Colossians 1:4

because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people—

(v4, NIV)

It's not just their faith that is being heard of, but their love. Paul is hearing of this love that they have for all God's people. This is a love that is so evident that news is even brought to Paul about it. When I think about people who are known for loving, I think of people like Mother Theresa. In addition, I think of mothers in general, who are known for the love and care they show their family. It makes me think of how people know you and identify you. What characteristics would people use to describe you? What will they write about you on your tombstone? Will you be known for your faith in Jesus and the love you have for God's people?

Colossians 1:3-4

We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people—

(v3-4, NIV)

Why is Paul thankful to God when praying for them? In the next verse, we see that it is related to their faith. They have faith in Jesus Christ, which is reason enough to be thankful. When one comes to trust and have faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, this is another welcomed into the Kingdom of God. Jesus tells a few different parables in Luke 15 about this very thing. There is a shepherd with one lost sheep, a woman with one lost coin and a father with a wayward son. There is much effort invested in finding that which was lost and much rejoicing when finding what was lost.

An interesting characteristic of their faith is that they have heard about it. News is reaching Paul about their faith in Jesus. Perhaps the effects of their faith have affected others in such a way that the news is spread to Paul. Perhaps news was brought to them through Epaphras. Either way, their faith was such a faith that Paul even received word about it. This makes me think about my own faith. Is it one that is so apparent that others would hear of in a good way? Of course the idea is not to do things so that other men may see it. However, it is humbling and important to examine and think about whether I am truly living a life worthy of this gospel to which I've been called to. This living up to is not something that would merit salvation, but a natural response to the wonderful, loving gift of grace that comes from him.

Colossians 1:3

We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you,

(v3, NIV)

It's interesting when Paul is thankful for those who he is writing to. In our human nature, it seems odd to be thankful for these people who are somehow messing up or doing something bad. These people aren't following Jesus as they should and Paul often needs to write these letters to help deal with these situations. For example, writing to the Corinthian church, he is thankful for them, but they have so many issues that Paul has to address so you wonder why Paul is thankful for these people who are simply messing up. He is includes thankfulness for those he is writing to in Romans and Philippians. Then again, we need to be reminded that we are all sinners and all fall short of the glory of God. It is also a beautiful thing the way God works in people and the encouragement and fellowship among believers is cause to be thankful for one another. In this particular instance, Paul is directing his thanks to God when praying for them. We can be thankful for one another and complement one another. These are good things and we should be building each other up. However, in the end, the thanks is to God. He is the one who deserves our praise. Be thankful to God and lift up your praises to him.

Colossians 1:2

To God’s holy people in Colossae, the faithful brothers and sisters in Christ:

Grace and peace to you from God our Father.

(v2, NIV)

This church in Colossae had in it followers of Jesus Christ. These are the people whom Paul addresses. Though there were a number of issues that were present at this church, there were still some that were true servants of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is encouraging that though these people were surrounded by such opposition and false teaching, they still remained faithful as Paul describes them.

Grace and peace was a common greeting of Paul. This is in fact Paul's standard greeting and found in all thirteen of his epistles.

Colossians 1:1

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother,

(v1, NIV)

I decided to start with Colossians. This letter was written by Paul to the church at Colosse. This letter was also read in the neighboring church at Laodicea. Paul was apparently in prison at the time, but Timothy was able to be with him as well. There seems to be many issues in this church that Paul has to deal with, like false teachings. I'm sure as this letter is explored; it will unveil more and more. The bible is so good.

1 Corinthians 3:6

I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.

(v6, NIV)

This morning at church, Pastor Kai preached a sermon entitled "How Small is your Church?". It sprung from the initial question most people ask about a person's church, which is typically "how big is your church?". In addition, there are a few misconceptions people have about what church really is. So, he talked about what church is. The passage was Matthew 16:13-20 and one interesting point was about who owns the church or to whom does the church belong to. It is God's church. It made me think about this passage in 1 Corinthians 3. This may be something touched upon in the next sermon, about our personal growth. It is God's church, and it is God who causes it to grow. This passage is not talking about the church as a whole, but even if referring to individuals, it still affects the church since the growth of an individual will affect the entire church. Regardless, it's not really you or me who causes the growth, but it is God. The church is owned by God and he is free to choose what he wants to do with it. Whether he chooses to grow it or not is up to him, and if we allows us to take part in that process, that would be a blessed opportunity for us. Let us remember who causes the growth and give him the glory for the work he does.

Philippians 2:5-8

In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:

Who, being in very nature God,

did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;

rather, he made himself nothing

by taking the very nature of a servant,

being made in human likeness.

And being found in appearance as a man,

he humbled himself

by becoming obedient to death—

even death on a cross!

(v5-8, NIV)

This was one of the verses read at service this morning. I was once again reminded of this awesome passage about Jesus and his humble servant attitude. The sermon was about Jesus, the humble king. I can't even grasp what it was like for Jesus to humble himself to come down to earth as a human. I mean, you can try to compare it to a human becoming an ant, but that doesn't even come close to describe what Jesus did. On top of that, Jesus was doing this according to instruction given to him. It's not like Jesus was simply doing what he wanted on his own accord, but rather, following instruction given to him by the Father. Like, I'm ashamed to say this, but I sometimes have trouble listening to my parents. It's quite a shame being disobedient to my parents, especially when the disobedience is over the smallest things. Yet Jesus shows us his obedience and his humility in extreme measures. I wish I could have his obedience and have his humility. I must simply look to him and hope for his help and strength to obey like him and be humble like him.

Psalms 51:19

Then you will delight in the sacrifices of the righteous,

in burnt offerings offered whole;

then bulls will be offered on your altar.

(v19, NIV)

We get to see another aspect of sacrifices. God will delight in the sacrifices of the righteous. This is of course dependent on what was mentioned previously. However, it specifies that the sacrifice is of the righteous. Therefore, the unrighteous are not included in this description. I guess you shouldn't even bother to bring a sacrifice if you're unrighteous. However, that begs the question of how does on become righteous? We look at our lives and the lives of others and we can confirm that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Being righteous does not merely mean being a "good person". Typically, people are deemed a "good person" relative to everyone else and based upon a narrow view of a person's conduct and behavior. Even if it's a very detailed view of a person's conduct and behavior, this still leaves out their secret thoughts, which are unknown to all except God. It is only through Jesus and his work on the cross that anyone is ever declared righteous. Those declared righteous are those whose sacrifices God delights in.

Psalms 51:18-19

May it please you to prosper Zion,

to build up the walls of Jerusalem.

Then you will delight in the sacrifices of the righteous,

in burnt offerings offered whole;

then bulls will be offered on your altar.

(v18-19, NIV)

It's not until God is pleased to prosper and build up the walls of Jerusalem that he will delight in sacrifices. These aren't sacrifices from anyone, but these are sacrifices of the righteous. If they are righteous, why wouldn't God be delighted in sacrifices from them? This continues to point to the futility of sacrifices depending on other factors. If God isn't pleased to prosper, why would he be pleased with a sacrifice? The focus is on God. It doesn't matter what you bring to God or how good you are, what matters is whether God is willing to accept it or not. If you don't want and don't like relish on your hot dog, you're not going to accept it on your hot dog. Sure, maybe you're willing to bear with it if it's already been placed on it. However, it may be the case that you simply don't like the taste of relish and aren't willing to bear eating a hot dog that has relish on it. It doesn't matter who gives it to you or in what way, it doesn't change the fact that you simply don't like relish. Similarly, if God is unwilling to accept a sacrifice, it doesn't matter how you do it, God isn't going to like it. It's all about God and it isn't really about you and your hokey pokey dance to please God.

