Category: Messiah

Seven Last Sights

It’s been a grueling journey through Revelation, but we’ve arrived at the seven last sights. Up to this point, we’ve studied seven churches, seven seals, seven trumpets, seven histories, seven bowls and seven words of woe. If you’re still with me, well done–we’ve made it to the final set of seven in the book of Revelation!

First Sight (19:11-16): In John’s vision, heaven opens and a white horse appears. “Its rider is called Faithful and True, and with justice he judges and makes war.” (19:11b) Like the vision of Christ in Revelation 1, His eyes are “like a fiery flame” and a “sharp sword came from his mouth.” This time, the priestly robe He wears is “dipped in blood and His name is called the Word of God.” (19:12,15,13) He leads the armies of heaven riding on white horses and wearing pure white linen. “And he has a name written on his robe and on his thigh: King of Kings and Lord of Lords.” (19:16)

Christ’s entrance here contrasts His previous triumphal entry recorded in the Gospels (Matthew 21, Mark 11, Luke 19, John 12). “He is no longer riding a humble donkey…[but returns] on a fiery white charger, bringing judgment, just as He had promised (Matthew 25:31-33).”* John’s vision reveals Jesus as a warrior king marching in victoriously. Just as a priest’s garments would have had been stained with blood from making sacrifices, Jesus’ robe exhibits evidence of His blood shed on the cross to atone for the sins of the saints. Simultaneously, He also bears the blood of His defeated enemies, recapitulating a prophecy in Isaiah and showing the fulfillment of His wrath: “I trampled the winepress alone, and no one from the nations was with me. I trampled them in my anger and ground them underfoot in my fury; their blood spattered my garments, and all my clothes were stained.” (Isaiah 63:3) (Jen Wilkin Week 9 video)

Second Sight (19:17-18): John describes an angel calling out in a loud voice to all the birds flying overhead “Come, gather together for the great supper of God, so that you may eat the flesh of kings, the flesh of military commanders, the flesh of the mighty, the flesh of horses and of their riders, and the flesh of everyone, both free and slave, small and great.” (19:17b-18) This “banquet” appears to be the antithesis of the wedding supper of the Lamb. In a gruesome turn of events, those who refuse the invitation to the wedding supper of the Lamb become a feast for the birds.

Third Sight (19:19-21): Moving on to John’s next vision, “the beast, the kings of the earth, and their armies gathered together to wage war against the rider on the horse and against his army.” (19:19) Instead of an epic battle between good and evil, the beast (Antichrist) and the false prophet are “thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur.” (19:20c) Furthering their defeat, “the rest were killed with the sword that came from the mouth of the rider on the horse, and all the birds ate their fill of their flesh.” (19:21) This is another view of the sixth bowl judgement described in Revelation 16:16. Jen Wilkin describes this one-sided victory at Armageddon as “the battle that wasn’t.” (141)

Other parts of Scripture clarify the symbolic double-edged sword coming from the mouth of Christ: “For the word of God is living and effective and sharper than any double-edged sword, penetrating as far as the separation of soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. No creature is hidden from him, but all things are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give an account.” (Hebrews 4:12-13)

“God’s Word reveals His standard, our obligations, and our shortcomings. It cuts through our veneer of virtue, exposing us as the rebels we are, and promises that we will receive a just penalty… Against the divine standard, we inevitably fall short (Romans 3:23). That’s why we need a Savior.”**

Fourth Sight (20:1-3): Returning to a familiar scene from Revelation 9, John revisits the abyss from which the enemy unleashed locusts in the fifth trumpet judgement. In this vision, an angel holds a key to the abyss and a great chain in his hand. “He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent who is the devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years. He threw him into the abyss, closed it, and put a seal on it so that he would no longer deceive the nations until the thousand years were completed. After that, he must be released for a short time.” (20:2-3)

Both Jen Wilkin and Pastor Matt Chandler assert that 1000 years is a symbolic number that references the fixed period of time between Christ’s first and second coming to earth. This interpretation would mean we are currently living during the 1000 years. Chandler asserts that Satan is like a mafia boss calling the shots from behind bars. Because of the death and resurrection of Jesus, His followers can no longer be accused by the enemy (Romans 8:33). And with the arrival of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, the devil hasn’t been able to stop the gospel as it spreads from “Jerusalem to Judea to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)

Fifth Sight (20:4-10): Next, John sees people seated on thrones “who were given authority to judge.” (20:4b) He also sees martyrs and believers who didn’t take the mark of the beast raised back to life to reign with Christ. While this seems like a future vision, it may also symbolize our present spiritual reality. Consider this in light of Paul’s words: “we were by nature children under wrath as the others were also. But God, who is rich in mercy, because of his great love that he had for us, made us alive with Christ even though we were dead in trespasses. You are saved by grace! He also raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavens in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might display the immeasurable riches of his grace through his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.” (Ephesians 2:3b-7)

We’ve already been brought from death to life in a spiritual sense. We are born again and seated at the right hand of Christ. So, the “first resurrection” (20:5) is a spiritual one—when a person chooses to follow Jesus. The second resurrection will occur after Christ’s bodily return when our physical bodies will be raised and made new. The first death is physical death. The “second death” (20:6) is spiritual death—when those who have rejected God will be separated from Him and His goodness, light, and love for eternity. (Jen Wilkin Week 9 video)

Through Christ, believers already have spiritual authority and eternal life: “ [Jesus] said to them, ‘I watched Satan fall from heaven like lightning. Look, I have given you the authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy; nothing at all will harm you. However, don’t rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” (Luke 10:18-20)

The fifth sight continues by explaining events following the thousand years when Christ physically returns. Satan will be released from captivity, will go out to deceive the nations and will gather people from the four corners of the earth to wage battle. They will surround “the encampment of the saints, the beloved city.” (20:9b) But just like the battle of Armageddon, they will be shut down before they can attack: “Then fire came down from heaven and consumed them. The devil who deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur where the beast and the false prophet are, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.” (Revelation 20:9c-10) This is the last we’ll see of the unholy trinity—it’s the final defeat of the dragon and the two beasts. Sin, death, Satan and all the brokenness they bring have been overcome by God’s power and justice. That’s worthy of a Hallelujah!

The Sixth Sight (20:11-14): Next John describes a scene we often fear and misunderstand—the final judgement. “Then I saw a great white throne and one seated on it… I also saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life, and the dead were judged according to their works by what was written in the books… And anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.” (20:11a, 12, 15) This is the fourth time we’ve seen the book of life in one of John’s visions (see 3:5, 13:8, 17:8) With every mention, we’re given assurance that those whose names are written in it have nothing to fear.

