring and loving for you, but, I can't because I'm not good enough. I'm not good enough for you.
But you, you draw me back because I have no where else to turn to. You are the only never failing comforter, father, king, savior and God. I want to be faithful to you and love you the way you love me. I simply cannot do it and I am sorry. I offer you this imperfect love of mine, in the hope that you will make it perfect. I will fail, but through your strength I will return and pay restitution for my failings.
Isaiah 65:9 (prayer verse) "Do not be angry beyond measure, O Lord; do not remember our sins forever. Oh, look upon us, we pray, for we are all your people".
Isaiah 66:2b (goal verse) "This is the one I esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word"
Lord, Isaiah has been read. Lord why must I, like the Israelites suffer so greatly? I know it is so that you can shine so incredibly bright. I am not extremely happy about this suffering, though I know I should be. Help me to rejoice in suffering, for I know it leads to perseverance, character and to hope, which comes from you and does not disappoint. I have seen it work. I have seen it work in me this summer. I have more hope than I have had since working at Miracle Camp. I have felt the Holy Spirit more this summer, then the years since working at Miracle Camp.
Is it that I am rejoicing in suffering, but not in the rejoicing that is earthly? Grant me your wisdom Lord. Let all that I have read in Isaiah this month stick. As I continue to read your word, impart more wisdom, but do not let it replace this you have granted me. Hear my prayer oh God. I love you!.
I have been reading Isaiah 55-61 when I got to 62:1. "For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, for Jerusalem's sake I will not remain quiet, till her righteousness shines out like the dawn, her salvation like a blazing torch." Lord, through these last chapters you have been telling Israel of all these new nations who will go to Zion and work for your glory. You tell me in 56:3, that I (a foreigner) who has and continues to bind myself to you (the Lord) can not say, "surely the Lord will exclude me from His people" in truth! Lord, I bind myself to you today as I have recently in other words. Surely, you will include me in your people.
I feel incredible peace when you are with me. I am in Zion; I am in Jerusalem when I am serving you. I pray and beg you for your mercy! I beg and pray you will speak to me as you promised in Isaiah 62:1. I asked for righteousness many times recently. Isaiah 62:1 assures me that you are answering prayer! I love you Lord! You are all to me! You have become my only refuge in this place. I will run to you in fear, in sadness, in joy and in praise for all of my days.
I will fall short Lord. This breaks my heart. No one knows me, no one cares for me, no one loves me like you do. I wish I could say the same for my knowing, caring and loving for you, but, I can't because I'm not good enough. I'm not good enough for you.
But you, you draw me back because I have no where else to turn to. You are the only never failing comforter, father, king, savior and God. I want to be faithful to you and love you the way you love me. I simply cannot do it and I am sorry. I offer you this imperfect love of mine, in the hope that you will make it perfect. I will fail, but through your strength I will return and pay restitution for my failings.
Isaiah 65:9 (prayer verse) "Do not be angry beyond measure, O Lord; do not remember our sins forever. Oh, look upon us, we pray, for we are all your people".
Isaiah 66:2b (goal verse) "This is the one I esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word"
Lord, Isaiah has been read. Lord why must I, like the Israelites suffer so greatly? I know it is so that you can shine so incredibly bright. I am not extremely happy about this suffering, though I know I should be. Help me to rejoice in suffering, for I know it leads to perseverance, character and to hope, which comes from you and does not disappoint. I have seen it work. I have seen it work in me this summer. I have more hope than I have had since working at Miracle Camp. I have felt the Holy Spirit more this summer, then the years since working at Miracle Camp.
Is it that I am rejoicing in suffering, but not in the rejoicing that is earthly? Grant me your wisdom Lord. Let all that I have read in Isaiah this month stick. As I continue to read your word, impart more wisdom, but do not let it replace this you have granted me. Hear my prayer oh God. I love you!.
Saturday, July 16, 2005
Isaiah 54 & a prayer
(Originally written July 16, 2005 in Talks With God)
Today started miserable. Everything sucked and I started to give up on the day, but then you stepped in. My attitude was lifted and you picked me up. Theodore Roosevelt said, 'don't pray for a lighter load, pray for a stronger back'. Lord, make that my prayer for the rest of the summer. Give me strength as you did today, to get through these final weeks. Give me strength from Isaiah today.
