To praise God is to esteem and regard Him as the almighty omnipotent being that He is, bringing glory to the throne in the presence of angels and in the presence of men. From early accounts in the Bible, men and women of God praised and worshiped in a variety of ways and with all their hearts, souls, and minds. When mankind reflects upon the blessings, gifts, and judgements of God, one can not help but be ushered into a state of gratitude that evokes praising the Lord. Many denominations approach worship in different and very distinct ways, and when we take a close look at scripture and the commandments about worshiping God Almighty, we find that there is a broad range of activities that are associated with exalting our Maker. From the first time worshiping is associated with sacrifice to the grand songs sung by choirs of angels at the victory of Christ, the Bible has much to teach us about living a life that expresses the gratitude that God so richly deserves.
In the book of Genesis, one of the most well-known stories of the Old Testament is recorded. In chapter twenty-two we find that Abraham was asked to sacrifice his son, Isaac. After Abraham had journeyed three days, the Lord showed Abraham the place to build an altar and offer Isaac as a burnt offering. At this point Abraham tells the servant men with him to stay put and that he and Isaac were going over yonder to worship the Lord. As this familiar story goes, God provided a ram as a substitute sacrifice and Isaac's life was spared. Christians understand that this story is a foretelling of the sacrifice of Christ, but it is also a wonderful demonstration of how sacrifice equates to worshiping. Our Lord considers it worshipful when we offer up our most prized possessions. To discover more about what the Bible has to say about praising and worshiping God, visit these Bible resources.
Throughout much of the Old Testament we find that sacrifice was a intricate part of worshiping. But, we also find that singing and dancing before the Lord were used as means of praising. The Psalms are full of examples and urgent pleas for the people of God to lift up holy hands and to sing to the Lord. We see that worshiping God is not only giving up the things that have first place in our hearts, but worshiping God is also having and demonstrating a joyous heart and attitude. "Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the trimbrel and the harp. For the Lord taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation." (Psalm 149:3-4). Scripture compels us to praise God among the people and to also sing praises to him when we are alone in our beds. "Let the saints be joyful in glory: let them sing aloud upon their beds." (Psalm 149:5)
Moving into the New Testament, we find that exalting the name of the Lord takes on a new tone. Jesus Christ himself addressed worshiping with an adulteress woman at a well. The woman, confused by many traditions and segregation, asked Jesus about proper worship protocol, believing that he was a prophet. Jesus answers the woman with a profound truth. "But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him." (John 4:23) And, in the book of Hebrews, the writer teaches that praising God is now an ongoing activity, not one reserved for Sunday mornings before an altar. "By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name." (Hebrews 13:15) Because the Spirit of God lives in believers, each is to live in a constant state of praising the Lord for all that is given, for all that is taught, and for every circumstance because we know that all things work to the good of those who are called.
Because the Spirit of God lives within us, we may partake in praising and worshiping in quiet, reflective devotions or in grand corporate praise services. "What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's." (1 Corinthians 6:19) The first step to discovering the type of joyful activity that suits the unique soul is to discover an attitude of gratitude. Just as Abraham built an altar as a grateful expression after receiving the promise of God, so we should have a way of expressing our thankfulness to the Lord for the many promises that He has made to each and every one of us.
For more information: http://www.christianet.com/bibleverses
Friday, August 28, 2009
Monday, August 10, 2009
Scripture Verses For Encouragement
Those who look to Scripture verses for encouragement often first turn to either the Psalms or the Proverbs. These two Old Testament books are so popular that most New Testaments include both of them. The Psalms are a collection of 150 Hebrew poems used as prayers and hymns. Though King David, the shepherd boy who killed Goliath, wrote almost half the Psalms, about a third of them were written by anonymous authors. Other writers include Solomon, the sons of Korah, and the Levite singers Asaph, Heman, and Ethan, Some scholars believe Psalm 90 was written by Moses and that the prophet Ezra may also have written a couple of the chapters. If this is so, the earliest psalm was written during the time of the Exodus and the latest psalms were written about a thousand years later, after the long Babylonian exile in the mid-fifth century B.C. The vast majority of the inspirational Bible verses found in Proverbs were collected and recorded by King Solomon, the son of David and Bathsheba. After Solomon became king, he prayed, "'Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad, for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?' And the speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing" (1 Kings 3: 9-10). God was so pleased that Solomon asked for wisdom and discernment, that He gave the king peace and prosperity during his reign.
