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Thoughts on the readings for February 17th (Exodus 28, Psalms 83, 84, Mark 13) Feb 16, 2025

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Exodus 28 describes the clothing of the priests and of the High priest. The clothing of Aaron and his four sons was, verse 2, for glory and for beauty since they were the LORD’s representatives. These garments were skilfully embroidered by Aholiab, whose name means “from the Father’s tent”. John Thomas wrote about these clothes one and a half centuries ago saying, that what the High Priest wore on his person spoke of the inwrought character of the Lord Jesus Christ. Verse 4 describes the clothing common to all five men – a white turban; a linen robe; a golden coloured sash; and a coat of linen of checkered work appearance woven throughout with threads of blue, purple, scarlet and gold. The scarlet spoke of his lowly sin prone human condition. The blue talked of him being motivated, as the Father’s only begotten Son, by the Word of God which permeated his thinking. The purple, being a mixture of red and blue, represents royalty. The gold was a token of tried and precious faith. The High Priest had two additional items attached to these garments – in the centre of his turban was a golden plate, which carried the engraved inscription, “Holiness to Yahweh” – speaking of the purpose of the High Priest’s life. The second item was a golden breastplate with 12 compartments each one containing a rare and precious gemstone. And upon each of the gemstones was an engraving of each of the twelve tribes of Israel. The breastplate covered Aaron’s heart. We sing a hymn that says, “the name of all the saints he bares, engraven on his heart”. (see verse 29). These, likewise, were a reminder of the High Priest’s role in representing his people when he approached his God. Verses 15-22 tell of the type of stones (compare the picture presented in Revelation 21); and how they were arranged. The breastplate was attached to two golden rings – one on each shoulder – and tied in place by a blue line lace. This blue lace spoke of the heavenly calling. Verse 30 tells us that the Urim and Thummim were placed within the breastplate; presumably in the back of it for the front was filled with glistening gemstones. Urim means “lights” and Thummim (“fires”, or “perfections”). The Urim spoke of the perfection that was to be found in all of these 12 stones together – every member of the ecclesia of God is an essential part. The Thummim were placed in the back of the breastplate. These may have been a white stone, signifying acceptance (see Revelation 2 verses 17,; 3 verse 12); and a black stone for an unfavourable judgment. (As an aside, which doesn’t relate to the clothing of the High Priest, the following Is submitted. The lot from the ephod is spoken of in the first book of Samuel several times. In the New Testament decisions by means of the casting of lots is referred to on a few occasions in the Acts of the Apostles – including for the replacement of Judas Iscariot in chapter 1). On the hem, or fringe (Hebrew “wing”, or “extremity”) of Aaron’s robe was an embroidery of blue, purple and scarlet. And dangling from the bottom of that garment were alternating golden bells and pomegranates. The pomegranate speaks of the ecclesia: a multitude (of seeds), united in the blood of Christ, by the blood of the Covenant (the red juice) in One (fruit). And the bell of the gospel message, which when heard would tell of the Lord’s life and its significance in gaining the victory over sin, saving the world, and having righteousness and eternal life gained by faithful believers. These were there, so the record says of the High Priest, “that he die not”. Later Leviticus tells of the High Priest elect being struck dead by God. Paul in writing to the Romans comments on the significance of the bell
(Romans 10 verses14-18). Exodus 40 finishes by repeating that these clothes were “for glory and beauty”.

Thought for February 16th. ‘Love the Lord your God with all your soul, mind and strength…’ Feb 16, 2025

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Can we know some sayings of Jesus too well? It is possible to get to know some things so well that we cease to let them dwell in our thoughts very much – moving on to what we may see as more profound matters. We wonder who the unnamed scribe was who came to Jesus – having heard his fellow scribes were “disputing with one another” after Jesus “answered them well” [Mark 12 v.28] as we read today. We would like to imagine that he became a disciple – sooner or later.

