The Seven Signs: Feeding Over 5,000 (John 6:1-14)

Posted on January 14, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

Jesus once said, “The very works that I do bear witness of me, that the Father has sent me” (John 5:36).  The “works” of which he spoke included miraculous signs (cf. 10:19-21, 24-25, 37-38).  This is the only miracle which is recorded in all four accounts (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John).

The Setting

The twelve had been sent out on a preaching tour through Israel to proclaim, “the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 10:1-15; Mark 6:7-13; Luke 9:1-6).  They, having completed their tour, now return to Jesus and report on what had been done (Mark 6:30; Luke 9:10).

Jesus says, “Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while” (Mark 6:31; Luke 9:10).  Thus, they set out for some rest and relaxation.

However, they do not escape unnoticed.  They are spotted leaving the area, and a multitude begins to follow them.  They follow because: (1) John the baptizer has been recently beheaded (Matthew 14:1-12; Mark 6:14-29).  John’s disciples are somewhat like sheep without a shepherd (cf. Mark 6:34).  Except, they did know that John had pointed them to Jesus (cf. John 1:29-30; 35-37; 3:28-30; 5:31-33).  So, they turn to him.  (2) They have witnessed the signs (John 6:2).

The Sign

The multitude follows Jesus into the desert.  There, he has compassion on the people.  He also heals the sick (Matthew 14:14; Luke 9:11).

However, there appears to be a problem.  The multitude is large, five thousand men, plus women and children (Matthew 14:21).  It is getting late (Matthew 14:15; Mark 6:35; Luke 9:12).  The people are hungry (they had spontaneously followed without adequate provisions).  Where could food be found for so many?  Moreover, if found, how would it be paid for? (John 6:5-7).  A search is made (Mark 6:38).  Five loaves and two fishes were found among the multitude, but what were they among such a number? (John 6:8-9).

Jesus has the disciples organize the crowd into groups of fifty [(Luke 9:14; Mark 6:40).  Perhaps this is done to make service efficient and to ensure that no one is neglected].  He prays, giving thanks to God (John 6:11 cf. Matthew 14:19; Mark 6:41; Luke 9:16).  The multitude is miraculously fed.  They received “as much as they wanted” (John 6:11).  In fact, there are leftovers (Matthew 14:20; Mark 6:43; Luke 9:17; John 6:12-13).  The people exclaim, “this is truly the prophet who is come into the world!” (John 6:14).

Lessons

  1. Jesus fed the multitude physical food.  However, he is the bread of life (John 6: 35, 48).  He has something far greater to offer than relief from physical hunger (John 6:27, 49-51, 63).
  2. He fed the multitude in an orderly manner (Luke 9:14).  We should do things “decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40).  The early church was organized in such a way that the Grecian widows were not neglected (Acts 6:1-ff).  We should make more effort to make sure that no one gets left out or “falls through the cracks”.
  3. Jesus instructed that the fragments be gathered up “so that nothing is lost” (John 6:12).  Perhaps we should learn from this to be frugal and not wasteful.

 

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The Seven Signs: Healing After Thirty-eight Years (John 5:1-15)

Posted on January 11, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

There are different words used to describe the miracles of the Bible: (1) “Miracle” (e.g. Luke 23:8, Acts 2:22). This word is from the Greek “dunamis” (it is from this word we derive our word dynamite). The word refers to “power” (Vine’s). It refers to the supernatural power of God. (2) “Wonder” (e.g. Acts 4:29-30; 5:12). The Greek word is “teras”. It refers to “something so strange as to cause it to be ‘watched’ or ‘observed’ . . .” (Thayer). The word has reference to the wonderment, and amazement of those who witnessed it (cf. Matthew 15:31; Acts 3:7-10; 7:30-31; 8:13). (3) “Work” or “deed” (e.g. Luke 10:13; 24:19; Acts 2:11; 2 Corinthians 12:12). The word, “ergon,”  (work) has reference to the deed itself, while the term “miracle” has reference to the source, and the word “wonder” has reference to the reaction of witnesses.

However, the word that we are interested in is the word, (4) “Sign” (e.g. John 2:11; 4:54; 6:14; 12:18; Acts 2:22). The word “semeion,” though sometimes translated “miracle” by the KJV, should be rendered “sign”. It refers to “a sign, mark, indication, token” (Vine’s). In other words, the design of the miracle was to lead us to something beyond the miracle itself (cf. John 3:2).

Today, we consider the third sign of John.

The Setting

The occasion is one of the feasts of the Jews (John 5:1). Jesus faithfully keeps these feasts (John 2:13, 21; 5:1; 7:2, 14, 37; 12:1, 12-13) as the law instructed (Exodus 23:17; 34:23; Deuteronomy 16:16).

The location is Jerusalem (John 5:1). More specifically, the pool of Bethesda (John 5:2). Note: the word “Bethesda” means “house of mercy”. This pool has five “porches” (NASB) or “roofed colonnades” (ESV). The word refers to covered areas.

The sick gather at this place. One reason may have been the covered areas where one could get out of the sun and rain. The reason stated is that this pool was believed to have healing properties, perhaps even supernatural properties. The question is often asked, “Did angels really stir the waters?” certain manuscripts omit verse four. However, it is clear that the waters did intermittently stir (v. 7). Bruce Metzger writes “verse 4 is a gloss, whose secondary character is clear from (1) its absence from the earliest and best witnesses, (2) the presence of asterisks or obeli to mark the words as spurious in more than twenty Greek witnesses” (A textual commentary on the Greek New Testament). Many believe that the words were added to explain a common belief. However, whether an angel stirred the water or not, the sick, who gather at this site, believed in the healing properties of the stirring water.

The Sign

The subject is a man, who had an infirmity for thirty-eight years (John 5:5). His infirmity involves his ability to move (John 5:7-9). The man did not know Jesus (cf. John 5:13). He certainty did not expect Jesus to heal him (cf. John 5:6-7, Note: he is still looking to the water). However, Jesus did heal him (John 5:8-9).

The Jews (Jewish leaders cf. John 1:19; 5:10; 7:1; 9:20-22) are not pleased. This healing took place on the Sabbath (John 5:9-10, 16). Concerning the Sabbath: (1) It is true that normal daily work was not to take place on the Sabbath (Exodus 20:8-10; 31:12-15). (2) It is also true that no commercial burdens were to be transported on the Sabbath (Nehemiah 13:19-20). (3) However, it is not true that all activities were to cease on the Sabbath. (a) The priests circumcised (Matthew 12:5). (b) Food could be prepared (Exodus 12:16; Matthew 12:1-8). (d) The Jews rescued their animals on the Sabbath (Luke 14:1-6; Matthew 12:11). The Jews had a perverted understanding of the Sabbath. Their priorities were mixed up in placing the day over doing good, and in valuing their animals and property over their fellow man.

The man went to the temple, perhaps to praise God for the healing. Jesus finds him there, and warns him that he should “sin no more, lest a worse thing come” upon him (John 5:14-15). Does this suggest that his infirmity had been a result of some sin (e.g. drunk stumbling in front of an ox-cart) or, does this simply suggest that Jesus wants him to understand that there is something worse than physical infirmity? It certainly suggests at least the later.

Lessons

  1. Jesus kept the feast days (John 2:13, 21; 5:1; 7:2, 14, 37; 12:1, 12-13). There is an application for us (Hebrews 10:24-25).
  2. Jesus’ miracles were amazing. Even long-term infirmities could be healed (John 5:1-15; 9:1-12; 11:39; Luke 8:43-48 cf. Acts 3:1-10).
  3. It was not a violation of the Sabbath to show mercy to others on the Sabbath (cf. Hosea 6:6). We no doubt can learn from this principle to have proper priorities.
  4. A life of sin leads to something worse than physical infirmities (John 5:14-15).