With such a wide range of authorship and variety of themes, it's understandable why even people who know little else about the Bible are familiar with Psalms and Proverbs. Psalm 23 is probably the most popular psalm, giving comfort to the weary and downhearted who seek rest and guidance from a protective Shepherd. The first eighteen verses of Psalm 139 are life-affirming as David rejoices in God's intimate creative power and complete knowledge of a person's innermost thoughts. Most Christian women both embrace and get irritated at the ideal woman described in Proverbs 31. This remarkable lady is an incredible role model who demonstrated intelligence, initiative, compassion, and financial savvy. Little wonder that her husband and children put her on a pedestal. Other sections of Proverbs praise the importance of wisdom and the dangers of folly. They address daily issues, including money issues, getting along with the neighbors, gossip and discretion, the virtue of hard work and the consequences of laziness. These inspirational Bible verses provide a helpful guideline for personal growth. Since there are thirty-one chapters in Proverbs, many Christians make it a daily habit to read a chapter every day, corresponding to the date. For example, Proverbs 1 is read on the first day of the month and so on. This repetition over a period of time makes it easier to remember Scripture verses for encouragement when they are needed.
Other Old Testament passages tell about historical people and events that teach important, and difficult, life lessons. We sympathize with Joseph's brothers when they are jealous of their father's attention to his favorite child, but we also cringe in horror when the ten young men sell Joseph into slavery and then tell their father that he was killed by a wild animal. Seeing God's providence work itself out through the events of Joseph's life as he becomes second-in-command only to Pharaoh, we trust that God is with us through our family trials. Joseph told his brothers that what they meant for evil, God meant for good "to save much people alive" (Genesis 50:20). The prophet Jeremiah told the Israelites that God's plans for them were for peace, not evil, and that those who search for God with all their hearts would find Him (Jeremiah 29: 11-13). These inspirational Bible verses are favorites for memorization.
Of course, the New Testament also has numerous Scripture verses for encouragement during times of sorrow and trial. Through the Gospel accounts, we see that the darkest moment in history for those who followed Jesus, the crucifixion, was followed only three days later by exuberant rejoicing when He appeared to them. Again and again throughout the New Testament epistles, the apostle Paul encourages Christians to find contentment in their relationship with Christ, to understand that steadfastness through trials will be rewarded by eternal fellowship. One of the most popular is Paul promise that "all things work together for good to them that love God" (Romans 8:28). The apostle specifically wrote to Titus and the young Timothy, offering encouragement to them in their ministries. In the book of Revelation, the apostle John promises that a time will come when there will be no more tears, no death, no pain (Revelation 21:4). The book of James is much-loved for its practical applications for Christian living. Who has not been convicted by James' speech on the evils of the tongue, yet encouraged by his admission that we all stumble (James 3:2)?
Those who become familiar with, and even memorize, inspirational Bible verses equip themselves with the resources that are needed during discouraging situations and hard times. Perhaps even more important, these people can offer comfort and compassion to others when they pass along relevant and uplifting passages. This is so easy when internet sites exist that offer the capability to email a thoughtful, Biblical message. The wisdom literature found in Psalms and Proverbs, the lives and events of historical people, the New Testament teachings -- all these hold Scripture verses for encouragement to those who need a word of hope.
For more information: http://www.christianet.com/biblestudy
With such a wide range of authorship and variety of themes, it's understandable why even people who know little else about the Bible are familiar with Psalms and Proverbs. Psalm 23 is probably the most popular psalm, giving comfort to the weary and downhearted who seek rest and guidance from a protective Shepherd. The first eighteen verses of Psalm 139 are life-affirming as David rejoices in God's intimate creative power and complete knowledge of a person's innermost thoughts. Most Christian women both embrace and get irritated at the ideal woman described in Proverbs 31. This remarkable lady is an incredible role model who demonstrated intelligence, initiative, compassion, and financial savvy. Little wonder that her husband and children put her on a pedestal. Other sections of Proverbs praise the importance of wisdom and the dangers of folly. They address daily issues, including money issues, getting along with the neighbors, gossip and discretion, the virtue of hard work and the consequences of laziness. These inspirational Bible verses provide a helpful guideline for personal growth. Since there are thirty-one chapters in Proverbs, many Christians make it a daily habit to read a chapter every day, corresponding to the date. For example, Proverbs 1 is read on the first day of the month and so on. This repetition over a period of time makes it easier to remember Scripture verses for encouragement when they are needed.