Jesus uses three parables to describe different aspects of judgement day in Matthew 25: The Parables of the Ten Virgins, the Talents, and the Sheep and the Goats. Each one emphasizes the importance of living in a way that honors the Lord and anticipates His return. From beginning to end, Scripture makes it clear that the way we live and treat others matters. We show we belong to God by keeping His commandments. On judgement day we’ll be called to account for all that we’ve done, but by God’s grace, we can stand before His throne and claim righteousness through the atoning sacrifice of Christ’s blood.

The Seventh Sight (21:1-8): John sees a new heaven and a new earth and a new Jerusalem coming down out of heaven. He hears a voice from the throne saying “Look, God’s dwelling is with humanity, and he will live with them. They will be his peoples, and God himself will be with them and will be their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; grief, crying, and pain will be no more, because the previous things have passed away.” (21:3-4)

The Lord comes down from heaven to reveal Himself many times in Scripture but people repeatedly rebel and follow their own desires. Here, at the end of time, we see Him coming down once more. Only this time, He’ll be here to stay and will redeem our broken and fallen world once and for all.

Take a moment to ponder this incredible truth. Consider how you can live in a way that honors the Lord and brings His hope to our broken world. (And keep an eye out for my next post that will bring us all the way to the end of Revelation 22.)

*gotquestions.org “Why is Jesus going to return on a white horse?” 

**gotquestions.org “What is the meaning of the two edged sword coming out of Jesus’ mount in Revelation 1:16?”  

Jen Wilkin, Revelation: Eternal King, Everlasting Kingdom, Lifeway Press, 2024.

All Scripture quoted from the Christian Standard Bible (CSB), unless noted otherwise.

To access Matt Chandler’s sermon on this portion of Revelation, click here.

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Seven Words of Woe

So far in the book of Revelation we’ve studied seven churches, seven seals, seven trumpets, seven histories, and seven bowls. Now, we’ll contemplate seven words of woe regarding Babylon. Jen Wilkin explains, “John uses Babylon symbolically to represent all ruling empires…In chapters 17 and 18 we hear about Babylon’s downfall at length, examining the nature of her sins, the extent of her rule, and the outcry of her destruction.” (115)

John begins Revelation 17 describing a vision of a woman and the scarlet beast. She personifies the spirit of Babylon–everything detestable, blasphemous, and impure in the world. The chapter opens with one of the seven angels with seven bowls showing John “the judgement of the notorious prostitute who is seated on many waters.” (17:1b) Jen Wilkin explains that waters symbolize opportunities for commerce and communication– showing the vast reach of Babylon’s influence on the world.

In his vision John sees the woman “sitting on a scarlet beast that was covered with blasphemous names.” (17:3b) An identical description from Revelation 13:1, clarifies the beast she rides is the Antichrist. “The woman was dressed in purple and scarlet, adorned with gold, jewels, and pearls. She had a golden cup in her hand filled with everything detestable and with the impurities of her prostitution.” She makes no secret of who she is, bearing her names on her forehead: “Babylon the Great, the Mother of Prostitutes and of the Detestable Things of the Earth.” (17:4 & 5) She gloats with satisfaction over her revolting behavior that has cost the lives of God’s beloved people: “Then I saw that the woman was drunk with the blood of the saints and with the blood of the witnesses to Jesus.” (17:4-6a)

The enemy uses her to deceive people with the allure of worldly pleasures but lurking underneath the glitter is the stench of death. “The kings of the earth committed sexual immorality with her, and those who live on the earth became drunk on the wine of her sexual immorality.” (17:2) The sin of sexual immorality highlighted here links with idolatry–both involve seeking satisfaction and fulfillment outside the Lord’s wise boundaries. People taken in by the seduction of the Mother of Prostitutes want to satiate their desires more than they want to wait for God’s good plans to unfold. They scoff at the fruit of the Spirit choosing lust, temporary happiness, numbness, urgency, self-indulgence, evil, infidelity, harshness, and impulsivity over love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). The prostitute dripping with jewels and fine clothing captivates many, but the cup she holds is “filled with everything detestable and with the impurities of her prostitution.” (17:4b) How does the lure of temporary satisfaction play out in your life? What spiritual tools can you employ to resist that urge?

John’s vision continues: “The beast that you saw was, and is not, and is about to come up from the abyss and go to destruction. Those who live on the earth whose names have not been written in the book of life from the foundation of the world will be astonished when they see the beast that was, and is not, and is to come.” (17:8) This vision circles back on the fatally wounded beast who is healed—the Antichrist mimicking Christ’s resurrection and astonishing earth dwellers in the process. John warns believers not to fall for the deception: “This calls for a mind that has wisdom.” (17:9)

Next, in verses 9-11,  John sees the woman seated on seven mountains that represent seven kings in verses 9-11. These kings likely symbolize kingdoms from the past, present, and future. Keep in mind that according to Pastor Matt Chandler, John’s visions aren’t necessarily chronological–they are more like looking into windows of a house and seeing several of the same rooms from different angles.*

The vision continues by explaining that the Antichrist will raise up a group of worldly powers: “ten kings who have not yet received a kingdom, but they will receive authority as kings with the beast for one hour. These have one purpose, and they give their power and authority to the beast. These will make war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will conquer them because he is the Lord of Lords and the King of kings. Those with him are called, chosen, and faithful.” (17:12b-14)

While we may not know the identity of the kings or the timing of their reign, we do know they are aligned with the enemy, rule for a short time, and are defeated by Christ. Ironically, the kings and the beast then turn on the woman: “They will make her desolate and naked, devour her flesh, and burn her up with fire.” (17:16) Perhaps the enemy no longer needs the enticement of the prostitute’s charms because people have so fully embraced everything detestable. The chapter ends clarifying the symbolism of John’s vision: “the woman you saw is the great city that has royal power over the kings of the earth.” (17:18)

With the prelude in chapter 17 complete, chapters 18 through 19:10 launch into the seven words of woe:

First Word of Woe (18:1-3): An angel announces that Babylon, personifying worldly powers and ideals, has fallen. “For all the nations have drunk the wine of her sexual immorality, which brings wrath. The kings of the earth have committed sexual immorality with her, and the merchants of the earth have grown wealthy from her sensuality and excess.” (18:3-4) This echoes a prophecy from Jeremiah 50 & 51 and also calls to mind Paul’s warning in another New Testament book: “But those who want to be rich fall into temptation, a trap, and many foolish and harmful desires, which plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, and by craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.” (1 Timothy 6:9-10)

Second Word of Woe (18:4-8): Again paralleling prophecies in Jeremiah 50 & 51, another voice from heaven says, “Come out of her, my people, so that you will not share in her sins or receive any of her plagues…As much as she glorified herself and indulged her sensual and excessive ways, give her that much torment and grief…For this reason her plagues will come in just one day—death and grief and famine. She will be burned up with fire, because the Lord God who judges her is mighty.” (18:4b, 7a, 8) This warning for followers of God to reject the worldly ways of Babylon and remove themselves from the coming wrath may remind you of Lot’s family fleeing the destruction of Sodom in Genesis 19. Where might you need to reject worldly perspectives that have influenced your thoughts and actions?

