The Hebrew-Greek Bible Geek

Revelation 6:1 – 8:1 (Part 3)

2012-01-26T16:46:00.000-08:00

YAHWEH JESUS THE LAMB OPENS THE SEVEN SEALS (PART 3)

Revelation 6:1 – 8:1

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Reviewing the first five seals (Revelation 6:1-11).

A. Almost all “futurist” exegetes (those believing that the events of Revelation chapters 6 through 22 will take place in the future from now) view the seven seals as revealing the time of the seven year tribulation in chronological order.

B. Most “futurists” believe the first three seals take place in the first 3 ½ years of the tribulation.

1. The first seal brings increased antichrists and probably the Antichrist leader on the world stage as a powerful leader who deceptively looks peaceful and righteous. He begins to put together some leadership structure and increases in power (Rev. 6:1, 2).

2. The second seal brings increasing civil unrest, war, and bloodshed. The Antichrist begins to cast his dictatorial power over a greater portion of the earth bringing more unrest and violence (Rev. 6:3, 4).

3. The third seal brings increasing famine and hardship to the poorer inhabitants of the earth. However, those with power and money are not as affected. Yahweh possibly gives special protection to His people during this time (Rev. 6:5, 6).

C. Many “futurists” see the fourth seal as lining up with the events of the middle of the seven year tribulation. However, some do not see the middle until Revelation 8:1 or Revelation 10:7 – 14:20. The middle of the tribulation was prophesied by Daniel (Daniel 9:27), Christ (Matthew 24:15; Mark 13:14; Luke 21:20), and Paul (2 Thes. 2:3-5) as the time where the Antichrist sets up an idol (possibly of himself) in the Jewish Temple. At this point, the tribulation increases for the next 3 ½ years into an intense great tribulation (Dan. 12:1; Matt. 24:21) with the Antichrist breaking his covenant with Israel (Dan. 9:27) and dictatorially ruling the world (2 Thes. 2:7-12).

1. The fourth seal brings the revealing of the Antichrist (Death), the increase of his power to kill a fourth of the population of the earth, the last of the horsemen of the Apocalypse (signaling a next phase in the tribulation), and a lining up of Christ’s words on Matthew 24:15, Mark 13:14, and Luke 21:20 (Rev. 6:7, 8).

2. The fifth seal brings a prayer from the existing saints in heaven who have suffered greatly and have been killed for their faith on earth for Yahweh to execute His plan of justice and ultimately set up His rulership on this earth. They are comforted by Yahweh and told to rest and wait for a little while longer (Rev. 6:9-11).

II. The sixth seal of judgment (Revelation 6:12-17).

A. If the fourth seal brings the events leading up to and after the mid point of the tribulation period, then the events of the sixth seal occur sometime after the mid point and before Christ’s return to the earth recorded in Revelation 19:11. In other words, the sixth seal would occur in the last 3 ½ years of the tribulation called the great tribulation (Dan. 12:1; Matt. 9:21).

B. The opening of the sixth seal brings amazing and cataclysmic changes in the earth and heavens that have not been experienced in any of the previous five seals (verses 12-14). Also, these catastrophic events seem to be world wide, strike terror in the hearts of the inhabitants of the earth, and allow them to understand that the great day of God’s wrath was upon them (verses 15-17).

1. The sixth seal begins with a great shaking or convulsion (seismos – Greek) that starts on the earth but also affects the sky and heavens. While the earth and heavens convulse, various visible things can be seen and felt by those of the earth:

a. The sun becomes black as a “sackcloth of hair” which is a course garment worn for mourning (Isa. 50:3). In other words, Yahweh shows by the sign of the darkened sun that the world is in mourning (verse 12; Matt. 24:29a).

b. The whole moon becomes red like blood. In other words, Yahweh gives the sign of a total eclipse of the moon probably viewed through very dusty atmospheric conditions (verse 12; Matt. 24:29b).

c. The asteroids, meteors, comets (asteres – Greek, can mean stars or objects moving through space) of heaven fell to the earth. In other words, more asteroids, meteors, and comets were being seen than at any other time in earth’s history. Many of these were impacting the earth (verse 13; Matt. 24:29c). This would look like a large fig tree dropping its figs on top of you if you were underneath it. The fig tree is many times used to illustrate Israel and the things happening to Israel as well (verse 13; Matt. 24:32-35).

d. The shaking will be so thorough that mountains and islands will be moved out of place and the placement of the things of heaven will be changed and feel like everything is coming undone (verse 14; Matt. 24:29d).

2. The judgment happening on the earth at this time now includes everybody. It is universal, equal, and nondiscriminatory of wealth, class, or rank unlike the third seal judgment. The sad part is the world still does not respond in repentance but rather fear, hiding, and cursing (verse 15, 16a). The mountains at the very end will not even be around to hide behind (Rev. 16:20).

3. It is interesting to know that the prophesied Day of Yahweh (which starts out with universal judgment and ends with Yahweh’s eternal reign) starts out with a world wide shaking as well as many of these signs (Isa. 2:6-22, 29:6; Joel 2:1-11; Hag. 2:6, 7). Could this be the start of the Day of Yahweh (verse 16b, 17)? The Pre-Wrath tribulational rapture position takes this approach with the rapture taking place in the parenthetical chapter 7 before the Day of Yahweh’s wrath takes place in the trumpet and bowl judgments.

THOUGHT: “Great are the works of Yahweh, studied by all who delight in them.” Psalm 111:2

Revelation 6:1 – 8:1 (Part 2)

2012-01-13T08:17:00.000-08:00

YAHWEH JESUS THE LAMB OPENS THE SEVEN SEALS (PART 2)

Revelation 6:1 – 8:1

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Reviewing the first two seals (Revelation 6:1-4).

A. The first seal of judgment is carried out by a rider on a white horse. The best explanation for this first judgment seems to be the false antichrists or Antichrist that will have a deceptive righteousness and start to conquer in peace. This ties in well with the “beginning of birth pains” (Matt. 24:8) that marks the beginning of seven years of tribulation on this earth before Christ’s second coming (verses 1, 2; Dan. 9:27; Matt. 24:5, 24; Mark 13:6; Luke 21:8).

B. The second seal of judgment is carried out by a rider on a fiery red horse. This second judgment brings great bloodshed due to civil unrest and war. The rider “was given” the ability to take away a certain amount of peace out of the earth and the ability to execute judgment (verses 3, 4; Matt. 24:6, 7; Mark 13:7, 8; Luke 21:9, 10).

II. The third seal of judgment (Revelation 6:5, 6).

A. John saw the Lamb open the third seal and a third living creature (angel from the throne) calls forth the third horse and horseman of the Apocalypse (Revelation 6:5a).

B. The horse’s color was black signifying sorrow, mourning, and hardship due to the ravages of the wars of the second seal (Isaiah 50:3; Jeremiah 4:27-29; Lam. 4:8 – 5:10). One of the ravages of war is famine due to the destruction of crops and the depletion of the work force. During famine, food is scarce and costly. Therefore it needs to be weighed and rationed out (on a scale, Revelation 6: 5b; Prov. 16:11; Ezek. 4:16, 17; Matt. 24:7b).

C. John next hears something like a voice probably coming from Yahweh Father or Yahweh Jesus. He says that a choinix (a little less than a quart) of wheat will cost a denarius (an average days wage) or you can get three choinix of the cheaper, less nutritious barley. These amounts have been calculated to sustain an average person’s apetite for about one day and were about ten to twelve times the rate of regular times. He also says that olive oil and wine (which are considered luxury items) would not be harmed. This probably means that at this stage in the tribulation (first 3 ½ years), there are more poor people being directly effected than the wealthy elite. Another possibility is that the oil and wine represents Yahweh’s special protection over the things and people of His Spirit since the oil and wine are used in the Jewish Temple (anointing, sacrifices) as well as the church (anointing, communion) (verse 6).

III. The fourth seal of judgment (Revelation 6:7, 8).

A. John saw the Lamb open the fourth seal and a fourth living creature (angel from the throne) calls forth the fourth horse and horseman of the Apocalypse (Rev. 6:7).

B. The horse’s color was yellowish green (chloros – Greek) which is the color of vegetation and most sickly and dead people. For the first time we are given the rider’s name which is Death. Another by the name of Hades (the Greek word for the place of the departed dead which is Sheol in Hebrew) followed him in some way. They “were given” at this time a power to kill a fourth of the earth’s population (over a billion and a half people today) through the use of the sword (human wars or violence), intensified famines, various forms of death probably by sickness, plagues, and by causing animals to turn on humans (Rev. 6:8; Ezek. 14:12-23).

C. Some premillennialists believe the middle of the seven year tribulation period occurs during the time of the fourth horseman due to its severity, because it is the last of the horsemen that precedes the next events of judgment, and how Christ’s words in Matthew 24:15, Mark 13:14, and Luke 21:20 line up timing wise. Therefore, this is one place where the Antichrist could break his covenant with Israel and set up an idol in the Jewish Temple (Dan. 9:27). Others see the middle before the seventh seal (Rev. 8:1) or somewhere in the days of the seventh trumpet (Rev. 10:7 – 14:20).

IV. The fifth seal of judgment (Revelation 6:9-11).

A. John saw the Lamb open the fifth seal and instead of seeing any more horsemen, he now sees a scene in heaven where people that have been killed for their faith cry out for Yahweh to execute His plan of justice. People that have studied Yahweh’s word in all different generations have realized that He has been delaying His justice until the time of the end or the Day of Yahweh. This is where He will make everything right by judging this earth and setting up a true Kingdom of righteousness forever and ever (Deut. 32:35; Rom. 12:9). John sees these people crying out either underneath the altar of incense (the usual place for prayer and petition) or the altar of sacrifice in heaven (verse 9, see also Rev. 8:3-5, 14:18, 16:7).

B. As servants who are owned by Yahweh the Most High God, they call Him their holy and true Master (despotas – Greek). They recognize that He alone controls the time of His judgment and His ultimate kingdom rule and cry out the prophetic prayer of “how long!” (Psalms 13:1, 2; Psalms 35:17). Their ultimate hope is in the truth of His word and character, the holiness of His being which demands perfect and impartial justice that can only be delayed or forgiven by His mercy (verse 10; Luke 18:7, 8).

C. Rather than getting immediate justice, the martyred saints are told by Yahweh to rest and wait in a special white robe (symbolic of righteousness and victory) which they “were given.” There are still more believers which will suffer and be killed for their faith during the fifth, sixth, and seventh seals (including the trumpets and bowls) before all will be completed (verse 11).

THOUGHT: “Wait for Yahweh and keep His way, and He will exalt you to inherit the land; you will look on when the wicked are cut off.” Psalms 37:34

Revelation 6:1-8:1 (Part 1)

2011-11-17T14:39:00.000-08:00

YAHWEH JESUS THE LAMB OPENS THE SEVEN SEALS (PART 1)

Revelation 6:1 – 8:1

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. There is a certain amount of background information that is needed before a proper exegesis (drawing the meaning out of the text) of Revelation chapter 6 through 19 can occur.

A. First we need to know when these events are occurring.

1. The timetable of the events of Revelation chapters 6-19 are going to occur during a 7 year period in the future which culminates in Christ’s return. This is called the futurists view and will be our primary mode of interpretation.

a. This view awaits the fulfillment of Daniel’s 70th week of seven years as prophesied in Daniel 9:27.

b. This view awaits the fulfillment of all the Old Testament prophecies concerning the Day of Yahweh where His wrath is outpoured on the entire earth (Isa 13:6-13; Amos 5:18; Joel 1:15, 2:2, 11; Zech. 14:1-11).

c. This view awaits the prophecies of Christ that explain the events leading up to His return (Matt. 24:2-35; Mark 13:2-31; Luke 21:6-33).

d. This view awaits the prophecies of the Apostles that explain the events leading up to His return (Romans 2:8-11, 12:19; I Thessalonians 5:1-9; II Thessalonians 2:1-12; II Peter 4:4-9).

2. Two other methods of interpretation are common among our fellow believers and so will be mentioned briefly.

a. The historical (preterist) view usually interprets all these events as having already occurred around 70 A.D. (Jerusalem’s fall) although some include events throughout church history.

b. The idealist (allegorical, symbolic) view interprets all these events according to apocalyptic genre that is primarily symbolic. They would say that “when” these events happen are not important as long as the church receives strength to follow Yahweh better and endure persecution.

B. Second we need to know how these chapters are organized. There are three main judgments of seven which are seven seals (Rev. 6:1 – 8:1), seven trumpets (Rev. 8:2 – 14:20) and seven bowls (Rev. 15:1 – 19:10). There are two main ways of organizing these from a futuristic approach.

1. The dovetailing or telescopic way to organize these chapters has the seventh seal (Revelation 8:1) contain the seven trumpets and the seven trumpets (Revelation 11:15) contain the seven bowls. In other words, all of the judgments (possibly 19 to 21 depending on if the seventh seal and seventh trumpet are counted as judgments) happen in order with a relationship between the seventh seal and the rest of the judgments. This view is the main view we will use and points out the many differences in execution and intensity of the judgments.

2. The recapitulation or cyclical way to organize these chapters has seven judgments consisting of seals, trumpets, and bowls repeated three different ways for emphasis. This view points out that there are many similarities between the judgments as they are compared.

II. The opening of the first two seals by Yahweh Jesus, the Lamb (Revelation 6:1-4).

A. The first seal of judgment (Revelation 6:1, 2)

1. John saw the Lamb open the seal and then heard the noise of thunder (usually associated with judgment or power, Exodus 20:18; John 12:28, 29) from one of the four living creatures. The opening of the seal produced the calling forth of the first rider of the apocalypse (verse 1).

2. The white horse is probably a symbol of purity or righteousness. The person had a bow (military strength without using arrows), a crown (authoritative power), and the ability to conquer (evidently in a somewhat peaceful way) (verse 2).

a. There were four horsemen in the Old Testament that brought about judgment on Israel’s enemies for the purpose of establishing real peace (Zech. 1:8, 6:1-8). The colors of the horses were different as well as the scope and span of their purpose.

b. There are wide and varied views as to the identity of this first rider including the Roman emperor, the Word of God, the gospel, Roman invaders, and the Jewish Messiah. However, even though Jesus is going to ride in on a white horse in Rev. 19:11, He cannot be on this horse because He is opening the seals and judging the earth. The best choice seems to be the false antichrists or Antichrist that has a deceptive righteousness and starts conquering in peace (verse 2; Daniel 9:27; Matthew 24:5, 24; Mark 13:6; Luke 21:8).

B. The second seal of judgment (Revelation 6:3, 4)

1. Yahweh Jesus opens the second seal and a second living creature (angel from the throne) calls forth the second horse and horseman of the Apocalypse (verse 3).

2. This horses color was fiery red signifying great bloodshed due to civil unrest and war. This could be the same type of situation that Jesus prophesied as “wars and rumors of wars” and “nation against nation” (Matt. 24:6, 7; Mark 13:7, 8 and Luke 21:9, 10). The rider “was given” the ability to take away a certain amount of peace (shalom) out of the earth and he “was given” a great sword (a judgment executer).

THOUGHT: All activity is still under the control of Yahweh Jesus from the heavenly throne. He is the only rightful ruler of this world as well as the rightful judge and redeemer! Praise Yahweh Jesus!

Revelation 5:1-13

2011-11-10T09:32:00.000-08:00

FOUR HEAVENLY SCENES SHOW YAHWEH JESUS AS THE RIGHTFUL RULER OVER THIS EARTH AND ALL OF CREATION

Revelation 5:1-14

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

The Apostle John divides this section up into four scenes with the words “and I saw”
(kai eidon – Greek) used in verses 1, 2, 6, and 11.

I. Scene One: Yahweh Father and the seven-sealed scroll (Revelation 5:1).

A. Yahweh Father, who is still on His throne that was described in chapter 4, is now seen balancing a scroll on His right palm.

B. The scroll has been written on both sides and sealed with seven seals.

1. The scroll was probably made of papyrus strips that were glued together and then rolled. The writing on front and back of papyrus scrolls was usually reserved for documents, divorce settlements, and contract deeds (verse 1, Ezek. 2:9, 10).

2. Important Roman documents of the time such as wills were sealed seven times to make them authentic. Seals were usually made of clay or wax and then an impression or signature carved in it. Only an authorized person could open a document that had been sealed (verse 1, Isaiah 29:11, 12; Daniel 8:26, 12:4, 9).

3. The seals could have either been on the side of the scroll (so that each time a seal was opened more of the scroll could be read) or all seven on the top of the scroll (with the events of Revelation not being read but depicted).

4. By looking at the things contained in Revelation chapters 6 through 22, Ezekiel 2:9 through 3:1; Daniel 7:8-28, 8:26, 9:27, 12:1-13 as well as every passage in the Old Testament dealing with the Day of Yahweh and every New Testament passage on Christ’s return, we can surmise what the scroll contains. It is the end of this world as we know it that concludes with Yahweh’s judgment of unrighteousness and unbelief, the establishing of Yahweh Jesus’ Kingdom, the reward for the saints, and the New Heaven and New Earth.

II. Scene Two: Yahweh Jesus the Messiah (Christ) is the only One who can open the scroll (Revelation 5:2-5).

A. A worthy (axios – Greek, meaning of proper weight as in a scale) individual is looked for in all of creation to open the scroll. However, no one was found who was, as the word worthy became, competent enough, sufficient enough, or fit enough to do the job (verses 2-4).

B. One of the 24 elders informs the weeping John that it is none other than Yahweh Jesus who is worthy to do this (verse 5).

1. He is the prophesied Messiah who is called the Lion of Judah (verse 5;
Genesis 49:9-12).

2. He is the prophesied Messiah who is called the Root of David (verse 5; Isaiah 11:1, 10; Jeremiah 23:5, 6; 33:15, 16; Romans 15:12).

THOUGHT: The way Yahweh set it up, only Jesus the unique One, who was 100% Yahweh and 100% human, could judge, rule, and reign with His people. This prophesied Christ has come and will come again!

III. Scene Three: Yahweh Jesus is the Old Testament’s prophesied Lion as well as its prophesied slain Lamb who takes the scroll, redeems believers, and brings about His reign on this earth with His saints! (verses 6-10)

A. John next sees Jesus as the slain Passover Lamb in the midst of Yahweh Father’s throne, probably at His right hand (verse 6; Psalms 110:1; Colossians. 3:1; Rev. 3:21). Evidently Jesus bore the marks of His suffering on the cross (which He bears throughout all eternity in His new body, Luke 24:39) and He can morph in the vision depicting various forms. The Passover Lamb was a definite depiction for Jesus’ death as paying for the sins of the world and freeing all those who would apply His blood to the doorpost of their lives through belief (verse 6; Exodus 12:3-11; Isaiah 53:6, 7; John 1:29; 19:14, 31-36).

B. The Lamb has seven horns and seven eyes. The Biblical number seven is the perfect number symbolizing fullness or completeness. The horns represent the fullness of His power and strength (verse 6, Deut. 33:17; 2 Sam. 22:3) and the eyes represent His ability to discern and purify this world through the power of His Holy Spirit (verse 6, Zech. 3:9, 4:10; Rev. 1:4, 3:1).

C. The Lamb evidently switches positions, probably moves to the front of Yahweh Father, and takes the scroll from the Father’s right hand. At this event, the four living creatures and the 24 elders fall down before the Lamb in worship to celebrate the magnitude of the occasion. At this time, each of these 28 beings has a harp (usually 10 or 12 strings were commonly used in temple worship – I Chron. 25:1, 6) and a golden incense bowl (containing the petitions of the saints for true justice and the Kingdom of Jesus – Psalms 141:2; Luke 18:7, 8; Revelation 8:3-5) (verses 7, 8).

D. The new song (like Isaiah 42:10) these 28 beings sing and say relates to glorifying Yahweh Jesus for His redemptive sacrifice, His reward for His saints, and His coming Kingdom (verses 9, 10).

IV. Scene 4: The praising and glorifying of Yahweh Jesus expands to an innumerable number of angels as well as all of creation (Revelation 5:11-14).

A. The transfer of authority for the judgment and rulership of this world from Yahweh Father to Yahweh Jesus in Revelation 5 is very similar to that of the Ancient of Days to the Son of Man found in Daniel 7:9-14, 26. In both Biblical accounts, an innumerable number of angels surround the heavenly throne proclaiming His attributes and praise (verses 11, 12; I Chronicles 29:10-13; Revelation 7:12).

B. Every living creature is seen giving praise to Yahweh Jesus, no matter their location, and no matter what kind or type of creation. All of creation will worship and glorify the Lamb! (verse 13; Isaiah 45:23; Romans 8:18-25; Philippians. 2:10, 11; Rev. 19:11 - 22:21).

C. The four living creatures add their Amen (so be it, the things being done and said are true) and the 24 elders once again fall down and worship the eternal ruler! (verse 14)

THOUGHT: Let us add our Amen and our worship for our awesome Lamb, Lion, and
King! He alone has the power to open the seals and do the things He has promised. Our hope is only in Him!

Revelation 4:1-11

2011-10-20T15:30:00.000-07:00

YAHWEH FATHER’S THRONE IN HEAVEN

Revelation 4:1-11

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. The revealing of the glory and awesomeness of Yahweh Father’s throne in heaven
(Revelation 4:1-6).

A. This is the start of a new section of prophecy that goes from Revelation 4:1 – 22:5. It starts with the sovereign throne of Yahweh and ends with the establishment of the New Heaven and New Earth. John seems to tie vision after vision together with words like “after these things” which give primarily a futuristic idea (Rev. 1:19, 4:1, 7:1, 9, 9:12, 15:5, 18:1, 19:1, 20:3).

B. The Apostle John next sees a door that had been opened in heaven and hears the powerful trumpet voice of Yahweh Jesus inviting him into the open door for a look into future events (Rev. 4:1; Rev. 1:10, 19).

1. Up until now John received his vision of the glorified Christ (Rev. 1:1-20) and Christ’s message to the seven churches (Rev. 2:1 – 3:22) while probably in his cave on the isle of Patmos. Now he is given a vision which elevates him to the vantage point of heaven.

2. Many believers see the rapture (“catching up” Greek “harpazo” I Thes.4:17) of the church as occurring before (between Rev. 3:10 – 4:1) or at Rev. 4:1. Believers who hold to this position believe that Christ will rapture His church before the seven years of tribulation that will come on this earth as prophesied in Daniel 9:27, 12:1; Matt. 24:4-29; 2 Thes. 2:3-10; and
Rev. 6:1 – 19:10 and so are called pretribulational.

C. As John went through the open door of heaven (in the spirit, in his vision), he immediately is struck by the awesomeness of the throne of Yahweh Father! (Rev. 4:2; I Kings 22:19; Isa. 6:1-4; Ezek. 1:26-28). With the inspiration of Yahweh’s Spirit, he describes it for us in Rev. 4:3-6. The concept of the throne of Yahweh is very important in Revelation.

1. Out of the 22 chapters of Revelation, the throne is related to in 14 of the chapters. The word throne is used 13 times in Revelation 4:1-11 alone!

2. Yahweh Father is described by the Spirit inspired John in terms of light in the color of three stones: jasper (probably like translucent diamond), sardius (also called carnelian which was fiery red), and emerald (covering a rainbow of shades of green encircling the throne). Brilliant splendor, glory, and unapproachable light give us a visual of our Yahweh Father (Rev. 4:3; Ezek. 1:26-28; I Tim. 6:16).

3. Around the Father’s throne were 24 thrones occupied by 24 elders wearing white clothes and gold crowns (Rev. 4:4).

a. Many believe these to be human elders such as 12 chosen from Israel and 12 chosen from the church as in the New Jerusalem
(Rev. 21:12-14).

b. Many believe these to be a special elevated rank of angelic beings who have served Yahweh and His creation well. They point out that these 24 elders seem to be uniquely linked with the four living creatures that are for sure angelic, they are always distinguished from the saints
(Rev. 5:8, 11:17-18, 19:1-4), and their place seems to center around the heavenly throne rather than any earthly thrones. This probably fits the context of the passage better.

4. From the throne came an awesome display of lightning, thundering sounds, and seven fire torches representing Yahweh’s seven-fold (all- encompassing) Spirit. Each of these depict Yahweh’s power to judge and purify by His Holy Spirit (Rev. 4:5, 8:5, 11:19, 16:18; Exodus 19:16;
Matt. 3:11).

5. The throne was located on a large expanse of crystal glass that was like looking into the sea or ocean (this magnified Yahweh’s transcendence, purity, and holiness). However, four six winged, supernatural angelic creatures, probably in the same order as seraphim and cherubim, who could see from any position (rich in Yahweh’s will and knowledge), were right next to the throne and surrounding it (Rev. 4:6; Ezek. 1:5-25, 10:1-22; Isa. 6:1-3).

THOUGHT: Let’s silently meditate on this awesome sight of Yahweh Father our Heavenly Father and give Him praise.

II. John next gives us more detail concerning these four living creatures (Rev. 4:7-8).

A. They have faces like a lion, calf (ox), man, and flying eagle. Even though the early church fathers assigned these to the four gospels and others to tribes of Israel, the most probable explanation is that these highly ranked, supernaturally close order of angelic beings expressed Yahweh’s heart in creation. They represent and bring continuous worship by acknowledging His power, strength, spiritual relationship, and soaring ability over this creation (verse 7; Ezek. 1:10, 10:14).

B. They each have six wings (Ezek. chapters 1, 10; Isaiah 6:1-3) that can shield them from the awesome holiness of Yahweh and eyes that expressed their ability to see from any angle to discern Yahweh’s bidding or will. They continuously say that Yahweh is beyond holy (repeated for emphasis, Isaiah 6:3, “set apart” from all else), that He is the only Ruler of All or Lord God Almighty (Adonai Yahweh Sabaoth “ of Hosts” in Hebrew, Isaiah 6:3; Ezekiel 6:3), and that He is Yahweh the great I Am (was, is, and is to come Exodus 3:14).

III. John next gives us more detail concerning the 24 elders (Revelation 4:9-11).

A. When the four living creatures worship Yahweh’s attributes, His right to rule, and return thanks for who He is, the 24 elders worship by prostrating themselves and placing their crowns toward the throne (verses 9, 10).

B. The 24 elders then join in the praise by saying their own chorus and adding aspects of Yahweh’s creation, will, and sovereignty (verse 11).

IV. Some helpful terminology and definitions.

A. Millennium comes from two latin words “mille-1,000” and “annum-year”. Therefore, the word refers to the 1,000 year reign of Christ found in Rev. 20:1-8 (chiliasm is derived from the Greek word for 1,000).

1. A person who believes that Christ will return to this literal earth “before” setting up and reigning 1,000 years on this earth is called a Premillennialist.

2. An Amillennialist is a person who believes that the 1,000 year time period is not literal but symbolic. Many believe that if there is a millennial reign of Christ, it is already happening during this present time of the church.

3. A Postmillennialist is a person who believes that the church will usher in the restoration and millennial reign of Christ on this earth under Christ’s invisible direction. Christ will then return visibly after this millennial work on earth to judge the wicked and set up His New Heaven and New Earth.

B. Tribulation is suffering or affliction and the word taken in a prophetic sense means the seven year period of suffering (that starts the day of the Lord) that is to come on the earth according to Daniel 9:27, 12:1; Matthew 24:4-29; 2 Thes. 2:1-10; Rev. 4:1 – 19:10). The Tribulation Period is usually seven years and the most intense suffering happens in the last three and a half years of the seven and is called the Great Tribulation (Daniel 9:27b; Matthew 24:21).

1. A person who believes that the church will be raptured before the seven year Tribulation starts is pretribulational.

2. A person who believes that the church will be raptured in the middle of the seven year Tribulation but before the three and a half year Great Tribulation is midtribulational.

3. A person who believes that the church will be raptured before the wrath of the Lamb is pre-wrath tribulational (usually after the middle).

4. A person who believes that the church will be raptured after the seven year Tribulation Period is posttribulational.

Revelation 3:14-22

2011-10-13T09:42:00.000-07:00

YAHWEH JESUS IN THE MIDST OF HIS CHURCHES (PART IV)
Revelation 3:14-22

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Church #7: The Church at Laodicea (Revelation 3:14-22).

A. A brief history of the city of Laodicea: Laodicea was located 45 miles southeast of Philadelphia and about 100 miles east of Ephesus. It was a city that was at the crossroads of the major trade routes in Asia Minor and so had become wealthy. It was known for a soft, black wool made in the area and their famous medical school. An eye salve came from this school known as “Phygian powder” which brought the city fame and fortune. The city had temples to Zeus, Men Karou (also known as Asclepius, the god of healing) as well as shrines to many trade gods. The valley it was located in was prone to earthquakes and the city was severely damaged in both 17 A.D. and 60 A.D. The city had to bring its water in from an aqueduct system from six miles away and so was known to have lukewarm and many times bad tasting water. The cities and churches of Colosse and Hierapolis were very close to the city of Laodicea (Colosse was 10 miles east and Hierapolis was 6 miles north) forming a tri-city complex. It is believed that all three churches were evangelized and planted by Epaphras (Col. 1:7, 2:1, 4:13) between 54-56 A.D.

B. Christ’s attributes, assessments, and award for the congregation at Laodicea (Rev. 3:14-22).

1. Christ’s attributes for the church to meditate on are found in Rev. 3:14. He identifies Himself as the churches’ Amen which means the words and actions of Jesus are firmly fixed, unchangeable, and true (Isa. 65:16, He is the God of truth, in Hebrew “Elohim Aman”). He is the faithful and true witness and wants the Laodiceans to be like Him (2 Cor. 1:20). He is also the ruler (chief, source, origin, beginner) of creation and therefore worthy to be listened to (Col. 1:18; Rev. 1:5, 22:13).

2. Christ’s assessment of the churches’ situation and problem (Rev. 3:15-20).

a. Christ knows that the Laodicean church, like their city water, is lukewarm and bad tasting. Out of the seven churches, they receive the worst report from Yahweh Jesus and receive only rebuke. None of the works of the Laodicean church are acceptable in Yahweh Jesus’ sight (verses 15, 16).

b. Christ knows that the Laodicean church is a congregation that boasts in their own wealth and self-sufficiency rather than their need and abandonment in Yahweh. This attitude never went well for Israel and it’s not going well for this church either (Deut. 8:10-20; Jer. 9:23, 24). Christ describes this congregation in five words that are very much different from their self-evaluation. They are wretched (only other time used in Romans 7:24), miserable (only other time used in I Cor. 15:19), poor, blind, and naked (verse 17).

c. Christ knows that the Laodicean church is prideful in three areas which are their gold, clothing, and eye medicine. He desires for their self- sufficiency to be reversed and therefore He instructs this congregation to “buy” into His true spiritual life instead (verse 18). If they will listen to His loving rebuke and repent (change their mind and turn) then Christ will open the door of His Kingdom blessings and personal fellowship to them (verses 19, 20; Matt. 24:33; John 14:23).

