To help others we must get involved:

When Abram heard that his relative had been taken captive, he called out the 318 trained men in his household and went in pursuit as far as Dan. During the night Abram divided his men to attack them and he routed them, pursuing them as far as Hobah, north of Damascus.  He recovered all the goods and brought back his relative Lot and his possessions, together with the women and the other people. – Genesis 14.14-16

When Abram learned that Lot was a prisoner, he immediately tried to rescue his nephew. It is easier and safer not to become involved.  But with Lot in serious trouble, Abram acted at once.  Sometimes we must get involved in a messy or painful situation in order to help others.  We should be willing to act immediately when others need our help.

(These incidents portray two of Abram’s characteristics: (1) He had courage that came from God. Facing a powerful foe, he attacked.  (2) He was prepared.  He had taken time to train him men for a potential conflict.  We never know when we will be called upon to complete difficult tasks.  Like Abram, we should prepare for those times and take courage from God when they come).

Nothing too hard for God’s help:

Is anything too hard for the LORD? I will return to you at the appointed time next year and Sarah will have a son.” – Genesis 18.14

“Is anything too hard for the LORD?” The obvious answer is, “Of course not!”  This question reveals much about God.  Make it a habit to insert your specific needs into the question.  “Is this day in my life too hard for the LORD?”  “Is this habit I’m trying to break too hard for him?”  “Is the communication problem I’m having too hard for him?”  Asking the question this way reminds you that God is personally involved in your life and nudges you to ask for his power to help you.

Are you willing to let God help you?

Then the LORD’s anger burned against Moses and he said, “What about your brother, Aaron the Levite? I know he can speak well.  He is already on his way to meet you, and his heart will be glad when he sees you. – Exodus 4.14

God finally agreed to let Aaron speak for Moses. Moses’ feelings of inadequacy were so strong that he could not trust even God’s ability to help him.  Moses had to deal with his deep sense of inadequacy many times.  When we face difficult or frightening situations, we must be willing to let God help us.

God’s laws designed to help, not restrain us:

“ ‘Keep all my decrees and laws and follow them, so that the land where I am bringing you to live may not vomit you out. You must not live according to the customs of the nations I am going to drive out before you.  Because they did all these things, I abhorred them.  –  Leviticus 20.22-23

God gave many rules to his people but not without reason.  He did not withhold good from them; he only prohibited those acts that would bring them to ruin.  All of us understand God’s physical laws of nature.  For example, jumping off a ten-storey building means death because of the law of gravity.  But some of us don’t understand how God’s spiritual laws work.  God forbids us to do certain things because he wants to keep us from self-destruction.  Next time, you are drawn to a forbidden physical or emotional pleasure, remind yourself that its consequences might be suffering and separation from the God who is trying to help you.

Not all who offer spiritual help are sincere:

While Israel was staying in Shittim, the men began to indulge in sexual immorality with Moabite women, who invited them to the sacrifices to their gods. The people ate and bowed down before these gods.  So Israel joined in worshipping the Baal of Peor.  And the LORD’s anger burned against them.  –  Numbers 25.1-3

This combination of sexual sin and idolatry, it turns out, was Balaam’s idea (see 31.16; Revelation 2.14), the same Balaam who had just blessed Israel and who appeared to be on their side. It is easy to see how the Israelites were misled, for Balaam seemed to say and do all the right things – at least for a while (22-24).  Not until Balaam had inflicted great damage on them did the Israelites realise that he was greedy, used sorcery, and was deeply involved in pagan religious practices.  We must be careful to weigh both the words and the deeds of those who claim to offer spiritual help.

Help those who help you:

Then they came up to him and said, “We would like to build pens here for our livestock and cities for our women and children. But we are ready to arm ourselves and go ahead of the Israelites until we have brought them to their place.  Meanwhile our women and children will live in fortified cities, for protection from the inhabitants of the land.  We will not return to our homes until every Israelite has received his inheritance.  We will not receive any inheritance with them on the other side of the Jordan, because our inheritance has come to us on the east side of the Jordan.”  –  Numbers 32.16-19

The land on the east side of the Jordan River had been conquered. The hard work was done by all of the tribes together.  But the tribes of Reuben and Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh did not stop after their land was cleared.  They promised to keep working with the others until everyone’s land was conquered.  After others have helped you, do you make excuses to escape helping them?  Finish the whole job, even those parts that may not benefit you directly.

God’s help often comes gradually:

Do not be terrified by them, for the LORD your God, who is among you, is a great and awesome God. The LORD your God will drive out those nations before you, little by little.  You will not be allowed to eliminate them all at once, or the wild animals will multiply around you.  But the LORD your God will deliver them over to you, throwing them into great confusion until they are destroyed.  He will give their kings into your hand, and you will wipe out their names from under heaven.  No-one will be able to stand up against you; you will destroy them.  –  Deuteronomy 7.21-24

Moses told the Israelites that God would destroy Israel’s enemies, but not all at once. God had the power to destroy those nations instantly, but he chose to do it in stages.  In the same way and with the same power, God could miraculously and instantaneously change your life.  Usually, however, he chooses to help you gradually, teaching you one lesson at a time.  Rather than expecting instant spiritual maturity and solutions to all your problems, slow down and work one step at a time, trusting God to make up the difference between where you should be and where you are now.  You’ll soon look back and see that a miraculous transformation has occurred.