Third, Fourth, and Fifth Woes (18:9-20): Here John witnesses the reactions of the kings, merchants, and seafaring people who have prospered from Babylon’s sin and excess. Rather than being humbled by God’s wrath, they stand far off watching the city burn and lament all that they’ve lost saying, “Woe, woe, the great city, Babylon, the mighty city! For in a single hour your judgement has come…Woe, woe, the great city, dressed in fine linen, purple, and scarlet, adorned with gold, jewels, and pearls; for in a single hour such fabulous wealth was destroyed…They threw dust on their heads and kept crying out, weeping, and mourning” because they became rich from her wealth. (18:10b, 16, 19a) They don’t grieve over the loss of life or repent from their greed, they mourn the destruction of their wealth and the source from which it came.

Perhaps all of the lamenting should prompt some personal reflection for each of us. Jen Wilkin comments that “Christians are by no means immune to the allurement of the kingdom of this world.” (128).  John writes words of warning about this in one of his epistles: “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride in one’s possessions—is not from the Father, but is from the world. And the world with its lust is passing away, but the one who does the will of God remains forever.” (1 John 2:15-17) Is there a worldly ideal or tangible object that you may be grasping tightly that needs to be relinquished to the Lord?

Sixth Woe (18:21-24): “Then a mighty angel picked up a stone like a large millstone and threw it into the seas, saying, ‘In this way, Babylon the great city will be thrown down violently and never be found again.’” (18:21) Never again will the city be a center for beauty, industry, sustenance, safety, or raising future generations. (Paraphrased from Jen Wilkin’s Week 8 teaching on 18:22.) In a final pronouncement, John writes “All this will happen because your merchants were the nobility of the earth, because all the nations were deceived by your sorcery.” (18:23b) Let that last verse sink in— it is ungodly merchants who hold all the power and deceive the rest of the world with the allure of material possessions, pleasurable experiences, comfort, and excess. We don’t have to look far to see the hold greed and materialism have on the world today. Take a moment to pray and ask the Spirit to reveal where they have a hold on you.

Seventh Word (19:1-10): Rather than being a word of woe, the final word declares God’s victory over Babylon and all that she represents. “Hallelujah! Salvation, glory, and power belong to our God, because his judgments are true and righteous, because he has judged the notorious prostitute who corrupted the earth with her sexual immorality; and he has avenged the blood of his servants that was on her hands.” (19:1b-2) Jen Wilkin explains that the proper response to the judgement of Babylon is praise. It is the cry of celebration that God’s towering justice has been executed. (Paraphrased from Week 8 teaching.)

With the prostitute of Babylon stripped bare and destroyed, John describes what unfolds next in God’s throne room: “Then I heard something like the voice of a vast multitude, like the sound of cascading waters, and like the rumbling of loud thunder, saying, ‘Hallelujah, because our Lord God, the Almighty, reigns! Let us be glad, rejoice, and give him glory, because the marriage of the Lamb has come, and his bride has prepared herself. She was given fine linen to wear, bright and pure. For the fine linen represents the righteous acts of the saints.’” (19:6-8) A radiant bride who has prepared for her groom personifies those justified  by Christ’s blood (Romans 3:22-4) and sanctified by walking worthy of Him (Ephesians 4:1, Philippians 2:12-13). They have persevered in waiting patiently and faithfully for their groom and rejoice at being unified with Him in the throne room. The city of folly, sin, and death has been destroyed and is being replaced by the city of wisdom, righteousness, and abundant life. Consider this incredible future reality. How are you preparing now for the day of Christ’s triumphant return?

Jen Wilkin, Revelation: Eternal King, Everlasting Kingdom, Lifeway Press, 2024.

All Scripture quoted from the Christian Standard Bible (CSB), unless noted otherwise.

To access Matt Chandler’s sermon series on Revelation, click here. 

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From Beginning to Forever

Each week as we’ve studied Elizabeth Woodson’s From Beginning to Forever the lesson has ended with an opportunity to summarize the portions of Scripture covered that week. So, by the end of the study, participants have written an overview of the entire Bible. Following the chapters of the study, here’s my humble attempt at re-telling the highlights of the grand narrative of Scripture:

The Creation and Corruption of the Kingdom: Genesis

In the beginning God creates the heavens, the earth and everything in them including the sun, moon, stars, plants, animals, and people. God creates humans in His image and tells them to multiply His kingdom and to rule and subdue the earth. The first two humans, Adam and Eve, succumb to temptation and choose to do the one forbidden thing—eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. This breaks their fellowship with God and brings the pollution of sin into the pure and perfect world. God promises one day Eve’s offspring will crush the serpent who led them to sin, giving the first prophecy of the Messiah.

A Promise to Restore the Kingdom: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy

God makes a covenant with Abraham promising him land, numerous descendants, and blessing that will impact all people on earth. The Lord confirms this covenant with Abraham’s son, Isaac, and his grandson, Jacob. God changes Jacob’s name to Israel (although both names continue to be used interchangeably after this.) Later, Jacob’s sons sell their brother, Joseph, to slave traders who take him to Egypt. After many trials, Joseph becomes second in command of Egypt and, through God’s direction, prepares the country for a severe famine. The rest of Jacob’s family later emigrates to Egypt to escape the famine. After several generations Jacob’s descendants (known as Hebrews or Israelites) became slaves in Egypt. About 400 years later, God uses Moses to deliver the Israelites from slavery, to lead them to the promised land, and to help them become a distinct nation with clear laws and boundaries.

A Divided Kingdom: Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 & 2 Kings, 1 & 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther

After 40 years in the desert, Joshua leads the Israelites into the promised land to take possession of it and fulfill God’s promise. A series of judges rule Israel until the people demand a king. Saul becomes the first king, but his disobedience displeases God and he loses His favor. David becomes the next king. Although he’s imperfect, he seeks to follow God’s heart and the Lord promises his offspring will rule eternally, foreshadowing the Messiah. Solomon succeeds David as king and is wise and wealthy, but unfaithful to God by marrying Gentiles and worshipping their gods. The kingdom divides when Solomon’s foolish son, Rehoboam, becomes king (the northern kingdom is called Israel, the southern kingdom is called Judah). Disobedience causes both kingdoms to be taken captive about 130 years apart–the northern kingdom is exiled to Assyria and the southern kingdom is exiled to Babylon. After exile, King Cyrus of Persia allows the Jews of the southern kingdom to return and rebuild their temple in Jerusalem under Ezra’s leadership and King Artaxerxes of the citadel of Susa allows the rebuilding of the city walls under Nehemiah’s leadership. The Israelites continue to struggle with disobedience and worship of false gods through subsequent generations.