Isaiah 54
You turned away from me these past years because I was disobedient. Make me now as Israel and return your 'unfailing love' to me. Not because my works deserve it, but because of your enormous grace.
Pour out your spirit on me. Overflow me so I can spill it into the world. Help me to choose good, right and pure over evil and sin. Create in me a clean heart. Renew a right spirit within me. Hear my prayer, king of kings, my God.
Lord I truly am enjoying our time spent in this book. This dialogue from you to me has been the best thing to happen to me in ages. As I continue after this summer convict me to continue. Keep your firm grasp upon me. I love you Lord!
Today started miserable. Everything sucked and I started to give up on the day, but then you stepped in. My attitude was lifted and you picked me up. Theodore Roosevelt said, 'don't pray for a lighter load, pray for a stronger back'. Lord, make that my prayer for the rest of the summer. Give me strength as you did today, to get through these final weeks. Give me strength from Isaiah today.
Isaiah 54
You turned away from me these past years because I was disobedient. Make me now as Israel and return your 'unfailing love' to me. Not because my works deserve it, but because of your enormous grace.
Pour out your spirit on me. Overflow me so I can spill it into the world. Help me to choose good, right and pure over evil and sin. Create in me a clean heart. Renew a right spirit within me. Hear my prayer, king of kings, my God.
Lord I truly am enjoying our time spent in this book. This dialogue from you to me has been the best thing to happen to me in ages. As I continue after this summer convict me to continue. Keep your firm grasp upon me. I love you Lord!
Friday, July 15, 2005
Isaiah 49-52 & a prayer
(Originally written July 15, 2005 in Talks With God)
The summer is almost over. I am ready to leave! Help me Lord to stay focused on you and on the task at hand. Help me not to slip away or look ahead too much. Keep teaching me in your word.
Isaiah 49-52
Isaiah 50:4 "The sovereign Lord has given me an instructed tongue to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ears to listen like one being taught".
It's amazing Lord, long before you sent Jesus you prophesied it through Isaiah. You answered prayers for the Jews and you answered un-prayed prayers of the Gentiles. You gave us understanding and knowledge of that we did not know. You gave us salvation from an enemy we did not know. You looked out for us while we bathed in sin. Your mercy knows no bounds.
Lord I want to be close to you. You have given me son-ship and servanthood in your house. You have made me a brother to Christ. Use me as you will, but let me draw closer to you. Make me as Isaiah in 50:4. Give me an instructed tongue and an ear so tuned to you, you wake me up every morning. Lord I desire to know more of your nature and draw closer to you. Grant me more wisdom day by day as I read your word. Bless me if I am obedient. Break me if I am not. Hear me oh my master, my father. Holy is your name. Holy are you. Glory be yours forever.
The summer is almost over. I am ready to leave! Help me Lord to stay focused on you and on the task at hand. Help me not to slip away or look ahead too much. Keep teaching me in your word.
Isaiah 49-52
Isaiah 50:4 "The sovereign Lord has given me an instructed tongue to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ears to listen like one being taught".
It's amazing Lord, long before you sent Jesus you prophesied it through Isaiah. You answered prayers for the Jews and you answered un-prayed prayers of the Gentiles. You gave us understanding and knowledge of that we did not know. You gave us salvation from an enemy we did not know. You looked out for us while we bathed in sin. Your mercy knows no bounds.
Lord I want to be close to you. You have given me son-ship and servanthood in your house. You have made me a brother to Christ. Use me as you will, but let me draw closer to you. Make me as Isaiah in 50:4. Give me an instructed tongue and an ear so tuned to you, you wake me up every morning. Lord I desire to know more of your nature and draw closer to you. Grant me more wisdom day by day as I read your word. Bless me if I am obedient. Break me if I am not. Hear me oh my master, my father. Holy is your name. Holy are you. Glory be yours forever.
Tuesday, July 12, 2005
Isaiah 45:8 & a prayer
(Originally written July 12, 2005 in Talks With God)
Lord this will be the second day that I will not have spent substantial time with you. Please forgive for that.
Isaiah 45:8 "You heavens above, rain down my righteousness; let the clouds shower it down. Let the earth open wide, let salvation spring up, let righteousness flourish with it; I, the Lord, have created it".
