"Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord." (Phil 3:8)
SOME THINGS ARE "LOST" because they are taken away by someone else. Scripture calls this "the spoiling of your goods" (Heb 10:34). It is when a person is plundered or robbed, when possessions are forcefully taken from him against his will. But this is NOT the kind of loss to which our text refers. Here, things were "counted" or "considered" a loss. They were actually still available to Paul, but he forfeited them in preference of something else. He lost them by choice. He chose to take hold of something else.
THE WORD "LOSS" also carries the thought of disadvantage, something that worsens our situation. In this case Paul takes "everything" apart from Christ, regardless of its seeming value, and considers it a loss, disadvantage, and something potentially damaging.
THIS IS NOT INTENDED to be an academic definition. Rather, it is a comparison--a judgment made when "everything" else is laid along side "the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord." Paul has already told us this was his manner of thinking when his life in Christ began (verse 7). Now he tells us it is still the way he thinks. In the world, it is possible to get swept up in momentary pleasures, forgetting essential and profitable things. When we then come to our senses, we regret that we were so distracted as to forget important matters. But this is not the situation in this text. The things counted loss were REALLY inferior and unworthy of being at the center of our thinking. Something better in every sense of the word has been found.
AND WHAT IS THE BETTER THING? It is "the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord." It is "the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord." This "knowledge" is not surpassing or more excellent in appearance, but in reality. It is a superior knowledge and experience with which nothing can favorably compare. Here we see a person can be in Christ and acknowledge Him as Lord, yet be lacking in personal acquaintance with Christ. Redemption has made Jesus more accessible to the saved than ordinarily conceived. Far too much contemporary religion allows the individual to remain at a comfortable distance from Christ, not coming into the greatness of the knowledge and fellowship available to us.
"THE KNOWLEDGE OF JESUS CHRIST" is not scholastic knowledge or erudition. Such knowledge does not satiate the soul or gladden the heart. This is fellowship with Christ, into which we have been called (1 Cor 1:9). It speaks of a relationship where Christ "manifests" Himself to the individual (John 14:21). It is where the individual actually "learns" from Christ (Matt 11:29) and is "taught by Him" (Eph 4:21). This is transforming and empowering knowledge.
THERE IS A SATISFACTION in this knowledge that brings great peace, joy, and stability to the soul. It equips the person to live triumphantly in this world, serving the Lord with gladness and singleness of heart. This knowledge is, in fact, nothing less than "eternal life" (John 17:3; 1 John 5:20). It is confirmed to be the superior knowledge by experience alone. This is the knowledge referenced in Ephesians 3:19: "And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge." It is the personal and revitalizing experience of Christ's love.
– Given O. Blakely
Friday, April 30, 2010
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
GAIN TO ME, LOSS FOR CHRIST
"But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ." (Phil 3:7, KJV)
IT IS ESSENTIAL TO NOTE the things that were "gain" to Paul were not health, wealth, social status, academic achievements, or political successes. Everything he mentions had to do with revealed religion. He was born into a God-chosen nation. From the very first, his parents presented him to the Lord in obedience. His chosen vocation was a spiritual one. He excelled in that pursuit. He personally gave himself to the zealous opposition of those he perceived to be the enemies of God's chosen people. He also engaged in an unrelenting pursuit of personal righteousness, as defined by God's Law.
IF IT WAS POSSIBLE for "flesh" to be approved by God, surely Paul would have gained such approbation. At once we see how utterly foolish it is to claim superiority upon the basis of social, political, or philosophical excellence. It is unfortunate that such measures of superiority have penetrated the church. Men are actually held out as possessing "gain" because of achievements wholly unrelated to revealed religion. They are honored for things that have little or nothing to do with obeying God or pursuing righteousness. If flesh cannot boast at the level of Jewish superiority, it certainly cannot be the basis for confidence at even lesser levels.
WHEN PAUL SAYS "WERE gain to me," he views himself when apart from Christ. It is another way of saying self-centered. Coming into Christ brings a whole new definition of "gain" or benefit. Paul here refers to temporal, NOT eternal, gain. Jesus spoke of this kind of "gain." "For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" (Matt 16:26). Salvation radically changes our ideas of gain, profit, and advantage.
"I COUNTED LOSS FOR CHRIST." Moses also had the perspective Paul reveals in this text. It is said of him, "Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt" (Heb 11:26). By saying "I counted," Paul refers to his personal evaluation of the circumstance. His determination to gain Christ involved judgment and a decision. He was faced with the temporary gains of the flesh, or the gain of eternal life. Once seen, he judged matters relating to the flesh as worthless, zealously discarding them.
THE WORD "LOSS" is an especially strong one. It means Paul let these things go, refusing to allow them to capture his attention. It also means he saw they were competitive, and damaging to the soul. In other words, Christ could not be possessed while retaining a hold on those "things." To gain Christ, all fleshly emphases and distinctions must be forfeited. It is only to the degree this takes place that the individual is capable of appropriating Jesus.