Life in the Kingdom: Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs

Wisdom literature in Job, Psalms, and Proverbs provides guidance, encouragement, and warning for people living in the time period covered in the previous section. These writings give a framework for a life of flourishing that includes: 1) acquiring wisdom and following the law 2) fearing the Lord 3) submitting to suffering. Prophets enforce God’s covenants and remind people of the blessings and curses God will bring as a result of their obedience or disobedience. The Israelites are supposed to exemplify God’s love and faithfulness but worship idols and participate in sin and social injustice instead. As a consequence, God exiles them to Assyria and Babylon (mentioned in the previous section). Prophets give the people hope that a Messiah will come to bring salvation and restore them. Despite their sinfulness, the Lord continues to be faithful.

The Arrival of the King: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John

God remains silent for 400 years between the books of Malachi and Matthew. The New Testament opens with the birth of the promised Messiah, Jesus.  Throughout the course of His life He fulfills all the prophecies and covenants related to the Messiah in the Old Testament, overcomes temptation, and remains sinless. During His years of ministry He heals people, casts out demons, brings dead people back to life, and preaches about the kingdom of God. Jesus teaches that belief in Him will bring eternal life and reconciliation with God, His Father. Despite His innocence, Jewish leaders accuse Him of blasphemy and convince the Romans to charge Him with treason and crucify Him. Three days after dying on the cross, Jesus resurrects from death and appears to many of His followers to give them final instructions and prepare them  for the arrival of His Holy Spirit.

The Kingdom Community: Acts thru Jude

Before ascending into heaven, Jesus gives His followers the mission to go make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit and teaching the to obey everything He commands. His followers receive the Holy Spirit and become witnesses for Him in Jerusalem, Judea, and beyond. In the book of Acts God shows Peter that the gospel is for everyone–Jews and Gentiles can both be included in the family of God through Christ. Paul preaches the gospel far and wide to both Jews and Gentiles, teaching them that they are saved through faith in Jesus by God’s grace. The epistles explain God’s call for  believers to be ambassadors of Christ and to walk worthy of their calling in Him. Additionally, the epistles warn against false teaching and encourage believers in the midst of the trials and persecution they face while living as aliens and strangers in the world.

 The Kingdom is Restored: Revelation

Exiled on the Island of Patmos, the elderly Apostle John receives a series of visions revealing events that will unfold before and during Jesus’ return to earth. In his vision, John witnesses the throne room of heaven, God’s wrath poured out on rebellious and sinful people, the final judgement, the defeat of Satan, and the physical return of Christ. John sees the old heaven and earth pass away and the merging of a new heaven and earth. In the New Jerusalem God dwells with His people and Jesus rules and reigns with them for eternity. The shalom of the garden is finally restored and God’s plans and purposes prevail.

Understanding the Kingdom- A Worthy Endeavor

I’ve been learning about the Bible all of my life, have read it from start to finish several times, and have been studying it consistently for the past 25 years. Despite all of this time in God’s Word, I’ve never been able to summarize it like this before (shout out to Elizabeth Woodson for crafting a study that made it possible for me to give this overview). The more I learn, the more I realize how beautiful and multi-faceted Scripture is.  Reading it, believing it, and applying it is truly a worthy endeavor. God’s Word is living and active; it shows us everything needed to live a life of purpose and flourishing now and forevermore.

Elizabeth Woodson, From Beginning to Forever: A Study of the Grand Narrative of Scripture, Lifeway Press, 2022.

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The Kingdom Community

My family rented a movie recently that received a lot of hype when it released a few months ago. Having enjoyed a live version on stage, I was curious to see how it translated to the silver screen. From my comfortable spot on the couch, I was transported  by talented actors and memorable music into a vivid fictional world. As the dramatic final scene closed, “To be continued” unfurled in large script across the screen, leaving me wanting more. The movie had ended, but the story was far from over.

Thankfully, with the Bible we don’t have to wait for the sequel to the amazing life of Jesus described in the gospels. Acts picks up where the four books leave off. Written by Luke, Acts opens with Jesus giving instructions and a final command to His disciples before ascending into heaven: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8, NIV) Elizabeth Woodson explains in From Beginning to Forever, “For Jesus’s followers, the filling of the Holy Spirit marked a new season of ministry, when the King was dwelling with His people once again. And not only with them but in them!” (p. 153) In the book of Acts we see disciples of Jesus demonstrate power and authority as they heal people, cast out demons, confront false teachers, and preach the gospel. They also experience significant persecution that scatters them beyond Jerusalem. New leaders and teachers join their ranks, including a hateful Pharisee turned humble teacher named Paul. (If you’re unfamiliar with Acts, check out the series of posts I wrote by clicking here.)

Following Acts, the rest of the New Testament includes Pauline Epistles (letters written to believers by Paul) and General Epistles (letters written to believers by other authors). “Both sets provide believers with wisdom, encouragement, and theological truth meant to keep them aligned to the gospel.” (p. 157) Let’s consider a few key themes covered in the Epistles.

Pauline Epistles: Thirteen books of the New Testament claim Paul as their author: Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 & 2 Thessalonians, 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus, and Philemon. “Paul taught on the kingship of Christ and reminded believers of what it takes to access Christ’s kingdom community. His teaching also helps believers understand how to live as citizens in the kingdom who are on mission for the King.” (p. 157) With his vast knowledge of Hebrew Scripture, Paul helps readers to understand the deep significance of Jesus and all that He fulfilled as the promised Messiah. It’s hard to narrow down the many important topics he addresses, but here are a few:

  • Jesus as image of the invisible God who was present at  creation (Colossians 1)
  • Jesus as the servant who willingly humbled Himself by becoming a man and dying on the cross (Philippians 2)
  • Jesus as the one who atoned for the sins of humankind and made it possible for fallen people to be reconciled to a holy God (Romans 8)
  • Jesus as the One who made it possible for us to be righteous before God (2 Corinthians 5)
  • Jesus as the head of the church (1 Corinthians 3, Ephesians 2)

Through his explanations, Paul urges believers to “follow the commands of God out of gratitude, not obligation…[to] live as transformed people who have been freed from the eternal penalty of sin!” (p. 160). Paul admonishes believers to see themselves as the building blocks of a holy temple and to walk in a manner worthy of their calling (Ephesians 2, 4 & 5). He spells out what it means to cast off our old selves and to put on our new selves (Colossians 3). “Paul’s letters guided believers to order every area of their lives to live worthy of the gospel (Phil. 1:27), setting our minds on the King (Col 3:2), bearing spiritual fruit (Col 1:10), and denying the desires of our flesh (Gal 5:24).” (p. 165) His letters show that when Christ rules our hearts and God’s Word dwells in our minds, our attitudes, words, and actions will align with His truth.