Pour it on me so that I may soak in some. Even the tiniest amount from you will overflow out of me. Make me your servant. Hear my prayers oh my master, my king, my God!
Lord this will be the second day that I will not have spent substantial time with you. Please forgive for that.
Isaiah 45:8 "You heavens above, rain down my righteousness; let the clouds shower it down. Let the earth open wide, let salvation spring up, let righteousness flourish with it; I, the Lord, have created it".
Pour it on me so that I may soak in some. Even the tiniest amount from you will overflow out of me. Make me your servant. Hear my prayers oh my master, my king, my God!
Sunday, July 10, 2005
Romans 1-7 & a prayer
(Originally written July 10, 2005 in Talks With God)
I believe you have answered my prayer! I will talk to Zack about a position for evenings and weekends. If this is not your will for me to work, close that door. Thank you Lord.
I was really moved by the sermon this morning. God you are glorious. You are amazing and I am in awe of you. I truly love you with all of my heart, not only in words. I have a deep, burning desire to serve you. Back in a moment, but first...
But even with that desire I am faulty. I have a hard time controlling my impulses. Help me to overcome my impulses. Lord I am willing but I am weak. Help me and please forgive me of my sins. I know sin has consequences and I am willing to accept mine. Forgive me Lord.
Back to this morning's message though. I am inspired to read Romans. I will split time between it and Isaiah if you don't object. I love you Lord.
Romans 2:29b "Such a man's praise is not from men, but from God"
Lord let me not seek praise from men, but let me seek glory for the kingdom of Heaven. This way I can have my reward in Heaven. I seek riches and praise and I desire glory and honor. But let me receive such things from you. For as man's knowledge and wisdom is foolishness to you, so are such things. Money, power and authority are temporary. Let me live a life that warrants glory for you and eternal life for me.
Romans 3:23-24 "For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus".
Lord, I am full of sin. I fall short of your glory on a daily basis. Your grace is what gets me through day by day. Every breath is a gift from you. Let me lean on you for strength and redemption. Let me prosper so that the kingdom of Heaven may grow. Make me as Paul in this verse:
Romans 1:1 "Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God"
Let it be written in your heart that I can be a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be a disciple of the Almighty God and set apart for the will of God. Let it be written in your eternal heart, not for my sake, but for the sake of your Holy Name. Let it be a glorious victory over evil for you. For you have called a wicked man, such as me, out of sin. Let it be known on this day, July 10, 2005 that I have answered your call the same call given to Abraham thousands of years ago. I will serve the true Lord. I lay my life down at your feet. I sacrifice my hopes, desires and dreams to do your work. Not for my glory will work be done, but for the Glory of God.
Romans 5:3-5 "Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance, character and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."
Thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit. It is because of Him that I will not only accept but rejoice in suffering. All of my life I have induced my own suffering. Had it not been for my foolish decisions I would not be humble enough to accept my calling of servitude. Without the Holy Spirit, I would be a bitter, bitter person. I have suffered so little compared to some but it is enough to have put me on my knees. And instead of laying down in defeat you have raised me up for victory. This accomplishment is not mine, but fully and only yours. I am excited to see more victories for you and ready to learn from my own failings. If I were not so imperfect Lord you could accomplish so much through me. Not for my glory but for yours. Help me to become more righteous so that the kingdom of Heaven can be more glorified.
Lord I am shaking with nervous excitement over your Word. I can barely hold it in. I live through Jesus who lives eternally! Sin lives in me, but I have died to sin. Because of the grace given to me, by Jesus christ I am alive and well! The sin in me will never die, but I will die to sin, so that I can live in righteousness. I cannot do what I want to do, which is good, because the sin is stronger than me. But I do what is good because He who dwells in me (Jesus Christ) is stronger than me and has defeated sin. All the good that is accomplished through my wretched body is because the Holy Spirit, given to me by Jesus Christ, is shining through the darkness of my sin. Keep peeling away the darkness of sin in my life so that I may be transparent and the light of the Holy Spirit can fully shine in me. Accomplish your goals, win your victories, shine your eternal light! I will fail and sin will overtake me, but you who have shown grace to me are stronger than the sin that plagues me. I will strive to follow the Holy Spirit so that I can be made righteous. By being righteous you will win many victories through me. I, in the flesh, am not fit to do your work, but the Holy Spirit, whom you have sent to me can accomplish great things. Use my body as a vessel to achieve your glory. I am ready to be pruned and stripped of iniquities, however painful the process may be. Give me strength to stand through this. Grant me courage to pursue this. Grant me your wisdom to continue to ask for what seems painful.