This scribe asks, “Which commandment is the most important of all?” Jesus says it is, “Here O Israel; The Lord our God, the Lord is one”[v.29]. But then he states the most important principle in all the Scriptures, “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and will all your mind and with all your strength.” Draw a breath – and read that again – slowly.

Our world is full of knowledge – of knowing a massive array of facts and information- but they are often far from wise in the way they use that knowledge. How much real love – as Jesus defines it – is there in our world?

Now Jesus most significantly adds a sort of codicil to that first commandment which was not in the commandments given at Sinai that we read last week in Exodus 20. Jesus says, “The second is this; ‘You shall love your neighbour as yourself.’ ‘ [v.31]

This provokes a comment by this scribe who says, “You are right teacher” and he restates what Jesus has said about loving God “with all the heart and with all the understanding and with all the strength” [v.33] and to “love one’s neighbour as oneself” [v.33] is of far more value, says the scribe, than offering sacrifices.

Of course there is a reference to the need to love your neighbour ‘buried’ in Leviticus 19 v.18. Let us recall how James, in his epistle challenges believers, “If you really fulfil the royal law according to the Scripture, ‘You shall love your neighbour as yourself, you are doing well” [2 v.8] What a difference that “royal law” would make to this world – but you cannot “command” love.

Jesus commends this scribes’ wise answer and tells him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God” [v.34] We must each ask ourselves, ‘Would be say the same to me?’ In searching our hearts to imagine the answer we need to ask, is my knowledge of God only an intellectual one? If we really ‘know’ God then our names are recorded in his book of life and the words of John 17 v.3 will resonate in our minds.

Thoughts on the readings for February 16th (Exodus 27, Psalms 81, 82, Mark 12). Feb 15, 2025

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Exodus 27 describes the first item of furniture encountered by the worshippers upon entering the courtyard of the Tabernacle. It is the bronze altar on which the sacrifices are placed. This teaches us that the first need of anyone who wants salvation is for the LORD to provide a redemptive sacrifice. It was made of bronze speaking of purified flesh – our Lord Jesus Christ offered himself, as a sinless man. The altar was made from acacia wood and overlaid with bronze. Its details, dimensions and accessories are described in verses 1-8. The description finishes with a reminder that its pattern spoke of Christ and was shown to Moses in Mount Sinai (Hebrews 13:10-15). The next eleven verses describe the curtains which were hung at the perimeter of the courtyard. Their dimensions, bases and method of attachment are given. These were of fine linen speaking of the righteous deeds of the believers, who surround their Lord Jesus Christ (see Revelation 19:8). The gate of the courtyard resembled the entrance of the Holy Place – linen embroidered with blue, purple, scarlet and golden threads. Verses 20 to the chapter’s end describe the faithful labours of God’s people in obtaining the pure golden olive oil for the Lampstand within the Holy Place. Aaron and his sons, the priests, were required to tend to the supplying of the oil and the tending to the wicks day and night. In the house of the LORD the light of the Word must continually burn brightly.

The Enigma of Melchizedek #3 'Melchizedek in the Prophets' Ron Kidd Feb 15, 2025

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A @Christadelphians Video: SummaryThis presentation explores the concept of Melchizedek and its appearance in the prophetic writings, particularly in the context of the promises made to David and the work of the Lord Jesus Christ.Highlights🔍 The presentation discusses the significance of the phrase "the man who was raised up on high" in the last words of David, and how it refers to the Redeemer, the possessor of Heaven and Earth. 🔍 The presentation examines the use of the word "Zac" (to bud or spring forth) in various biblical passages, such as Psalm 132, Isaiah 42-43, and Jeremiah 23, and how it relates to the emergence of the righteous branch and the new creation in Christ Jesus. 🔍 The presentation explores the role of Joshua the high priest as a type of the Lord Jesus Christ, representing the nation of Israel and the removal of their iniquity through the work of the righteous branch. 🔍 The presentation discusses the significance of the Levitical priesthood and the covenant of peace made with Phinehas, and how this relates to the sons of Zadok who will minister in the Kingdom.KeywordsMelchizedekProphetsRighteousness