God helps us when we least expect it:

So he went to Zarephath. When he came to the town gate, a widow was there gathering sticks.  He called to her and asked, “Would you bring me a little water in a jar so I may have a drink?”  –  1 Kings 17.10ff

In a nation that was required by law to care for its prophets, it is ironic that God turned to ravens (unclean birds) and a widow (a foreigner from Jezebel’s home territory) to care for Elijah. God has help where we least expect it.  He provides for us in ways that go beyond our narrow definitions or expectations.  No matter how bitter our trials or how seemingly hopeless our situation, we should look for God’s caring touch.  We may find his providence in some strange places!

Don’t be afraid to ask others for:

I also said to him, “If it pleases the king, may I have letters to the governors of Trans-Euphrates, so that they will provide me safe-conduct until I arrive in Judah? And may I have a letter to Asaph, keeper of the king’s forest, so he will give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel by the temple and for the city wall and for the residence I will occupy?”  And because the gracious hand of my God was upon me, the king granted my requests.  –  Nehemiah 2.7-8

After his prayer, Nehemiah asked the king for permission to go to Judah. As soon as he got a positive answer, he began asking for additional help.  Sometimes when we have needs, we hesitate to ask the right people for help because we are afraid to approach them.  Not Nehemiah!  He went directly to the person who could help him the most.  Don’t be reluctant to ask those who are most able to help.  They may be more interested and approachable than you think.  God’s answers to prayer may come as a result of our asking others.

Why do you want God’s help without being willing to repent:

This is the word of the LORD to Jeremiah concerning the drought –  Jeremiah 14.1ff

Drought was a judgment with devastating consequences. As usual, when their backs were to the wall, the people cried out to God.  But God rejected their plea because they did not repent; they merely wanted his rescue.  Not even Jeremiah’s prayers would help.  Their only hope was to turn to God.

Why Jesus is qualified to help us:

This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. –  Matthew 1.18

Why is the virgin birth important to the Christian faith? Jesus Christ, God’s Son, had to be free from the sinful nature passed on to all other human beings by Adam.  Because Jesus was born of a woman, he was a human being; but as the Son of God, Jesus was born without any trace of human sin.  Jesus is both fully human and fully divine.

Because Jesus lived as a man, we know that he fully understands our experiences and struggles (Hebrews 4.15, 16). Because he is God, he has the power and authority to deliver us from sin (Colossians 2.13-15).  We can tell Jesus all our thoughts, feelings, and needs.  He has been where we are now, and he has the ability to help.

Jesus can help when no one else can:

When Jesus entered the ruler’s house and saw the flute players and the noisy crowd, he said, “Go away. The girl is not dead but asleep.”  But they laughed at him.  After the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took the girl by the hand, and she got up.  News of this spread through all that region.  – Matthew 9.23-26        

The synagogue ruler didn’t come to Jesus until his daughter was dead – it was too late for anyone else to help. But Jesus simply went to the girl and raised her!  In our lives, Christ can make a difference when it seems too late for anyone else to help.  He can bring healing to broken relationships, release from addiction, and forgiveness and healing to emotional scars.  If your situation looks hopeless, remember that Christ can do the impossible.

Do your convictions keep you from helping people?

…and a man with a shrivelled hand was there. Looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, they asked him, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?” 

He said to them, “If any of you has a sheep and it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will you not take hold of it and lift it out? How much more valuable is a man than a sheep!  Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.”  –  Matthew 12.10-12

The Pharisees placed their laws above human need. They were so concerned about Jesus breaking one of their rules that they did not care about the man’s shrivelled hand.  What is your attitude towards others?  If your convictions don’t allow you to help certain people, your convictions may not be in tune with God’s word.  Don’t allow dogma to blind you to human need.

Helping others is a priority:

The Lord answered him, “You hypocrites” Doesn’t each of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or donkey from the stall and lead it out to give it water?  Then should not this woman, a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has kept bound for eighteen long years, be set free on the Sabbath day from what bound her?”  –  Luke 13.15-16

The Pharisees hid behind their own set of laws to avoid love’s obligations. We too can use the letter of the law to rationalise away our obligation to care for others (for example, through tithing regularly and then refusing to help a needy neighbour).  But people’s needs are more important than rules and regulations.  Take time to help others, even if doing so might compromise your public image.

Always comes to those with faith:

As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. –  Luke 18.35

Beggars often waited along the roads near cities, because that was where they were able to contact the most people. Usually disabled in some way, beggars were unable to earn a living.  Medical help was not available for their problems, and people tended to ignore their obligation to care for the needy (Leviticus 25.35-38).  Thus beggars had little hope of escaping their degrading way of life.  But this blind beggar took hope in the Messiah.  He shamelessly cried out for Jesus’ attention, and Jesus said that his faith allowed him to see.  No matter how desperate your situation may seem, if you call out to Jesus in faith, he will help you.

Contrasted with hurting others:

At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. –  John 8.9

When Jesus said that only someone who had not sinned should throw the first stone, the leaders slipped quietly away, from oldest to youngest. Evidently, the older men were more aware of their sins than the younger.  Age and experience often temper youthful self-righteousness.  But whatever your age, take an honest look at your life.  Recognise your sinful nature, and look for ways to help others rather than hurt them.