General Epistles: Written by several authors, all but one of these books bear their names: James (the brother of Jesus), 1 & 2 Peter (the Apostle Peter), 1,2,3 John (the Apostle John) and Jude (the brother of Jesus). The one exception is Hebrews, whose authorship is still subject to debate. These writings center on “life in the kingdom community as well, with a focus on what it means to live in allegiance to the King in the last days.” (p. 157) Understanding the tension of “living in-between the first and second comings of Jesus in a world desperate for the King to return…The authors of these books…provided the kingdom community with an overflow of wisdom to help us live well as we wait.” (p. 167) Here are a few of the many important topics they address:

  • Remaining unwavering in our faith and pursuit of Jesus (Hebrews 10, 12)
  • Enduring trials with joy as they build our faith, teach us perseverance, and lead us to maturity (James 1)
  • Undergoing persecution with an eternal perspective (1 Peter 1)
  • Living as holy and chosen people (1 Peter 2)
  • Understanding the depth of God’s love and His greatness (1, 2, 3 John)
  • Contending for our faith and internalizing truth so that we will not be deceived (Jude)

“The kingdom community dwells with the King, lives like the King, while executing the mission of the King. Who we are internally impacts the ministry we can do externally. Our ability to persevere on this side of eternity will be met with treasures in life everlasting.” (p. 171). The more we study His Word, the more we will understand God’s character, our identity, and the way to flourish in the present as we prepare for eternity.

We’ve covered a lot of ground in this post and are closing in on the final book of the Bible: Revelation. It ties together so many elements of Scripture, I can’t wait to hit the highlights with you in my next post (and to take a deeper dive in conjunction with Jen Wilkin’s Revelation study this spring.)

While overviews like this are helpful, true transformation happens when you open the Bible and let God reveal Himself to you directly. Every minute invested in studying Scripture  is worth the effort. Consistent engagement is the key to spiritual growth– it’s the only part of your daily rhythm that will last all the way to eternity.

Was this forwarded to you? You can receive new posts automatically in your inbox by going to www.marybethmccullum.com, entering your e-mail address and clicking “subscribe.”

Elizabeth Woodson, From Beginning to Forever: A Study of the Grand Narrative of Scripture, Lifeway Press, 2022.

Spotlighting the Savior

With his signature red and white striped beanie, matching sweater, and Coke bottle glasses, most of us would recognize the title character of Where’s Waldo anywhere. If you’re unfamiliar, these “spotlight search” children’s books contain detailed illustrations that always include Waldo hiding in plain sight. Author and illustrator Martin Handford delights readers with his creative scenes on each page.

At the risk of sounding irreverent, prophecies of Jesus in the Old Testament remind me of Waldo as they foreshadow the arrival of the Messiah.  Many of the references to Christ are easy to miss without a “spotlight search.” Here are a few we’ve touched on as we’ve studied the grand narrative of Scripture in Elizabeth Woodson’s From Beginning to Forever:

1) Serpent Crusher: After Adam and Eve disobey God and open the world to sin, the Lord pronounces a curse on the serpent that deceived them: “And I will put enmity between you and the woman and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” (Genesis 3:15, NIV) God promises that the ongoing conflict between the enemy and humankind will one day end with Eve’s offspring crushing him. In our “spotlight search,” this is the first reference to the Messiah who would conquer the enemy and reconcile fallen humans with their perfect Creator.

2) Blessing for All People: Later, in Genesis 12 God makes a covenant with Abraham (called Abram at that time) that spotlights the One who will bring blessing to all the earth: “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” (Genesis 12:2-3, NIV) Here the Lord promises that through Abraham’s offspring the entire earth will be blessed. The Lord confirms this promise with Isaac and Jacob.

3) Eternal King: Continuing on in Scripture, the Lord spotlights the Messiah again when He makes a covenant with King David: “Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever.” (2 Samuel 8:16, NIV) He promises a king greater than David who will one day rule “Israel perfectly for the glory of God.” (Woodson, 79)

4) Savior: Many prophets also foretell the coming Savior throughout the Old Testament, as we see Isaiah spotlight in this familiar passage: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6, NIV)

Four hundred years of history unfold for the Israelites with no written record between Malachi at the end of the Old Testament and Matthew at the start of the New Testament. The silence breaks with the gospels; each of the four highlight different aspects of Jesus’ life and reveal Him as the fulfillment of prophecies about the Messiah. All four present Jesus as the sinless One who died to save sinners. While there are overlapping stories among them, each gospel writer emphasizes certain aspects of Jesus; together they provide a complete testimony. Let’s examine a few key parts of Jesus’ life that they spotlight:

Matthew: “Matthew, writing to a Jewish audience, emphasizes Jesus’ fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, proving that He is the long-awaited Messiah.”* For the Jewish people, ancestry was everything. Matthew opens his book  with the genealogy of Jesus to confirm that He is in the family line of the Messiah. Interestingly, he also lists five women in the genealogy, including three Gentiles, revealing the Lord’s intention to be a blessing to “all peoples on earth” as He promised to Abraham.

Mark: “Mark writes a fast-paced, condensed account, recording Jesus’ miraculous deeds and not recording His long discourses.”* Filled with action, Mark’s gospel reveals Jesus’ authority over both the physical and spiritual realms as He heals people, casts out demons, calms storms, and feeds thousands with a few loaves and fish. Mark also records key declarations such as Peter telling Jesus: “You are the Messiah” (Mark 8:29b) and a centurion exclaiming at His crucifixion, “Surely this man was the Son of God!” (Mark 8:39b, NIV)

Luke: “Luke portrays Jesus as the remedy of the world’s ills, emphasizing His perfect humanity and humane concern for the weak, the suffering, and the outcast.”* This gospel includes the most comprehensive version of the Christmas story (Matthew includes other aspects of it.) Luke also shows Jesus revealing Himself as the Messiah when He reads a prophecy from Scripture aloud in the synagogue: “’The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.’ Then [Jesus] rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him. He began by saying to them, ‘Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing’.” (Luke 4:18-21, NIV)

John: “John emphasizes Jesus’ deity by selecting many conversations and sayings of Jesus on the subject and also including ‘signs’ that prove He is the Son of God.”* John uses Old Testament language to reveal Jesus as the Christ, starting his book with a familiar phrase from Genesis: “In the beginning.” (John 1:1a, NIV) John’s gospel also includes the seven “I am” statements of Jesus, echoing the Lord’s words when Moses encounters Him speaking from a burning bush and identifies Himself as “I AM WHO I AM” (Exodus 3:14, NIV) Among Jesus’ most important statements about Himself, John records Him saying: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6, NIV) and “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die;” (John 11:25, NIV)

John sums up the intention of all four gospels: “But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.” (John 20:31, NIV)

May this “spotlight search” of the Messiah leave you with no doubt that Jesus is the Savior for our fallen, broken world. And may this head knowledge lead to a deep heart connection with the One who gave Himself for you.

