Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:1-2
No Live Stream This Coming Sunday
Dear Church Family,
Just a quick note to everyone that while we will be gathering for our in-person services this Sunday as normal, we will not be live streaming the service, as Margarette and I will be out of town attending Matthew’s wedding.
Deacon Jones will be presiding over the service and Paul Rideout will be our guest speaker for the day. Hope that you can make it to the in-person service this Sunday!
Blessings,
Pastor
Sermon Notes: Identity and Purpose
Identity
- How God sees us (what matters most)
- How we see ourselves (self awareness)
- How others see us (community)
Purpose
- Life Roles (Who we are) (Husband / Wife / Child / ?)
- Vocations (What we do) (Work / Student)
- Contribution (What we leave) (Serving others / what we leave behind /our Legacy)
2 Corinthians 4:18 NIV So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
Identity and purpose are often deeply interconnected:
Identity Influences Purpose: Who you are often determines what you find important and what you decide to do with your life. For example, someone who identifies strongly with creativity may find purpose in artistic expression or innovation.
Purpose Shapes Identity: Conversely, the roles and objectives people take on can shape their identity. For instance, dedicating oneself to teaching can strengthen one’s identity as an educator and lifelong learner.
Purpose and Context of the Letter
Paul wrote the letter to the Ephesians to address several key themes and concerns for the early Christian community in Ephesus. This community was a mix of Jewish and Gentile believers, and one of Paul’s primary goals was to foster unity among them, emphasizing that both groups were equal in Christ.
Unity in Christ: Ephesians is well-known for its emphasis on unity. Paul wanted to stress that both Jews and Gentiles were reconciled to God through the death of Christ and are part of the same spiritual family. This is evident in Ephesians 2:14-16, where Paul discusses how Christ has broken down the dividing wall of hostility between Jews and Gentiles.
Identity in Christ: Paul was concerned with helping believers understand their new identity in Christ. This includes themes of being chosen by God, redeemed, and sealed with the Holy Spirit. He elaborated on how this new identity should shape their behavior and relationships within the community.
Living as Christians: Another key aspect of Ephesians is the practical guidance on Christian living. Paul instructed the Ephesians on how to live out their faith in their daily lives, emphasizing moral purity, domestic harmony, and mutual submission among believers, as well as spiritual warfare.
Ephesians 2:10 Direct Context
In Ephesians 2:10, Paul is reinforcing:
- The message that salvation is a gift from God, not a result of human effort
- Ephesians 2:8-9, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”).
- By stating that believers are “created in Christ Jesus for good works,” Paul emphasizes that their salvation should result in a life transformed by and dedicated to God, which is a natural response to the grace they have received.
The Passage
Ephesians 2:10 ‘For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. ‘
His Handiwork
The Greek word translated as “handiwork” is “poiēma,” from which we derive the English word “poem.” It suggests something artfully created and designed with purpose and care. In the context of this verse, it implies that believers are the result of God’s creative action and intentional design, much like a work of art.
To be God’s handiwork means to be created and fashioned by God with specific intent, reflecting His glory through one’s existence and actions, and living out a life of purpose that He has individually prepared. This concept is a cornerstone of Christian identity and purpose, grounding believers in the knowledge of their divine origin and destiny.
Created in Christ
2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” This verse reinforces the idea that in Christ, believers undergo a profound transformation.
Galatians 2:20: “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” This expresses the notion of dying to one’s old self and living a new life through faith in Jesus.
To Do Good Works
James 2:17-18 – “In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. But someone will say, ‘You have faith; I have deeds.’
Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds.” James emphasizes that faith should manifest in actions, reinforcing the Ephesians passage about living out faith through good works.
Prepared in Advance To Do
Jeremiah 1:5 – “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.
Psalms 139:16 NIV Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
Therefore
Hebrews 12:1 NIV Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,
1 Corinthians 9:24 NIV Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.
Philippians 3:14 NIV I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Note: Paul’s primary emphasis in Ephesians 2:10 is on the transformative power of God’s work in believers through Christ. His concern is that believers recognize:
We Must Remember That It Is:
God’s Initiative: Salvation and the ensuing good works are initiated by God, not by human merit or effort.