From Jesus’ extraordinary resources:

So the sisters sent word to Jesus, “Lord, the one you love is sick.” – John 11.3

As their brother grew very sick, Mary and Martha turned to Jesus for help. They believed in his ability to help because they had seen his miracles.  We too know of Jesus’ miracles, both from Scripture and through changed lives we have seen.  When we need extraordinary help, Jesus offers extraordinary resources.  We should not hesitate to ask him for assistance.

A good way to demonstrate love:

By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” –  John 13.35

Love is more than simply warm feelings; it is an attitude that reveals itself in action. How can we love others as Jesus loves us?  By helping when it’s not convenient, by giving when it hurts, by devoting energy to others’ welfare rather than our own, by absorbing hurts from others without complaining or fighting back.  This kind of loving is hard to do.  That is why people notice when you do it and know you are empowered by a supernatural source.  The Bible has another beautiful description of love in 1 Corinthians 13.

Sharing is a form of helping others:

All the believers were together and had everything in common. –  Acts 2.44

Recognising the other believers as brothers and sisters in the family of God, the Christians in Jerusalem shared all they had so that all could benefit from God’s gifts. It is tempting – especially if we have material wealth – to cut ourselves off from one another, each taking care of his or her own interests, each providing for and enjoying his or her own little piece of the world.  But as part of God’s spiritual family, it is our responsibility to help one another in every way possible.  God’s family works best when its members work together.

Giving it to new believers:

They preached the good news in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith.  “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said.  –  Acts 14.21-22

Paul and Barnabas returned to visit the believers in all the cities where they had recently been threatened and physically attacked.  These men knew the dangers they faced, yet they believed that they had a responsibility to encourage the new believers.  No matter how inconvenient or uncomfortable the task may seem, we must always support new believers who need our help and encouragement.  It was not convenient or comfortable for Jesus to go to the cross for us!

Helping others vs. judging them:

Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men’s hearts.  At that time each will receive his praise from God.  –  1 Corinthians 4.5

It is tempting to judge fellow Christians, evaluating whether or not they are good followers of Christ. But only God knows a person’s heart, and he is the only one with the right to judge.  Paul’s warning to the Corinthians should also warn us.  We are to confront those who are sinning (see 5.12, 13), but we must not judge who is a better servant for Christ.  When you judge someone, you invariably consider yourself better – and that is arrogant.

We should help others:

Brothers, if someone is caught in a sing, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.  Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfil the law of Christ.  If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself.  –  Galatians 6.1-3

No Christian should ever think that he or she is totally independent and doesn’t need help from others, and no-one should feel excused from the task of helping others. The body of Christ – the church – functions only when the members work together for the common good.  Do you know someone who needs help?  Is there a Christian brother or sister who needs correction or encouragement?  Humbly and gently reach out to that person (John 13.34, 35).

Earnest Hemingways striking passport photo 1923

Harmful effects of:

“Do not spread false reports. Do not help a wicked man by being a malicious witness. –  Exodus 23.1

Making up or spreading false reports [given to the U.S.] was strictly forbidden by God.  Gossip, slander, and false witnessing undermined families, strained neighbourhood co-operation, and made chaos of the justice system.  Destructive gossip still causes problems.  Even if you do not initiate a lie, you become responsible if you pass it on.  Don’t circulate rumours; quench them.

(“Do not hold back offerings from your granaries or your vats. “You must give me the firstborn of your sons. – Exodus 22.29.  The Israelites were to be prompt in giving God their offerings.  The first of the harvest was to be dedicated to him.  Since God doesn’t send reminders, it is easy to take care of other financial responsibilities while letting our gifts to him slide.  Giving to God first out of what he has allowed you to have demonstrates that he has first priority in your life).

(“Do not follow the crowd in doing wrong. When you give testimony in a lawsuit, do not pervert justice by siding with the crowd, and do not show favouritism to a poor man in his lawsuit. – Exodus 23.2, 3. Justice is often perverted in favour of the rich.  Here the people are warned against twisting justice in favour of the poor.  Justice should be impartial, treating rich and poor alike.  Giving special privileges to either rich or poor only makes justice for everyone more unlikely.  Withstand the pressure of the crowd to sway your decision about a person.  Let the fairness God shows to each of us guide your judgment).

Like a club or a sword or a sharp arrow is the man who gives false testimony against his neighbour. – Proverb 25.18

Lying (“false testimony”) is vicious. Its effects can be as permanent as those of a stab wound.  The next time you are tempted to pass on a bit of gossip, imagine yourself stabbing the victim of your remarks with a sword.  This image may shock you into silence.

(Like clouds and wind without rain is a man who boasts of gifts he does not give. – Proverb 25.14.  Most churches, missions organisations, and Christian groups depend on the gifts of people to keep their ministries going.  But many who promise to give fail to do so.  The Bible is very clear about the effect this has on those involved in the ministry.  If you make a pledge, keep your promise).

