Peace Series: My Peace I Give You

Posted on July 28, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.  Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27).

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace.  In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

What is “peace”?  Webster provides the following definitions: “1.  A state of tranquility or quiet: as a. freedom from civil disturbance; b. a state of security or order within a community provided for by law or custom; 2. freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions; 3. harmony in personal relations; 4.a. a state or period of mutual concord between governments; b. a pact or agreement to end hostilities between those who have been at war or in a state of enmity;  5. – used interjectionally to ask for silence or calm or as a greeting or farewell.” (www.marriam-webster.com).  Rush Limbaugh concisely says, “Peace is the absence of threat and the presence of justice” (www.rushlimbaugh.com/2015/03/18/what_is_your_definition_of_peace).

Most people primarily think of peace as harmony in the world.  They think of peace between men.  They think of peace between governments.

The Bible uses the word “peace” in a variety of ways.  The original word in the New Testament is, the Greek word, eirene.  It is from the root word eiro, meaning “to join.”  The word is used of: (1) harmonious relations between men – Matthew 10:34, Romans 14:19; (2) friendliness – 1 Corinthians 16:11; (3) harmonious relations between nations -Luke 14:2, Acts 12:20; (4) a state of national tranquility – Acts 24:2; (5) Freedom from molestation – Acts 9:31; (6) a sense of rest – Mark 5:34; (7) Order in the state – Acts 24:2; or in the church – 1 Corinthians 14:33; (8) harmonious relations between God and man – Acts 10:36; Ephesians 2:17; (9) the tranquil state of the soul assured of its salvation through Christ – John 16:33; (10) the blessed state of the devout and upright men after death – Romans 2:10 (see Vine’s; Thayer).

Jesus did not offer His followers peace on earth.  He acknowledged “In the world you will have tribulation” (John 16:33).

Jesus did not offer peace as the world offers it (John 14:27).  What does this mean?  It may mean that He did not offer the kind of peace to them that earthly governments provide.  He, by force, would not directly regulate man’s behavior.  Though, He does authorize government to do so (cf. Romans 13:1-ff).  Many think that this means that He did not offer them empty words.  Israelites at meetings and departures wished each other “shalom.”  Matthew Henry comments, “I do not compliment you with ‘Peace be unto you’; no, it is not a mere formality,   but a real blessing” (Matthew Henry’s Commentary, Vol. 5, p. 904).  Adam Clarke comments, “Not as the Jews in empty wishes: not as the people of the world, in empty compliments.  Their salutations and benedictions are generally matters of custom and polite ceremony without desire or design; but I mean what I say; what I wish you, that I give you” (Clarke’s Commentary, Vol. 5, p. 625).

Jesus offers an inward peace which is not based upon external circumstances of this physical life.  Guy Woods comments, “It is significant that the Lord did not say, ‘Ye have overcome the world; therefore, peace is yours’, this blessed promise was theirs because He did it.  It is true that Christians must overcome the world in resisting its allurements and avoiding its temptations, but there must have been this initial triumph over it by our Saviour and Lord; Otherwise, salvation would not have been possible, regardless of any resistance to evil influences.  Thus, the triumph of the Lord was also that of His disciples’.  The verb ‘I have overcome the world,’ is in the perfect tense, completed action with continuing effects.  The Lord’s mission into the world was now nearly over and so certain was it of completion that He could speak of it as already having been accomplished” (Woods, A Commentary on The Gospel According to John, p. 351).  Jesus’ disciples can have an inward peace “which surpasses all understanding” (Philippians 4:7), because He has overcome the world!

“Peace, perfect peace, in this dark work of sin: The blood of Jesus whispers peace within/ Peace, perfect peace, by thronging duties pressed: To do the will of Jesus – this is rest/ Peace, perfect peace, with sorrows surging round: On Jesus’ bosom naught but calm is found/ Peace, perfect peace, with loved ones far away: In Jesus’ keeping we are safe, and they/ Peace, perfect peace, our future all unknown: Jesus we know, and He is on the throne/ It is enough; earth’s struggles soon shall cease, and Jesus call us to heav’n’s peace. (song: Peace, Perfect Peace by Edward H. Bickersteth)

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Circumcision’s Added Benefit

Posted on July 25, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

God told Abraham that circumcision would be “a sign of the covenant “(Genesis 17:11).  God had promised “in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed” (Genesis 12:3), and “you shall be the father of many nations” (Genesis 17:4).  Henry Morris commented, “the emphasis of the covenant, of course, was on the promised seed, and on the abundance of progeny which would accrue to Abraham.  The male sex organ is the remarkable, divinely created vehicle for the transmission of this seed from one generation to another.  The circumcision (“cutting around”) of this channel would thus picture its complete enclosure within God’s protective and productive will” (The Genesis Record, p. 333).  Circumcision was a reminder that through Abraham and his descendants would come nations, and finally a blessing upon all nations (Genesis 12:3; 18:18; 22:18; 26:4; 28:14 cf. Acts 3:25-26).

