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Wednesday, September 30, 2009
End Times Signs
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Books Of The Old Testament
Books Of The Old Testament contain the information that God wanted readers to know about the beginning of the Creation, the fall of man, the flood, the law, historical accounts, poetical accounts, and major and minor prophecy. The two main parts of the Christian Biblical canon are the Old and the New Testaments. The list of Old Testament books contain some timeless truths that can be applied in modern times. "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made" (John 1:1-3). "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth" (John 1:14).
The Old Testament contains 39 books total and Genesis is the very first record covering the creation, the fall of man, the Flood, and how the nations were started. Abraham and Joseph are main characters in the book of Genesis and both show faith in action as they believe God. Genesis also contains the record of the enslavement of the Children of Israel in Egypt. The books of the Old Testament provide very vital illustrations of how God works through people to accomplish His will. After Genesis are Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. These are all considered the Pentateuch or Law. Exodus contains the enactments of Moses and how he was instrumental in bringing the Israelites out of bondage. The Passover, the parting of the Red Sea, and the 10 Commandments are all contained in Exodus. Leviticus contains accounts of the priesthood and instruction. Numbers has enactments of false idol worship, punishment, and the forty years of wandering in the wilderness. Finally, Deuteronomy is the account of the ceremonial, civil, and social laws set forth for the Israelites.
The historical account of God's people contains 12 books. These include Joshua, Judges, Ruth, First and Second Samuel, First and Second Kings, First and Second Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther. This list of Old Testament books is about Joshua, the time of the Judges, Prophets, the Kings, history of Judah, and Israel's restoration. These stories contain real events that happened to real people. People who loved the Lord and desired to serve Him. Some were successful in remaining faithful to God while others gave in to their earthly desires and found that they had much trouble in their life. For God told the Israelites that if they were obedient to His word and put Him first, their lives would be blessed. However, they were also told that they would be punished and suffer consequences when disobedient.
Some books of the OT were beautifully written. These are Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon and are considered the poetical accounts. The account of Job shows the illustration of how one man who was considered righteous suffered at the hand of Satan. Without the book of Job, Christians might not get that Satan has to ask for permission before he can touch God's children. The books of the Old Testament provide life application to those contained in its pages. This helps Christians today to learn by seeing the mistakes that others have made when making wrong choices. Psalms is one of the most favorite books of the Bible because of the poetic writings and encouraging scriptures. Proverbs is known as the account of wisdom. Ecclesiastes talks about the futility of man and Song of Solomon is a love story.
The next 17 accounts are prophetical. Five of these are written by major Prophets and 12 are written by minor Prophets. The first five are Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, and Daniel. These show how God works through his Prophets to reach the people, guide them, and to bless them. This list of Old Testament books contains prophecies of future events. Isaiah is largely a look at the sin of Judah and God's judgment. Jeremiah prophecies about judgment to Judah and the establishing of a new covenant. Lamentations is 5 poems about the defeat and fall of Jerusalem and Ezekiel ministered to the Jews who were in captivity in Babylon. Daniel had visions of the future and could interpret dreams. He was faithful to God and God delivered him from the lions den.
The 12 books of the minor prophets contain many accounts of future prophecy concerning Israel and the Gentiles. Some pertaining to end time events and others that happened while they were alive. The list of Old Testament books that are minor prophets include Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Each one of these accounts show God's love for people and how he forgives and blesses them if they repent and turn to Him. Many of these accounts contain judgments because of disobedience, spiritual adultery, moral decay, apostasy, and how many were complacent when it came to obedience to God.
The most important message of the OT is the prophecies that portray the coming of the Messiah to save the people from their sins. Jesus did come and the New Testament tells the account of His ministry and how he does save those who are lost. The work that Jesus did on the cross, dying for sin, and rising from the dead is the fulfillment of the books of the Old Testament and good news for everyone who believes in Him. The word spoken of in the OT was Jesus who was with God in the beginning, who came to earth and walked among men and then gave His life to save them.