3. Christ’s award for the faithful Laodiceans (Rev. 3:21, 22).

a. Christ’s true overcomers will co-reign with Christ in His Millennial (1,000 year) Kingdom on this earth (verse 21; Dan. 7:27; Luke 22:28- 30; Rom. 8:17; 2 Tim. 2:12; Rev. 20:6).

b. There is a universal call to all of Christ’s churches then and now to overcome and listen to the true words of the Holy Spirit (verse 22).

THOUGHT: In what areas are you showing boastfulness in your family, resources, or ability without giving credit to Yahweh? How can you correct this? How can we as a church body be better at Hallelu-Yah (praising Yahweh)?

II. Two final teachings regarding the seven churches of Revelation.

A. Some teachers like to point out that there seems to be a possible chronological development of church history in the seven churches. They would possibly say that a scenario like this is represented in church history: Ephesus (approx. 30- 100 A.D., losing first love), Smyrna (approx. 100-312 A.D., severe persecution before Constantine), Pergamum (approx. 300-600 A.D., false doctrine), Thyatira (600-1517 A.D., immorality, false doctrine), Sardis (1517-1750 A.D., reform- ation, persecution), Philadelphia (1750-1950’s A.D., revivals, great world wars), Laodicea (1950-now, the lukewarm church). Even though there are some interesting historical events that seem to line up with this view, there is not enough to give precise breaks to the next chronological development for my exegetical taste. A better exegesis is to see the seven churches representing possible church scenarios for all church time before Christ’s rapture and/or return.

B. There seems to be a possible Hebraic chiasm in Christ’s words to the seven churches of Revelation. The Greek letter chi looks like the English X. Therefore, a chiasm in the literature has similarities matching beginning and ending parts of the writing and has its main point in the middle (where the X crosses). Ephesus and Laodicea, Smyrna and Philadelphia, and Pergamum and Sardis all have similarities relating in order of passion for Christ, persecution in Christ, and participation in cultural immorality. Thyatira is the middle church, has the longest amount of writing, deals with doctrinal error and immorality, and is the only letter that quotes Scripture directly (Psalms 2:9). This deals with Christ’s rule on this earth and His overcomers ruling with Him. This church seems to embody Christ’s main theme to His churches for all time.

Revelation 3:1-13

2011-10-07T12:48:00.000-07:00

Revelation 3:1-13

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Church #5: The Church at Sardis (Rev. 3:1-6).

A. A brief history of the city of Sardis: Sardis was located 30 miles south of Thyatira and was located on the main Roman trade and military routes. As a result, it was a very wealthy city and was known as the old capital city of Persia in Asia Minor. It was located on an elevated area 1500 feet from the valley below and so was a perfect military fortress for the kingdoms of Lydia, Persia, Greece, and Rome. It had impressive structures built through hundreds of years of history including the acropolis (a well fortified military structure), temples to Artemis (Cybele, Diana) and the Emperor, and the necropolis (huge cemetery). Their main industry at 95 A.D. (the time of Revelation) was woolen goods and clothing. However, most of the city’s wealth accumulated from its past history and so it had become prideful, lethargic, and morally compromised.

B. Christ’s attributes, assessments, and award for the congregation at Sardis (Revelation 3:1-6).

1. Christ’s attributes for the church to meditate on are found in Rev. 3:1b. He identifies Himself as the one who has the seven Spirits of God which communicates the Holy Spirit’s blessing, anointing, and teaching (Rev. 1:4; Zech. 4:1-10). He also identifies Himself as the churches’ powerful protector and sovereign ruler as the one who has the seven stars
(Rev. 1:16, 20). This church by thinking about these things should return to living a life in Yahweh’s Spirit and power and stop relying on their own selves.

2. Christ’s assessment of the churches’ situation and problem (Rev. 3:1c-4).

a. Christ does not commend this church for its work (only this one and Laodicea receive no commendation). This church is thought of by others and themselves to be spiritually alive but Christ says they are dead (“necros” Greek) (Rev. 3:1c).

b. Christ commands His congregation in Sardis to wake up and to watch constantly (present tense). Whatever this church was doing for Christ was not found to be done correctly (complete, to the full). This probably meant that there were either bad doctrine, personal boasting, immorality, or/and ulterior motives involved with the works (Rev. 3:2; I Cor. 4:1-5; II Cor. 11:1-6; I John 2:16).

c. Christ commands His congregation in Sardis to correct the problem with a three-fold formula: 1) Remember! (what they have received from Christ and His teaching), 2) Keep it!, and 3) Repent! (change your mind and turn). If they refuse to do these things, Christ will come to them like a thief which probably means that He will remove them as one of His churches (Rev. 3:3, 2:5).

d. Christ does comfort a few in the church who have not soiled their clothes. The white clothes probably relate to the wedding and feast garments of the saints (Rev. 19:7, 8) or the victorious white garments worn after a battle victory in the Roman empire (Rev. 3:4).

3. Christ’s award for the overcomers in Sardis (Rev. 3:5, 6).

a. They are promised white clothes (verse 4) having their names stay in the book of life (all humans start out in the book but non-believers in Yahweh Christ’s righteousness choosing instead self-righteousness get blotted out, Dan. 12:1; Luke 10:20; Phil. 4:3; Heb. 12:23; Rev. 13:8, 17:8, 20:15, 21:27) and acknowledgement before Yahweh Father and the angels.

b. There is a universal call to all of Christ’s churches then and now to hear and obey this message.

THOUGHT: How do churches that were once alive become dead? What can we do to prevent dying as a church?

II. Church #6: The Church at Philadelphia (Revelation 3:7-13).

A. A brief history of the city of Philadelphia: Philadelphia was located 25 miles southeast of Sardis and 100 miles east of Smyrna. It was a wealthy city which traded in textile, leather, and wine. It was destroyed by an earthquake in 17 A.D. along with 10 other cities in the area but was rebuilt by Tiberias Caesar. In honor to Caesar, the city changed its name to Neocaesarea for over 30 years but by 95 A.D. (the time of Revelation) it went by the names of Philadelphia or Flavia. It had temples dedicated to emperor worship, Zeus, and shrines to pagan cults. There was also a large Jewish Synagogue in the city. Between the immorality of the culture and persecution, the church had many difficulties.

B. Christ’s attributes, assessment, and award for the congregation at Philadelphia (Revelation 3:7-13).

1. Christ’s attributes for the church to meditate on are found in Revelation 2:7. He identifies Himself as the Holy One (“set apart” for the Father’s purposes, Isaiah 6:3), the True One (perfectly trustworthy, what He said and says He will do, as an example Isaiah 9:1, 2; Matt. 4:12-16), and the One who has the key of David. The key to King David’s treasury (Isaiah 22:22) is given ultimately to the Holy True Messiah from David’s line, Jesus Christ, which opens the door to His Kingdom (Matt. 16:19).

2. Christ’s assessment of the situation without a rebuke (Revelation 3:8-11).

a. Christ knows that this congregation has been suffering (little strength) and persecuted but has kept His word and not denied His name. He continues to set before them this open door into the Kingdom blessings and possibly ministry (verse 8; Col. 4:3; Rev. 21:25).

b. Christ knows that this congregation is being persecuted by the Jewish community. He tells this predominately Gentile church that His true Jews would receive their Messiah as the Philadelphian church has already done. Christ loves (“agapao” Greek) this church and all people will see this in His fulfilled Kingdom (vs. 9; Dan. 7:27; Phil. 2:10, 11).

c. Christ knows that the Philadelphia congregation has kept His word through suffering times by enduring (“remaining under” Greek) in Christ’s strength (verse 10a). Since they were willing to endure now, they and future patient endurers will be kept from a future time of trial and tribulation which will come upon the whole earth (verse 10b, c). Most dispensationalists believe the rapture will take the church out of this world before the hour of trial or great tribulation happens on this earth (Daniel 12:1; Matt. 24:21; I Thes. 4:17; Rev. 7:14). Most other groups see this as Christ’s preservation and strength to His believers through the great trials in this world (James 1:27).

d. Christ encourages His suffering Church with His soon coming. The idea of “soon” should be looked at from the perspective of wrapping up prophetic events and Yahweh’s grand timescale (Dan. 2:28, 45; Luke 18:8; 2 Pet. 3:8-13; Rev. 1:12, 22:6). As they hold on (to the Holy True Messiah), they will keep their crown (reward) (verse 11; James 1:12; Rev. 2:10).

3. Christ’s award for the overcoming Philadelphians (Rev. 3:12, 13).

a. They will be pillars in the Temple of God (probably relating to service in Christ’s kingdom being built properly on the apostles foundation, Rev. 21:14; Eph. 2:20-22). They will be written on by Christ Himself which means intimacy and ownership. Overcomers receive on their new bodies the name of Yahweh Father, the new Jerusalem, and Yahweh Jesus’ new name (verse 12; Eze. 48:35; Rev. 19:12-22:5).

b. There is a universal call to all of Christ’s churches then and now to hear and obey this message.

THOUGHT: Jesus promises future glories to those who will patiently trust, keep His word, endure, and follow Him now!

Revelation 2:12-29

2011-09-22T10:46:00.000-07:00

YAHWEH JESUS IS IN THE MIDST OF HIS CHURCHES (PART 2)

Revelation 2:12-29

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Church #3: The Church at Pergamum

A. A brief history of the city of Pergamum: Pergamum in 95 A.D. was a large (over 200,000 population) and important city located about 70 miles north of Smyrna and about 15 miles inland from the coast. It boasted itself as the capital city of Asia Minor (along with Ephesus and Smyrna), had the second largest library in Rome with over 200,000 volumes (Alexandria was first), and was known as a learning and medical community. It also was a multiple temple and shrine city with three temples dedicated to the worship of the Roman Emperor (represented by a Bull), and temples to Zeus, Athena, and the healing god Asclepius (represented by a snake). In modern Turkey today, the city is known as Bergama.

B. Christ’s attributes, assessment, and award for the congregation at Pergamum (Revelation 2:12-17).

1. Christ’s attribute for the church to meditate on is found in Revelation 2:12. He identifies Himself as the one who has the sharp two-edged sword and we know from Revelation 1:16 that it comes out of His mouth. This shows Yahweh Jesus as the one who conquers, judges, and rebukes by the power of His words and the one who perfectly carried out the words of prophecy (Isa. 11:4; Rev. 12:10, 11; 19:13-15).

2. Christ’s assessment of the churches situation and problem (Rev. 2:13-16).

a. Christ knows that the church at Pergamum is in a city that has given itself over to multiple forms of idol worship including Emperor worship (Satan’s throne). In the midst of persecution, including one of their own being killed by the name of Antipas, the church has not denied Christ’s name or their faith (verse 13).

b. Christ knows that there are some in their congregation who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans (like the Ephesian church Rev. 2:2, 6) which ends up leading people astray. From church history we know that this group taught their followers to overcome (“nike” Greek) the lusts of this world and their flesh by giving themselves to licentious living. They probably believed that their physical bodies didn’t matter since God is essentially Spirit. Christ likens this teaching to that taught by the prophet Balaam. He advised the pagan King Balak on how to lure the Israelites into the sin of sacrificing to the false gods of the Moabites by seducing them by their women (verses 14, 15; Numbers 22:1-25:17, 31:16; 2 Peter 2:15; Jude 11).

c. Christ knows that false teachers need to repent (change their mind and accept and do truth) and the church leaders need to repent and not allow these false teachers to teach and exercise authority. Without repentance the church could come under Yahweh Jesus’ discipline (verse 16).

3. Christ’s award for His faithful ones (Rev. 2:17). To His true overcomers who will listen and put His words into practice Christ will give two things: 1) Hidden manna – manna was the daily food given by Yahweh to the Israelites during their 40 years of wandering in the desert of which some of it was hidden in the Ark of the Covenant (Ex. 16:31-34; Heb. 9:4). This promises sustaining intimacy with Christ now and millennial and eternal intimate fellowship in His service in the future (John 6:48-51; Revelation 19:6-9); 2) A White Stone with a new name – In the Roman world, white stones were given for special feasts or banquets which were presented at the time of entrance into the event. Many times the name of the person was inscribed on the stone. Christ is going to give His overcomers a stone with a new name picked out specifically by Him (Christ also has a new name, Rev. 19:12).

THOUGHT: Believers today need to watch out for some of the same problems that influenced the church at Pergamum. The lust for other things (idols) and sexual immorality are all around us. Christ’s word will speak to us and purify us if we let it!

II. Church #4: The Church at Thyatira

A. A brief history of the city of Thyatira: Thyatira was a merchant city located 45 miles southeast of Pergamum. During 95 A.D. at the time of the writing of Revelation, the city had a multitude of trade guilds which supplied the Roman military (being one of its military outposts) as well as the other cities since it was on Asia Minor’s major trade route. There were guilds (workers unions) for wool, linen, clothing, dyers, potters, bakers, leather, tanners, bronze smiths and slave traders. In the city were temples to Apollo, Artemis (Diana) and shrines to individual trade guild gods. Members of the trade guilds were expected to worship the god of that guild, participate in its feasts, and follow its social and sexual practices. Not participating in any of these could involve financial and social hardship. Lydia was from Thyatira as a “seller of purple” when the Apostle Paul witnesses Christ to her in Philippi (Acts 16:12-15).

B. Christ’s attributes, assessment, and award for the congregation of Thyatira (Revelation 2:18-29).

1. Christ’s attributes for the church to meditate on are found in Rev. 2:18. He is the Son of God which is the only time it is used in the book. The Apostle John uses this term to show the divine side of the Messiah whom he described for us as the Son of Man earlier (Rev. 1:13; John 1:34, 49; 20:31). He is also the one with blazing fire eyes and glowing bronze feet. His eyes speak of His all-knowing ability to exercise wise judgment and His feet speak of His ability to purify and conquer. These came from Revelation 1:14, 15 and could particularly speak to trade workers.

2. Christ’s assessment of the churches situation and problem (Rev. 2:19-25).

a. Christ knows the Thyatiran church’s ministry of love and faith, their endurance (the ability to “remain under” their situations), and commends them for doing more now than when they first started
(verse 19).

b. Christ knows that as a church, they are putting up with and giving a woman, who calls herself a prophetess, a platform to teach ideas that are not in conformity to the teaching of Christ and the apostles. Christ identifies her as similar to the Old Testament person Queen Jezebel. She was a Baal worshipping Canaanite who married Israel’s King Ahab and brought idolatry and deception to Israel provoking Yahweh to anger (I Kings 16:31-33; 2 Kings 9:22). This prophetess in Thyatira seemed to be teaching a form of Nicolaitan licentious living which has already been discussed in the churches of Ephesus and Pergamum (verse 20).

c. Christ has already confronted her with her error before this and has been waiting patiently for her and her followers to repent (change their mind and obey) (verse 21). If they choose to go their own way and not follow Christ’s discipline which could include affliction and suffering (“thlipsis” Greek), sickness (“I will cast her on her bed”), and death (verse 22). When this happens, those in the seven churches will take Christ’s discipline seriously (verse 23; I Cor. 11:30-32; James 5:19, 20; I John 5:16, 17).

d. Christ speaks comfort for those in the church who refuse to accept this prophetesses teachings on “the deep things of Satan.” This is probably the wrong view that Christians cannot be hurt by this world, and therefore can participate in it fully, because they are essentially spiritual beings. However, Christ says they should “hold fast” to His and the apostles true teaching until He comes. Christ took on human flesh (now has a glorified human body) and walked in purity and truth in His mortal body (verse 24, 25; Col. 3:5; I John 2:14-20).

3. Christ’s award for the faithful Thyatirans (Rev. 2:26-29).

a. True overcomers in Christ are promised a co-reigning with Him in His Millennial Kingdom on this earth (verse 26, 27; Psalms 2:8, 9; Daniel 7:27; Rom. 8:17; Rev. 20:4-6).

b. True overcomers in Christ (the Morning Star, Rev. 22:16) are given the glories and splendors of being with Christ forever. In new and glorified bodies, they can shine like the brightness of the heavens (verses 28, 29; Daniel 12:3).

THOUGHT: This is the center church (the fourth out of seven). Many times the main Hebrew and Greek message is found in the center of a writing. In this writing, the Son of God calls us to hold to the truth and to live for the Kingdom. This is also the message of the whole book!

Revelation 2:1-11

2011-09-08T14:52:00.000-07:00

YAHWEH JESUS IS IN THE MIDST OF HIS CHURCHES (PART I)

Revelation 2:1-11

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Church #1: The Church as Ephesus (Rev. 2:1-7).

A. A brief history of the city of Ephesus: Ephesus was one of the most important and largest cities in Asia Minor (modern Turkey) at the time of Revelation (95 A.D.). It was given “free city” status and, therefore, could be self governed. It was a major trade city for Rome and a “temple warden” city for the fertility goddess Artemis (Greek) or Diana (Roman version). In this city of over 200,000 people, the temple had thousands of priests and priestesses dedicated to prostitution. The Apostle Paul planted the church at Ephesus in about 52 A.D. (Acts 18:19-21), spent three years ministering there between 54-56 A.D. and wrote his Ephesian letter while imprisoned in Rome in 60 A.D.

B. Christ’s attributes, assessments, and award for the congregation at Ephesus (Revelation 2:1-7).

1. Christ’s attributes for the church to meditate on are found in Revelation 2:1. He identifies Himself as the churches’ powerful protector (“holding the seven stars in His right hand”) as well as the one who has intimate knowledge of their activity (“walking in their midst”) (Rev. 2:1, 1:13, 20). 2. Christ’s assessment of the churches’ situation and problem (Rev. 2:2-6).

a. Christ knows that the Ephesian church has been faithful at discerning and calling out evil men who are false apostles (probably claiming special authority from God) (verse 2). These are probably the same as the Nicolaitanes of verse 6 (possibly followers of the deacon Nicolas Acts 6:5). From church history we know that this group seemed to be teaching their followers to overcome (“nike” Greek) the lusts of this world and their flesh by giving themselves over to licenscious living. They probably believed their physical bodies didn’t matter since God is essentially Spirit. However, they were deceived since Christ took on human flesh (now has a glorified human body) and walked in purity, truth, and sinlessness (Revelation 2:2, 6; Col. 3:5;
I John 2:14-20).

b. Christ knows that the Ephesian church has patiently endured hard conditions for Christ’s name and have not given up. This probably relates to being a church in such a pagan city (verse 3).

c. Christ knows that the Ephesian church has forsaken or left their first love. The “first love” is like the passion and zeal of a new bride and groom for each other. Leaving the “first love” of Christ probably indicates a staleness or mediocrity with their individual and congregational witness of Christ’s love. If this church does not repent (change their minds or perspective), they could be removed as Christ’s light to this city (verse 4 and 5).

3. Christ’s award for the faithful Ephesians (Revelation 2:7).

a. There is a universal call to all of His churches then and now to this message. To repent, a person or congregation first needs to listen and obey (Greek “listen under”) (Isa. 6:9, 10; Matt. 13:9-17).

b. Christ’s true overcomers will eat of the tree of life. In other words, they will come back to the full situation of life with Yahweh and even more so that Adam and Eve were banished from (Gen. 3:22-24; Revelation. 22:1-5). This seems to promise a deeper life of knowing Yahweh Father and Son now and throughout eternity (John 17:1-5).

THOUGHT: On a scale of 1 to 10 is our passion and love for Christ higher or lower than it was 3 months, 3 years, or 30 years ago? How about our church as a whole?

II. Church #2: The Church at Smyrna (Rev. 2:8-11).

A. A brief history of the city of Smyrna: Smyrna was a large (200,000 population) and beautiful seaport city located 35 miles north of Ephesus. In modern Turkey, it is now called Izmir and is known to be the birthplace of Homer. It was an educational center for the area, wealthy, and a center for imperial worship as well as the Greek temples of Cybele, Zeus, Apollo, Asclepius, and Aphrodite. Under the Roman Emperor Domitian (81-96 A.D.) emperor worship became compulsory. A Christian who refused to worship Caesar or any of the other numerous Greek gods risked societal alienation, persecution, and death.

B. Christ’s attributes, assessment, and award for the congregation at Smyrna (Revelation 2:8-11).

1. Christ’s attributes for the church to meditate on are found in Revelation 2:8. He identifies Himself as the churches’ promised Old Testament king and Messiah (Rev. 1:17; Isa. 44:6) that has made and will make everything right in the end. Yahweh Jesus suffered, died, and rose again and He will supply strength for the believers in Smyrna to do the same.

2. Christ’s assessment of the situation without a rebuke (Rev. 2:9, 10).

a. Christ knows that the Smyrnan church has had suffering (“thlipsis,” distress, ordeal) and economic hardship due to their stand for Christ. Evidently, Jewish non-believers have made matters worse for them by aggressively persecuting them and reporting Christian non-compliance (verse 9).

b. Christ knows that the Smyrnan church will still suffer some more specific things in the future and will experience a certain amount of fear. For a specific ten day period of time (same as Dan. 1:12-15), they would undergo very severe suffering and they are encouraged to remain faithful (verse 10a,b,c).

3. Christ’s award for the faithful Smyrnans (Revelation 2:10d, 11).

a. Christ’s faithful sufferers will receive a crown of life. The crown (“stephanos” Greek) was a reward given to the winner of the Olympic Games receiving a laurel wreathed (woven branched) crown. This seems to be a consistent specific reward for faithful suffering (James 2:12) which overcomers are rewarded with to lay before Christ’s throne in worship (Rev. 4:10d).

b. There is a universal call to all of His churches then and now to overcome and know that even though the first death hurts, the second death (being thrown into Hell, Rev. 20:6, 14, 15) will never hurt them (Rev. 4:11).

THOUGHT: Let’s meditate on our Yahweh Jesus’ attributes this week and receive
His strength.

Revelation 1:9-20

2011-09-01T15:23:00.000-07:00

THE COMMISSION OF THE APOSTLE JOHN’S WRITINGS AND
THE VISION OF THE GLORIFIED CHRIST AND
HIS PRESENCE IN THE MIDST OF HIS CHURCHES

Revelation 1:9-20

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. The Apostle John gives the historical setting as well as his commission to write the book of Revelation (Rev. 1:9-11)

A. John tells his Christian readers and hearers that he is their fellow brother (they are all in the same family of God in Christ). He also explains to them that they share fellowship together (Greek “koinonia”) in three areas: 1) suffering (Greek “thlipsis,” distress, ordeal); 2) kingdom (as believers we are now part of Christ’s kingdom (Matthew 28:18-20; John 12:12-16) and await Christ’s completed kingdom reign (Rev. 19:11-22:5); 3) patient endurance (Greek “hupomona,” remaining under), as Christians we call upon Yahweh to help us to remain a faithful witness through the trials and temptations of this world we are in (I Cor. 10:13; Rev. 1:9a).

B. John had been exiled to the island of Patmos and writes Revelation from there (Rev. 1:9b).

1. The historian Eusebius confirms that the Apostle John was banished to the island of Patmos in the fourteenth year of Roman Emperor Domitian’s reign (95 A.D.).

2. It was an island 10 miles long and 6 miles wide 37 miles off the coast of Miletus. It became a penal colony area for Rome but also had a decent population of citizens on the island, two gymnasia and a temple of Artemis.

3. There is presently a cave near the top of the island marked off as a shrine where it is thought that John received his visions and wrote the book of Revelation. He probably did this while looking out on the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea.

4. He had been banished because of his teaching and preaching the Word of God and for being a witness of Jesus Christ.

5. Emperor Domitian died in 96 A.D., a general amnesty for the exiles were given, and it is believed that John returned to Ephesus.

THOUGHT: Right now, we as believers share a life in Christ’s Kingdom that has trouble and needs patient endurance. However, as we are faithful to our individual callings, Yahweh accomplishes His Kingdom purposes in and through us. Look at the example of the Apostle John!

C. John explains how he received his calling and commission to write the book of Revelation in a manner similar to an Old Testament prophet (Rev. 1:10,11; Ezek. 2:2, 3:12, 14, 24; Dan. 7:1,15).

1. John’s commission happened on the Lord’s Day. Scripture and church history helps us to understand this as Sunday (John 20:19, 26; Acts 20:7;
I Cor. 11:20; 16:2).

2. John’s commission happened while he was in the Spirit. This seems to be another way of saying that he was given the Holy Spirit’s understanding in his spirit through supernatural means (Rev. 4:2, 17:3, 21:10).

3. John heard his commission from a loud voice (probably Christ’s see also Rev. 1:19). It sounded to him like a trumpet which many times is used in Scripture to alert, warn, and prepare God’s people (Matt. 24:31;
I Cor. 15:52; I Thes. 4:16).

4. John was to write this book on a scroll to seven churches in Asia Minor which would now be in modern day Turkey.

a. This scroll would have been on a papyrus scroll and on completion might have spanned 17 feet rolled out.

b. The seven churches were probably selected because they were well known to the Apostle John, they were postal distribution centers, and they each showed important church issues (which churches for all time could relate to).

c. It seemed to be that the book would first go to Ephesus where it would be copied and then sent off to the next destination. After all seven churches copied their scroll, it was then probably sent to other Christian churches where it became widely known.

THOUGHT: Christianity is both supernatural and rational at the same time. The commission, writing, and distribution of Revelation shows both/and not either/or.

II. The Apostle John’s vision of the glorified Christ (Rev. 1:12-20).

A. Someone “like a son of man” is seen among or in the midst of a golden seven- branched lampstand which represents the seven churches (Rev. 1:12, 13a).

1. The coming Messiah (anointed one) is prophesied in Daniel 7:13 as “someone like the son of man” and while on earth Jesus called Himself the “Son of Man” (Luke 5:24, 6:5, 17:22, 24, 26, 30). Now in Revelation, John picks up this theme for our glorified Jesus Christ.

2. The golden seven-branched lampstand comes from the Old Testament lampstands found in the Jewish Tabernacle and Temples (Ex.25:31-40) and from the prophet Zechariah (Zech. 4:2 already used in Rev. 1:4 and will be used again in Rev. 11:4). The lampstand was the structure which supported the oil which could be lit and give light to an area. In the New Testament, Christ’s church is Yahweh’s light to this world (Matt. 5:14).

THOUGHT: It is interesting that the churches vision of the glorified Christ, after a time of over 60 years from the time of Acts, finds Jesus actively among His churches. We are not alone!

B. John next describes features of the glorified Son of Man (Rev. 1:13b-16).

1. John describes Jesus’ clothes, head and hair, eyes, feet, voice, right hand, mouth and face in which reveals the majesty of the King-Judge-Messiah of Isaiah 22:21, 22, Daniel 7:9-14, and Daniel 10:5, 6.

2. A ruler or dignitary wore a long robe with a golden sash around the chest as opposed to a day laborer whose robe would have been tucked in with the sash around his waist (Rev. 15:6). The white hair and blazing eyes speaks of Christ’s wisdom to judge (Daniel 7:9). The glowing feet show Christ’s ability to conquer and purify (Ezek. 1:13, 27). The voice of many waters demonstrates Christ’s awesome power and glory (Ezek. 43:2), His right hand held seven stars which are interpreted for us as seven angels evidently assigned to each of the seven churches (Rev. 1:20; Dan. 12:1; angels are always real angels in the rest of the book). His mouth with the double- edged sword expresses Christ’s ability to conquer, judge, and rebuke by the power of His Words, Word and faithfulness to His Father’s will (Isa. 11:4; Rev. 12:10, 11; 19:13-15). Finally, Christ’s amazingly bright shining face reveals His divine splendor and glory (Matt. 17:2).

C. This glorified Christ which the Apostle John has just seen is the very same one which was prophesied to come and the one who has accomplished the salvation of all who have and will believe (Rev. 1:17-20).

1. The Apostle John is strengthened by the glorified Christ after seeing this supernatural amazing sight (verse 17a; Matt. 17:6, 7).

2. Jesus proclaims Himself as the First and the Last revealing Himself to be the prophesied Old Testament’s King and Messiah (verse 17b; Isa. 44:6).

3. Jesus proclaims His own death, burial, and resurrection as the basis and power of His authority just as He has always done (verse 18a; John 5:19-30, 11:25; Matt. 28:18-20).

4. Jesus proclaims that because of His faithfulness to this plan of redemption that He now possesses the keys to death and Hades (the place of the dead which was Sheol in the Old Testament) (verse 18b; Isa. 53:4-12; John 5:38; Matt. 16:18, 19; John 5:38).

5. The Apostle John is again told to write this message of the glorified Christ which will include the things which he has seen (visions and instructions) for both the current and future time periods (verses 19, 20).

Revelation 1:4-8

2011-08-25T13:11:00.000-07:00

THE GREETING AND THEME OF THE BOOK OF REVELATION
Revelation 1:4-8

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. The amazingly deep greeting in the book of Revelation (Rev. 1:4-6).

A. John writes to not just one church but to seven churches in Asia Minor (modern day western Turkey). This message of Revelation was very important and ultimately was for every local church for the last almost 2,000 years of church history (verse 4a).

B. As with most New Testament letters or books, it starts off with a greeting from the writer and a greeting from Yahweh (verses 4b-5a).

1. Grace (Yahweh’s unmerited favor) and peace (Yahweh’s Shalom) bestowed upon the seven churches (and all future churches). These ultimately can be given only through belief in Jesus Christ’s life, death, and resurrection (verse 4b; Rom. 1:7, 5:1-5).

2. This comes from Yahweh who has revealed Himself as Father, Spirit, and Son (verses 4c-6).

a. Yahweh Father is He who is, was, and is to come. This is very closely related to Yahweh’s name (the “I am who I am”) (Ex. 3:14).

b. Yahweh Spirit is represented as the seven spirits before the throne, a reference to the Holy Spirit from the book of Zechariah (Zech. 4:1-10; Rev. 4:5).

c. Yahweh Son (Jesus Christ) is last in this list because the whole book is about Him including His work in redemption, His work among the churches, His judgments, and His coming in His glory to set up His earthly and eternal kingdom (verse 5a).

C. Jesus Christ is described for us with three of His titles and three of His works (verses 5b-6).

1. Title #1 – He is the faithful witness. He is the one who will faithfully speak out Yahweh’s plans of redemption and kingdom for eternity (as the prophesied Messiah and Son of David (2 Sam. 7:8-16; Ps. 89:36, 37; Daniel 9:26a; Isa. 52:13 – 53:12).

2. Title #2 – He is the firstborn from the dead. He is the highest in preeminence (the Hebrew-Greek idea of firstborn) as well as the first to rise from the dead with a new body (Psalms 89:27; Acts 2:29-36; Col. 1:18;
I Cor. 15:23).