When Abraham sent his servant to find a wife for Isaac a strange thing occurred.  The servant swore to do his duty by putting his hand under the thigh of Abraham (Genesis 24:9 cf. 47:29).  This seems to be a reminder of the covenant made which was to be fulfilled through the loins of Abraham.

The primary purpose of circumcision is clear. It was a sign of the covenant which was to be fulfilled through the loins of Abraham.

However, there seems to be an added benefit.  S.I. McMillan, in his book, None of These Diseases, writes of the physical value of circumcision.  (1) He cites several studies which show a much lower rate of cervical cancer among women whose mates are circumcised.  He writes of a study in India.  “Although the people there have similar racial background, eat the same types of food (there are some differences B.H.), and live in the same climate and environment, the population is divided into two religious groups (Hindu and Islam, B.H.).  Those who (follow) Mohammed… practice circumcision.  Among that group there is a much lower incident of Cervical cancer than among women of the same race who eat the same food and live in the same environment” (McMillian, None of These Diseases, p.18). He explains, “If the tight unretractable foreskin is not removed, proper cleaning cannot be readily performed (at least not easily B.H.).  As a result, many virulent bacteria, including cancer-producing smegma bacillus, can grow profusely.  During sexual intercourse these bacteria are deposited in the cervix of the uterus, if the mucous membrane of the cervix is intact, little harm results.  However, if lacerations exist, as they frequently do after childbirth, these bacteria can cause considerable irritation.  Since any part of the body which is subjected to irritation is susceptible to cancer, it is perfectly understandable why cervical cancer is likely to develop in women whose mates are not circumcised” (p. 19).  (2) He also writes of penile cancer saying, “These bacteria not only produce cancer in women, but also irritate the male organ and may cause cancer of the penis” (ibid).  He concludes, “We can say that circumcision is an almost perfect prophylaxis against this deadly cancer” (ibid).

While today circumcision is of no religious value (Galatians 5:6; 6:15; Romans 2:28-29; 1 Corinthians 7:18-19; Colossians 3:11), there is still a point to be made.  The point is this: when one follows God’s teachings, there is often an added benefit.  Even though the Israelites may never have understood it at the time, there was an added benefit to circumcision.  God’s commandments are for our good (cf. Deuteronomy 6:24; 10:23; 1 John 5:3).  Often, this good is not just spiritual in nature, but also physical.  For example – when we get rid of envy and hatred we not only are doing what is spiritually right, we may be saving ourselves from potential harm.  “A sound heart is life to the body, but envy is rottenness to the bones” (Proverbs 14:30).

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Peace Series: Peace or Sword?

Posted on July 21, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Do not think that I came to bring peace but a sword.  For I have come to ‘set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law’; and ‘a man’s enemies will be those of his own household‘” (Matthew 10:34-35).

“Do you suppose that I came to give peace on earth?  I tell you not at all, but rather division.  For from now on five in one house will be divided: three against two, and two against three.  Father will be against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law” (Luke 12:51-53).

How can this be?  The Messiah was to be the “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6-7).  Angels announced Jesus’ birth by saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!” (Luke 2:14).

Jesus’ message, if followed, leads to peace: Peace with God (Romans 5:1), and peace between men (Ephesians 2:14-18).  Christians are taught to be a peaceful people: “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men” (Romans 12:18); “Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14); “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence” (1 Timothy 2:1-2); “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matthew 5:9); “The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy” (James 3:17).

However, not all follow Jesus’ message.  John W. Haley comments, “A religion of inherent, radical purity could not be propagated in the world without awaking the fierce antagonism of everything impure and evil.  Hence would arise strife and division, bitter conflicts…” (Haley, Alleged Discrepancies, p. 119).  Oliver Greene comments, “When Jesus spoke of sending a sword to divide even the nearest relatives, we understand that He came for the purpose of teaching doctrine which would inevitably lead to this division to which He referred.  These evils were not what Jesus wished for, but they occur because men love darkness rather than light” (Greene, The Gospel According to Matthew, Vol. 2, p. 467).