The Old Testament contains 39 books total and Genesis is the very first record covering the creation, the fall of man, the Flood, and how the nations were started. Abraham and Joseph are main characters in the book of Genesis and both show faith in action as they believe God. Genesis also contains the record of the enslavement of the Children of Israel in Egypt. The books of the Old Testament provide very vital illustrations of how God works through people to accomplish His will. After Genesis are Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. These are all considered the Pentateuch or Law. Exodus contains the enactments of Moses and how he was instrumental in bringing the Israelites out of bondage. The Passover, the parting of the Red Sea, and the 10 Commandments are all contained in Exodus. Leviticus contains accounts of the priesthood and instruction. Numbers has enactments of false idol worship, punishment, and the forty years of wandering in the wilderness. Finally, Deuteronomy is the account of the ceremonial, civil, and social laws set forth for the Israelites.
The historical account of God's people contains 12 books. These include Joshua, Judges, Ruth, First and Second Samuel, First and Second Kings, First and Second Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther. This list of Old Testament books is about Joshua, the time of the Judges, Prophets, the Kings, history of Judah, and Israel's restoration. These stories contain real events that happened to real people. People who loved the Lord and desired to serve Him. Some were successful in remaining faithful to God while others gave in to their earthly desires and found that they had much trouble in their life. For God told the Israelites that if they were obedient to His word and put Him first, their lives would be blessed. However, they were also told that they would be punished and suffer consequences when disobedient.
Some books of the OT were beautifully written. These are Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon and are considered the poetical accounts. The account of Job shows the illustration of how one man who was considered righteous suffered at the hand of Satan. Without the book of Job, Christians might not get that Satan has to ask for permission before he can touch God's children. The books of the Old Testament provide life application to those contained in its pages. This helps Christians today to learn by seeing the mistakes that others have made when making wrong choices. Psalms is one of the most favorite books of the Bible because of the poetic writings and encouraging scriptures. Proverbs is known as the account of wisdom. Ecclesiastes talks about the futility of man and Song of Solomon is a love story.
The next 17 accounts are prophetical. Five of these are written by major Prophets and 12 are written by minor Prophets. The first five are Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, and Daniel. These show how God works through his Prophets to reach the people, guide them, and to bless them. This list of Old Testament books contains prophecies of future events. Isaiah is largely a look at the sin of Judah and God's judgment. Jeremiah prophecies about judgment to Judah and the establishing of a new covenant. Lamentations is 5 poems about the defeat and fall of Jerusalem and Ezekiel ministered to the Jews who were in captivity in Babylon. Daniel had visions of the future and could interpret dreams. He was faithful to God and God delivered him from the lions den.
The 12 books of the minor prophets contain many accounts of future prophecy concerning Israel and the Gentiles. Some pertaining to end time events and others that happened while they were alive. The list of Old Testament books that are minor prophets include Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Each one of these accounts show God's love for people and how he forgives and blesses them if they repent and turn to Him. Many of these accounts contain judgments because of disobedience, spiritual adultery, moral decay, apostasy, and how many were complacent when it came to obedience to God.
The most important message of the OT is the prophecies that portray the coming of the Messiah to save the people from their sins. Jesus did come and the New Testament tells the account of His ministry and how he does save those who are lost. The work that Jesus did on the cross, dying for sin, and rising from the dead is the fulfillment of the books of the Old Testament and good news for everyone who believes in Him. The word spoken of in the OT was Jesus who was with God in the beginning, who came to earth and walked among men and then gave His life to save them.
For more information: http://www.christianet.com/biblestudy
Friday, September 11, 2009
Bible Study On The Book Of Revelations
The future is the fascinating subject in a Bible study on the book of Revelations. Reading and researching this book is similar to getting a sneak preview of the end of the world before it ever comes to pass! A study of this portion of scripture reveals how God views churches, Christians and non-Christians at the end of time, and reveals what will become of all of them. For those who do not know, this book was written by the prophet John, while incarcerated on the Isle of Patmos. Here, our Lord gives John many visions of Heaven, Hell and of how a new Heaven and Earth will be created. Throughout this time, God demonstrates awesome power through His angels and judgments via the seven seals. Now this is exciting reading!