THIS PERSPECTIVE not common in churches with whom I have been affiliated. I fear the world is courted more than Jesus, and appearance is valued more than spiritual substance. Scarcely can a religious person of renown be found that is not distinguished by the flesh. Such a stance excludes one from Divine fellowship, robbing the soul of gaining Christ Jesus. A fellowship with Christ simply cannot be had while a priority is placed on "the flesh." Confidence in flesh cannot exist simultaneously with faith in Christ. They are opposed to each other, and aggressively so. If a person is to gain Christ, a judgment will have to be made concerning temporary gain, or advantages. What is a person willing to keep at the expense of losing his own soul?
– Given O. Blakely
IT IS ESSENTIAL TO NOTE the things that were "gain" to Paul were not health, wealth, social status, academic achievements, or political successes. Everything he mentions had to do with revealed religion. He was born into a God-chosen nation. From the very first, his parents presented him to the Lord in obedience. His chosen vocation was a spiritual one. He excelled in that pursuit. He personally gave himself to the zealous opposition of those he perceived to be the enemies of God's chosen people. He also engaged in an unrelenting pursuit of personal righteousness, as defined by God's Law.
IF IT WAS POSSIBLE for "flesh" to be approved by God, surely Paul would have gained such approbation. At once we see how utterly foolish it is to claim superiority upon the basis of social, political, or philosophical excellence. It is unfortunate that such measures of superiority have penetrated the church. Men are actually held out as possessing "gain" because of achievements wholly unrelated to revealed religion. They are honored for things that have little or nothing to do with obeying God or pursuing righteousness. If flesh cannot boast at the level of Jewish superiority, it certainly cannot be the basis for confidence at even lesser levels.
WHEN PAUL SAYS "WERE gain to me," he views himself when apart from Christ. It is another way of saying self-centered. Coming into Christ brings a whole new definition of "gain" or benefit. Paul here refers to temporal, NOT eternal, gain. Jesus spoke of this kind of "gain." "For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" (Matt 16:26). Salvation radically changes our ideas of gain, profit, and advantage.
"I COUNTED LOSS FOR CHRIST." Moses also had the perspective Paul reveals in this text. It is said of him, "Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt" (Heb 11:26). By saying "I counted," Paul refers to his personal evaluation of the circumstance. His determination to gain Christ involved judgment and a decision. He was faced with the temporary gains of the flesh, or the gain of eternal life. Once seen, he judged matters relating to the flesh as worthless, zealously discarding them.
THE WORD "LOSS" is an especially strong one. It means Paul let these things go, refusing to allow them to capture his attention. It also means he saw they were competitive, and damaging to the soul. In other words, Christ could not be possessed while retaining a hold on those "things." To gain Christ, all fleshly emphases and distinctions must be forfeited. It is only to the degree this takes place that the individual is capable of appropriating Jesus.
THIS PERSPECTIVE not common in churches with whom I have been affiliated. I fear the world is courted more than Jesus, and appearance is valued more than spiritual substance. Scarcely can a religious person of renown be found that is not distinguished by the flesh. Such a stance excludes one from Divine fellowship, robbing the soul of gaining Christ Jesus. A fellowship with Christ simply cannot be had while a priority is placed on "the flesh." Confidence in flesh cannot exist simultaneously with faith in Christ. They are opposed to each other, and aggressively so. If a person is to gain Christ, a judgment will have to be made concerning temporary gain, or advantages. What is a person willing to keep at the expense of losing his own soul?
– Given O. Blakely
Monday, April 26, 2010
ENTHRONEMENT and RESURRECTION
" . . . He would raise up Christ to sit on his throne. He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ" (Acts 2:29-31)
DO NOT MISS THE POINT OF REFERENCE. It is God raising up a promised Seed to sit upon David's throne. David received this commitment from the Lord, and believed it! "And it shall come to pass . . . I will raise up thy seed after . . . and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build me an house, and I will stablish his throne for ever" (1 Chron 17:11-12). "The LORD hath sworn [in] truth unto David; He will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne" (Psa 132:11). Peter, under the influence of the Holy Spirit, who "searches all things, yea the deep things of God" (1 Cor 2:10), relates this prophecy to the resurrection of Christ. He does not associate the prophecy with a coming kingdom, a future golden age, or the removal of the church from the earth. Those are all human interpretations. Consequently, they are all to be abandoned in favor of the commentary of the Holy Spirit. Neither, indeed, does point to Solomon and the building of the temple as a fulfillment of the promise. He declared One that was "greater than Solomon." Thus, Jesus is called "the Seed of David"(John 7:42; Rom 1:3; 2 Tim 2:8).
ISAIAH ALSO PROPHESIED OF THE COMING SEED that would be exalted to David's throne. He related it to the birth of a Child, not the coming of a glorified Christ. "For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder . . . Of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this" (Isa 9:7).