Why does Jesus say this?  First, He wants us to know that there will be opposition.  Things will not always be easy. Opposition may come even from one’s own family. Second, He is challenging our committment and loyalty. It is in this context that He says – “He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me.  And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me.  And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me.  He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it” (Matthew 10:37-39). While we love our families, our loyalty to Him must surpass our devotion to them, and our desire for peace in our homes.

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Have You Been Circumcised?

Posted on July 18, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“In Him you were also circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the sins of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through Faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead” (Colossians 2:11-12).

Judaizing teachers, for years, tried to bind physical circumcision on gentile converts to Christianity (cf. Acts 15:1, 5; Galatians 2:1-4; 5:1-4; 6:15; 1 Corinthians 7:18-19; Colossians 2:11-12; 3:10-11).  They were wrong in this (Acts 15:23-29).  “Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing,  but the keeping of the commandments of God is what matters” (1 Corinthians 7:19).  Physical circumcision is not a part of the New Covenant.

However, there is a circumcision which is needed, spiritual circumcision.  This circumcision is performed without hands; meaning – this is something that God does and not man (cf. Daniel 2:34, 45; 8:25; Colossians 2:11-12).

There is a similarity between physical circumcision and spiritual circumcision.  The word “circumcision” literally means to “cut around.”  It refers to an operation to remove something.   The priests of old performed circumcision removing the foreskin of the male organ.  God performs circumcision removing sin.  He performs this operation when one is buried with Christ in baptism.  The same power which raised Jesus from physical death, removes one’s sins and raises one from spiritual death to walk in newness of life (Colossians 2:11-12 cf. 3:1-2; Ephesians 1:20 cf. 2:5-6; Romans 6:4).

Some have appealed to this circumcision illustration to try to defend infant baptism.  Therefore it is worth pointing out some dissimilarities between physical circumcision and spiritual circumcision.  (1) Physical circumcision was performed on Israelite males eight days old (Genesis 17:12; Leviticus 12:3).  The New Testament teaches that baptism is for those who believe (Mark 16:15-16; Acts 8:12; Acts 8:35-39; Acts 18:8).  (2) Physical circumcision was performed only on males (Genesis 17:14; Exodus 12:48).  Baptism is for both men and women (Acts 8:12; Galatians 3:26-28).  (3) Physical circumcision did not make one a Hebrew or an Israelite.  One was born such (Leviticus 23:42 k.j.v.; Romans 11:1).  Though, the uncircumcised were to be cut off (Genesis 17:14; Exodus 4:24-26).  Baptism places one in the Kingdom (John 3:5) and makes one a child of God (Galatians 3:26-28).  There are differences between physical circumcision and spiritual circumcision.

Additionally, let us point out that there is a circumcision we are to do.  God instructed Israel to circumcise their heart (Deuteronomy 10:16; Jeremiah 4:4).  One is not humble but stiff-necked and rebellious, if he is uncircumcised of heart and ears (cf. Leviticus 26:41; Jeremiah 6:10; Acts 7:51).  God desires us to be circumcised in the heart (Romans 2:26).  May we remove pride and rebellion and make our hearts and ears tender and receptive to His will. It takes a circumcised heart to receive circumcision from sin.

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Observing The Wind

Posted on July 13, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“He who observes the wind will not sow, and he who regards the clouds will not reap” (Ecclesiastes 11:4).

The meaning?  John Waddey comments, “His illustration is that of a farmer who is so concerned about having perfect conditions for sowing or reaping that he never gets his crop planted; or if he does, he fails to get it harvested” (Waddey, Ecclesiastes and Song of Solomon, A Exposition, p. 64).  Matthew Henry comments, “If the husbandman should decline, or leave off, sowing for the sake of every flying cloud, and reaping for the sake of every blast of wind, he would make an ill account of husbandry at the year’s end” (Henry’s Commentary, Vol. 3, p. 859).  Adam Clark comments, “If a man neither plough nor sow till the weather is entirely to his mind, the season will in all probability pass before he will have done anything” (Clark’s Commentary, Vol. 3, p. 834).

Too many excuse their inactivity by claiming that “It is not the right time.”  They claim that they are looking for the ideal circumstance.  However, such never seems to come.

There is much that needs to be done.  Life is short.  If we wait until all difficulties are removed, likely what needs to be done, will never be done.  Think on this.  Then, get to work!