3. Title #3 – He is the ruler of the kings of the earth. He will ultimately prove Himself to be this earthly king and the eternal King! (Psalms 89:27;
Dan. 7:13, 14; Rev. 19:16).

4. Work #1 – He presently loves us as members of His church body
(Hebrews 13:5, 6, 8).

5. Work #2 – In the past, He has freed us from our sins by His blood
(Romans 3:21-26).

6. Work #3 – He has made all of His believers part of His Kingdom and Priesthood now, but these will be fully realized at His second coming
(Dan. 12:33, Ex. 19:6; Rev. 20:6).

7. Jesus Christ deserves to receive glory (“doxa”) from all of His creation but especially from His people (Isa. 45:23; Phil. 2:10, 11). He deserves the authority and power to rule throughout all the ages (eternity)
(Matt. 25:31-34). May the truth of this statement be affirmed! So be it! Amen (“be firm”)!

THOUGHT: Which title or work of Jesus Christ brought you deeper into Yahweh’s presence today? Let’s make sure and bring a fresh offering of praise to Him for this.

II. The ultimate theme in the book of Revelation is the coming glorified Christ to rule and reign on this earth and throughout eternity (verses 7, 8).

A. The prophecy of verse 7 comes from a combination of two Old Testament Scriptures found in Daniel 7:13, 14 and Zechariah 12:10.

B. Besides these Old Testament passages, Jesus and the New Testament writers prophesied the same thing (Matt. 11:2, 24:3, 30, 31; Acts 1:3, 6, 11; 2 Thes. 2:1, 8).

C. There are seven places in the book of Revelation where Christ Himself tells of His coming (Rev. 2:5, 16; 3:11; 16:15; 22:7, 12, 20).

D. Christ will return in the sky with the clouds. This could be real clouds or/and His Saints (Dan. 7:13, 18, 27; Rev. 19:14).

E. At His return, every eye will be able to see Him. This possibly implies both the living and the dead. Perhaps Yahweh will miraculously open each person’s eyes in visionary form if this is the case.

F. Those who pierced Him (the Apostle John used the Hebrew Text rather than the Septuagint here as in John 19:37) could be both the Jewish and Roman non- believers as were the original Christ crucifiers.

G. Both Zechariah 12:10-13 and Daniel 7:19-26 talk about a time of great mourning and tribulation that will come on the earth before Christ’s return. The book of Revelation will show the truthfulness of this prophecy.

H. An affirmation of the truthfulness of the statement of verse 7 is given by the Lord God (“Kurios ha Theos”) Himself in verse 8.

1. In context, the best person of the Trinity to make this statement seems to be Yahweh Father since He is identified as this part of the Trinity in Rev. 1:4. However, the person of the Son says many of the same things in
Rev. 21:12, 13 so there seems to be a handing over of authority between the Father and Son for a certain period of time. This follows the patterns of Daniel 7:9-14 as well as I Cor. 15:24-28.

2. Alpha is the first letter of the Greek alphabet and Omega is the last letter. Therefore, Yahweh Father is the great “I Am” (Ex. 3:15) who has existed for all eternity perfectly carrying out His will (Isa. 41:4) as the Almighty Ruler of All.

THOUGHT: The second coming of Jesus Christ is a Scriptural certainty backed up by the guarantee of the truthfulness and word of Yahweh Himself.

INTRODUCTION, BACKGROUND, AND REVELATION 1:1-3

2011-08-18T14:53:00.000-07:00

INTRODUCTION, BACKGROUND, AND
REVELATION 1:1-3

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. The author of Revelation is the Apostle John.

A. Revelation 1:1, 4, 9; 22:8 give the author’s name as that of John.

B. The early church leaders including Papias, Justin Martyr, Iranaeus, Clement of Alexandria, Tertullian, Hippolytus, Origen, Methodius and the Muratorian fragment all attest to the Apostle John as the writer.

C. Internal evidence inside the book of Revelation compared with John’s other writings (The Gospel of John, I, II, III John) show many similarities and few differences. Some examples are:

1. The use of “The Word” (John 1:1, I John 1:1, Rev. 19:13).

2. The use of “fellowship with” or “companion in: (I John 1:3, 6, 7; Rev. 1:9, 18:4).

3. The use from the quote from Zech. 12:10 in exactly the same way
(John 19:37, Rev. 1:7).

D. The Apostle John’s five books show a rich and full dynamic of Yahweh’s salvation found only in Jesus Christ.

1. The Apostle John wrote the Gospel of John to give instruction on justification (believing in Christ) and sanctification (believers living out their life in Christ) (John 20:31).

2. He wrote his letters of I, II, III John to the churches in Asia Minor concerning doctrinal issues (I John 4:2, 3; II John 7) and how to have real fellowship in Yahweh Father and Yahweh Jesus (sanctification,
I John 1:3, 4)

3. He wrote Revelation to reveal the glorified Christ to the churches of Asia Minor (sanctification, Revelation chapters 2 and 3) and to reveal Jesus judging this earth, setting up His Earthly and Eternal Kingdom reign, the bodily resurrection of the dead, and rewarding His faithful believers (glorification, Revelation chapters 1, 5-22).

E. The Apostle John became one of Jesus’ closest disciples while ministering with Him. John reclined close to Jesus at the Lord’s supper (John 13:23), He witnessed the transfiguration (Luke 9:28), and was entrusted with the care of Mary (the mother of Jesus, John 19:26-27).

Thought: How do we determine teaching and preaching credibility today in our churches?

II. A date for the writing of Revelation that is the most plausible and historically substantiated is around 95 A.D.

A. This date best agrees with the early church leaders who place John’s exile to Patmos during the time of the Roman emperor Domitian (81-96 A.D.).

B. One possible scenario: John took care of Mary (Jesus’ mother) after 33 A.D. where the apostles headquartered in Jerusalem. He might have become an evangelist – church planter in Asia Minor setting up his missionary headquarters in Ephesus. He might have written the Gospel of John at Ephesus (as per Irenaeus) between 48-52 A.D. to strengthen the seven churches when he moved back to Jerusalem. He participated in the Apostle Paul’s concordat of missionary division around 48 A.D. (Gal. 2:1-10). At the time of the writing of
I John (probably 64-65 A.D.), he seems to be back in Jerusalem with the other apostles (I John 2:19). After the Jewish war (66 A.D.) broke out and the destruction of the Jewish temple (70 A.D.), he moved back to Ephesus and continued his ministry for another 25-30 years in Asia Minor. He is exiled to Patmos and writes Revelation around 95 A.D.

C. Some Bible scholars and commentators prefer an earlier date for the writing of Revelation under the Roman emperor Nero (54-68 A.D.). Many of these commentators see the events of Revelation as primarily historical and dealing with the things Christians struggled with under Nero. Primarily a futurist exegesis of Revelation is thought to follow the rules of the literal-historical- grammatical interpretation of prophecy and so will be used in this study. Mention will be made to those that have other persuasions.

III. The Apostle John was given a wonderful message by the God of the Universe (Yahweh) which he was instructed to write down and share with all of Yahweh’s servants (Rev. 1:1-3).

A. It is called the revelation of Jesus Christ (verse 1).

1. The English word revelation comes from the Greek word “apokalypsis.” The word has a prefix “apo” (away or take away) and the root “kalypsis” (a cover) bringing out the ideas of taking away a cover, an uncovering, or unveiling. Thus, revelation discloses or reveals something which has been concealed. It’s amazing!

2. This message is specifically going to unveil the message and glory of Jesus Christ our Yeshua Ha Meshiach (Savior Messiah or Annointed Savior). We will be able to see Jesus in a whole new way!

B. It is going to speak of things that “must soon take place” or “must happen soon” which concerns future events (verse 1). The idea is probably a Scriptural fulfilling of already mentioned prophetic events (see the similar wording of Daniel 2:28, 29, 45; Mark 13:7; Rev. 4:1, 22:6). The idea of “soon” can be looked at from Yahweh’s timetable (Luke 18:8; 2 Peter 3:8-13). It’s important!

C. John assures his readers that the things he is writing about is the very “Word of God” and the very “testimony of Jesus Christ” (verse 2). It’s reliable!

D. It is a prophecy which brings a blessing to those who will read it, hear it, and apply it (verse 3). It will bless you!

Thought: Let’s commit ourselves to reading, hearing, and applying this amazing, important, reliable, blessing producing book of Revelation!

Returning To Weekly Updates!

2011-08-18T14:42:00.001-07:00

Paeter Frandsen, here! Just wanted to let you know that this blog will now be returning to a weekly posting schedule. As smart as Dave is, some of his earlier notes (including those on Romans) had not yet entered the digital age, and so required me to type them up to post each week, which was sometimes tough to do with all I've got going on.

But from here on out I'll be posting notes that are already in a digital format and just require me to copy and paste, making weekly updates much more possible.

Thanks for your patience!

Next up is 31 weeks of Dave's teaching notes for the book of Revelation. I had the pleasure of being in Dave's class when he presented his teaching on this. His approach is very logical and grounded and treats the text with the greatest respect, as always. The book of Revelation isn't something I plan to tackle anytime soon in my blog or podcast, so I especially hope you enjoy Dave's notes as you read this encouraging book of the Bible and seek the truth!

-Paeter Frandsen

Romans 15:14-16:27

2011-08-04T15:10:00.000-07:00

PAUL BLESSES, ENCOURAGES AND GIVES HIS FUTURE PLANS TO THE CHURCH AT ROME

Romans 15:14-16:27
As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Paul praises Christ Jesus because of the great work being done among the Gentiles and his call to this work (Rom. 15:14-22).

A. The church of Rome has been a good and growing church but now with this letter they should be even more equipped to instruct (nouthetein- counsel, admonish, warn) one another (vs 14,15).

B.Paul's calling was to serve as a priest of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles (vs 16-22).
1. He proclaimed the Gospel of God to the Gentiles and the Gentiles after belief (justification) and discipleship (sanctification) became and continue to become an acceptable offering (vs 16; Rom. 1-5; 12:1).
2. He gives all the glory to Christ Jesus for his ministry (vs 17,18).
3. As an apostle, God gave Paul the ability to proclaim the Gospel through signs and miracles to areas where Christ was previously unknown (vs 19-22; I. Cor. 2:4; 2 Cor. 12:12; Isa. 52:15).

Thought: As a believer, do you know what spiritual gifts you have been given? Do you know what ministry area you have been called to?

II. Paul lets the church at Rome know of his short range and long range plans (Rom. 15:23-33).

A. Paul believed his work east of Rome had been pretty much completed in his first three missionary journeys (vs 23; Acts 13:1-20:3).

B. His future plan is to start proclaiming the Gospel West of Rome all the way to Spain and visit Rome on the way (vs 24a, 28c).

C. He currently was on his way to Jerusalem with an offering to the needy and poor Jewish believers from the Gentile churches (vs 24b-28b).

D. He knew of the dangers, asked prayer for safety, but sensed the leading of the Lord to go anyway (vs 29-33). As it turned out, the Lord had a plan to get Paul to Rome in a different way (Acts chapters 21-28).

Thought: Have you ever had the Lord change the way in which you thought you were supposed to go?

III. Paul sends his greetings to some of the believers at the church at Rome (Rom. 16:1-16).

A. Phoebe was a deaconess (diakonon) of a church at Cenchrea (seven miles from Corinth - where Paul wrote this letter). She probably was on her way to Rome and carried the letter (vs 1,2).

B. Paul greets 26 people in these verses and a third of them are women (vs 3-16).

C. Rufus (vs 13) was probably the son of Simon the Cyrene who was forced to carry the cross of Christ (Mark 15:21). It is believed that Mark's gospel was written for the church in Rome and Rufus would have been known by all the believers there (Col. 4:10; 2 Tim. 4:11).

Thought: As believers serving in Christ's Kingdom, we accomplish more together than separate.

IV. Paul finishes the letter with a warning and a blessing (Rom. 16:17-27).

A. Believers need to watch out (skopeiv - observe, mark, scrutinize) for division causers and stumbling causers in regards to their teaching (vs 17; Rom. 3:20-23; 14:13).
1. After warning and counseling them, the next step is to avoid them (vs 20; Rom. 15:14).
2. Through our knowing the truth in Scripture and applying it, God will bring restored peace through His power and disciplining process (vs 20; Gen. 3:15).

B. Believers are made firm and stable through the Gospel which is the proclamation of Jesus Christ as delivered to us in the Scriptures. The mystery of the Gentiles and Jews being one body in Christ has now been revealed and may the only God who is awesomely wise receive all the glory! (vs 21-27).

Romans 14:1-15:13

2011-07-29T08:56:00.000-07:00

WHAT BELIEVERS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FOOD, DRINK, HOLY DAYS AND UNITY

Romans 14:1-15:13
As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. In matters of Christian freedom, believers should warmly accept one another (Rom. 14:1-12).

A. A person who is weak in faith is a fellow believer in the faith. The context of this weakness relates to a believer's conscience and comes from their family background, personality, previous teaching and life events (vs 1; I Thes. 5:14).

1. In the church at Rome, believers argued over whether to eat everything or only vegetables (vs 2-5).
a. This probably had to do with Jewish dietary law practices, the way which Gentile Romans prepared food, and Roman pagan food sacrifices (vs 2,3; Lev. 11, I Cor. 8)
b. Paul's view is that we, as believers, are servants of Christ and therefore need to be careful and gentle with each other (vs 4).

2. In the church at Rome, believers argued over whether certain days were more holy or important than others. (vs 5-8)

a. This relates to Jewish feasts, new moons, and Sabbaths (Gal. 4:10; Col. 2:16).
b. Paul's view is that believers have freedom to be fully convinced in their own minds in regards to special days and food (vs 5). As long as we commit our lives to Christ and give thanks to God, we keep our walk with Christ's Spirit (vs 6-8; I Tim. 4:4,5).

B. All believers will stand before God's judgment seat which will be administered through Christ to give an account of how well we followed Christ for the purpose of reward (vs 9-12; I Cor. 3:11-15; 2 Cor. 5:9,10).

Thought: What has granting Christian freedom looked like in your life?

II. A believer's walk with Christ is a walk of love that bring glory to God (Rom. 14:13-15:13).

A. In regard's to a weak faith-conscience or a strong faith-conscience believers should not judge each other (vs 13).

B. Believers should try not to be a stumbling block (proskomma- something which trips people up) or an obstacle (skandalon- a trap or snare) to fellow believers (vs 13; I Cor. 8).

C. Paul has been convinced by Jesus that nothing is unclean (koinon- ritually impure) in itself (vs 14; Mark 7:15-23; Acts 10; I Tim. 4:4). Yet he seeks to love all believers (vs 15, 16).

D. The kingdom of God in verse 17 refers to living out our present salvation primarily in the context of the Christian community.

1. It consists of the internally motivated aspects of living life in the Holy Spirit such as righteousness (Christ-like thinking and acting), peace and joy (vs 17, 18; Mark 7:15-23; Gal. 5:13-26).

2. It consists of looking for ways to build other believers up which might include giving up an acceptable freedom, for a specific event or time, for another believer's faith (vs 19-15:2; I Cor. 8:7-13).

3. The power to live this life in the Spirit comes from looking at the life of Christ and studying and meditating on the Scriptures. These give believers and the Christian community the ability to endure hardship, stay encouraged, and have a spirit of unity (homothumadon- with the same mind, purpose. Rom. 15:3-6; Ps. 119:105; 2 Tim. 3:16).

4. It consists of accepting one another as Christ has accepted all believers, including Jews and Gentiles, to the praise and glory of God. The Gentiles coming into full salvation with the Jews fulfills certain prophecies of the Scripture and brings hope to all believers (Rom. 15:7-13; II Sam.22:50; Ps. 18:49; Deut. 32:43; Ps. 117:1; Isa. 11:10).

Thought: What are some ways we can know we are walking in the Spirit according to Romans 14:17 though 15:13? Which areas have you struggled with and how are you overcoming through Christ?

Romans 13

2011-06-23T15:34:00.000-07:00

The Christian's Obligation to Government and Society
Romans 13

As taught by Guest Geek, Richard Weisenburger

I. Part of the Christian's spiritual WORSHIP is to submit to the governing authorities. (vv 1-7)

A. The fact that we are citizens of heaven does not EXCUSE use from being responsible earthly citizens.

B. Submission to human government is required for the following reasons:

1. All authority comes from GOD and all human government is instituted by GOD. (v.1) Does this mean God approves of all those who are in power?

2. Therefore, rebellion against the government is rebellion against what GOD has ordained and will incur JUDGMENT. (v.2)

3. Government is God's servant to punish EVIL and reward GOOD. (vv 3-4) What should we do when the government is a 'bad' servant? (see Acts 5:29; also Acts 22:25)

4. Submission to human authority is also required by CONSCIENCE. (v 5)

C. Submission is demonstrated in part by paying TAXES. This is appropriate since those in authority dedicate their lives to PUBLIC SERVICE. What else do we owe to those in authority over us?

Question: Why is submission to government so important in Paul's thinking? (Hint: see 1 Timothy 2:1-4)

II. LOVE is our debt to all; it is the key to FULFILLING all obligations (vv 8-10)

A. This command (V.8) is not a prohibition of all financial DEBT but an exhortation to MAKE GOOD on all our obligations.

B. Our principle obligation is to LOVE one another.

C. Love fulfills all the requirements of the LAW because love does only GOOD. (v.10)

D. The command to love your neighbor as yourself assumes that you already KNOW HOW to love yourself.

Question: How does the admonition "Love your neighbor as yourself" lead us toward a godly expression of love?

III. We need to do these things because Christ's RETURN is imminent. (vv11-14)

A. It is time to be ALERT because the COMPLETION of our salvation is nearer than ever.

B. The nearness of the day should be reflected in our BEHAVIOR. Paul's use of the term 'armor' suggests that to do so will require us to do BATTLE. What specific behaviors does Paul warn against?

C. We can avoid these pitfalls by making no PROVISION for them and by "clothing ourselves with Jesus Christ."

Question: What are some ways that you can clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ?

Romans 12:1-21

2011-03-10T11:20:00.000-08:00

THE DEDICATED LIFE: THE HEALTHY RESPONSE OF GOD'S GOSPEL PEOPLE
Romans 12:1-21
As taught by "Guest Geek", Preston Hancock

I. Our decision to offer ourselves in worship to God is a response to our understanding of His mercy. (Rom. 12:1; 6:13)

a. We are to allow God to shape our inner lives and our outward physical conduct so that we are set apart for His glory and His use. (Mal. 1:8-13)

i. This is how we can worship God thoughtfully and deliberately. (Is. 29:13)

b. Being a "living sacrifice" is a two-part, continual life process requiring diligence and dedication:

i. We refuse to be influenced by the common thoughts, attitudes and choices of this age. (vs. 2; 2 Cor. 4:4; 1 John 2:16)
ii. We allow God's Word and the Holy Spirit to transform how we think and make decisions. (Eph. 5:8-10)

c.RESULT: Then we can test and discern (dokimazo) through experience what God's will is: what is good (and what is not). what is pleasing to Him, and what we strive toward (what is perfect). (Contrast those in Rom. 1:25-28)

Thought: In the Church in America today, there are various reasons why people choose to serve God. What are they?

II. We must remember that we are part of a larger, interconnected group of believers. We each have our individual part to play while we also support others in their ministries. (3-8; 1 Cor. 12:4-6)

a. Identifying and exercising our spiritual gifts requires sensible thinking, not thinking too much or too little of ourselves. A major "factor" also to be considered is the amount of faith each of us has. (vs. 3)

b. The exercise of our gifts is at once both an individual and a group venture and therefore full of possibilities and responsibilities. (4-5)

c. There are seven spiritual gifts we exercise. How we use our gifts should be governed by our faith in the Holy Spirit. The seven gifts are:

i. prophesy (1 Cor. 14:3)
ii. serving (1 Cor. 12:28- those able to help others)
iii. teaching (Rom. 15:4)
iv. encouraging/exhorting (Rom. 12:1; Acts 14:22)
v. giving- contributing to the needs of others generously
vi. leading- governing diligently (1 Ti. 5:17)
vii. showing mercy- cheerfully (Rom. 9:16)

Thought: Why do you think more people don't take the time to discover and use their spiritual gifts?

III. One of the marks of a follower of Christ is genuine love towards others. (John 13:35; 1 Cor. 12, 13, 14) This sincere love is engendered by hating evil and fighting for the "good thing" (Rom. 6:11-13).

a. We are to be affectionate and respectful of fellow believers, faithfully following the Spirit's lead, seeking opportunities to meet the physical and emotional needs within the body of Christ. (vs. 9-13)

b. Humbly seek to be a blessing to those you encounter, including your enemies. (vs. 14-16; Col. 4:5)

c. We are to live in a hostile world by recognizing that God will make things right and that we can overcome evil by doing the right thing. (vs. 17-21; Prov. 25:21-22)

Personal Thought: Is there someone in your life that is difficult to love or even be around? How can you meet that person's immediate need?

Romans 11:12-36

2011-01-06T09:19:00.000-08:00

GOD'S PLAN FOR THE NATION OF ISRAEL, PART III: THERE IS A BRIGHT FUTURE RECOVERY COMING

Romans 11:12-36
As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. The stumbling of the nation of Israel in unbelief opens a way of greater spiritual blessings to the rest of the world (vs. 11,12).

A. Israel has stumbled but they will recover (vs 11,12; Ezek. 37:1-28).

1. Through Israel's sin of unbelief, God has now chosen to work his kingdom program through gospel churches throughout the world (Eph. 2:14-22).

2. As the gospel is received, it produces spiritual life in the individual believer's life. As many believers are discipled in churches to produce fruit, they bless the church, the community and the world (Rom. 7:4, 12:1, 14-21).

B.The believing Gentiles throughout the world should provoke Israel to jealousy. They should see that the very same God of Israel is now alive and active in the predominately Gentile church (vs 11.12).

Thought: How does God's Kingdom program through the church bring blessings to the world?

II. Gentile believers should not become prideful or arrogant about the nation of Israel's time of mostly unbelief (vs 13-27).

A. As the apostle to the Gentiles, Paul has a two-pronged strategy (vs 13, 14; Acts 15).

B. Paul hints that Israel will one day receive Christ as a nation and bring about life from the dead (vs 15).

1. The firstfruits of verse 16a were the first offering of grain to the Lord of the newly ripened harvest (remnant Israel). These were then baked into a cake of dough (the whole batch, the converted nation) and offered before the Lord (Numbers 15:18-21).

2. The root of verse 16b consists of the conventional promises (i.e. Abrahamic: Gen. 12, 15; Davidic: 2 Samuel 7; New: Jer. 31) and everything else included in Romans 9:4,5. The branches are potential believers sprouting out from the roots of Israel's faith (Jer. 11:16).

3. The reference, "life from the dead," could be a reference to the resurrection of our new spiritual bodies and the beginning of Christ's millennial reign on earth (I Thes. 4:13-18; I Cor. 15:20-25; Rev. 1:5-8; 20:1-6).

C. God's kingdom program starts and ends with the nation of Israel and the faith as delivered through it. Gentiles need to be careful not to become arrogant concerning the nation of Israel because belief will bring them back (vs 17-27).

1. The believing Gentiles might forget God's promises to the nation of Israel (vs 17-24).

2. The Savior will fulfill all His promises to the nation of Israel (vs 25-27).

Thought: What are some ways in which Gentile unbelievers and believers have been prideful and arrogant toward Israelites?

III. The plan of God is awesome, mysterious and unsearchable (vs 28-36).

A. The gospel of salvation (faith in God's ability to save through Christ) is God's plan for sinners in the Old and New Testament (vs 28, 30-32). It is 100% reliable and certain.

B. God's election (choice) of the nation of Israel to be his instrument to reveal and be a remnant of His plan is certain. They are certain to be a light in the Millennium, the New Heaven, and the New Earth and throughout eternity (vs 28b-29, 33-36).

Romans 10:1-11:11

2010-11-11T09:11:00.000-08:00

GOD’S PLAN FOR THE NATION OF ISRAEL, Part II:
PRESENTLY THE PROMISES CONTINUE THROUGH BELIEVING ISRAEL AND BELIEVING GENTILES

Romans 10:1-11:11

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Paul’s heart’s desire and prayer to God is for the salvation of his fellow Israelites (vs 1-4).

A. Salvation (sotarian) includes justification, sanctification, glorification, deliverance from God’s wrath, and deliverance from wrong thinking (Rom. 1:15-18).

B. Even though Paul understood God’s election and foreknowledge, it didn’t stop him from serving or praying (vs 1; Rom. 8:28-9:33).

C. Paul seemed to have a “both and” mentality rather than an “either or” mentality when it came to God’s sovereignty and human responsibility (vs 1; Rom 8:27; Acts 17:24-28).

D. Trying to achieve righteousness (a right standing with God) by works will accomplish self-righteousness. Believing in the work of Christ fulfills God’s righteousness (vs 2-4; Eph. 2:8,9).

Thought: How do you see God’s sovereignty and human responsibility working together?

II. Being declared righteous by God (justification) and living out your salvation (sanctification) happens by believing and declaring that Jesus is Lord (vs 5-15).

A. Trying to be righteous before God by the Law demands 100% accuracy (vs 5; Lev. 18:5; Gal. 3:12) which for us is impossible (Rom. 3:20).

B. Attaining your righteousness before God by faith is not only possible but it is there for the asking (vs 6-15).

1. Israel was supposed to understand the concept of justification by faith from the Old Testament and from Moses himself (vs 6-13).

a. Moses not only brought the Law, he also brought the concept of forgiveness, hope, and an inner life of faith (vs 6-8; Deut. 9:4; 30:6-20).

b. Paul’s message is similar to Moses’ except that now Jesus has come, fulfilled the Law and started the New Covenant (vs 9,10; Jer. 31:31-34; I Cor. 11:25).

1. The mouth and heart coincide with confess and believe and the order comes from Moses in Deut. 30:14.
2. Confess (homologeo) means to “say the same thing” in regards to the person and provider of our faith.
3. Believing in your heart that “Jesus is Lord” brings to an individual justification (being declared righteous). This was the earliest declaration of faith by the early church (Acts 2:36; I. Cor. 12:3; Phil 2:11).
4. Confessing with your mouth brings about more of the present and future aspects of salvation.

2. Paul lists two other Old Testament passages that confirm his understanding of belief and confession (vs 11-13; Is. 28:16; Joel 2:32).

3. The Gospel (good news) is to be brought to everyone by people who have also believed and have been sent (vs 14, 15; Is. 52:7; Rom. 1:5).

Thought: How does God send people to give out His good news?

III. Even though most of the Israelites are not believing the promised message, God’s plan is still right on track (Rom. 10:16- 11:11).

A. Israel has both heard and understood but have been disobedient to the message (Rom. 10:16-21; Ps. 19:4; Deut. 32:21; Is. 65:12).

B. God has not pushed away Israel but Israel has pushed away God for the most part. During the present church age, there will always be some Israelites who will believe that are both foreknown and chosen (elected) (Rom. 11:1-7).

C. From the time of Christ until Christ’s second coming, modern Israelites are callused (hardened like a thick layer over their hearts), blinded, and deafened by God giving them over to their disobedience (Rom. 11:8-10,25; Deut. 29:4; Is. 29:10; John 12:37-42).

D. God has both allowed this and planned this to bring in the full amount of believing Gentiles and to make Israel jealous (Rom. 11:11,25).

Romans 9:1-33

2010-08-19T09:07:00.000-07:00

GOD'S PLAN FOR THE NATION OF ISRAEL, PART I: THEY ARE THE CHOSEN NATION BUT HAVE STUMBLED!

Romans 9:1-33

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Paul confirms the nation of Israel’s special place in God’s purposes and grieves over it’s lack of response to Christ (vs 1-5).

A. Chapters 9 through 11 are written to explain to believers what has happened, what is happening and what will happen to Israel.

B. A logical question for a believer who has been assured of God’s reliability concerning his/her eternal security(Rom 8:28-39) is: What is going on with God’s chosen people Israel?

C. Paul’s continual sorrow and pain over the nation of Israel is so great that he would give up his own salvation for theirs (vs 1-3).

D. In the past, God’s plan through the nation of Israel has resulted in many blessings (vs 4,5) including: 1. The adoption (Jews being children of God, Deut. 14:1; Ex. 4:22) 2. The glory (the times when God revealed His presence, Ex. 24:17) 3. The covenants (i.e. the Abrahamic, Gen. 12, 15; the Davidic, 2 Sam. 7; the New, Jer. 31) 4. The receiving of the Law, Ex. 20; Deut. 5) 5. The temple worship (Exodus and Leviticus) 6. The promises (given in the covenants and other prophecies) 7. The patriarchs (i.e. Abraham, Isaac, Jacob) 8. The human ancestry of Christ (Messiah, Matt. 1; Luke 3) 9. The spiritual ancestry of Christ is God and, therefore, Christ is God over all, blessed forever! (Col. 1:15-20, 2:9).

Thought: What is the difference between religion and relationship when it comes to God? Which have you had this week?

II. Even though many in the nation of Israel have rejected Christ, God’s word and purpose have not failed(vs 6-13).

A. Everybody born as national Israelites are not children of God (vs 6-9).

1. The promises of God were not given to all of Abraham’s seeds (descendents) but to one specific seed, Isaac, who was according to the promise (vs 6-9; Gen. 21:12).

2. Paul clearly states that the promised seed ultimately speaks of Christ(Gal. 3:16).

B. God’s purpose has stood and continues to stand because of his election (ekloga-selection, choice) (vs 10-13).

1. God’s election is not based on a person’s or nation’s moral goodness, works, or birth order. God’s choice happens way before these(vs 10-12; Eph. 1:4).

2. The idea of hating and loving as used in verse 13 is not based on God’s temperament but is based on God’s election (choice).

a. This is a Hebrew idiom (figure of speech) where the opposite is used to express a lesser degree(Gen. 29:30; Luke 14:26).

b. God did provide for Esau(Gen. 27:29; chapter 36; Deut. 23:7) and blessed him and his family in certain ways(Gen. 33:4-17).

Thought: Why should it comfort and encourage believers to know that God’s word and purpose cannot fail?

III. God’s election is based on his freedom, His mercy, His purposes, our sinfulness, and the mystery of God (vs 14-18).

A. God is not unjust but he is mercifully accomplishing His purposes in and through the lives of sinful humanity (vs 14-18).

1. He chose to show mercy to Moses and Israel by revealing His glory, His law and Himself (vs 14, 15; Ex. 33:18-34:10). However, God holds Moses and Israel responsible and desires repentance for restored fellowship (Ex. 32:30-35).

2. He chose to harden the heart of Pharaoh in order to display His power and proclaim His name (vs 16-18). However, Pharaoh is held accountable for his actions and unbelief (Ex. 5:2) and rebellion and progressively hardens his own heart (Ex. 8:32) while God seems to give him over (like in Rom. 1:18-32) to his own sinful ways (Ex. 10:1).