I believe you have answered my prayer! I will talk to Zack about a position for evenings and weekends. If this is not your will for me to work, close that door. Thank you Lord.
I was really moved by the sermon this morning. God you are glorious. You are amazing and I am in awe of you. I truly love you with all of my heart, not only in words. I have a deep, burning desire to serve you. Back in a moment, but first...
But even with that desire I am faulty. I have a hard time controlling my impulses. Help me to overcome my impulses. Lord I am willing but I am weak. Help me and please forgive me of my sins. I know sin has consequences and I am willing to accept mine. Forgive me Lord.
Back to this morning's message though. I am inspired to read Romans. I will split time between it and Isaiah if you don't object. I love you Lord.
Romans 2:29b "Such a man's praise is not from men, but from God"
Lord let me not seek praise from men, but let me seek glory for the kingdom of Heaven. This way I can have my reward in Heaven. I seek riches and praise and I desire glory and honor. But let me receive such things from you. For as man's knowledge and wisdom is foolishness to you, so are such things. Money, power and authority are temporary. Let me live a life that warrants glory for you and eternal life for me.
Romans 3:23-24 "For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus".
Lord, I am full of sin. I fall short of your glory on a daily basis. Your grace is what gets me through day by day. Every breath is a gift from you. Let me lean on you for strength and redemption. Let me prosper so that the kingdom of Heaven may grow. Make me as Paul in this verse:
Romans 1:1 "Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God"
Let it be written in your heart that I can be a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be a disciple of the Almighty God and set apart for the will of God. Let it be written in your eternal heart, not for my sake, but for the sake of your Holy Name. Let it be a glorious victory over evil for you. For you have called a wicked man, such as me, out of sin. Let it be known on this day, July 10, 2005 that I have answered your call the same call given to Abraham thousands of years ago. I will serve the true Lord. I lay my life down at your feet. I sacrifice my hopes, desires and dreams to do your work. Not for my glory will work be done, but for the Glory of God.
Romans 5:3-5 "Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance, character and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."
Thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit. It is because of Him that I will not only accept but rejoice in suffering. All of my life I have induced my own suffering. Had it not been for my foolish decisions I would not be humble enough to accept my calling of servitude. Without the Holy Spirit, I would be a bitter, bitter person. I have suffered so little compared to some but it is enough to have put me on my knees. And instead of laying down in defeat you have raised me up for victory. This accomplishment is not mine, but fully and only yours. I am excited to see more victories for you and ready to learn from my own failings. If I were not so imperfect Lord you could accomplish so much through me. Not for my glory but for yours. Help me to become more righteous so that the kingdom of Heaven can be more glorified.
Lord I am shaking with nervous excitement over your Word. I can barely hold it in. I live through Jesus who lives eternally! Sin lives in me, but I have died to sin. Because of the grace given to me, by Jesus christ I am alive and well! The sin in me will never die, but I will die to sin, so that I can live in righteousness. I cannot do what I want to do, which is good, because the sin is stronger than me. But I do what is good because He who dwells in me (Jesus Christ) is stronger than me and has defeated sin. All the good that is accomplished through my wretched body is because the Holy Spirit, given to me by Jesus Christ, is shining through the darkness of my sin. Keep peeling away the darkness of sin in my life so that I may be transparent and the light of the Holy Spirit can fully shine in me. Accomplish your goals, win your victories, shine your eternal light! I will fail and sin will overtake me, but you who have shown grace to me are stronger than the sin that plagues me. I will strive to follow the Holy Spirit so that I can be made righteous. By being righteous you will win many victories through me. I, in the flesh, am not fit to do your work, but the Holy Spirit, whom you have sent to me can accomplish great things. Use my body as a vessel to achieve your glory. I am ready to be pruned and stripped of iniquities, however painful the process may be. Give me strength to stand through this. Grant me courage to pursue this. Grant me your wisdom to continue to ask for what seems painful.