“To the work!  To the work!  We are servants of God, Let us follow the path that our Master has trod; with the balm of His counsel our strength to renew, let us do with our might what our hands find to do” (Song: To The Work by Fanny Crosby).

“I want to be a worker for the Lord.  I want to love and trust His holy word; I want to sing and pray and be busy ev’ry day, in the vineyard of the Lord\I want to be a worker ev’ry day; I want to lead the erring in the way that leads to heav’n above Where all is peace and love, in the kingdom of the Lord\I want to be a worker strong and brave; I want to trust in Jesus pow’r to save; all who will truly come shall find a happy home in the kingdom of the Lord” (Song: I Want to be a Worker by I. Baltzell).

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Holding Down The Truth

Posted on July 7, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness” (Romans 1:18, KJV).

“For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness” (Romans 1:18, NKJV).

The original word Katecho comes from Kata, which means “down,” and echo which means “hold,”  It is used in this passage of “unrighteous man who restrain the spread of the truth by their unrighteousness” (Vine’s).

God’s people are to shine as lights in this world.  Jesus said, “You are the light of the world… Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16).  Paul wanted the Philippian brethren to be “children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation,” adding, “among whom you shine as lights in the world” (Philippians 2:15).  Peter wrote, “Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles…” (1 Peter 2:11-12).

When we are not what we should be, our behavior can hinder others from receiving the truth.  Consider: “You therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself?  You who preach that a man should not steal, do you steal?  You who say, ‘Do not commit adultery,’ do you commit adultery?  You who abhor idols, do you rob temples?  You who make your boast in the law, do you dishonor God through breaking the law?  For ‘the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you,’  as it is written” (Romans 2:21-24).  Let us be careful that we do not become a hindrances to the truth.

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A Lesson on Borrowing

Posted on June 23, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

The Bible is clear that we should be willing to lend and share, if we are able, with those in need.  “A good man deals graciously and lends” (Psalm 112:5).  “Give to  him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away” (Matthew 5:42).  “(Those who are rich) Let them do good, that they may be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share… that they may lay hold on eternal life” (2 Timothy 6:18-19).  There are qualifications to these work.  One has a duty to first provide for his own family (Matthew 15:3-6; 1 Timothy 5:4, 8, 16).  Next, one is to give priority to helping Christian brethren who are in need (Galatians 6:10).  Then, others should be helped as we have opportunity (and ability).  Moreover, one should not enable bad behavior (2 Thessalonians 3:10).

But, what about the borrower?  Does he have a responsibility?  I do believe that he does, and such is the focus of this writing.

Have you ever loaned something to someone, only to be disappointed at the condition of the item when it was returned?  Have you ever borrowed something from someone, and had it break or be damaged, while it was in your possession?  What does the Bible say about this?  Consider from the Old Testament: (1) “The wicked borrows and does not repay” (Psalm 37:21).  We should return what we borrow.  (2) “If a man borrows anything from his neighbor, and it becomes injured or dies, the owner of it not being with it, he shall surely make it good” (Exodus 22:14).  One should try to replace, repair, or pay damage to the lender.  (3) “When they came to the Jordan, they cut down trees.  But as one was cutting down a tree, the iron ax head fell into the water; and he cried out and said, ‘Alas, Master!  For it was borrowed.”  (2 Kings 6:4-5).  This is what one of the “sons of the prophets” said to Elisha.  He was greatly concerned, not simply for the loss of the ax head, but because it was borrowed.  Elisha miraculous caused the iron to float, and it was retrieved (2 Kings 6:6-7).  The righteous take their responsibility to care for borrowed items seriously.  True, these are Old Testament passages, but does God expect less care for others property today?

Consider the word of John and the New Testament: (1) “Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the law and the prophets” (Matthew 7:12).  (2) “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men” (Romans 12:18).  (3) “Love does no harm to a neighbor, therefore love is the fulfillment of the law” (Romans 13:10).  (4) “Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others (Philippians 2:4).  True, these passages are not specifically addressing the borrowing issue, but is there not an application?

I have seen many problems develop between brethren over borrowed items.  I have seen friendships damaged over such.  Many problems could be avoided if the above passages were considered.

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The Value of Asking Questions

Posted on June 21, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out” (Proverbs 20:5).