(If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you. – Proverbs 25.21, 22.  God’s form of retaliation is most effective and yet difficult to do.  Paul quotes this proverb in Romans 12:19-21.  In Matthew 5:44, Jesus encouraged us to pray for those who hurt us.  By returning good for evil, we are acknowledging God as the balancer of all accounts and trusting him to be the judge).

We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies.  Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat. –  2 Thessalonians 3.11-12

A “busybody” is a gossip.  An idle person who doesn’t work ends up filling his or her time with less than helpful activities, like gossip.  Rumours and hearsay are tantalising, exciting to hear and make us feel like insiders.  But they tear people down.  If you often find your nose in other people’s business, you may be underemployed.  Look for a task to do for Christ or for your family, and get to work.

(In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers, to keep away from every brother who is idle and does not live according to the teachings you received from us. For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example.  We were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it.  On the contrary, we worked night and day, labouring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you.  We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to make ourselves a model for you to follow.  For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “If a man will not work, he shall not eat.”  We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies.  Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat.  And as for you, brothers, never tire of doing what is right.  If anyone does not obey our instructions in this letter, take special note of him.  Do not associate with him, in order that he may feel ashamed.  Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.  – 2 Thessalonians 3.6-15.  Some people in the Thessalonian church were falsely teaching that because Christ would return any day, people should set aside their responsibilities, leave work, do no future planning, and just wait for the Lord.  But their lack of activity only led them into sin.  They became a burden to the church, which was supporting them; they wasted time that could have been used for helping others; and they became “busybodies” (3.11).  These church members may have thought that they were being more spiritual by not working, but Paul tells them to be responsible and get back to work.  Being ready for Christ means obeying him in every area of life.  Because we know that Christ is coming, we must live in such a way that our faith and our daily practice will please him when he arrives).

(If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of him. Do not associate with him, in order that he may feel ashamed.  Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother. – 2 Thessalonians 3.14, 15.  Paul counselled the church to stop supporting financially and associating with those who persisted in their idleness.  Hunger and loneliness can be very effective ways to make the idle person become productive.  Paul was not advising coldness or cruelty, but the king of tough love that a person would show a brother or sister).

Dealing with:

I am in the midst of lions; I lie among ravenous beasts – men whose teeth are spears and arrows, whose tongues are sharp swords. –  Psalm 57.4

At times, we may be surrounded by people who gossip about us or criticise us. Verbal cruelty can damage us as badly as physical abuse.  Rather than answering with hateful words, we, like David, can talk with God about the problem.

(Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me, for in you my soul takes refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed. – Psalm 57.1. This psalm was probably written when David was hiding in a cave from Saul (see 1 Samuel 22-24)).

(My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and make music. – Psalm 57.7. David’s firm faith in God contrasted sharply with his enemies’ loud lying and boasting.  When confronted with verbal attacks, the best defence is simply to be quiet and praise God, realising that our confidence is in his love and faithfulness (57.10).  In times of great suffering, don’t turn inward to self-pity or outward to revenge, but upward to God).

Krymsky Bridge.

His role in Old Testament times:

“He poured some of the anointing oil on Aaron’s head and anointed him to consecrate him.” – Leviticus 8.12

What was the significance of anointing Aaron as high priest? The high priest had special duties that no other priest had.  He alone could enter the Most Holy Place in the tabernacle on the yearly Day of Atonement to alone for the

“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess.  – Hebrews 4.14

Christ is superior to the priests, and his priesthood is superior to their priesthood. To the Jews, the high priest was the highest religious authority in the land.  He alone entered the Holy of Holies [Centre] in the temple once a year to make atonement for the sins of the whole nation (Leviticus 16).  Like the high priest, Jesus meditates between God and us [small case ‘us’ is the U.N.].  As humanity’s representative, he intercedes for us before God.  As God’s representative, he assures us of God’s forgiveness.  Jesus has more authority than the Jewish high priests because he is truly God and truly man.  Unlike the high priest who could go before God only once a year.  Christ is always at God’s right hand, interceding for us.  He is always available to hear us when we pray.

We have easier access to God:

“ The LORD spoke to Moses after the death of the two sons of Aaron who died when they approached the LORD. The LORD said to Moses: “Tell your brother Aaron not to come whenever he chooses into the Most Holy Place behind the curtain in front of the atonement cover the ark, or else he will die, because I appear in the cloud over the atonement cover.

“This is how Aaron is to enter the sanctuary area: with a young bull for a sin offering and a ram for a burnt offering. He is to put on the sacred linen tunic, with linen undergarments next to his body; he is to tie the linen sash around him and put on the linen turban.  These are sacred garments; so he must bathe himself with water before he puts them on.  From the Israelite community he is to take two male goats for a sin offering and a ram for a burnt offering.

“Aaron is to offer the bull for his own sin offering to make atonement for himself and his household. Then he is to take the two goats and present them before the LORD at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting.  He is to cast lots for the two goats – one lot for the LORD and the other for the scapegoat.  Aaron shall bring the goat whose lot falls to the LORD and sacrifice it for a sin offering.  But the goat chosen by lot as the scapegoat shall be presented alive before the LORD to be used for making atonement by sending it into the desert as a scapegoat.