Other Old Testament passages tell about historical people and events that teach important, and difficult, life lessons. We sympathize with Joseph's brothers when they are jealous of their father's attention to his favorite child, but we also cringe in horror when the ten young men sell Joseph into slavery and then tell their father that he was killed by a wild animal. Seeing God's providence work itself out through the events of Joseph's life as he becomes second-in-command only to Pharaoh, we trust that God is with us through our family trials. Joseph told his brothers that what they meant for evil, God meant for good "to save much people alive" (Genesis 50:20). The prophet Jeremiah told the Israelites that God's plans for them were for peace, not evil, and that those who search for God with all their hearts would find Him (Jeremiah 29: 11-13). These inspirational Bible verses are favorites for memorization.
Of course, the New Testament also has numerous Scripture verses for encouragement during times of sorrow and trial. Through the Gospel accounts, we see that the darkest moment in history for those who followed Jesus, the crucifixion, was followed only three days later by exuberant rejoicing when He appeared to them. Again and again throughout the New Testament epistles, the apostle Paul encourages Christians to find contentment in their relationship with Christ, to understand that steadfastness through trials will be rewarded by eternal fellowship. One of the most popular is Paul promise that "all things work together for good to them that love God" (Romans 8:28). The apostle specifically wrote to Titus and the young Timothy, offering encouragement to them in their ministries. In the book of Revelation, the apostle John promises that a time will come when there will be no more tears, no death, no pain (Revelation 21:4). The book of James is much-loved for its practical applications for Christian living. Who has not been convicted by James' speech on the evils of the tongue, yet encouraged by his admission that we all stumble (James 3:2)?
Those who become familiar with, and even memorize, inspirational Bible verses equip themselves with the resources that are needed during discouraging situations and hard times. Perhaps even more important, these people can offer comfort and compassion to others when they pass along relevant and uplifting passages. This is so easy when internet sites exist that offer the capability to email a thoughtful, Biblical message. The wisdom literature found in Psalms and Proverbs, the lives and events of historical people, the New Testament teachings -- all these hold Scripture verses for encouragement to those who need a word of hope.
For more information: http://www.christianet.com/biblestudy
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Evidence of Creation
There is evidence of creation throughout our world today, and anyone interested in finding scientific support for creationism can easily do so with the many valuable resources that are available. The debate of a created world verses an evolved one has been around for many years, but as scientific methods advance, even the non-believing community is recognizing that many of the theories revolving around evolution do not pan out. Honestly there is little substantial scientific proof that supports evolution, making it difficult to understand how this is the chosen theory taught to school children every day. With a thorough study of Scripture, one can find the answers to many questions about what has happened throughout the history of man and his effects on the created order. And, faced with the question of whether or not the Bible is full of interesting stories or is actually the Word of God, one will have to come to the conclusion that he either believes the Bible in its entirety or that he does not. Accepting the Bible in part is not an option, for the Bible claims to be written under the authority of God.
No one can argue that there are many mysteries surrounding the beginnings of the world and mankind. While the Bible explains to us how the world came into being and how man was originally formed, man's finite wisdom does not allow him to grasp the ability of it all. God certainly enlightens man into his methods, but man will never completely understand God's omnipotent power in creationism. There is a call to trust in what God tells us and to trust that this is all we need to know. Evolution, however, works hard at trying to explain the unexplainable, in an attempt to say that man can and does have the power and knowledge of a god. The first act of disobedience was an act wrapped in this very desire, to know, to understand all that exists. When Eve was tempted to eat the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, she was seeking to know more than her Creator desired for her to know; a complete act of distrust. To find out more about what the Bible has to say about creation, evolution or false teachings, visit our Bible resources.