Here is what some have said of this passage:

(1)  Adam Clark – “Men of the deepest and most comprehensive minds are rarely apt, unsolicited, to join in any discourse in which they might appear even to the greatest advantage; but a man of understanding will elicit this, by questions framed for the purpose, and this pump up the salubrious waters from the deep and capacious well.”

(2)  Matthew Henry – “A man’s wisdom is here said to be of use to him for the pumping of other people… to get knowledge of them… some are very able and fit to give counsel… but they are modest, and reserved, and not communicative; they have a good deal in them, but it is loth to come out.  In such a case a man of understanding will draw it out… we lose the benefit we might have by the conversion of wise men for want of the art of being inquisitive.”

(3)  Albert Barnes – “Every question is, as it were, a turning of the windlass.”

Will Rogers once said, “Everyone is ignorant (of something).  We are just ignorant of different things.”  The most knowledgeable of humans, no doubt, know only a small fraction of the sum total of human knowledge.  The point is: There is a vast wealth of wisdom and knowledge in the people around us.  A wise person asks questions.  He seeks to learn.

The disciples and others asked Jesus many spiritual questions (e.g. Mark 4:10; 7:17; 10:10; 10:17; 12:28; 13:3-4).  The apostles were asked spiritual questions (e.g. Acts 2:37; 16:30; 1 Corinthians 7:1a).  Do you care enough about spiritual matters to ask questions?

My advice is two-fold:  First, never stop asking questions.  Ask questions to self as you read.  Ask questions to others.  An inquisitive mind is a helpful thing in preventing stagnation in Biblical knowledge.  Second, test all answers with God’s word (Acts 17:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:21).  Remember that, “His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness” (2 Peter 1:3).  Scripture and doctrine must harmonize.  Thomas Warren points out – “Any doctrine which implies a fake doctrine is itself a false doctrine” (Warren, Logic and the Bible, p. 68).

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Peace Series: Peace and Goodwill Toward Men!

Posted on June 7, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“The Dayspring on high has visited us… to guide our feet into the way of peace” (Luke 1:78-79).

The Dayspring refers to the rising of the sun.  The prophets depicted the coming Messiah as a coming light (Isaiah 9:1-2 cf. Matthew 4:16; Isaiah 60:1-3; Malachi 4:2).  Jesus is the true light (John 1:4-5; 1:9; 3:19; 8:12; 12:46-48; 2 Corinthians 4:4; 2 Timothy 1:10).  J.W. McGarvey comments, “Travelers in the Judean mountains often waited patiently for the morning light, lest they should lose their lives by a false step taken in the darkness” (McGarvey, The Fourfold Gospel, p. 22).  Burt Groves comments, “As the sun blesses man with physical light, the gospel brings enlightenment to guide him to heaven” (Groves, The Gospel According to Luke Commentary, p. 12).

“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God saying: ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!‘” (Luke 2:13-14).

Jesus’ first coming was not to condemn the lost.  “God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved” (John 3:17).

Many did not, and do not, receive this message of peace.  (a) “He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him” (John 1:11).  (b) “This condemnation, that light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil” (John 3:19).

Some did, and do.  (a) “As many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become Children of God, to those who believe in His name; who were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, but of God” (John 1:12-13).  Those who believe have the right to become children of God. Man’s response starts with belief.  Let us point out that there is a difference between having the right to become something, and actually being something.  A man may have the right to become a member of a certain credit union, but that does not mean that he is a member.  A man may have the right to become a citizen of a certain country, but that does not mean that he is a citizen.  God’s children are born of God (John 1:13 cf. 3:3; Galatians 3:26-28).  They are not born of blood (literally plural ‘bloods’ – mother and fathers; Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, etc.  It is not a fleshly birth).  They are born of God.  (b) “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God” (John 3:18).  Belief, as used here, refers to an obedient belief which accepts and responds to His authority for salvation (cf. John 3:3, 5, 21; Hebrews 5:9). Have you?

“Tell me the story of Jesus, write on my heart every word;  Tell me the story most precious, sweetest that ever was heard; Tell how the angels in chorus, sang as they welcomed His birth: ‘Glory to God in the highest! Peace and good tidings on earth'” (song: Tell me the story of Jesus by Fanny Crosby).

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Peace Series: Righteousness and Peace Have Kissed

Posted on June 2, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Mercy and truth have met together; righteousness and peace have kissed” (Psalm 85:10).

If God demanded righteous according to truth without mercy there could be no peace.  This is true because “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).  “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us” (1 John 1:8).  “If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us” (1 John 1:10).