Moral Imperatives of God's Atonement #5 The Great News: Made the Righteousness of God in him Part 1 Feb 15, 2025

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A @Christadelphians Video: The Atonement is one of the most amazing themes of the Bible, for it is "the power of God unto salvation". God reveals His wisdom and love for us in providing the Lord Jesus Christ who would not only uphold His righteousness, but be the basis for our forgiveness and redemption. Yet all of this must be more than just a set of principles - rather it must compel us as believers to develop the character and spirit of our Father. In a series of 8 studies, we look at four frames to discover the moral imperatives of the Atonement - The Bad News, The Good News, The Great News and the Amazing News. Study 5 - The Great News: Made the Righteousness of God in him (Part 1). Christ's sacrifice declared God to be right, on which God not only forgives, but makes us righteousness in him by faith. Being accounted righteous to the great news, preached even to Abraham. SummaryThe video discusses the moral imperatives of God's atonement, emphasizing that through Christ, believers are made righteous in God's sight.Highlights

📖 God's Love: The foundation of atonement springs from the Father's love.
🥇 Righteousness Declared: The sacrifice of Christ declares God's righteousness.
✝️ Representative Sacrifice: Jesus' death appropriately connects Him to humanity's sin.
🔄 Justification: God justifies believers, making them righteous through faith.
🌟 Great News: Not only are sins forgiven, but believers are also made righteous in Christ.
📜 Faith's Role: Abraham's faith exemplifies how belief leads to righteousness.
🎁 Gift of Righteousness: God extends His righteousness to those who believe, not through works.

❤️ **God's Love as Foundation**: The atonement process begins with the love of the Father, illustrating His desire to reconcile humanity with Himself. This foundational love informs all aspects of the atonement.
⚖️ **Declaration of Righteousness**: The sacrifice of Christ not only demonstrates God's righteousness but also affirms His role as a justifier of the ungodly, showcasing His mercy and justice simultaneously.
🛡️ **Representative Role of Christ**: By partaking in humanity's nature, Jesus embodies a representative sacrifice, allowing Him to bear the consequences of sin while remaining sinless.
🔑 **Justification Through Faith**: Believers are justified and considered righteous in God's sight, not by their works, but through faith in Christ's redemptive work, emphasizing grace over law.
🌍 **Transformation into Righteousness**: The "great news" of the Gospel emphasizes that forgiveness is coupled with a transformation, making believers righteous in God's eyes, a profound shift in identity.
🌌 **Abraham's Faith as Example**: The example of Abraham illustrates that faith in God's promises leads to righteousness, reinforcing the importance of belief in the process of salvation.
🎉 **Gift of Righteousness**: God's righteousness is a gift bestowed upon believers, enabling them to stand justified before Him, reinforcing that salvation is by grace through faith.

Key Insights

The Enigma of Melchizedek #2 'I will raise up a faithful Priest' Ron Kidd Feb 14, 2025

Show notes

A @Christadelphians Video: SummaryThis presentation explores the significance of Melchizedek and his connection to the Psalms, particularly Psalm 110, which is extensively referenced in the New Testament. It delves into the historical context of the priesthood during the time of Eli and the rise of King David, highlighting the importance of the Tabernacle and the establishment of Zion as the dwelling place of God. The presentation also discusses the typological role of David as a precursor to the Messiah, the faithful priest who would build a sure house and walk before the anointed forever.Highlights🌍 Melchizedek was the King of Salem, which is believed to be an abbreviated form of Jerusalem. 🏰 The "King's Dale" mentioned in Genesis 14 is likely the location where Absalom's pillar was erected, just outside of Jerusalem. 🔍 The terms "trained" and "born in his house" in Genesis 14 suggest that Abraham was dedicated to building a new household and preparing his servants to carry on his legacy. 🗣️ Psalm 110 is directly quoted in the Book of Hebrews seven times and indirectly quoted five times, highlighting its significance in the New Testament. ⚔️ Psalm 110 connects to the events in Genesis 14, with references to the king-priest, the destruction of enemies, and the household of the covenant. 👑 The background of Psalm 110 is linked to the transition from the priesthood of Eli to the reign of King David, a time when the priesthood and kingship were in disarray. 🙏 David's role in bringing the Ark to Zion and establishing a new Tabernacle there is seen as a typological foreshadowing of the Messiah's work.KeywordsMelchizedekPriesthoodKing David00:00 - IntroductionThe video discusses the significance of Melchizedek and his connection to Jerusalem, also known as Salem.The speaker examines the biblical references to Melchizedek, including his role as a king and priest, and how this is reflected in Psalm 110.The background and context of Psalm 110 are explored, particularly in relation to the priesthood during the time of Eli and the kingship under Saul and David.19:08 - Priesthood in the Days of EliThe priesthood was in a poor state during the time of Eli, with his sons Hophni and Phinehas being wicked and dishonouring God.Eli failed to restrain his sons, and God pronounced judgment on the house of Eli and the priesthood.God promised to raise up a faithful priest who would do according to His heart and mind, and build a sure house.