“Aaron shall bring the bull for his own sin offering to make atonement for himself and his household, and he is to slaughter the bull for his own sin offering. He is to take a censer full of burning coals from the altar before the LORD and two handfuls of finely ground fragrant incense and taken them behind the curtain.  He is to put the incense on the fire before the LORD, and the smoke of the incense will conceal the atonement cover above the Testimony, so that he will not die.  He is to take some of the bull’s blood and with his finger sprinkle it on the front of the atonement cover; then he shall sprinkle some of it with his finger seven times before the atonement cover.

“He shall then slaughter the goat for the sin offering for the people and take its blood behind the curtain and do with it as he did with the bull’s blood: He shall sprinkle it on the atonement cover and in front of it. In this way he will make atonement for the Most Holy Place because of the uncleanness and rebellion of the Israelites, whatever their sins have been.  He is to do the same for the Tent of Meeting, which is among them in the midst of their uncleanness.  No-one is to be in the Tent of Meeting from the time Aaron goes in to make atonement in the Most Holy Place until he comes out, having made atonement for himself, his household and the whole community of Israel.

“Then he shall come out to the altar that is before the LORD and make atonement for it. He shall take some of the bull’s blood and some of the goat’s blood and put it on all the horns of the altar.  He shall sprinkle some of the blood on it with his finger seven times to cleanse it and consecrate it from the uncleanness of the Israelites.

“When Aaron has finished making atonement for the Most Holy Place, the Tent of Meeting and the altar, he shall bring forward the live goat. He is to lay both hands on the head of the live goat and confess over it all the wickedness and rebellion of the Israelites – all their sins – and put them on the goat’s head.  He shall send the goat away into the desert in the care of a man appointed for the task.  The goat will carry on itself all their sins to a solitary place; and the man shall release it in the desert.

“Then Aaron is to go into the Tent of Meeting and take off the linen garments he put on before he entered the Most Holy Place, and he is to leave them there. He shall bathe himself with water in the Holy place and put on his regular garments.  Then he shall come out and sacrifice the burnt offering for himself and the burnt offering for the people, to make atonement for himself and for the people.  He shall also burn the fat of the sin offering on the altar”. – Leviticus 16.1-25

Aaron had to spend hours preparing himself to meet God. But we can approach God anytime (Hebrews 4.16).  What a privilege!  We are offered easier access to God than the high priests at Old Testament times!  Still, we must never forget that God is holy [Centre] nor let this privilege cause us to approach God carelessly.  The way to God has been opened to us by Christ.  But easy access to God does not eliminate our need to prepare our hearts as we draw near in prayer.

[16.1ff The Day of Atonement was the greatest day of the year for Israel.  The Hebrew word for atone means “to cover”.  Old Testament sacrifices could not actually remove sins, only cover them.  On this day, the people confessed their sins as a nation, and the high priest went into the Most Holy Place to make atonement for them.  Sacrifices were made and blood was shed so that the people’s sins could be “covered” until Christ’s sacrifice on the cross would give people the opportunity to have their sin removed for ever.]

[16.5-28 This event with the two goats occurred on the Day of Atonement.  The two goats represented the two ways God was dealing with the Israelites sin: (1) he was forgiving their sin through the first goat, which was sacrificed, and (2) he was removing their guilt through the second goat, the scapegoat that was sent into the desert.  The same ritual had to be repeated every year.  Jesus Christ’s death replaced this system once and for all.  We can have our sins forgiven and guilt removed by placing our trust in Christ (Hebrew 10.1-18).]

[16.12   A censer was a dish or shallow bowl that hung by a chain or was carried with tongs.  Inside the censer were placed incense (a combination of sweet-smelling spices) and burning coals from the altar.  On the Day of Atonement, the high priest entered the Most Holy Place carrying a smoking censer.  The smoke shielded him from the ark of the covenant and the presence of God – otherwise he would die.  Incense may also have had a very practical purpose.  The sweet smell drew the people’s attention to the morning and evening sacrifices and helped cover the sometimes foul smell.]

Few had the courage to confront the king:

“In the seventh year Jehoiada showed his strength. He made a covenant with the commanders of units of a hundred: Azariah son of Jeroham, Ishmael son of Jehohanan, Azariah son of Obed, Maaseiah son of Adaiah, and Elishaphat son of Zicri”.  – 2 Chronicles 23.1

(After seven years of rule by Athaliah, the queen mother, Jehoiada the priest finally got up his courage and took action to get rid of the idolatrous ruler. To confront the king (or queen) with the demands of God’s law was supposed to be the role of every priest in every generation.  Tragically, many priests shield away from this duty, and thus only a few made a difference in the nation.)

Although it could have cost him his life, this priest did what was right, restoring the temple worship and anointing the new king. There are times when we must correct a wrong or speak out for what is right.  When such a situation arises, gather up your courage and act.

Why there were two in Jesus’ day:

“Tax collectors also came to be baptised. “Teacher,” they asked, “what should we do?” “.  – Luke 3.12

Tax collectors were notorious for their dishonesty. Romans gathered funds for their government by farming out the collection privilege.  Tax collectors earned their own living by adding a sizable sum – whatever they could get away with – to the total and keeping this money for themselves.  Unless the people revolted and risked Roman retaliation, they had to pay whatever was demanded.  Obviously they hated the tax collectors, who were generally dishonest, greedy, and ready to betray their own countrymen for cold cash.  Yet, said John, God would accept even these men; God desires to pour out mercy on those who confess, and then to give strength to live changed lives.