As Satan counterfeits every thing of God, even setting himself up as the Messiah, evolution counterfeits every truth about creationism. Evolution teaches that land was formed before the oceans, and Genesis 1:2 teaches that the earth was without form and that the Spirit of God moved above the waters. Evolution teaches that man and plant life have evolved while the Bible explains that the man, earth, and all its inhabitants were created and the process was completed on the sixth day. Evolution teaches that the world moved from a organic form and develops into a progressed society. Evidence of creation proves that the world is actually going in the opposite direction, being first created perfect but in a continuous and progressive state of destruction and decay because of sinful man. And, evolution teaches that man evolved from an animal. The scriptures address this issue, even before Darwin's theory was published, before Charles Darwin was even born. "But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body. All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes and another of birds" (1 Corinthians 15:38-39). Clearly knowing what man would believe, God finds it wise to explain that He alone created the species and He created them separately.
There have been natural disasters throughout the years, such as the eruption of Mount St. Helens, that have given scientists the opportunity to study natural elements and how catastrophes can effect the earth. Many new and interesting facts have been recorded and all point to evidence of creation, dispelling the old methods used for aging the earth. Scientists have discovered that layers of earth can now be formed within days, with hot volcanic lava flows. Creationism can further be supported by proof that a one time catastrophic flood covered the earth. With the advancements of modern technology, many reports and findings are now accessible to the average interested person through the Internet. The curious and the confused should spend time looking into the latest research that has been approved by credible resources.
And, of course, the Bible can be the ultimate resource for discovering the truths about how this world came in to being and for what purpose. God created the heavens and the earth with specific purposes in mind, and it is truly the wish of every living soul to discover that purpose. Take time researching Scripture to clear up questions that the theory of evolution has posed to modern man. Start by testing your knowledge of what the Bible truly has to say about the evidence of creation and take the quiz linked above.
For more information: http://www.christianet.com/bibleverses
No one can argue that there are many mysteries surrounding the beginnings of the world and mankind. While the Bible explains to us how the world came into being and how man was originally formed, man's finite wisdom does not allow him to grasp the ability of it all. God certainly enlightens man into his methods, but man will never completely understand God's omnipotent power in creationism. There is a call to trust in what God tells us and to trust that this is all we need to know. Evolution, however, works hard at trying to explain the unexplainable, in an attempt to say that man can and does have the power and knowledge of a god. The first act of disobedience was an act wrapped in this very desire, to know, to understand all that exists. When Eve was tempted to eat the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, she was seeking to know more than her Creator desired for her to know; a complete act of distrust. To find out more about what the Bible has to say about creation, evolution or false teachings, visit our Bible resources.
As Satan counterfeits every thing of God, even setting himself up as the Messiah, evolution counterfeits every truth about creationism. Evolution teaches that land was formed before the oceans, and Genesis 1:2 teaches that the earth was without form and that the Spirit of God moved above the waters. Evolution teaches that man and plant life have evolved while the Bible explains that the man, earth, and all its inhabitants were created and the process was completed on the sixth day. Evolution teaches that the world moved from a organic form and develops into a progressed society. Evidence of creation proves that the world is actually going in the opposite direction, being first created perfect but in a continuous and progressive state of destruction and decay because of sinful man. And, evolution teaches that man evolved from an animal. The scriptures address this issue, even before Darwin's theory was published, before Charles Darwin was even born. "But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body. All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes and another of birds" (1 Corinthians 15:38-39). Clearly knowing what man would believe, God finds it wise to explain that He alone created the species and He created them separately.
There have been natural disasters throughout the years, such as the eruption of Mount St. Helens, that have given scientists the opportunity to study natural elements and how catastrophes can effect the earth. Many new and interesting facts have been recorded and all point to evidence of creation, dispelling the old methods used for aging the earth. Scientists have discovered that layers of earth can now be formed within days, with hot volcanic lava flows. Creationism can further be supported by proof that a one time catastrophic flood covered the earth. With the advancements of modern technology, many reports and findings are now accessible to the average interested person through the Internet. The curious and the confused should spend time looking into the latest research that has been approved by credible resources.