Saturday, July 9, 2005
Isaiah 41-44 & a prayer
(Originally written July 9, 2005 in Talks With God)
Today I will praise you because you are good to me. Today I will praise you because of Isaiah 40:31.
Isaiah 40:31 "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint."
Lord, I am weary and I am faint. I want and will hope in you. Please renew my strength. Lord, how am I supposed to just swallow my pride when he is ineffective and inefficient in his methodology? Do all have to suffer because of his power lust? Help me Lord; guide me through this hardship.
Isaiah 41-44
You are the one true God. I will worship only you. You bring me an peace, a peace that I cannot attain from anywhere else. A peace that I cannot understand or explain. I will worship you until the end of my days. For as you were, you are, and will forever be. Your glory is infinite; your wisdom is eternal. My knowledge is but dust to yours. Fill me with your Spirit so you may call me your servant. Make me as Abraham call me your friend. I will always call you my king and will serve no one else. I will love you like I love nothing else.
Lord, make me clean. I am filthy and unfit to carry water for you. Make me clean and worthy to serve you. But Lord, I am lonely. I am like Adam before Eve and am in need of a companion. Please send her to me or I to her. I am ready for this, if it is in your will. If it is in your will please bless me with a beautiful, wonderful and most importantly, a godly wife. If it is not in your will then take away my desire for this because I only want to desire what you desire.
Lord take away this heat! I am suffocating! Please allow me to wake in the morning fully rested and ready to serve you. Take away my feeling crummy and my crummy attitude. I love you Lord. Thank you for listening to even my frivolous prayers.
Today I will praise you because you are good to me. Today I will praise you because of Isaiah 40:31.
Isaiah 40:31 "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint."
Lord, I am weary and I am faint. I want and will hope in you. Please renew my strength. Lord, how am I supposed to just swallow my pride when he is ineffective and inefficient in his methodology? Do all have to suffer because of his power lust? Help me Lord; guide me through this hardship.
Isaiah 41-44
You are the one true God. I will worship only you. You bring me an peace, a peace that I cannot attain from anywhere else. A peace that I cannot understand or explain. I will worship you until the end of my days. For as you were, you are, and will forever be. Your glory is infinite; your wisdom is eternal. My knowledge is but dust to yours. Fill me with your Spirit so you may call me your servant. Make me as Abraham call me your friend. I will always call you my king and will serve no one else. I will love you like I love nothing else.
Lord, make me clean. I am filthy and unfit to carry water for you. Make me clean and worthy to serve you. But Lord, I am lonely. I am like Adam before Eve and am in need of a companion. Please send her to me or I to her. I am ready for this, if it is in your will. If it is in your will please bless me with a beautiful, wonderful and most importantly, a godly wife. If it is not in your will then take away my desire for this because I only want to desire what you desire.
Lord take away this heat! I am suffocating! Please allow me to wake in the morning fully rested and ready to serve you. Take away my feeling crummy and my crummy attitude. I love you Lord. Thank you for listening to even my frivolous prayers.
Friday, July 8, 2005
Isaiah 34-40 & a prayer
(Originally written July 8, 2005 in Talks With God)
Will you bless me this semester? I am will to put forth the effort needed to be a top student at Taylor and I am willing to continue to grow at NHA. Is it possible for me to do both? Is it your will?
I have a lot of issues still to work out in my life. The balance of Taylor and NHA could provide a chance for me to grow, but if it is not your will then please show me what is. Lord I love you and I love these kids. If it is your will make it known. If it is not then close the door. Give me guidance.
Isaiah 35:4 "Say to those with fearful hearts, 'be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution. He will come to save you".
Isaiah 35:8-10 "And a highway will be there; it will be called the Way of Holiness. The unclean will not journey on it; it will be for those who walk in the Way; wicked fools will not go about it. No lion will be there, nor will any ferocious beast get up on it, they will not be found there. But only the redeemed will walk there, and the ransomed of the Lord will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will will overtake them and sorrow and sighing will flee away.
Thursday, July 7, 2005
Isaiah 31-33 & a prayer
(Originally Written July 7, 2005 in Talks With God)
Isaiah 32:8 "But the noble man makes noble plans, and by noble deeds he stands".