Psalms 51:18b

May it please you to prosper Zion,

to build up the walls of Jerusalem.

(18, NIV)

There are a few times when Jerusalem needed to rebuild its walls. They were torn down by their enemies. Without walls, the town is vulnerable and defenseless. If Jerusalem is prosperous, without walls it may easily lose what it gains. Walls would then be to keep it safe and hope to help it continue to prosper. It makes me think about precautions. As someone who struggles with laziness, I have a hard time getting off my butt to take necessary precautions. I'm often defaulting to the lazy and easier solution. However, necessary precautions are important for the future. Putting security measures or building towards the future is important for investing in the future and thinking long term. Short term solutions only help in the short term. Building walls takes a long time and their effects may not be seen immediately. However, when they are needed, you'll be glad you prepared for them. However, let us remember that this is about God and his desire to build up the walls of Jerusalem.

Psalms 51:18

May it please you to prosper Zion,

to build up the walls of Jerusalem.

(v18, NIV)

Zion typically refers to Jerusalem. The second phrase in this verse even refers to Jerusalem. This is God's promised land, promised to Abraham. By asking to prosper Jerusalem, David is asking God to prosper the Israelites. These are God's chosen people and as God's chosen people David hopes that God would want to prosper them. The alternative will be famine and plague and death and destruction. Those things may be punishment as a result of sin. Prosperity often coincided with Israel turning back to God and away from sin. David in seeing the error of his ways is repentant and turning away from his sin. We see his brokenness about the wrong he has done. David hopes for prosperity in tandem with God's delight in his broken and contrite heart.

Psalms 51:17b

My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit;

a broken and contrite heart

you, God, will not despise.

(v17, NIV)

This is the sacrifice that God will not despise. You can know and be sure that if you offer to him a broken and contrite heart, God will not turn it away or dislike it. It is something God will want and enjoy. With Christmas coming, I often think of getting the right presents for people. You don't want to get someone something that they wont want or like. Fortunately, God will certainly like a broken spirit if you offer it to him. Bring that to him and continue to bring that to him

Psalms 51:17

My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit;

a broken and contrite heart

you, God, will not despise.

(v17, NIV)

What is it that God delights in? It is not the burnt offering itself, but a broken spirit. David is bringing forth his sacrifice and it is a broken spirit. David is broken over his sin. He is repentant and wishing he could take it back. He regrets what he did and sees the poor choices he has made. This is his sacrifice and offering to God. He could if he wanted to continue self-righteously living in his ways, ignoring the sin in his life. Instead, he accepts it and is broken about it. This is the offering God desires, not the burnt offerings itself. Be broken about your sin and come to God in that manner. Offer it to him and he will not despise it. There are so many times when I come to God with a list of demands, expecting God to owe me something. This is wrong, I am in the wrong, not justified or deserving of anything in it of myself. It is all him and looking at myself I should continue to realize and be reminded of how sinful I am. I should turn away from it and be broken by it. Be broken and bring it before God.

Psalms 51:16

You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it;

you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings.

(v16, NIV)

Why wouldn't God delight in sacrifice? David is certainly willing to offer it, but he seems to know that God would not be pleased with a burnt offering. God certainly instructs and teaches about burnt offerings in the Old Testament. If they were described and instructed in the Old Testament, why and for what reason would they be there if God does not delight in them? God doesn't even take pleasure in them. What is the purpose of it then? Whether God delights in it or not, there must be a reason behind him instructing it. You may not like lighters, but you may use one to light a candle on a birthday cake to celebrate someone's birthday. In the same way, we get an insight into God and his purposes, seeing that it isn't the sacrifice but something else that God cares about. Therefore, we can't just go around offering sacrifices to God aimlessly and purposelessly expecting God to be pleased with what we're doing.

Psalms 51:15

Open my lips, Lord,

and my mouth will declare your praise.

(v15, NIV)

David says something else that is dependent on God. He requires God to open his lips in order for him to declare his praise. It's interesting that he needs God's intervention in order to declare his praise. Why can't he just praise God without God's opening of his lips? Perhaps we are incapable of praising God without his working in us. Without God, we will continue in sin and continue to sin. I guess we simply do not utter any praise to God, even though he is most deserving of all our praise.

Psalms 51:14b

Deliver me from the guilt of bloodshed, O God,

you who are God my Savior,

and my tongue will sing of your righteousness.

(v14, NIV)

God is the one who delivers. He is the savior. David needs saving and deliverance from the guilt of bloodshed. He is perhaps so overwhelmed by the weight of his sin. God is the one who saves and the deliverer. When he is delivered, David will sing of God's righteousness. God certainly is righteous. Especially when you compare the two you can see how unrighteous David is and how righteous God is. However, how is God righteous if he delivers David? Certainly we read in the bible about how one who justifies the wicked is an abomination. If God saves David, is he an abomination to himself? How can God even do such a thing? Certainly this is shown and answered in the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross; though at the same time, the gospel is never really fully understood. It is such a wealth of truth that is so great. It remains that David will sing of God's righteousness. This certainly makes sense because those who are saved may show gratitude and praise to their savior. This makes me think of how we show our gratitude to God. Are you saved and have you been delivered by God our savior? If you are, do you show your gratitude?

Psalms 51:14

Deliver me from the guilt of bloodshed, O God,

you who are God my Savior,

and my tongue will sing of your righteousness.

(v14, NIV)

David certainly has blood to be guilty for. He feels guilty for the blood of Uriah. He murdered him and he is at fault even though it was not his sword that delivered death to Uriah. When Nathan is speaking his rebuke to David, he plainly describes David as the one who is guilty and responsible for the death of Uriah. David is not hiding behind others, claiming to have not dealt the final blow. Yet it shames me to think of times when I try to do that. There are times when I play word games trying to weasel my way out of the guilt of sin. I try to shift the blame, claiming not to be the one who offered the answers even though I was the one who copied it. Perhaps I would suggest its okay because others are doing it, thus I feel less guilty. This is wrong and we are guilty for the blood we shed and the sins we commit. David knows this well and he is struck with the full weight of his sin by the guilt he feels.

Psalms 51:13b

Then I will teach transgressors your ways,

so that sinners will turn back to you.

(v13, NIV)

When God's ways are taught to transgressors, sinners will turn back to God. We can see this in the events surrounding this Psalm. Nathan approached David and rebuked him for that sin he had committed. He spoke the word of the Lord and David turned back to God. How can anyone turn back to God if they are not taught the ways of God? This goes the same for us. Not only do we need to teach others, but we need to be taught. When a "Nathan" approaches you about sin in your life, will you turn back to God? Learn his ways and see from David's example how we are to act when our sins are revealed.

Psalms 51:13

Then I will teach transgressors your ways,

so that sinners will turn back to you.

(v13, NIV)

Why is it not until "then" that David will teach transgressors God's ways? Why is the teaching of God's ways dependent on other things? David seems to need a pure heart, joy of God's salvation and a willing spirit in order to teach the ways of God. Perhaps it is because David needs to be clean himself before he can teach those who are unclean. If I were a well known thief who continued in that, how could I convince other thieves to stop stealing? I would be a hypocrite if I did that. Instead, I would need to turn from my ways before I could even reach out to them in that manner. David first needs to be clean before he can begin to teach others. In the same way, we need to begin in our cleansing process. We can't tell others about God when our lives look no different than theirs. Sure, we are all sinners and we all fall short. Even as a follower of Jesus Christ we will continue to fall short of his glory. But there needs to be a cleansing or a progression of some sort. Teach others and tell others about his ways.