*Quotes describing the four gospels from: https://www.gotquestions.org/different-gospel.html

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Elizabeth Woodson, From Beginning to Forever: A Study of the Grand Narrative of Scripture, Lifeway Press, 2022.

Heaven’s View of Christmas

Each December we read the beloved story of Christmas from the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. We remember Mary and Joseph, shepherds and angels, wise men and the star, and, of course, baby Jesus. We find comfort and hope in the familiar plot, people, and places. But this year, I heard a sermon with a new perspective on the Christmas story that’s straight from Scripture, but often overlooked. It’s a narrative that steps back to give us a broader view of Christ’s birth from the perspective of heaven.

The apostle John, known as “the disciple Jesus loved” wrote the book of Revelation while in exile at the end of his life. He wrote about visions and prophecies revealed to him by God to give hope and encouragement to persecuted believers around the world. In his vision from chapter 12, John describes the birth of Christ. One aspect of this incredible event we rarely consider is the cosmic conflict that it caused:

“A great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head. She was pregnant and cried out in pain as she was about to give birth. Then another sign appeared in heaven: an enormous red dragon with seven heads and ten horns and seven crowns on its heads. Its tail swept a third of the stars out of the sky and flung them to the earth. The dragon stood in front of the woman who was about to give birth, so that it might devour her child the moment he was born. She gave birth to a son, a male child, who ‘will rule all the nations with an iron scepter.’ And her child was snatched up to God and to his throne… Then war broke out in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven. The great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.” (Revelation 12:1-9, NIV)

Pastor Rick Atchley contends that the woman in John’s vision represents both Israel and Jesus’ mother, Mary, who birthed the Messiah as the Savior for all of humankind. He believes that the Revelation passage describes Christ’s birth and the devil’s attempt to intervene and prevent Him from fulfilling the purposes for which He was born. War breaks out between God and Satan and the enemy ultimately is cast out of heaven and hurled to earth with his minions. 

Christ’s birth from heaven’s perspective shows us that there is a huge story playing out. There is a dark lord fighting against a promised King. But the outcome of their conflict has already been determined:

“Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: ‘Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Messiah. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down. They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death. Therefore rejoice, you heavens and you who dwell in them! But woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury, because he knows that his time is short’…  Then the dragon was enraged at the woman and went off to wage war against the rest of her offspring—those who keep God’s commands and hold fast their testimony about Jesus.” (Revelation 12:10-12, 17, NIV)

Bible scholars have differing opinions on the time frames and specifics for the events described in the passage above. Regardless, the vision helps us to understand why bad things happen to us even though Jesus was victorious. It’s because we still contend with an unseen reality: the devil who roams the earth. He is the one behind all the hurt, pain, and evil in this world. The dragon knows Jesus was born to rule the earth and he knows God’s kingdom is invincible, but he will continue to wage war and spread misery on the earth until Jesus returns.

Right now, there’s an ongoing battle all around us in the spiritual realm: “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12, NIV) All people on earth in every generation get to decide which side of the battle they want to be on, but only one of the opponents will stand the test of time: “Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever!” (Revelation 1:5 & 6, NIV)

Celebrating Christmas reminds us the enemy’s reign has an expiration date. Regardless of which interpretation of Revelation we align with, we can be encouraged by taking a bigger view of Jesus when we face earthly problems and struggles. We can remind ourselves that the King of Kings who conquered death will one day rule all nations and make all things right. We can rejoice that our true hope isn’t in human empires or worldly comforts but in the absolute sovereignty of Christ. 

Before Pastor Atchley’s sermon begins, a short video depicts a classic nativity scene with Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus. As the narrator speaks, the camera pulls back to reveal angels singing above the manger and then further still to reveal stars, constellations, a throne and a dragon. The narrator describes each scene saying: “There’s the story we know: The King of Kings born in a lowly manger. But the story we know is part of a bigger story. A story that unfolds not just in a stable, but on the stage of history played out among the stars and the heavenly hosts. It’s a story of cosmic conflict; of good and evil locked in battle; of a victorious king enthroned forever. The story we know reaches far beyond the little town of Bethlehem into every corner of the cosmos.”1

May this Christmas leave you in awe that the King of Kings who existed before time began came to earth to rescue and redeem us and give us everlasting hope. Let “King of Kings” by Hillsong Worship give you a moment to stop and praise God for this incredible truth. Click here to listen.

1. “A Cosmic King” Series: Cosmic Christmas, Rick Atchely, The Hills Church. Click here to watch the full sermon. 

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Passover Parallels

The more I study the Bible, the more I marvel at how seamlessly it weaves together God’s plan of deliverance for all people. The story of the first Passover in Exodus 11 & 12 includes so many rich symbols that point the way to Jesus in the New Testament. There are incredible parallels between the tenth and final plague in Egypt and Jesus’ blood that was shed to save humankind. For me, this magnifies God’s capacity to focus on vast plans and intimate details at the same time. Rather than trying to explain or interpret the similarities between the deliverance of the Israelites and the deliverance of all people from sin, I’m going to let the Scriptures speak for themselves. If you’re unfamiliar with the story of the first Passover, take a peek at Exodus 11 & 12 for fuller context. 

Death of Firstborn

“Every firstborn son in Egypt will die, from the firstborn son of Pharaoh, who sits on the throne, to the firstborn son of the female slave, who is at her hand mill, and all the firstborn of the cattle as well.” (Exodus 11:5)

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)

New Beginning

“This month is to be for you the first month, the first month of your year…Celebrate the Festival of Unleavened Bread, because it was on this very day that I brought your divisions out of Egypt. Celebrate this day as a lasting ordinance for the generations to come.” (Exodus 12:2 & 17)

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Cor 5:17)

Lamb Without Blemish

“Tell the whole community of Israel that on the tenth day of this month each man is to take a lamb for his family, one for each household…The animals you choose must be year-old males without defect, and you may take them from the sheep or the goats. Take care of them until the fourteenth day of the month, when all the members of the community of Israel must slaughter them at twilight.” (Ex 12:3, 5-6)

“The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!’” (John 1:29)

“For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.” (1 Peter 1:18-19)

Saved by Blood

“Then they are to take some of the blood and put it on the sides and tops of the doorframes of the houses where they eat the lambs…The blood will be a sign for you on the houses where you are, and when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No destructive plague will touch you when I strike Egypt.” (Exodus 12:7 & 13)

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him!” (Romans 5:8-9)

“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.” (Ephesians 1:7)

Jesus Celebrates the First Communion Using the Passover Meal

On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Where do you want us to make preparations for you to eat the Passover?”

