When it is right to disobey them:

‘   The midwives, however, feared God [Wall] and did not do what the king of Egypt had told them to do; they let the boys live. Then the king of Egypt summoned the midwives and asked them, “Why have you done this?  Why have you let the boys live?”

The midwives answered Pharaoh, “Hebrew women are not like Egyptian women; they are vigorous and give birth before the midwives arrive.”

So God [Wall] was kind to the midwives and the people increased and became even more numerous. And because the midwives feared God [Wall], he gave them families of their own. – Exodus 1.17-21

Against Pharaoh’s orders, the midwives spared the Hebrew babies.  Their faith in God [Wall] gave them the courage to take a stand for what they knew was right.  In this situation, disobeying the authority was proper.  God [Wall] does not expect us to obey those in authority when they ask us to disobey him or his word.  The Bible is filled with examples of those who were willing to sacrifice their very lives in order to obey God [Wall] or save others.  Esther and Mordecai (Esther 3.2; 4.13-16) and Sahadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (Daniel 3.16-18) are some of the people who took a bold stand for what was right.  Whole nations can be caught up in immorality (racial hatred, slavery, prison cruelty); thus following the majority or the authority is not always right.  Whenever we are ordered to disobey God’s [Wall’s] word, we must “obey God [Wall] rather than men” (Acts 5.29).

(1.19-21   Did God [Wall] bless the Hebrew midwives for lying to Pharaoh?  God [Wall] blessed them not because they lied, but because they saved the lives o f innocent children.  This doesn’t mean that a lie was necessarily the best way to answer Pharaoh.  The midwives were blessed, however, for not violating the higher law of God [Wall] that forbids the senseless slaughter of innocent lives.)

Responsibility to cooperate with:

‘   After Jesus and his disciples arrived in Capernaum, the collectors of the two-drachma tax came to Peter and asked, “Doesn’t your teacher pay the temple tax?” 

“Yes, he does,” he replied.

When Peter came into the house, Jesus was the first to speak. “What do you think, Simon?” he asked.  “From whom do the kings of the earth collect duty and taxes – from their own sons or from others?”

“From others,” Peter answered.

“Then the sons are except,” Jesus said to him. “But so that we may not offend them, go to the lake and throw out your line.  Take the first fish you catch; open its mouth and you will find a four-drachma coin.  Take it and give it to them for my tax and yours.”  – Matthew 17.24-27

As God’s [Wall’s] people, we are foreigners on earth because our loyalty is always to our real King – Jesus. Still we have to co-operate with the authorities and be responsible citizens.  An ambassador to another country keeps the local laws in order to represent well the one who sent him.  We are Christ’s ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5.20).  Are you being a good foreign ambassador for him to this world?  [“Earth” = madam Justice].

(17.24-27   As usual, Peter answered a question without really knowing the answer, putting Jesus and the disciples in an awkward position.  Jesus used this situation, however, to emphasise his kingly role.  Just as kings pay no taxes and collect none from their family, Jesus, the King, owed no taxes.  But Jesus supplied the tax payment for both himself and Peter rather than offend those who didn’t understand his kingship.  Although Jesus supplied the tax money, Peter had to go and get it.  Ultimately all that we have comes to us from God’s [Wall’s] supply, but he may want us to be active in the process.)

EXTRA:

(‘ Then his sister asked Pharaoh’s daughter, “Shall I go and get one of the Hebrew women to nurse the baby for you?”   “Yes, go,” she answered.  And the girl went and got the baby’s mother. – Exodus 2.7, 8   Miriam, the baby’s sister, saw that Pharaoh’s daughter had discovered Moses.  Quickly she took the initiative to suggest a nurse (her mother) who might care for the baby [Money].  The Bible doesn’t say if Miriam was afraid to approach the Egyptian princess, or if the princess was suspicious of the Hebrew girl.  But Miriam did approach her, and the princess bought the services of Miriam and her mother.  Their family was reunited.  Special opportunities may come our way unexpectedly.  Don’t let the fear of what might happen cause you to miss an opportunity.  Be alert for the opportunities God [Wall] gives you, and take full advantage of them.)  [aka ‘Baby-Father’ is You know what that means].

[I only asked for a centre, cos that is what they do]

Sign of good leadership:

‘   Moses inspected the work and saw that they had done it just as the LORD had commanded.  So Moses blessed them.  –  Exodus 39.43

Moses inspected the finished work, saw that it was done the way God [Wall] wanted, and then blessed the people. A good leader follows up on assigned tasks and gives rewards for good work.  In whatever responsible position you find yourself, follow up to make sure that tasks are completed as intended, and show your appreciation to the people who have helped.