Psalms 51:12

Restore to me the joy of your salvation

and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.

(v12, NIV)

Why would David want the joy of God's salvation restored? If God's salvation is so great, why would he ever lose his joy for it? We would do best to look at our own lives and think of times when we've lost the joy for something. It could be something as simple as a toy. Perhaps you may have played with it very much when you first received it, but after a while you may get bored of it and stop playing with it. If you are saved, were you ever weakened in your excitement about salvation? There are times when we forget or seem to drift away, clinging to the things of this world. David seems to know that cleansing is not enough. He does ask for cleansing, but if that's all you got, it'd be pointless. We would be cleansed and then go back to sinning. Something needs to change. To fix an old, broken down, rusted car, it isn't enough to just wash and clean the exterior. It may look nice, but maybe the engine would need to be fixed. We need internal cleansing and we need our attitudes and desires changed. David asks for a renewal of joy for God's salvation, and that's what we need as well.

Psalms 51:3-11

So, way back on the weekend of November 20, 2010, I was really busy. Too lazy and not wanting to use a computer, I simply decided to write it down in some old notebook I found in my room. So, ever since then I've either written it down or typed it up, but I haven't posted it. So, here's what I've compiled since then and hopefully I'll keep up to date with actually posting from now on.

Psalms 51:3

Friday, November 19, 2010

For I know my transgressions,

and my sin is always before me.

(v3, NIV)

David outright says that he knows his transgression. What does he mean by this? Don't we typically know our transgressions? Why wouldn't he know? I think typically we don't know our transgressions, or we'd trick ourselves into ignoring them. When Nathan rebuked David, we see his anger burning against the man in the story, but it turns out to be himself. Now it is made plain to him. Before he didn't know, or it wasn't clear to him. Knowing your transgressions can be the first and biggest step sometimes. If you don't know what can you repent of? How do you even know what to repent of?

Psalms 51:3b

Saturday, November 20, 2010

For I know my transgressions,

and my sin is always before me.

(v3, NIV)

How is my sin ever before me? Some looser translations refer to sin haunting or unforgettable. What does it mean for something to be before you? It is in front of you. You can't look away from it because if you look in another direction, it is still in front of you. It is something you can't ignore or avoid. This is the way David feels about his sin. Though we ignore or hideaway our sin, sometimes it is so brought to light in such a way that we cannot ignore it. Our dirty sin can stick out in an unavoidable way that we feel the weight of it all. David has been living for a while seemingly ignoring and not addressing this sin, but it is not until Nathan's rebuke that he says that his sins is ever before him. It seems like it's not till now that he grasps the truth about his sin. I recall a PJC video about stepping on dog poo. His analogy was about a guy stepping in dog poo and pretending it didn't happen. That doesn't make sense; the smart thing to do would be to act like you stepped in poo and act accordingly (by perhaps cleaning your shoes). It is not until the full truth of the poo is acknowledged and acted upon that anything is solved. Similarly, sin needs to be acknowledged and treated as sin, as David shows he is feeling in this verse. It shows the acceptance of the truth about the sin he committed. We would be good to do the same. Admit you stepped in dog poo.

Psalms 51:4

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Against you, you only, have I sinned

and done what is evil in your sight;

so you are right in your verdict

and justified when you judge.

(v4, NIV)

Who did David sin against? Who do we sin against when we commit various sins? When I steal a stick of gum from the convenience store, am I sinning against the store owner? Or when I insult someone or hit them, am I not sinning against them? Looking at David's example, I can point to a few people who I would've initially guessed that David sinned against. Was he not sinning against Uriah for sleeping with Uriah's wife, Bathsheba? Or maybe would this be a sin against David's wives for unfaithfulness in his marriage (or marriages? Actually, it seems complicated since he had multiple wives)? Who did he sin against for the death of Uriah? Was this sin against Uriah? Perhaps it was a sin against Bathsheba, for murdering her husband. All these options seem plausible to me, yet David says that he sins against God. Apparently, David's sin is against God even though these sins seem to be directed towards people like Uriah and Bathsheba. This seems to provide a glimpse into the nature of sin. Sin is against God, even if we feel we are directing our anger towards another human being.

Psalms 51:4b

Monday, November 22, 2010

Against you, you only, have I sinned

and done what is evil in your sight;

so you are right in your verdict

and justified when you judge.

(v4, NIV)

David has sinned against God. What's interesting is that David didn't sin against God and someone else. He says "you only" when referring to who he sins against. Though it may seem to be directed towards others or mainly affecting others, it is only against God. When we sin, it may affect or seem to be directed towards others, but we are sinning against God and God alone.

Psalms 51:4c

Tuesday, NOvember 23, 2010

Against you, you only, have I sinned

and done what is evil in your sight;

so you are right in your verdict

and justified when you judge.

(v4, NIV)

How has David sinned against God? Sin is in direct opposition to God. God is holy, righteous and pure. However, sin is disobedience to God. David knew the commandments of God, but he consciously chose to disobey. When we sin, we sin against God because sin is in direct opposition to God and what he has commanded us. We can't plead ignorance either, because his law is written on our hearts, and our conscience bears witness to our evil deeds. David has grasped a better understanding of sin and I hope we all (myself included)continue to have our eyes opened more and more to the truth about sin; and as a result, are broken about it as David is and was.

Psalms 51:4d

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Against you, you only, have I sinned

and done what is evil in your sight;

so you are right in your verdict

and justified when you judge.

(v4, NIV)

To sin is to do what is evil. It is also in the sight of God because God is all knowing. So you can't really fool God or do something without him knowing. This also applies to our sin. When we sin in secret, we still sin in the sight of God. God knows it even when we sin in our thoughts. Nothing is hidden from God.

Psalms 51:4e

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Against you, you only, have I sinned

and done what is evil in your sight;

so you are right in your verdict

and justified when you judge.

(v4, NIV)

How is God justified in his words? How does David's sin and the fact that he has sinned against God lead to God being justified in his words? God speaks judgment on us for what we have done. He declares what is and is not sin. He knows, sees and declares our sin for what it is. He is justified in his judgment upon us, judging our sin and rightly so.

Psalms 51:4f

November 26, 2010

Against you, you only, have I sinned

and done what is evil in your sight;

so you are right in your verdict

and justified when you judge.

(v4, NIV)

How is God blameless in his judgment? When he judges, he is without blame. It isn't God's fault that his judgment rightly falls upon who it falls. Those for whom his judgment falls upon cannot blame God. Instead, it is their fault and their fault alone. David sins against God alone in his wrongdoing. He doesn't sin against others and God doesn't have a hand in David's sin against others. Instead, it is against God and God isn't to blame for something committed against him. Instead, God is holy, perfect and pure. God is without blame in the sin that David committed. When we sin it is the same, we cannot blame God in his judgment upon us.

Psalms 51:5

Friday, November 27, 2010

Surely I was sinful at birth,

sinful from the time my mother conceived me.

(v5, NIV)

We are all sinners. We all sin and we all fall short of the glory of God. It's not too hard to prove that all have sinned. I mean, you can't search the entirety of your life without easily finding something bad or wrong you've done. However, David takes it one step further. Not only do we all sin, but we are all sinners from birth. We're brought into this world in sin. Even those "innocent" pure babies in the nursery are born into this world in sin. This is how bleak the situation is. Now I'm sure this brings forth questions of whether babies are saved or not and stuff like that. I simply don't know, but I hope to continue to trust in a God who does know.

