READING FOR DECEMBER 4, 2024: DEUTERONOMY 23, REVELATION 1, PSALM 119:129-136 DEUTERONOMY 23 These early verses list individuals who God stated could not participate in assemblies or gatherings apparently for the purpose of worshipping God. It does not say they are excluded from living among the people or even prohibited from practicing their faith in other ways. Categories for nonparticipation are 1) those made eunuchs (castrated), 2) those born out of wedlock (including 10 generations of their descendants), and 3) Ammonites or Moabites (including 10 generations of their descendants). Perhaps God is signaling his disapproval of the castration process for Israel. Much later, in Acts 8, we find the Holy Spirit dramatically opening the Kingdom of God to eunuchs. Certainly, this Old Testament prohibition discouraged extramarital sexual relationships. Also, it conveyed God’s anger with Ammon and Moab for not assisting Israel in their exodus. Of course, the Moabitess Ruth was welcomed into the country and her great grandson David become king. Perhaps an exception was made for him. God encourages good relationship with the Edomites, who descended from Esau, Jacob's/Israel’s brother. A sanction is given to descendants of the Egyptians, who hosted but later mistreated Israel. Notice how far-reaching the effects are of individual and national behavior. Our actions may have consequences for hundreds of years into the future.
The chapter continues with guidelines for living with an awareness of the presence of the Lord. This includes details of nocturnal emissions, defecating, and particularly treating with respect all fellow countrymen, including those in need or enslaved. This is a good reminder that we, too, are charged to do good, especially to Christians: “Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith” (Gal. 6:9-10).
REVELATION 1 Of all the books in the Bible, none captures our imagination and interest like the book of Revelation. It is full of vivid images of chaos on earth as well as fantastic images of the glory of heaven. There are many things in this book that are hard to understand and have been interpreted in various ways. Some say that all the events described here have already taken place. Others insist that it is a prophesy of things that are yet to come. For our study of Revelation, we will not focus on trying to figure out an end-times timeline or attempt to figure out who the antichrist might be. Rather, we will try to find something in each chapter that will enable us to draw closer to Jesus. This is quite appropriate, for the first three verses explain the true purpose of the book.
First and foremost, this book comes from Jesus himself. The very first words make this clear. “The revelation of Jesus Christ…” (1:1) It goes on to state that Jesus made this revelation known by sending it to his servant John who wrote it down. John affirms that these are the
READING FOR DECEMEBER 4, 2024 CONTINUED: REVELATION 1, PSALM 119:129-136 words of Jesus when he calls this book, “the testimony of Jesus Christ.” (1:2)Jesus is really the focus of the book from beginning to end. In fact, the last two verses also remind us that this book is the testimony of Jesus. “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon.” Amen. Come Lord Jesus. The grace of the Lord Jesus be with God's people. Amen.” (Revelation 22:20-21)
Secondly, Jesus gives this revelation to show us “what must soon take place.” (1:1) Jesus wants us to be prepared for what is to come…particularly his return to earth. In this revelation, Jesus often points to his second coming:
Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him… (1:7)
Only hold on to what you have until I come. (2:25)
I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown. (3:11)
Behold, I come like a thief! Blessed is he who stays awake… (16:15)
Behold, I am coming soon! (22:7)
Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me… (22:12)
"Yes, I am coming soon." Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. (22:20)
Thirdly, Jesus gives this revelation to bless us. Verse 3 tells us that those who read this book, those who hear this book and those who take it to heart will be blessed. The last chapter adds that those who keep the words of this book will be blessed. (22:7) So, let’s approach this book with an expectation that in these chapters we will be blessed as we encounter Jesus.
PSALM 119:129-136 The Psalmist finds God’s word full of wonder (or wonderful). Why might we not read the Bible? Likely because we find other activities, such recreation or the media, fuller of wonder than the Bible. Why? Ask the Lord to open the eyes of your heart to perceive the timeless wonder of the Bible. The Psalmist claims the Bible provides understanding even to those considered less intellectual or educated. Often this writer has spoken to welfare recipients who have more spiritual insight than many seminary graduates because God’s word has enlightened them. Based on his great understanding of God’s word, the Psalmists knows he can ask God for His attention, guidance to live out the word, protection from sin, and rescue from the schemes of evil men so that he can be even more obedient. Even though he obviously reads and loves God words, he still asks that God teach him His word. The Holy Spirit works through the Bible to operate in our lives: “The sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Eph. 6:17). Finally, the Psalmist laments because God’s word is not being obeyed. Does this fact cause us to cry? It should. And it should motivate us to prayer and action.