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The Seven Signs: Healing from Afar (John 4:46-54)

Posted on January 9, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

The number seven plays a prominent part in John’s writings. In the book of Revelation there are: seven churches (2:1; 2:8; 2:12; 2:18; 3:1, 3:7; 3:14), seven seals (6:1; 6:3; 6:5; 6:7; 6:9; 6:12; 8:1), seven trumpets (8:6-7; 8:8; 8:10; 8:12; 9:1; 9:13; 11:15), and seven beatitudes (1:3; 14:13; 16:15; 19:9; 20:6; 22:7; 22:14). In the book of 1 John there are: seven tests (1:6; 1:8; 1:10; 2:4; 2:6; 2:9; 4:20), and seven contrasts [light v. darkness (1:5-2:11); Father v. world (2:12-2:17); Christ v. antichrist (2:18; 2:28); good v. evil (2:29-3:10); spirit of truth v. spirit of error (4:1-4:6); true love v. false love (4:7-4:21); begotten v. unbegotten 5:1-5:21)].

In the book of John, there are seven “I am” statements made by Jesus: [1. Bread of life (6:35, 48); 2. Light of the world (8:12; 9:5); 3. Door (10:7, 9); 4: Good shepherd (10:11, 14); 5. Resurrection and life (11:25); 6. The way, the truth, and the life (14:6). 7. True vine (15:1)]. There are also seven signs to back up these seven statements (2:1-11; 4:46-54; 5:1-15; 6:1-14; 6:16-21; 9:1-41; 11:1-45). Today, we look at the second of the seven signs.

The Setting

The second sign involves two locations. Jesus is in Cana of Galilee, having recently returned from Judea. The one “sick,” and “at the point of death” is in Capernaum. The distance between these two places is about 20 miles, or a day’s journey by foot.

The father of the one sick is described as a “nobleman”. The word “‘basilikos” is used by Josephus, the Jewish historian, to denote a royal officer or servant, whether of civil, military, or household service” (Woods, A Commentary on John, p. 91). He, having heard that Jesus is relatively close by, travels to him and begs him to come down and heal his son (John 4:46-47).

Jesus replies, “unless you people see signs and wonders, you will by no means believe” (John 4:48). Ouch! It is possible that this man is not a real believer, but only turns to Jesus out of desperation. It is possible that Jesus understands this from the man’s heart (cf. John 2:25). However, it should be pointed out that “you” is plural. These words include the greater audience and masses. It is also possible that Jesus is simply saying that he does miracles so that they will believe, but that the message is more important than the miracle.

The father responds, “Sir, come down before my child dies!” (John 4:49). In other words, “I am not interested in theological discussions about my faith, at this point. All I know is that my son is about to die, and if you can do something, then I beg you please come with me. We are in a race against death.”

The Sign

Jesus tells the man “Go your way; your son lives” (John 4:50). Paraphrase: “My immediate presence is not required.” The man starts for Capernaum. He is met by some of his servants along the way. They come bearing good news. The fever had left the child on the seventh hour of the previous day, the same hour that Jesus had said, “Go your way; your son lives.”

Interesting note: “The father inquired of the servant when his son began to amend; that is, gradually get better. Evidently, he had not expected sudden and complete healing. His servants … pointed out that the fever ‘left’ him, i.e., had wholly vanished. The healing was total and complete” (ibid, p. 93).

Lessons

  1.  Jesus knew and could do things even from a distance (John 1:47-48; 4:16-18; 4:49-53; 11:14; Luke 7:1-10).
  2. God at times may seem distant from us, specifically spatially. In reality, He is not. He is not limited by space.  Read Psalm 139:1-4; Proverb 15:3; Jeremiah 23:23-24.
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The Seven Signs: Water to Wine (John 2:1-11)

Posted on January 8, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

The number seven was a significant number to the Jews.  The Hebrew term for seven “comes from the Hebrew SHEVAH which means ‘to be full, satisfied, or enough’… Perfection and fullness are… symbolized in this number.”

The book of John contains seven signs (semeion).  These seven signs are set forth to convince us that Jesus is the Christ.  John writes, “And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in his name (John 20:30-31).

The Setting

The location is Cana of Galilee, located about nine miles north of Jesus’ hometown of Nazareth.  The occasion is a wedding.  Whose wedding it is, we are not told.  However, Jesus’ mother, Mary, seems to be very involved in helping host the event.

The difficulty is “they ran out of wine” (John 2:3).  This is an embarrassing, awkward situation.  What can be done?  Mary turns to Jesus, “They have no wine.”  Why Mary turns to Jesus is not clear.  What is she expecting?  Jesus could do no miracles until the Holy Spirit came upon Him (Luke 3:22-23 cf. 4:18-19; Acts 10:38-39; Matthew 12:28).  Such had occurred only recently (cf. John 1:29-ff).  Moreover, the first miracle of Jesus recorded in scripture is what occurs here at Cana (cf. John 2:11).  Some have suggested that she is not expecting a miracle but is asking for help or advice – “Is there something we can do?”  But, such does not seem to fit Jesus’ response to her (John 2:4).  Others have suggested that she has heard of the events surrounding his baptism, and that while he may not have done any miraculous works on physical matter, he has demonstrated super-natural knowledge (John 1:47-50).  Whatever her thoughts, she does approach her son with the problem.

Jesus responds by saying, “Woman, what does your concern have to do with me?  My hour has not yet come” (John 2:4).  The term “woman” shows no disrespect.  It’s a common manner of address (cf. John 4:21; 8:10; 19:26-27; 20:11-13, 15).  The words “what does your concern have to do with me” are a common wording in the Bible (cf. Judges 11:12; 2 Samuel 16:10; 1 Kings 17:18; 2 Kings 3:13).  Here, it is being used as a mild rebuke.  Robert Taylor, Jr., commented, “Mary was not… the director of His messianic mission” (Studies in the Gospel of John, p. 31).  The words “my hour has not yet come” indicates that she is pushing his timing.  The term “hour” has a specific usage in John (John 7:30; 8:20; 12:23-24, 27; 17:1 cf. Matthew 26:45).  The term “hour” has to do with His glorification.  Mary may have wanted Jesus to be glorified then and there.  However, a miracle at Cana was not the way to His ultimate glory.

The Sign

Jesus agrees to help.  He instructs that six water pots, each with a capacity of 20-30 gallons, be filled with water to the brim (John 2:5-7).  [Now observe these facts – (a) Jesus never touches the pots.   (b) The pots are filled to the brim.  This eliminates the opportunity for something to being added to the water.]  Jesus turns this water into 120-180 gallons of wine.  Moreover, this wine is superior in quality to the earlier wine (John 2:8-10).

Did Jesus turn this water into alcoholic wine?  (1) The term “wine” is “oinos”, a generic term which can refer to either alcoholic wine, or non-alcoholic wine (grape juice).  (2) The Proverbs warn men not even to look upon wine (Proverbs 23:31).  (3) “The Talmud indicates that drinking to the accompaniment of musical instruments on festive occasions such as a wedding was forbidden” (Bacchiocchi, Wine in the Bible, p. 42.  Citing – Sotah 48a and Mishna Sotah 9,11).  (4) Under the New Testament, we’re taught (a) to be sober (1 Thessalonians 5:6, 8; Titus 2:2; 1 Peter 1:13; 5:8.  “Nepho” lit. “not to drink”).  (b) Not to be drunk, Ephesians 5:18. [Methusko “an inceptive verb, marking the process (to intoxication, B.H.)” Vines’s]

Objections: (1) The references to superior quality seems to indicate that alcoholic wine is in view.  This is not true.  Grape juices differ in quality.  (2) “Well drunk” (John 2:10) indicates that intoxicating wine is in view.  The American Standard simply renders this “drunk freely”.  There is nothing in the word which suggests alcoholic wine.  Moreover, IF this wording means intoxication, then Jesus provided more alcohol for drunk folks!

In nature, water is drawn by the roots of a grapevine and over time a grape and juice from that grape is produced.  Jesus accomplished in a moment what takes months to accomplish in nature.

Lessons

  1. It is okay to enjoy life (cf. Proverbs 5:18; 17:22; 1 Timothy 6:17).  Jesus’ first miracle was at a marriage feast.
  2. Jesus respects marriage (cf. Hebrews 13:4).  Not only did He attend the feast, His first miracle was performed at this wedding feast.
  3. Jesus demonstrates power over nature.
  4. Jesus brings good things to man.  While Moses turned water into blood (Exodus 4:9; 7:20), Jesus turned water into wine (John 2).  Moses brought a curse; Jesus brought a blessing.
  5. Jesus can change things.  He changed water into wine.  He changed a sinner into a saint (cf. Acts 22:16).
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Seeing God in Nature

Posted on January 4, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

“Have you ever stood at the ocean with the white foam at your feet, felt the endless thundering motion? Then, I say, you’ve seen Jesus my Lord. / Have you ever stood at the sunset with the sky mellowing red, seen the clouds suspended like feathers? Then, I say, you’ve seen Jesus my Lord.” (Song: Have You Seen Jesus My Lord by John Fischer).