B. Our creator has the right to plan and form His creation according to His choosing, like a potter and His clay (vs 19-29).

1. God creates Moses, Pharaoh, and every kind of life in between to display His power and glorify His name (vs 22-24).

a. The objects of his wrath seem to be those in Romans 1:18-32 who refuse to believe in God or His salvation. Therefore, God is patient with them desiring their repentance (vs 22; Rom. 2:3, 4; 2 Pet. 3:9). They have prepared themselves and continue preparing themselves (katartismena- perfect tense) for destruction.

b. The objects of his mercy have been prepared beforehand (proatoimasen- aorist tense) for glory (vs 23; Eph. 2:6-10).

2. Paul uses Old Testament scriptures to show that God’s plan showed a time where Gentile believers would increase and Jewish believers would decrease (vs 24-29; Ho. 2:23, 1:10; Isa. 10:22,23, 1:9).

3. Paul’s Israel and present day Israel have only a remnant of true children of God because they have stumbled. They are pursuing their righteousness by works rather than by faith in Jesus Christ (vs 30-33; Isa. 8:14, 28:16).

Romans 8:28-39

2010-08-12T09:31:00.000-07:00

FOREKNOWLEDGE, PREDESTINATION, AND THE ETERNAL SECURITY OF THE BELIEVER

Romans 8:28-39

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. A believer’s present life of sanctification (growing in holiness, being set apart to God) is a cooperative effort between our new nature and the Holy Spirit (vs 28).

A. We learned in verse 22 through 26 that we presently live in “weakness” because of the struggle with our remnant flesh and our physical limitations.

B. We learned in verse 27 that the Holy Spirit prays for us in precise, unspoken ways according to God’s will which strengthens us.

C. The “all things” are the sufferings of this present world which all believers now go through (vs 28; Rom. 8:17,18,23; 5:3-5).

D. The “ones loving”(agaposin- present, active, participle) God are obedient believers who are serving God in the Holy Spirit rather than following their flesh (vs 28; Rom. 6:6-13,16,17,20-23; 7:4-6,25; 8:1-5,13,14; John 15:8-17).

1. These “God-loving ones” have been called (invited) according to the purpose (plan, design, will) of God (vs 28; Rom. 1:6,7).

2. These “God-loving ones’” present weaknesses and sufferings work together under the Holy Spirit’s leading (Rom. 8:13,14) for good (something upright and intrinsically valuable such as fruit unto holiness and God (Rom. 6:22, 7:4; John 15:8; Eph. 2:10), and fulfilling God’s plan of conforming His created ones into Christ’s image)(vs 29; Eph. 4:23,24).

Thought: How have you seen the Holy Spirit weave your sufferings for good?

II. A believer’s present sanctification is being provided on a moment by moment basis by God, and a believer’s ultimate conformity with Christ (glorification) is eternally secure (vs 29-39).

A. In God’s plan and purpose, we have already been foreknown, predestined, called, justified, and glorified (vs 29,30).

1. Foreknow (proegno) simply means “to know beforehand” (vs 29; I Pet. 1:2).

2. Predestined (proorisen) means to mark out a boundary beforehand or to foreordain (vs 29,30) in this case to adoption and ultimate conformity to Christ(also Eph. 1:4,5).

3. Called (invited), justified (declared righteous, past-salvation) and glorified (future-salvation associated with our new bodies and ultimate conformity to Christ) add to the certainty of our salvation.

B. There are three main ways to try to make the Biblical doctrines of foreknowledge and predestination fit together with human responsibility and free will in regards to salvation.

1. Calvanism: God has a free will but humans do not. God’s foreknowledge and predestinations are based only on his unconditional choice which is governed by his attributes of love, mercy and goodness. (John 6:44; Eph. 1:4,5; I Pet. 1:2; Rom. 9:10-25 are support verses.)

2. Arminianism: God has a free will and humans have free enough wills. In this view, God knew in advance those that would eventually believe and then predestined and chose them for salvation. Therefore, God’s choice was conditionally based on the result of who would believe, (Rom. 10:13; I Tim. 2:3,4; 4:10; 2 Pet. 3:9; Eph. 1:4,5; I Pet. 1:2 are support verses.)

3. Some aspects of both views bound up in the mystery of God. (Deut. 29:29; Psalm 19; Acts 14:15-17; 17:26-28; Rom. 1:19,20 are support verses.)

C. A believer’s salvation is eternally secure. Nothing can separate a believer from the love of God (vs 31-39).

1. God has given us Christ and everything we will need for our continued growth in sanctification (vs 31,32).

2. God has set up the perimeters of our salvation, declared us righteous and through Christ’s Spirit cares for us (vs 33,34).

3. A believer can never be separated from the love of Christ or the love of God in Christ (vs 35-39).

a. Presently a believer has everything needed to conquer or win a most glorious victory in spite of the severe suffering in this world (vs 35-37).

b. Presently and in the future a believer cannot be separated by any unknown bodily existence or spiritual force (vs 38-39).

Thought: Do you have doubts of your salvation? Why?

Romans 8:1-27

2010-07-29T09:08:00.000-07:00

BELIEVERS NOW LIVE OUT THEIR LIFE UNDER A DIFFERENT LAW:
THE LAW OF THE SPIRIT OF LIFE

Romans 8:1-27
As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Believers in Christ Jesus should now live out their life in a new way which is free from condemnation (vs 1-4).

A. The Mosaic Law bring condemnation (a judgment against someone) to the flesh. The flesh is the core nature of unbelievers and the “sinful tendency” remnant in believer’s lives. Remember Paul’s equation of flesh (sin) + Law + death which he formulated in chapters one through seven (vs 1).

1. Believers now have dies to sin (Rom. 6:2) and have died to the Mosaic Law (Rom. 7:4) through Christ (vs 2; Gal. 3:19, 23-25; Col. 2:13-23).
2. Believers now have the law of the Spirit of life. Therefore, Paul’s new formula is new nature + Spirit= life (vs 2; Rom. 6:22,23; 7:6).

B. God has fulfilled the righteous requirements of the Law in us through our justification (past-tense salvation) in Christ (vs 3; Rom. 3:19; Matt. 5:17).

C. God desires for His believers to now learn to walk according to the Spirit so that we might fulfill His will (righteous requirement) for us (vs 4). In Paul’s mind, this would be present-tense salvation, sanctification, or walking in holiness (Rom. 6:19, 22; 7:22,25).

Thought: What are some way believers can slow down their sanctification.

II. Believers in Christ Jesus now have the choice of obeying the Holy Spirit or the flesh (vs 5-11).

A. The flesh will produce death (which for the believer is broken fellowship with God and fellow believers, loss of good fruit, and loss of reward and inheritance) and the Spirit will produce life and peace (vs 6; Rom. 6:21-23; 7:4-6; Gal. 5:16-26).

B. Living or walking in the Spirit pleases God now (vs 7,8; Gal. 3:20; Eph. 5:10).

C. All believers have the Holy Spirit living in them now (vs 9; I Cor. 12:13; Eph. 1:13).

D. All believers continue to have dying physical bodies and yet the core of their being is alive through the new nature and the Holy Spirit (vs 10). Also, because of the Holy Spirits presence, we are assured of having a resurrected spiritual body in the future (vs 11, I Cor. 15:35-49; 2 Cor. 5:1-6; Eph. 1:13,14).

Thought: If all believers have the Holy Spirit, why do some believers still pray for the Holy Spirit?

III. What the Holy Spirit now does in a believer’s life (vs 12-27):

A. He helps us “put to death” our flesh (sinful tendencies) and therefore truly live (vs 12-17; Col. 3:5-9).

1. This is a process. As we are led by the Spirit of God, we are living out our children of God position (vs 14, I John 2:28-3:3).
2. This process should not lead us back to the old ways of the Law but rather to a deeper understanding of being God’s adopted children (vs 15a; Gal. 4:6,7).
3. This process should deepen our relationship with God as our Abba (An Aramaic expression used in the family circle for father)(vs 15b, 16).
4. This process involves suffering with Christ but it will also produce future inheritance (vs 17; Matt. 19:28-30; 2 Tim 2:11-13; Rev. 20:4).

B. He will give to us our resurrected spiritual bodies as well as a restored and new heaven and earth (vs 18-23).

1. The creation was subject to frustration (“mataiotas”- vanity (Eccles. 1:1), aimlessness, inability to reach or obtain results) by God at the time of the fall (Gen. 3:14, 17-19). It is portrayed as looking forward to it’s restoration (vs 18-22; Isa. 60; Eph. 1:10; Rev. 21:1-22:6).
2. We also continue to groan because we still have our remnant flesh and physical body that are ill-adapted for eternal life (vs 23; John 14:1-4).

C. He helps us in our weakness by praying for us (vs 26, 27).

1. We pray in imprecise, spoken ways to Abba, Father (I John 5:14,15).
2. He prays in precise, unspoken ways according to God’s will (John 14:15-18).

Romans 7:1-25

2010-07-22T09:18:00.000-07:00

WHAT BELIEVERS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT LAW AND SIN

Romans 7:1-25

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Justified believers need to learn to serve God now in a new way rather than turning back to a previously tried old way (vs 1-6).

A. All believers have now died to the Law through the body of Christ (vs 1-4b).

1. Christ fulfilled the law by living a perfect life and submitting himself to a cruel death in his body (vs 4a; Matt. 5:17; I. Cor. 11:23-26).
2. We have died to the Law by uniting ourselves with Christ. We now have died with him, have fulfilled the Law in Him, and therefore the old Law should no longer have a binding or condemning force on our new lives (vs 1-3, 4b; Gal. 3:23, 24; Col. 3:1-4).

B. All believers now belong to Christ and our purpose now is to bear fruit unto God (vs 4c-6; John 15:5, 8, 15, 16; Phil. 1:21,22).

1. Living life “in the flesh”, whether as an unbeliever or a believer, produces a mixture of sin aroused by the Law. This combination produces fruit unto death (lacking God’s fellowship, will, purpose, or blessing)(vs 5; Rom. 6:19-23, 7:14-20, 8:12-14).
2. Believers have now been released from (katargeo- to make unemployed, redundant) the Law but we need to learn how to serve God now in the new way of the Spirit (vs 6; Rom. 8:2; Gal. 3:23-25; Col. 2:16-23).

Thought: What choices do we make on a moment by moment basis that determines whether we as believers produce fruit unto God or fruit unto death?

II. Justified believers have died to sin(Rom. 6:2) and have died to the Law(Rom. 7:4) and yet they still struggle with sin and the Law (vs 7-25).

A. The Law of God is holy, righteous and good (vs 7-13).

1. It reveals what sin is (vs 7-13).
2. It increases sin’s desire to sin more (like a catalyst)(vs 8-12; Rom. 5:20).
3. Paul’s spiritual formulation would be sin + Law = death(a negative spiritual reaction that is supposed to lead someone to cry out to God for mercy and belief)(vs 13; Gal. 3:23-25).

B. The Law of God is spiritual (pneumatikos) but Paul and all believers are fleshly(sarknos) when we offer ourselves to sin rather than to God (vs 14-25; Rom. 6:15-18).

1. A believer now has a new nature (2 Cor. 5:17) which desires the things of God(Eph. 4:23, 24; 5:8-10) as well as a remnant of the old self called the flesh(vs 18; Rom 8:1,4; Gal. 5:16-18).
2. The flesh is our leftover sinful tendencies and is sometimes called ethical flesh(better named unethical) by theologians. It is different from our physical or mortal bodies (Rom. 16:12, 13; 18:11).
3. The flesh seeks to reign (vs 15-20), practice evil (vs 19,21) and wage war against the new nature in order to take it captive (vs 23).
4. In Paul’s theology, a believer’s new nature desires to do what is good(vs 15, 18, 21), delights in God’s Law (vs 22) and operates to its full extent in a Spirit controlled mind (vs 23,25).

Thought: Flesh(sin) + Law = death; New nature + Spirit = life; the choice is yours. Is the thing which concerns you most leading you toward death or life?

Romans 6:1-23

2010-07-16T09:14:00.000-07:00

WHAT BELIEVERS ENTER INTO BECAUSE OF UNION WITH CHRIST

Romans 6:1-23

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. As justified believers, we are now united with Christ in his death(vs 1-7). As such we should:

A. realize tat we have dies with Christ and therefore are free to not live in sin(vs 1-5; Col. 3:3,4).

1. We now have the ability to sin less often. The outward act of water baptism is a symbol of the inward reality (vs 1-3; Col. 2:20).

2. We now have the ability to please God and live righteously (Eph. 5:8-10). Paul calls this walking in newness of life (vs. 4,5). The theological term for this is sanctification (set apart to holiness and used in vs 19,22).

B. realize that our old self (before justification) was crucified so that the body of sin (our sinful tendencies, not our physical body, Rom. 7; Gal. 5:17, Col. 2:11) might be destroyed (vs 6, 7; Eph. 4:22; 25-31; Col. 3:5-9).

Thought: How does dying with Christ free you from sinning?

II. As justified believers, we are now united with Christ in his resurrected life (vs 8-14). As such we should:

A. realize we have been raised with Christ and therefore live with him now and in the future (vs 8, Col. 3:1,2).

B. Realize that Christ (as our redeemer and example) died to sin once, now lives to please God and at the core of our being this is also true with us (vs 9-11; 2 Cor. 5:14-21; I Peter 3:18).

C. Not let sin reign (basilueto- “to be king”, a present, imperative) in our mortal (thnatos- “subject to death”) bodies (vs 12).

D. Not offer (“place at ones disposal”, a present, imperative) the parts of our bodies as tools or weapons (hopla) of unrighteousness for the purpose of sinning. Rather we are to realize we have already offered (aorist, imperative) our body parts to God as tools or weapons of righteousness (vs 13.14).

Thought: Which body part do you need to place at God’s disposal today?

III. As justified believers who are united with Christ, you have a moment by moment choice of whether to serve sin or righteousness (vs 15-23; Gal. 5:13-26).

A. The principle is this: we become servants to whatever we choose to obey (vs 15,16). Obedience to sin takes us away from God’s desired pathway for us (encompassed in the word death)(vs 16; 1 Cor. 11:27-32) and obedience to God moves us closer into His fellowship and righteousness (vs 16; I John 1:3-7).

B. By being heart-obedient to this form of teaching which has been handed over to us (“paradidomai”- as to a new slave master), we can make true progress in righteousness (vs 17, 18).

C. Like we used to offer our bodies for impurity (immoral sexual activity) and wickedness (lawlessness), we now are to offer our body parts to righteousness and sanctification (vs 19, 20; Eph. 4:23, 24; Col. 3:10-17).

D. The wages for choosing to be a servant of sin is shame and death (separated fellowship, discipline, etc.). Choosing to live as a servant of righteousness brings the gift of God’s full salvation (fellowship, blessing, reward, etc.) and eventually fullness of true life forever (including a new glorified body) (vs 21-23; Matt 19:29; I Cor. 3:11-15; 2 Cor. 5:10).

Romans 5:1-21

2010-07-08T11:51:00.000-07:00

WHAT BELIEVERS ENTER INTO BECAUSE OF JUSTIFICATION

Romans 5:1-21

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Those who have been justified (declared righteous) by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ now have these amazing benefits (vs 1-5):

A. Present and lasting peace with God. Peace is the Greek word "eirena" and comes from the Hebrew word "shalom" which means to be complete, sound, safe, free from fault, healthy and prosperous (vs 1; Col. 1:20; Eph. 2:14).

B. Access into the grace (unmerited favor) of God. The Greek word for access is the word for introducing someone into the presence of a ruler (vs 2; Eph. 1:3; Heb. 4:16; 2 Peter 1:3).

C. The ability to rejoice (boast in God; Gal. 6:14) in afflictions, tribulations or sufferings. The justified believer's peace is with God but not necessarily the things or people in this world (James 1:2-5).

1. Sufferings produce steadfast endurance (hupomonan-remain under) to bear up under the pressure of the difficulty (vs 3; 1 Cor. 10:13).

2. Steadfast endurance produces proof of approved character like gold from the furnace which has been purified and tested (vs 4; Job 23:10).

3. Approved character produces hopeful expectation in God and His promises (vs 4; 1 Tim. 3:13; James 1:4).

4. Hopeful expectation produces confidence before God (instead of shame) and a deep understanding that his Holy Spirit lives in us, helping and loving us (vs 5).

Thought: What benefit of being justified has meant the most to you this week?

II. Justified believers should be amazed at the full extent of God's love (vs 6-11).

A. Christ died for the powerless (inability because of sickness and weakness), the ungodly, sinners and enemies (vs 6, 8, 10). In other words, all of us.

B. Rarely will a person die for a righteous person (one who upholds right) although for a good person (someone who does good to others), a person might die. However, God's amazing love is shown in Christ's death for sinners (vs 7,8).

C. We have been justified (declared righteous, past tense salvation) through Christ's death. We are being and will be sanctified (made holy, present tense salvation) and glorified (future) through his life (vs 9-11).

III. Paul answers a few questions on sin and the Law (vs 12-21).

A. Sin and death came into all of the human race through the breaking of God's verbal command to Adam (v 12; Gen 3:1-19).

B. The giving of the Law by Moses was not the start of sin and death because physical death and sin was already present (vs 13,14).

C. Jesus' gift is not like Adam's trespass because Adam's trespass brought death but Jesus' gift brings life (vs 15,16).

D. Jesus' gift is like Adam's trespass in that it was by one man doing one act bringing one certain result (vs 17-19).

E. The purpose of the Law in justification was to show people that they were not able to live up to it. Therefore it was meant to lead sinners to God's grace and mercy (vs 20,21; Rom. 3:20; Gal. 13:24).

Thought: Romans 5:12-21 is a key text in the study of the Biblical concepts of original and inherited sin. For deeper and further study, I recommend "Christian Theology" by Millard J. Erickson, "Basic Theology" by Charles C. Ryrie, or Systematic Theology by Wayne Grudem.

Romans 3:21- 4:25

2010-07-01T10:17:00.000-07:00

HOW PEOPLE ARE JUSTIFIED IN THE SIGHT OF GOD
Romans 3:21- 4:25

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Since the time of Christ's death, burial and resurrection, the ability of God to declare a sinner righteous is being made known (Rom. 3:21-31).

A. This righteousness of God is apart from obedience to the Mosaic or Old Testament Law (vs. 21-23).

1. The Law and Prophets have testified to this (vs 21; 3:10-18).

2. It comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe (vs 22).

3. Everyone has sinned ("hamarton"- missed the mark) and come up short of God's power, Godness and reflection (vs 23; 1:20,23; Gen. 1:26).

B. This righteousness of God justifies (declares righteous) believers through the work of Christ Jesus (vs 24-31).

1. This is given freely (like an unpaid for gift) by God's grace (unmerited favor) to believers (vs 24).

2. Christ's work redeemed "apolutroseos" or ransomed believers by the payment of a price (vs 24; Matt. 20:28; Mark 10:45; Rom. 8:23; Eph. 1:7; Titus 2:14).

3. Christ's work propitiated "ilastarion" or satisfied the wrath of God concerning the believer's unrighteousness and sins. This word is connected to the mercy seat or covering of the ark of the covenant in the most holy place (Lev. 16:14, Heb. 9:5; I John 2:2).

a. Before the cross, God was righteous in patiently passing by past sins because of the person's belief in God's ability to forgive (vs 25).

b. Since the time of Christ, God's pinnacle of full justice has been met and, therefore, now God has a way of declaring believers righteous and the world and unbelievers guilty (vs 26; Acts 17:31; I John 1:3-2:2).

4. Christ's work eliminates the possibility of human self-righteous boasting (vs 27-34).

Thought: What would you say to someone who said that, "God will let me be with him because I have done more good things than bad"?

II. In chapter 4, Paul proves from Old Testament Scriptures his previous points (Rom. 4:1-25).

A. Abraham was declared righteous by God on account of his faith apart from his works (vs 1-5; Gen. 15:6).

B. David has faith in Yahweh's righteousness by forgiving his sins apart from works (vs 6-8; Psalms 32:1,2; 2 Sam. 12:13).

C. Abraham's faith and justification was before both circumcision and the Law (vs 9-25).

1. Abraham was declared righteous at least 14 years before he was circumcised (vs 9-12; Gen 15:6, Gen. 17:10-13).

2. Circumcision was a sign and seal of Abraham's justification by faith (vs 11).

3. Abraham received the promise through faith, not through the Law (vs 13; Gal. 3:16-19).

4. Therefore, God made Abraham the father of all believers of every nation (vs 13-17a; Gen. 12:3 Gen 17:5).

5. Abraham still believed God's promise that a son (an heir) would be born even though he was close to 100 years old and Sarah was around 90 years old (vs 17b-19; Gen. 21:1-7).

6. The record of Abraham's justification through faith in Genesis 15:6 was written for all who would believe in Jesus (vs 20-25).

Romans 2:17-3:20

2010-06-24T15:11:00.000-07:00

ALL PEOPLE NEED SALVATION, Part II:
Jews Should Not Rely On Their History Or Their Law

Romans 2:17-3:20
As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. The Jews need to watch out for boastful pride which will keep them from Christ (2:17-29).

A. In this verse, Paul definitely directly addresses the Jews (vs 17).

B. They were confident of their standing before God and viewed themselves as guides, lights, instructors, and teachers to the Gentile believers (vs 19,20).

1.The stumbling block to God's Law is humanity getting a hold of it and creating easier man-made laws that make it doable. Therefore, humans create their own system to be declared righteous in God's eyes (vs 21-23; Matt. 5:27,28).

2. Because of this type of thinking, God is blasphemed among the Gentiles (vs 24; Isa. 52:5; Ezek. 36:22).

3. Circumcision (peritoma- cut around) was meant by God to be an outward representation of an inward act of believing in God's promise and covenant (Gen. 17). Rather than being a symbol of God's work in the heart, it had become for many, man's work for the flesh to boast about (vs 25-29; Phil. 3:1-3).

Thought: Can it be harder for someone brought up in a works oriented religious environment to accept the Gospel?

II. The advantages the Jews have (Rom. 3:1-20).

A. They have been given the words of God (vs 2). This includes the entire 39 Books of the Old Testament (Hebrew Bible). Paul believed in the inspiration of the Hebrew Bible (Rom. 9:3-6).

1. Some who know the Law still do not believe what it says but God will still be true to His word (vs 3,4; Ps. 51:4; Ps. 89:30-37).

2. Those that have reasoned that they can keep God's Law have a hard time not seeing God as unjust (vs 5-8).

B. Everybody is under sin whether Jew or Greek (vs 9-20).

1. Paul supports his claim by many texts in the Hebrew Scriptures (vs 10-18; Ps. 14:1-3, 53:1-3; Ecces. 7:20; Ps. 5:9; Ps. 140:3; Ps. 10:7; Isa. 59:7,8; Ps. 36:1).

2. The Law speaks to those under the Law (the Jews)(vs 19).

3. The purpose of the Law is to bring the knowledge of sin (vs 20; Gal. 3:19-25).

Thought: In what areas of life will a person struggle if they view God as unjust?

Romans 1:18-2:16

2010-06-10T09:41:00.000-07:00

ALL PEOPLE NEED SALVATION: SUPPRESSING THE TRUTH REVEALS THE WRATH OF GOD
Romans 1:18-2:16

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. While the righteousness of God is being revealed in the Gospel, the wrath of God is being revealed in truth suppression (Rom. 1:18-32).

A. Created inside every person is a certain knowledge of God. In theology (the study of God), we call this general revelation (vs 19, 20: Ps. 19:1-6, Eccles. 3:11).

1. People should see all around them God’s eternal power.
2. People should see all around them God’s Godness “theotas”(many of his attributes).

B. Paul says that because of this people are without legal defense “anapologatos.”

Thought: How much understanding is God expecting from people around the world concerning Him? (Acts 17:24-28)

C. By not glorifying (assigning importance to) or thanking God, people who were created to do these things assign these traits to idols(vs 21-24).

Thought: What idols do we have in our world today?

D. Therefore (as a result, “dio”), God gave them over (vs 24-32, especially vs 24, 26,28).

1. God seems to increasingly remove his sin restraining power (2 Thes. 2:7).
2. The human tendency is toward more and more moral decay.
3. God does view homosexuality as moral perversion and sin in the Old Testament and the New Testament (vs 26, 27: Lev. 18:22; I Cor. 6:9; I Tim. 1:10; Rev. 22:15).
4. Paul lists 21 nouns and adjectives that people fill themselves up with (vs 29-31).

II. All unrighteous people are without excuse against God’s true righteous judgment (Rom. 2:1-16).

A. Thinking your self-righteousness will bring you right standing with God is ridiculous (vs 1-3). However, don’t confuse this and Matt. 7:1 for the same thing as true godly discernment (I Cor.5:12-6:6).
B. God is being patient “makrothumias” (which means long-suffering) toward humanity, leading people to repentance (a change of mind)(vs 4).
C. By not believing the Gospel of God’s righteousness, people store up God’s wrath for what they have believed and done. By believing the gospel and living in it, people receive eternal life and reward (vs 5_16; I Cor. 5:10; Rev. 20:11-15).

Romans 1:1-17

2010-04-29T07:29:00.000-07:00

BACKGROUND, THEME, AND ROMANS 1:1-17

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Background: The letter of Romans was written by the Apostle Paul. It was written probably in the spring of 57 AD from Corinth toward the end of his third missionary journey. We know these facts from both the Bible and history working together.

A. Known historical facts:

1. Emporer Claudius reigned in Rome from 41-54 AD.

a. He ordered the Jews to leave Rome due to trouble around 49 AD.

b. Historian Suetonious (69 to 140 AD) writes the Jews left because of “disturbances of the instigation of Chrestus (Christ).”

c. Ambrosiaster (4th Century) writes that the church of Rome was not established by an apostle but by unnamed Hebrew Christians.

B. Known Biblical facts:

1. The Bible outlines the movements of Aquila and Priscilla (Acts 18:1-4, 18, 26; I Cor. 16:19; Romans 16:3).

2. The Bible outlines the movements of the Apostle Paul (Acts 18:12; 19:8-10; Romans 15:23-25).

II. Theme and Purpose: The Apostle Paul writes Romans to a predominantly Gentile church (Rom. 1:13) for the purpose of making the gospel and salvation clear (Rom. 1:16-17). While accomplishing his main theme, he wants to explain how Israel fits into God’s plan and how believing Jews ad Gentiles should now understand the Law and the Spirit.

III. Exegeting (drawing the meaning out) Romans 1:1-17

A. What Paul was set apart to be and say (v.1-7).

1. He was a servant “doulos” who belonged to another and sent “apostolas” by another (v.1).

2. His gospel was the good news “euangelion” of God. This gospel:

a. fulfills the promises of the prophesied Messiah (v.2)

b. is about Jesus Christ our Lord. He is 100% man and 100% God (I Cor. 15:1-3).

B. Paul explains why it has taken awhile to see them and encourages them as the apostle to the Gentiles (v.8-15).

C. This true gospel is amazing! (v.16-17)

1. It is the power (strength, might, ability) of God.

2. For those who believe (have faith in, receive it) it brings salvation (deliverance). Slavation (sozo) involves past (Eph. 2:8), present (2 Cor. 2:15), and future (Rom. 13:11) aspects.

3. In it, God’s righteousness (upright character, impartial judgments) is revealed.

4. The righteousness of God comes through faith in Jesus Christ (Rom. 3:22).

James 5:7-20

2010-03-11T12:36:00.000-08:00

BELIEVERS UNDER TRIAL SHOULD PATIENTLY
PERSEVERE AND PRAY

James 5:7-20

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Believers under trial should patiently persevere (James 5:7-11).

A. The Greek word for patience is “makrothymesate” which means to be long- suffering. As believers we are encouraged (commanded) to take the long view concerning the things we experience and suffer in this world (James 5:7,8).

1. The people around the Mediterranean Sea had their rainy seasons in the late autumn (after planting) early spring (before harvest). The farmers patiently planted and patiently cared for their crops relying totally on the predictability of these rains (James 5:7b).
2. As believers we are planting the things of our lives and making Christ-honoring choices because of our hope of Christ’s return (James 5:8).
3. The coming (“parousia”) of Christ will involve the rapture (catching-up) of the believers and the start of the Millennial reign (1,000 years) of Christ on this earth. Before this time begins, believers will come before the Bema or Judgment-seat of Christ where He examines our lives in this mortal body for the purpose of our reward as co-heirs with Him (I Thes. 4:13-18; 2 Thes. 2:1; Matt. 24:27-31; 2 Cor. 5:10; Rom. 14:10-12; Matt. 25:31-34; Rom. 8:17; I Cor. 3:5-15; Rev. 19:6 - 20:6).

B. Believers under pressure and trials need to rely on the Lord rather than grumbling (to groan or sigh) against each other (James 5:9).
C. As examples of patiently persevering believers we should think of the Old Testament prophets (i.e. David, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Daniel) and Job. We need to remember that, “Yahweh blessed the latter part of Job’s life more than the first (Job 42:12; James 5:10,11).

II. Believers under trial should pray (James 5:12-20).

A. Believers under pressure and trial need to be completely honest rather than trying to out-maneuver their situation before other peoples eyes by taking oaths (James 5:12).

1. Our Lord Jesus and the Apostle Paul expounded on this subject as well (Matt. 5:33-37; Matt. 7:6-13 is a similar idea; 2 Cor. 1:17-21). The main issue that is taught is honesty and integrity in the speech of believers in their daily lives and their prayer lives.

2. Taking an oath in the name of Yahweh or God does not seem to be prohibited but should not be taken lightly or done rashly (Lev. 19:2; Psalms 24:4; Isaiah 45:23; I Thes. 2:5).

B. The believer who is under the trial should pray and can ask the church for their prayers as well (James 5:13-20).

1. Sufferers should pray and cheerful people should sing praises (James 5:13).
2. Weak and sickly sufferers can receive extra help from the prayers of their local congregation (James 5:14-20).
a. This kind of suffering Christian can ask their elders of the church (I Tim. 3:1) for special prayer using anointing oil which symbolizes the power of the Holy Spirit (James 5:14; I Sam. 10:1; 16:13; I Kings 1:34).
b. Not all sickness is the result of a persons sin (John 9:1-3) but some of it is (Matt. 9:2; I Cor. 11:30). The sickly believer should be willing to examine himself/herself, confess any sin, and humble himself/herself before the Lord. If the believer is sick because of sin, he/she will be forgiven and their body healed through this prayer of faith (James 5:15-18; I John 5:16,17).
c. As believers walk with Christ, they are given the privilege and awesome responsibility to help their fellow believers walk in the truth and therefore avoid extra destructive ramifications for them (James 5:19,20; I John 5:14-17).