ISAIAH'S PROPHECY IS ASSOCIATED WITH CHRIST'S INCARNATION, not when He appears "the second time," as some suppose. Scripture presents the enfleshment of Jesus as commencing with Him volunteering to "come" to do God's redemptive will (Heb 10:5-10). His exaltation to heaven effectualizes our salvation: i.e., we are being saved "by His life" (Rom 5:9-10). Peter relates this exaltation with the Davidic promise. Elsewhere, the Spirit relates it to the current intercession of Christ in heaven. "Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them" (Heb 7:25).
THE THRONE TO WHICH JESUS HAS BEEN EXALTED is not upon earth. Thrones here cannot be forever, for the earth is destined for destruction (2 Pet 3:10-13). God promised an eternal throne The Word of God is clear on this subject: Jesus is currently glorified, or exalted, and that exaltation is related to the promised Seed for David's throne! "Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, He would raise up Christ to sit on his throne . . . spake of the resurrection of Christ" (Acts 2:30-31). The promise given to David by the Holy Spirit was claimed by Jesus when He sat down on the right hand of God. "Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit . . . " (Acts 2:33).
PETER BOLDLY ANNOUNCES that Jesus is the fulfillment of the promised King and Seed of David. He, and He alone, is the exalted Ruler, and the One appointed to execute the salvational purpose of God. "Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ" (Acts 2:36).
– Given O. Blakely
DO NOT MISS THE POINT OF REFERENCE. It is God raising up a promised Seed to sit upon David's throne. David received this commitment from the Lord, and believed it! "And it shall come to pass . . . I will raise up thy seed after . . . and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build me an house, and I will stablish his throne for ever" (1 Chron 17:11-12). "The LORD hath sworn [in] truth unto David; He will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne" (Psa 132:11). Peter, under the influence of the Holy Spirit, who "searches all things, yea the deep things of God" (1 Cor 2:10), relates this prophecy to the resurrection of Christ. He does not associate the prophecy with a coming kingdom, a future golden age, or the removal of the church from the earth. Those are all human interpretations. Consequently, they are all to be abandoned in favor of the commentary of the Holy Spirit. Neither, indeed, does point to Solomon and the building of the temple as a fulfillment of the promise. He declared One that was "greater than Solomon." Thus, Jesus is called "the Seed of David"(John 7:42; Rom 1:3; 2 Tim 2:8).
ISAIAH ALSO PROPHESIED OF THE COMING SEED that would be exalted to David's throne. He related it to the birth of a Child, not the coming of a glorified Christ. "For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder . . . Of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this" (Isa 9:7).
ISAIAH'S PROPHECY IS ASSOCIATED WITH CHRIST'S INCARNATION, not when He appears "the second time," as some suppose. Scripture presents the enfleshment of Jesus as commencing with Him volunteering to "come" to do God's redemptive will (Heb 10:5-10). His exaltation to heaven effectualizes our salvation: i.e., we are being saved "by His life" (Rom 5:9-10). Peter relates this exaltation with the Davidic promise. Elsewhere, the Spirit relates it to the current intercession of Christ in heaven. "Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them" (Heb 7:25).
THE THRONE TO WHICH JESUS HAS BEEN EXALTED is not upon earth. Thrones here cannot be forever, for the earth is destined for destruction (2 Pet 3:10-13). God promised an eternal throne The Word of God is clear on this subject: Jesus is currently glorified, or exalted, and that exaltation is related to the promised Seed for David's throne! "Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, He would raise up Christ to sit on his throne . . . spake of the resurrection of Christ" (Acts 2:30-31). The promise given to David by the Holy Spirit was claimed by Jesus when He sat down on the right hand of God. "Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit . . . " (Acts 2:33).
PETER BOLDLY ANNOUNCES that Jesus is the fulfillment of the promised King and Seed of David. He, and He alone, is the exalted Ruler, and the One appointed to execute the salvational purpose of God. "Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ" (Acts 2:36).
– Given O. Blakely
Friday, April 23, 2010
HEAD OVER ALL THINGS
"And He has put all things under His feet and has made Him the Head over all things FOR the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all" (Eph 1:23, NRSV).
JESUS IS THE "HEAD OF THE CHURCH" and the "Savior of the body" (Eph 5:23). He is responsible for "bringing many sons to glory" (Heb 2:10), and bring them He shall! He has been given "power over all flesh" to do so! He has been exalted over all opposing forces so God's purpose will not fail of fulfillment. His personal zeal will accomplish this (Isa 9:7).
CHRIST IS NOT "HEAD OVER ALL THINGS" FOR THE JEWS, but "for the church!" It is the "church" which Jesus "loved," and for which He died (Eph 5:25). God has given Jesus to the church in this capacity; as "Head over all things." And why so? So that He might give it "eternal life" -- eternal life in its fulness, as well as its firstfruits sense. There are inimical powers that are determined to bring us down; but Christ is their Head. He has already utterly defeated them, triumphing over them in His cross (Col 2:15). He will see to it that all who trust in Him will also experience final and complete victory over all the power of the enemy.