It is true that something of the creator can be seen in creation. Nature’s God and Creator is seen in nature.  This is a Biblical thought (Psalm 19:1; Romans 1:20). In this writing, we’ll ponder God from nature.

1. Star Gazing (Psalm 8).

Imagine David, the shepherd boy, at night with the sheep looking up at the moon and stars above in amazement. He, gazing at creation above, ponders, “when I consider Your heavens, the works of Your fingers, the man and the stars which You have ordained, what is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You visit him? (Psalm 8:3-4).

The term “heavens” refers to a lofty or high place. It is equated in context with the location of the moon and the stars (Genesis 1:14-17; Deuteronomy 8:3; Ps. 19:3-4). Note: The sun is not mentioned because this is a night scene.

The word “ordained” means to set in place. He recognized God as the creator of the universe (cf. Genesis 1:1; Hebrews 3:4).

The word “visit” carries the meaning of having concern or care. The NASB reads, “What is man that Thou dost take thought of him? And the son of man that Thou dost care for him?” The ESV reads, “What is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?”

Space is vast. The moon is an average 240,000 miles from earth; the sun is an average 93 million miles from earth. However, these things are relatively near. “If we drew a map of the Milky Way galaxy, and represented the earth and the sun as two dots one inch apart (thus a scale of one inch equals 93 million miles…) we would need a map at least four miles wide to locate the next nearest star and a map 25,000 miles wide to reach the center of our galaxy” (Bert Thompson and Wayne Jackson, The Case of the Existence of God, p. 19).

Think of the numbers. Carl Sagan estimated that there might be as many as 10 billion trillion stars (Billions and Billions, p. 3). It is estimated that the unaided human eye can potentially see 3,000 stars on a moonless, cloudless night away from city light pollution. Whatever the number the Bible indicates that God knows each one (Psalm 147:4-5).

When one considers such size and numbers, how great our God must be! Yet, He cares for man who is so small and weak in this vast universe. In fact, the things above were made for us (Genesis 1:14-19). Moreover, such was made to tell us something of the nature of our God (Psalm 19:1). What a God we have!

2. Sun Bathing (Psalm 19).

Imagine David outdoors observing the sun’s “rising” and its eventual “setting”. His thoughts turn to God. “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork … In them He has set a tabernacle for the sun, which is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoices like a strong man to run its race. Its rising is from one end of heaven, and its circuit to the other end; there is nothing hidden from its heat” (Psalm 19:1-6).

The “heavens” refer to a lofty or high place. The “firmament” refers to an expanse, something stretched-out, the NASB reads “expanse”. It is equated in context with the location of the tabernacle (or dwelling place) of the sun.

David was no atheist. He called the universe God’s “handiwork” or the work of God’s hands.

The sun is compared to a bridegroom appearing. The reference no doubt is to the sun’s “rising”. It’s appearing brings joy (cf. John 3:29). Matthew Henry comments, “He is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, richly dressed and adorned, as fine as hand can make him, looking pleasantly himself and making all about him pleasant”. Charles Spurgeon remarked, “No other creature yields such joy to the earth as her bridegroom the sun (recorded by Robert R. Taylor, Jr., Studies in Psalms, p. 37).

The sun is compared to a strong man running a race. Some christian apologists have pointed out that the sun actually moves. It moves at a rate of 600,000 mph on a circuit that is so large that it would take 220,000,000 years (at this rate) to complete one orbit (Bert Thompson and Wayne Jackson, A Study Course in Christian Evidences, p. 133). However, it seems to me that the language concerns life from an earthly vantage point. It is speaking of the “rising” and “setting” of the sun. The sun runs this course with endurance. There is nothing on earth hidden from its heat.

The sun is enormous. It is estimated that 1,300,000 earths could fit inside the sun (www.suntrek.org). The sun’s diameter is 109 times that of the earth (hypertextbook.com). The sun is hot. Its surface temperature is thought to be 9900oF or 5500oC (Doug Lambier and Robert Stevenson, Genesis for Kids, p. 74). The sun is set at the right distance for proper heat and tidal flow for life existence on earth. What a God we have!

3. Storm Watching (Psalm 29).

Charles Spurgeon commented, “Just as the eighth Psalm is to be read by the moonlight, when the stars are bright, as the nineteenth needs the rays of the rising sun to bring out its beauty, so this can be best rehearsed beneath the black wing of tempest, by the glare of lightning, or amid that dubious dusk which heralds the war of elements. The verses march to the tune of the thunderbolts” (recorded by Roy Deaver, Commentary on the Book of Psalms, vol. 1, p. 94).

Imagine David listening to a storm approach. He says, “The voice of the LORD is over the waters; The God of glory thunders… The voice of the LORD is powerful; The voice of the LORD is majestic” (Psalm 29:3-ff). The “voice of the LORD” is used in scripture to describe thunder (consider—Exodus 9:23, 28, 29; Job 37:4; Psalm 18:13; Psalm 29; Isaiah 30:30). This is a figure of speech, a metonymy, the cause (the LORD) is put for the effect (thunder and lightning).

David hears the storm on the move. It was first over the water; likely, the reference is to the Mediterranean Sea. It then moved into land. (1) It broke cedar trees (Psalm 29:5); perhaps, this was due to accompanying winds or lightning. (2) It shook the earth as if a calf or young ox was skipping in close proximity to the Psalmist (Psalm 29:6). (3) It divides [lit. cuts out, “hews out” (NASB)] the flames of fire (Psalm 29:7); perhaps, this refers to lightning, or to the resulting fires. It is said “on average Midwest thunderstorm generates enough electrical output to power the entire United States for twenty minutes” (www.ehow.com). Note: There are about 1800 thunderstorms occurring at any given moment around the world (www.factmonster.com). (4) It shakes the wilderness (Psalm 29:8). (5) It prompts the deer to give birth (Psalm 29:9). (6) It strips the forest bare (Psalm 29:9).

Thunderstorms can be frightening. It is said that the Emperor Caligula regularly hid himself under his bed when it powerfully thundered (Suetonius/The Twelve Caesars/Gaius, p. 51).

Lightening is beneficial. It transforms nitrogen into a usable form (N2 to NO3). “Worldwide, storms are estimated to produce one hundred million tons of useful nitrogen compounds each year. Recent studies indicate that up to one-half of all usable nitrogen in the soil is fixed or made usable by the energy of lightening” (Donald DeYoung, Weather and the Bible, pp. 89-90). Moreover, lightening may serve as a catalyst which expedites precipitation (answers.yahoo; Job 37:1-6). What a God we have!

4. Nature Walking (Matthew 6:26, 28, 30).

Go for a walk. Notice the things around you. God provides for the birds. Are we not more precious than they are? (Matthew 6:26; 10:29, 31). God provides for the plants. However, remember that it is to man dominion was given. We even burn such plants in our ovens. Do we think that He can’t care for us? He does provide for us. Moreover, He has promised that if we seek Him first His special providence will be with us (Matthew 6:33). What a God we have!

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A Time to Every Purpose

Posted on January 2, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

“To everything – turn, turn, turn; There is a season – turn, turn, turn; And a time to every purpose under heaven.” Such are the words of a popular song from 1965 by the Byrds. Yet, these words are sourced from the Bible (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8).

I believe that these words though well-known, are often misunderstood. Many believe that the Bible is teaching that everything on the list is approved of by God, if the time is right.

Such is not the context. Watch the words “under heaven” or the equivalent “under the sun”. These words occur some 32 times in the book. The meaning is: these are things which take place on this earth. John Waddy commented, “The words of (Ecclesiastes) 3:1-9, often quoted by poets and songwriters, must be interpreted in light of the conclusion in verse 9, ‘What profit hath he wherein he laboreth?’ The answer is none of a permanent nature. The constant changing cycles of life are illustrated by 14 common examples from daily life. In this passage he neither recommends or condemns any of the practices. Rather, he only stresses the one fact – that today’s positive act will eventually be balanced by tomorrow’s negative” (Ecclesiastes and Song of Solomon, p. 22). My friends all that is being said is that these are things which take place upon this earth.