And, of course, the Bible can be the ultimate resource for discovering the truths about how this world came in to being and for what purpose. God created the heavens and the earth with specific purposes in mind, and it is truly the wish of every living soul to discover that purpose. Take time researching Scripture to clear up questions that the theory of evolution has posed to modern man. Start by testing your knowledge of what the Bible truly has to say about the evidence of creation and take the quiz linked above.
For more information: http://www.christianet.com/bibleverses
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Bible Study On Tithing
For those interested in getting together a Bible study on tithing, this topic most likely will be met with somewhat of a stoic response from participants. Giving has never been a subject well received by many church goers, especially those who have had bad experiences in the past from churches that pound the subject into attendee's heads. Therefore when preparing to bring forth this subject, be sure to present it in as positive a way as possible, emphasizing that God is pleased with a cheerful giver, no matter how much the giver decides to give. Exploring the issues of why Christians should tithe, how much they should tithe, and blessings bestowed because of faithfulness to tithing are helpful to the new Christian as well as the old. Let's explore some instances of tithing in the New Testament to get a broad overview.
This subject of tithing in the New Testament is found in two books, primarily Mark chapter 12 and in Luke chapter 21. These passages describe the widow and her sacrificial giving of the last bit of money she had. Jesus contrasted her small gift against the sizeable gifts presented by the rich when they brought alms into the temple. Comparatively speaking, the gifts of the rich were a smaller percentage of what they had than that of the widow; for she gave everything she had left, financially speaking. Therefore, she is viewed as having the greater gift or sacrifice. While Jesus does not go on to elaborate further on the widow, one can read into the story that giving is to be sacrificial, and when it is, the gift is considered greater. When one gives all, there is not a greater sacrifice. Perhaps this even parallels Jesus' sacrificial gift of His life, and certainly paints a very positive picture for the Christian, because His gift was redemptive. Perhaps the widow was also redeemed in some way by her sacrificial gift, though not spiritually. Jesus was certainly pleased with the widow and her gift, and there sermons emphasize that in this way, God is pleased with a cheerful giver.
Leading a Bible study on tithing can be a great opportunity to examine as well, Old Testament and even Jewish beliefs about tithing which isn't often the focus in Christian circles. Some may ask how tithing got started at all. Looking back into the Old Testament, you can find a verse in Genesis, chapter 14 verse 20 where Abram blesses God and gives the high priest tithes of all he has. "And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all". Also, mentions of tithing are found in the book of Numbers chapter 18, as a part of the law given through Moses. It appears that the purpose of the tithes were to support the Levitical priests as they served in the temple.
This explains why Abram contributed his tithes to Melchizedek in the temple.Giving in the New Testament, as seen in the story of the widow, takes more of a voluntary bent than what we see in the Old Testament. One gives out of love in the case of the widow, and one gives out of command in the Old Testament. A careful study of these themes by contrasting stories in the Old and New Testaments will bear out legalistic emphases in the stories for Old Testament, forgiveness, and love in the New Testament. Since it seems giving was voluntary in Jesus' time, when did the 10% viewpoint come to bear? Upon a careful Bible study on tithing, paying attention to later church documents reveals that the Council of Trent made giving mandatory for Catholics. Since governments had a heavy influence from the church, it was in their interest to create revenue, and giving through the church was their avenue to do so. In Roman days, our Bible study on tithing reveals that Joseph even propounded that gifts should be as much as 30%! Surely the Romans exacted heavy burdens on everyone - perhaps this is why Josephus suggested this amount, to find favor with the Roman elites of which he mingled. After all, he was a major historian of the time.
Obviously tithing in the New Testament is important, or Jesus would not have told the story. The subject may get readers to examine the heart's intent when it comes to earthly and material possessions. Jesus' story of the rich man who couldn't part with his belongings and prayed that others in his family would not end up in Hell, illustrates that hoarding possessions does not produce sacrificial love, but rather a hardness of heart. Therefore the subject of tithing in the New Testament is mentioned in a gentle way, Jesus giving credence to the widow's actions as the better way to give of one's possessions. The rich demonstrate their opulence and make loud proclamations about how much they give. By contrast, the widow silently crept up and gave what she had. This most likely was not out of shame, but was an act of humility. This further cements the idea that riches will work to eradicate humility and sacrifice in the life of those who have much.