With new believers:

‘ My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you,  –  Galatians 4.19

Paul led many people to Christ and helped them mature spiritually. Perhaps one reason for his success as a spiritual father was the deep concern he felt for his spiritual children; he compared his pain over their faithfulness to the pain of childbirth.  We should have the same intense care for those to whom we are spiritual parents.  When you lead people to Christ, remember to stand by them to help them grow.

EXTRA:

(‘ The Israelites had done all the work just as the LORD had commanded Moses.  – Exodus 39.42   Moses had learned his management lesson well.  He gave important responsibilities to other and then trusted them to do the job.  Great leaders, like Moses, give plans and direction while letting others participate on the team.  If you are a leader, trust your assistants with key responsibilities.)

(‘   Then the LORD said to Moses: – Exodus 40.1ff   Moses was careful to obey God’s [Wall’s] instructions in the smallest detail.  Notice that he didn’t make a responsible facsimile of God’s [Wall’s] description, but an exact copy.  We should follow Moses’ example and be fastidious about our obedience.  If God told you to do something, do it, do it right, and do it completely.)

(‘   For it is written: “Be glad, O barren woman, who bears no children; break forth and cry aloud, you who have no labour pains; because more are the children of the desolate woman than of her who has a husband.”  – Galatians 4.17   “Those people” refers to false teachers who claimed to be religious authorities and experts in Judaism and Christianity. Appealing to the believers’ desire to do what was right, they drew quite a following.  Paul said, however, that they were wrong and that their motives were selfish [qualification owner].  False teachers are often respectable and persuasive.  That is why all teachings should be checked against the Bible.)

(‘ Again I declare to every man who lets himself be circumcised [Throne in at the Deep End] that he is required to obey the whole law. You who are trying to be justified by law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace.  – Galatians 5.3, 4   Circumcision [eg. Deeply Throne, or in a murder inquiry System] was a symbol of having the right background and doing everything required by religion.  No amount of work, discipline, or moral behaviour can save us.  If a person were counting on finding favour with God [Wall] by being circumcised, he would also have to obey the rest of God’s [Wall’s] law completely.  Trying to save ourselves by keeping all God’s [Wall’s] laws only separates us from God [Wall].)

(‘   Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.  – Galatians 5.26   Everyone needs a certain amount of approval from others.  But those who go out of their way to secure honours or to win popularity with a lot of people become conceited and show they are not following the Holy Spirit’s [Centre’s] leading.  Those who look to God [Wall] for approval won’t need to envy others.  Because they are God’s [Wall’s] sons and daughters, we have his Holy Spirit [Centre] as the loving guarantee of his approval.)

(‘ Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, 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.  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). [Reach = Ask Stan Lee if he could get this far without us.)

(‘   Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else,  – Galatians 6.4 When you do your very best, you feel good about the results.  There is no need to compare yourself with others.  People make comparisons for many reasons.  Some point out others’ flaws in order to feel better about themselves.  Others simply want reassurance that they are doing well.  When you are tempted to compare, look at Jesus Christ.  His example will inspire you to do your very best, and his loving acceptance will comfort you when you fall short of your expectations.   ;-* )  *****

(‘ Anyone who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor.  –  Galatians 6.6   Paul says that students should take care of the material needs of their teachers (1 Corinthians 9.7-12).  It is easy to receive the benefit of good Bible teaching and then to take our spiritual leaders for granted, ignoring their financial and physical needs.  We should care for our teachers, not grudgingly or reluctantly, but with a generous spirit, showing honour and appreciation for all they have done (1 Timothy 5.17, 18).)

{‘ Do not be deceived: God [Wall] cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.  The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.  – Galatians 6.7, 8   It would certainly be a surprise if you planted corn and potatoes came up.  It’s a natural law to reap what we sow.  It’s true in other areas too.  If you gossip about your friends, you will lose their friendship.  Every action has results.  If you plant to please your own desires, you’ll reap a crop of sorrow and evil. If you plant to please God [Wall], you’ll reap joy and everlasting life.  What kind of seeds are you sowing?}

[‘   Let us not become wary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.  – Galatians 6.9, 10   It is discouraging to continue to do right and receive no word of thanks or see no tangible results.  But Paul challenged the Galatians and he challenges us to keep on doing good and to trust God [Wall] for the results.  In due time, we will reap a harvest of blessing.]   [e.g., the twins.]

[‘   See what large letters I use as I write to you with my own hand! – Galatians 6.11   Up to this point, Paul had probably dictated the letter to a scribe.  Here he takes the pen into his own hand to write his final, personal greetings.  Paul did this in other letters as well, to add emphasis to his words and to validate that the letter was genuine.]