He replied, “Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, ‘The Teacher says: My appointed time is near. I am going to celebrate the Passover with my disciples at your house.’” So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them and prepared the Passover…

While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.”

Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.”(Matthew 26:17-19, 26-29)

After the tenth plague, the Israelites walk freely out of Egypt and leave slavery behind. After Jesus’ death, everyone who believes in Him walks freely out of the slavery of sin. Click here and celebrate this incredible act of mercy and grace by listening to Micah Tyler’s “Walking Free.”

Post inspired by Jen Wilkin’s God of Deliverance: A Study of Exodus 1-18, Lifeway Press, 2021.

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Light of the World

Pushing aside tissue paper, I reached into the gift bag and pulled out a bright yellow sweatshirt with “Be the light” written on the front. It was an early Christmas gift that brought a colorful reminder of the meaning of this season. We can’t live without light. It nourishes our bodies, souls, and minds. Light helps us to walk confidently. It gives us warmth. It lifts our spirits and guides our paths. It is also something we’re meant to share with others.

Christmas is the season when we celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Light of the World. I love how the twinkling lights on my tree and on buildings all over town remind me of this. Inspired by my new sweatshirt, I thumbed through the pages of Scripture to see how Jesus embodies light and uses it to bring hope in and through us. Let’s explore a few key passages to see this powerful theme woven throughout Scripture.

About 700 years before Jesus, Isaiah prophesied about Him. He described many aspects of the coming Messiah, including using the imagery of light: “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.” (Isaiah 9:2, NIV) Without the light of Jesus, we walk in spiritual darkness. His light gives us hope and purpose in this life and the promise of eternity with Him.

Turning to the New Testament, we see John start off his gospel by referring to Jesus: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:1-5, NIV) Life in Jesus is the source of spiritual light. His light is more powerful than any dark force and has defeated sin. This gives us hope, no matter how dark the world or our circumstances feel at times.

John’s gospel also includes Jesus describing Himself: “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’” (John 8:12, NIV) True life is found only in Jesus. One commentary explains, “Coming to Christ for salvation results in a different kind of life. A believer will never walk in darkness, that is, he will not live in it (12:46, 1 John 1:6-7). He does not remain in the realm of evil and ignorance (John 12:46) for he has Christ as his Light and salvation (Ps. 36:9).”1

John speaks about the power of light again in another New Testament book: “This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” (1 John 1:5-8, NIV) God doesn’t just provide us with light, He is light. As we’re drawn to Him, we’re blessed to join with people who are like-minded. This fellowship with other believers provides us with the comfort and encouragement we need to function in a world filled with darkness and sin.

Knowing God is light and that He gives it to us through Jesus has powerful implications for us as believers. Consider Jesus’ teaching on this in the Sermon on the Mount: “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14-16, NIV) Surrendering our lives to Jesus not only enables us to walk in the light, it lets His light shine through us to bless others. That’s what my new yellow sweatshirt reminds me every time I wear it. What I love about this is that we don’t have to try to be the light—it automatically shines through us when we’re walking with Jesus and aligning with the Holy Spirit.

Peter, another one of Jesus’ disciples, also teaches followers of Jesus about light:  “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” (1 Peter 2:9, NIV) We’ve been called out of darkness and have the blessing and privilege of walking in the warmth, comfort, and hope of God’s light. That’s what we’re celebrating at Christmas!

Peter’s second letter circles us back to the prophecies from the Old Testament about the coming light: “We also have the prophetic message as something completely reliable, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things. For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” (2 Peter 1:19-21, NIV) 

A Bible commentary explains, “Peter told how to derive meaning from God’s Word—pay attention to it. As a Light, God’s written Word has validity and authority…God’s prophetic Word is a Light…shining in a dark place. Though the world is darkened by sin (Isa. 9:2, Eph. 6:12), God’s Word pointing to the future, enlightens believers about His ways…Much as a lamp at night anticipates and is outshined by the bright morning star, so Old Testament prophecy looks ahead to the coming of Christ, ‘the bright Moring Star’ (Rev. 22:16). Until he comes, believers are to let the Scriptures illumine their hearts.”1

So, this Christmas, we celebrate Jesus’ first coming as a baby who was heralded by a special star in the sky, and we anticipate His second coming as the bright Morning Star who will return at the end of days. During this “in between time,” let’s continue basking in the light by drawing near to Him and spending time in His Word.

How about pushing the pause button on the bustle of the season and devoting a few quiet moments to marveling at Jesus as the Light of the World? Be inspired to let His light shine through you wherever you find yourself this season.

Enjoy a worship moment with Lauren Daigle’s “Light of the World.” (I can’t watch this video without shedding a few tears!) Click here to watch.

  1. John F. Walvoord & Roy B. Zuck, The Bible Knowledge Commentary, Victor Books. 1983, pages 303 & 868.

Judah’s Blessing

For the past few months we’ve walked closely with Joseph through Genesis 37-50 and have seen many examples God’s faithfulness. Now, as the end of the story comes into view, we’re beginning to notice many threads of the Lord’s redemptive plan weaving together. Today we’ll take a closer look at a prophetic blessing Jacob gave at the end of his life that still has relevance for us today.

As the favorite son of Jacob, we would expect Joseph to receive the most important blessing. So, it’s surprising to discover that instead, Jacob reserved the most significant blessing for one of Joseph’s older brothers:

“Judah, your brothers will praise you; your hand will be on the neck of your enemies; your father’s sons will bow down to you. You are a lion’s cub, Judah; you return from the prey, my son. Like a lion he crouches and lies down, like a lioness—who dares to rouse him? The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until he to whom it belongs shall come and the obedience of the nations shall be his.” (Genesis 49:8-10, NIV)

Despite being Jacob’s fourth son, Judah received the distinct honor of being the one through whom God’s blessing would continue. Jacob prophesied that the mantle of lordship and power, symbolized by the scepter, would remain in Judah’s family line until “he to whom it belongs” came. He was talking about the Messiah.

Kelly Minter explains, “If I had written the story, no doubt I would have chosen for the Messiah to come through Joseph’s line instead of Judah’s. But God’s grace is on full display here. God sent a Savior through those and to those who don’t deserve it. And He raised up Joseph to save a nation, a foreshadowing of Jesus’ ultimate salvation…The One to whom the kingdom belongs has come. His name is Jesus. He will come again, and all nations will be obedient to Him.” (page 192) Let’s take a moment to unpack this amazing truth together.