So, leading a study on giving does not necessarily have to be punitive, dry and boring. The group can discuss how the act can create in believers a genuine love of giving, as it creates in the Christian the fruits of humility and sacrifice. What better positive outcomes can emerge from the subject than these!
For more information: http://www.christianet.com/biblestudy
This subject of tithing in the New Testament is found in two books, primarily Mark chapter 12 and in Luke chapter 21. These passages describe the widow and her sacrificial giving of the last bit of money she had. Jesus contrasted her small gift against the sizeable gifts presented by the rich when they brought alms into the temple. Comparatively speaking, the gifts of the rich were a smaller percentage of what they had than that of the widow; for she gave everything she had left, financially speaking. Therefore, she is viewed as having the greater gift or sacrifice. While Jesus does not go on to elaborate further on the widow, one can read into the story that giving is to be sacrificial, and when it is, the gift is considered greater. When one gives all, there is not a greater sacrifice. Perhaps this even parallels Jesus' sacrificial gift of His life, and certainly paints a very positive picture for the Christian, because His gift was redemptive. Perhaps the widow was also redeemed in some way by her sacrificial gift, though not spiritually. Jesus was certainly pleased with the widow and her gift, and there sermons emphasize that in this way, God is pleased with a cheerful giver.
Leading a Bible study on tithing can be a great opportunity to examine as well, Old Testament and even Jewish beliefs about tithing which isn't often the focus in Christian circles. Some may ask how tithing got started at all. Looking back into the Old Testament, you can find a verse in Genesis, chapter 14 verse 20 where Abram blesses God and gives the high priest tithes of all he has. "And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all". Also, mentions of tithing are found in the book of Numbers chapter 18, as a part of the law given through Moses. It appears that the purpose of the tithes were to support the Levitical priests as they served in the temple.
This explains why Abram contributed his tithes to Melchizedek in the temple.Giving in the New Testament, as seen in the story of the widow, takes more of a voluntary bent than what we see in the Old Testament. One gives out of love in the case of the widow, and one gives out of command in the Old Testament. A careful study of these themes by contrasting stories in the Old and New Testaments will bear out legalistic emphases in the stories for Old Testament, forgiveness, and love in the New Testament. Since it seems giving was voluntary in Jesus' time, when did the 10% viewpoint come to bear? Upon a careful Bible study on tithing, paying attention to later church documents reveals that the Council of Trent made giving mandatory for Catholics. Since governments had a heavy influence from the church, it was in their interest to create revenue, and giving through the church was their avenue to do so. In Roman days, our Bible study on tithing reveals that Joseph even propounded that gifts should be as much as 30%! Surely the Romans exacted heavy burdens on everyone - perhaps this is why Josephus suggested this amount, to find favor with the Roman elites of which he mingled. After all, he was a major historian of the time.
Obviously tithing in the New Testament is important, or Jesus would not have told the story. The subject may get readers to examine the heart's intent when it comes to earthly and material possessions. Jesus' story of the rich man who couldn't part with his belongings and prayed that others in his family would not end up in Hell, illustrates that hoarding possessions does not produce sacrificial love, but rather a hardness of heart. Therefore the subject of tithing in the New Testament is mentioned in a gentle way, Jesus giving credence to the widow's actions as the better way to give of one's possessions. The rich demonstrate their opulence and make loud proclamations about how much they give. By contrast, the widow silently crept up and gave what she had. This most likely was not out of shame, but was an act of humility. This further cements the idea that riches will work to eradicate humility and sacrifice in the life of those who have much.
So, leading a study on giving does not necessarily have to be punitive, dry and boring. The group can discuss how the act can create in believers a genuine love of giving, as it creates in the Christian the fruits of humility and sacrifice. What better positive outcomes can emerge from the subject than these!