Thoughts on the readings for February 15th (Exodus 26, Psalms 79, 80, Mark 11) Feb 14, 2025

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Exodus 25 tells us of the Tabernacle itself. Verses 1-14 describe the curtains which served as the roof of the Tabernacle. Eleven curtains made of linen and embroidered with golden, blue and scarlet threads woven through the linen in a cherubic pattern. These would have been visible to the priests, who served in the Holy Place; and to the High Priest on the Day of Atonement, the one day each year when he entered the Most Holy Place. Three other layers covered the linen – a layer of goats hair dyed scarlet; a layer of rams’ skins; and finally, on top of these a waterproof layer of what has been translated as, badgers’ skins in the KJV; and was probably dugong skins. As well as forming the roof they covered the boards of acacia wood (themselves covered with beaten gold plates); at the sides and back end of the building, where the Most Holy Place was situated. The dugong covering would be seen by the priests in the courtyard and by the worshippers, who had brought their offerings. Verses 15-30 describe the acacia boards that formed the building. Like the covering curtains these were on both sides and at the rear of the structure. They were fastened to each other by bars which passed through coupling rings providing a unity for the frame and giving it rigidity and stability. It speaks of the role of the ecclesia, whereby believers support one another and are united in their goals. They were anchored in the ground by silver sockets – speaking of our hope is fixed and grounded by the redemptive work achieved in our Lord Jesus Christ. Verses 31-33 describe the veil, which separated the Most Holy Place from the zHoly Place. Again the veil, – which was linen and interwoven with threads of blue, purple, scarlet and gold – spoke of the work of Christ, in whom we can draw near to God. The writer to the Hebrews tells us that it spoke of the nature of Jesus, through which the divine characteristics inherited from his Father were woven (see Hebrews 9 verses 19-23). At the precise time Jesus died on the stake the veil in Herod’s temple was torn from top to bottom (Matthew 27 verse 51). This tearing of the temple curtain spoke of the removal of the sacrificial code of the Mosaic Law; and the bringing in of a better hope for faithful believers. Verses 34-35 provides a brief overview of some of the items of furniture within the Holy and Most Holy Places. The last verses of this chapter tells us of the entrance curtains through which the Tabernacle was entered. It was a linen screen of embroidered needlework with several similarities to the inner veil. It spoke of Christ, who is the door, or way of approaching the Father (John 10:1-6; 14:6).