The promise of the Messiah whom Jacob describes began with Adam and Eve. We see this when God said that Eve’s offspring would one day crush the head of the serpent, Satan (see Genesis 3:14). The promise continues with Abraham when the Lord says his offspring will be a blessing to all people on earth (see Genesis 12:3). With Abraham’s great-grandson, Judah, we see the Messiah symbolized as a strong lion that will ultimately command the obedience of the nations.

The name “Lion of Judah” next appears in Revelation, the last book of the Bible. In this yet-to-be fulfilled prophesy, the writer, John, describes the Messiah as both a lion and a lamb. In his vision of the heavenly throne room, John sees a scroll in the “right hand of him who was seated on the throne.” He begins to despair because there is no one found worthy to approach the hand of God to take and open the scroll. Others in the vision provide hope to John:

“Then one of the elders said to me, ‘Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals… He went and took the scroll from the right hand of him who sat on the throne. And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of God’s people. And they sang a new song, saying: ‘You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation.’” (Revelation 5:5, 7-9, NIV)

John describes how Jesus, the Messiah, fulfills the prophecies made thousands of years earlier. As the sacrificial lamb, He washes away the stain of sin through His death on the cross, crushing the serpent’s head and claiming His ultimate victory over death. At the same time, Jesus blesses all people on earth by making salvation from sin possible for them. As the lion, He represents the conquering King who will return one day to slay the enemies of God.

Remember the last sentence of Jacob’s blessing for Judah? He says Judah’s family line will rule until One came who would command the obedience of the nations. Now, read this verse from Revelation:

“Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, saying: ‘To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!’” (Revelation 5:13, NIV)

John’s prophesy mirrors Jacob’s—both show that a day will come when the whole earth will have no choice but to bow down and worship at the feet of the Lion of Judah: Jesus.

Stepping back to view the bigger picture gives us deeper understanding of God’s greatness and shows how His perfect plan unfolds in His impeccable timing. Pause for a moment and be amazed by our Savior. The seamlessness of the Bible leaves me in awe. Jesus is woven throughout the pages, from Genesis to Revelation.

So, what’s the appropriate response to this good news? Scripture urges us to join with the many witnesses of God’s faithfulness who have gone before us—people we’ve been studying in Genesis like Jacob and Joseph who are also mentioned in the “Hall of Faith” in Hebrews 11. As we remember their stories displaying God’s faithfulness, we choose to “strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up” and “run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.” (Hebrews 12:1-2, NLT)

As Christ’s followers, we can marvel at the finished work of the cross and celebrate the riches we have in Him. Every day is a new opportunity to run with our gaze fixed on Jesus, to honor Him through the way we live, and to be filled with hope as we await His eventual return.

Revel in God’s redemptive plan that threads from Genesis to Revelation by enjoying “The Lion and the Lamb” by Big Daddy Weave.

Kelly Minter, Finding God Faithful: A Study on the Life of Joseph, Lifeway Press, 2019.

*Some material for this blog came from: http://www.gotquestions.org/Lion-and-the-Lamb.html

Lion drawing by Brooke McCullum

After God’s Heart

David wrote almost half of the 150 Psalms recorded in the Bible. Through them, we see a window into his heart and mind. We identify with his humanity as he shares authentically about his triumphs and struggles. It’s difficult to choose a favorite from among the many he’s written, but Psalm 23 might be the most well-known. Chances are high you’ve heard it in a funeral service at some point.

In the opening chapter of Psalm 23: The Shepherd with Me, Bible teacher Jennifer Rotschild gives us some background on King David and his famous psalm. She explains that Psalm 23 may have been written near the end of his reign while he was fleeing from his son, Absalom, who was attempting to overthrow him. Rothschild mentions that Scripture refers to David as “a man after [God’s] own heart.” (1 Samuel 13:14)

Like most people, I assumed this meant that David had an especially deep connection to God—that he relentlessly pursued His heart. And yet, if you know David’s life story, it’s clear he didn’t always do what pleased or honored the Lord. 

Author and pastor René Schlaepfer helped shed some light on this for me. In his book Chasing David, he explains “That David is a ‘man after God’s heart’ means David is God’s choice, a man God’s heart has gone after.” He quotes Hebrew Bible scholar Sandra Richter who says: “Although most interpret this phrase to mean that David had a particularly deep affection for Yahweh or that David had bent his will after Yahweh’s, in reality, this text reflects..David is ‘a king of God’s choosing.’” (“Yahweh” is the Hebrew name for God.) Schlaepfer concludes, “It’s not just a verse about David’s heart; it’s a verse about God’s heart. His heart went after David.” (p. 35)

Despite being a mighty king, David recognizes his dependence on the Lord and celebrates His lavish provision, which he describes in Psalm 23. With humility, he highlights the Lord’s care and protection over him:

“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters, 
he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, 
I will fear no evil, for you are with me; 
your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me 
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
(Psalm 23, NIV)

In this Psalm, David places himself in the inferior position as a sheep under the care of the Lord, his shepherd.  He opens by talking about God, but later shifts and speaks directly to Him, praising Him for His love, faithfulness, and goodness.

 In the New Testament, Jesus also uses the example of a shepherd, but he puts Himself in the place of God, referring to His followers as the sheep in His tender care: “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep.” (John 10:14-15, NIV) Like God with David, Jesus shows throughout the New Testament that His heart is for us—that He has gone after us in the same way the Lord went after David. 

One of the many places Jesus demonstrates His pursuit of us is in this parable: “If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off? And if he finds it, truly I tell you, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off. In the same way, your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish.” (Matthew 18:12-14, NIV)

Do you see the parallels here? Jesus, the shepherd, pursues us just as God sought after David. Maybe it sounds a bit presumptuous, but I think this shows that any follower of Jesus is a person after God’s own heart, just as David was. The fingerprints of His grace are all over this. Jesus’ death on the cross reveals that we are all “people of God’s choosing.” The only thing we have to do is respond to the love He so freely offers.

Listen to Corey Asbury’s “Reckless Love” and reflect on God as the Good Shepherd whose overwhelming, never ending, reckless love pursues you relentlessly.

Jennifer Rothschild, Psalm 23: The Shepherd with Me, Lifeway Press, 2019.

René Schlaepfer, Chasing God: Finding Hope & Courage on the Trail of Israel’s Greatest King, Twin Lakes Press, 2019.

Sandra L. Richter, The Epic of Eden (Downer’s Gover: IVP Academic, 2008), 201.

Shepherd image by Free-Photos from Pixabay.com