Psalms 51:6

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Yet you desired faithfulness even in the womb;

you taught me wisdom in that secret place.

(v6, NIV)

There is a contrast with this and what is mentioned before. Before this verse, there is much about sin and transgressions. David's sin is clearly wrong and he is a filthy sinner. Though we sin and are dirtied by it, God delights in the truth. This may not seem like a direct contrast, but David's sin had a lot to do with concealment and lies. After committing adultery with Bathsheba, he tried to cover up his sin. God delights in the truth and so we should live by the truth. Not only do we live not telling lies, but we live lives according to his truth that he has taught us. This isn't just outward, but it comes from inside. Not only are they merely outward appearances of truth, but truth that comes from within. By that I mean the motives, intentions and thoughts matter, not just how you look on the outside. Our God is a God who delights in truth, not in lies and secrecy.

Psalms 51:6b

Monday, November 29, 2010

Yet you desired faithfulness even in the womb;

you taught me wisdom in that secret place.

(v6, NIV)

God teaches us wisdom. God is wise and gives wisdom. Not only does he teach it to us as a teacher in school would, but it is taught in the secret heart. That phrase seems oddly confusing. It makes me think of times when I am alone with God and am taught something by him. It is secret in the sense that is just between me and God. It is in the heart because it is internal and not something I need to internalize to remember. God's wisdom to me is great and greatly treasured.

Psalms 51:7

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean;

wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.

(v7, NIV)

God is the one we need cleansing from. It's not like we are capable of cleansing ourselves. David knew this well. We can try and so many do try to clean themselves. People try by doing "good works". The mentality is to pour on enough "good deeds" so that it outweighs the "bad deeds". The problem is that "good deeds" will never be enough to cleanse us as we need. We need a cleansing that makes us "whiter than snow" in a purity sense. Only God can clean that way that well.

Psalms 51:7b

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean;

wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.

(v7, NIV)

Hyssop is found in a few places in the Old Testament. My Google search brought me to Wikipedia, first pointing to Exodus. When the Israelites were instructed to point their doorposts with the blood of a young lamb, hyssop was used as the brush in Exodus 12. Also, there are a few passages in Leviticus (chapters 14, 18 and 19) where priests use hyssop for purification rites. Hyssop seems to be strongly associated with purification. It makes sense why David uses it here. David wishes to be cleansed by God and the use of hyssop is as the symbolism of the cleansing he needs from God.

Psalms 51:8

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Let me hear joy and gladness;

let the bones you have crushed rejoice.

(v8, ESV)

Why does he ask to hear joy and gladness? Typically you ask for something you do not have or want more of. Perhaps you may ask for some food if you're hungry or some food looks tasty. Maybe you might ask for a hug or for one's hand in marriage. You might even ask for help to hold the door or to carry something. David here is asking for joy and gladness. He is broken over his sin and this asking for joy and gladness seems to be contrasted by how he must feel. He must feel the opposite and is dearly asking for relief. Who do we turn to when we're feeling down? I don't always turn to God when I'm feeling down. However, it is God who we should be turning to.

Psalms 51:8b

Friday, December 3, 2010

Let me hear joy and gladness;

let the bones you have crushed rejoice.

(v8, NIV)

David asks to hear joy and gladness. Why does he ask for these things? Why can't he cheer himself up? Why can't he just bring himself joy and gladness? Why doesn't he ask for joy and gladness elsewhere? People seek for joy in many different things. We spend ourselves and our lives chasing after that which is temporary. Are these things that which satisfy? I would argue that this joy and gladness only comes from God. This is why David asks God for joy and gladness. David is lacking in those areas, and who better to ask than God? Who else is there to ask? Only God can satisfy. True joy and gladness only comes from God, and we all should go to him.

Psalms 51:8c

Saturday, December 4, 2010

Let me hear joy and gladness;

let the bones you have crushed rejoice.

(v8, NIV)

Apparently, there are bones that God has crushed. I'm assuming that these are David's bones. Why does he want them to rejoice? For some reason, he wants broken bones to rejoice. I don't know first hand, but I don't think a broken leg often brings rejoicing. Instead, I'm sure it's painful and quite a hindrance. However, these bones should rejoice. More importantly, why would God crush his bones? God wouldn't do it for no reason and he certainly wouldn't do it just as a bother. We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him and we read about this in Romans 8. It may seem like God is doing harm and it's probably hard to rejoice in that type of situation, but God really intends for our good. It probably is difficult for David to rejoice for broken bones, but these broken bones should rejoice. His bones probably weren't physically broken and it is probably just symbolically referring to God's punishment upon him as a result of his sin. In the same way, we should learn to rejoice in the trials and tribulations. Rejoice for them and continue to put hope and trust in God. We may not know what's coming at the end, but he certainly does.

Psalms 51:9

Sunday, December 5, 2010

Hide your face from my sins

and blot out all my iniquity.

(v9, NIV)

David apparently doesn't want God to even look at his sins. He wishes God to look away. His sins are terribly dirty and God's eyes shouldn't even look upon one so impure. God is pure and holy and righteous. How can one so pure even look upon one as sinful as David? How can God even look at any of us, since we have all sinned and fallen short of his glory? This shows David's understanding of God. If He were physically present, how would you feel keeping in mind your filthy sinfulness? You wouldn't want him to know or see these things, but he does know. Similarly, you wouldn't want your parents or the police present as you commit murder or theft, would you? It's not exactly the same, but you don't want them to see or know. David isn't simply talking about living in continual deception and hiding of his sins. We read of his repentance and wish for real cleaning from God, so this isn't about trying to continue in sin while hiding it.

Psalms 51:9b

Monday, December 6, 2010

Hide your face from my sins

and blot out all my iniquity.

(v9, NIV)

Why does David ask to blot out his iniquity? Is it not enough for God to cover his face from David's sins? David doesn't just want this sin to remain hidden. He wishes it to be purged from it. More specifically, he wishes for record of it to be removed. There is record of his sinful actions written down, and David asks for that record to be erased. If it is erased, it's as if it didn't happen and David can move on with a clean slate. David wants forgiveness and he is repentant over his sins. When we wrong someone, don't we wish that they could act as if it never happened? We often wish for that kind of forgiveness, a forgiveness that in love treats you as if you never did such a thing. I am simply reminded of how nothing but the blood of Jesus is able to wash away all our sin.

Psalms 51:9c

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Hide your face from my sins

and blot out all my iniquity.

(v9, NIV)

David asks for his iniquity to be blotted out. This is what so many of us desperately desire. Sure, you may not acknowledge or believe in God, but you certainly desire it from others. There are times when you wrong someone else and really wish that you hadn't done that crime. Seeking forgiveness is difficult and is not always granted. When it is granted, does the other person forget it ever happened, or do they remind you of it from time to time? If we desperately desire the forgiveness of others, shouldn't we show it to others as well? I am reminded of the parable Jesus told of the unmerciful servant. He had an outstanding debt to pay to the king, but he could not pay. However, the king decided to forgive him his debt. However, the servant turned to his fellow servant who owed him money and demanded it. When the fellow servant begged similarly to how the unmerciful servant begged the king, the unmerciful servant was unwilling to forgive the debt. The king found out and dealt harshly towards the unmerciful servant. If you want to read it, it's at the end of Matthew 18. David asks God for his slate to be wiped clean as many of us ask. However, are we willing to show the same forgiveness to others? Sure, this passage isn't talking about that, but some may be tempted to simply ask for forgiveness without showing the same kindness to others. Forgive one another.