Isaiah 33:22 "For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our law giver, the Lord is our king; it is He who will save us".
Isaiah 33:24 "No one living in Zion will say, 'I am ill' and the sins of those who dwell there will be forgiven."
Lord the three previous verses speak to me right now. Thank you for sharing your wisdom with me. If I am ever given one wish it is to be wise as you granted it to Solomon.
From Isaiah 32:8 - Help me to be noble and make noble plans. Help me to fulfill those plans by doing what is noble and pure.
From Isaiah 33:22 - You are all to me Lord. And I am glad. I know I need nothing other than you.
From Isaiah 33:24 - Help me to live in Zion! Wash away my sins and forgive me.
Lord, Help me to live out those three verses in my daily life. I want to be a living testament and sacrifice to you. Help me to start with these verses. Lord you are all I ever need - remind me of this constantly. Help me and guide me to Zion, so I can dwell where you desire me to. Help me to be where you will show your grace and mercy. Mold me into a noble man. Help me to be noble and pure. Guide me Lord; this is my prayer.
Isaiah 32:8 "But the noble man makes noble plans, and by noble deeds he stands".
Isaiah 33:22 "For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our law giver, the Lord is our king; it is He who will save us".
Isaiah 33:24 "No one living in Zion will say, 'I am ill' and the sins of those who dwell there will be forgiven."
Lord the three previous verses speak to me right now. Thank you for sharing your wisdom with me. If I am ever given one wish it is to be wise as you granted it to Solomon.
From Isaiah 32:8 - Help me to be noble and make noble plans. Help me to fulfill those plans by doing what is noble and pure.
From Isaiah 33:22 - You are all to me Lord. And I am glad. I know I need nothing other than you.
From Isaiah 33:24 - Help me to live in Zion! Wash away my sins and forgive me.
Lord, Help me to live out those three verses in my daily life. I want to be a living testament and sacrifice to you. Help me to start with these verses. Lord you are all I ever need - remind me of this constantly. Help me and guide me to Zion, so I can dwell where you desire me to. Help me to be where you will show your grace and mercy. Mold me into a noble man. Help me to be noble and pure. Guide me Lord; this is my prayer.
Wednesday, July 6, 2005
Isaiah 30 & a prayer
(Originally written July 6, 2005 in Talks with God)
Lord I am starting to feel complacent in my role and I am starting to get comfortable and I am pushing boundaries. Stretch me more so that I am not comfortable and I don't push your limits.
I am in sin. Help me Lord and pull me up. Do not abandon me. Hear my plea for help. I want to serve you in all I do and I cannot do this alone. I need and want you to help. Hear my cry Lord as you have heard countless cries before. Make me an effective tool for your work. You didn't make me ordinary, help me achieve extraordinary things for you.
Isaiah 30:19-22
"O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious He will be when you cry for help! As soon as He hears, He will answer you. Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will se them. Whether you turn to the right or to the left your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it". Then you will defile your idols overlaid with silver and your images covered with gold. You will throw them away like a menstrual cloth and say to them, "away with you!
"
Lord I am starting to feel complacent in my role and I am starting to get comfortable and I am pushing boundaries. Stretch me more so that I am not comfortable and I don't push your limits.
I am in sin. Help me Lord and pull me up. Do not abandon me. Hear my plea for help. I want to serve you in all I do and I cannot do this alone. I need and want you to help. Hear my cry Lord as you have heard countless cries before. Make me an effective tool for your work. You didn't make me ordinary, help me achieve extraordinary things for you.
Isaiah 30:19-22
"O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious He will be when you cry for help! As soon as He hears, He will answer you. Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will se them. Whether you turn to the right or to the left your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it". Then you will defile your idols overlaid with silver and your images covered with gold. You will throw them away like a menstrual cloth and say to them, "away with you!
"
Tuesday, July 5, 2005
Isaiah 28-29 & prayer
(Originally July 5, 2005 in Talks With God)
Lord forgive me for living in sin. As I write you I sin, but I am too weak and too insufficient to stop. Not that I was made that way, but because I haven't the will power to stop myself. Forgive me for lying yesterday. Lord, I am a wretched, wretched man. If not for the grace you abundantly and constantly show me I would be utterly and completely lost. If it is in your heart tonight please forgive me. I cannot promise that I won't make the same stupid mistake again, but I will promise that I will strive every day to be more Christlike and work to fulfill your plans. Help me to understand the reading tonight.