The List

1. Some will be born today, and some will die. Such is life. The natural order dictates that everyone who’s born will die. Our physical existence is not permanent.

2. Man plants plants and man plucks up what is planted. The cycle of life is not just upon man, but all living things (cf. Genesis 8:22).

3. Man kills and heals. At this moment someone somewhere in the world may be killing an animal either to put it out of its misery, or to use for food, or clothing. Someone else may be healing an animal back to health.

4. A time to break down and a time to build are also a part of this earth. Man builds building, but nothing is permanent (cf. Luke 13:3). Sometimes things need to be razed for safety reasons, or to build a more functional structure.

5. There is both weeping and mourning (John 11:35; Acts 8:2), and laughter and dancing – Joy, if you will, in this world (Job 21:11-13; Luke 15:25-27). I’ve noticed while headed to a graveside: the sadness of those who’ve suffered the loss of a relative,but outside the car window people laughing, going fishing, and enjoying life.

6. Man somewhere today may be casting away stones, maybe to clear a field or to prepare to build (Isaiah 5:2; Jeremiah 1:10); Somewhere else others may be gathering stones for use in a fence, landscape, or stone house. Man in many places are busy with “purpose”.

7. Some at this moment are taking time to embrace (cf. Acts 20:36-38); still others are refraining from embracing, perhaps because there are things to do (cf. Acts 21:1), or even out of anger. These things are likewise “purposed under heaven”.

8. There is a time to get, and a time to lose. In modern language we might say that there is “a time to buy and a time to sell” (And in any transaction someone is doing one, while someone else is doing the other).

9. There is a time to keep, and a time to cast away. Someone might hold on to something, “just in case he needs it” or for sentimental value; while another wouldn’t think twice about discarding it. “One man’s junk is another man’s treasure.”

10. There is a time to rend and a time to sow. Somewhere someone is toiling to make a garment (Proverbs 31:19, 21-22, 24; Mark 2:21; Acts 9:39). Someone may also be renting (Matthew 26:65; 27:51).

11. There is a time to speak, and a time for silence. Jesus spent 3½ years teaching, but then there was time for silence (Matthew 27:13-14). Why? The answer is partially found in John 12:27; It was time for His death. Also, the Jewish leaders’ hard hearts were not going to change (Matthew 12:14; Mark 11:18). Some speak when they should listen and say nothing when the should speak. A wise man will seek to reason with the reasonable, but not waste his breath on the unreasonable (Proverbs 9:8; 15:12; Matt. 7:6).

12. There are on this earth times of love and peace between people; But there are also times of war and hatred. God’s people are to strive to be peaceable people (Matthew 5:9; Romans 12:18; Hebrews 12:14). But there are also troublemakers and warmongers in this world. [Note: Waddy listed 14 things. My list has only 12, because I combined 2 in my point 5; and I combined 2 in my point 12].

Time for Every Purpose

“Time: It is the stuff life is made of” (Ben Franklin). “Since thou are not sure of a minute, throw not away an hour” (Ben Franklin). “Our greatest danger in life is permitting the urgent things to crowd out the important” (Charles E. Hummel). “God has blessed us with time. This is why it is called the present” (Unknown). There are 7 days in a week, or 168 hours, or 10,080 minutes. Each day there are 24 hours or 1,440 minutes.

We can accomplish various purposes “under heaven”. How are we using our time? What are the things we purpose to do on this earth? Are we remembering what is eternally important? Read: Psalm 90:12; Ephesians 5:16; Colossians 4:5.

Lessons Learned

1. There is nothing permanent “under the sun”. Read carefully and with meditation: Matthew 6:19-20, “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through and steal.”

2. While man finds time for his “purpose (desire – B.H.) under the sun,” remember that God also has time for His. Look at Ecclesiastes 3:16-17, “Moreover, I saw under the sun: In the place of judgment, wickedness was there; and in the place of righteousness, iniquity was there. I said in my heart ‘God shall judge the righteous and the wicked, for there is a time for every purpose’” (NKJV). See the connection: Man finds time for what he desires; But remember God will also find time to judge (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14).

3. While the things man plants, builds, makes and creates are not enduring, the things of God are. Look at Ecclesiastes 3:14, “I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be forever… Man should fear before Him.” Eternity is coming. “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every good work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14).

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The Whole of Man

Posted on December 31, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

“We go to bed late, we get up early, we go to work, we drive home, eat and go to bed, to get up early, to go to work, to come home ad nausea. And as if that were not enough, we are plagued with making ends meet financially, fighting off the latest virus, hoping to avoid some dreaded disease, mistreated at work, abused at home, and then we die. Every aspect of life seems vain like striving after the wind” (Stephen M. Lloyd, Coping: A Biblical Approach, p. 8).

How is your life? Is it satisfying and fulfilling?

Solomon hungered and thirsted for satisfaction, meaning, and fulfillment in life. His quest was thorough, as thorough as any man’s.

1. He looked to wisdom and knowledge (1 Kings 4:29-31; Ecclesiastes 1:16-18). He concluded that wisdom, knowledge or academic success wasn’t the answer. Ecclesiastes 1:18, “In much wisdom is much grief: And he that increaseth knowledge increases sorrow.” One man wrote, “This is true because the more one learns, the more aware he becomes of the myriads of ‘crooked’ problems that deny fixing. Also, he is doubly frustrated to learn that the coveted prize of knowledge fails to satisfy his soul’s deepest needs, which are spiritual (John Waddey, Ecclesiastes and Song of Solomon p. 14). Often the more one learns, the more he is keenly aware of how much he does not know, and such is frustration. Some wear themselves out in studying. “Much study is a weariness of the flesh” (Ecclesiastes 12:12), and never find true fulfillment and satisfaction in life.

2. He looked to science, nature and agriculture (Ecclesiastes 2:4-6, 7; 1 Kings 10:22). He planted vineyards, gardens, orchards [parks, ASV] and trees of all kinds of fruit (Eccl. 2:4-6). He appears to have even gotten into the zoo business (1 Kings 10:22); He described all of this as “vanity and vexation of spirit” (Ecclesiastes 2:11). True lasting fulfillment was not found in these things, as wonderful as they were.

3. He sought it from music, pleasure, strong drink, and mirth (Ecclesiastes 2:1-3, 8; 1 Kings 4:32; 1 Kings 10:12; 2 Chronicles 9:10-12). Enjoyment and recreation is not necessarily evil (1 Timothy 6:17). Strong drink may be sinful, but it may provide pleasure for a season (Hebrews 11:25); It also brings much misery – hang-over the next day, damaged homes, hurtful things said or done” (Read Proverbs 20:1; 23:29-35). Laughter can be good (Proverbs 17:22). However, sooner or later the laughter ceases and the jokes grow stale. Some are empty and hurting inside even when laughing on the outside: “Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful; and the end of that mirth is heaviness (Proverbs 14:13).

4. He accumulated possessions and great wealth (Ecclesiastes 2:4-11; 1 Kings 3:13; 10:14-23; 2 Chronicles 1:15-17;9:20-21, 23-24). He said, “Whatsoever mine eyes desired I kept not from them…” (Ecclesiastes 2:10). Wealth without God doesn’t guarantee happiness (Eccl. 2:11). In an interview with John Stossell, Sherry Gagliardi ( a Lotto winner) said, “People have a misconception about having money. You go out and you go ‘oh, that’s what I want, I’ll buy it.’ Well, a couple of weeks later, it’s like, you know the emptiness comes back.” Stossell went on to report, “One reason more money doesn’t make us happier is because people adapt… it takes new increments – a faster computer, a bigger TV screen, or whatever – to rejuice the joy” (Myths, Lies, and Downright Stupidity, p. 269). Quotations like this could be multiplied by the thousands.