[3.11-14  John’s message demanded at least three specific responses: (1) share what you have with those who need it, (2) whatever your job is, do it well and with fairness, and (3) be content with what you’re earning.  John had no time to address comforting messages to those who lived careless or selfish lives – he was calling the people to right living.  What changes [royal offer] can you make in sharing what you have, doing your work honestly and well, and being content?]

[3.12-14   John’s message took root in unexpected places – among the poor, the dishonest, and even the hated occupation army.  These people were painfully aware of their needs.  Too often we confuse respectability with right living.  They are not the same.  Respectability can even hinder right living if it keeps us from seeing our need [Rome given] for God.  If you had to choose, would you protect your character or your reputation?]

Caiaphas’ role as:

“Then the chief priests and the elders of the people assembled in the palace of the high priest, whose name was Caiaphas” – Matthew 26.3

Caiaphas was the ruling high priest during Jesus ministry. He was the son-in-law of Annas, the previous high priest.  The Roman government had taken over the process of appointing all political and religious leaders.  Caiaphas served for 18 years, longer than most high priests, suggesting that he was gifted at co-operating with the Romans.  He was the first to recommend Jesus’ death in order to “save” the nation (John 11.49, 50).

[26.3-5   This was a deliberate plot [sharing where you live] to kill Jesus.  Without this plot, there would have been no groundswell of popular opinion against him.  In fact, because of Jesus’ popularity, the religious leaders were afraid to arrest him during the Passover.  They did not want their actions to incite a riot.]

Jesus taken to Caiaphas’ palace for trial:

“and brought him first to Annas, who was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest that year. – John 18.13

(Jesus was immediately taken to the high priest’s residence, even though this was the middle of the night. The religious leaders were in a hurry – they wanted to complete the execution before the Sabbath and get on with the Passover celebration.  This residence was a palace whose outer walls enclosed a courtyard where servants and soldiers would warm themselves around a fire.)

Both Annas and Caiaphas had been high priests, Annas was Israel’s high priest from A.D. 6 to 15, when he was deposed by Roman rulers. Caiaphas, Annas’ son-in-law, was appointed high priest from A.D. 18 to 36/37.  According to Jewish law, the office of high priest was held for life.  Many Jews therefore still considered Annas the high priest and still called him by that title.  But although Annas retained much authority among the Jews, Caiaphas made the final decisions.

Both Caiaphas and Annas cared more about their political ambitions than about their responsibility to lead the people to God.  Though religious leaders, they had become evil.  As the nation’s spiritual leaders, they should have been sensitive to God’s revelation.  They should have known that Jesus was the Messiah about whom the Scriptures spoke, and they should have appointed the people to him.  But when deceitful men and women pursue evil, they want to eliminate all opposition.  Instead of honesty evaluating Jesus’ claims based on their knowledge of Scripture, these religious leaders sought to further their own selfish ambitions and were even willing to kill God’s Son, if that’s what it took, to do it.

How Jesus functions as our high priest:

“For surely it is not angels he helps, but Abraham’s descendants. For this reason he had to be made like his brothers in every way, in order that he might become a merciful, and faithful high priest in service of God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people”.   – Hebrew 2.16-17

In the Old Testament, the high priest was the mediator between God and his people. His job was to regularly offer animal sacrifices according to the law and to intercede with God for forgiveness for the people’s sins.  Jesus Christ is now our high priest.  He came to earth as a human being [Tom Thumb], therefore, he understands our weaknesses and shows mercy to us.  He has once and for all paid the penalty for our sins by his own sacrificial death (atonement), and he can be depended on to restore our broken relationship with God.  We are released from sin’s domination over us when we commit ourselves fully to Christ, trusting completely in what he has done for us (see the note on 4.14 for more about Jesus as the great high priest).

“Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them. – Hebrew 7.25 (2)

(No-one can add to what Jesus did to save us; our past, present, and future sins are all forgiven, and Jesus is with the Father as a sign that our sins are forgiven. If you are a Christian, remember that Christ has paid the price for your sins once and for all.  (See also 9.24-28).)

As our high priest, Christ is our advocate, the mediator between us and God. He looks after our interests and intercedes for us with God.  The Old Testament high priest went before God once a year to plead for the forgiveness of the nation’s sins.  Christ makes perpetual intercession before God for us.  Christ’s continuous presence in heaven with the Father assures us that our sins have been paid for and forgiven (see Roman 8.33, 34; Hebrew 2.17, 18; 4.15, 16; 9.24).  This wonderful assurance frees us from guilt and from fear of failure.

“nor will the priests, who are Levites, ever fail to have a man to stand before me continually to offer burnt offerings, to burn grain offerings and to present sacrifices.’ “   – Jeremiah 33.18

As Christ fulfils the role of King, he also fulfils the role of Priest, maintaining constant fellowship with God and mediating for the people (see note on 22.30). This verse does not mean that actual priests will perform sacrifices, for sacrifices will no longer be necessary (Hebrew 7.24, 25).  Now that Christ is our High Priest, all believers are priests of God, and we can come before him personally.