Thought for February 14th. “THEY FLATTERED HIM …” Feb 14, 2025

Show notes

Can we “flatter” God? Human flattery emerges out of unhealthy attitudes of mind to achieve a fleshly purpose! There are many meaningful lessons to be gleaned from today’s Psalm 78. It surveys the whole history of God’s nation and the good – and not so good – indeed the bad – in their relationship with their God. What is a relationship with God? That’s a question we each need to answer.
The Psalmist draws most of his lessons from their experiences in the wilderness under Moses. Overwhelming evidence had been given to the people – in the way of visual experiences of God in action. Jesus said, “Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required ….” [Luke 12 v.48]
Up to verse 16 the Psalmist makes a summary of the physical evidence they had witnessed of their God in action; of the plagues in Egypt and their exemption from all but the first three; the dramatic Passover night, the drama afterwards and the parting of the waters so they crossed on dry land and then witnessed the drowning of the Egyptians. Then came the provision of water and now, says the Psalmist, “the bread of angels … in abundance” [v.25] and “winged birds … and they ate and were well filled” [v.27,29]
At this point “the anger of God rose against them … they sought him; they repented and sought God earnestly” [v.31, 34] But what is their frame of mind as they express repentance and are seeking God? Were they motivated by a sense of love for God? Now to love someone in a genuine way one needs to be in a heartfelt and abiding relationship with them, so what was now the nature of their attitude toward God?
Verses 36 & 37 tell us, “They flattered him with their mouths; they lied to him with their tongues. Their heart was not steadfast toward him; they were not faithful to his covenant.” So what did God do as a result? Humanly, we would have expected a rejection of them – or at least some form of punishment. But no! The next verse says, “Yet he, being compassionate, atoned for their iniquity and did not destroy them; he restrained his anger often …”
This is the message in the New Testament – to those in the wilderness of this world. God’s all-seeing spirit surrounds us – as it did them in the wilderness. Paul told the Ephesians to “put off your old self … (it) is corrupt through deceitful desires ..” [4 v.22] Deceitful desires among other things use flattery to achieve deceitful purposes. Paul next says, “and be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God … in true righteousness and holiness.” What challenging thoughts this provokes in our minds. In what way can our “new self” be “in the likeness of God?” This requires the deepest meditation – and the most earnest prayer.

Moral Imperatives of God's Atonement #4 'The Good News - God Declared to be right' Part 2 Feb 14, 2025

Show notes

A @Christadelphians Video: The Atonement is one of the most amazing themes of the Bible, for it is "the power of God unto salvation". God reveals His wisdom and love for us in providing the Lord Jesus Christ who would not only uphold His righteousness, but be the basis for our forgiveness and redemption. Yet all of this must be more than just a set of principles - rather it must compel us as believers to develop the character and spirit of our Father. In a series of 8 studies, we look at four frames to discover the moral imperatives of the Atonement - The Bad News, The Good News, The Great News and the Amazing News. Study 4 - The Good News: God declared to be Right (Part 2). Christ came in our nature to be the representative sacrifice, in which God's righteousness would be manifest, showing that the true meaning of sacrifice. On this basis, God could be the justifier of those who believe. SummaryGod's atonement underscores His righteousness and provides a path for sinners to attain forgiveness and redemption through Christ's sacrifice.#Highlight s

🙏 God's Righteousness: His methods uphold justice while offering salvation.
🐑 Sacrificial Significance: Christ's sacrifice fulfills the law and justifies humanity.
📜 Romans 3: Key principles of justification and righteousness are outlined.
✝️ Faith's Role: Belief in Christ's sacrifice is essential for forgiveness.
🔄 Moral Imperatives: Our actions must reflect God's righteousness in our lives.
💖 Reconciliation: Forgiving others mirrors God's love and grace towards us.
🌟 Future Hope: The atonement leads to eternal life and reconciliation with God.

⚖️ **God's Justice and Mercy**: The balance of God's justice in condemning sin while providing mercy through Christ's sacrifice illustrates His character. This duality emphasizes the importance of acknowledging sin while seeking forgiveness.
✨ **The Importance of Faith**: Faith is central to understanding atonement; it is through belief that one accesses the grace provided by Christ’s sacrifice, emphasizing the personal relationship between the believer and God.
🌱 **Living Righteously**: Acknowledging God's righteousness requires believers to manifest this in their lives, demonstrating moral integrity and a commitment to truth in daily interactions.
🤝 **Forgiveness as a Reflection of God’s Love**: Just as God forgives us, we are called to forgive others, highlighting the communal aspect of faith and the impact of divine grace on interpersonal relationships.
🌄 **Hope in Christ’s Resurrection**: The resurrection not only proves Christ's victory over sin but also assures believers of their own resurrection, reinforcing the transformative power of faith in the believer's life.
📖 **Scriptural Foundation**: The teachings in Romans and other scriptures provide a framework for understanding atonement, emphasizing the necessity of scripture in guiding moral and spiritual truths.
🔗 **Continuity of God's Plan**: The narrative from Genesis to the New Testament shows a consistent theme of redemption, illustrating God's enduring commitment to restoring humanity through Christ.