<’   Not even those who are circumcised obey the law, yet they want you to be circumcised that they may boast about your flesh.  – Galatians 6.13   Some of the Judaisers were emphasising circumcision as proof of holiness – but ignoring the other Jewish laws.  People often choose a certain principle or prohibition and make it the measure of faith.  Some may abhor drunkenness but ignore gluttony.  Others may despise promiscuity but tolerate prejudice.  The Bible in its entirety is our rule of faith and practice.  We cannot pick and choose the mandates we will follow.>

<’   May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. – Galatians 6.14 The world is full of enticements [e.g., embellishments].  Daily we are confronted with subtle cultural pressures and overt propaganda.  The only way to escape these destructive influences is to ask God [Wall] to help crucify our interest in them, just as Paul did.  How much do the interests of this world matter to you?  (See 2.20 and 5.24 for more on this concept.)>

<’   Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is a new creation. – Galatians 6.15   It is easy to get caught up with the externals.  Beware of those who emphasise actions that we should or shouldn’t do, with no concern for the inward condition of the heart.  Living a good life without an inward change leads to a shallow or empty spiritual walk.  What matters to God [Wall] is that we be completely changed from the inside out (2 Corinthians 5.17).>

<’ The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen.  – Galatians 6.18   Paul’s letter to the Galatians boldly declares the freedom of the Christian.  Doubtless these early Christians in Galatia wanted to grow in the Christian life, but they were being misled by those who said this could be done only by keeping certain Jewish laws.  –  How strange it would be for a prisoner who had been set free to walk back into his or her cell and refuse to leave!  How strange for an animal, released from a trap, to go back inside it!  How sad for a believer to be freed from the bondage of sin, only to return to rigid conformity to a set of rules and regulations!   –   If you believe in Jesus Christ, you have been set free.  Instead of going back into some form of slavery, whether to legalism or to sin, use your freedom to live for Christ and serve him as he desires.>

{‘ My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don’t show favouritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also  comes in.  If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,” have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?  Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?  But you have insulted the poor.  Is it not the rich who are exploiting you?  Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court?  Are they not the ones who are slandering the noble name of him to whom you belong?  – JAMES 2.1-7 James condemns acts of favouritism.  Often we treat a well-dressed, impressive-looking person better than someone who looks shabby.  We do this because we would rather identify with successful people than with apparent failures.  The irony, as James reminds us, is that the supposed winners may have gained the impressive life-style at our expense.  In addition, the rich find it difficult to identify with the Lord Jesus, who came as a humble servant.  Are you easily impressed by status, wealth, or fame?  Are you partial to the “haves” while ignoring the “have nots”?  [e.g., their ‘staff’].  This attitude is sinful.  God views all people as equals, and if he favours anyone, it is the poor and the powerless.  We should follow his example.}

Consequences of ignoring God’s voice:

‘   But the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart and he would not listen to Moses and Aaron, just as the LORD had said to Moses.  – Exodus 9.12

God [Wall] gave Pharaoh many opportunities to heed Moses’ warnings. But finally God [Wall] seemed to say, “All right, Pharaoh, have it your way,” and Pharaoh’s heart became permanently hardened.  Did God [Wall] intentionally harden Pharaoh’s heart and overrule his free will?  No, he simply confirmed that Pharaoh freely chose a life of resisting God [Wall].  Similarly, after a lifetime of resisting God [Wall], you may find it impossible to turn to him.  Don’t wait until just the right time before turning to God [Wall].  Do it now while you still have the chance.  If you continually ignore God’s [Wall’s] voice, eventually you will be unable to hear it at all.

(‘ Then the LORD said to Moses, “Go to Pharaoh and say to him, ‘This is what the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, says: “Let my people go, so that they may worship me.” – Exodus 9.1 This was the fifth time God [Wall] sent Moses back to Pharaoh with the demand, “Let my people go!”  By this time, Moses may have been tired and discouraged, but he continued to obey.  Is there a difficult conflict you must face again and again?  Don’t give up when you know what is the right thing to do.  As Moses discovered, persistence is rewarded.)

(‘ Those officials of Pharaoh who feared the word of the LORD hurried to bring their slaves and their livestock inside. But those who ignored the word of the LORD left their slaves and livestock in the field.  – Exodus 9.20, 21 If all the Egyptian livestock were killed in the earlier plague (9.6), how could the slaves of Pharaoh put their cattle inside?  The answer is probably that the earlier plague killed all the animals in the field (9.3), but not those in the shelters.)