Purposeful Creation: Believers are created anew in Christ specifically to engage in good works, underscoring the idea that Christian faith is inherently active and practical.
Preordained Path: The good works that believers are to engage in have been prepared by God beforehand, suggesting that each believer has a God-given path to follow, which aligns with His will and purposes.
Through these teachings, Paul wanted to ensure that the Ephesians understood their faith as a dynamic and living response to God’s grace, aimed at uniting them in purpose and action under the lordship of Christ.
Key Takeaways
Identity in Christ: Believers are uniquely crafted by God, which affirms their worth and the intentionality behind their creation.
Purposeful Living: Being created for good works implies that Christian life is not passive but actively engaged in practices that reflect God’s goodness and love.
Divine Planning: The idea that these works are prepared in advance shows that God is intimately involved in the life of each believer, guiding and equipping them for the tasks He has set out.
Mem – Psalm 119:97-104
“Mem” (מ) is the thirteenth letter of the Hebrew alphabet and serves as the heading for the thirteenth section of Psalm 119 (verses 97-104). Each verse in this section begins with “Mem” in the original Hebrew, continuing the acrostic structure of the psalm.
The symbolic meaning of “Mem” can be understood through several facets:
Literal Meaning and Symbolism: “Mem” represents “water” in Hebrew, symbolizing fluidity, life, cleansing, and power. In the context of Psalm 119, “Mem” could signify the life-giving and purifying qualities of God’s Word, much like water sustains and cleanses life.
Source of Life: Just as water is essential for physical life, God’s Word is crucial for spiritual life. “Mem” in this section might represent the idea that the Scriptures are a vital source of nourishment and growth for the believer, essential for spiritual sustenance and flourishing.
Cleansing and Renewal: Water is often symbolic of cleansing and renewal. This symbolism aligns with the psalmist’s expressions about the transformative and renewing power of God’s laws, which cleanse the soul and renew the spirit.
Depth and Mystery: Water can also symbolize depth and the unknown. This aspect of “Mem” can reflect the depth and richness of God’s Word, which can be endlessly explored and always holds deeper truths to uncover.
Flow and Adaptability: The properties of water to flow and adapt to its container might symbolize the adaptability of God’s Word to provide guidance and wisdom in various circumstances of life. It suggests that the Scripture is dynamic and applicable across different situations, providing tailored guidance that fits the contours of each believer’s life.
In summary, “Mem” in Psalm 119 symbolizes the essential, life-giving, cleansing, deep, and adaptable nature of God’s Word. It highlights how the Scriptures are as vital to the spirit as water is to the body, offering nourishment, purification, and profound insight into living a life aligned with divine will.
Psalm 119:97-104: Verse by Verse Analysis
Verse 97:
Text: “Oh, how I love your law! It is my meditation all the day.”
Reflection: The psalmist expresses an intense love for God’s law, indicating that it occupies his thoughts continually throughout the day. This continuous meditation reflects a deep, personal engagement with scripture.
Cross-reference: Joshua 1:8 – “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”
Verse 98:
Text: “Your commands make me wiser than my enemies, for they are ever with me.”
Reflection: God’s commands provide the psalmist with wisdom that surpasses that of his adversaries. This wisdom is not occasional but constant, as the commandments are a perpetual guide.
Cross-reference: James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.”
Verse 99:
Text: “I have more insight than all my teachers, for I meditate on your statutes.”
Reflection: Through diligent meditation on God’s statutes, the psalmist has gained more understanding than his educators, highlighting the value of personal study and reflection on God’s Word over traditional learning alone.
Cross-reference: Job 32:8 – “But it is the spirit in a person, the breath of the Almighty, that gives them understanding.”
Verse 100:
Text: “I have more understanding than the elders, for I obey your precepts.”