Psalms 51:10

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Create in me a pure heart, O God,

and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

(v10, NIV)

David asks God to create in him a clean heart. This implies that David's heart is unclean. We all have unclean hearts. Sure, you may look at other people and label them as a "good person", but in reality, their hearts are unclean. David's heart was unclean; your heart is unclean and so is mine.

Psalms 51:10b

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Create in me a pure heart, O God,

and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

(v10, NIV)

God is the one David asks for joy and gladness. God is the one David asks for his iniquity to be blotted out. God is also the one who David asks to create a clean heart in him. This among other things comes from God. Our hearts are unclean and we need them to be clean. It's not just a clean heart but a pure heart. I am reminded of how Jesus talked about what makes one unclean. It's not what goes into the body, but what comes out of the body. Upon further explanation, Jesus tells of how what comes out is from the heart. From the heart come all sorts of filthy sinfulness, defiling a person. This passage can be found in Matthew 7. Be careful of what defiles you and we need God to create in us a pure heart.

Psalms 51:10c

Friday, December 10, 2010

Create in me a pure heart, O God,

and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

(v10, NIV)

David asks for a steadfast spirit. What does steadfast mean? I looked it up and it means fixed or unchanging. David wants a spirit that doesn't change. He has changed and he used to be all for God, but then he screwed up. He doesn't want it to change and he wants it to be constantly good between him and God. In the same way, our lives are always up and down. We experience good times and we experience bad times. Sometimes we're close to God but sometimes we're so in love with our sin that we end up so far from him. Let us be the same and fixed on God. We should be unchanging and God can provide.

Psalms 51:11

Saturday, December 11, 2010

Do not cast me from your presence

or take your Holy Spirit from me.

(v11, NIV)

God certainly has the power and ability to cast us from his presence. If he so chooses, we wouldn't be granted such a grace. It is quite a valuable gift to be able to be in his presence. He is not distant, but nearby. David knew and must have tasted what it was like to be in the presence of God. God certainly blessed him and directed him in the past. God gave David's enemies into his hands on numerous occasions. David was instructed by God and he listened. David knew what it was like to be near to God, but he didn't want that to be taken away. I heard recently that E5 was closed for cleaning. Apparently, some people made a mess of the study area there. Because of this, the privilege of studying there has been taken away from all the students. You can debate all you like whether God can do this or not and to what degree. However, what God has done for us is so amazing and valuable beyond compare. This grace and privilege we have should not be taken lightly.

Crazy idea on Christmas Gifts

Many of you probably already start thinking of all these crazy Christmas gift shopping for your dearest friends and family. Every Christmas you probably spent hundreds to thousands or some of you like me even millions or dollars on gifts. You brought the gift but probably also worry if they already have the material at home or if they like what you brought.

Instead of all the headache, why not put all your money on gifts to support non-profit organization or even to missionaries? To people who ACTUALLY need a gifts. And then write your friends or family a Merry Christian card and say stuff like this:

"Dear you,

This year instead of buying you a tie, or a helicopter as Christmas gift, I spent that much money on this organization. As a Christian Canadian, I think we should begin the change and should breakthrough our tradition. Hope you like my brave action to you as your Christmas gift. Wish you a Merry Christmas!

p.s. I wasn't joking. Receipts is attached.

from dear me"

I was kinda joking, but deep down I think we really should do that instead. I dare you, challenge you and encourage you to do it! =D

.

Jon Lam

Love God and Fear Him

We hear that fear of the Lord is the being of wisdom, and the greatest command is love Him whole heartedly with actions. Love and fear should be co-existed, meaning that when you love God, your heart will want to please Him with all your might; but when you fear Him as well, you will be even more alert with your actions.

James said "faith without actions is dead", or "faith was made complete by what he did"; Paul said "you are saved by grace through faith". Here faith is like loving God, and action is like fearing Him. When love and fear should be co-existed, you cannot say that you fear God if you don't even love Him, because you have nothing to based on your fear. However, how could the claim of loving God be completed, when you don't even fear Him?

One last point though, is that, if you truly love God, how could you not fear him, yet fearing Him alone doesn't make you to love him. Therefore, the GREATEST command is still love your God with all your heart and soul and mind, and remember fear of the Lord is still the beginning of wisdom.

2 Chronicles 24-26

Looking at the histories of kings, we know that God hates those who worship the idols and will certainly destroy them, and God will take care who love and fear him.

Some like, Jehoiada, the priest, who against the evil Athaliah, did what was good in God's eyes in his whole life, his life journey is not easy and full of risk and trails, but God gives sufficient strength and power and wisdom for her to go through trails and in God's will he was able to achieve many.

Some like, King Joash, he started off his reign in wonderful way, but in his later years he turned away from the right path, instead follow the people and the wind instead of the unchanging God, he ended up losing all the people who had risked their lives for him and had loved him, turned away from him.

Some, like Jehoiakim, worship the evil power, becomes the vassal of Babylon, and still very prosper in the time being. As the book of Habakkuk mentions, Habakkuk cried out to God: "Why do you tolerate wrongdoing?", but in the end, God will reigns over the nation, and have justice after generation and destroyed the evil one.

There are more examples and stories....and history just repeats itself. The question is which life would you choose to live? "You will certainly carry out God's purpose, but it makes a difference to you whether you serve like Judas or like John." - CSL

Psalms 51:2

Wash away all my iniquity

and cleanse me from my sin.

(v2, NIV)

In the first verse, David asked God to blot out his transgressions. What he has done is referred to as being recorded and he asks for that record to be erased somehow. Now in verse 2, he asks for cleansing from his sin and iniquity. What he has done is not just something to be removed from record, but something that has made him dirty. His uncleanliness from his sin is something he requests God for cleansing from. When we sin, we become unclean and dirty. We are no longer pure but are impure. What's also interesting is who does the cleaning. Sure, it may seem to make sense to ask for cleaning from God, but why doesn't he do it himself? Well, if you want to brush your teeth, do you use a dirty toothbrush? Or if you just took a shower, would you use a dirty towel to dry yourself? It something unclean is used to clean, and then what is being cleaned can't be properly cleaned. If something dirty is used to clean something, the thing being cleaned wouldn't necessarily get clean but it would probably be dirtied by the dirty thing being used to clean it. Similarly, David cannot cleanse himself because he himself is dirty. Instead, he asks God, who is holy and pure, to cleanse him from his sin. Only a cleansing from God would render you clean.

Psalms 51:1b

Have mercy on me, O God,

according to your unfailing love;

according to your great compassion

blot out my transgressions.

(v1, NIV)

David asks for his transgressions to be blotted out. It's as if all he has ever done has been written in a book. David is asking for this record that has been written down to be erased in some way. He wants for it to be blotted out so that it would be as if it never happened. Often times after having sinned, I desperately wish for my sins to be blotted out. I wish to have never done them. I wish to go back in time and undo what I had done. David asks God for this and pleas for this according to God's compassion. In the ESV, the word used is mercy. David is appealing to God's mercy or compassion to blot out his transgression. With sin comes punishment, and God's mercy may kindly withhold it from us by blotting out our transgressions in some way. In addition, if it weren't for his compassion for us, he wouldn't have much reason to even want to blot out our transgressions.

Psalms 51:1a

Have mercy on me, O God,

according to your unfailing love;

according to your great compassion

blot out my transgressions.