5. He put his energy into colossal building projects (1 Kings 7:1-12; 9:26; 2 Chr. 8:1-11; Ecclesiastes 2:4-7). Solomon’s own house took thirteen years to complete (1 Kings 7:1). The wood was imported from the forest of Lebanon. Its external dimensions add up to 11,250 square feet (1 Kings 7:2). It stood 45 feet high – so who knows how many interior square feet may have been contained. he built a fleet of ships (1 Kings 9:26). He built fortified cities and storage sites (2 Chronicles 8). He built houses for his numerous wives (cf. 2 Chronicles 8:11). He surveyed things and said “Then I looked on all the work that my hands had wrought, and on the labor that I labored to do: and behold all was vanity…” (Eccl. 2:11).

6. He achieved position, power and prominence and fame (1 Kings 4:31, 34; 1 Kings 10; 2 Chronicles 9). He had risen to fame throughout the world. He had surpassed all previous kings of Israel. Many fight and claw their way to the top of the corporate ladder only to be disappointed with the satisfaction they find once they get there; Solomon was like this.

7. He had the company of women. In fact, the Bible says that he had 700 wives and 300 concubines (1 Kings 11:1-3). Solomon knew romance (see The Song of Solomon). It is good to have companionship. It is good to have a good wife (Genesis 2:18; Proverbs 18:22; Proverbs 31). However, marrying the wrong one can bring much misery (Proverbs 19:13; 21:9, 19; 27:15). Alas, many of these women that he married, not only were married contrary to God’s plan ( Exodus 34:15-16; Deuteronomy 7:3-4; 17:17; Joshua 23:12-13 cf  1 Kings 11:1-3) but also were bad influences on Solomon (1 Kings 11:1-13). One should be careful in selecting a wife (or husband).

THE ANSWER

Solomon, after wasting many years finally found his answer, “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man” [Ecclesiastes 12:13 KJV (note duty is in italics, which indicates that it is a word supplied be the translators)]. The NKJV reads, “This is man’s all.” The idea is: This is what makes man whole, complete, fulfilled, satisfied.

Moreover, he urged the young not to waste their years as he did looking for fulfillment in all of the wrong places. He taught, “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth” (Ecclesiastes 12:1). In this Solomon was truly wise.

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He Emptied Himself

Posted on December 26, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:5).

These words closely connect in thought with the previous verse: “Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also the interests of others” (Philippians 2:4). Christ is our pattern when it comes to being concerned for others. The mind-set of the true Christian is different from the masses of humanity who think only of themselves. Christ teaches us to be concerned for others.

“Who, being in the form of God …” (Philippians 2:6a).

Certain translations seem to leave the wrong impression. The New American Standard Bible reads, “Who, although he existed in the form of God …” The English Standard Version, “Who, though he was in the form of God …” Both make these words past tense. However, these words are not past tense but present tense. The King James Version and the New King James Version reads, “Who, being in the form of God …” The American Standard Version reads, “Who, existing in the form of God.”. Wayne Jackson writes, “‘Existing’ is a present tense participle. It denotes that Jesus is ‘in the form of God,’ i.e., He possesses the very nature of deity—prior to his incarnation, during that phase of his existence, and following it. He always was, is, and forever shall be God, i.e., deity in nature” (christiancourier.com). “The phrase ‘being (existing) in the form (morphe …) of God,’ carries with it two facts of the antecedent Godhood of Christ, previous to His incarnation, and the continuance of His Godhood at and after the event of His birth” (Vine’s).

“… did not consider it robbery to be equal with God” (Philippians 2:6b).

Translators have had difficulty with the term rendered “robbery”. The King James Version and the New King James Version render it “robbery”. The American Standard Version, The New American Standard Version, and the English Standard Version render it “a thing to be grasped”.

How is the word defined? Vine’s writes, “It may have two meanings, (a) in the active sense ‘the act of seizing, robbery,’ … (b) in the passive sense, ‘a thing held as a prize.’”

This leads to two reasonable interpretations. Vine’s records, “(1) with the active sense ‘robbery’ or ‘usurpation’ we get the following meaning: ‘Who because he was subsisting in the essential form of God, did not regard it as any usurpation that he was on an equality of glory and majesty with God …’ (2) The passive sense gives a different meaning to the passage: ‘Who though he was subsisting in the essential form of God, yet did not regard his being on equality of glory and majesty with God as a prize and a treasure to be held fast …” Wayne Jackson expresses these same thoughts saying, “It may mean that Christ at no time ever entertained the notion of seizing equal status from the Father, for that nature was already his. Or, it may suggest that the Lord’s equality with the Father was something that he chose not to selfishly ‘grasp,’ i.e., hold on to at all costs” (christiancourier.com).

The Jehovah Witnesses render this in their New World Translation, “who, although he was exiting in God’s form, gave no consideration to a seizure, namely, that he should be equal with God.” They interpret this verse to mean that Jesus was in the same form (external appearance – according to them) as God, but that he never thought of seizing equality with God. The problems with this view are: (a) Whatever “form” means in Philippians 2:6, it must also mean in Philippians 2:7. If Philippians 2:6 means that Christ had the external appearance of God, but not the essence or nature of God, then wouldn’t Philippians 2:7 teach that Christ had the external appearance of man, but that he never really was in essence man? (b) The tenses indicate that Christ continued to exist in the form of God. However, He certainly did not continue to have the external appearance of God, while on earth. (c) The New World translation has improperly rendered a present infinitive “should be”. (d) John 1:1 reads: In the beginning was the word, and the word was with God, and the word was God.” Ray Summers indicates, “When the article is used with a construction (as is the case with the first ‘God’ B.H.), the thing emphasized is ‘identity’. When the article is not used (as is the case with the second ‘God’ B.H.), the thing emphasized is quality of character” (Essentials of New Testament Greek). Jesus was not just in external appearance God. He was such in quality of character, that is, in essence. Note: The word ‘was’ in John 1:1 is ‘an imperfect tense from which asserts the continuous timeless existence’ (Wayne Jackson, Notes from the Margin of My Bible, vol. 2, p. 34.)

“But made himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of man. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross” (Philippians 2:7-8).

He “made himself of no reputation” (KJV, NKJV). He “emptied himself” (ASV, NASB). The original word is defined to mean “to empty, to make empty, … to make void i.e. deprive of force … to make void i.e. cause a thing to be seen as empty” (Thayer).

What was it that was given up in his incarnation? (1) He certainly emptied himself of heavenly glory (John 17:1-5). He was born in a stable. His first crib was a manger, a feeding trough for animals (Luke 2:7). Physically, there was no special beauty in his appearance (Isaiah 53:2). (2) He emptied himself of his divine power. (a) He had physical needs and limitations (see: Matthew 4:2; Mark 4:38; John 4:6-7; Luke 23:26; John 19:28). He suspended omnipotence. The miracles were done not by his might, but through the Holy Spirit (see: Matthew 12:28; Acts 10:38 cf. Luke 3:21-22). This is the same way the apostles and others were able to work miracles. (b) He had mental limitations (see: Mark 13:32). He suspended omniscience. The flawless message which he presented, came by inspiration of the Holy Spirit (Luke 4:18-19; Matthew 12:26-28; Acts 10:38; Acts 1:1-2). This is the same source from which the apostles and prophets received their message. (c) He was limited in space and time (Mark 1:36-38; John 11:6, 15, 21, 32). He suspended omnipresence.

“He humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross” (Philippians 2:8). He did this for mankind! Listen to 1 John 3:16: “By this we know love, because he laid down his life for us. And we ought also to lay down our lives for the brethren.”  It is in this sense, Paul instructs, “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:5).

Summary of what Christ did for us:

A. Being in the form of God.

       1. Emptied himself.

       2. Took upon form of a servant.

        3. Came in likeness of man.

 B. Being found in the appearance of a man.

        1. Humbled himself.

        2. Became obedient to death.

        3. Even death of the cross.

“Therefore God also has highly exalted him …” (Philippians2:9).

In spite of Jesus’ humble life, and even death on the cross, he is now highly exalted. God exalted him because of his humble service.

Now meditate on these words: “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he will lift you up” (James 4:10). “Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time” (1 Peter 5:6).