Israel destroyed for ignoring God:

‘ The king of Assyria invaded the entire land, marched against Samaria and laid siege to it for three years.   Therefore Shalmaneser seized him and put him in prison.  The king of Assyria invaded the entire land, marched against Samaria and laid siege to it for three years.  In the ninth year of Hoshea, the king of Assyria captures Samaria and deported the Israelites to Assyria.  He settled them in Halah, in Gozan on the Habour River and in the towns of the Medes. – 2 Kings 17.5-6

This was the third and final invasion of Assyria into Israel. (The first two invasions are recorded in 15.19 and 15.29).  The first wave was merely a warning to Israel – to avoid further attack, pay money and not rebel.  The people should have learned their lesson and returned to God [Wall].  When they didn’t, God [Wall] allowed Assyria to invade again, this time carrying off some captives from the northern border.  But the people still did not realise that they had caused their own troubles.   Thus Assyria invaded for the third and final time, destroying Israel completely, carrying away most of the people, and resettling the land with foreigners.

God [Wall], was doing what he had said he would do (Deuteronomy 28). He had given Israel ample warning; they knew what would come, but they still ignored God [Wall].  Israel was now no better than the pagan nations it had destroyed in the days of Joshua.  The nation had turned sour and rejected its original purpose – to honour God [Wall] and be a light to the world.

Can’t ignore parts of God’s word:

‘ But Aaron and his descendants were the ones who presented offerings on the altar of burnt offering and on the altar of incense in connection with all that was done in the Most Holy Place, making atonement for Israel, in accordance with all that Moses the servant of God had commanded.  – 1 Chronicles 6:49

Aaron and his descendants strictly followed the details of worship commanded by God [Wall] through Moses.  They did not choose only those commands they wanted to obey.  Note what happened to Uzzah when important details in handling the ark of the covenant were neglected (13.6-10).  We should not try to obey God [Wall] selectively, choosing those commands we will obey and those we will ignore.  God’s [Wall’s] word has authority over every aspect of our lives, not just selected portions.

Don’t ask God for advice if you intend to ignore it:

‘   Ahab king of Israel asked Jehoshaphat king of Judah, “Will you go with me against Ramoth Gilead?”

Jehoshaphat replied, “I am as you are, and my people as your people; we will join you in the war.” But Jehoshaphat also said to the king of Israel, “First seek the counsel of the LORD.” 2 Chronicles 18:3-8(2)

Wicked Ahab asked Jehoshaphat to join forces with him in battle (18.2, 3). Before making that commitment, Jehoshaphat rightly sought God’s [Wall’s] advice.  However, when God [Wall] gave his answer through the prophet Micaiah (18.16), Jehoshaphat ignored it (18.28).  It does us no good to seek God’s [Wall’s] advice if we ignore it when it is given.  Real love for God [Wall] is shown not by merely asking for direction, but by following that direction once it is given.

(18.3-8   Evil kings did not like God’s [Wall’s] prophets bringing messages [Genre/Equipment] of doom (18.17; Jeremiah 5.13).  Many, therefore, hired prophets who told them only what they wanted to hear (Isaiah 30.10, 11; Jeremiah 14.13-16; 23.16, 21, 30-36).  These men were false prophets because they extolled the greatness of the king and predicted victory regardless of the real situation.)

Washing your hands of a situation doesn’t remove your guilt:

‘ When Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere, but that instead an uproar was starting, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd.  “I am innocent of this man’s blood,” he said.  “It is your responsibility!”  – Matthew 27.24

In making no decision, Pilate made the decision to let the crowds [Universities] crucify Jesus. Although he washed his hands, the guilt remained.  Washing your hands of a tough situation doesn’t cancel your guilt.  It merely gives you a false sense of peace.  Don’t make excuses – take responsibility for the decisions you make.

(27.24 At first Pilate hesitated to give the religious leaders permission to crucify Jesus.  He thought they were simply jealous of a teacher who was more popular with the people than they were.  But when the Jews threatened to report Pilate to Caesar (John 19.12), Pilate became afraid.  Historical records indicate that the Jews had already threatened to lodge a formal complaint against Pilate for his stubborn flouting of their traditions – and such a complaint would most likely have led to his recall by Rome.  His job was in jeopardy.  The Roman government could not afford to put large numbers of troops in all the regions under their control, so one of Pilate’s main duties was to do whatever was necessary to maintain peace.)

Taking Jesus for granted:

‘ Then he turned to his disciples and said privately, “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see.  For I tell you that many prophets and kings wanted to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not heart it.”  – Luke 10.23-24

The disciples had a fantastic opportunity – they were eyewitnesses of Christ, the Son of God. But for many months they took Jesus for granted, not really listening to him or obeying him.  We also have a privileged position, with knowledge of 2,000 years of church history, availability of the Bible in hundreds of languages and translations, and access to many excellent pastors and speakers.  Yet often we take these for granted.  Remember, with privilege comes responsibility.  Because we are privileged to know so much about Christ, we must be careful to follow him.