When a Bible study on the book of Revelations is performed in parallel with a Daniel Bible study, the student will be able to detect several instances of similar prophetic visions. For example in the book of Daniel in the Old Testament, he discusses the great beasts that will devour the Earth and break it into pieces. In the book of Revelation, refer to chapter 13 verses 1 - 6. There it talks about the Beast that stands on the sea which has seven heads and ten horns. There is a direct reference here back to Daniel. In another chapter, Daniel is commanded by King Nebuchadnezzar to interpret a dream he has about an image made of gold, silver, bronze and clay. This passage refers directly to chapter 16 in Revelation, which speaks of the same image. Clearly, these two books speak about the same end time prophecies, but are articulated by two prophets born hundreds of years apart!
In a Daniel Bible study, the student will come to understand that this book spans 70 years of Jewish captivity in Babylon. Daniel was very young, just a teen, when God called him to prophesy to both the Jews and Gentiles about his purpose for the Earth. The book reveals that God is very active in our lives, and has been since the beginning of time. It will be the same at the end of time as well. This prophet must have had great faith and boldness to go and preach in this manner to a foreign nation. Our Daniel Bible study begins with a narrative about how Nebuchadnezzar came to power in Babylon, and how Daniel came to find favor with this king. During this time, God provided Daniel with much knowledge and wisdom about great writings and visions.
Also revealed in a Bible study on the book of Revelations, is the fact that John the prophet was very old, contrasting the youth of Daniel and his prophecies. Perhaps this is God's way of showing both the young and old perspective of purpose. Daniel found favor with those to whom he preached, and John fell into disfavor with those to whom he preached. One was free, one was jailed. In both situations, God was able to send His message, regardless of the circumstances. Doesn't this show the omnipotence and omnipresence of God in a powerful way? Certainly! The meaning of the Revelation is unveiling. Here God brings to an end the history of humankind as we know it, and ushers in eternal existence and fellowship with Him, who knows Him as their Savior.
Throughout the Bible study on the book of Revelations, several divisions of the book become evident to the student. First, John discusses the seven churches: the church that doesn't show love anymore; the church which is persecuted, the church that makes exceptions to its hurt; the church which allows gross immorality; the faithful church in Philadelphia and finally, the Laodicean church, which is so lukewarm, God says He will spit them out of His mouth! Then, the story progresses to John's vision taking place in Heaven, where he sees God's throne, angels and elders worshipping around the throne. Then the Lamb of God breaks open the scrolls. The entire time all in Heaven continually worship about the Lord's throne. The breaking of the seals releases the horsemen of the apocalypse upon the earth to do His bidding, and causes men to either worship or curse Him. Then we witness the blowing of the trumpets, the death of the two witnesses, the vision or sign of the great woman who birthed a child. Now comes the description of the Anti-Christ, the bowl judgments, the fall of Babylon, Satan bound for 1000 years, and then the great white throne judgment. At last the book ends when the New Jerusalem comes down out of Heaven, a new Heaven and Earth now exist, and God reigns forever. Wow. Now movie epic can ever match that kind of script! That is why the Bible is one of the world's best sellers of all time.
A careful Daniel Bible study could yield the same excitement for the Bible scholar, because the importance of this book is on a par with the book of Revelation due to the many visions and prophecies Daniel provides to all those Kings he was privileged to know and witness to. As Daniel warns the Old Testament Kings of God's impending judgment, so too does John warn all of mankind through his authoring of the book of Revelation. Lastly, one of the most wonderful things about studying the Bible is that, no matter how many times it is opened to read, it is always fresh and new. Time to start studying!
When a Bible study on the book of Revelations is performed in parallel with a Daniel Bible study, the student will be able to detect several instances of similar prophetic visions. For example in the book of Daniel in the Old Testament, he discusses the great beasts that will devour the Earth and break it into pieces. In the book of Revelation, refer to chapter 13 verses 1 - 6. There it talks about the Beast that stands on the sea which has seven heads and ten horns. There is a direct reference here back to Daniel. In another chapter, Daniel is commanded by King Nebuchadnezzar to interpret a dream he has about an image made of gold, silver, bronze and clay. This passage refers directly to chapter 16 in Revelation, which speaks of the same image. Clearly, these two books speak about the same end time prophecies, but are articulated by two prophets born hundreds of years apart!