Posted in Example, Humility, Jehovah Witnesses, Jesus, Textual study, Word Study | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

The Seven Churches of Asia (Liberal, Worldly Churches)

Posted on December 24, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

The letter, to each of the seven churches, begin, “To the angel of the church in __________” (Revelation 2:1; 2:8; 2:12; 2:18; 3:1; 3:7; 3:14).  The word “angel” means “messenger”.  The word is commonly used of heavenly messengers (Daniel 4:13, etc.).  It is also used of human messengers (2 Chronicles 36:15; Malachi 2:7; 3:1; Luke 7:24, etc.).  It may refer to the preacher.  It may refer to the eldership, collectively.  The language, possibly, is from the Jewish synagogues.  The chief speaker was called the angel (James Tolle, The Seven Churches of Asia, p. 23).

The message was to be read in the congregation.  “Blessed is he (singular, B.H.) who reads and those (plural, B.H.) who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it…” (Revelaion 1:3).  The individual member is urged to pay attention.  “He (singular) who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches… (Revelaion 2:7; 2:11; 2:17; 2:29; 3:6; 3:13; 3:22).

As you read of these seven churches, which can be divided into three basic groups, think upon this church.  Which church is most like us?  Which group do we belong in: (1) The faithful; (2) The loveless, lifeless, and lukewarm; (3) The liberal, and worldly?

Pergamos (Revelation 2:12-17)

Also called Pergamum,  modern name: Bergama

About the city: The city was founded by Greek colonists some time before 300 B.C.  It was located about 60 miles northeast of Smyrna, and about 15 miles east of the Aegean Sea.  The city was built on terraces leading up the only accessible slope of the acropolis which rose 900 feet in height.  A small river, the Selinus, flowed through the city. A second river, the Cetius, flowed around the city walls.  In John’s day, the city was about 120,000 in population.  The city was the birthplace of Galen, the “father of anatomy” (though, he was not born until c. 130 A.D.).  A medical school existed in this city. This city was important in literary history.  Alexandria, Egypt had the largest and best-known library in the Greco-Roman world (About 900,000 books/scrolls).  Pergamos came to have the second largest library (about 200,000 books/scrolls).  Egypt became jealous when Pergamos started building up her library.  Ptolemy of Egypt prohibited the export of papyrus to Pergamos (Papyrus was made from the papyrus plant.  It grew and was produced in Egypt.  It was the common material to write on at the time.  Our word “paper” comes from “papyrus”).  Thus, Pergamos developed parchment as an alternative [The original word literally means “paper of Pergamos.”  Parchment is prepared animal skin used as paper.  Parchment usually refers to sheep and goat skin (Vellum to calf and antelope skin)].  The city became the parchment-making city of the Greco-Roman world.  Note: Marc Antony (of Rome) gave much of the library to Cleopatra (of Egypt) in the 30’s B.C.

Religiously: The city had temples to Zeus (chief Greek god), Dionysus (the god of wine), Athena (the goddess of wisdom), and Aeskelpios (the god of healing).  It’s temple to Zeus was reckoned one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.  It’s temple to Aeskelpios contained pools with supposed healing power, and physicians who claimed to receive diagnosis by dreams and visions.  This god’s image was of him holding a serpent wrapped around a pole (an image which is still visible in the medical community).  Emperor worship was practiced.  Temples were built to Augustus, and later Trajan, and Severus.  A large Jewish community existed.

The message: (1) Jesus held a sharp two-edged sword (Revelation 2:12, 16 cf. 1:16; 19:1).  He could look into them as if they had been flayed (Hebrews 4:12-13).  He could also do battle (Revelation 2:12 cf. 2:16; 19:1).  (2) He knew their works (Revelation 2:13).  (3) He knew where they dwelt (Revelation 2:13).  He knew that they were surrounded by evil.  (4) He knew that they were holding fast to His name or His faith (Revelation 2:13).  They had not turned away, and denied Him even in difficult times. One brother, Antipas, had already suffered death due to his faithful witness.  (5) Good characteristics do not negate bad characteristics (Revelation 2:14 cf. 2:10; 2:4).  (6) Some held to the doctrine of Balaam [(Revelation 2:14 cf. Numbers 25:1-3).  Josephus indicates that Balaam crafted Israel`s temptation for Balak, in order to get God to destroy Israel, since he could not curse them (cf. Num 22-23). See Josephus Antiq. IV.102-ff)].  They had some practicing fornication and eating things sacrificed to idols.  (7) Some held to the doctrine of the Nicolatians (Revelation 2:14 cf. 2:6).  A doctrine which Jesus hated.  Clement of Alexandria said that they abandoned themselves to pleasure like goats in a life of shameless indulgence (The Miscellaines 2:20).   The point is they had tolerated sin within the church.  (8) They needed to repent or Jesus would be against them (Revelation 2:16 cf. 2:5; 3:3; 3:11).  (9) If they overcame, they would be given hidden manna to eat (Revelation 2:17).  “Hidden”, perhaps, refers to the fact that manna was placed in the side of the ark (Hebrews 9:4 cf. Ex. 16:33-34).  Jesus is the true “bread of life” (John 6). This likely means that they would receive Him.  (b) They would receive a white stone.  White stones were given for acquittal in court (Black stones for guilty vote cf. Acts 26:10 lit cast pebbles).  White stones were given to freed slaves.  White stones were given to winners of races.  Stones were often used as tickets to events.  A name would be on this stone (Revelation 2:17 cf. 3:12).  They would be provided a stone with God’s name on it, and the New Jerusalem.

Thyatira Revelation 2:18-29

Modern name: Ackisar

About the city: The city was inhabited before 300 B.C.  It was never a large city (today: 50,000 population).  The city was located 35 miles southeast of Pergamos, and 35 miles northwest of Sardis.  The city was surrounded by streams and wetlands (from which leeches were later gathered for medical use in Eastern Europe).  The area was covered in hardwood trees.  The dye industry was a major business in this town.  They especially were known for their purple (aka Turkish red) dye (cf. Lydia was a seller of purple from this very town, Acts 16:14).  Purple was the color of the rich and powerful (Jude 8:26; Daniel 5:7 ASV; Esther 8:15; Mark 15:17-18; Luke 16:19).  The most prized purple dye was extremely expensive.  It came from a small gland in the neck of a marine mollusk.  It took 8,000 mollusks to produce one gram of this dye.  A less-expensive purple came from an extract of the madder root (This was the dye of Thyatira).

Religiously:  Apollo (the sun-god) was worshipped, along with the typical list of pagan gods.  Trade guilds, or unions, were organized for the different crafts (dye makers, garment makers, tanners, potters, bakers, bronze workers, etc.).  These trade guilds were powerful.  They were also associated with pagan deities and pagan worship.  A sizeable Jewish population was located here.

The message: (1) Jesus is the Son of God (Revelation 2:18).  (2) He has eyes like a flame of fire (Revelation 2:18; cf. 1:14; 19:12; Daniel 10:6).  The reference may be to His awesomeness, or to the penetrating nature of His eyes (cf. 2:23).  (3) His feet are like fine brass (Revelation 2:18 cf. 1:15; Ezekiel 1:7; Daniel 10:6).  This may refer to His crushing ability, if He was to tread upon them.  (4) I know your works (Revelation 2:19).  Their love, service, faith, and patience had grown over time (Revelation 2:19).  They were going the opposite direction of Ephesus (cf. 2:4).  Notice that their love and faith are connected with work (cf. 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3, 8-10; James 2:17, 20, 26; 1 John 3:18). (5) Their good deeds didn’t negate their sin issues (Revelation 2:20 cf. 2:4; 2:14).  (6) They had tolerated sin, and false doctrine (Revelation 2:20-ff).  He mentioned “Jezebel”.  Ahab’s wife Jezebel influenced many to worship Baal and commit other sins (1 Kings 16:29-34; cf. 21:25; 19:1-4; 21:1-26).  They had a similar woman among them.  Many think that it is likely, that she had compromised with the trade guilds, and had urged others to do so.  She had committed fornication (spiritual, and perhaps literal).  She had taught members that it was okay to behave, and to eat things sacrificed to idols.  She claimed to be a prophetess.  (7) Not all had been corrupted by her (Revelation 2:24).  (8) Judgment was coming.  Jezebel was about to be cast into the sick-bed (Revelation 2:22).  Great tribulation was coming, if she and her followers did not repent (Revelation 2:22).  Death was coming to her spiritual offspring (Revelation 2:23).  (9) Those who overcame and kept His word, faithfully, unto the end would: (a) be given power over the nations (1 Corinthians 6:2 cf. Revelation 2:26-27; 22:5).  (b) be given the morning star (Revelation 2:28), that is – they would be given Jesus, Himself (cf. Revelation 22:16).