THIS MEANS "no testing has overtaken you that is not common to everyone. God is faithful, and He will not let you be tested beyond your strength, but with the testing He will also provide the way out so that you may be able to endure it" (1 Cor 10:13, NRSV). Working through your faith, the enthroned Savior will open the door of escape, so you may become strong through testing and not be overcome by it. It takes "all power in heaven and earth" to accomplish this! Deliverance from temptation is a far greater accomplishment than men are prone to think!
THE MINISTRATION OF GRACE AND PEACE. Grace and peace come to us from God and Christ – from God by purpose, from Jesus by authority. "Grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior" (Titus 1:4, NRSV). "Grace, mercy, and peace will be with us from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, in truth and love" (2 John 1:3, NRSV). Grace is God's favor, and it comes to us because Jesus has received "power over all flesh."
WHEN GRACE IS RECEIVED, we are well pleasing to God. We are also effectively taught"to renounce impiety and worldly passions, and in the present age to live lives that are self-controlled, upright, and godly" (Titus 2:12, NRSV). Peace keeps our hearts and minds from being dislodged by the onslaughts of the devil. We are stabilized by it, thereby being equipped to make progress even though confronted by apparently insurmountable odds. "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Phil 4:7, NSRV). It takes an exalted Christ to accomplish this!
HOW GLORIOUS IS THE ANNOUNCEMENT of Christ's exaltation. "Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto Him" (1 Pet 3:22). This is power to bring eternal life to us. It is power to bring to us "all things that pertain to life and godliness" (2 Pet 1:3). He gives "eternal life" to us by giving us an understanding of God (1 John 5:20), by manifesting Himself to us (John 14:21), and by enabling us to "lay hold on eternal life." His power can rest upon us, sustaining us, and enabling us to hold up under great affliction (2 Cor 12:9). Because He has been exalted, His "mighty power" can work within us for God's glory (Eph 1:19).
– Given O. Blakely
JESUS IS THE "HEAD OF THE CHURCH" and the "Savior of the body" (Eph 5:23). He is responsible for "bringing many sons to glory" (Heb 2:10), and bring them He shall! He has been given "power over all flesh" to do so! He has been exalted over all opposing forces so God's purpose will not fail of fulfillment. His personal zeal will accomplish this (Isa 9:7).
CHRIST IS NOT "HEAD OVER ALL THINGS" FOR THE JEWS, but "for the church!" It is the "church" which Jesus "loved," and for which He died (Eph 5:25). God has given Jesus to the church in this capacity; as "Head over all things." And why so? So that He might give it "eternal life" -- eternal life in its fulness, as well as its firstfruits sense. There are inimical powers that are determined to bring us down; but Christ is their Head. He has already utterly defeated them, triumphing over them in His cross (Col 2:15). He will see to it that all who trust in Him will also experience final and complete victory over all the power of the enemy.
THIS MEANS "no testing has overtaken you that is not common to everyone. God is faithful, and He will not let you be tested beyond your strength, but with the testing He will also provide the way out so that you may be able to endure it" (1 Cor 10:13, NRSV). Working through your faith, the enthroned Savior will open the door of escape, so you may become strong through testing and not be overcome by it. It takes "all power in heaven and earth" to accomplish this! Deliverance from temptation is a far greater accomplishment than men are prone to think!
THE MINISTRATION OF GRACE AND PEACE. Grace and peace come to us from God and Christ – from God by purpose, from Jesus by authority. "Grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior" (Titus 1:4, NRSV). "Grace, mercy, and peace will be with us from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, in truth and love" (2 John 1:3, NRSV). Grace is God's favor, and it comes to us because Jesus has received "power over all flesh."
WHEN GRACE IS RECEIVED, we are well pleasing to God. We are also effectively taught"to renounce impiety and worldly passions, and in the present age to live lives that are self-controlled, upright, and godly" (Titus 2:12, NRSV). Peace keeps our hearts and minds from being dislodged by the onslaughts of the devil. We are stabilized by it, thereby being equipped to make progress even though confronted by apparently insurmountable odds. "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Phil 4:7, NSRV). It takes an exalted Christ to accomplish this!
HOW GLORIOUS IS THE ANNOUNCEMENT of Christ's exaltation. "Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto Him" (1 Pet 3:22). This is power to bring eternal life to us. It is power to bring to us "all things that pertain to life and godliness" (2 Pet 1:3). He gives "eternal life" to us by giving us an understanding of God (1 John 5:20), by manifesting Himself to us (John 14:21), and by enabling us to "lay hold on eternal life." His power can rest upon us, sustaining us, and enabling us to hold up under great affliction (2 Cor 12:9). Because He has been exalted, His "mighty power" can work within us for God's glory (Eph 1:19).