Reflection: Adherence to God’s precepts has endowed the psalmist with greater understanding than even the elders, suggesting that spiritual insight is linked to practical obedience.
Cross-reference: 1 John 2:3-6 – “We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands.”
Verse 101:
Text: “I have kept my feet from every evil path so that I might obey your word.”
Reflection: The psalmist has intentionally avoided evil ways to remain faithful to God’s Word, emphasizing the conscious effort required to live righteously.
Cross-reference: Proverbs 1:15 – “My son, do not go along with them, do not set foot on their paths;”
Verse 102:
Text: “I have not departed from your laws, for you yourself have taught me.”
Reflection: Divine teaching has kept the psalmist loyal to God’s laws, reinforcing that his obedience is not just a matter of self-discipline but also divine instruction.
Cross-reference: John 14:26 – “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”
Verse 103:
Text: “How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!”
Reflection: The psalmist finds great delight in God’s words, describing them as sweeter than honey, which speaks to the joy and satisfaction found in scripture.
Cross-reference: Ezekiel 3:3 – “Then he said to me, ‘Son of man, eat this scroll I am giving you and fill your stomach with it.’ So I ate it, and it tasted as sweet as honey in my mouth.”
Verse 104:
Text: “I gain understanding from your precepts; therefore I hate every wrong path.”
Reflection: Understanding gained from God’s precepts leads the psalmist to despise all forms of wickedness, demonstrating how true wisdom influences moral choices.
Cross-reference: Proverbs 8:13 – “To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech.”
Key Takeaways from Psalm 119:97-104:
- Continuous Meditation on Scripture: The psalmist’s constant meditation on God’s law is central to gaining wisdom and insight, underscoring the transformative power of engaging deeply with scripture.
- Wisdom Beyond Human Teaching: By adhering to God’s commands and meditating on His statutes, the psalmist attains wisdom that surpasses even that of his elders and teachers, illustrating that divine wisdom transcends human knowledge.
- Delight in God’s Word: The psalmist experiences profound joy in God’s commands,
Sermon Notes: Overcoming Spiritual Dryness
In 1 Kings 19:5-21, we find Elijah at a pivotal point of personal crisis. After a victorious confrontation against the prophets of Baal, Elijah faces severe discouragement and flees from Queen Jezebel’s threats. This passage offers a profound look at how God meets His prophet in his moment of despair.
The Message
Verses 5-7: “Then he lay down under the bush and fell asleep. All at once an angel touched him and said, ‘Get up and eat.’ He looked around, and there by his head was some bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again. The angel of the LORD came back a second time and touched him and said, ‘Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you.'”
Commentary: God’s provision of food and water for Elijah is reminiscent of His care for the Israelites in the wilderness, providing manna and quail (Exodus 16:35). This demonstrates God’s holistic care, acknowledging the physical basis needed for spiritual and emotional well-being.
Divine Intervention:God first addressed Elijah’s physical needs. While he slept under the broom tree, an angel touched him and provided food and water for him (1 Kings 19:5-7). This act of care shows the importance of attending to physical well-being as part of spiritual health.
Verses 8-9: “So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God. There he went into a cave and spent the night.”
Commentary:Elijah’s journey mirrors the Israelites’ 40 years in the desert (Numbers 14:33) and Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-2), symbolizing a period of purification and preparation for a divine encounter.
Verses 11-13: “The LORD said, ‘Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD, for the LORD is about to pass by.’ Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.”
Commentary: This encounter emphasizes that God’s presence is not confined to dramatic displays. It parallels Moses’ experience on the same mountain, where God also used natural phenomena to reveal Himself (Exodus 19:18-20), but here emphasizes the still small voice, highlighting a personal and gentle communication.
God’s Gentle Presence: After his initial rest and nourishment, Elijah traveled to Mount Horeb and took shelter in a cave. Here, God revealed Himself not in dramatic displays as on Mount Carmel, but in a “gentle whisper” (1 Kings 19:12). This encounter reminds Elijah (and readers) that God is not only found in extraordinary events but also in quiet, subtle ways.