Key Insights

The Enigma of Melchizedek #1 'Priest of the Most High God' Ron Kidd Feb 13, 2025

Show notes

A @Christadelphians Video: SummaryThis presentation explores the biblical figure of Melchizedek, who appears suddenly in Genesis 14 and is later referenced in the New Testament, particularly in the book of Hebrews. The presenter discusses the significance of Melchizedek's role as a priest of the Most High God and how he is connected to the Lord Jesus Christ and the process of reconciliation between God and humanity.Highlights🌟 Melchizedek is a mysterious biblical figure who is mentioned only a few times in the Old and New Testaments, yet his role is seen as significant in understanding the work of the Lord Jesus Christ. 🌍 The presentation explores the context of Genesis 14, where Melchizedek appears, and how it is connected to the expansionism of the kingdom of men and the role of Abraham in God's plan of redemption. 🍞 Melchizedek's offering of bread and wine to Abraham is seen as a symbol of the new covenant and the forgiveness of sins, as well as a means of fellowship with God. 🕊️ The presentation emphasizes the importance of the principles of righteousness and peace, which are associated with Melchizedek and the work of the Lord Jesus Christ. 💪 Abraham's response to Melchizedek and the king of Sodom is seen as a model for how believers should choose to align themselves with God's plan of redemption, rather than the riches and temptations of the world.KeywordsMelchizedekRedemptionRighteousness and peace00:00 - introMelchizedek is a mysterious biblical figure who appears suddenly in Genesis 14 and disappears just as quickly.He is mentioned only a few times in the Old Testament and the New Testament, but the Apostle Paul says there is much to be said about him that is difficult to explain.The video suggests that Melchizedek was introduced to teach us about the Lord Jesus Christ and the work of God through His Son.01:04 - Melchizedek's Appearance...Melchizedek appears in the context of the expansion of the promises made to Abraham, which are further developed in later chapters.There are various theories about who Melchizedek was, but the scripture emphasises what he represents rather than his identity as an individual.Melchizedek is described as the "king of righteousness" and the "king of peace", which the Apostle Paul interprets as pertaining to another, namely the Lord Jesus Christ.13:25 - Melchizedek and the Day of ChristThe video suggests that Melchizedek's appearance points forward to the Day of Christ, the time of His second coming and manifestation in judgment.Abraham's encounter with Melchizedek is seen as a picture of the future glory of the Lord's Day, before the process leading up to it is revealed.The parallels drawn between Melchizedek and the prophecies regarding the return of Christ indicate that Melchizedek's work will find its ultimate fulfilment in the time of Christ's manifestation.16:22 - Melchizedek's SignificanceMelchizedek is presented as the "priest of the most high God" and the "possessor of heaven and earth", echoing the creation account in Genesis.His role is to teach Abraham about the principles of righteousness and peace, which are essential for the restoration of the relationship between God and His creation.The offering of bread and wine by Melchizedek to Abraham is seen as a token of the forgiveness of sins and the fellowship that is to be restored through the work of the Lord Jesus Christ.21.24 - Abraham's ChoiceAbraham is faced with a choice between the riches offered by the king of Sodom and the simplicity of the truth represented by Melchizedek.His decision to reject the king of Sodom and align himself with Melchizedek sets the tone for future generations, as we are called to make similar choices in our lives.The video emphasises that the work of Melchizedek is to be completed at the return of the Lord Jesus Christ, when the consummation of God's purpose will be revealed.

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