– Given O. Blakely
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
FINDING FAVOR WITH GOD
"And if thou deal thus with me, kill me, I pray thee, out of hand, if I have found favor in Thy sight; and let me not see my wretchedness." (Num 11:15)
THE LAW HAD BEEN GIVEN, the tabernacle and its furniture constructed, and the manner of Israel's appointed journeying established. The ark of the covenant was to go before them, and "the cloud of the Lord was upon them when they went out of the camp." When the cloud moved, the people were to pack up and move out immediately, with the ark of the covenant going before them. When the ark was carried forward, Moses said, "Rise up, LORD, and let thine enemies be scattered; and let them that hate thee flee before thee." When it was set down, he said, "Return, O LORD, unto the many thousands of Israel" (Num 10:34-36).
ISRAEL HAD JOURNEYED THREE DAYS from Mount Sinai. They began to complain, forgetful of the great deliverance they had experienced. Their complaining greatly displeased the Lord, and "His anger was aroused. So the fire of the LORD burned among them, and consumed some in the outskirts of the camp." The people cried out to Moses, "and when Moses prayed to the LORD, the fire was quenched" (11:1-2). Not much time passed until Israel began to crave meat, growing discontent with the manna sent daily to them. They said their whole beings were dried up, and all they could see was manna. They began weeping throughout their families, everyone at the door of their tents, "and the anger of the LORD was greatly aroused; Moses also was displeased."
IT WAS MORE THAN MOSES COULD BEAR. He called out to the Lord, "Wherefore hast thou afflicted Thy servant? and wherefore have I not found favor in Thy sight, that thou layest the burden of all this people upon me?" How grievous must be the people who drove the meekest man in all the earth to speak in such a way! With great lament Moses said, "I am not able to bear all this people alone, because it is too heavy for me." Who is able to measure the impact these recalcitrant people had upon this faithful servant of God? (11:3-14).IT WAS AT THIS POINT that our text occurs. The NASB reads, "So if Thou art going to deal thus with me, please kill me at once, if I have found favor in Thy sight, and do not let me see my wretchedness." You may remember that Elijah prayed a similar prayer, asking for God to take his life (1 Kings 19:4). How tragic that the very people to whom leaders and prophets are sent often cause them such great grief!
THERE IS THE GLIMMER OF FAITH, however, in Moses' petition. His great distress and frustration did not cause his faith to die. "If I have found favor in Thy sight," he pled. He appealed to his walk, his response to the Lord, and his manner of life. He did not want to sink lower than he already felt. He did not want to see his own "wretchedness." In other words, he did not want to be crushed by this people, finally dishonoring his God. A noble request indeed, and the Lord hearkened to it, giving him seventy competent men of Israel to share the load created by this burdensome people (11:16).
THERE IS A GREAT LESSON TO BE LEARNED HERE. When our troubles become very burdensome, and too difficult to bear, we must know how to approach the Lord on the matter. First, we should not ask God to do things for us if we have been displeasing to Him. Second, we should seek to avoid being brought down further into the quagmire of despair. Just as surely as God answered Moses with relief, so will He do for you! That is something your faith must grasp.
– Given O. Blakely
THE LAW HAD BEEN GIVEN, the tabernacle and its furniture constructed, and the manner of Israel's appointed journeying established. The ark of the covenant was to go before them, and "the cloud of the Lord was upon them when they went out of the camp." When the cloud moved, the people were to pack up and move out immediately, with the ark of the covenant going before them. When the ark was carried forward, Moses said, "Rise up, LORD, and let thine enemies be scattered; and let them that hate thee flee before thee." When it was set down, he said, "Return, O LORD, unto the many thousands of Israel" (Num 10:34-36).
ISRAEL HAD JOURNEYED THREE DAYS from Mount Sinai. They began to complain, forgetful of the great deliverance they had experienced. Their complaining greatly displeased the Lord, and "His anger was aroused. So the fire of the LORD burned among them, and consumed some in the outskirts of the camp." The people cried out to Moses, "and when Moses prayed to the LORD, the fire was quenched" (11:1-2). Not much time passed until Israel began to crave meat, growing discontent with the manna sent daily to them. They said their whole beings were dried up, and all they could see was manna. They began weeping throughout their families, everyone at the door of their tents, "and the anger of the LORD was greatly aroused; Moses also was displeased."
IT WAS MORE THAN MOSES COULD BEAR. He called out to the Lord, "Wherefore hast thou afflicted Thy servant? and wherefore have I not found favor in Thy sight, that thou layest the burden of all this people upon me?" How grievous must be the people who drove the meekest man in all the earth to speak in such a way! With great lament Moses said, "I am not able to bear all this people alone, because it is too heavy for me." Who is able to measure the impact these recalcitrant people had upon this faithful servant of God? (11:3-14).IT WAS AT THIS POINT that our text occurs. The NASB reads, "So if Thou art going to deal thus with me, please kill me at once, if I have found favor in Thy sight, and do not let me see my wretchedness." You may remember that Elijah prayed a similar prayer, asking for God to take his life (1 Kings 19:4). How tragic that the very people to whom leaders and prophets are sent often cause them such great grief!