(v1, NIV)

David is asking for mercy according to God's love. If God wasn't loving, would he have mercy on us? For what other reason would he have mercy on us? He certainly doesn't need us. He doesn't gain anything from us that he doesn't already have or hasn't given us already. It is because of love that he has mercy on us if he indeed does show mercy to any of us. In addition, his love isn't limited or flaky. It's not like one day it suddenly runs out. In the ESV, the word used is "steadfast", which means fixed or unchanging. If God loves you he will continue to love you and he will have mercy on you according to this unchanging love.

Psalms 51:1

Have mercy on me, O God,

according to your unfailing love;

according to your great compassion

blot out my transgressions.

(v1, NIV)

Been reading a lot of Psalms lately, so I thought I'd take a break from Romans from time to time. The last UWCCF bible study was on 2 Samuel 12 where Nathan rebukes David. Nathan rebukes David for the whole Bathsheba incident. The heading of Psalms 51 refers to the time when Nathan rebuked David in 2 Samuel 12. Reading Psalms 51 gives an insight to David's feelings at that time. It begins with him asking for mercy from God. Mercy is withholding from someone something bad that they deserve. In the case of David, he deserves punishment for the sin he had committed when he slept with Bathsheba and had her husband murdered. As humans we sin all the time. If it wasn't for God's mercy upon us, we would have been struck dead a long time ago. We need his mercy. We are dirty sinners at the mercy of him whether we like to admit it or not.

Romans 4:17

As it is written: “I have made you a father of many nations.” He is our father in the sight of God, in whom he believed—the God who gives life to the dead and calls into being things that were not.

(v17, NIV)

Apparently, he is the father of us all. Those who follow in his footsteps of a crediting of righteousness by faith are those who he is a father to. A quote is even taken from Genesis here to refer to God's promise to Abraham. Paul goes on to talk about a God who gives life to the dead. He even calls into being things that are not. This is the God whom Abraham believes in. He is able to give life to the dead. God is able to raise Jesus from the dead and he is able to declare those who have faith in him righteous. These who have faith in him are also the ones who are dead. We are spiritually dead and without hope if we are without God. Yet it is God who gives life to us who are spiritually dead, declaring us righteous apart from works. This is a weird concept which seems not to make sense. How do you bring to life something that is dead or how do you call into being things that were not? Sure, it's not so weird because of the stories we read or because of perhaps when someone is resuscitated being near death. However, this seems like something magicians seem to do. They're mere humans who we easily attribute their act to some sort of "trick". However, God is able to do this simply because he is able. He doesn't perform with long sleeves able to hide things. Sure, he doesn't reveal everything to us, but he is God and able to bring the dead to life. This is a powerful God, one whom Abraham put his faith in. Abraham had faith in this God and it was credited to him as righteousness. Those who follow in Abraham's footsteps of faith are fathered by him in a sense.

Romans 4:16

Therefore, the promise comes by faith, so that it may be by grace and may be guaranteed to all Abraham’s offspring—not only to those who are of the law but also to those who have the faith of Abraham. He is the father of us all.

(v16, NIV)

It doesn't make sense for the crediting of righteousness to come by the law. Following Abraham's example, Paul points to him and his promise, showing the way in which Abraham lived and how he was credited righteousness. If you recall, Paul's previous point was about the nature of works and how a worker is owed his wages. However, one who is graced with a gift is not owed in the same way a worker is owed his wages. If righteousness was based upon one's keeping of the law, it would be dependent on them and their performance. God's promise would be conditional and based upon the deeds of man instead of the faithfulness of God. Being by faith allows it to be by his grace and guaranteed according to the promise given to Abraham.

Romans 4:15

because the law brings wrath. And where there is no law there is no transgression.

(v15, NIV)

So, the law and faith is contrasted by Paul. Clearly he has and continues to be promoting faith and saying that Abraham's faith was credited to him as righteousness. Now talking about the promise, it makes sense for it to be by faith and not based upon the law. The thing is that the law brings wrath. In addition to this, transgression is in there where there is the law. Paul describes this point by making the opposite assertion. He says that where there is no law, there is no transgression. Since there is transgression, there is wrath. Wrath is brought upon by the breaking of the law. Instead of bringing righteousness and salvation through the promise based on faith and God's faithfulness, the law brings the wrath of God for the transgressing of his law.

Romans 4:13-14

It was not through the law that Abraham and his offspring received the promise that he would be heir of the world, but through the righteousness that comes by faith. For if those who depend on the law are heirs, faith means nothing and the promise is worthless,

(v13-14, NIV)

Now this moves towards the promise God gave to Abraham and his offspring. This promise was not through the law, but instead it is through faith. The thing is that it doesn't really work if it depended on the law. If heirs to the promise are receiving it through the law, this has nothing to do with faith. In addition, the promise is worthless. How is the promise worthless? The promise is based upon what we do. This condition placed upon the promise focuses on what we do instead of what God does. Since we know that we all sin and fall short, how could any of us ever lay hold of this promise? Instead, it is by faith and it depends on God and his faithfulness.

Romans 4:11-12

And he received circumcision as a sign, a seal of the righteousness that he had by faith while he was still uncircumcised. So then, he is the father of all who believe but have not been circumcised, in order that righteousness might be credited to them. And he is then also the father of the circumcised who not only are circumcised but who also follow in the footsteps of the faith that our father Abraham had before he was circumcised.

(v11-12, NIV)

If righteousness was attained through circumcision, all would need to be circumcised to be declared righteous. However, Abraham was justified before circumcision, so that he would be the father of the circumcised and the uncircumcised. Even if there are those who are circumcised, it is not by their circumcision but by their faith. They may follow in Abraham's example in circumcision if they so choose, but it is more importantly his example of faith that is to be followed.

Romans 4:11

And he received circumcision as a sign, a seal of the righteousness that he had by faith while he was still uncircumcised. So then, he is the father of all who believe but have not been circumcised, in order that righteousness might be credited to them.

(v11, NIV)

So, if Abraham was justified by faith, what was the purpose of his circumcision? That's a legitimate question if Paul is making the point that Abraham was not justified by works. Well, apparently circumcision was received as a sign. Sure, Abraham had received righteousness by faith, but circumcision was a sign of that in a sense. It's described as a seal, and I am reminded of how the Holy Spirit is a seal or guarantee for us as described in Ephesians 1. It's not what justifies but it was like proof for Abraham. This doesn't mean it applies the same way for us. Just because you're physically circumcised doesn't mean you have been declared righteous according to faith.

Romans 4:10

Under what circumstances was it credited? Was it after he was circumcised, or before? It was not after, but before!

(v10, NIV)

See, some Jews may point to the fact that Abraham was circumcised and that was credited to him as righteousness. However, if you look carefully, you'll notice that it was credited to him as righteousness before he was circumcised. Therefore, the argument doesn't hold anymore. Abraham had faith and it was not works that merited him any sort of justification.

Romans 4:9

Is this blessedness only for the circumcised, or also for the uncircumcised? We have been saying that Abraham’s faith was credited to him as righteousness.

(v9, NIV)

Now the focus is directed towards Abraham. This blessing spoken of by David is not only for the circumcised. If that were the case, then Abraham would be exempt from the blessing before he was circumcised. However, blessings to Abraham from God were before he was circumcised. Using Abraham's example, which many Jews boasted in, Paul points out that the crediting of righteousness to Abraham was by faith. This is yet another point in the stack in Paul's argument against works for righteousness and towards faith crediting righteousness.