James 4:1 - 5:6

2010-03-11T12:32:00.000-08:00

A BELIEVER WHO IS “SLOW TO ANGER” WILL BE BLESSED
AND BE A BLESSING TO OTHERS
James 4:1 - 5:6

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. James completes the main body of his letter to the scattered Jewish Christian churches in James 4:1 - 5:6. His desire has been to instruct these believers in the way of the engrafted word (James 1:21) which can bring the righteousness of God (James 1:20) and blessing to their lives (James 1:25). He desires for these believers to live out three sanctifying principles in their life (James 1:19) to be:

A. “quick to hear” (James 1:21 - 2:26) - by this believers should be work-doers, serving and caring for others as God directs them. This will help them not to listen to their sinful flesh.
B. “slow to speak” (James 3:1-18) - by this believers should restrain their speaking by leading a life of gentleness and meekness. This will help them not to speak with sinful words which steers their lives off course.
C. “slow to anger” (James 4:1 - 5:6) - by this believers should lead a life of humility and total dependence on God. This will help them to not deceive themselves by their sinful motives.

II. Fleshly anger comes from worldly thinking and self-centered motives and therefore cannot be used to bring about God’s righteousness (James 4:1-5; James 1:20).

A. Some of these believers were having wars and fights among themselves in their churches (James 4:1,2).
B. All believers have new natures (2 Cor. 5:17) as well as remnant’s of old flesh (Rom. 7:23) are a war zone until our final glorification. James uses a word in verse one that describes a war campaign or military battle that is currently going on in the life of every believer (stratuomenon - present tense, middle voice,
participle).
C. Are we as believers choosing to live according to our old self-centered, pleasure grabbing ways or Christ’s way? The first way will exalt ourselves and be quickly used up and the second way will exalt Christ, express friendship with God and last forever (James 4:3-5, 2:23; Exodus 20:5, 24:14; Zech. 8:2; I John 2:15-17).

III. God’s solution and remedy for a believers self-centered, prideful anger is humility. Humility brings our life back under the control of the Scriptures and the Holy Spirit (James 4:6 - 5:6).

A. James quotes the Scripture verse of Proverbs 3:34 for the solution to fleshly anger and then properly exegetes it (James 4:6-10).

1. The Proverbs 3:34 verse translates out in Hebrew “Yahweh stands against the ones who think above (the proud) but gives His grace (unmerited favor) to the afflicted, low ones” (James 4:6).
2. James then uses ten command form words (imperatives) to describe the process for a prideful anger-filled believer’s repentance (submit, resist, come near, wash, purify, grieve, mourn, wail, change, and humble) (James 4:7-10).
3. Notice that James mentions nothing about receiving Christ by faith here as he is writing this to believers. Therefore, he is writing about repentance for believers who have erred from the way of Christ, not justification for unbelievers (similar to I John 1:8 - 2:2).

B. Angry Christians speaking evil of each other bring problems on themselves and the church (James 4:11,12; Lev. 19:16).

1. Christians are not called to be the final judge for unbelievers or believers. Only Yahweh of Hosts, The Ancient of Days, Jesus the Messiah makes those calls (Dan. 7:9-14; Matt. 7:1, 25:31-46; 2 Cor. 5:10; Rev. 19:11-20:15)
2. Christians are called to discern and exercise judgment on believers in the church for the purpose of warning, exhortation, discipline, and hopeful restoration from a church standpoint (Matt. 18:15-20; I Cor. 6:2-5; I Thes. 5:14; I Tim. 5:19,20).

C. Angry believers boast in themselves and humble believers boast in the Lord (James 4:13 - 5:6).

1. Humble believers submit their plans to the Lord’s will and have a spirit of thankfulness rather than bragging (James 4:13-17; I Thes. 5:18).
2. Angry believers are warned by James in the spirit of Zechariah the Prophet (Zech. 14:12-15) that living for material wealth now, not paying your workers on time, living for pleasure, and condemning righteous believers is a short-sighted and miserable way to live (James 5:1-6).
3. By deduction, the opposite of angry believers living this way would be the humble believers. Humble believers live for eternal purposes which gives a higher quality of life now and future eternal reward (Prov. 3:34; Matt. 5:5).

James 3:1-18

2010-03-11T10:05:00.000-08:00

WATCH YOUR MOUTH (or BEING SLOW TO SPEAK)
James 3:1-18
As taught by guest geek, Preston Hancock

I. vs. 1-2 Key Thought: the Goal of Maturity- Teaching?

A. This pursuit of being a teacher was common as the early church began (3:13; 1 Tim. 1:3-7).

B. Being a teacher is based on spiritual gifting (Rom. 12:7), is a role in the church (Eph. 4:11), and comes with a price tag (vs.1- "greater judgment". "krima"- value neutral word, good or bad.)
1. For we all sing (2:10), yet teachers are held to a higher standard because the tongue is extremely difficult to control. There is a direct link between our speech and our "whole body" involvement in sin (James 1:29; 2:12; Prov. 10:19; 13:3; 18:7).

C. Conclusion: Being mature in the faith doesn't necessarily mean being a teacher- it's godliness.

II. vs. 309 Key Thought: The Power Of Speech

A. vs. 3-5 Despite it's small size, the tongue can direct the course of a life (Ecc. 5:2-6; Rom. 16:17-18; 1Pet. 3:10)

B. vs. 6 Not only does the tongue direct a life, it can destroy it and others around (Ps. 55:21; 64:2-6; Prov. 26:23-28).

C. vs. 7-9 The tongue cannot be tamed by man, only by God's Spirit in the believer (Gal. 5:22-23; Tit. 2:11-14).

D. Conclusion: We must direct our speech towards godliness and lean on the power of the Spirit to do so!

III. vs. 10-12 Key Thought: The Source Of Our Troubles With Speech

A. The tongue is a mechanism for expressing the darkness in our hearts (Luke 6:34).

B. In a beliver's life, our speech is often inconsistent, "this should not be" (Matt. 10:18-20; Mk. 12:30-31; 2 Cor. 4:16; James 9-10).

C. Conclusion: We seek to allow the Lord to truly change us on the inside, while watching to see that we don't fight him on the outside!

IV. vs. 13-17 Key Thought: the Goal of Maturity- Godly Wisdom

A. To be a true influencer for Christ, we seek to apply what we teach before we teach it (Ez. 7:10; Prov. 27:2).
1. It is a life to be led in gentleness and humility- a willing submission of strength to the Lord's authority in our lives. Gentleness is the middle ground between stubborn defiance and spineless disengagement.

B. Christians may engage in earthly, fleshly wisdom which is born out of a selfish zeal or a posturing for personal power (Tit. 1:10-11).
1. This "wisdom" comes from holding onto envy and selfish ambition as a motivational force.
a.If you struggle with these feelings, do not brag about your "successes" or "triumphs" nor deny the selfishness of your motivations (the tongue leading in a wrong direction). In doing so you will deny the life-changing truth of the gospel and your growth in Christ will be stunted.
2. This "wisdom" has nothing to do with the Father, and in fact reflects the attitudes of demons. (Phil. 3:19; Tit. 3:9-11).
3. This "wisdom" always results in disorder and disruptions in personal relationships and in congregations (Luke 21:9).

C. The wisdom the Spirit leads us into is free from selfish motivation, being the right words for the moment. These words are conveyed so that your thoughts and feelings are expressed (genuine), yet others are respected (peace-loving, considerate, full of mercy), all options and perspectives are considered (impartial), and the proper order is maintained (submissive).

D. Conclusion: As we submit ourselves to the Spirit, watching our speech and depending on his power to change us, we guard our heart motivations and seek wisdom from above.

EXEGETING JAMES 2:14-26 IN CONTEXT

2010-03-11T10:01:00.000-08:00

EXEGETING JAMES 2:14-26 IN CONTEXT:
SPENDING EXTRA TIME ON A DIFFICULT PASSAGE

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. What has been learned in the letter of James in regards to his audience so far:
Putting James 2:14-26 in context.

A. He refers to them as Christian brothers (James 1:2,9,16,19; 2:1).
B. He refers to them as the Father’s children (James 1:17,27).
C. He refers to them as people who pray because they already have true faith (James 1:3,5-8).
D. He refers to them as having received and able to receive the word of truth (James 1:18,21).
E. He refers to them as believers who can be rewarded at Christ’s judgment seat for loving Christ by obeying Him.

1. We will receive the crown of life for handling trials well (James 1:12).
2. We will receive mercy and favor by our obedience to His word and by doing His righteousness. James calls this being a works-doer (James 1:21,22; 2:13).

Conclusion: James is writing to Christian believers who have already placed their faith in Christ alone for their salvation.

II. What James, the other apostles, and Jesus understood about eternal salvation and being declared righteous (justified) before God.

A. James was a main leader in the Jerusalem church and had a firm grasp of being justified by faith (Acts 15:4-29).
B. Paul taught justification by faith (Rom. 4:1-12; Gal. 2:15,16; Eph. 2:8-10).
C. John taught justification by faith (John 1:12; 20:21), Jesus taught justification by faith (John 3:16), and Peter taught justification by faith (I Pet. 1:3-5).

Conclusion: The message of the New Testament is very consistent regarding justification by faith in Jesus Christ alone as accomplishing a believers standing before God.

III. A believer who has been justified by faith before God needs to learn to do works of faith in order to manifest Christ’s righteousness before men (James 2:14-26).

A. We are in the section of James, which is the main body of the letter, where he is explaining that being “quick to hear” means being obedient to Christ’s words and doing them (James 1:21 - 2:26).
B. James has already given several examples of being a work-doer or working out God’s righteousness in James 1:21 - 2:13. A works-doer includes obeying Christ’s word by controlling ones tongue, providing for those unable to care for themselves, keeping oneself from the false thinking and the lusts of this world, and treating others without bias and partiality.
C. James starts out his argument by pondering the profitability or the benefit of a believer who chooses to live his life out without being this previously described works-doer of James 1:21 - 2:13 (vs 14a).
D. Given the context of the letter, James reiterates the idea that God’s word heard, obeyed, and done is the process of saving (sanctifying) the believers life from the power of sin (James 1:21). A believer who does not live this way will not receive the benefit of the word in this way and will not be a blessing to others (vs 14b-17).
E. Faith without the kind of works coming from obedience to God’s word makes a believer’s mortal life dead, empty, and fruitless concerning his/her walk and witness (vs 17-20).
F. A believer operating with Christ’s Spirit and word should produce life, productivity, and fruitfulness rather than the demonic belief (that does not save) that produces trembling before Christ (vs 17-20).
G. James knew that the Scriptures said that Abraham was justified by faith (Gen. 15:6) just as Paul, Peter, John, and Jesus also knew this (Rom. 4:1-12; I Pet. 2:7; John 1:12; John 3:16).
H. James shows that justification by works is something that can happen after justification by faith through the examples of Abraham and Rahab (vs 21-26).

1. Justification by faith is being declared righteous before God. Justification by works is showing God’s righteousness to other people.
2. His doctrine of justification by works is the same as “working the righteousness of God (James 1:21),” “receiving with meekness the engrafted word which is able to save your lives (souls)(James 1:21),” “being a word-doer (James 1:22),’ and “being blessed in your work (James 1:25).”
3. Abraham and Rahab were already justified before God at the time of their belief before they were justified before other people at the time of their works of righteousness (Gen. 15:6; 22:1-12; Josh. 2:11-16; Heb. 11:31).
4. By justification by faith, we become children of God (Rom. 4:1-12). By James’ phrase of justification by works, we can become friends of God (James 2:23; 2 Chron. 20:7; Isa. 41:8) by understanding and doing what God desires in us (John 15:13-17).

James 1:21 - 2:26 (today through 2:13)

2010-03-11T10:00:00.000-08:00

A BELIEVER WHO IS “QUICK TO HEAR” WILL BE BLESSED
AND BE A BLESSING TO OTHERS
James 1:21 - 2:26 (today through 2:13)

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. James has listed three Christian behaviors or works which specifically will help
believers in their time of trial and temptation in James 1:19,20.

A. We should be “quick to hear.” This includes listening to and obeying God’s
word, confessing our sins, being merciful and loving to others (James 1:21 -2:26).
B. We should be “slow to speak.” This includes taming our tongue, doing humble
works without selfish ambition and learning how to be Christ’s peacemaker
(James 3:1-17).
C. We should be “slow to anger.” This includes giving up worldly ambitions and humbly placing ourselves under Christ’s authority (James 4:1 - 5:6).
D. The outcome of handling our trials well and having victory over temptations is
the privilege and blessing of manifesting our new life in Christ which James calls
“God’s righteousness” (vs 20). John called this “matured love” (I John 2:28-4:19).

Thought: How have you seen these behaviors help you in your time of trial?

II. A believer who learns to hear God’s word on the inside, by obeying, will manifest
God’s righteousness (James 1:21 - 27).

A. Listening on the inside involves laying aside (like clothing) our old filth of the flesh
and worldly wickedness (vs 21) (I Peter 2:1-2).
B. Listening on the inside involves living out our lives from the standpoint of our new
natures and accepting or welcoming God’s word rather than resisting its direction
(vs 21) (I Peter 1:23-25; 2:1-2).
C. Listening on the inside can save your life. This is a Greek phrase which carried the
idea of saving your physical life from death (vs 21) (Mark 3:4; Matt. 16:24-28;
Gen. 19:17 (LXX); Prov. 11:19; James 5:20). For the believer, saving your soul or life involves the process of sanctification (becoming more set apart for Christ by being freed from sins power) and has great benefits now and at Christ’s judgment seat (James 2:13).
D. Listening on the inside involves using our mind attentively and doing Christ’s law
(James 1:22-25; Rom. 6:14; 2 Cor. 3:6; Gal. 6:2).
E. Listening on the inside involves using our words in a Christ-like way, giving mercy and help to the people that have the least but that God cares for the most, and keeping ourselves pure while living in this corrupt world (James 1:26,27).

III. A believer who treats other people with the love of Christ is truly listening on the
inside (James 2:1-13).

A. Our Yahweh Jesus Christ came from glory and treated people without partiality
(vs 1)(Phil. 2:4-10).
B. We need to view outward things like jewelry and clothing as God views them.
People are the items of value! (vs 2-4)
C. Believers that are poor in this worlds goods are many times the richest in faith
and will have great privileges as co-heirs with Christ at His kingdom (vs 5-7;
Rom. 8:17; 2 Tim. 2:12; Rev. 2:26-28).
D. Believers will give an account to Christ at His judgment seat in the future. By
treating others with Christ’s love and manifesting His mercy, we will in turn
receive more of His mercy concerning our life as co-heirs with Him (vs 8-13;
2 Cor. 5:10; I Cor. 3:8-15; I John 4:17,18).

James 1:13-20

2010-03-11T09:59:00.000-08:00

HOW A PERSON SINS WHETHER A BELIEVER OR UNBELIEVER
AND HOW A BELIEVER CAN LIVE OUT TRUE LIFE

James 1:13-20

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Temptation toward evil desires come from ourselves and not from God
(James 1:13-18).

A. The Greek word “peirasmos” can be translated as the English word “trial” or as
the English word “temptation.”

1. The noun form of the word is usually, but not always, the idea of outer
difficulties where “trial” would be used (James 1:3,12).
2. The verb form of the word is usually, but not always, the idea of inner conflicts
that could lead us to sin. The word “temptation” would be used in these places (James 1:13,14).
3. The context of the sentence and paragraph many times give us clues, but it
sometimes takes extra work to figure out which word is best (Matt. 26:41;
Gal. 4:14; Heb. 11:37; Matt. 4:1; Matt. 6:13).

Thought: How are trials and temptations different and how are they the same as you
deal with them in your life?

B. The source of humanities desire to sin and do evil comes from something inside of
them (vs 13-16).

1. Scripture agrees with the Genesis account of the fall of humanity as found in
Genesis 3.
2. The Bible tells us that all humanity is depraved, wicked, and separated from
God’s ways (Ps. 14:1-3; Isa. 1:18, 64:6; Rom. 3:9-20).
3. Through faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ, believers have been given a
new birth and are newly created (Rom. 3:21-28; 2 Cor. 5:16-21).
4. Believers have the possibility to please God by living life in their new nature
under the power of Christ’s Spirit but can still sin. The believer sins by
choosing to follow the ways of sin which Scripturally is called the flesh or not
living according to the truth (Gal. 5:13 - 6:5; I John 1:5 - 2:6).
5. James describes our desire to sin with fishing and hunting metaphors where
prey is being lured out by bait. As Christians, we have certain tendencies in
our flesh which baits us and starts the sin process rolling! (vs 14)
6. The lustful bait will go through a “conceiving” process which will lead us to
sin (missing the mark) and death (broken fellowship, loss of true life for that
time period, unproductivity, loss of reward, possible early physical death)
(I Cor. 3:10-17; Rom. 5:1 - 6:23; James 5:19,20; I John 5:14-17).
C. Our Father of creation is 100% good, giving, and non-sinful (vs 17,18).

1. God’s creation in the heavens of stars, planets, and moons cast differing
shadows that can distort light, but God is above His creation.
2. Sin also is a distortion of the light or truth of God’s creation, but God, by His
word of truth, has redeemed His people to be a first fruit of a new creation.
3. The first fruit of the harvest in the Old Testament (Ex. 34:22; Lev. 23:10) was
the first pickings of the new crop dedicated to Yahweh. It was the promise
of the harvest and participation in Yahweh’s blessings to come.

II. As believers live out their new lives here on earth, they should learn to be “quick to
hear,” “slow to speak,” and “slow to anger,” which is also how James structures the
rest of his letter (James 1:19,20, 1:21-2:26, 3:1-18, 4:1-5:12).

James 1:1-12

2010-03-11T09:58:00.000-08:00

INTRODUCTION AND
HOW A BELIEVER RECEIVES A HIGHER QUALITY OF LIFE
James 1:1-12

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. An introduction to the letter of James.

A. The author is James, the half-brother of Jesus Christ.

1. It was not James, the son of Zebedee, the apostle, the brother of John
(Matt. 4:18-22; Matt. 17:1-3). He was martyred in 44 A.D. which was too
early to have written this (Acts 12:1,2).
2. It was one of Jesus’ half-brothers who became the leading elder of the church
at Jerusalem (Mark 6:3; I Cor. 15:7; Gal. 2:12; Acts 15:13; Acts 21:17-25).
a. James had authority to make major decisions in his office in Jerusalem and
his speeches in Acts 15 and Acts 21 reveal this.
b. The letter of James uses similar Jewish and Old Testament phrasings and
quotes as the Acts passages. It also is written very authoritatively by using
46 imperatives or command-tenses.
c. Early church history confirms the description of “James the Just,” the half-
brother of Christ as the author (Hegisuppus, Eusebius, and others).
d. He was martyred according to Josephus in 62 A.D.

B. The letter was most likely written between 45 and 50 A.D.

1. This fits the persecution of Christians from the Jews and Roman Empire time
period (Acts 8:1-3; 12:1,2), and their Jerusalem church leader’s heart to
encourage the dispersed Jewish Christians (James 1:1).
2. This fits the Jewishness of the teachings from Old Testament writings
(ie. Proverbs, Isaiah) and Christ’s teachings (Sermon on the Mount).
3. This fits a simpler early church leadership of teachers (James 3:1) and elders
(James 5:14).
4. This fits a lack of discussion of Jewish legalizers which the Apostle Paul dealt
with after 50 A.D. (see Galatians, Acts 15 and 21).

C. The purpose and canonicity of the letter of James.

1. It was written to instruct, comfort, and encourage dispersed Jewish Christians
who had to leave Jerusalem because of Roman persecution (Acts 7:59 - 8:3;
Acts 12:2; James 1:1).
2. It was one of the letters that was scrutinized for two to three hundred years of
church history as whether it should be included in the New Testament Canon of
Scripture. The Church Council of Carthage finally settled the issue in 397 A.D.

II. How a believer receives a higher quality of life (James 1:1-12).

A. The writer of this letter identifies himself as a servant or slave (“doulos”) of God
and Yahweh Jesus the Christ (Messiah). He writes to the scattered, persecuted
Jewish Christians (James 1:1).

Thought: How does knowing that you are owned and directed by the God and Savior
of the universe help you?

B. Christians are instructed to look at trials and tests in a wise and scripturally
knowledgeable way (James 1:2-12).

1. Believers should look at the trial, which is something that tests how mature our
faith has become, as a source of joy and discipleship (James 1:2-4).
a. Through the trial we can grow up in our faith (vs 4; I John 4:12-18).
b. Through the trial, as we trust in God, we learn how to endure (“abide
under”)(vs 4).
c. Through the trial we can get out of our non-abiding state (not lacking
abiding)(vs 4).
2. Believers should realize that they are not in the trial alone (James 1:5-8).
a. God will supply for them His wisdom if they will ask in faith (vs 5,6;
I John 3:20-23; I John 5:14,15).
b. God desires to be with you in your trials in a generous and non-rebuking
way if you will believe. Don’t be a wavering, double thinking God
doubter! (vs 7,8; Heb. 13:5,6).
3. Believers should realize that this world’s trials can yield eternal reward
(James 1:9-12).
a. A Christian’s mortal life, whether with material wealth or material poverty,
is short compared to eternity. We need proper perspective (vs 9-11;
Isaiah 40:6-8).
b. The reward for enduring trial in faithful trust is not only a matured faith in
this life but eternal reward in the next life called the crown of life (vs 12;
I Cor. 9:25; I Thes. 2:19; 2 Tim. 4:8; I Peter 5:4).

Oopsy!

2010-03-11T09:54:00.001-08:00

Hey Folks,

I wanted to send out a BIG apology to you all. I only now realized that in January I started posting Dave's notes for the book of 1 John... for the second time! (I posted them the first time in 2009.)

Sorry!

I'm going to try and compensate by immediately posting all of the notes for the book of James.

Thanks for your patience!

-Paeter (blog admin)

Daniel 11:36 – 12:13

2009-12-17T09:28:00.000-08:00

YAHWEH’S PROPHETIC DETAILS FOR HIS PEOPLE ISRAEL

ARE FOUND IN DANIEL CHAPTERS 8-12

Part 7: Events Prophesied About the Antichrist, Israel’s

Tribulation Period, Israel’s Deliverance, The Resurrection of the

Just and Unjust and the Inheritance of the Saints

Daniel 11:36 – 12:13

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. At the “time of the end” a future king will arise who will extensively conquer the area around Israel , exalt himself at the peril of any who oppose him, and be in the center of the great “end time” war centered in Israel . However, Yahweh’s ultimate plan is to destroy this king who appears to be the New Testament antichrist (Daniel 11:36 -45).

A. There seems to be a switch that happens in verse 36 to a different person other than Antiochus IV Epiphanes who has some of the same characteristics as this king and yet many differences. We discussed some of these in the last teaching. Many times prophetic writing moves directly into new events with only contextual and scripturally discerned clues to help (look at Isaiah 61:1,2 as it compares with where Jesus stopped reading in Luke 4:18 ,19).

B. Some of the king’s (antichrist’s) traits and values (verses 36-39).

1. The king has great authority and power to do as he pleases. Future Scripture explains the source of his power in the ten king coalition and Satan himself (verse 36a; Rev. 16:12-14, 17:12 , 13).

2. The king is a blasphemer of Yahweh and an exalter of himself (verses 36b- 37; Dan. 7:25 ; 2 Thes. 2:1-4; Rev. 13:14-16; 14:9-12).

a. Even though Antiochus IV blasphemed Yahweh and hated the Jews, he never placed an image of himself to be worshipped but that of the Greek god Zeus.

b. The “one desired by women” who the king has no regard for is probably either a special cult worship practiced by women such as the old Tammuz or Adonis worship (Ezek. 8:14 ) or every Jewish woman’s desire to be the mother of the Messiah (Luke 1:42 ). If the last one is correct, the antichrist would have no regard for the worship involving the true Christ!

3. The king sets aside everything belonging to his religious heritage (some type of worship from the revived Roman world) and worships a foreign god of fortresses (possibly producing military strength derived from Satan) (verses 38, 39; Rev. 13:3-8).

C. The last great world war involving the antichrist king before the coming of the true Christ King to rule Israel and this earth (verses 40-45).

1. This military activity of this antichrist king seems to line up with the last seven year tribulation period prophesied for Israel (Daniel 9:26b-27). It further is narrowed down to the last 3 ½ year period called the “great tribulation” for Israel (Daniel 12:1, 7; Matt. 24:15-25). It seems to finish at the end of this 3 ½ years concluding with the final battle of the kings and the antichrist against the true Messiah at Armegeddon (Har-Megiddo) in Israel (Zech. 14:1-5; Rev. 16:14-16; 17:12 -14; 19:17 -21).

2. The antichrist king engages in battle with a king from the South ( Egypt ) and a king from the North (possibly Russia , Ezek. 38:11-15) who’s military is well equipped (verse 40a). However, the antichrist king seems to be able to pass through and conquer them easily (verse 40b).

3. During the antichrist king’s military campaigns, he easily conquers many nations and countries including Israel (the Beautiful Land ). However, the area of modern day Jordon ( Edom , Moab , Ammon) he does not conquer for some reason (verse 41).

4. He conquers all of Egypt along with their Arab allies the Libyans and Nubians gaining total control of their wealth. By this time the antichrist king appears to be very powerful (verses 42, 43)

5. At the height of his power, the antichrist king hears disturbing reports of an Eastern military (possibly the 200 million army of Rev. 9:16) and a Northern military (possibly a powerfully reassembled Russian army, Ezek. 38:14-16) and sets out to destroy them with rage (verse 44).

6. The antichrist king chooses for his base of operations the land of Israel and probably Jerusalem (the beautiful holy mountain) itself. However, Yahweh Jesus the true Christ (Messiah) at the appointed time comes to rescue Israel, put an end to this false reign, and establish true righteousness (verse 45; Zech. 14:4-19; Matt. 25:31-34; Rev. 19:11-20:6).

II. Israel ’s prophesied deliverance and the bodily resurrection of the righteous Yahweh believers (who have been written in His book) as well as the unrighteous non-believers (Daniel 12:1-3).

A. The arch angel Michael (who we saw in Daniel 10:21 and we see again in Jude 9) seems to have a particular job assignment of protecting the remnant people and nation of Israel (verse 1a). During this time of the nations great distress or tribulation (verse 1b; Matt. 24:21), he accomplishes his final assignment of helping to deliver every one written in Yahweh Jesus’ book (verse 1c; Zech. 12:10 -13:1; Rev. 13:8, 17:8, 20:12 ).

B. One of the clearest verses for the bodily resurrection from the dead for the whole human race is found in Daniel 12:2 (see also Job 19:26 ; Psalms 17:15 , 73:23, 24; Isa. 25:8, 26:19). There seemed to be special reward for those who walked and served Yahweh in a wise, intelligent way (verse 3).

1. There has seemed to be further revelation of several resurrections in Scripture as time went on such as: 1) the resurrection of Christ bodily and the righteous spirits with Him (I Cor. 15:23 ; Phil. 1:23), 2) the bodily resurrection of the saints at Christ’s second coming (I Cor. 15:23; I Thes. 5:13 -18), 3) the bodily resurrection of the tribulation saints (Rev. 20:5), 4) the bodily resurrection of non-believers (Rev. 20:11-13).

2. There is a special reward given for those who have walked with and served Yahweh in a wise and intelligent way which leads others in the way of righteousness (verse 3; Matt. 20:27 -30; I Cor. 3:8-15; Rev. 22:12).

Thought: Praise Yahweh for His protection and plan. Praise Him for including you and dedicate yourself to His kingdom purposes.

III. Daniel is told to seal up the scroll so that it can be studied by others and two questions are asked (Daniel 12:4-13).

A. In Daniel’s time, important documents would be copied off the original document but the original was “closed up” (put in a secure place) and sealed (with wax). The original then could be consulted at a later date to make sure the copies were true. It was to be preserved until the “time of the end.” The ability to understand this revelation would increase over time (verse 4).

B. One of the angels asked the man dressed in linen (Daniel 10:5) how long the astonishing things (probably of Daniel 11:36 -12:1) will take to be completed or fulfilled? (verses 5-7; I. Peter 1:12)

1. With holy hands raised toward the heavens the man tells the inquiring angel that it would be 3 ½ years (verses 5-7b; Daniel 7:25 , 9:27 ; Rev. 12:6).

2. When the Jews have reached rock bottom and are powerless is when their once rejected Messiah returns to save them (verse 7c; Zech. 14:1-3; Rev. 17:12-15).

C. Daniel then asks his final question about the outcome of these events for Israel and himself (verses 8-13).

1. He was basically told that many in Israel will believe and grow in righteous perseverance through the years and was given the assurance of a constant remnant (verses 8-10).

2. He was given two times to record for other Bible students of 30 days before the 3 ½ years and 45 days after the 3 ½ years (verses 11, 12).

a. For the wise believers during this time they would have a 30 day advance warning before the great distress or great tribulation starts (verse 11).

b. For the wise believers who have lived through the full tribulation, there is 45 days after the antichrist’s end until the full Millennial blessings begin (verse 12).

3. Daniel himself is told that we will have continued blessing in this life, and rest, bodily resurrection and kingdom reward in the next (verse 13).

May Yahweh, the Ancient of Days and our Son of God who will come and do exactly as He has promised, bless you all!

Daniel 11:21-45

2009-12-10T08:00:00.000-08:00

YAHWEH’S PROPHETIC DETAILS FOR HIS PEOPLE ISRAEL
ARE FOUND IN DANIEL CHAPTERS 8-12

Part 6: Events Prophesied and Battles Over the Land of Israel During Antiochus IV Epiphanes and the Antichrist Who Comes During Daniel’s 70th Week or the Time of the End.

Daniel 11:21-45
As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. The Grecian King Antiochus IV Epiphanes (175-163 B.C.) causes specific problems and distressful times for the Jewish people (Daniel 11:21 -35).

A. The prophesied “contemptible person” or “despicable person” of verse 21 comes perfectly in Grecian history (given in Daniel 11:3-20 previously) as Antiochus IV Epiphanes (175-163 B.C.). He followed his brother Seleucus IV (187-176 B.C.) as one of the kings from the north of Israel who have been in control of the land of Palestine or Israel since around 200 B.C.

1. Antiochus IV was not in the line of royalty because his brother Seleucus IV had a son named Demetrious Soter who should have been the rightful ruler after Seleucus IV was assassinated by poisoning. However, Demetrious was still a hostage of Rome (as part of the 20 hostages sent by Antiochus III being conquered). Antiochus IV was supposed to be prince regent until Seleucus IV release but promised the government officials favors and bribes to allow him to remain as king (verse 21).