Verses 15-18: “The LORD said to him, ‘Go back the way you came, and go to the Desert of Damascus. When you get there, anoint Hazael king over Aram. Also, anoint Jehu son of Nimshi king over Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah to succeed you as prophet.”
Commentary: God’s instructions for Elijah to anoint new leaders and a prophetic successor not only provide direction but also show that Elijah’s mission must continue beyond his lifetime, similar to Jesus commissioning His disciples in Matthew 28:19-20.
Recommissioning:Following this gentle encounter, God gave Elijah new tasks, including anointing new kings and appointing Elisha as his prophetic successor (1 Kings 19:15-16). This recommissioning helped redirect Elijah’s focus from his fears and failures to purposeful action and reaffirmed that his life and mission were far from over.
Verse 21: “So Elisha left the oxen and ran after Elijah. Then he took his cloak and rolled it up and struck the water with it.”
Commentary: Elisha’s immediate response signifies his readiness to embrace the prophetic call. The transfer of the cloak from Elijah to Elisha symbolizes passing the mantle of prophetic authority, reminiscent of Moses passing leadership to Joshua (Deuteronomy 31:7-8).
Community and Succession: By instructing Elijah to anoint Elisha as his successor, God addressed Elijah’s sense of isolation by providing him a companion and successor in his prophetic ministry (1 Kings 19:19-21). This partnership not only alleviated his loneliness but also ensured the continuity of his work.
Key Takeaways
- God’s Comprehensive Care: This passage illustrates that God cares for His servants’ physical and spiritual needs, ensuring they are fully equipped for their divine missions.
- God’s Presence in Subtlety: Elijah’s experience teaches that divine revelations are not limited to dramatic events but can also occur in quiet, subtle ways.
- Continuity of God’s Work: Through the commissioning of successors and new leaders, the story emphasizes that the work of God is larger than any single individual and is meant to continue across generations.
- Immediate Obedience: The readiness of Elisha to follow Elijah’s call underscores the importance of immediate and decisive action when responding to God’s purposes.
Lamedh – Psalm 119:89-96
“Lamedh” (ל) is the twelfth letter of the Hebrew alphabet and serves as the heading for the twelfth section of Psalm 119 (verses 89-96). Each verse in this section begins with “Lamedh” in the original Hebrew, maintaining the acrostic pattern of the psalm.
The symbolic meaning of “Lamedh” can be explored in various dimensions:
Literal Meaning and Symbolism: “Lamedh” literally means “to learn” or “to teach” in Hebrew. This connection highlights the themes of learning and instruction that are central to Psalm 119. In this context, “Lamedh” represents the learning and application of God’s law, underscoring the psalmist’s dedication to understanding and living out the teachings of the scriptures.
Shape and Representation: The shape of the letter “Lamedh” is unique as it is the tallest letter in the Hebrew alphabet and is said to represent a tower reaching from the earth to the heavens. Symbolically, this can illustrate the connection between human and divine, suggesting that God’s laws provide a bridge or conduit through which humans can reach toward divine understanding and spirituality.
Authority and Guidance: “Lamedh” is considered to signify authority and control, reflecting the authoritative nature of God’s word as a guide for life. This symbolizes the ultimate authority of the scriptures and their role in guiding the moral and spiritual walk of believers.
Heart of Wisdom: In Jewish thought, “Lamedh” is sometimes associated with the “heart,” implying a deep, internalized wisdom. This correlates with the psalmist’s expressions about the depth and richness of God’s commandments, which are more than rules—they are deep insights into life and conduits of wisdom.
Role of Instruction in Spiritual Growth: Given its association with teaching and learning, “Lamedh” emphasizes the ongoing process of spiritual education through God’s word. It represents the continuous growth in understanding and the never-ending journey of aligning one’s life more closely with divine precepts.