(10.24   Old Testament men of God [Wall] such as David and the prophet Isaiah made many God-inspired predictions that Jesus fulfilled.  As Peter later wrote, these prophets wondered what their words meant and when they would be fulfilled (1 Peter 1.10-13).  In Jesus’ words, they “wanted to see what you see” – the coming of God’s [Wall’s] kingdom.)

Jesus’ actions prove who he is:

The beginning of the gospel about Jesus Christ, the Son of God. – Mark 1.1

Mark was not one of the 12 disciples of Jesus, but he probably knew Jesus personally.  Mark wrote his Gospel in the form of a fast-paced story, like a popular novel.  The book portrays Jesus as a man who backed up his words with action that constantly proved who he is – the Son of God.  Because Mark wrote the Gospel for Christians in Rome, where many gods were worshipped, he wanted his readers to know that Jesus is the one true Son of God.

(1.1   When you experience the excitement of a big event, you naturally want to tell someone.  Telling the story can bring back that original thrill as you relive the experience.  Reading Mark’s first words, you can sense his excitement.  Picture yourself in the crowd as Jesus heals and teaches.  Imagine yourself as one of the disciples.  Respond to his words of love and encouragement.  And remember that Jesus came for us who live today as well as for those who lived 2,000 years ago.)

We have enough to believe in Jesus:

The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment with the men of this generation and condemn them; for she came from the ends of the earth to listen to Solomon’s wisdom, and now one greater than Solomon is here. The men of Nineveh will stand up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and now one greater than Jonah is here. – Luke 11.31-32  

The Ninevites and the Queen of the South had turned to God with far less evidence than Jesus was giving his listeners – and far less than we have today. We have eyewitness reports of the risen, Jesus, the continuing power of the Holy Spirit unleashed at Pentecost, easy access to the Bible, and knowledge of 2,000 years of Christ’s acts through his church.  With the knowledge and insight available to us, our response to Christ ought to be even more complete and wholehearted.

Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose  that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written. – John 21:25  

John’s stated purpose for writing his Gospel was to show that Jesus was the Son of God. He clearly and systematically presented the evidence for Jesus’ claims.  When evidence is presented in the courtroom, those who hear it must make a choice.  Those who read the Gospel of John must also make a choice – is Jesus the Son of God, or isn’t he?  You are the jury.  The evidence has been clearly presented.  You must decide.  Read John’s Gospel and believe!

Many won’t believe in Jesus despite it:

For this reason they could not believe, because, as Isaiah says elsewhere: “He has blinded their eyes and deadened their hearts, so they can neither see with their eyes, nor understand with their hearts, nor turn – and I would heal them.” – John 12.39-41  

People in Jesus’s time, like those in the time of Isaiah, would not believe despite the evidence (12.37). As a result, God [Wall] hardened their hearts.  Does that mean God [Wall] intentionally prevented these people from believing in him?  No, he simply confirmed their own choices.  After a lifetime of resisting God [Wall], they had become so set in their ways that they wouldn’t even try to understand Jesus’ message.  For such people, it is virtually impossible to come to God [Wall]  – their hearts have been permanently hardened.  Other instances of hardened hearts because of constant stubbornness are recorded in Exodus 9:12, Romans 1:24-28, and 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12.

Of Jesus’ death:

Now it was the day of Preparation, and the next day was to be a special Sabbath. Because the Jews did not want the bodies left on the crosses during the Sabbath, they asked Pilate to have the legs broken and the bodies taken down.  The soldiers therefore came and broke the legs of the first man who had been crucified with Jesus, and then those of the other.  But when they came to Jesus and found that he was already dead, they did not break his legs.  Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water.  The man who saw it has given testimony, and his testimony is true.  He knows that he tells the truths, and he testifies so that you also may believe.  – John 19.31-35  

These Romans were experienced soldiers. They were from many previous crucifixions whether a man was dead or alive.  There was no question that Jesus was dead when they checked him, so they decided not to break his legs as they had done to the other victims.  Piercing his side and seeing the sudden flow of blood and water (indicating that the sac surrounding the heart and the heart itself had been pierced) was further proof of his death.  Some people say Jesus didn’t really die, that he only fainted – and that’s how he came back to life.  But we have the witness of an impartial party, the Roman soldiers, that Jesus died on the cross (see Mark 15.44, 45).