2. The book of Daniel has prophesied previously about this man in Daniel
8:9-14 specifically and then probably partially about this man and partially about the end time antichrist in Daniel 8:17 -26 (“time of the end” Daniel 8:17 , “later in the time of wrath” Daniel 8:19 , “the distant future” Daniel 8:26). Therefore, Daniel chapter 8 seems to start a correlation between Antiochus IV Epiphanes and the end time antichrist which becomes fully substantiated in Daniel chapter 11 (if the texts are exegeted literally, grammatically, and contextually).

B. He was a person who used deceit to his advantage. He would befriend people and nations offering them peace and then seek to destroy them by catching them off guard (verses 22-35).

1. The empowerment of Antiochus IV Epiphanes (north) and the battles against Egypt (verses 22 -30).

a. Verse 22 lays out in summary form the two important events describing Antiochus IV: 1) The defeating (for a time) of the Egyptian army, and 2) The destruction (for a time) of the Jewish High Priesthood. Ptolemy VI (181-145 B.C., south) waged a great war to try to take back Palestine ( Israel ) but was defeated and captured in 170 B.C. by Antiochus IV (north). About this same time, the Jewish High Priest office “the prince of the covenant” was corrupted due to bribery offered to Antiochus IV. This produced the ousting and killing of the rightful High Priest Onias III in 171 B.C.

b. Verses 23 and 24 lays out Antiochus IV mode of operation. He would deceitfully come to an agreement with Ptolemy VI and end up returning to his own country with great wealth to be distributed to buy future favors. In the process he will attain a limited success against the stronghold of Egypt .

c. Verses 25-30 give us Antiochus IV two campaigns against Egypt , his personal frustration of not accomplishing all of his goals and his growing hatred toward the Jewish people.

1. The first campaign of 170 B.C. against Egypt is found in verses 25-28. As Ptolemy VI (south) came up to try and conquer back Palestine (Israel), Antiochus IV (north) came against this large Egyptian army but the army and counselors of the Egyptian army betrayed their king (verses 25, 26). Antiochus IV and Ptolemy VI ended up striking an agreement, giving Antiochus IV great wealth and other political concessions but both kings had deceit in their hearts (verse 27). On his way back to Syria , Antiochus IV and his army desecrated the temple by looting it and killing many Jews (verse 28).

2. The second campaign of 168 B.C. against Egypt is found in verses 29 and 30. Antiochus IV took his large army retracing the territories he conquered in Egypt because of a revolt on the part of Egypt to their agreement. His intent was to take Egypt over completely on this campaign but Roman warships sailed from the island of Cyprus and met Antiochus IV in Alexandria . They informed him that if he didn’t turn back that they would consider this an act of war against Rome (verses 29, 30a). He and his army turned back but he decided to really vent his fury on the people of Israel this time and reward any Jew who would forsake their God in favor of worshipping the Greek god Zeus (verse 30b, c).

C. The three-plus years of extreme trouble which Antioch IV Epiphanes caused for the Jews in Israel during 167-164 B.C. (verses 31-35).

1. On December 16, 167 B.C. an alter to the Greek god Zeus was placed on the altar of burnt offering at the Hebrew temple and a pig was sacrificed on it. They were supposed to do this on the 25th of every month in honor of Antiochus IV birthday or risk death (verse 31).

2. The Jews who violated the covenant of Yahweh received special favors and privileges but a remnant resisted. A priest named Mattathias and his five sons formed a movement of resistance that became know as the Maccabean “hammer” revolt (verse 32).

3. According to the historical record over a hundred thousand Jews lost their lives during this time but it lasted a predetermined time of a little over three years (verses 33-35, I and II Maccabees, Josephus chapter 16).
Thought: Yahweh has faithfully chosen His servants to write down prophecy years, centuries, and millennia in advance. He did this so that we can be informed as to what He is doing and allowing. As we meditate on the Scriptures, we grow, are more informed, strengthened, and comforted in the process. Praise Yah! (I Timothy 3:13-16; II Tim. 3:14-16)

III. The future end time Antichrist who rises to power during Daniel’s 70th week and brings great distress to Israel for a predetermined span of 3.5 years (Dan. 11:36 -45).

A. There seems to be a switch that happens in verse 36 to a different person other than Antiochus IV Epiphanes who has some of the same characteristics but yet many differences.

1. The king is going to be attacked by a future king of the south and north (verse 40). Antiochus IV was the king of the north and was not attacked by another king of the north.

2. This king is either a self-worshipping egomaniac or/and an atheist (verses 36 and 37). Antiochus IV was a Zeus, Jupiter, and Greek god worshipper.

3. The amount of countries and extent of control this king has is much greater than Antiochus IV (verses 40-43).

4. This king seems to be in Israel between the Mediterranean Sea and the Dead Sea at the time of a great battle and what appears to be his demise (verses 44, 45). Antiochus IV died insane in Persia in 163 B.C.

5. Right after the events of this king, the righteous are resurrected to inherit Daniel’s 5th and final kingdom. This kingdom is the everlasting kingdom of the Son of God, Yahweh Jesus, who will rule this earth and then the New Heaven and New Earth (Daniel 12:1-3, 11-13, 2:45, 4:34, 7:26,27, 9:24; Rev. 19:11-22:6). The death of Antiochus IV didn’t bring any of these things.

Daniel 11:1-20

2009-12-03T15:42:00.000-08:00

YAHWEH’S PROPHETIC DETAILS FOR HIS PEOPLE ISRAEL

ARE FOUND IN DANIEL CHAPTERS 8-12

PART 5: EVENTS PROPHESIED AND BATTLES OVER THE

LAND OF ISRAEL DURING THE KINGDOMS OF

MEDO-PERSIA AND GREECE UP TO

ANTIOCHUS IV EPIPHANES

Daniel 11:1-20

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. The spiritual and physical battles over the land of Israel during the years of about 538 B.C. to about 323 B.C. (Daniel 11:1-4).

A. There are spiritual battles carried out by angelic spiritual beings over the kingdom plans of Yahweh concerning Israel ’s future (verse 1).

1. The angelic messenger of Daniel 10:4-21, possibly Gabriel, explains that a battle was going on in heaven for the things that were happening in the land of Israel against an anti-Yahweh angel heading the nation of Persia .

2. This Yahweh angelic messenger either strengthened Darius the Mede (539- 538 B.C.) the assigned ruler of Medo-Persia, the arch angel Michael in his spiritual battle, or both.

B. The Medo-Persian Empire ruled from 539-331 B.C. with 11 or 12 kings. However, after the first four kings, Greece gained significant victories and progressively grew stronger (verse 3).

1. The four kings after King Cyrus (559-530 B.C.) were Cambyses (530-522 B.C.), Pseudo-Smerdis (522-521 B.C.), Darius I (521-486 B.C.), and Xerxes I (486-465 B.C.).

2. Xerxes I is also known as Ahasuerus, the king found in the book of Esther.

During his reign the kingdom became extremely rich due to its expansion and empire building. After reducing Athens to ashes with his million man army, Xerxes navy was defeated in an embarrassing fashion by the Greek navy and forced to retreat back to Asia . Yahweh sovereignly delivered His Jewish people from vile Haman, during Xerxes I reign through Esther and Mordecai (Esther 3:13 ; 7:3-6; 8:11 -16).

C. The kingdom of Greece ruled from 331 B.C. to approximately 168 B.C. It was conquered by Alexander the Great in under three years from 333-331 B.C. (verse 3). However, in 323 B.C. he died without children and four of his generals battled it out and claimed their right to rule the kingdom of Greece :

1) Cassander- Massedonia and Greece ; 2) Lysimachus-Thrace and Bithynia ;

3) Ptolemy-Egypt and Palestine ; and 4) Seleucus-Phrygia to the Indus River (verse 4, also previously discussed in Daniel 7:6; 8:5-8).

Thought: Yahweh is faithful in protecting His people through the ages and giving them prophesy in advance through His prophets and eventually His New Testament apostles. Hallelu-Yah!

II. The spiritual and physical battles over the land of Israel during the years of about 323 B.C. to about 175 B.C. (Daniel 11:5-20).

A. The king of the south (Egypt etc.) is the line of rulers in Greece under Ptolemy and the king of the north (Syria etc.) are the line of rulers under Seleucus in reference to the land of Israel (the Beautiful Land of verse 16).

B. Daniel 11:5-20 gives the reader of Scripture a prophesied partial history of the Ptolemaic and Seleucid kings, the Seleucid control of Palestine ( Israel ) leading up to the “contemptible” Seleucid king of Antiochus IV Epiphanes which will start at verse 21.

1. Palestine ( Israel ) was originally under Ptolemaic control but was a battled over area. Ptolemy I (south) 323-285 B.C. became strong but Seleucis I who was originally a commander in his army ended up becoming the main commander and eventual king of the north in Syria and Phoenicia in 310 B.C. (verse 5). After years of warring, Antiochus II (262-246 B.C north) married Berenice the daughter of Ptolemy II (285-246 B.C. south). However, Antiochus II had already had a wife Laodice whom he divorced and exiled. She was able to successfully have Berenice assassinated and Antiochus II poisoned and took over power as Queen Regent until her son Seleucus II could reign (verse 7). Ptolemy III (246-221 B.C., south) avenged his sisters death with a war that pillaged the northern capital city Antioch (verses 7, 8). Seleucus II (246-227 B.C., north) fought back and regained control of Syria and Phoenicia around 230 B.C. but was unsuccessful in Egypt (verse 9). His sons Seleucus III (227-223 B.C. north) expanded the kingdom in Asia Minor before being killed on a military campaign and Antiochus III (223-187 B.C. north) gained total control of the land of Palestine (Israel) forcing the southern forces to the southern border of Palestine (Israel) (verse 10). Then Ptolemy IV (221-204 B.C. south) initially held off Antiochus III larger army killing thousands. However, when an even larger army returned after Ptolemy IV died, a young

Ptolemy V (204-181 B.C. south) was defeated all the way down to the fortress of Gaza in 201 B.C. (verses 11-13). Philip V of Macedonia , pro- Seleucid Jews (zealots), and Antiochus III were all against Egypt at this time. In this revelation and vision, Daniel wrote to worn the Jews not to align themselves but without success because they did not put these words into practice (verse 14). The fortified city is probably Sidon in 203 B.C. (verse15).

2. In 199 B.C., the Seleucids (north kingdom) controlled the Beautiful Land ( Israel ) (verse 16).

3. Antiochus III the Great desired to unite the kingdom of Greece under his authority and bring back the glory of the original Alexander the Great’s kingdom but failed to do so (verses 17-20).

a. He gave his daughter (Cleopatra) in marriage to the young 12 year old ruler Ptolemy V (204-181 B.C.south) in Egypt . He did this in hopes of them having a son to unite the Ptolemaic and Seleucid empires. However, Cleopatra ended up becoming completely sympathetic with her husband. Antiochus III died in 187 B.C., her husband died in 181 B.C., and she became the queen regent when her son Ptolemy VI (181 – 145 B.C., south) took over (verse 17).

b. He then started trying to conquer Pergamum and Rhodes which were part of the Roman kingdom. After going into a battle at Magnesia with 70,000 troops against 30,000 Roman troops and being defeated, he was forced to sign the Treaty of Apamea in 188 B.C. In the treaty, he had to surrender any of his claims to Europe and most of Asia Minor, the entire elephant brigade, all his navy, twenty selected hostages (which included his second son Antiochus IV), and a large yearly payment to Rome. He returned to his own country where he died a year later (188 B.C.) (verses 18, 19).

c. Antiochus III oldest son became king by the name of Seleucus IV (187 – 176 B.C. north). He sent out a special fund raiser named Heliodorus to collect funds to continue to pay the Roman treaty bills and run his kingdom. There is a report that Heliodorus was going to rob the Jerusalem temple and plunder it but had a vision of mighty angels flogging him and so he did not do this (2 Maccabees 3:7-40).

Seleucus IV was poisoned by Heliodorus in 176 B.C. and died.

Thought: As New Testament believers, what Scriptural revelation has been spoken into our lives that we are not obeying or not fully applying to our daily experiences?

Look at what Jesus said about this in Matthew 7:24-27.

Daniel 10:1-21

2009-11-19T07:46:00.000-08:00

YAHWEH’S PROPHETIC DETAILS FOR HIS PEOPLE ISRAEL ARE FOUND IN DANIEL CHAPTERS 8-12

PART 4: PREPARATION FOR THE FINAL VISION

Daniel 10:1-21
As taught by "guest geek" Keith Braun

Introduction

All the remaining verses in the book of Daniel concern the final vision. Chapter 10 is the preparation for the vision, chapter 11 contains the content of the vision, and chapter 12 relates some final instructions to Daniel as they pertain to the vision. Chapter 10 is rather eerie. The veil of the spiritual world is lifted for a moment and we get a glimpse into this unseen world. It is an intensely emotional chapter as we see our man Daniel first in mourning and then we try to picture in our minds what things might scare him half to death. We see Yahweh’s behind-the-scenes lovingkindness and protection toward His people Israel.

Daniel Sings the Blues (1-4)

The historical timing of the events of this chapter is clearly stated. It occurs during the third year of Cyrus, king of Persia. Verse 4 narrows it down even more precisely to the 24th day of the first month (Nisan). The year is 536 BC and Daniel would be about 85 years old. The decree from Cyrus to allow the Jewish exiles to return to Jerusalem was given a couple of years before. There were a modest number of Jews led by Zerubbabel in Jerusalem just beginning to build a new, but not so grand, temple. It was a time when Israel was becoming discouraged. Haggai and Zechariah were written a few years later to bring comfort and to encourage the people. Daniel’s location is on the bank of the Tigris River.

Turn to Leviticus 23:4-7.
What important Jewish feasts had just taken place? Why would the anniversaries of these feasts be difficult times for the Jews living in exile? What are some anniversaries in your life that might trigger mourning?

Turn to Proverbs 13:12.
How might this verse describe the heart of Daniel as we see it revealed in verses 2 and 3?

Daniel is Speechless (5-11)

The vision we see here is a new form of revelation for Daniel. No longer does he see images, beasts or weeks of years. Here he sees a certain man.

Read Ezekiel 1:25-28.
Who is being described here in such awesome terms?

Turn to Revelation 1:12-18.
How is John’s vision of deity similar to what Daniel saw? Who else saw this vision but Daniel? Where did the others go? Who had a meeting with Jesus when a similar thing happened to his companions (Acts 22:9)?

What Daniel sees is most likely Yahweh Jesus. He had seen Him before in the courtroom scene in chapter 7 as the Ancient of Days, though probably with His glory veiled somewhat. In this appearance here in chapter 10 He is revealed in a fuller glory similar to the vision to the apostle John on the Isle of Patmos in Revelation 1. John, who had spent quality time with Jesus for years, nearly died from that vision of Jesus in all His glory. This Old Testament appearance in Daniel is called a theophany- a preincarnate appearance of the eternal Son.

In verse 8, Daniel says, “my natural color turned into a deathly pallor.” Literally, the phrase is, “my splendor (or comeliness) has turned into corruption.” Daniel was one of the most godly men who ever lived, yet when he truly saw the LORD, the last thing he was thinking about was his own righteousness (Isaiah 64:6). What was Peter’s response to Jesus after his nets were miraculously filled with fish? (See Luke 5:8.)

Look carefully at verses 10-11. Do you think there may be another personage now involved? Look at verse 11 as it says, “I have now been sent to you.” Do you think God Himself would have been sent by anyone to comfort Daniel? This personage is probably an angel who is introducing himself to the scene at this point. The angel is unnamed but it may have been Gabriel, who had appeared to Daniel previously. In Daniel 9:23, Gabriel referred to Daniel as, “highly esteemed.” It literally means desirable, or precious, and the chapter 10 angel uses the same term twice (verse 12 and 19).

Setting Your Heart (12-14)

I love verse 12-
Then he said to me, “Do not be afraid, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart on understanding this and on humbling yourself before God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to your words.”

I am reminded not to let overwhelming fear prevent me from responding to God. Proverbs 2:3-5 dovetails well with this thought. I am also told to lay pride aside as I come before the LORD. Some years ago, I wrote this prayer in the margin of my Bible next to this verse- “Every day, set your heart, Keith, to humble yourself before God.” C.S. Lewis said, “Pride leads to every other vice, it is the complete anti-God state of mind.” Finally, I am assured that God hears my prayers and He responds to them.

Daniel had been fasting and mourning for three weeks (verse 3). The angel said that from the time Daniel began to pray, he was held up three weeks by the prince of the kingdom of Persia. Apparently, there are ranks of evil angels, or demons, and that they have been assigned to earthly kingdoms. Daniel was in Persia at this time and Satan did not want the contents of the vision in chapter 11 to be revealed to him. The angel Michael had to come to help out. So pay attention next week as Dave teaches from chapter 11 where Daniel is shown how God, during the inter-testament period, is going to give Israel (and us) a living illustration of what will happen in the end times.

Who is the angel Michael? According to Jude 9, what is his rank? His name means, “Who is like God”, reminding us that even the boss angel is not God. Michael can also be considered to be the prince of Israel (verse 21, and chapter 12:1).

Sometimes it is easy to forget the supernatural elements of our lives. Satan has used this strategy in the USA to cause people to disbelieve in anything but what they see, taste, hear, and feel- including God. Others see the devil behind every bush and attribute all sorts of things to Satan or demons, even when they have nothing to do with it. Look at Ephesians 6:11-12 to be reminded that there is another reality out there and that it is in conflict.

Verse 14 reminds us that the revelation that follows in chapter 11 pertains to the latter days, a term used for the times preceding the second coming of Jesus Christ. This verse is a key to the interpretation of what follows in chapter 11. Note that it says, “what will happen to your people”, meaning Israel. These are not words to the church.

Daniel is Bonked Again (15-21)

Daniel is an old man. He just saw a glimpse of Christ in His glory. He has been conversing with an angel. He has seen the behind-the-scenes conflict in the spiritual realm and now he is about to hear the final chapter of the book as it pertains to God’s dealings with his beloved Israel. It is no wonder that he is sapped of all strength.
The angel strengthened him once again and he was ready for the angel to speak the vision. Again Daniel is reminded of the evil angel over Persia and is told that there is one over Greece as well. Despite the Satanic opposition Daniel will be told what is inscribed in the, “writing of truth.” This probably refers to the heavenly record of what God has ordained to come to pass. Apparently this angel (Gabriel?) and Michael alone are given the task of protecting Israel against the powers of Satan and his world system.

So hold on to your hats for next week’s prophecy. I can think of no other prophetic section that has a preparatory chapter and a wind-down chapter like Daniel 11. Satan did not want Daniel to receive and record this message. If both God and Satan give a particular section such emphasis, we dare not gloss over it or count it as irrelevant.

Daniel 9:1-19

2009-11-16T14:09:00.000-08:00

YAHWEH’S PROPHETIC DETAILS FOR HIS PEOPLE ISRAEL ARE FOUND IN DANIEL CHAPTERS 8 – 12

PART 2: DANIEL’S PRAYER FOR ISRAEL AND JERUSALEM’S RESTORATION

Daniel 9:1-19
As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. The historical background of Daniel’s prayer (Daniel 9:1-3).

A. Daniel was a man of history (verse 1).

1. As previously taught in Daniel 5:30; 6:1, and 6:28, Darius the Mede was probably King Cyrus’ appointed ruler in Babylon while King Cyrus continued conquering territory for the Medo-Persian kingdom. Babylon was conquered in 539 B.C., therefore, the first year of Darius the Mede would have been 539-538 B.C.

2. At this time, Daniel had been in exile for 66-67 years (since 605 B.C.) and was about 80 years old.

B. Daniel was a man of the Scriptures (verse 2).

1. Evidently Daniel regularly spent time with the “books” of Scripture. One of the books he read out of was the prophet Jeremiah. When Daniel was taken into Babylonian exile, Jeremiah remained in Jerusalem and did his main writing and prophesying between 627 – 586 B.C. Daniel read in Jeremiah 25:11-13 and 29:10 about the 70 year prophesied Jerusalem desolation.

2. Having been in Babylonian exile himself for 66-67 years and having seen Babylon conquered by Medo-Persia, he is led to pray to Yahweh for the fulfillment of this Scripture.

3. This is the first time that the name Yahweh is used in the book of Daniel. It is the personal name of Israel ’s God (Ex. 3:14 , 15). He is the great “I Am” covenant-keeping, only God of the Universe!

C. Daniel was a man of prayer (verse 3).

1. Daniel meditated in a prayerful manner on Jeremiah and the Mosaic Covenant (verses 11, 13) as given to Israel (Deut. 28:25, 36, 47-50; 29:1, 18, 25-29; 30:1-6).

2. He is then led to pray with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes which are signs of deep need and repentance (Gen. 37:34; Isa. 58:5; Jer. 49:3; Matt. 11:21 ).

Thought: As New Covenant believers, we are called now (as people of history) to apply ourselves to the Scriptures and to prayer also. How intensely are we applying ourselves to these things? Let’s commit ourselves to doing better by giving more time and energy to these things.

II. Daniel prays a prayer of confession and petition to Yahweh his God (Dan. 9:4-19).

A. Daniel’s prayer of confession and repentance (Dan. 9:4-14).

1. In confession, the prayer throws or casts his/her words toward Yahweh, says the same things as Yahweh, and agrees with Yahweh. In repentance, there is an aspect of turning from thinking and doing wrong to thinking and doing right.

2. Yahweh is the universes rightful ruler (Adonai), and is the only great and awesome God who keeps His covenant of love perfectly. It’s good to start prayer with adoration! (vs 4; Deut. 4:25 -31; Rom. 11:33 -36; Eph. 1:3-23).

3. Daniel and Israel have sinned “Hebrew-missed the mark or goal,” done wrong, been wicked, rebelled, and turned away. In confession, it’s best to be brutally honest! (verses 5, 6) (Jer. 25:2-7; I John 1:9).

4. For Israel, disobedience to Yahweh’s directions brought shame, discipline, and ultimately having to be removed from their promised land according to the Law of Moses (verses 7-14; Deut. 4:25-31; chapters 28-30; Jer. 25:2-7).

5. For New Testament believers, disobedience to Christ’s direction (Yahweh Jesus) brings shame, discipline, and sometimes early physical death (I Cor. 9:21 , 11:28 -32; Heb. 12:5-17; James 5:13-20).

B. Daniel’s prayer of petition (from the Hebrew word “chanan” show favor, be gracious) (Daniel 9:15 -19).

1. Before making the actual words of his petition, Daniel acknowledges Yahweh’s power and ability to work miracles (He brought Israel out of Egypt ), Israel ’s sin, and Yahweh’s righteousness in all of His ways
(verses 15, 16a).

2. His petition (the thing he is asking for in a sincere and truthful way) is found in verses 16b–19.

a. Daniel asks that Adonai (Yahweh) restores His city, Jerusalem , for His names sake. In other words, the restoration of Jerusalem would glorify Yahweh’s name (verses 16b–19, Jer. 31:38-40; Joel 2:1, 3:17 ;
Zeph. 3:11 ).

b. Daniel asks Adonai (Yahweh) to restore the Jerusalem temple for His names sake (verse 17).

c. Daniel asks Adonai (Yahweh) to have mercy and once again look with favor on His people Israel because they bear His name (verses 16b–19; Gen. 32:28).

Thought: As Daniel has prayed specifically for Jerusalem, the temple, and the people of Israel, Yahweh is going to answer his requests and then give him more information for all time about these things in Daniel 9:20-27. How are we doing with petitioning in a way which brings Yahweh glory?

Daniel 8:1-27

2009-11-05T08:02:00.000-08:00

YAHWEH’S PROPHETIC DETAILS FOR HIS PEOPLE ISRAEL ARE FOUND IN DANIEL CHAPTERS 8-12

PART I: ISRAEL AND ITS TEMPLE WILL BE RE-ESTABLISHED DURING THE SECOND AND THIRD KINGDOMS BUT WILL BE SEVERLY PERSECUTED DURING THE THIRD KINGDOM (GREECE)

Daniel 8:1-27
As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Daniel’s vision concerning the ram (Medo-Persia) and the goat ( Greece ) (Daniel 8:1-14).

A. The historic background of Daniel’s vision (verses 1, 2).

1. Daniel now returns to writing in Hebrew instead of the Aramaic he used in chapters 2-7. He writes chapter 1, chapters 8-12 in Hebrew because these chapters have special significance to Israel .

2. The third year of King Belshazzar would have probably been 550- 551 B.C. (two years after the vision in 7:1). Daniel would have been about 70 years old when he received this (verse 1).

3. In the vision, Daniel gets his geographical bearings by first being in the palace at Susa , the capital of Elam , located 230 miles east of Babylon . He then finds himself on the bank of an artificial canal (called the Ulai Canal ) a few miles away from Susa . King Cyrus of Persia took the nation of Elam and the capital Susa over about 550 B.C.

B. Daniel first sees a ram with two long horns (verses 3, 4).

1. This animal represents the Medo-Persian Empire that was going to replace the Babylonian Empire in 539 B.C. It ruled from 539-331 B.C. It was the second kingdom of Daniel 2:32b, 39a; 5:28 ; 7:5 and is interpreted for us in Daniel 8:20 .

2. The longer horn is Persia , the stronger part of the Medo-Persian Empire.

3. The conquests of King Cyrus had primarily a westward, northward, and southward direction (already discussed in Daniel 7:5).

C. Daniel next sees a quick, powerful one-horned goat (verses 5-8).

1. Alexander the Great came from the west ( Macedonia and Greece ) and with speed and fury took over the whole Medo-Persian Empire in under three years (333 B.C. – 331 B.C.)(verses 5, 6).

2. Alexander the Great ended up dying in Babylon in 323 B.C. at the age of 33 years old. At the height of his power, he had people worship him as a descendent of the Greek god Zeus (verse 7).

3. Alexander the Great did not have children, therefore, four of his generals battled it out and claimed their right to rule the kingdom of Greece : 1) Cassander – Macedonia and Greece ; 2) Lysimachus – Thrace and Bithynia ; 3) Ptolemy – Egypt and Palestine ; and 4) Seleucus – Phrygia to the Indus River. The Greek kingdom ruled from 331 B.C. to approximately 88 B.C. (verse 8; Dan. 7:6; 8:22 ; 11:4).

D. Daniel next sees another small but growing ruler arising out of the Grecian kingdom which will persecute the people of Israel (verses 9-14).

1. This ruler comes out of the third kingdom which is Greece but has some similar characteristics of the little horn coming out of the fourth kingdom which is Rome in Daniel 7:8, 23-27. We should not confuse the two, they are two separate people. However, it could be that Yahweh through Daniel is revealing some characteristics of the final persecutor of Israel (from the revived fourth kingdom of Rome who is also called the antichrist) through this third kingdom persecutor (see also Dan. 9:20-27; 11:21–12:3; Matt.24:15, 24; II Thes. 2:1-12; Rev. 13:1-18; 19:19-21).

2. The person in Greek history which relates to every aspect described by this person is Antiochus IV Epiphanes who ruled from 175-164 B.C. After murdering his brother and usurping power from his nephew, Seleucus IV, he invaded Egypt (south), Parthia and Armenia (east) and forcibly used Israel (the Beautiful or Glorious Land) at this time called Palestine, as a buffer between his kingdom and the Egyptian Ptolemaic armies (verse 9).

3. The terms “host of the heavens” and “starry host” in this context means true Israelite believers who will be persecuted and killed under Antiochus IV Epiphanes reign. The “stars” who “shine like the brightness of the heavens” are the same and similar terms found in Daniel 12:3 (verse 10).

4. Antiochus IV Epiphanes was very corrupt during his reign (verses 10-14)

a. He had the coins of his kingdom inscribed “theos epiphanes” which means “God Manifest” in Greek. Therefore, he set himself up as the Prince of the host, Yahweh Sabaoth, the only true God (verse 11).

b. He also, in December 167 B.C., erected a statue of Zeus Olympius in Yahweh’s temple and sacrificed pigs on the altar. He had already taken away the Jewish daily temple sacrifice months before this.

c. He made the possession of Hebrew Scriptures an offense deserving the death penalty. Therefore, truth (the Scriptures) was thrown to the ground (verse 12).

d. He made it a death penalty for Hebrews to circumcise their children bringing many faithful Jewish believers over to death (verse 12).

e. The prophesied time for the extreme persecution of this Greek ruler Antiochus IV Epiphanes is 2,300 evenings and mornings. The two ways of looking at this are either 2,300 days or 2,300 evening and morning burnt offering sacrifices making it 1,150 days (verse 13; Ex. 29:38-42; Numbers chapters 28, 29). Some Jewish and Christian scholars have calculated the reconsecration of the temple by the Jewish Maccabees to be exactly 1,150 days. The Jewish celebration of Hanukkah ( December 14, 164 B.C. ) celebrates this event (verse 14).

Thought: Yahweh cares and loves His people by revealing events, many in extraordinary detail, in His written revelation. These Scriptures should bring comfort, direction, and hope for His believers. Praise Yahweh “Hallelu-Yah.”

II. The angel Gabriel’s direct interpretation of the vision to Daniel (Daniel 8:15 -27).

A. Gabriel seems to be Yahweh’s messenger specifically to His Jewish people. This is the first place in Scripture where he is mentioned by name but he is mentioned three other times (verses 15, 16; Dan. 9:21 ; Luke 1:19 , 26).

B. Gabriel explains that the vision occurs at “an appointed time of the end” and “a time of wrath.” The idea of these statements seem to directly relate to the Antiochus IV Epiphanes time frame but could possibly hint at a preview of the time before the return of Christ (verses 17-19; Dan. 9:20-27; 11:36-12:3; Matt. 24:14-30; Rev. 3:10, 11).

C. Prophetic insights into Israel , the Greek ruler Antiochus IV Epiphanes, and a possible glimpse into some of the characteristics of the antichrist (verses 20-26).

1. Yahweh’s discipline was going to once again fall on Israel due to their rebellion, transgression, and sin. They were becoming corrupt, buying the high priesthood from Antiochus IV, and breaking the Mosaic covenant which they were under (verse 23a).

2. Antiochus IV would be severe, deceitful (winning the Jews over and then turning on them), powerful, and ultimately motivated by Satan. He will cause devastation in Israel , Jerusalem , the Temple and be a destroyer of Yahweh’s holy people (verses 23b-26, the details of this will be studied further in Daniel 11:21 -36, also for a history read the Apocryphal book of I Maccabees chapters 1-6 and Josephus chapter 16).

3. Daniel was distraught and disturbed at contemplating that the true people of Israel , after returning to the Beautiful Land from exile, will have to go through more trial later on. However, little does he know that he will be receiving more visions to come which will all be sealed up, written in Hebrew, for the time of the end (verse 27; Daniel 12:4).