Like great-grandfather, like grandfather, like father, like son – this tells the story of Herod Agrippa II. He inherited the effects of generations of powerful men with flawed personalities.  Each son followed his father in weaknesses, mistakes, and missed opportunities.  Each generation had a confrontation with God, but each failed to realise the importance of the decision.  Herod Agrippa’s great-uncle, Herod Antipas, actually met Jesus during his trial, but failed to see Jesus for who he was.  Agrippa II heard the gospel from Paul, but considered the message mild entertainment.  He found it humorous that Paul actually tried to convince him to become a Christian.

Like so many before and after, Agrippa II stopped within hearing distance of the kingdom of God. He left himself without excuse.  He heard the gospel but decided it wasn’t worth responding to personally.  Unfortunately, his mistake isn’t uncommon.  Many who read this story will also not believe.  Their problem, like his, is not really that the gospel isn’t convincing or that they don’t need to know God personally; it is that they choose not to respond.

What has been your response to the gospel? Has it turned your life around and given you the hope of eternal life, or has it been a message to resist or reject?  Perhaps it has just been entertainment.  It may seem like too great a price to give God control of your life, but it is an even greater price by far to live eternally apart from him because you have chosen not to be his child.

Strengths and accomplishments:

• Last of the Herod dynasty that ruled parts of Palestine from 40 B.C. to A.D. 100
• Continued his father’s success in mediating between Rome and Palestine
• Continued the family tradition of building and improving cities

Weaknesses and mistakes:

• Was not convinced by the gospel and consciously rejected it
• Carried on an incestuous relationship with his sister Bernice

Lessons from his life:

• Families pass on both positive and negative influences to children
• There are no guarantees of multiple opportunities to respond to God

Vital statistics:

• Occupation: Ruler of northern and eastern Palestine
• Relatives: Great-grandfather: Herod the Great. Father: Herod Agrippa I.  Great-uncle: Herod Antipas.  Sister: Bernice, Drusilla
• Contemporaries: Paul, Felix, Festus, Peter, Luke

Key verse: “Then Agrippa said to Paul, ‘Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?’ “ (Acts 26.28).

Herod Agrippa II’s story is told in Acts 25.13 – 26.32.

Proverbs is a book about wise living. It often focuses on a person’s response and attitude towards God, who is the source of wisdom.  And a number of proverbs point out aspects of God’s character.  Knowing God helps us on the way to wisdom.

God…	is aware of all that happens	15.3
Knows the heart of all people	15.11; 16.2; 21.2
Controls all things	16.33; 21.30
Is a place of safety	18.10
Rescues good people from danger	11.8, 21
Condemns the wicked	11.31
Delights in our prayers	15.8, 29
Loves those who obey him	15.9; 22.12
Cares for poor and needy	15.25; 22.22, 23
Purifies hearts	17.3
Hates evil	17.5; 21.27; 28.9
Our response should be…	To fear and reverence God	10.27; 14.26, 27; 15.16; 16.6; 19.23; 28.14
To obey God’s word	13.13; 19.16
To please God	21:3
To trust in God	22.17-19; 29.25

Proverbs is direct and forceful in rejecting pride. A proud attitude heads the list of seven things God hates (6:16, 17).  The harmful results of pride are constantly contrasted with humility and its benefits.

Results of…	Humility	Pride
Leads to wisdom	Leads to disgrace	11:2
Takes advice	Produces quarrels	13:10
Leads to honour	15:33
Leads to punishment	16:5
Leads to destruction	16:18
Ends in honour	Ends in downfall	18:12
Brings one to honour	Brings one low	29:23

Importance of:

1 Samuel 15.13-14

Saul thought he had won a great victory over the Amalekites, but God [Wall] saw it as a great failure because Saul had disobeyed him and then lied to Samuel about the results of the battle.  Saul may have thought his lie wouldn’t be detected, or that what he did was not wrong.  Saul was deceiving himself.

Dishonest people soon begin to believe the lies they construct around themselves. Then they lose the ability to tell the difference between truth and lies.  By believing your own lies you deceive yourself, you will alienate yourself from God [Wall], and you will lose credibility in all your relationships.  In the long run, honesty wins out.

Psalms 24.4

Swearing by what is false means telling lies under oath. How greatly God values honesty!  Dishonesty comes easily, especially when complete truthfulness could cost us something, make us uncomfortable, or put us in an unfavourable light.  Dishonest communication hinders relationships.  Without honesty, a relationship with God is impossible.   If we lie to others, we will begin to deceive ourselves.  God cannot hear us or speak to us if we are building a well of self-deception.

Proverbs 19.1

A blameless life is far more valuable than wealth, but most people don’t act as if they believe this. Afraid of not getting everything they want, they will pay any price to increase their wealth – cheating on their taxes, stealing from stores or employers, withholding tithes, refusing to give.  But when we know and love God, we realise that a lower standard of living – or even poverty – is a small price to pay for personal integrity.  Do your actions show that you sacrifice your integrity to increase your wealth?  What changes do you need to make in order to get your priorities straight?

Micah 7.1-4

Micah could not find an upright person anywhere in the land. Even today, uprightness (honesty, integrity) is difficult to find.  Society rationalises sin, and even Christians sometimes compromise Christian principles in order to do what they want.  It is easy to justify our actions to ourselves, especially when “everyone else is doing it”.  But the standards for honesty come from God, not society.  We are honest because God is truth, and we are to be like him.