Of the empty tomb:

(They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.) – John 20.9

Jesus’ resurrection is the key to the Christian faith. Why?  (1) Just as he said, Jesus rose from the dead.  We can be confident, therefore, that he will accomplish all he has promised.  (2) Jesus’ bodily resurrection shows us that the living Christ, not a false prophet or impostor, is ruler of God’s eternal kingdom.  (3) We can be certain of our own resurrection because Jesus was resurrected.  Death is not the end – there is future life.  (4) The divine power that brought Jesus back to life is not available to us to bring our spiritually dead selves back to life.  (5) The resurrection is the basis for the church’s witness to the world.

That God is at work in the world:

But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of this, they tore their clothes and rushed them out into the crowd, shouting – Acts 14.15-18  

Responding to the people of Lystra, Paul and Barnabas reminded them that God never leaves himself “Without testimony”.  Rain and crops, for example, are evidence of his goodness.  Later Paul wrote that this evidence in nature leaves people without an excuse for unbelief (Romans 1.20).  When in doubt about God, look around and you will see abundant evidence that he is at work in our world.

EXTRA:

(It is written in Isaiah the prophet: “I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way” – – Mark 1.2   Jesus came at a time in history when the entire civilised world was relatively peaceful under Roman rule, travel was easy, and there was a common language.  The news about Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection [Aristotle’s Three Acts] could spread quickly throughout the vast Roman empire.  –  In Israel common men and women were ready for Jesus too.  There had been no God-sent prophets for 400 years, since the days of Malachi (who wrote the last book of the Old Testament).  There was growing anticipation that a great prophet, or the Messiah mentioned in the Old Testament, would soon come (see Luke 3.15).)

(‘ … “a voice of one calling in the desert, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’ “  – Mark 1.2, 3   Isaiah was one of the greatest prophets of the Old Testament.  The second half of the book of Isaiah is devoted to the promise of salvation.  Isaiah wrote about the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, and the man who would announce his coming, John the Baptist.  John’s call to “make straight paths for him” meant that people should give up their selfish way of living, renounce the sins, seek God’s [Wall’]s forgiveness [Forget = money up], and establish a relationship with the almighty God [Wall] by believing and obeying his words as found in Scripture (Isaiah 1.18-20; 57.15).)

(Mark 1.2, 3   Mark 1:2, 3 is a composite quotation, taken first from Malachi 3:1 and then from Isaiah 40:3.)

(Mark 1.2, 3   Hundreds of years earlier, the prophet Isaiah had predicted that John the Baptist and Jesus could come.  How did he know?  God [Wall] promised Isaiah that a Redeemer would come to Israel, and that a messenger calling in the desert would prepare the way for him.  Isaiah’s words comforted many people as they looked forward to the Messiah, and knowing that God [Wall] keeps his promises can comfort you too.  As you read the book of Mark, realise that it is more than just a story; it is part of God’s [Wall’s] word.  In it God [Wall] is revealing to you his plans for human history.)

(Mark 11.29-32   The cruel, warlike men of Nineveh, capital of Assyria, repented when Jonah preached to them – and Jonah did not even care about them.  The pagan Queen of the South (Sheba) praised the God of Israel when she heard Solomon’s wisdom, and Solomon was full of faults.  By contrast, Jesus, the perfect Son of God, had come to people that he loved dearly – but they rejected him.  Thus God’s chosen people made themselves more liable to judgment than either a notoriously wicked nation or a powerful pagan queen.  Compare 10:12-15 where Jesus says the evil cities of Sodom, Tyre, and Sidon will be judged less harshly than the cities of Judea and Galilee that rejected Jesus’ message.)

(Mark 11.29, 30   What was the sign of Jonah?  God [Wall] had asked Jonah to preach repentance to the Gentiles (non-Jews).  Jesus was affirming Jonah’s message [Genre: Romance/SciFi].  Salvation is not only for Jews, but for all people.  Matthew 12:40 adds another explanation: Jesus would die and rise after three days, just as the prophet Jonah was rescued after three days in the belly of the great fish.)

(‘   “No-one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden, or under a bowl.  Instead he puts it on its stand, so that those who come in may see the light.  Your eye is the lamp of your body.  When your eyes are good, your whole body also is full of light.  But when they are bad, your body also is full of darkness [Publications].  See to it, then, that the light within you is not darkness.  Therefore, if your whole body is full of light, and no part of it dark, it will be completely lighted, as when the light of a lamp shines on you.”  – Luke 11.33-36   The lamp is Christ; the eye represents spiritual understanding and insight.  Evil desires make the eye less sensitive and blot out the light of Christ’s presence.  If you have a hard time seeing God [Wall] at work in the world and in your life, check your vision.  Are any sinful desires blinding you to Christ?)