Thought: Israel struggled with sin through their history with Yahweh, was disciplined and yet unconditionally loved! We as New Testament believers have the same sin, the same God, and yet more grace and Holy Spirit power because Christ has already died and rose again! (2 Cor. 3:4-18; Heb. 12:4-13)

Daniel 7:1-28

2009-10-29T10:40:00.000-07:00

YAHWEH’S PLAN FOR THE GENTILE NATIONS AND HIS FUTURE ETERNAL KING
Daniel 7:1-28

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. How Daniel chapter seven fits in with chapters two through seven and Daniel’s vision of the four great beasts (Daniel 7:1-8).

A. There is a unique structure that Daniel gives his Aramaic chapters of two through seven.

1. Chapter two is Nebuchadnezzar’s dream and chapter seven is Daniel’s dream. They both deal with the Most High giving His revelational plan for the main Gentile nations (which He controls) and His future Jewish Messiah’s eternal kingdom.

2. Chapter three is the Most High’s protection from the fiery furnace and chapter six is the Living God’s protection from the lion’s den. They both deal with the Jewish God’s power to protect His people.

3. Chapter four is the King of Heaven’s humbling of Nebuchadnezzar and chapter five is the Lord of Heaven’s humbling of Belshazzar. They both deal with the idea that the Jewish God is sovereign over human kingdoms and is the one who sets over them anyone that He wishes.

4. The message produced by Daniel chapters two through seven that was circulated in the common language of the time would have been three-fold: 1) Yahweh has a plan for the kingdoms of this world and this world will bow to His king for all eternity; 2) Yahweh will protect and be with His people through the events of this world and beyond; and 3) Yahweh has the ability and power to set up world kings and bring them down. Therefore people would be wise to trust in this God alone who is the only Most High, Living, King and Lord of Heaven and set aside all other gods.

B. The first year of Belshazzar’s reign was probably around 553 B.C. (three years after Nebonidus started and then named him co-ruler) and therefore Daniel would have been around 68 to 70 years old (Daniel 7:1)

C. Daniel’s vision of the four beasts relates very closely with Nebuchadnezzar’s vision of the statue found in chapter two (Daniel 7:2-7).

1. The great sea is usually used for the Mediterranean Sea
(Josh. 15:12 ; Ezek. 47:10) but in prophecy it means people groups and nations outside of the main believing community of Yahweh (Isa. 57:20; Rev. 17:1, 15) (Daniel 7:2, 3).

2. There are four great beasts that come out of this wind tossed churning water mass (Daniel 7:2, 3) which tie in to the four parts of the Daniel chapter two statue.

a. The lion with eagle wings was the kingdom of Babylon
(Daniel 2:37 , 38; Jer. 49:19, 22) which ruled from 605-539 B.C. The humbling and restoration of King Nebuchadnezzar describe the second part of verse 4a (see Dan. 4:28 -37).

b. The bear was the kingdom of Medo-Persia with Persia the dominant part of the kingdom. It ruled from 539–331 B.C. The three ribs are the three major conquests of the Lydian (546 B.C.), Babylonian (539 B.C.) and Egyptian (525 B.C.) Kingdoms (verse 5).

c. The leopard was the kingdom of Greece which ruled from 331 B.C. to (approx) 88 B.C. The four wings of a bird probably relates to the speed which Alexander the Great conquered the entire kingdom (around four years). The four heads prophesies the four divisions in which the empire was divided among the generals after Alexander died (verse 6, Daniel 8:8, 22; 11:4).

d. The ten-horned beast with iron teeth was the empire of Rome which ruled from around 88 B.C. to 476 A.D. They were never over-thrown by a fifth empire but were invaded by barbarian northern tribes and divided into ten tribes which became modern Europe . From the ten horns comes a little horn which will be an arrogantly boastful ruler who destroys three of the ten kings (verses 7, 8). (This will be further discussed in Daniel 7:24, 25 and Daniel chapters 8, 9, and 11).

Thought: Be encouraged with the knowledge that your God Yahweh has a plan for this world and that it is on schedule.

II. The visions of the Ancient of Days and the one like a son of man coming with the clouds of heaven (Daniel 7:9-14).

A. Just like in Daniel 2:44 after all four Gentile empires are discussed Yahweh’s fifth and final kingdom is set up with His own eternal king on the throne. Daniel 7:9-14 gives us more details of this future process.

B. The Ancient of Days or “advanced of days” speaks of Yahweh’s timelessness, eternality and His right as the wisest and oldest being to judge from His throne. New Testament believers usually see Him as God the Father. His white hair and clothing express His holiness (Rev. 1:14), the flaming throne on wheels His glory (Ezek. 1:4-28), and with an uncountable (“hundreds of millions”) number of angels surrounding Him, He is ready to judge (verses 9, 10).

C. The little boastful horn from verse eight is judged which signals an ending of the time that Yahweh has planned for the “time of the Gentiles” and leading up to the Son of Man’s (Christ’s) return (verses 11, 12;
Luke 21:20-28; Rom. 11:25 -27; Rev. 19:19-21).

D. The Son of Man with His saints is given the authority to rule His earthly kingdom and eternal kingdom. He is also worshipped. This is the promised Messianic King of Scriptures who turns out to be Jesus Christ the Lord (verses 13, 14; Dan. 3:4, 7; 4:1, 34; 5:19; 6:25; 7:27; Psalms 2:6-9; Matt. 24:30; 25:31; Mark 8:31 ; John 1:51; I Cor. 15:24-28; Rev. 1:7,13; 11:15 ; 20: 1-6).

Thought: Praise Yahweh Father and Yahweh Son for the wonderful work they have done and will do!

III. Daniel asks the holy messenger (possibly the angel Gabriel) for added information on the fourth beast and the previously mentioned little horn (Dan. 7:15 -28).

A. He receives a synopsis of all the events in verses 17 and 18. There will be four main Gentile kingdoms and eventually the saints and Messiah will inherit a kingdom on this earth which eventually becomes eternal (verses 15-18; Rev. 2:26, 27; 20:4-6).

B. The fourth beast represents a fourth Gentile world ruler on this earth and seems to match up best with the empire of Rome around 88 B.C. – 476 A.D. After being invaded by barbarian northern tribes, it was divided up into ten tribes which became modern Europe . At the end of time, the “little horn” arises out of this ten, blasphemes the Most High, changes set times and the laws, and is allowed to wage a 3 ½ year persecution of Yahweh’s people (verses 19-25, Matt. 24:4 – 25:36; Luke 2:48, 67-70; Dan. 9:20-27; 11:38, 29; Rev. 13:1-10).

C. The “little horn” or antichrist will be judged by the Ancient of Days and the Messiah with His saints will be given the kingdom on this earth (and eventually the new earth forever) (verses 26-28; Rev. 2:26, 27; I Thes. 4:13-18; II Thes. 2:1; 19:11 – 20:6).

Daniel 6:1-28

2009-07-30T17:00:00.000-07:00

YAHWEH, THE LIVING GOD, RESCUES DANIEL FROM A DEN OF LIONS

Daniel 6:1-28
As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. The plot of the jealous satraps and administrators to try to get rid of Daniel (Daniel 6:1-9).

A. The ruler Darius the Mede was mentioned only in the book of Daniel (Dan. 5:30 ; 6:1, 6, 9; 9:1) and not in Persian history. So who was this Medo-Persian ruler who started at the end of 539 B.C.?

1. Some believe it to be Darius I who ruled from 522 B.C. to
486 B.C. However, if he started at 62 years old and ruled 36 years, he would have ended at 98 years old. History does not agree with these ages.

2. Some believe it might have been King Cyrus himself who ruled from 559 B.C. to 530 B.C. These would believe that the alternative translation of Daniel 6:28 and the historical record give this view a leg up. However, why was he called a Mede when the rest of Scripture calls him a Persian?

3. Some believe Darius was a Medo-Persian royal name similar to the Roman “Caesar” or “Augustus.” So in this view, King Cyrus could have assigned someone to rule the city of Babylon under his authority and the Mede was added as a distinction of this person. We know from the Nabonidus-Cyrus Chronicle historically that a governor Gubaru (many times mixed up with Ugbaru) was appointed by King Cyrus as vice-regent of the Chaldean domains on October 29, 539 B.C. If this was the case, then King Cyrus could have had his own formal Coronation two years later. This view seems to fit the texts of Daniel 2:21; 6:1, 28; 9:1; and 10:1 as well as the known historical record in my opinion.

B. Daniel would have been about 80 years old in 539 B.C. w hen he was appointed as one of the three administrators over the Medo-Persian kingdom (Daniel 6:1-4).

1. He showed the same Yahweh anointed exceptional qualities as he has already showed previously (verse 3; Daniel 2:48 ).

2. Daniel’s Yahweh inspired qualities included not being corrupt, being trustworthy and not being negligent (being diligent). These are very good traits to find in any employee or ruler!

C. All the other rulers trick King Darius into enacting an irrevocable law in order to lay a trap for Daniel (Daniel 6:5-9). See how this also happened under King Xerxes I around 483 B.C. in Esther 1:19; 8:8).

Thought: Daniel exhibited many of the traits of the New Testament believer found in I Peter 3:8-17. What do we need to entrust to Yahweh today?

II. Daniel’s habit of praying remained the same even after the decree. Daniel’s spiritual strength came out of his daily walk with Yahweh (Daniel 6:10 -17).

A. His habit in exile was to face Jerusalem (I Kings 8:41 -43), get down on his knees (I Kings 8:54 ; Ezra 9:5; Psalms 95:6), and pray three times a day (Psalms 55:17)(verse 10).

B. Daniel asked God for help (verse 11, possibly meditating on Psalm 22?).

C. The den comes from an Aramaic word which gives the idea of an underground pit. A lid was placed over it with the official wax seal surrounding it (verses 12-17).

Thought: When we go through various trials, it’s a time to become very diligent with our daily walk.

III. There are three books of the Apocrypha that are inserted in the Catholic Bible for the book of Daniel.

A. The word “apocrypha” in the Greek means things that are hidden. It is a collection of 14 or 15 books or parts of books which were inserted into the older English Bible (as well as the Septuagint). They were never part of the Canon of Scripture (the list of what is now 66 books including 39 Old Testament and 27 New Testament).

B. To be part of the Canon, books are subjected to three main criteria:

1) Authority – internal words claiming authority by God (God breathed) and written by a prophet, apostle, or close associate;
2) Agreement – internal evidence that it agrees with the rest of Scripture;
3) Acceptance – wide acceptance among churches and church leaders.

C. The three apocryphal works surrounding Daniel include:
1) The Song of the Three Holy Children,
2) The History of Susanna, and
3) Bel and the Dragon. None of them show the inspiration of real Scripture and they have several inaccuracies compared to Daniel and other Scriptures.

IV. Yahweh, the only living God, rescues Daniel and receives praise from King Darius (Daniel 6:18 -28).

A. Daniel praises his God for sending his angel and shutting the mouths of the lions (verses 18-21).

1. This is similar wording to Psalm 22:13, 21 which Da niel might have been praying through.
2. The Messiah of Isaiah 11:6 (possibly the same Yahweh messenger in verse 21) will manifest perfect control over the animals in his Millennial Reign!

B. King Darius praises Daniel’s God as the one living God who is the Eternal King and who has the power to rescue and save His people (verses 22-27).

C. Daniel prospered all the way to the rule of Cyrus the Persian (verse 28). He remained in an administrative role until the first year of King Cyrus (Daniel 1:21 ) which was possibly two years after King Darius.

Daniel 5:1-31

2009-07-25T21:44:00.000-07:00

THE FALL OF BABYLON IS WRITTEN ON THE WALL

Daniel 5:1-31
As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. King Belshazzar, along with the Babylonian kingdom, feasts, fears, and finally fatally falters under Yahweh’s mighty hand (Daniel 5:1-12).

A. King Belshazzar, while feasting, blasphemes the God of Israel even though he should have known better (Daniel 5:1-4).

1. Belshazzar (“Bel, protect the king”) was the son of Nebonidus, (who was married to the daughter of Nebuchadnezzar and who was also a General under Nebuchadnezzar), the last historically recorded King of Babylon.

a. Nebonidus ruled the Babylonian empire from 556-539 B.C.
However, due to frequent traveling and illness, he assigned his son Belshazzar as co-ruler with him and Belshazzar spent most of his time ruling from the city of Babylon itself.

b. There are two historical, legal documents recorded by Nebonidus proclaiming Belshazzar as both Co-regent and Crown Prince in the 12th and 13th year of his reign (the Nebonidus-Cyrus Chronicle discovered in Nineveh , Iraq in 1879 and presently located in the British Museum ).

c. This would also make Belshazzar Nebuchadnezzar’s grandson on his mother’s side (verses 2, 11,13 and 18 use the term “father” which can be used for father, grandfather, or ancestor).

d. Before this chronicle was discovered, many scholars did not believe that a Belshazzar who was a “son” of Nebuchadnezzar ever historically existed. However, for supernatural loving Yahweh honoring believers, the prophecy in Jeremiah 27:5-7 was perfectly accurate!

2 . The Jerusalem Temple articles were taken to Babylon in stages (605 B.C. – Daniel 1:2 and 586 B.C. – Jer. 27:19-22; Lam. 1:10 ) and probably placed in the Temple of Marduk (verse 3). So these had been sitting in the hands of unbelievers from 47 years and up to 66 years.

3. As the feasters drank from the Jerusalem Temple ’s sacred vessels, they toasted and praised their gods but not the God, Yahweh the Most High King of Heaven! The timing is right for Yahweh to once again speak clearly.

B. The perfect timing of Yahweh’s prophecy, human responsibility, and God’s sovereign rule work together for another amazing wonder – the writing on the wall! (verses 5-9).

1. Belshazzar cannot stand under the power of what he was seeing on the wall (verses 5, 6). (A large 55 foot wide, 165 feet long hall has been excavated in Babylon with white plastered walls!)

2. The third ruler would put that person next in line to the throne behind Nebonidus and Belshazzar (verses 7, 8).

C. Even though the wise men of Babylon again are useless, the Queen Mother, (Belshazzar’s mother and Nebuchadnezzar’s daughter), remembered Daniel and the events of her father’s life as already described in Daniel chapters 1-4 (verses 10-12).

Thought: Daniel 5:1-12 should encourage us as believers because it shows us
that Yahweh’s timing is perfect. He is faithful to His covenant and He is faithful
to His Word. Are we struggling today with acknowledging His perfect timing or
His ability to carry out His covenant or His Word as He has promised us?

II. Daniel gives the meaning of the writing on the wall to King Belshazzar
(Daniel 5:13-29).

A. Daniel would have been around 80 years old at this time (verses 13-16).
According to historical records, the kingdom of Babylon fell to the kingdom of Medo-Persia in October 539 B.C.

B. Daniel explains to Belshazzar that his motive for interpreting the writing was not monetary but was rather to honor the only true and Most High God (verses 17-24).

1. Daniel takes the opportunity to relay how Yahweh humbled Nebuchadnezzar (Belshazzar’s grandfather) when he was prideful (verses 18-21; Daniel 4:1-37).

2. Daniel takes the opportunity to explain to Belshazzar that this same Most High God that “holds in His hand your life” is the same one who “sent this palm hand.” (verses 22-24).

a. There is a Hebrew word-play with the word hand which brings about emphasis and interest (see how the Apostle John does this in the Greek language in John 10:27 -30).

b. There is also a word-play going on between false gods who cannot see, hear, or understand and the one true God who does all of these as well as communicate His message perfectly with a human hand (also verse 4).

III. The message on the wall was written in Aramaic as a brief three word message with the first word repeated for emphasis (Daniel 5:25 -28).

A. Mene, mene means “to number or reckon.” It is the verb form for a unit of weight (called a mina in Greek) equal to 50 shekels or 1 ¼ pounds. God has numbered and numbered again (probably the start and finish of the Babylonian kingdom).

B. Tekel means “to weigh.” God has weighed Belshazzar and the Babylonian kingdom and found them to be deficient (probably to remain as the reigning world kingdom).

C. Upharsin is the plural form of pares “to divide” so the Babylonian kingdom will be divided and given to two kingdoms. Daniel tells us that there will be the Medes and Persians.

IV. The very night of the feast that blasphemed Yahweh, Daniel was recognized, Belshazzar was slain, and the Medo-Persian army too k over Babylon
(Daniel 5:29, 30).

A. Historically, it is chronicled that Babylon was already under assault by the Medo-Persian army led by King Cyrus during the time of this feast. However, Babylon had stored up a 20 year supply of food with the Euphrates River running through it for water. It was surrounded by a high outer and inner wall with a road between them wide enough to span two chariots abreast. It had a mote surrounding the whole city. It was viewed by those in the city as impenetrable.

B. However, evidently before or during the feast, the army figured out that they could divert the water of the Euphrates north of the city by building a canal system to a nearby lake. As the level of the water receded, the Medo-Persi an army went under the sluice gate and defeated the city October 12, 539 B.C. (see Isaiah 47:1-5 and Daniel 2:32 , 39).

C. Darius the Mede was probably an official named Gubaru whom King Cyrus appointed as his vice-regent before his formal coronation two years later (see Daniel 9:1).

Thought: Can you trust Yahweh, the King of Heaven, who sets up and takes
down world kingdoms with your life situations today?

Daniel 4:1-37

2009-07-16T09:10:00.000-07:00

THE MOST HIGH GOD IN HEAVEN RULES OVER HUMAN KINGDOMS

Daniel 4:1-37
As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. The setting and events of King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, about the enormous tree, as told by Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:1- 18).

A. Nebuchadnezzar has had an experience with the Most High God of which he desires to tell to all the world (verses 1-3).

1. He has personally had an encounter with the Most High God’s miraculous signs (God’s intervention through the amazing timing and direction of natural phenomena) and miraculous wonders (God’s supernatural manifestations unexplainable using natural phenomena) (verse 2).

2. Through this event (which we will find out lasted over eight years), Nebuchadnezzar found out that only the Most High God’s Kingdom is eternal and that He ultimately rules through human kingdoms now (verse 3).

3. The Sep tuagint and Hebrew Text (MT) includes these three verses at the end of chapter 3 and starts chapter 4 with verse 4. However, most Biblical scholars see a better link with this chapter, as an introduction statement, because it fits so perfectly with the statement of Daniel 4:37.

B. When this dream happened, Nebuchadnezzar was in his palace in a contented and prosperous place in his life (verse 4). This might help us to figure out a possible timing of this event as it relates to Nebuchadnezzar’s rule which was from 605-562 B.C.

1. When a king says this it usually means that he is not fighting any more wars (2 Samuel 7:1). Nebuchadnezzar’s last two wars were Egypt (588-587 B.C.) and Jerusalem (587-586 B.C.). Following these were a protracted 10 to 13 year siege of <>Tyre which probably ended around 570 B.C. (Ezek. 26:7-14).

2. We also know from Daniel 4:4, 29, 30 and history that Nebuchadnezzar built up his palace, the hanging gardens, the structures inside Babylon, and the walls with amazing detail and in an ornate and opulent manor for all the world to see. This was probably going on during the wars and especially during the siege of Tyre.

3. We know that if Nebuchadnezzar was in on the final siege of Tyre (Ezek. 26:7) which ended in 570 B.C. that he would have presumably been in his right mind by then.

4. We know that Nebuchadnezzar’s reign of Babylon went from 605 B.C. to 562 B.C. Therefore, given the fact that he was eventually restored to his right mind and appears to rule for several years after (Dan. 4:36, 37), the best probability for the timing of this 8-9 year event would have been a few years after Jerusalem’s destruction.

C. Nebuchadnezzar again calls on Daniel (Belteshazzar) to help him interpret his dream after finding his own wise men useless (verses 5-18).

1. Before this event in Nebuchadnezzar’s life, his main god is Bel (Babylon’s counterpart to the Baal of the Canaanites) whose name is Marduk. Belteshazzar’s name, “Lady prote ct the king,” includes the wife of this god, the goddess Surpanitu, protecting the king. It can also be a shortened form for Bel-Belteshazzar “Bel, protect his life” (verses 5-8).

2. This enormous tree is described by the heavenly watchman as both a cut down yet preserved tree and as a man whose mind will change into an animal and yet be restored after seven times (verses 9-16).

3. The purpose of this dream was so that those living would understand that it’s the Most High (Highest God) that domineers over the kingdoms of men and sets their rulers in place at His pleasure (verses 17, 18).

Thought: How has Yahweh, the God of the Universe, gotten your attention
through events in your life? Is He trying to get your attention now?

II. Daniel interprets Nebuchadnezzar’s dream (verses 19-27).

A. He speaks in a gentle and respectful tone (verses 19-21; I Peter 3:15).

B. He speaks the truth in love (verses 22-27; Eph. 4:15).

1. The king is the tree (verse 22). This showed Daniel’s boldness.

2. The Babylonian kingdom is large but not exhaustive (compare verse 22 with verse 11). Daniel was gently corrective.

3. The king will lose his mind for seven years but will eventually be restored to his place as ruler of Babylon when he acknowledges the one ruling over him (verses 23-26). Daniel used the help of the Holy Spirit and the skill of Scriptural interpretation.

a. The seven times in the text are seven years (comparing Jeremiah 25:11, 12; 29:10 with Dan. 7:25; Dan. 9:2, 24-27; Matt. 24:15; 2 Thes. 2:1-4; Rev. 11:2, 3; 13:5). Besides seven weeks or months would not have been enough time for his nails and hair to grow out.

b. Current day psychiatry and psychology have a classification of mental disease called clinical Lycanthropy which involves a person having a delusion that they are transforming into an animal. Zoanthropy is the delusion that he/she is an animal. Boanthropy is being transformed into a cow such as what Nebuchadnezzar probably had.

4. The king i s asked to repent of his pride (vs 27). Daniel showed a deep intimacy with Yahweh.
Thought: When you or someone close to you is going through a hard time, it is a
good possibility that Yahweh wants to speak through you to others about
what you are learning.

III. After a year of grace, Nebuchadnezzar’s pride activates Yahweh’s humbling, seven years of cow-like behavior, followed by repentance and restoration
(Daniel 4:28-37).

A. Outside the city of Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar grazes with the cattle, doesn’t groom his hair or nails, and stays in a psychotic state for seven years (verses 28-34).

B. After seven years Nebuchadnezzar repents, submits his authority to the Most High King of Heaven (Yahweh) and is restored to his kingdom (verses 35-37).

Daniel 3:1-30

2009-07-09T08:52:00.000-07:00

YAHWEH, THE MOST HIGH GOD, RESCUES HIS PEOPLE!

Daniel 3:1-30

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Nebuchadnezzar has a huge golden image made for the purpose of the Babylonian Empire’s worship (Daniel 3:1-7).

A. This image was 90 feet tall=2 0and 9 feet wide and covered in gold. It was more than likely an image of Nebuchadnezzar himself or of the Babylonian god Nebo (Nabu) from where his name was derived. (Nebuchadnezzar means, “Nebo, protect my boundary.”)

B. Dura (which means “any place enclosed by a mountain or a wall”) was most likely located six miles south of the city of Babylon . In this location, there has been a 45 foot square, 20 foot high platform discovered from archeological digs which probably served as its platform.

C. In conservative, supernatural loving scholarship, there are three possible dates for this occurrence.

1. The Greek Septuagent starts Daniel 3 off with, “In the eighteenth year of Nebuchadnezzar’s reign,” which would have been 588-587 B.C. This would have been about one year before Jerusalem ’s final fall in 586 B.C.

2. Jeremiah 51:59 says that King Zedekiah and his staff officer Seraiah were summoned to Babylon for a meeting between 594-593 B.C. When they arrived at Babylon , Seriah was supposed to deliver Jeremiah’s prophecy. This could have been that meeting.

3. This might have been early on in Nebuchadnezzar’s reign, maybe 602-600 B.C., to establish his ultimate rule over his Babylonian kingdom.

D. All the government officials of Babylon were supposed to come to the dedication of this image and after a proclamation and song were commanded to bow down and worship it (verses 2-7).

E. During the seven-year tribulation period, before Christ’s Kingdom is fully realized on this earth, there will be another image that will be set up to be worshipped (2 Thes. 2:4; Rev. 13:11-18, 14:9-11).

Thought: What are the “gods” of this world which believers need to avoid worshipping?

II. Three Jewish believers refuse to worship the image and are miraculously saved by Yahweh’s messenger (Dan. 3:8-27).

A. Nebuchadnezzar reacts with furious rage and arrogant blasphemy against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (and their God Yahweh) at their refusal to worship the image (verses 8-15).

1. Another contest between the Babylonian gods and Yahweh has been set up by the words of Nebuchadnezzar (verse 15).

2. Daniel was not with these three at this time. He could have either been out of the area on business for the Babylonian kingdom or “untouchable” due to his recently elevated status.

B. Great bravery, faith, and resolve were demonstrated by these Jewish believers (verses 16-18).

1. They knew the Torah (Scriptures) of Yahweh. Some of the verses that they may have meditated on were the Shema (Deut. 6:4,5), the Ten Commandments (Ex.20; Deut. 5), and Isaiah (43:1,2; 46:1-5).

2. They answered the king in a courteous and respectful manner (verse 16; I Peter 3:15 ,16).

3. They did not know the exact will of Yahweh for the moment (for this life) but they proclaimed their uncompromising faith in Yahweh’s ability to rescue them (as His believers) and glorify Himself as an eternal principal (verses 17,18). The Apostle Paul also showed this attitude (Acts 20:24 ).

C. The three Jewish believers were bound and thrown into a large furnace (verses 19-24) and rescued by a Yahweh sent messenger (verses 19-27).

1. There have been some large brick-kiln type furnaces archeologically excavated in the Middle East and Babylonian area the size of 10 feet by 8 feet rooms.

2. They were not burnt in any way, did not smell of smoke, and a fourth person was seen with them.

a. The idea of a triune God called Yahweh who was the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit was progressively being revealed in the Old Testament.

b. An appearance of Christ, the Son, in the Old Testament, before being incarnated as Jesus the Christ, is called a Theophany (“God manifestation”). Even though Jewish scholars usually assign this person to be the angel Gabriel, this fourth person walking in the furnace seems to be one of these theophanies of Christ (also see Gen. 16:7-13; 18:1-15; Ex. 3; 14:19-24; 33:11; Josh. 5:13–6:2; I Cor. 10:1-6).

Thought: In the midst of your situations right now, are you believing that your God Yahweh is with you in it through Jesus Christ? Are you believing that He is ultimately going to re scue you and therefore you can live in His peace now? (Heb. 13:5-8; Rom. 8:37,28; I Thes. 1:10).

III. There were three main outcomes from the Biblical account of the fiery furnace (Dan. 3:28 -30).

A. The God of Israel (Yahweh) is praised by the mouth of the heathen King Nebuchadnezzar.

B. All Jewish exiles will now receive a certain amount of political protection and religious freedom in Babylon .

C. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego receive another promotion.

Thought: Trusting God in the midst of life’s struggles brings God praise and brings His Kingdom into a visible and tangible form here now on earth.

Daniel 2:1-49

2009-06-26T16:43:00.000-07:00

YAHWEH, THE GOD OF HEAVEN, REIGNS OVER ALL!

Daniel 2:1-49

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Yahweh gets Nebuchadnezzar’s attention through a reoccurring, troubling, dream and Nebuchadnezzar reacts with impatience and anger (Daniel 2:1-13).

A. The second year of Nebuchadnezzar’s actual “full-year” reign would have been between April 603 B.C. and March 602 B.C. (verse 1).

B. The king assembled the experts in sacred writings (magicians), in dead spirits (enchanters), in occult practices (sorcerers), and star readers (astrologers) (verse 2).

C. The king wanted to test the validity of these “experts” by having them tell him his dream and would have them killed if they couldn’t (verses 3-13).

1. Daniel 2:4b through 7:28 is written in Aramaic, the common, “universal” language of the time. The rest of Daniel was written in Hebrew, the language of Israel . Daniel became proficient in both languages (verse 4).

2. The king promises great reward to the one who could tell him his dream and a cruel death to each of these wise men and their families if they can’t (verses 5-9).

3. Another classic battle between the so-called gods of humans and the only God of Heaven (Universe) is going to happen in the pages of Scripture! (verses 10-13, also chapter 1:6, I Kings 18:36,37).

Thought: Where is our focus and mind centered on for the solution to our problems today? Are we reacting with impatience and anger or trust?

II. Yahweh reveals Nebuchadnezzar’s dream to Daniel through answered prayer (Daniel 2:14 -23). Daniel’s response is like a sermon=2 0on how believers should handle difficulties.

A. Daniel speaks with a right tone of voice and with wisdom and tact
(verses 14, 15; Proverbs 15:1,2).

B. Daniel asked the king for some more time to accomplish the task. He wanted some time to pray about his situation personally (verse 16).

C. Daniel recruited prayer support from his believing friends and they prayed for specific Yahweh-honoring requests (verses 17, 18).

D. Daniel received the answer and praised God’s name specifically for His power to rule and His wisdom to reveal (verses 19-23).

Thought: Think and pray through these steps and ask Yahweh to make us stronger and more trusting in Jesus name.

III. Daniel explains the dream to Nebuchadnezzar, brings glory to Yahweh, and ends up getting blessed in the process (Daniel 2:24 -40).

A. Daniel makes sure to give the God of Heaven, Yahweh, all the glory and honor for this answered prayer (verses 24-30).

B. He explains to the king that his dream explains what will happen in “days to come,” “latter days” or “the end of days” (verses 28, 29). This term relates to bringing in Messiah’s reign on earth (Gen. 49:1; Deut. 4:30 , 31:29; Isa. 2:2; Ezek. 38:16). It specifically seems to relate to things dealing with the time period between the crucifixion of Christ and Second Coming of Christ in the New Testament, before Christ’s Millenial Reign (Joel 2:28-32; Acts 2:17).

C. The actual dream consists of an enormous, dazzling statue composed of four different metals: A gold head, silver chest and arms, bronze belly and thighs, and iron legs connected to feet of iron and clay. Then a stone made without hands smashes the statue to powder, which is blown away by the wind. The stone then grows and became a great mountain and filled the whole earth (verses 33-35).

D. The interpretation of the dream is found in verses 36-45.

1. The God of Heaven has purposed four kingdoms to rule over and dominate this earth (as of the time of Daniel) before He (the God of Heaven) sets up His own eternal kingdom (verses 36-43).

a. The gold head we know was Babylon which ruled from 605-539 B.C. Isaiah calls it “the golden city”) (Isa. 14:4). It had golden domed temples with its chief god, Bel-Marduk which was made of solid gold.

b. The silver chest and arms we know was Medo-Persia which ruled from 539-331 B.C. It did not have the impressiveness of Babylon and their taxes were paid in silver.

c. The bronze belly and thighs we know was Greece which ruled from 331 B.C. – (approx.) 168 B.C. &nbs p;Greek soldiers wore all bronze armor and were called “brazen coated.”

d. The iron legs best fits the empire of Rome which ruled from ~168 B.C.- 476 A.D. Iron expresses the toughness and fierceness of Rome . They were never overthrown by a fifth empire but were invaded by barbarian northern tribes and divided up into ten tribes which became modern Europe .