THERE IS THE GLIMMER OF FAITH, however, in Moses' petition. His great distress and frustration did not cause his faith to die. "If I have found favor in Thy sight," he pled. He appealed to his walk, his response to the Lord, and his manner of life. He did not want to sink lower than he already felt. He did not want to see his own "wretchedness." In other words, he did not want to be crushed by this people, finally dishonoring his God. A noble request indeed, and the Lord hearkened to it, giving him seventy competent men of Israel to share the load created by this burdensome people (11:16).
THERE IS A GREAT LESSON TO BE LEARNED HERE. When our troubles become very burdensome, and too difficult to bear, we must know how to approach the Lord on the matter. First, we should not ask God to do things for us if we have been displeasing to Him. Second, we should seek to avoid being brought down further into the quagmire of despair. Just as surely as God answered Moses with relief, so will He do for you! That is something your faith must grasp.
– Given O. Blakely
Friday, April 16, 2010
A SOUND IN THE TREES
"Therefore David inquired of the LORD, and He said, You shall not go up; circle around behind them, and come upon them in front of the mulberry trees. And it shall be, when you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the mulberry trees, then you shall advance quickly. For then the LORD will go out before you to strike the camp of the Philistines." (2 Samuel 5:23-24; 1 Chron 14:14-15, NKJV)
THOSE WHO WALK WITH GOD are certainly not confined to conventionality–just normal conditions. Sometimes the saints are involved in most unusual things–matters in which the flesh cannot boast. Thus God showed Moses a tree that was to be cut down and thrown into some bitter waters, in order to sweeten them (Ex 15:25). Elisha threw come meal in a pot containing poison vegetables, thus healing the food (2 Kings 4:41). By Divine direction, Moses made a bronze serpent so people mortally wounded by venomous snakes could be healed by simply looking upon it (Num 21:8-9). During a famine, Elijah was brought bread and flesh every morning and evening by ravens (1 Kgs 17:4-6). Jesus anointed a blind man's eyes with clay made from His own spittle, telling him to wash in the pool of Siloam for healing (John 9:6-7). Those with a disdain for unconventionality will certainly have very limited, if any, spiritual experience.
THE TEXT BEFORE US DEALS WITH another unusual and unconventional experience. David had just been anointed king of Israel, and their enemies, the Philistines, heard about it. The Scriptures tell us that "all the Philistines came up to seek David." Hearing of it, David "went down to the stronghold," where protection was found. In a display of their formidable aggression, the Philistines "came and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim." It was a most intimidating situation.
DAVID DID NOT RELY on his own military prowess, or on the strength of his armies. He made no delay in placing this matter before the Lord. He asked the Lord, "Shall I go up to the Philistines? wilt thou deliver them into mine hand?" Without delay the Lord responded, "Go up: for I will doubtless deliver the Philistines into thine hand." Going up in the strength of the Lord, David and his army soundly defeated the Philistines. Of the occasion David said, "The LORD hath broken forth upon mine enemies before me, as the breach of waters."
IN THEIR FLIGHT, the Philistines left their idolatrous images behind. With dispatch, "David and his men burned them." Surely this would be the end of Philistine aggression!
BUT THE WICKED AND TENACIOUS Philistines did not stop their aggression against David and his armies. Those who imagine the enemies of God's people give up easily, need to rethink the matter. The text continues, "And the Philistines came up yet again, and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim." The reaction of David to this show of force is most edifying.
ALREADY HE HAD ROUTED THE ENEMY. Flesh would reason it could easily be done again. After all, the superiority obviously belonged to Israel–at least that is what flesh would think. It is not, however, how a man of God thinks. Immediately "David inquired of the Lord" about the matter. This time, the answer was not the same. God responded, "Thou shalt NOT go up." This time, the tactic would be different. Of course, if David had not inquired of the Lord, he would never have known.
THIS TIME, THE LORD SAID, "circle around behind them, and come upon them in front of the mulberry trees. And it shall be, when you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the mulberry trees, then you shall advance quickly. For then the LORD will go out before you to strike the camp of the Philistines." When David did as the Lord commanded him, listening and moving quickly, he "smote the Philistines from Geba until thou come to Gazer" (2 Sam 5:17-25).
NOTE THE SENSITIVITY of the man after God's own heart. He did not take victory for granted, even after a successful battle. He carefully inquired of the Lord before engaging in battle. Too, he had to listen carefully for sounds in the top of the mulberry trees. His attention could not be drawn away to the valley of Rephaim and the sight of the Philistine armies. Again, he had to move quickly, as soon as the declared sign was detected. Thus he experienced victory again.
THERE ARE SOME IMPORTANT PRINCIPLES of spiritual life seen in this text. First, dependency upon God is to be consistent. Second, keen spiritual attentiveness and hearing are required. Third, we must learn to move quickly when the presence of the Lord is detected. Precious lessons, indeed!