If God only cared about mercy and peace, then truth and righteousness would be neglected.  There would be little incentive for righteous behavior.

Tom Wacaster comments, “In human governments, the balance between truth and mercy are difficult to achieve.  If punishment is inflicted to the full measure, then there is no mercy shown, and hopelessness sets in.  On the other hand, if mercy is shown and justice is ignored, the unlawful go unpunished and lawlessness reigns.  It is only in the Divine government that mercy and truth come together in exact proportion” (Wacaster, The Songs and Devotions of David, Vol. 4, p. 221).

Many believe that these things ultimately and perfectly meet in Jesus Christ.  Tom Wacaster comments, “It is only in the Divine government that mercy and truth come together in exact proportion.  This finds its ultimate fulfillment in the atonement of Christ our Lord” (Wacaster, p.221).  Adam Clark comments, “Truth requires righteousness; mercy calls for peace.  They meet together on the way; one going to make inquisition for sin, the other to plead for reconciliation.  Having met… their mutual claims are blended together in one common interest; on which peace and righteousness immediately embrace… Now where do these meet?  In Christ Jesus.  When were they reconciled?  When He poured out His life on Calvary?  (Clark’s Commentary, Vol. 3, p. 486).  “Grace and truth came through Jesus Christ” (John 1:17).

Righteousness and peace kiss.  Albert Barnes comments, “As friends and lovers do; as they do who have been long separated; as they do who after having been alienated and estranged, are made friends again… they have now been united … and have embraced each other as friends do; that is, they blend together in beautiful harmony” (Barnes Notes, Vol. 4, p. 351).

God’s mercy does not out-run His truth.  Tom Wacaster comments, “Mercy and truth are inseparably linked together.  If God is to maintain His holy and righteous nature, mercy can only be extended so far as truth allows.  He will never contradict His own word, nor will He grant mercy contrary to His divine promises” (Wacaster, p.221).  He means what He says.  He does not lie (Hebrews 6:18; Titus 1:1-2).  He cannot deny Himself (2 Timothy 2:11-13).

“Truth shall spring up from the earth, and righteousness shall look down from heaven.  Yes, the LORD will give what is good, and our land will yield its increase” (Psalm 85:11-12).

God provides what man needs.  Albert Barnes comments, “There is not an intended contrast between the two clauses of this verse, as if truth came from the earth, and righteousness from heaven; but the idea is that they would come in a manner that might be compared with the way in which God’s other abundant blessings are bestowed, as springing on the one hand from the fertility of the earth, and on the other hand from the rain, the dew, and the sun-beam” (Barnes, pp. 350-351).  God provides His word; man must provide the right type of heart (cf. Luke 8:11-15).  Through God’s provisions, man can be saved (Romans 1:16).

Some see this as a reference to the fullness of truth which came through Jesus. Tom Wacaster comments, “Perhaps we are being somewhat bold to suggest that this is a prophetic reference to the coming Messiah.  Did not He say that He is ‘the way, the truth, and the life’ (John 14:6)?  Who would argue that God’s mercy and truth met ultimately in Christ?… If the language is NOT prophetic, it certainly finds its greatest application in Jesus our redeemer” (Wacaster, p. 222).

“Righteousness will go before Him, and shall make His footsteps our path” (Psalm 85:13).

Some believe that this foresees John’s ministry.  Albert Barnes comments, “The idea seems to be, that in order to his appearing, there would be a proclamation of righteousness, and a preparation for his advent by the diffusion of righteousness among the people… Thus John proclaimed the coming of the Redeemer, ‘Repent ye, for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand'” (Barnes, p. 351).  Tom Wacaster comments, “Our opinion is that there is a prophetic note here concerning the work of John the Baptist” (Wacaster, p. 223).

Others believe that this refers to Jesus’ ministry.  James Burton Coffman comments, “This says that righteousness shall go before God; and the only time that ever happened on earth was in the instances in which Jesus Christ lived his life during the incarnation before God during his earthly ministry” (Coffman, web link) Adam Clark also is of this opinion (Clark, p. 487). He references Romans 3:25, which reads, “Whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus” (Romans 3:25-26).

While we may have some uncertainty about some specific details, the basic message is clear.  God is a God of truth and righteousness; God is also a God of mercy and peace.  There is absolute unbending truth.  There is also the offer of mercy contained within this truth.  Moreover, the Bible teaches that the ultimate fulfillment of these things is found in Jesus Christ (whether or not such He is primarily in view in this context).

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