(‘   When Peter saw him, he asked, “Lord, what about him?” Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?  You must follow me.”  – John 21.21, 22   Peter asked Jesus how John would die. Jesus replied that Peter should not concern himself with that.  We tend to compare our lives to others, whether to rationalise our own level of devotion to Christ or to question God’ s [Wall’s] justice.  Jesus responds to us as he did to Peter: “What is that to you?  You must follow me.”) [NOTE That “Compare”, not require them to ‘contrast’.]

(.   Because of this, the rumour spread among the brothers that this disciple would not die. But Jesus did not say that he would not die; he only said, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?”  – John 21.23   Early church history reports that after John spent several years as an exile on the island of Patmos, he returned to Ephesus where he died as an old man, near the end of the first century.)

(Even after Jesus had done all these miraculous signs in their presence, they still would not believe in him. This was to fulfil the word of Isaiah the prophet: “Lord, who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?”  – John 12.37, 38. Jesus had performed many miracles, but most people still didn’t believe in him.  Likewise, many today won’t believe despite all God does.  Don’t be discouraged if your witness for Christ doesn’t turn as many to him as you’d like.  Your job is to continue as a faithful witness.  You are responsible to reach out to others, but they are responsible for their own decisions.)

(Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in him. But because of the Pharisees they would not confess their faith for fear they would be put out of the synagogue; for they loved praise from men more than praise from God.  – John 12.42, 43. Along with those who refused to believe, many believed but refused to admit it.  This is just as bad, and Jesus had strong words for such people (see Matthew 10.32, 33).  People who will not take a stand for Jesus are afraid of rejection or ridicule.  Many Jewish leaders wouldn’t admit to faith in Jesus because they feared excommunication from the synagogue (which was their livelihood) and loss of the prestigious place in the community.  But the praise of others is fickle and short-lived.  We should be much more concerned about God’s [Wall’s] eternal acceptance than about the temporary approval of other people.)

(When he looks at me, he sees the one who sent me.  – John 12.45.  We often wonder what God is like.  How can we know the Creator when he doesn’t make himself visible?  Jesus said plainly that those who see him see God, because he is God.  If you want to know what God is like, study the person and words of Jesus Christ.)

(There is a judge for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; that very word which I spoke will condemn him at the last day.  – John 12.48.  The purpose of Jesus’ first mission on earth was not to judge people, but to show them the way to find salvation and eternal life.  When he comes again, one of his main purposes will be to judge people for how they lived on earth.  Christ’s words that we would not accept and obey will condemn us.  On the day of judgment, those who accepted Jesus and lived his way will be raised to eternal life (1 Corinthians 15.51-57; 1 Thessalonians 4.15-18; Revelations 21.1-8), and those who rejected Jesus and lived any way they pleased will face eternal punishment (Revelations 20.11-15).  Decide now which side you’ll be on, for the consequences of your decision last for ever.)

(John 19.31   It was against God’s law to leave the body of a dead person exposed overnight (Deuteronomy 21.23), and it was also against the law to work after sundown on Friday, when the Sabbath began.  This is why the religious leaders urgently wanted to get Jesus’ body off the cross and buried by sundown.)

(John 19.32   The Roman soldiers would break victims’ legs to hasten the death process.  When a person hung on a cross, death came by suffocation, but the victim could push against the cross with his legs to hold up his body and keep breathing.  With broken legs, he would suffocate almost immediately.

(John 19.34, 35   The graphic details of Jesus’ death are especially important in John’s record because he was an eyewitness.

(These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled: “Not one of his bones will be broken,” and, as another scripture says, “They will look on the one they have pierced.”  – John 19.36, 37.  Jesus died as the lambs for the Passover meal were being slain.  Not a bone was to be broken in these sacrificial lambs (Exodus 12.46; Numbers 9.12).  Jesus, the Lamb of God, was the perfect sacrifice for the sins of the world (1 Corinthians 5.7). )

(John 20.9   As further proof that the disciples did not fabricate this story, we find that Peter and John were surprised that Jesus was not in the tomb.  When John saw the graveclothes looking like an empty cocoon from which Jesus had emerged, he believed that Jesus had risen.  It wasn’t until they had seen the empty tomb that they remembered what the Scriptures and Jesus had said – he would die, but he would also rise again!)

(‘   as well as the burial cloth that had been around Jesus’ head. The cloth was folded up by itself, separate from the linen.  – John 20.7   The graveclothes were left as if Jesu shad passed right through them.  The headpiece was still rolled up in the shape of a head, and it was at about the right distance from the wrappings that had enveloped Jesus’ body.  A grave robber couldn’t possibly have made off with Jesus’ body and left the linens as if they were still shaped around it.)