This concludes this series.  So, how are we doing? Which group is it in which we would be listed?

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The Seven Churches of Asia (Loveless, Lifeless, Lukewarm Churches)

Posted on December 22, 2012 by Bryan Hodge

Why seven churches?   Why these seven churches?  Foy Wallace, Jr. argued that there were only seven churches in Asia at this time.  True, the New Testament mentions others: Colossae (Colossians 1:2) and Hieropolis (Colossians 4:13).  However, Wallace points out: (1) A great earthquake in early 60`s A.D. destroyed these two cities and they were never rebuilt.  (2) The residents of these two cities resettled in nearby Laodicea (Foy Wallace, Jr., The Book of Revelation, pp. 35-36).

This argument may be correct, but it leaves a question unanswered.  What about Troas?  (1) Paul visited Troas on his second missionary journey (Acts 16:8, 11).  There is no evidence here of the church’s existence.  (2) He preached there on his third missionary journey (2 Corinthians 2:12-13).  He had an open door (2 Corinthians 2:12).  He left “them” and departed into Macedonia (2 Corinthians 2:13). This seems to suggest a church.  (3) He tarried seven days at Troas, and there the disciples assembled and partook of the Lord’s Supper (Acts 20:5-12).  This seems to suggest a church at Troas.  Though, it is possible that these are brethren from other places.  (4) Paul left his cloak with a man named Carpus in Troas (2 Timothy 4:13).  This happened sometime before his final arrest.  Paul visited the place at least four times.  He knew a man there by name.  It seems likely that the church existed at Troas.

It may be that there were more than seven churches in Asia.  If so, why specifically address these seven?  “These were seven historical churches occupying prominent places in Asia Minor.  It should be noted that while they are literal churches, the number seven is to be understood in a symbolic manner.  These congregations represent the church as a whole” (John Kackelman, Jr., Studies in the Book of Revelation, p. 19).  “They represent or typify the Lord’s church as a whole, their problems and conditions being representative of all the churches of Christ” (James Tolle, The Seven Churches of Asia, p. 19).

Let us continue our study: Today, Group Two: The loveless, lifeless, and lukewarm churches.  Would we be in this list?

Ephesus (Revelation 2:1-7)

Modern name: Selcuk

About the city: The name “Ephesus” means “desirable”.  It was founded in about 1100 B.C.  In Grecian times, it had been one of the three greatest seaports of the eastern Mediterranean Sea (The other two being Antioch, Syria and Alexandria, Egypt).  Silt which was carried by the river Cayster into the Gulf of Ephesus had diminished the importance of this city as a seaport.  The port was still operational in the 50’s A.D. (Acts 18:21; 20:16).  Even then silt was becoming a problem (Miletus had similar problems.  Smyrna became the key seaport of the area).  There was an effort to dredge the harbor in 65 A.D. This effort was abandoned due to cost (today, the city is separated from the gulf by over 16 miles).  Still, Ephesus remained the chief city of the province of Asia, and even all of Asia Minor.  Its first century population was between 250,000 and 330,000.   It was the capital of the Roman province of Asia.  It was a free city, allowed to govern its own affairs.  A great deal of banking was done in this city.  Silver crafting was big business (Acts 19:24-ff).  This city was wealthy.  A large middle class existed.  Homes commonly had running water, tiled flooring and marbled walls.  The city had a theater which seated about 25,000 (cf. Acts 19:21-41).  It had a marble road which led from the harbor to the theater, and to the “Temple of Diana” (Artemis), one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.

Religiously: “The Temple of Diana” dominated the city.  Its dimensions were 425 ft. long x 240 ft. wide x 60 ft. high.  The platform stood at the top of a flight of 10 steps.  The temple was supported by 127 marble columns, each weighing 150 tons, having a diameter greater than 6 feet and standing 60 feet tall.  The temple was important to the local economy.  Each spring a festival was held in honor of Diana.  Athletic contests occurred.  Religious pilgrims from all over the Roman Empire came to this city (cf. Acts 19:27).  The city profited by housing and feeding these pilgrims.  Merchants sold miniature bronze and silver replicas of Diana (cf. Acts 19:24-ff).  Prostitution seems to have been associated with the worship of Diana.  Diana was the supposed goddess of fertility.  Her image was of a multi-breasted woman.  Her image located in the center of the temple was supposedly an image which fell out of heaven [(cf. Acts 19:35) some suggest the image was fashioned from a meteorite.  An image at Tarsus was so fashioned of Diana].  There were other temples there for other pagan gods, and emperors.  Moreover, there was a Jewish synagogue (cf. Acts 19:8; also mentioned by Joseph in Antiquities XIV, 10, 23).  The Jews, apparently, wanted all to know that they did not oppose Diana (cf. Acts 19:32-ff).

The church: This church had wonderful opportunities: (1) Paul made a brief stop in the city on his second missionary journey (Acts 18:18-21) (2) He visited, again, on his third missionary journey (Acts 19:1-20:1).  He stayed for over two years (Acts 19:8-10, cf. 19:13 “then”, cf. 20:31).  (3) He had a meeting in Miletus with the elders of Ephesus (Acts 20:17-38).  (4) Timothy worked with this church for a period of time (1 Tim. 1:3).  (5) An epistle was written to them (Ephesians 1:1).  (6) An open letter was addressed to them (Revelation 2:1-7).  (6) They had the company of good brethren: (a) Aquila and Priscilla (Acts 18:24-28; 1 Corinthians 16:19); (b) Apollos (Acts 18:24-28); (c) Tradition says that John lived in Ephesus, and worshipped with the brethren there the last years of his life, urging them “little children, love one another.”

The message: (1) Jesus was not distant.  He was among them (Revelation 2:2 cf. 1:20).  He knew their works (Revelation 2:2).  This was pointed out to all seven churches (Rev. 2:2; 2:9; 2:13; 2:19; 3:1; 3:8; 3:15).  (2) They had done, and were doing many good things: (a) They were laborers.  Jesus said, “I know… your labor… you… have labored for My name’s sake” (Revelation 2:2, 3).  The word “labor” (NKJV) or “toil” (ESV) is more intense than the term “work”.  The word has to do with painstakingly, difficult work; work done at great effort; “Arduous, sweat-producing labor: (Coffman, Commentary on Revelation, p. 43).  (b) They were patient.  Jesus said, “I know… your patience… you have persevered and have patience” (Revelation 2:2, 3).   The ESV renders this “patient endurance.”  They did not run hot and cold.  They were not hit and miss.  Christianity for them was a consistent way of life.  They had not “become weary” (Revelation 2:3).  (c) They were serious about doctrine.  They were not gullible, but tested those who claimed to be apostles (Revelation 2:2 cf. 2 Corinthians 11:13; 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22; Acts 17:11; 1 John 4:1).  They, like the Lord, hated “the deeds of the Nicolaitans” (Revelation 2:6 cf. 2:15).  Ray Summers, “From the relationship to those who held the doctrine of Balaam (2:14-15), their evil appears to have been the promotion of some form of antinomianism” (Worthy is the Lamb, p. 110).  The Nicolaitans seems to have been Gnostic (Zondervan’s Pictorial Dictionary).  (d) They were not tolerant of evil.  Jesus said, “You cannot bear those who are evil” (Rev. 2:2).  (3) They also had a problem.  Jesus said, “Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love” (Revelation 2:4).  Does this refer to the love which they first had for Christ?  (Note: The word “first” in the original has to do with time, not comparative degree).  Were they ritualistically doing things correctly, but without the genuine love that they should’ve had?  Service without love does not impress Him (Matthew 15:8; 22:36-37).  Does this refer to their love one for another, which they once had?  Service without such love profits nothing (1 Corinthians 13:1-ff).  (4) If they didn’t repent, they would cease to be His church (Revelation 2:5 cf. 1:20).  (5) If they overcame, they’d have access to the tree of Life (Genesis 2:9; 3:22-24; Revelation 2:7 cf. 22:2; 22:14).