In a Daniel Bible study, the student will come to understand that this book spans 70 years of Jewish captivity in Babylon. Daniel was very young, just a teen, when God called him to prophesy to both the Jews and Gentiles about his purpose for the Earth. The book reveals that God is very active in our lives, and has been since the beginning of time. It will be the same at the end of time as well. This prophet must have had great faith and boldness to go and preach in this manner to a foreign nation. Our Daniel Bible study begins with a narrative about how Nebuchadnezzar came to power in Babylon, and how Daniel came to find favor with this king. During this time, God provided Daniel with much knowledge and wisdom about great writings and visions.
Also revealed in a Bible study on the book of Revelations, is the fact that John the prophet was very old, contrasting the youth of Daniel and his prophecies. Perhaps this is God's way of showing both the young and old perspective of purpose. Daniel found favor with those to whom he preached, and John fell into disfavor with those to whom he preached. One was free, one was jailed. In both situations, God was able to send His message, regardless of the circumstances. Doesn't this show the omnipotence and omnipresence of God in a powerful way? Certainly! The meaning of the Revelation is unveiling. Here God brings to an end the history of humankind as we know it, and ushers in eternal existence and fellowship with Him, who knows Him as their Savior.
Throughout the Bible study on the book of Revelations, several divisions of the book become evident to the student. First, John discusses the seven churches: the church that doesn't show love anymore; the church which is persecuted, the church that makes exceptions to its hurt; the church which allows gross immorality; the faithful church in Philadelphia and finally, the Laodicean church, which is so lukewarm, God says He will spit them out of His mouth! Then, the story progresses to John's vision taking place in Heaven, where he sees God's throne, angels and elders worshipping around the throne. Then the Lamb of God breaks open the scrolls. The entire time all in Heaven continually worship about the Lord's throne. The breaking of the seals releases the horsemen of the apocalypse upon the earth to do His bidding, and causes men to either worship or curse Him. Then we witness the blowing of the trumpets, the death of the two witnesses, the vision or sign of the great woman who birthed a child. Now comes the description of the Anti-Christ, the bowl judgments, the fall of Babylon, Satan bound for 1000 years, and then the great white throne judgment. At last the book ends when the New Jerusalem comes down out of Heaven, a new Heaven and Earth now exist, and God reigns forever. Wow. Now movie epic can ever match that kind of script! That is why the Bible is one of the world's best sellers of all time.
A careful Daniel Bible study could yield the same excitement for the Bible scholar, because the importance of this book is on a par with the book of Revelation due to the many visions and prophecies Daniel provides to all those Kings he was privileged to know and witness to. As Daniel warns the Old Testament Kings of God's impending judgment, so too does John warn all of mankind through his authoring of the book of Revelation. Lastly, one of the most wonderful things about studying the Bible is that, no matter how many times it is opened to read, it is always fresh and new. Time to start studying!
For more information: http://www.christianet.com/biblestudy
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Bible Studies On Prayer
Ever been to any real Bible studies on prayer? Multitudes of books on prayer have been written, some better than others, but each with some contribution to make to our understanding of the subject. However, go back to the source to prepare prayer Bible studies. The Bible is full of examples of the prayers of God's people. These stories reveal important principles, and are far more interesting than any set of instructions.
The most startling aspect about Biblical accounts of the lives of the followers of God is that the stories have an 'unedited' quality. Christians are revealed at their best -- and worst -- moments. How could that be appealing? Wouldn't it be better to see the people of God as shining examples of steadfast righteousness? Of course. Yet, the fact that people and events are portrayed with such transparency is in itself a powerful argument for the reliability of the Bible. Also, their failure offers hope. If an examination of prayer Bible studies reveals that God can forgive, love, and continue to use them in His plan, this ignites the hope that the same mercy is available for everyone else.