2. Eventually the God of Heaven will set up His kingdom that will never be destroyed and will destroy all other kingdoms. This is the stone which was made without the hands of man’s kingdoms because God Himself, Yahweh, will bring it to pass (verses 44-45).

a. Amillenialists (people who do not believe in a literal 1,000 year reign of Christ) say that this was a spirit ual kingdom started by Jesus Christ at His first coming.

b. Premillenialists say that the kingdom was inaugurated by Christ’s first coming but will be literally fulfilled during His second coming (Rev. 19:5).

E. Daniel and his friends are promoted in Babylon (verses 46-49).

Daniel 1:1-21

2009-06-18T08:15:00.000-07:00

Daniel 1:1-21

as taught by "guest geek" Richard Weisenberger

A key theological point of Daniel chapter one is this: God is sovereign in the world at both the national and individual levels. This is seen in the three-fold use of the Hebrew term nathan (give) by God:

1) Verse 2 – The Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into Nebuchadnezzar’s hand which altered the course of world history.

2) Verse 9 – God gave Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the commander of the officials thus precluding the spiritual assimilation of Daniel and his friends into the religion of Babylon.

3) Verse 17 – God gave Daniel and his three friends knowledge and insight which effectively defeated the religious practitioners of Babylon.

The Context – Deportation to Babylon (vv 1-2)

4) This event is the fulfillment of both Covenant promises (Deuteronomy 28:36-37) and prophecy (Jeremiah 25:8-9).

5) The use of the term Lord (Hebrew Adonai) in verse two emphasizes God’s sovereignty over Nebuchadnezzar’s victory.

6) Daniel mentions the deportation of the temple articles and their deposit in the Babylonian temple. Why is this important?

The Contest – Daniel’s First Test (vv 3-16)

7) The king orders that some of the conquered nobility be taken into his service. This was common practice and provided the king with access to the deported populace.

8) These youths were the cream of the crop, handsome and without shortcomings, intelligent and knowledgeable.

i. They were to be taught the literature and language of the Chaldeans to better serve the king. This training would take three years.
ii. They were to partake of the king’s own table.
iii. They were given new names which were related to the Babylonian gods.

Daniel – “God is my judge”
Belteshazzar – “Lady [wife of Marduk] protect the king”
Hananiah – “Yahweh has been gracious”
Shadrach – “I am very fearful”
Mishael – “Who is as God?”
Meshach – “I am of little account”
Azariah – “Yahweh has helped”
Abednego – “Servant of the shining one (or Nabu)”

9) The four submit to all of these conditions without objection save one.

i. They can serve God and serve in a pagan court.
ii. Their training in Scripture and the religion of Yahweh would not be overcome by their training in Babylonian religion and thought.
iii. The Babylonian names appear to be jokes on their gods.
iv. But Daniel makes up his mind not to defile himself by eating the king’s food. What is really at stake here?

10) Daniel’s Test:

i. Daniel takes the initiative to ask for leniency.
ii. God intervenes in adjusting the attitudes of the commander of the officials.
iii. The commander of the officials has a legitimate concern.
iv. Daniel proposes a test to the overseer and submits himself to his final judgment.
v. God honors Daniel’s commitment. He and his friends pass the test and they are allowed to keep their vegetarian diet.

The Conclusion – Daniel’s Rise to Favor (vv 17-21)

11) God’s sovereignty comes again to the fore when He supernaturally augments the four friends’ natural intellectual abilities.

12) To Daniel God gives the special ability to understand visions and dreams. This anticipates significant portions of the book.

13) So great were their God given abilities that they were found by the king to be “ten times better” than all the magician/conjurers in the realm.

14) The chapter ends where it started, with a time note: God preserves Daniel from his youth through several Babylonian rulers down to the time of Cyrus, king of Persia, when he is about 90.

INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND TO DANIEL

2009-06-11T08:51:00.000-07:00

INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND TO DANIEL

Daniel 1:1,2

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Purposes for the writing of Daniel.

A. Yahweh is faithful, loving, encouraging, and protective of His disobedient people in their Babylonian exile (especially chapters 3,6,9,12).

B. Yahweh is in control of the events of this world (Sovereign) while holding His human creation responsible for their God-given freedoms (especially chapters 2,4,5,7-12).

C. Yahweh’s redemption program is for Israel ’s message to bring His light to all people and nations (especially chapters 2-7,9,12)

D. Yahweh will certainly bring His King, the Son of Man (Jesus), into this world and eventually will set Him up as His only ruler for all time in Jerusalem (especially Daniel 2:44,45; 3:25; 4:34,35; 5:23; 6:26,27; chapter 7; 8:25; chapter 9).

E. Yahweh rules over the trials of this world as well as physical death and has promised resurrection during the rulership of His King (especially chapters 1,3,6,12).

II. Historical dates and rulers as they relate to the book of Daniel.

A. Daniel was taken captive from Jerusalem in 605-604 B.C. and taken to Babylon by Nebuchadnezzar (Dan. 1:1). His last written vision was during the third year of King Cyrus of Persia in 5 35 B.C. Therefore, the book spans about 70 years.

B. Daniel mentions four rulers during the time of this writing:
Nebuchadnezzar (605-562 B.C.), Belshazzar (550-539 B.C.), Darius the Mede (539 B.C.), and Cyrus (539-530 B.C.).

C. Daniel chapters 1-4 are under Nebuchadnezzar, chapters 5,7, and 8 Belshazzar, chapters 6 and 9 Darius the Mede, and chapters 10-12 Cyrus.

III. The authorship of the book is accepted by conservative, supernatural accepting scholars to be the same statesman-prophet of the book, Daniel.

A. He probably compiled and completed this book during his retirement between 532-530 B.C. He was probably around 90 years of age.

B. It appears that Daniel (chapters 9:2,20; 10:2) and Jesus (Matt. 24:15, Mark 13:14 ) relate to his authorship and Ezekiel probably refers directly to his godly character as his comtemporary (Ezekiel 14:14 ,20). There are also numerous references in Matthew 24, I and II Thessalonians, and especially Revelation that use the same words and language found in Daniel.

C. Some liberal, non-supernatural accepting scholars like to assign a date of 200-150 B.C. due to the complete accuracy of the prophecies, miraculous events, the two language format (Hebrew, chapters 1,8-12 and Aramaic chapters 2-7), and the third person (chapters 1-7) – first person (chapters 8-12) changes.

IV. Important historical dates for Israel and Jerusalem as it relates to the dates of Daniel.

A. Isaiah prophesies Judah ’s and Jerusalem ’s fall to Babylon because of disobedience before 703 B.C. (Isaiah 39).

B. There were three separate times Judah and Jerusalem were deported to Babylon :
1) 605 B.C. – Daniel and others,
2) 597 B.C. – Ezekiel and others (2 Kings 24:11-16),
3) 586 B.C. – the complete destruction of Jerusalem (2 Kings 25:1-21), Jeremiah is taken to Egypt and writes Lamentations.

C. There are three main returns of the exiles back to Jerusalem :

1) Zerubbabel 538 B.C. (Ezra 2),
2) Ezra 458 B.C. (Ezra 7), and 3) Nehemiah 444 B.C. (Neh. 1).

The new Jerusalem temple began under Cyrus (536 B.C.) and was completed under Darius I (515 B.C.). Psalms 107-150 (Book 5) records the joy of the return, the temple, an d the completion of the walls.

V. Daniel 1:1and 2

A. The invasion of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar is well documented in 2 Kings 23:36 – 24:1 as well as Babylonian historical records.

1. Therefore, as believers, we welcome historical scrutiny.

2. Two things to reason through:

a. This says the third year of Jehoiakim’s reign and Jer. 25:1, 36:1, 46:2 say the fourth year. This is because the Babylonian system Daniel was under only counted full years rather than a rounding up system Jeremiah was under.
b. Nebuchadnezzar is called Nebuchadrezzar in Jeremiah (Jer. 25:2 for example) and Ezekiel. The original Babylonian language, Akkadian, spelling in English is Nabu-kudurri-usur. So the r sound is actually more accurate. Evidently as the language progressed, the n and r sounds interchanged after a d sound due to ease of speech.

B. Some of the items from the Jewish temple were taken during this 605 B.C. invasion and placed in the temple for the Babylonian gods. Possibly Marduk was one of the main gods. Therefore, from the very beginning of the book, we are presented with a conflict between the power of the only God of the Universe Yahweh against the Babylonian gods.

I John 4:20 - 5:21

2009-05-28T09:36:00.000-07:00

PRACTICAL CONCERNS AND CHRISTIAN CERTAINTIES

I John 4:20 - 5:21

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Now that the Apostle John has finished the main body of his letter in I John 4:19,
he now discusses three practical issues the churches need to know about in
I John 4:20 - 5:17.

A. The practical issue of who Christians are and why we as Christians should love
them (I John 4:20 - 5:3a).

One of my professors, Fred Chay of Phoenix Seminary, said it this way:
1. Love does not mean that I trust them or like being with them.
2. Love does mean desiring what God wants for them.
3. Love does mean doing for them what God wants for them.
4. We are to pray for them Matt. 5:44 and James 5:16; encourage
them I Thes. 5:11; and forgive them Eph. 4:32.

B. The practical issue of how we as Christians overcome the world (I John 5:3b - 15).

1. The fact that Jesus overcame the world gives Christians the power to have
overcome and to overcome through Him (I John 5:3b-5; John 16:33).
2. The fact that God has given us a reliable, historical record as to the human
Jesus being the Christ (prophesied Anointed One) and the Son of God (second
person of the Trinity, God in the flesh), gives Christians overcoming power
(I John 5:6 - 13).

a. The testimony of the Spirit includes the descent from heaven upon Jesus
(John 1:32), the descent upon and in the believers (Acts 2; I Cor. 12:13),
the written testimony of the apostles and those who knew the apostles
(John 14:15-26; the New Testament), and the Resurrection of Christ
(John 16:6-16; Acts 1:1-11).
b. The testimony of water was the baptism of Christ along with the voice
from heaven (John 1:32-34; Matt. 3:13-17; Mark 1:9-11; Luke 3:21-22).
c. The testimony of blood was the crucifixion of Christ (John 19:28-37;
Matt. 27:32-54; Mark 15:21-41; Luke 23:26-49).
d. The Old Testament testimony was established by two or three witnesses
(Deut. 17:6; 19:15) and this idea was carried over in this and other New
Testament contexts (Matt. 18:16; John 8:17-18).
e. The heretic Cerinthus taught that the divine Christ descended on the human
Jesus at his baptism and ascended before his crucifixion. John’s writing
shows the error of this thinking and shows the reliable record Christians
have of overcoming false prophets of any kind!
f. The “these things” in verse 13 relates to I John 5:6-12 rather than to the
whole letter as already discussed (see I John 1:4, 2:1, and 2:26).

3. The fact that God lives in His believers, lives by His Holy Spirit in their new
natures, gives Christians overcoming power as they pray according to His
will (I John 5:14,15).

C. The practical issue of praying for other Christians as we see them sin
( I John 5:16, 17).

1. Christians can and still do sin in their total person or mortal body while living
out their faith (I John 1:5 - 2:2; I Peter 2:1; Gal. 6:1).
2. God has taken some Christians home early through physical death
(Acts 5:1-11; I Cor. 11:27-32) but because of God’s graciousness, only
suddenly on infrequent occasions.
3. By praying for our fellow believers, who are caught in sin, things according
to Gods will, and being willing to help bring them back to the truth, we can
add time and blessings to their physical life (James 5:19,20; Rom. 6:16-23;
Prov. 10:2, 11:4, 19; 12:28).

II. Final Closing: Three certainties and an admonition (I John 5:18-21).

A. We know that: A Christians new nature is free from sin and Satan (vs 18).

B. We know that: A Christian is on God’s side and the world is on Satan’s side
(vs 19).

C. We know that: A Christian has been given spiritual intelligence about the Son of
God and is in the Son of God (vs 20).

D. Christians should guard themselves from opposite ideas (vs 21).

I John 2:28 - 4:19 (Part 3)

2009-05-22T14:58:00.000-07:00

CONFIDENCE BEFORE CHRIST AT HIS COMING: Part III

I John 2:28 - 4:19

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. Manifesting Christ’s righteousness brings confidence to the believer (previous lesson I John 2:28 - 3:10a).

"In saying that the regenerate inward person (Rom. 7:22) keeps himself (from sin), John is not saying, of course, that our inner self can somehow prevent all sin in the Christian life. John’s discussion in 1:5-10 shows he could not mean something like that. What John means is that God’s "seed remains in" the regenerate inward self (I John 3:9) as the controlling element of his born again nature and is impervious to even the slightest contamination from the wicked one. Thus not only can Satan not defeat the regenerate man, but he cannot even touch him (I John 5:18). It is reassuring to remember that whatever failures may be, they do not really touch what we are at the core of our being as God’s children. In the last analysis, our failures are due to the sinful "programming" of our earthly bodies, as Paul himself taught in Romans 7:7-25. Christians need to know this. At the very moment that we are most humbled by our sinful failures, and when we confess them, it is helpful to be confident that those failures have not really changed what we are as children of God." Zane C. Hodges, "The Epistles of John," page 242.

II. Loving our fellow Christians with Christ’s love brings confidence to the believer(I John 3:10b - 3:23).

A. Believers are the only ones that can love other believers with Christ’s love. But it is a choice (I John 3:10b -12; John 13:34; Gen. 4). Choosing to love your brother reveals Christ’s life abiding in you (I John 3:13-15; Rom. 6:6-18).

B. Christ is the believers example for loving other believers (I John 3:16-17).

C. Choosing to love other believers quiets our inner core and increases our confidence with God in prayer (I John 3:18-23).

III. Abiding in the truth of Christ’s Spirit brings confidence to the believer (I Jn 3:24-4:16)

A. A believer has been given the Holy Spirit of God at the time of belief (I John 3:24; I Cor. 12:13; Rom. 8:9).

B. Believers need to "test the spirits" by testing if a person’s words line up with the historical and Biblical message about Jesus Christ (I John 4:1-6; 2 Cor. 4:4,5; 2 Cor. 11:3,4; Gal. 1:6-9). - I ask this question, "Do you believe that Jesus is the only God of the Universe (Son of God, Yahweh) who came into this world and lived, died, and rose again for the sins of the world (Jesus as Savior and the prophesied Christ) so that you personally might have eternal life through Him?

C. Believers who continue in the correct teaching of God’s love shown to this world through the work of God’s Son, Jesus the Christ, reveal the abiding Holy Spirit in them (I John 4:7-16).

IV. Manifesting Christ’s righteousness, loving fellow believers, and abiding in the truth of Christ’s Spirit brings inner and outer confidence to believers (I John 4:17-19).

A. In John’s mind, these true spiritual realities are the goal of ones faith between Christ’s first and second coming (I John 2:28; 3:2; 4:17).

B. He calls this perfected or matured love which brings confidence to a believer and eliminates fear (verses 17,18) to the glory of God (verse 19).

I John 2:28 - 4:19 (Part 2)

2009-05-14T09:09:00.000-07:00

CONFIDENCE BEFORE CHRIST AT HIS COMING: PART II

I John 2:28 - 4:19

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. In the last lesson, we learned that the main body of this letter goes from I John 2:28 - 4:19.

A. The overall theme of this section is written by John to explain how believers can have confidence at Christ’s coming and judgment seat. He uses the inclusio device with the word confidence (parresian) in 2:28 and 4:17 (with another tossed in the middle at 3:21).

B. The subsections of "abiding in Christ," "manifesting Christ’s righteousness," and "loving fellow believers through Christ" were introduced in I John 2:28 - 3:3.

C. There should be no doubt that John’s audience is his fellow believers.

1. Everything discussed from 1:1 - 2:27 has been to explain fellowship (koinonia).

2. John is writing to the "little children" in this section starting at 2:28. This has already been used in 2:1, 12, and was used first by Jesus in John 13:33 after Judas had left and He was talking to only His true believers and disciples.

3. John uses the word abiding which is his word for discipleship whereas belief is his word for justification salvation.

4. He uses the concepts of manifesting Christ’s righteousness and loving Christians with Christ’s love. Both of these come after belief (justification) and they cannot happen before belief.

II. John outlines the subsections of this main body from I John 2:28 - 4:19 by using more inclusios.

A. He uses the inclusio of "manifesting" (phanero) in 2:28 - 3:10a, the inclusio "loving" (agapao) in 3:10b - 3:23, and the inclusio of "abiding" (meno) in 3:24 - 4:16.

B. John concludes his thoughts of this main body of his letter from 4:17 - 4:19. He explains that if the manifesting, loving, and abiding in Christ are carried out, a confidence before Christ can happen in believers. This he calls perfected or mature love.

III. Manifesting Christ’s righteousness brings confidence to the believer (I John 2:28-3:10a).

A. Jesus Christ manifested righteousness in His first coming to take away or bear sin (I John 3:5; Romans 3:21-26).

B. Jesus Christ will be manifested in glorified righteousness in His second coming (I John 2:28; Rev. 1:12-18; 19:9-16).

C. Believers are now children of God through Christ and have been given a new nature and Christ’s imputed righteousness (I John 3:1-3; 2 Cor. 5:17-21).

D. The new nature of the believer is as sinless as Christ’s nature. Christ lives in the believers sinless new nature by His Holy Spirit (I John 3:3,6,9; Rom. 8:9,14).

E. As a believer abides in Christ, by submitting his/her total mortal body to the control of the Holy Spirit and his/her new nature, that believer lives without sin (I John 3:6). This act undoes the work of the devil in the believer’s life for that instant (I John 3:8).

F. John calls this walking in the light or the truth (I John 1:6-8; 2 John 2:4).

I John 2:28 - 4:19

2009-05-07T08:20:00.000-07:00

CONFIDENCE BEFORE CHRIST AT HIS COMING: PART I

I John 2:28 - 4:19

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. The main body of the apostle John’s letter is written to explain how believers can have confidence at Christ’s coming and judgment seat (I John 2:28 - 4:19).

A. We know that this is the main section of the letter because of a literary device known as an inclusio.

1. The Greek word “parresian” is given in 2:28 and 4:17 to explain the almost synonymous phrases of “confidence (parresian)...before Him at His coming(2:28)” and “boldness (parresian) in the day of judgment (4:17).”

2. The Greek word “parresia” can mean confidence, boldness, outspokenness and frankness. It is the exact opposite of the concept of shame and shrinking back.

3. In the middle of this section, we have the word “parresian” used again to explain how answered prayer also fits into this confidence (3:21).

B. As believers our confidence is found by abiding (“meno” in Greek) or remaining in Christ and His teachings (2:28).

1. John first uses this term in his gospel in the verses of John 1:32, 38-39, and 2:12. In these verses, it is translated as remaining and staying.

2. John’s use of the word “meno” dramatically picks up after chapter 12 of his gospel when he starts emphasizing discipleship. In Jesus’ upper room discourse in chapters 14-17, most of the 40 uses of “meno” in the gospel of John are recorded with 11 uses recorded in John 15:3-11 alone!

3. I John has “meno” used 24 times. In this letter, John continues Jesus’ use of the word as stay, remain, reside, continue, and endure in obedience for the sake of fellowship and discipleship.

C. As believers we have had Christ manifested already in our hearts, however, our confidence and boldness grows as that inner life is manifested in our day to day lives (2:28). The Greek word “phanero” translated manifested is used six times from 2:28 - 3:10.

D. Believers are eternally saved through belief in Christ and His work alone (justified) and can never be lost (John 4:24, 10:27-30; Rom. 3:20-24, 8:37,38). However, according to many Scriptures, believers must give an account before Christ at His judgment seat (Bema) (I John 2:28, 4:17; Rom. 14:10-12; 2 Cor. 5:10).

1. It will be comprehensive according to how Christ’s work was used as a foundation and a motive for the basis of reward (I Cor. 3:8-15) or lost reward.

2. It will involve the things good and bad done in our bodies and, therefore, may involve shame (when dealing with unconfessed sin) (2 Cor. 5:10).

THOUGHT: As we think about standing before Christ’s presence, what thoughts and feelings come to mind?

II. As believers abide in Christ and His teaching, they confidently sense Christ in them, their new birth alive in them, their adoption, and their future hope(I John 2:29 - 3:3).

A. We should not expect the world to know that we are internally alive and adopted by Yahweh because the world never recognized Christ for who He was and is (I John 3:1b).

B. We know that Christ rose from the dead with a new body and is with the Father. We have this hope and certainty also (I John 3:2,3; Luke 24: I Cor. 15:20-57 I Thes. 4:13-18).

I John 2:12-27

2009-05-01T12:14:00.000-07:00

THE HOLY SPIRIT IS YAHWEH’S RESOURCE AGAINST FALSE TEACHING

I John 2:12-27

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. The apostle John encourages and assures the believers of their faith and fellowship(I John 2:12-14).

A. John uses the writing style of repetition for the sake of bringing more emphasis.

1. He uses six parallel statements. By arranging them in the order he does, he brings out different encouraging statements.

2. Probably the little children, fathers, and young men are different physical ages and/or different levels of spiritual maturity.

3. There is a special emphasis on "young men type" believers to stay strong in the word and to overcome the evil one. This is probably in preparation for John’s warnings to follow.

4. All believers have had their sins forgiven (justification) and have known the Father (adoption). All "father type" believers have learned a deeper under- standing of Yahweh as the one "from the beginning."

B. John is about to warn his beloved children (in the faith) of two possible errors to watch out for that could disrupt their fellowship with Yahweh Father and Son.

II. John first warns the churches in Asia Minor of loving the world in the wrong way as some are teaching them to do (I John 2:15-17).

A. One wrong teaching at the time of this writing was Docetism. Docetism denied the reality of Jesus’ physical body because they believed that matter was not something that God could be a part of. In their world, spirit was of God but matter was not.

1. This view led them to teach an attitude that didn’t care about what went on in or around ones body. Extreme forms of this view gave their followers extreme license with regard to physical sins.

2. This view would pave the way for future Gnostic heresies in the second and third centuries. This view held that special knowledge was given to His followers in pursuit of the pure spirit of God.

B. The apostle John specifically warns his fellow believers against breaking fellowship with the Father by loving this world system.

1. He is referring to the evil world system controlled by Satan that will soon be passing away (John 16:8-11). He is not referring to the world of people(John 3:16) or to Yahweh’s creation (Gen. 1; John 17:24; Col. 1:15-19).

2. The things of this world system which are opposite of the Father’s will and love are broken down into three areas:

1) The lust of the flesh, 2) The lust of the eyes, and 3) The pride of life.

Some have likened these to the same types of temptations as Eve (Gen. 3:6) and Jesus (Luke 4:1-12).

Thought: In what ways are we tempted by this world system? How does caving in to the temptation break our fellowship with the Father?

III. John secondly warns the churches in Asia Minor of not letting themselves be led astray by false teachers and bad doctrine (I John 2:18-27).

A. Christ warned us of people that would be antichrists, "against Christ" teachings (Matt. 24:4,5). This was going to happen during the "last days" or "last hour" which was a time between Christ’s first coming and Christ’s second coming (Matt. 24:4-44; Acts 2:17-21).

B. John now warns the Christian community of the heretical teaching (the antichrist type) that denies that Jesus is the Christ. This teaching denied that the human man Jesus was also the Divine Anointed One or the Son of God (John 20:31; Rom. 1:1-4).

C. There was a teacher at the time of the apostle John whose name was Cerinthus. He taught that the Christ came in the form of a dove on the man Jesus at his baptism and withdrew again from Jesus before suffering on the cross. He taught that the Christ was pure spirit and therefore was unable to suffer or unable to inter- mingle with matter.

D. The believer has been given his own anointing because each believer, who believes and trusts in the truth about Jesus Christ, has been given the Holy Spirit (John 16:12-15; I Cor. 12:13). It is by remaining or abiding in the truth about Jesus which keeps a believer on the right track.

Thought: Do we have heretical teachers in our time which could lead believers away from true fellowship with Yahweh the Father and Son?

I John 1:5 - 2:11

2009-04-22T15:19:00.000-07:00

FELLOWSHIPPING WITH YAHWEH ORWALKING IN HIS LIGHT

I John 1:5 - 2:11

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. What moment by moment fellowship looks like in the life of a believer (I John 1:5 - 2:2).

A. Fellowship involves walking in the light which includes walking in the truth (I John 1:5-7).

1. God (Yahweh) is light.

a. The apostle John’s use of light comes from an understanding of David and Isaiah’s use of light (Ps. 27:1, 36:9; Isa. 8:19 - 9:7, 59:20 - 60:3; John 1:4,5; 8:12; 12:35).

b. The primary meaning of light in John’s writings is truth or revelational truth from Yahweh. Some secondary meanings can be splendor, glory, and moral purity.

2. In Yahweh our God, “darkness is not in Him - none” (Greek translation). He is not a mixture of light and darkness as some heretical groups assert.

3. A believer can be in or out of fellowship with His God Yahweh based on his/her walk in the light and/or walk in the truth (verses 6,7; 2 John 4; 3 John 3,4).

B. Believers still sin while living out their Christian lives in their mortal bodies (I John 1:8).

1. However, if believers keep “the truth in them” they will sin less. The apostle Paul would call this “walking in the Spirit” (Gal. 5:16) or “renewing the mind” (Rom. 12:2).

2. Some Christian groups have erred on this point.

C. Believers should regularly confess their sins and in so doing believe that their fellowship with Yahweh is fully restored (I John 1:9 - 2:2).

1. To confess in the Greek is “homologeo” which means to say the same thing. We acknowledge the same thing our Father Yahweh already knows.

2. Yahweh’s justice is completely satisfied (propitiated) by the sacrifice of His Son Jesus Christ. You do not need to add your own penance to it! Please don’t!

II. A life lived in moment by moment fellowship with Yahweh grows in deeper knowledge of God and mature love (I John 2:3-11).

A. Fellowship with Yahweh is demonstrated by being obedient to His word (vs 3-6).

1. Verse 3 should read, “And by these things (I John 1:5 - 2:2) we now know (present tense) that we have come to know (perfect tense) Him, if we keep His commands.” A perfect tense is a situation in the present which resulted from a past action.

2. Jesus taught His disciples, at the end of His three and a half years of ministry on earth, to teach new believers to obey and do His commands(John 14:21-24; Matt. 28:20).

B. Fellowship with Yahweh is demonstrated by loving our fellow Christians (vs 7-11).

1. The “old” command is the command Jesus already said and John has already written in his gospel found in John 13:34, 35.

2. The “new” command is the idea of living out the old command of “loving one another” in the daily lives of believers. Each time a believer loves with Christ’s love, it shows Yahweh’s Kingdom power in that life and witnesses His soon coming Kingdom on earth (Isa. 9:2; 2 Peter 2:19; I John 3:3).

I John 1:1-4

2009-04-08T17:51:00.000-07:00

THE PURPOSE OF I JOHN: How To Have Fellowship With Yahweh
I John 1:1-4

As taught by Dave Lindstrom

I. The author of I John is the apostle John.

A. I John 1:1-4; 4:6 shows that the author was an apostle.

1. An apostle had Jesus Christ’s authority (Matt. 10:1-4).
2. An apostle had been chosen to walk with and be with Jesus Christ (Acts 1:21,22; 9:4-6; Gal. 1:16-24).
3. An apostle was given the ability to see Yahweh do signs, wonders, and miracles through him (2 Cor. 12:12).

B. The literature of the letters of 1st, 2nd, 3rd John show a similar writing style to the Gospel of John and Revelation. This is known as internal evidence.

C. External sources from the early church as well as current scholarship have a very high certainty of John as the author of the Gospel of John, 1st, 2nd, 3rd John and Revelation.

D. The apostle John was very close to Jesus and part of His inner circle (see Bible Atlas facts).

THOUGHT: How do we determine which teachers or preachers to give the most credibility to?

II. The two plausible dates for the writing of I John seem to be either 64-65 AD or 90-95 AD.

A. One scenario: John took care of Mary (Jesus’ mother) after 33 AD where the apostles headquartered in Jerusalem. He might have become an evangelist-church planter in Asia minor setting up his missionary headquarters in Ephesus. He might have written the Gospel of John at Ephesus (as per Ireneus) between 48-52 AD to strengthen the seven churches when he moved back to Jerusalem. He participated in the apostle Paul’s concordat of missionary division around 48 AD (Gal. 2:1-10). At the time of the writing of I John, he seems to be back in Jerusalem with other apostles (I John 2:19). Therefore, a date of 64-65 AD, before the Jewish war of 66 AD, the start of his exile to Patmos, the writing of Revelation, and the destruction of the Jewish Temple in 70 AD, seems to be a probable date.

B. Another scenario: After Jerusalem is destroyed in 70 AD, John moves to Ephesus and continues his ministry for another 20 years in Asia Minor. He writes the Gospel of John, 1st, 2nd, 3rd John around 90 AD. He is exiled to Patmos and writes Revelation around 95 AD.

C. The direction you go depends some on your interpretation of Rev. 17:9-11 and trying to trace the steps of John with a small amount of historical record.

III. The purpose of I John is to promote fellowship with Yahweh (Father and Son) through abiding in the truth as given by the apostles (I John 1:1-4). This will discredit false teaching which undermines fellowship and true life.

A. The purpose of the Gospel of John is for people to believe that Jesus is the Christ (Messiah) and the Son of God (the second person of the Trinity). He goes on to say that by believing you may have “life in His name.” (John 20:31).

B. The purpose of I John is different from the Gospel of John and assumes belief. It is written as a circular letter (probably originally to the seven churches of Asia minor and possibly to their leadership) to be read publicly, copied by the churches, and delivered by Demetrius (3 John 12).

C. Jesus Christ was and is the very eternal life of God manifested to us in human form. Believers in Jesus are given true life in Christ and are now persuaded to remain in the source of eternal life which is Christ’s true teaching (I John 1:1,2).

D. Christ’s true teaching, which is revealed truth as delivered by the apostles, keeps a believer in fellowship (koinonia - sharing in common) with Yahweh and the apostles (I John 1:3,4).

THOUGHT: What things can disrupt a believers fellowship with Yahweh?

Get Your "Geek" On!

2009-02-25T21:41:00.000-08:00

Hey Everybody!

Welcome to the geekiest Bible blog on the web! It's my pleasure to introduce the digital world to my friend and Bible study mentor, Dave Lindstrom. Although right now there are no plans for him to become a regular poster on this blog, I will be posting many of his past study notes on a regular basis and will continue to update the blog with new notes weekly when he resumes teaching his Bible class in a few months.

Meantime, bookmark this page and keep checking back for some great material that will get you into your Bibles in ways you've never experienced before!