Isaiah 28-29
Lord, I am like Ephraim, staggering in drunkenness and filling the world with vomit. Everything I do is unclear because I am unclean. Lord make me clear so that I can please you with what I do. Take away my taste and appetite for self-destruction. Replace it with a burning desire to be holy and righteous and good. I desire you and aspire to be like you, but make it strong. Lord, humble me more so I can better worship you. Strip me of prideful iniquities, so I can better serve you. Remove the filth and stench of my sinful ways so that I can be a witness to your greatness. I am struck with awe and wonder and amazement so that when I begin to sin I am moved to stop and do what is good. Lord, this is my prayer. Please hear it.
Lord forgive me for living in sin. As I write you I sin, but I am too weak and too insufficient to stop. Not that I was made that way, but because I haven't the will power to stop myself. Forgive me for lying yesterday. Lord, I am a wretched, wretched man. If not for the grace you abundantly and constantly show me I would be utterly and completely lost. If it is in your heart tonight please forgive me. I cannot promise that I won't make the same stupid mistake again, but I will promise that I will strive every day to be more Christlike and work to fulfill your plans. Help me to understand the reading tonight.
Isaiah 28-29
Lord, I am like Ephraim, staggering in drunkenness and filling the world with vomit. Everything I do is unclear because I am unclean. Lord make me clear so that I can please you with what I do. Take away my taste and appetite for self-destruction. Replace it with a burning desire to be holy and righteous and good. I desire you and aspire to be like you, but make it strong. Lord, humble me more so I can better worship you. Strip me of prideful iniquities, so I can better serve you. Remove the filth and stench of my sinful ways so that I can be a witness to your greatness. I am struck with awe and wonder and amazement so that when I begin to sin I am moved to stop and do what is good. Lord, this is my prayer. Please hear it.
Sunday, July 3, 2005
Isaiah 21-27 & a pryer
(Originally written July 3, 2005 in Talks With God)
Isaiah 21-27
You destroyed nations that you had built up. You crushed mighty armies that you fortified. You smashed great cities you built. Why? Why go to all the work of creation of marvelous and fantastic things, if your plan is to destroy them?
You exalted and lifted me up. You gave me so much only to rip it away because of my sin. Without the taste for greatness you gave me I would not of continued on through mediocrity. Lord you built me and then broke me. I come to you a humbled man.
Rebuild me so that I am suitable to do the work you intend for me to do. If I am to be a mere tower to watch out for foes, make me be alert. If I am to be a wall and door to open for the righteousness and shut for the wicked then fortify me. If I am to be an empire, created to fulfill your work, equip me as you see fit. I pray to you humbly now. I asked for an ordinary life, but I am extraordinary because you made me that way. You and you alone deserve the glory for what you do with me. Keep me humble as I go through my extraordinary life. Today I give you the dream you gave to me before the heavens and earth were created. Take and do with it as you see fit. I will be faithful, but I need your faithfulness. I love and adore you. So much words cannot express it. Hear my prayer oh Holy & faithful one.
Isaiah 21-27
You destroyed nations that you had built up. You crushed mighty armies that you fortified. You smashed great cities you built. Why? Why go to all the work of creation of marvelous and fantastic things, if your plan is to destroy them?
You exalted and lifted me up. You gave me so much only to rip it away because of my sin. Without the taste for greatness you gave me I would not of continued on through mediocrity. Lord you built me and then broke me. I come to you a humbled man.
Rebuild me so that I am suitable to do the work you intend for me to do. If I am to be a mere tower to watch out for foes, make me be alert. If I am to be a wall and door to open for the righteousness and shut for the wicked then fortify me. If I am to be an empire, created to fulfill your work, equip me as you see fit. I pray to you humbly now. I asked for an ordinary life, but I am extraordinary because you made me that way. You and you alone deserve the glory for what you do with me. Keep me humble as I go through my extraordinary life. Today I give you the dream you gave to me before the heavens and earth were created. Take and do with it as you see fit. I will be faithful, but I need your faithfulness. I love and adore you. So much words cannot express it. Hear my prayer oh Holy & faithful one.
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