Some fine examples for prayer Bible studies that come to mind are the prayers of David found in the book of Psalms. David's delight in his relationship with God is evident, and this recalls the importance of a proper attitude in the presence of God. Acknowledging who God is and offering heartfelt praise, as well as confession of personal sin, was part of David's approach to God, and should be a basic part of our prayers, too. David does not hesitate to pour out the contents of his heart before God, with all of the joys, sorrows, longings, fears, confusion, triumphs, anger, disappointments and pain that are common to human experience. This is a relief. Although a person should approach God with awe and respect, one can still be honest about matters which are truly important, and not just rattle off a series of rote requests as though speaking with God were some kind of spiritual ATM transaction.
Further Bible studies on prayer reveal that the people of God pray in all sorts of situations, with some rather spectacular results. Abram laments that he is childless, and God promises countless descendants and a land, as well as other covenant promises. Later, Abraham prays and Lot and two daughters are delivered from the destruction which falls upon Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham's servant prays and Rebekah is revealed as Isaac's future wife. Isaac prays and this same Rebekah is healed of her barrenness. Another time, Isaac calls upon the Lord and those who had been acting as enemies (Abimelech and the Philistines) come asking for a treaty of peace. Plagues are lifted from Egypt when Moses stretches out hands to God in prayer. Moses cries out to God, seas are parted and the Israelites pass on in safety, while their enemies are drowned. After three days of wandering, Moses prays and bitter waters at Marah are made sweet. Amalekites are defeated while Moses' arms are lifted in prayer, and Joshua's prayers halt the sun and moon in its tracks for about a day so that the Israelites can pursue Amorite enemies. Elisha prays and a fearful servant is enabled to see fiery horses and chariots surrounding the servants of God, while hostile Arameans are temporarily blinded. These are only a few of many such incidents in the Old Testament.
In New Testament Bible studies on prayer, the pattern of amazing results continues. Zechariah prays and receives a son, later known as John the Baptist. Simeon, a righteous and devout man, is told by the Holy Spirit that he will see the Christ. He not only sees Him, but is allowed to hold the infant Savior in his arms. Anna, a widowed prophetess, prays continually and is also shown the Child. Blind men call out to Jesus and are healed. Jesus spends time praying and chooses twelve disciples who will shake the world. Later, He prays even for those who will believe through the disciples' testimony, and the Church endures to this day. Finally, Jesus is strengthened (as He prays in the garden of Gethsemane) for the ordeal of the cross, where He provides salvation for all mankind.
After Jesus' resurrection, repentant Peter (who the Lord had prayed would be restored) becomes a leader in the infant church. Prayer Bible studies reveal that the early church devoted itself not only to the apostles' teaching, to fellowship, and to the breaking of bread -- but also to praying. Paul's remarkable conversion was part of God's plan and brought about by His hand. Yet God used as an instrument the prayers of Christians Paul had persecuted.
Other Bible studies on prayer reveal that Stephen was one of seven whom the apostles had set aside (with prayer) to deal with matters which threatened to consume the twelve apostles' time for prayer and ministry. Stephen faithfully accomplished these duties, but also stirred up the anger of those who could not stand up against Spirit-led wisdom. Accused of changing laws given by Moses, Stephen launched into a quick history lesson, recounting God's dealings with Israel and rebuking these accusers for their resistance and disobedience to God's work. When he claimed to see Jesus, whom they had crucified, standing at God's right hand, his opponents stoned him, laying their clothes at the feet of a young man named Paul. Paul later urged that believers should be Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints. (Ephesians 6:18) Paul, the recipient of the grace of God, knew quite personally the life-changing effect of prayer. For Stephen's final act, as stones rained down on him, was to pray for his murderers.
For more information: http://www.christianet.com/biblestudy
The most startling aspect about Biblical accounts of the lives of the followers of God is that the stories have an 'unedited' quality. Christians are revealed at their best -- and worst -- moments. How could that be appealing? Wouldn't it be better to see the people of God as shining examples of steadfast righteousness? Of course. Yet, the fact that people and events are portrayed with such transparency is in itself a powerful argument for the reliability of the Bible. Also, their failure offers hope. If an examination of prayer Bible studies reveals that God can forgive, love, and continue to use them in His plan, this ignites the hope that the same mercy is available for everyone else.