Romans 4:7-8

“Blessed are those

whose transgressions are forgiven,

whose sins are covered.

Blessed is the one

whose sin the Lord will never count against them.”

(v7-8, NIV)

This quote of David's is taken from Psalms 32:1-2. It begins with sins and transgressions. All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. However, David is talking about forgiveness and the covering of sins. Your sins aren't covered by doing works. How would the observance of the law remove sins already committed? These are sins already committed and ones the Lord chooses not to count against those who commit them. Nowhere in this passage does it say anything about meriting God's favor through works. Instead, it seems like something David is simply thankful for. These people who receive this are blessed. If it was something owed according to works, this passage doesn't really make that much sense. It is by faith and not by works that sins are covered and one is declared righteous.

Romans 4:6

David says the same thing when he speaks of the blessedness of the one to whom God credits righteousness apart from works:

(v6, NIV)

This train of thought may be quite different from the Jews at the time. However, Paul uses an example from David to reinforce the legitimacy of what he's talking about. David in the Old Testament does in fact talk about a God who credits righteousness in a way different from works. Though it may seem to many that the Old Testament teaches works and observance of the law as a means to credit righteousness, David seems to say differently in the passage Paul is about to quote.

Romans 4:5

However, to the one who does not work but trusts God who justifies the ungodly, their faith is credited as righteousness.

(v5, NIV)

Now the Paul begins to address the issue of faith. This is contrasted with "work". Instead of being one who works, Paul uses the example of one who trusts God. This trust in God is trust that God justifies the ungodly. Clearly Paul has already addressed the fact that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. All of us are ungodly. This trust in God of this person Paul describes is credited to him or her as righteousness. Instead of an owing of wages associated with work, there is a crediting as a result of faith.

Romans 4:4

Now to the one who works, wages are not credited as a gift but as an obligation.

(v4, NIV)

Now Paul embarks to explain the nature of works. What does it mean to work for something? So for the example of someone who works a job, how does he or she earn their pay? When a person works, they work to earn their wages. What they earn is what their employer owes them. Their wages are what they deserve. The nature of work is described as opposite to a gift.

Romans 4:3

What does Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.”

(v3, NIV)

Here Paul settles the debate. Paul quotes Genesis 15:6 where it talks about Abraham's belief. Righteousness is credited to Abraham from his belief in God. Therefore, nobody can bring the argument that Abraham was justified by works. Thus, they have nothing to say. It is by faith and not by works that one is justified.

Romans 4:2

If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works, he had something to boast about—but not before God.

(v2, NIV)

Abraham would have had something to boast about if he was justified by works. Justification by works brings forth the possibility of boasting. However, this is not the case with justification by faith. Justification by works is what most people think is the way to be saved. People think if you do a bunch of works, you can merit something allowing you to be justified. What's interesting is that this hypothetical situation Paul presents is "not before God". If justification came by works, you could boast, but not before God. The boasting allowed to one who is justified by works doesn't even apply before God. Before God, even this hypothetical boasting cannot stand.

Romans 4:1

What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather, discovered in this matter?

(v1, NIV)

So, boasting is excluded on the basis of faith. We know and understand that justification is by faith and not by the observance of the law. However, what about Abraham? Some of the Jews took pride in the fact that they were the descendants of Abraham. Their objection would be that Abraham was justified by the observance of the law and not by faith. So, Paul embarks to bring to light the case of Abraham in this next section. Was he justified by faith or by works?

Romans 3:31

Do we, then, nullify the law by this faith? Not at all! Rather, we uphold the law.

(v31, NIV)

A legitimate question would be to ask if the law is null because of faith. If we are justified by faith and boasting is excluded, what's the point of the law? However, even though we are justified by faith, it doesn't mean the law is nullified. We don't set aside the observance of the law when we pick up faith. Instead, we uphold the law. If you are declared righteous on the basis of faith, you don't go and live in sin. There is a sort of connection that leads from faith to the observance of the law. If you have faith, you will keep the law. This doesn't mean that those who are justified are perfect and never sin. However, the point is that faith and the law are not opposites and they actually work together quite nicely.

Romans 3:29-30

Is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of Gentiles too? Yes, of Gentiles too, since there is only one God, who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through that same faith.

(v29-30, NIV)

God is both God to the Jews and God to the Gentiles. Some had thought God was exclusive to the Jews, but that is not the case. What was raised earlier was the exclusion of boasting on the principle of faith. The way people are justified is by faith and not by the observance of the law. God will justify both Jews and Gentiles by faith and is not exclusive. It is only by grace through faith in Jesus that anyone is saved. This faith that saves Jews is also the same faith that saves Gentiles.

Romans 3:29

Is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of Gentiles too? Yes, of Gentiles too,

(v29, NIV)

Clearly God is both God of the Jews and God of the Gentiles. God is not only the God of the Jews. This had been a prominent belief at the time because Israel was God's chosen people back in the Old Testament. This is true, but we also read in Ephesians about this mystery that was made known to Paul. The mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs together with Israel through the gospel. In addition, Paul speaks about this in Galatians, explaining it as children and heirs. God is not only the God of the Jews but also the God of the Gentiles. Why does Paul bring this up in this passage? Paul was just talking about excluding boasting on the basis of faith as opposed to the observance of the law. The law was given to the Jews but was not given to the Gentiles. However, boasting is excluded on the basis of faith and we know that justification comes through faith in Jesus. Paul has done away with excuses regarding the law and fairness in the previous chapters. Even though the law was given to the Jews, those without the law even have it written on their hearts. In addition, their conscience bears witness to themselves. But at the same time, Jews have an advantage in their being given of the law. Even so, God is God of both Jews and Gentiles. In justification he justifies both by faith through Jesus Christ and not by observance of the law where only one of the two were given it.

Romans 3:28

For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from observing the law.

(v28, NIV)

So boasting is done away with by faith. This is because we are justified by faith. Justification by faith happens separate from the observance of the law. There is no boasting and it cannot come from when any are justified. We can't look at others and laugh at them, boasting in our justification. It doesn't work that way because we didn't do anything to earn or merit our justification. It just doesn't work that way and it's important that we do not boast in anything of ourselves in any way. Boasting is excluded and justification is by faith apart from the law.

James 4:13-17

"Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil. Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins."

James 4:13-17

Romans 3:27

Where, then, is boasting? It is excluded. On what principle? On that of observing the law? No, but on that of faith.

(v27, NIV)

All of a sudden the topic of boasting is brought up by Paul. Why is boasting the new topic at hand? Well, Paul has lengthened out about God and the gospel and Jesus Christ in the last section. There isn't much in there praiseworthy of man aside from what God offers to them. What Paul does say about people is that all have sinned and fall short of God's glory. If all this is about God and what he does, it's not really about us. We trade away his glory and choose images instead of God. So there doesn't seem much room for boasting. What becomes of it is that it is excluded. There is simply no room for boasting. If boasting is excluded, this begs the question as to how or why it is excluded. One suggestion is that observance of the law excludes boasting. Observance of the law is clearly not the way boasting is excluded. Instead, it is on the basis of faith that boasting is excluded. The observance of the law doesn't exclude boasting but it encourages boasting. When we observe the law, we are tempted to boast about our deeds. It is not on the basis of the observance of the law that boasting is excluded.

Romans 3:26

he did it to demonstrate his justice at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.