– Given O. Blakely
THOSE WHO WALK WITH GOD are certainly not confined to conventionality–just normal conditions. Sometimes the saints are involved in most unusual things–matters in which the flesh cannot boast. Thus God showed Moses a tree that was to be cut down and thrown into some bitter waters, in order to sweeten them (Ex 15:25). Elisha threw come meal in a pot containing poison vegetables, thus healing the food (2 Kings 4:41). By Divine direction, Moses made a bronze serpent so people mortally wounded by venomous snakes could be healed by simply looking upon it (Num 21:8-9). During a famine, Elijah was brought bread and flesh every morning and evening by ravens (1 Kgs 17:4-6). Jesus anointed a blind man's eyes with clay made from His own spittle, telling him to wash in the pool of Siloam for healing (John 9:6-7). Those with a disdain for unconventionality will certainly have very limited, if any, spiritual experience.
THE TEXT BEFORE US DEALS WITH another unusual and unconventional experience. David had just been anointed king of Israel, and their enemies, the Philistines, heard about it. The Scriptures tell us that "all the Philistines came up to seek David." Hearing of it, David "went down to the stronghold," where protection was found. In a display of their formidable aggression, the Philistines "came and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim." It was a most intimidating situation.
DAVID DID NOT RELY on his own military prowess, or on the strength of his armies. He made no delay in placing this matter before the Lord. He asked the Lord, "Shall I go up to the Philistines? wilt thou deliver them into mine hand?" Without delay the Lord responded, "Go up: for I will doubtless deliver the Philistines into thine hand." Going up in the strength of the Lord, David and his army soundly defeated the Philistines. Of the occasion David said, "The LORD hath broken forth upon mine enemies before me, as the breach of waters."
IN THEIR FLIGHT, the Philistines left their idolatrous images behind. With dispatch, "David and his men burned them." Surely this would be the end of Philistine aggression!
BUT THE WICKED AND TENACIOUS Philistines did not stop their aggression against David and his armies. Those who imagine the enemies of God's people give up easily, need to rethink the matter. The text continues, "And the Philistines came up yet again, and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim." The reaction of David to this show of force is most edifying.
ALREADY HE HAD ROUTED THE ENEMY. Flesh would reason it could easily be done again. After all, the superiority obviously belonged to Israel–at least that is what flesh would think. It is not, however, how a man of God thinks. Immediately "David inquired of the Lord" about the matter. This time, the answer was not the same. God responded, "Thou shalt NOT go up." This time, the tactic would be different. Of course, if David had not inquired of the Lord, he would never have known.
THIS TIME, THE LORD SAID, "circle around behind them, and come upon them in front of the mulberry trees. And it shall be, when you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the mulberry trees, then you shall advance quickly. For then the LORD will go out before you to strike the camp of the Philistines." When David did as the Lord commanded him, listening and moving quickly, he "smote the Philistines from Geba until thou come to Gazer" (2 Sam 5:17-25).
NOTE THE SENSITIVITY of the man after God's own heart. He did not take victory for granted, even after a successful battle. He carefully inquired of the Lord before engaging in battle. Too, he had to listen carefully for sounds in the top of the mulberry trees. His attention could not be drawn away to the valley of Rephaim and the sight of the Philistine armies. Again, he had to move quickly, as soon as the declared sign was detected. Thus he experienced victory again.
THERE ARE SOME IMPORTANT PRINCIPLES of spiritual life seen in this text. First, dependency upon God is to be consistent. Second, keen spiritual attentiveness and hearing are required. Third, we must learn to move quickly when the presence of the Lord is detected. Precious lessons, indeed!
– Given O. Blakely
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
DELIGHTING IN FATNESS
"Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labor for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness." (Isaiah 55:2)
UNTIL THE ENTHRONEMENT OF "the Man Christ Jesus" on the right hand of God, relatively few people found any true enjoyment in the Lord. With the exception of David, precious few people were ever joyful before the God of heaven. Occasionally, when some great deliverance took place, the people of God would be joyful (1 Kgs 1:40; 1 Chron 12:40; 2 Chron 30:26; Ezra 3:12)–but they were few and far between. For the masses, fear dominated them as they sensed they were contrary to God in their basic natures. The Spirit says of those times and people, "who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage" (Heb 2:15). The word dominating the people was, "The soul that sinneth, it shall die" (Ezek 18:4,20). The Law stated it this way, "Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them" (Deut 27:6; Jer 11:3; Gal 3:10). This condition was not pleasing to God. In fact, He declared curses would pursue and overtake them "Because thou servedst not the LORD thy God with joyfulness, and with gladness of heart, for the abundance of all things" (Deut 28:47). But, a better day was coming!
FROM THE BEGINNING, God had determined He would have a people who would serve Him with gladness. The removal of sin and the opening of the way to Himself would be conducive to a joyful disposition. Religion would no longer be a burden, nor would men be content to merely dabble in things pertaining to God. In the Kingdom of His Son, a quest for fulness would be realized.