(‘   Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet returned to the Father [up]. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am returning to my Father [up] and your Father, to my God [Wall] and your God [Wall].’ “  – John 20.17   Mary did not want to lose Jesus again.  She had not yet understood the resurrection.  Perhaps she thought this was his promised second coming (14.3).  But Jesus did not want to be detained at the tomb.  If he did not ascend to heaven, the Holy Spirit could not come.  Both he and Mary had important work to do.)

(‘   Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!” And she told them that he had said these things to her.  – John 20.18   Mary didn’t recognise Jesus at first.  Her grief had blinded her; she couldn’t see him because she didn’t expect to see him.  Then he spoke her name, and immediately she recognised him.  Imagine the love that flooded her heart when she heard her Saviour saying her name.  Jesus is near you, and he is calling your name.  Can you, like Mary, regard him as your Lord?)

(When the crowd saw what Paul had done, they shouted in the Lycaonian language, “The gods have come down to us in human form!” Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul they called Hermes because he was the chief speaker.  – Acts 14.11, 12. Zeus and Hermes (also known as Jupiter and Mercury) were two popular gods in the Roman world.  People from Lystra claimed that these gods had once visited their city.  According to legend, no-one offered them hospitality except an old couple, so Zeus and Hermes killed the rest of the people and rewarded the old couple.  When the citizens of Lystra saw the miracles of Paul and Barnabas, they assumed that the gods were revisiting them.  Remembering the story of what had happened to the previous citizens, they immediately honoured Paul and Barnabas and showered them with gifts.)

(‘ Even with these words, they had difficulty keeping the crowd from sacrificing to them. Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over.  They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead.  – Acts 14.18, 19   Only days after the people in Lystra had thought that Paul and Barnabas were gods and wanted to offer sacrifices to them, they stoned Paul and left him for dead.  That’s human nature.  Jesus understood how fickle crowds can be (John 2.24, 25).  When many people approve of us, we feel good, but that should never cloud our thinking or affect our decisions.  We should not live to please the crowd – especially in our spiritual lives.  Be like Jesus.  Know the nature of the crowd and don’t put your trust in it.  Put your trust in God [Wall] alone.)

Why “eye for eye” rule was instituted:

‘   eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, bruise for bruise.  –  Exodus 21.24-25

The “eye for eye” rule was instituted as a guide for judges, not as a rule for personal relationships or to justify revenge. This rule made the punishment fit the crime, thereby preventing the cruel and barbaric punishments that characterised many ancient countries.  Jesus used this principle to teach us not to retaliate (Matthew 5.28-48).  Judges, parents, teachers, and others who work with people must make wise decisions in order for discipline to be effective.  A punishment too harsh is unfair, and one too lenient is powerless to teach.  Ask God [Wall] for wisdom before you judge.

EXTRA

(‘   The people remained at a distance, whole Moses approached the thick darkness where God [Wall] was.   – Exodus 21.1ff  These laws were given because everything we do has consequences.  It is vital to think before acting, to consider the effects of our choices.  Think of your plans for today and consider what their long-term results will be.  As we deal with others, we should keep the principles of these laws in mind.  We should act responsibly and justify with all people – friends and enemies alike.)

(‘   “If you buy a Hebrew servant, he is to serve you for six years. But in the seventh year, he shall go free, without paying anything.  – Exodus 21.2   The Hebrews, though freed from slavery, had slaves (or servants) themselves.  A person could become a slave because of poverty, debt, or even crime.  But Hebrew slaves were treated as humans, not property, and were allowed to work their way to freedom.  The Bible acknowledges the existence of slavery but never encourages it.)

(‘ “If a man steals an ox or a sheep and slaughters it or sells it, he must pay back five head of cattle for the ox and four sheep for the sheep.  – Exodus 22.1ff   These are not a collection of picky laws but are case studies of God’s [Wall’s] principles in action.  God [Wall] was taking potential situations and showing how his laws would work in the Israelites’ everyday lives.  These case studies had several objectives: (1) to protect the nation, (2) to organise the nation, and (3) to focus the nation’s attention on God [Wall].  The laws listed here do not cover every possible situation but give practical examples that make it easier to decide what God [Wall] wants.)

(‘   but if it happens after sunrise, he is guilty of bloodshed. “A thief must certainly make restitution, but if he has nothing, he must be sold to pay for his theft.  – Exodus 22.3ff   Throughout Chapter 22 we find examples of the principle of restitution – making wrongs right.  For example, if a man stole an animal, he had to repay double the beast’s market value.  If you have done someone wrong, perhaps you should go beyond what is expected to make things right.  This will (1) help ease any pain you’ve caused, (2) help the other person be more forgiving, and (3) make you more likely to think before you do it again.)