(v26, NIV)

This is similar to what was said in the previous verse. However, this time the reason is given with regards to God who God is and what he does, not what he has done. By presenting Jesus as a sacrifice, God is just. Proper payment is being made for the sins of the unrighteous. However, at the same time, God is able to be the justifier of those who have faith in Jesus. It is only by Jesus and his sacrifice that we may be justified. We cannot be justified by our own works. We cannot merit it by doing good deeds alone. It is only by faith in Jesus that any of us are justified. So it is by this sacrifice that God is just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.

Romans 3:25c

God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood. He did this to demonstrate his justice, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished—

(v25, NIV)

So God put forth Jesus as a sacrifice of atonement. Apparently, this was done to demonstrate his justice. How is this in any way a demonstration of his justice? It is somewhat linked to the fact that God has passed over previously committed sins. Well, when God leaves sin unpunished, he is unjust. It is unjust to not give the proper punishment for wrongdoing. However, God does this when he chooses to leave previously committed sins unpunished. In this situation, what must God do? God must deal out the proper punishment where punishment is due. One way God could do this is to send all us sinners to hell. Hell is what we deserve for our life of sin and continual trading away of his glory. God could do that and he would be perfectly just in doing that. However, by sending his son as an atoning sacrifice, God also satisfies his perfect justice. Payment is demanded for the sins previously committed and Jesus is the perfect sacrifice. He lived a perfect life and is more than able to pay the debt we owe. In this sacrifice, God's wrath against us for our sins is satisfied. God is just because proper payment is made for the sins committed.

verse reminder

If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work. - 2 Tim 2: 21

Romans 3:25b

God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood. He did this to demonstrate his justice, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished—

(v25, NIV)

What does it mean that he left previous sins unpunished? Well, what do we deserve when we sin? We deserve death for when we sin. However, if everyone sins, why isn't everyone dead? If I sin, I should be instantly dead as penalty for that sin. Instead, God has left these sins which I have committed unpunished. He is patiently in kindness postponing his wrath upon us. The punishment we deserve for the sin we commit is being stored away and withheld from us for the time being. This is what God does in his kindness and we should be thankful to him for that.

Romans 3:25

God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood. He did this to demonstrate his justice, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished—

(v25, NIV)

Jesus is presented by God as an atoning sacrifice. Apparently, atonement is to make amends for injury or wrong done. If Jesus was a sacrifice of atonement, what is the wrong done? Certainly, Jesus didn't do anything wrong because he is the pure spotless lamb. In addition, God presented him as a sacrifice, and it wouldn't really be a sacrifice if he was atoning for something he did himself. Instead, he is the atoning sacrifice for those whom God chooses to save. This atonement is for our sins. As a result, payment is required for all this wrong doing that we do. Jesus is the perfect sacrifice that atones for our sins. He pays the price that we could not pay and we receive his perfect life. This is what he did for us and we did not do anything to merit this. This is a free gift which we receive.

Romans 3:24b

and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.

(v24, NIV)

This justification that is from God is by his grace. Grace is not merited and this justification is not worked for. Paul also mentions the medium or the method for this justification by grace. This is through Jesus Christ and the redemption that was brought about by him. Can't leave Jesus out of this. Jesus is central to the gospel and the justification of us sinners. It doesn't work without Jesus and it is only by Jesus that anyone is saved.

Romans 3:24

and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.

(v24, NIV)

Not only have all sinned, but they are justified freely by his grace. It's not saying that all sinners are justified by his grace. God doesn't justify everyone because we know that he doesn't save everyone. Instead, God is free to justify who he chooses to justify. Going back to the beginning of this section we recall that Paul is talking about a righteousness from God. This righteousness from God is to all who believe. It is true that out of all of us are sinners, but there is also no difference among those who receive a righteousness from God. Those who receive this righteousness from God are also all sinners. For these, in addition to having all sinned, they are also all justified freely by his grace. Though none even come close and they all fall short of his glory, God is the one who justifies as a free gift.

Romans 3:23

for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,

(v23, NIV)

Not only do all sin, but all fall short of the glory of God. There is a level or a measure that we all compare with. This measure is not each other. Most people in this day and age know how to measure against each other all too well. We all rationalize and justify our own actions comparing ourselves with others. Somehow, the majority thinks they themselves are above the curve. Clearly, this is not the case because the very nature of an average is contradicted if more than fifty percent of the people are above average. The fact of the matter is that we all sin. We all fall short of God and his standard. It doesn't matter if we compare to each other; the average of all humans is not the measure that matters. Instead, the glory of God is what matters, and we all fall short of it. If you're having trouble with this, read Romans 1-3 again. Paul has gone into great detail about how we sin and don't choose God. Still aren't convinced? Just look around you at the sin is this world. Look at the news and see all the kinds of atrocities that are being committed by humans. Don't stop there and excuse yourself, look at yourself and try if you can to prove that you have never broken a single commandment of God's law, or the government's laws. Still not convinced? Truthfully ask your own conscience to see whether you are in fact guilty from your conscience's point of view. Even if you still don't believe this very fact and suppress the truth, it is God who will judge in the end and we can all answer to him. All have sinned and we all fall short of his glory.

Romans 3:22-23

This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,

(v22-23, NIV)

The righteousness from God is to all who believe. This is of course through faith in Jesus Christ, but there aren't other requirements stacked up on top of belief. There isn't a measure of difference between people that excludes them from this righteousness if they believe. It's not like just because you're a murderer or like eating chocolate that you cannot receive this righteousness from God if you believe. Clearly, Paul has already mentioned that all have sinned. Here he states it again. We are all on a level playing field. We have all sinned and cannot rise or extend further than that.

Romans 3:22

This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference,

(v22, NIV)

This is a righteousness from God which is not from the law. We see how in the past people have tried to attain a righteousness from the law. Unfortunately, they have all come short. So if there is now a righteousness from God apart from the law, this begs the question, "how do we receive it?" This righteousness only comes through faith in Jesus Christ. It is for all who believe. It is not by works because it is not through the law. It is quite a relief to know that it isn't by our efforts at all. Instead, it is from God and based on Jesus Christ. This is good news and brings hope.

Sunday School notes -- Your Word is Truth, Chapter 4 Satan, the Deceiver

Scripture:

"The heavens proclaim the glory of God.
The skies display his craftsmanship.

Day after day they continue to speak;
night after night they make him known.

They speak without a sound or word;
their voice is never heard.

Yet their message has gone throughout the earth,
and their words to all the world." - Psalm 19

"Look up into the heavens. Who created all the stars?
He brings them out like an army, one after another,
calling each by its name.Because of his great power and incomparable strength,
not a single one is missing." - Isaiah 40: 26

"O Lord, what a variety of things you have made!
In wisdom you have made them all.
The earth is full of your creatures.

Here is the ocean, vast and wide,
teeming with life of every kind,
both large and small.

See the ships sailing along,and Leviathan,
which you made to play in the sea." - Psalm 104:24

"For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God." - Romans 1:20

"For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies." - John 8:44

"The serpent was the shrewdest of all the wild animals the Lord God had made. One day he asked the woman, “Did God really say you must not eat the fruit from any of the trees in the garden?”
“Of course we may eat fruit from the trees in the garden,” the woman replied.
“It’s only the fruit from the tree in the middle of the garden that we are not allowed to eat. God said, ‘You must not eat it or even touch it; if you do, you will die.’”
“You won’t die!” the serpent replied to the woman.
“God knows that your eyes will be opened as soon as you eat it, and you will be like God, knowing both good and evil.”" - Genesis 3:1-5

"Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused. Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools. " Roman 1:21-22

"When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam’s sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned." Roman 5:12