For more information: http://www.christianet.com/biblestudy
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Old Testament Prophets
A list of prophets in the Bible would be a long one that included both men who spoke for God and those who were false. The Old Testament prophets who wrote books are listed in the table of contents beginning with Isaiah and ending with Malachi. Only one book in the New Testament is classified as prophecy, the book of Revelation written by the apostle John during his exile on the island of Patmos in 96 A.D. The Prophecy section of the Old Testament is divided into two subsections: the major and minor prophets. These designations refers to the size of the texts, not to their importance or validity. The books of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations (which was written by Jeremiah), Ezekiel, and Daniel are considered the major prophets. The remaining ones are the minor prophets, namely: Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. These were not the only ones, though. Many others spoke the Word of God, as directed by God, and their accounts are in the Scriptures.
How did the people know which prophets came from God and which ones were false? "When a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD; if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him" (Deuteronomy 18:22). A notable false prophet is Balaam who was rebuked by a donkey. As recounted in the book of Numbers, Balaam angered God by going with messengers from the Moabite king. This ruler feared the multitude of Israelites camping along the Moabite borders and wanted Balaam to curse the Israelites. Balaam didn't see the angel of the Lord blocking the path, but the donkey did. When she tried to get away, Balaam beat her. "And the LORD opened the mouth of the ass, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?" (Numbers 22:28). Balaam confessed the sin he committed and "he went not, as at other times, to seek for enchantments" (Numbers 23:1b). Instead he blessed Israel -- much to the Moabite king's horror. It's worth noting that Balaam's habit was to seek "enchantments" rather than God's will.
The list of prophets in the Bible, that is, in the table of contents, begins with Isaiah. In about 931 B.C., Solomon's sons, Jereboam and Rehoboam, fought over the throne. The northern kingdom of Israel separated from the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. These two became the southern kingdom. Jereboam I was the first king of the northern kingdom and Rehoboam was the first king of the southern kingdom. Like several of the other Old Testament prophets, Isaiah foretold the coming of the Messiah. He prophesied from about 740 B.C. until around 686 B.C., during the reigns of the kings Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. These men ruled over the southern kingdom of Judah for about one hundred years, from about 786 B.C. to 686 B.C.
Known as the "weeping prophet," Jeremiah ministered from approximately 627 B.C. to 580 B.C. His ministry began during the reign of the boy-king, Josiah, who rid the kingdom of the false gods polluting the land. Known for godly devotion, Josiah is remembered as a great king. After Josiah's death, the southern kingdom was conquered by Egypt. One of Josiah's sons became a puppet king and the brief time of spiritual well-being came to an end. The book of Lamentations, which scholars believe Jeremiah wrote, is a collection of poems that lament the conquest of Judah and the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 586 B.C. At this time, almost all the people of Judah were taken to Babylon and the period of exile began.
Among the minor Old Testament prophets, Jonah is perhaps the best-known. Told by God to preach to the people of Ninevah, Jonah ran in the other direction. His ship was threatened by a horrific storm and Jonah insisted that the sailors throw him overboard to save themselves. The storm ended and Jonah spent the next three days in the belly of a big fish prepared by God. When Jonah was spit up on land, he went to Ninevah and the people repented of their sins. Instead of being happy about the results of God's message, Jonah pouted and had to learn a lesson in mercy. These events most likely took place during King Jereboam II's reign over the northern kingdom (793-753 B.C.).
The table of content's list of prophets in the Bible ends with Malachi, who prophesied during the postexilic period. At this time (circa 444 B.C.), Ezra and Nehemiah returned to rebuild Jerusalem. Malachi encouraged the people who were intent on restoring their spiritual commitment to God and to obeying His laws. The order of the minor prophets in the table of contents is not a chronological list, though it is close. The chronological list of the minor prophets follows: Obadiah, Joel, Jonah, Amos, Hosea, Micah, Nahum, Zephaniah, Habakkuk, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. After Malachi, God is silent for about four hundred years, but Malachi is not the last of the Old Testament prophets. In His perfect timing, God sent the last prophet of the old covenant, John the Baptist, to pave the way for the coming of the Messiah. The gospel writers tell about John the Baptist's ministry in the beginning of the first century A.D. and how King Herod imprisoned and beheaded him.
A comprehensive list of prophets in the Bible includes not only those listed above, but also Moses, the revered Samuel who anointed both Saul and David as kings, the brave Nathan who confronted David when he sinned with Bathsheba, and Elijah and Elisha whose lives were often endangered by the evil King Ahab and his wicked wife Jezebel. The Old Testament prophets include women such as Moses' sister Miriam and the judge Deborah who fought with Barak against Israel's enemies.