Sardis (Revelation 3:1-6)

Modern name: Sart near Salihi.

About the city: The city was very ancient.  It had served as the capital of the ancient kingdom of Lydia.  It’s referred to by the name “Hyde” (an ancient name of the city) in the Iliad.  The city was located about 45 miles inland, to the east of Smyrna, and 30 miles southeast of Thyatira.  The name Sardis is plural.  There was an upper city, and a lower city.  Upper Sardis was renowned for its natural defensive position.  The upper city, sat on a spur which came out of the northern slope of Mount Tmolus.  It was flanked on three sides by high cliff walls (which rose 1,500 feet above the valley).  The River Pactolus flowed near the base of the cliff walls like a moat.  Triple walls protected the side without natural defense.  Lower Sardis was positioned in the valley below.  The city’s wealth originally came from gold.  This gold came from the River Pactolus.  Its sands were said to be golden.  Such was ancient history by John’s day.  Historians believe that it was in this city the first modern coins were minted [Monetary exchange had existed for a long time before (Genesis 33:19; Exodus 38:26; Joshua 24:32; Job 42:11)].

They manufactured electrum (a metal alloy of gold, silver, and trace amounts of copper and other metals).  They also produced a purple dye.  In 17 A.D., the city was destroyed by an earthquake.  Tiberius remitted their taxes, and helped rebuild.  The city never returned to its former importance.  Nothing but a small village remains.

Religiously: They took part in the usual pagan worship.  The worshipped Cybele, Artemus, and Zeus.  The temple of Artemis was 300 feet x 160 feet.  It stood on 78 columns each 58 feet high.  The largest synagogue ever excavated was found there [Josephus mentions a large Jewish community (Antiq. XIV. 259-261; XVI. 171)].  The synagogue measured 197 feet x 59 feet with a porch extended 131 feet.  Emperor worship was practiced.  Local hot springs were valued for their therapeutic properties.  This prompted the worship of Hades and Persephoneia, the god and goddess of the underworld.

The message: (1) Jesus knew their works (Revelation 3:1).  (2) They had a name that they were alive, but they were dead (Revelation 3:1).  What does this mean?  Evidently, they had a great reputation.  Perhaps, they had, in times past, done many good works.  Were they relying on past accomplishments?  Perhaps, they had a nice meeting place, and good numbers that brought much respect in the brotherhood.  However, Jesus’ diagnosis was that they were dead, or nearly so (Revelation 3:1-2).  (3) They were admonished to “watch” (Revelation 3:2).  This, they should have understood from their city’s history.  The location of the city led to over-confidence, and a lack of alertness.  Twice in history, the cliff walls had been scaled at night, and the city had been taken.  Cyrus (of Persia) captured the city in 546 B.C.  Antiochus III (of Syria) captured the city in 214 B.C.  They needed to strengthen that which was about to die (Revelation 3:2).  Their works were not perfect, or complete (Revelation 3:2).  Perhaps, they had started many good projects, but they had not followed through to complete the task.  Their works were hit and miss.    (5) They needed to remember back to when they obeyed the Gospel (Revelation 3:3 cf. 2:5).  It is good for all to remember the reason they obeyed, and the joy of their salvation.  They needed to “hold fast” to what they had and “repent” of their current situation.  (6) If they did not repent, he would come upon them unexpectedly in judgment (Revelation 3:3).  (7) If they did what they should: (a) White garments awaited (Revelation 3:5 cf. 4:4; 7:9; 13-14); (b) Their name would be in the book of life (Revelation 3:5 cf. 13:8; 17:8; 20:12, 15; 21:27; Philippians 4:3).  Ancient cities kept a list of the names of the citizens.  Death, relocation, and banishment would remove one’s name.  A Christian’s name is written in heaven (cf. Luke 10:20).  We need to make sure that it is not removed from His Book of Life.  (c) Jesus would confess their name before the Father and angels (cf. Matthew 10:32). (8) There were still some among them who were undefiled (Revelaion 3:4 cf. 2:24-25).

 Laodicea (Rev. 3:14-22)

Modern name: Denizli

About the city: The city was founded in the mid-third century B.C. by Antiochus II (of Syria).  It was built as a military base.  It was named after Antiochus’ wife Laodike (who as a side note later poisoned him).  The Syrians populated this city with Syrians and with Jews from Babylon.  The city was located about 40 miles east of Ephesus, 40 miles southeast of Philadelphia,  11 miles west of Colossae, and 6 miles south of Hieropolis.  The city sat in the Lycus river valley with mountains to the north, and mountains to the south.  The city was extremely wealthy.  It was renowned for three things.  First, it was a great financial and banking center.  Second, there was a medical center located there which was especially known for its optical treatments.  A medical school existed there.  Drugs were manufactured there, and especially eye salve (called collyrium or Phrygian eye salve).  Aristotle mentions this salve.  Third, it was known for its high-grade black wool, and the production of garments.  An earthquake devastated the city in the early 60’s A.D.  Rome offered to help rebuild.  The city refused.  They were wealthy, and believed that they needed no help.  They rebuilt with their own resources.  The city’s water supply came from the hot springs of nearby Hieropolis.  It was lukewarm on arrival.

Religiously:  There was a temple to Zeus.  The worshipped Asklepios, the god of healing, and Men Karov, the god of the valley.  Emperor worship occurred here.  A large Jewish presence suggest that a synagogue existed.  The church is mentioned a few times by Paul [(Colossians 2:1; Colossians 4:13, 15, 16).  Note: on the epistle from Laodicea see article: “Missing Books of the New Testament” by Bryan Hodge].

The message: (1) Jesus declared Himself the “Amen, the Faithful and True witness” (Revelation 3:15).  The term “Amen” has to do with trustworthiness, reliability.  His witness is not incorrect.  (2) Jesus declared that He’s “the beginning of the creation of God” (Revelation 3:15).  The meaning is that He is the source of God’s creation (cf. John 1:1-3, 10; Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 1:1-2, 10).  He’s their maker.  (3) Jesus affirmed his knowledge of their works (Revelation 3:15).  (4) They were neither cold nor hot, but a disgusting lukewarm (Revelation 3:15-16).  Such made Him ready to vomit.  Hot water is useful. Cold water is useful.  Lukewarm water is not so beneficial.  He wished they were either hot or cold. Perhaps, nothing harms the cause more than “half way Christians”.  Get on fire, or don’t even pretend to be a Christian.  (5) They were self-deceived (Revelation 3:17-18).  They thought they were something spiritually.  In truth, they were, “wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked.”  Some believe the reference is not to their spiritual deception, so much, as to their trust in material things (cf. 1 Timothy 6:17).  Make no mistake about it, materialism harms the church (cf. Luke 8:14).  (6) The source for all that they truly needed was Christ (Revelation 3:18).  All their needs could be supplied by Him.  They could purchase such from Him by his grace (cf. Isaiah 55:1-4).  (7) His correction was due to His love for them (Revelation 3:19).  He wanted them to be zealous.  He wanted them to repent.  (8) He had given them free will (Revelation 3:20).  He knocked for them, He called out for them, but He did not force Himself on them.  (9) If they would respond: (a) He’d fellowship with them (Revelation 3:19); (b) He’d allow them to sit one day, with Him, on His throne (Revelation 3:21; 22:1 cf. John 17:24; 2 Tim. 2:10-12).

 Notice – Two messages appear to all seven churches: (1) Jesus said, “I know…” (Revelation 2:2; 2:9; 2:13; 2:19; 3:1; 3:8; 3:15). He knew their trials. He knew their conduct. He knows us, as well. (2) He urged them to “overcome” (Revelation 2:7; 2:11; 2:17; 2:26; 3:5; 3:12; 3:21). The scriptures urge us to “overcome the wicked one” (1 John 2:13-14), and “overcome the world” (John 16:33 cf. 1 John 5:4-5). The keys to victory are: (a) Faith (1 John 5:4-5); (b) the blood of the lamb (Rev. 12:11); (c) courage, “the word of their testimony” (Revelation 12:11); (d) self-sacrifice, “they did not love their lives to the death (Revelation 12:11).

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