Some fine examples for prayer Bible studies that come to mind are the prayers of David found in the book of Psalms. David's delight in his relationship with God is evident, and this recalls the importance of a proper attitude in the presence of God. Acknowledging who God is and offering heartfelt praise, as well as confession of personal sin, was part of David's approach to God, and should be a basic part of our prayers, too. David does not hesitate to pour out the contents of his heart before God, with all of the joys, sorrows, longings, fears, confusion, triumphs, anger, disappointments and pain that are common to human experience. This is a relief. Although a person should approach God with awe and respect, one can still be honest about matters which are truly important, and not just rattle off a series of rote requests as though speaking with God were some kind of spiritual ATM transaction.
Further Bible studies on prayer reveal that the people of God pray in all sorts of situations, with some rather spectacular results. Abram laments that he is childless, and God promises countless descendants and a land, as well as other covenant promises. Later, Abraham prays and Lot and two daughters are delivered from the destruction which falls upon Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham's servant prays and Rebekah is revealed as Isaac's future wife. Isaac prays and this same Rebekah is healed of her barrenness. Another time, Isaac calls upon the Lord and those who had been acting as enemies (Abimelech and the Philistines) come asking for a treaty of peace. Plagues are lifted from Egypt when Moses stretches out hands to God in prayer. Moses cries out to God, seas are parted and the Israelites pass on in safety, while their enemies are drowned. After three days of wandering, Moses prays and bitter waters at Marah are made sweet. Amalekites are defeated while Moses' arms are lifted in prayer, and Joshua's prayers halt the sun and moon in its tracks for about a day so that the Israelites can pursue Amorite enemies. Elisha prays and a fearful servant is enabled to see fiery horses and chariots surrounding the servants of God, while hostile Arameans are temporarily blinded. These are only a few of many such incidents in the Old Testament.
In New Testament Bible studies on prayer, the pattern of amazing results continues. Zechariah prays and receives a son, later known as John the Baptist. Simeon, a righteous and devout man, is told by the Holy Spirit that he will see the Christ. He not only sees Him, but is allowed to hold the infant Savior in his arms. Anna, a widowed prophetess, prays continually and is also shown the Child. Blind men call out to Jesus and are healed. Jesus spends time praying and chooses twelve disciples who will shake the world. Later, He prays even for those who will believe through the disciples' testimony, and the Church endures to this day. Finally, Jesus is strengthened (as He prays in the garden of Gethsemane) for the ordeal of the cross, where He provides salvation for all mankind.
After Jesus' resurrection, repentant Peter (who the Lord had prayed would be restored) becomes a leader in the infant church. Prayer Bible studies reveal that the early church devoted itself not only to the apostles' teaching, to fellowship, and to the breaking of bread -- but also to praying. Paul's remarkable conversion was part of God's plan and brought about by His hand. Yet God used as an instrument the prayers of Christians Paul had persecuted.
Other Bible studies on prayer reveal that Stephen was one of seven whom the apostles had set aside (with prayer) to deal with matters which threatened to consume the twelve apostles' time for prayer and ministry. Stephen faithfully accomplished these duties, but also stirred up the anger of those who could not stand up against Spirit-led wisdom. Accused of changing laws given by Moses, Stephen launched into a quick history lesson, recounting God's dealings with Israel and rebuking these accusers for their resistance and disobedience to God's work. When he claimed to see Jesus, whom they had crucified, standing at God's right hand, his opponents stoned him, laying their clothes at the feet of a young man named Paul. Paul later urged that believers should be Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints. (Ephesians 6:18) Paul, the recipient of the grace of God, knew quite personally the life-changing effect of prayer. For Stephen's final act, as stones rained down on him, was to pray for his murderers.
For more information: http://www.christianet.com/biblestudy
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