For more information: http://www.christianet.com/bibleverses
How did the people know which prophets came from God and which ones were false? "When a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD; if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him" (Deuteronomy 18:22). A notable false prophet is Balaam who was rebuked by a donkey. As recounted in the book of Numbers, Balaam angered God by going with messengers from the Moabite king. This ruler feared the multitude of Israelites camping along the Moabite borders and wanted Balaam to curse the Israelites. Balaam didn't see the angel of the Lord blocking the path, but the donkey did. When she tried to get away, Balaam beat her. "And the LORD opened the mouth of the ass, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?" (Numbers 22:28). Balaam confessed the sin he committed and "he went not, as at other times, to seek for enchantments" (Numbers 23:1b). Instead he blessed Israel -- much to the Moabite king's horror. It's worth noting that Balaam's habit was to seek "enchantments" rather than God's will.
The list of prophets in the Bible, that is, in the table of contents, begins with Isaiah. In about 931 B.C., Solomon's sons, Jereboam and Rehoboam, fought over the throne. The northern kingdom of Israel separated from the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. These two became the southern kingdom. Jereboam I was the first king of the northern kingdom and Rehoboam was the first king of the southern kingdom. Like several of the other Old Testament prophets, Isaiah foretold the coming of the Messiah. He prophesied from about 740 B.C. until around 686 B.C., during the reigns of the kings Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. These men ruled over the southern kingdom of Judah for about one hundred years, from about 786 B.C. to 686 B.C.
Known as the "weeping prophet," Jeremiah ministered from approximately 627 B.C. to 580 B.C. His ministry began during the reign of the boy-king, Josiah, who rid the kingdom of the false gods polluting the land. Known for godly devotion, Josiah is remembered as a great king. After Josiah's death, the southern kingdom was conquered by Egypt. One of Josiah's sons became a puppet king and the brief time of spiritual well-being came to an end. The book of Lamentations, which scholars believe Jeremiah wrote, is a collection of poems that lament the conquest of Judah and the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 586 B.C. At this time, almost all the people of Judah were taken to Babylon and the period of exile began.
Among the minor Old Testament prophets, Jonah is perhaps the best-known. Told by God to preach to the people of Ninevah, Jonah ran in the other direction. His ship was threatened by a horrific storm and Jonah insisted that the sailors throw him overboard to save themselves. The storm ended and Jonah spent the next three days in the belly of a big fish prepared by God. When Jonah was spit up on land, he went to Ninevah and the people repented of their sins. Instead of being happy about the results of God's message, Jonah pouted and had to learn a lesson in mercy. These events most likely took place during King Jereboam II's reign over the northern kingdom (793-753 B.C.).
The table of content's list of prophets in the Bible ends with Malachi, who prophesied during the postexilic period. At this time (circa 444 B.C.), Ezra and Nehemiah returned to rebuild Jerusalem. Malachi encouraged the people who were intent on restoring their spiritual commitment to God and to obeying His laws. The order of the minor prophets in the table of contents is not a chronological list, though it is close. The chronological list of the minor prophets follows: Obadiah, Joel, Jonah, Amos, Hosea, Micah, Nahum, Zephaniah, Habakkuk, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. After Malachi, God is silent for about four hundred years, but Malachi is not the last of the Old Testament prophets. In His perfect timing, God sent the last prophet of the old covenant, John the Baptist, to pave the way for the coming of the Messiah. The gospel writers tell about John the Baptist's ministry in the beginning of the first century A.D. and how King Herod imprisoned and beheaded him.
A comprehensive list of prophets in the Bible includes not only those listed above, but also Moses, the revered Samuel who anointed both Saul and David as kings, the brave Nathan who confronted David when he sinned with Bathsheba, and Elijah and Elisha whose lives were often endangered by the evil King Ahab and his wicked wife Jezebel. The Old Testament prophets include women such as Moses' sister Miriam and the judge Deborah who fought with Barak against Israel's enemies.
For more information: http://www.christianet.com/bibleverses
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