ISAIAH SPOKE OF THE DAYS of the New Covenant with glowing words. They would be a time of unparalleled satisfaction and joy. Hear the invitation of the Lord. "Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price" (Isa 55:1). Thus one of the great incongruities of our condition would be resolved. Deep within man, though stifled by sin and guilt, there was a deep longing. Yet, there also was a fear that kept men from coming close to God. Now, the call goes out to thirsty souls–to those longing for rich things.
THE CALL IS TO "EVERYONE" who thirsts, or longs, desires, or yearns. Although sin has blasted our race, removing all lasting satisfaction from us, the thirst remains. Now God speaks of "waters"–the source of satisfaction, and the real substance for which the soul pants. Even though men have no resources, and are unable to purchase these much coveted waters, they can come anyway. The invitation is to "he that hath no money." The thing that qualifies one for the waters is thirst itself. Everyone who has the thirst may come, even though they have no resources.
BUT THERE IS MORE THAN WATER. The invitation is to something rich–"wine and milk"–and both can be bought "without money and without price." This speaks of rich spiritual delicacies that go far beyond mere need.
GOD THEN CHALLENGES men to ponder why they waste their resources and efforts on things that bring no lasting satisfaction: "Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labor for that which satisfieth not?" There is no acceptable answer the question! It is designed to awaken the soul to better things.
THE DIVINE WORD is that we can "eat what is good," and let our soul "delight itself in fatness." Here, with the Lord, excess is in order, and diets are out of order. In Christ Jesus, the more we have, the more joyful we are. The more robust our appetite, the greater our delight. The more we imbibe of the Lord, the more gladness fills our heart. That is the nature of life in Christ Jesus.
THOSE WHO ARE WILLING to settle for a mere sampling of heavenly things are in a dangerous situation. They are sitting at a bountiful table, spread for them by the great God of heaven, and merely nibbling in His presence. Let them seek the delight that comes from "fatness."
– Given O. Blakely
UNTIL THE ENTHRONEMENT OF "the Man Christ Jesus" on the right hand of God, relatively few people found any true enjoyment in the Lord. With the exception of David, precious few people were ever joyful before the God of heaven. Occasionally, when some great deliverance took place, the people of God would be joyful (1 Kgs 1:40; 1 Chron 12:40; 2 Chron 30:26; Ezra 3:12)–but they were few and far between. For the masses, fear dominated them as they sensed they were contrary to God in their basic natures. The Spirit says of those times and people, "who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage" (Heb 2:15). The word dominating the people was, "The soul that sinneth, it shall die" (Ezek 18:4,20). The Law stated it this way, "Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them" (Deut 27:6; Jer 11:3; Gal 3:10). This condition was not pleasing to God. In fact, He declared curses would pursue and overtake them "Because thou servedst not the LORD thy God with joyfulness, and with gladness of heart, for the abundance of all things" (Deut 28:47). But, a better day was coming!
FROM THE BEGINNING, God had determined He would have a people who would serve Him with gladness. The removal of sin and the opening of the way to Himself would be conducive to a joyful disposition. Religion would no longer be a burden, nor would men be content to merely dabble in things pertaining to God. In the Kingdom of His Son, a quest for fulness would be realized.
ISAIAH SPOKE OF THE DAYS of the New Covenant with glowing words. They would be a time of unparalleled satisfaction and joy. Hear the invitation of the Lord. "Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price" (Isa 55:1). Thus one of the great incongruities of our condition would be resolved. Deep within man, though stifled by sin and guilt, there was a deep longing. Yet, there also was a fear that kept men from coming close to God. Now, the call goes out to thirsty souls–to those longing for rich things.
THE CALL IS TO "EVERYONE" who thirsts, or longs, desires, or yearns. Although sin has blasted our race, removing all lasting satisfaction from us, the thirst remains. Now God speaks of "waters"–the source of satisfaction, and the real substance for which the soul pants. Even though men have no resources, and are unable to purchase these much coveted waters, they can come anyway. The invitation is to "he that hath no money." The thing that qualifies one for the waters is thirst itself. Everyone who has the thirst may come, even though they have no resources.
BUT THERE IS MORE THAN WATER. The invitation is to something rich–"wine and milk"–and both can be bought "without money and without price." This speaks of rich spiritual delicacies that go far beyond mere need.
GOD THEN CHALLENGES men to ponder why they waste their resources and efforts on things that bring no lasting satisfaction: "Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labor for that which satisfieth not?" There is no acceptable answer the question! It is designed to awaken the soul to better things.
THE DIVINE WORD is that we can "eat what is good," and let our soul "delight itself in fatness." Here, with the Lord, excess is in order, and diets are out of order. In Christ Jesus, the more we have, the more joyful we are. The more robust our appetite, the greater our delight. The more we imbibe of the Lord, the more gladness fills our heart. That is the nature of life in Christ Jesus.
THOSE WHO ARE WILLING to settle for a mere sampling of heavenly things are in a dangerous situation. They are sitting at a bountiful table, spread for them by the great God of heaven, and merely nibbling in His presence. Let them seek the delight that comes from "fatness."
– Given O. Blakely
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