Proper motives for:

Genesis 27.11-12

Jacob hesitated when he heard Rebekah’s deceitful plan. Although he questioned it for the wrong reason (fear of getting caught), he protested and thus gave her one last chance to reconsider.  But Rebekah had become so wrapped up in her plan that she no longer saw clearly what she was doing.  Sin had trapped her and was degrading her character.  Correcting yourself in the middle of doing wrong may bring hurt and disappointment, but it will also bring freedom from sin’s control.

Keeping your end of the bargain:

Genesis 29.28-30

Although Jacob was tricked by Laban, he kept his part of the bargain. There was more at stake than just Jacob’s hurt.  There was Rachel to think about, as well as God’s plan for his life.  When we are tricked by others, keeping our part of the bargain may still be unwise.  Nursing our wounds or plotting revenge makes us unable to see from God’s perspective.

Be honest in your prayers:

Joshua 7.7-9

Imagine praying this way to God. This is not a formal church prayer; it is the prayer of a man who is afraid and confused by what is happening around him.  Joshua poured out his real thoughts to God.  Hiding your needs from God is ignoring the only one who can really help.  God welcomes your honest prayers and wants you to express your true feelings to him.  Any believer can become more honest in prayer by remembering that God is all-knowing and all-powerful and that his love is everlasting.

Job 7.11

Job felt deep anguish and bitterness, and he spoke honestly to God about his feelings to let out his frustrations. If we express our feelings to God, we can deal with them without exploding in harsh words and actions, possibly hurting ourselves and others.  The next time strong emotions threaten to overwhelm you, express them openly to God in prayer.  This will help you gain an eternal perspective on the situation and give you greater ability to deal with it constructively.

Being honest with God:

Psalms 6.6

Pouring out his heart with tears. David was completely honest with God.  We can be honest with God even when we are filled with anger or despair because God knows us thoroughly and wants the very best for us.  Anger may result in rash outward acts or turning inward in depression.  But because we trust in our all-powerful God, we don’t have to be victims of circumstance or be weighed down by the guilt of sin.  Be honest with God, and he will help you turn your attention from yourself to him and his mercy.

Evaluating yours:

Proverbs 12.13

Sinful talk is twisting the facts to support your claims. Those who do this are likely to be trapped by their own lies.  But for someone who always tells the truth, the facts – plain and unvarnished – give an unshakable defence.  If you find that you always have to defend yourself to others, maybe your honesty is less than it should be.

In business dealings:

Proverbs 16.11

Whether we buy or sell, make a product or offer a service, we know what is honest and what is dishonest. Sometimes we feel pressure to be dishonest in order to advance ourselves or gain more profit.  But if we want to obey God, there is no middle ground: God demands honesty in every business transaction.  No amount of rationalising can cover for a dishonest business practice.  Honesty and fairness are not always easy, but they are what God demands.  Ask him for discernment and courage to be consistently honest and fair.

In our estimate of ourselves:

John 13.37-38

Peter proudly told Jesus that he was ready to die for him. But Jesus corrected him.  He knew Peter would deny that he knew Jesus that very night to protect himself (18.25-27).  In our enthusiasm, it is easy to make promises, but God knows the extent of our commitment.  Paul tells us not to think of ourselves more highly than we ought (Romans 12:3).  Instead of bragging, demonstrate your commitment step by step as you grow in your knowledge of God’s word and in your faith.

EXTRA:

(1 Samuel 15.12   Saul built a monument in honour of himself.  What a contrast to Moses and Joshua, who gave all the credit to God [Wall].)

(1 Samuel 15.22, 23   This is the first of numerous places in the Bible where the theme “to obey is better than sacrifice” is stated (Psalms 40.6-8; 51:16, 17; Proverbs 21.3; Isaiah 1.11-17; Jeremiah 7.21-23; Hosea 6.6; Micah 6.6-8; Matthew 12.7; Mark 12.33; Hebrews 10.8, 9).  Was Samuel saying that sacrifice is unimportant?  No, he was urging Saul to look at his reasons for making the sacrifice rather than at the sacrifice itself.  A sacrifice was a ritual transaction between man and God [Wall] that physically demonstrated a relationship between them.  But if the person’s heart was not truly repentant or if he did not truly love God [Wall[, the sacrifice was a hollow ritual.  Religious ceremonies or rituals are empty unless they  are performed with an attitude of love and obedience.  “Being religious” going to church, serving on a committee, giving to charity) is not enough if we do not act out our devotion and obedience to God [Wall].)

(1 Samuel 15.23   Rebellion and arrogance are serious sins.  They involve far more than being independent and strong-minded.  Scripture equates them with divination (witchcraft) and idolatry, sins worthy of death (Exodus 22.18; Leviticus 20.6; Deuteronomy 13.12-15; 18.10; Micah 5.10-14).  – –  Saul became both religious and arrogant, so it is little wonder that God [Wall] finally rejected him and took away his kingdom.  Rebellion against God [Wall] is perhaps the most serious sin of all because as long as a person rebels, he or she closes the door to forgiveness and restoration with God [Wall].)