In summary, “Lamedh” in Psalm 119 symbolizes the profound relationship between learning God’s laws and reaching towards spiritual maturity. It highlights the role of God’s commandments as authoritative guidance for living, the deep wisdom contained within the scriptures, and the connection they provide between earthly existence and divine truth. Through the lens of “Lamedh,” the psalmist portrays the scriptures as both a foundational learning tool and a bridge to higher spiritual understanding.
Psalm 119:89-96: Verse by Verse Analysis
Verse 89:
Text: “Your word, Lord, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens.”
Reflection: The psalmist emphasizes the unchanging and everlasting nature of God’s word, highlighting its stability and permanence.
Cross-reference: Isaiah 40:8 – “The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.”
Verse 90:
Text: “Your faithfulness continues through all generations; you established the earth, and it endures.”
Reflection: This verse connects God’s faithfulness with the enduring creation, suggesting that just as the earth remains, so does God’s reliability from one generation to the next.
Cross-reference: Lamentations 3:23 – “Great is your faithfulness.”
Verse 91:
Text: “Your laws endure to this day, for all things serve you.”
Reflection: The psalmist observes that all of creation adheres to God’s laws, underscoring the idea that God’s ordinances are not only enduring but also universal.
Cross-reference: Colossians 1:16-17 – “For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.”
Verse 92:
Text: “If your law had not been my delight, I would have perished in my affliction.”
Reflection: Reflecting on personal hardships, the psalmist credits his survival to the joy and strength found in God’s law.
Cross-reference: Job 23:12 – “I have not departed from the commands of his lips; I have treasured the words of his mouth more than my daily bread.”
Verse 93:
Text: “I will never forget your precepts, for by them you have preserved my life.”
Reflection: Committing to remember God’s teachings, the psalmist acknowledges that these precepts have been life-saving.
Cross-reference: Deuteronomy 6:24 – “The Lord commanded us to obey all these decrees and to fear the Lord our God, so that we might always prosper and be kept alive, as is the case today.”
Verse 94:
Text: “Save me, for I am yours; I have sought out your precepts.”
Reflection: Declaring himself to belong to God, the psalmist seeks salvation, grounding his plea in his pursuit of God’s laws.
Cross-reference: Psalm 86:2 – “Guard my life, for I am faithful to you; save your servant who trusts in you. You are my God;”
Verse 95:
Text: “The wicked are waiting to destroy me, but I will ponder your statutes.”
Reflection: Despite threats from the wicked, the psalmist remains focused on studying and reflecting on God’s statutes.
Cross-reference: Psalm 37:32 – “The wicked lie in wait for the righteous, intent on putting them to death;”
Verse 96:
Text: “To all perfection I see a limit, but your commands are boundless.”
Reflection: The psalmist observes that everything else has limitations, but God’s commands are limitless and infinitely profound.
Cross-reference: Ecclesiastes 3:11 – “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Key Takeaways from Psalm 119:89-96:
Eternal and Unchanging Word: The psalmist highlights the eternal, unchanging nature of God’s word, which serves as a stable foundation in the believer’s life.
Faithfulness of God Across Generations: God’s faithfulness is depicted as enduring and reliable, extending through all generations and mirrored in the consistent order of creation.
Sustaining Power of God’s Law: Reflecting on personal experiences of affliction, the psalmist credits God’s precepts with providing not only physical but also spiritual sustenance and protection.
Permanence of Divine Commands: In a world where all things have limits, God’s commands stand out as limitless, offering boundless wisdom and guidance.
Resolute Focus on God’s Word: Despite adversities and external threats, the psalmist’s commitment to meditate on and adhere to God’s statutes
Life Through the Holy Spirit – More Than Conquerors
More Than Conquerors
Love (31–39). The Spirit of God makes the love of God real to us (5:5; John 14:23–27). The Father is for us (vv. 31–32), the Son is for us (v. 34), and the Spirit is for us (vv. 26–27). Nothing can separate us from His love. Is there any reason why we should not be “more than conquerors”?
“The Holy Spirit longs to reveal to you the deeper things of God. He longs to love through you. He longs to work through you. Through the blessed Holy Spirit you may have: strength for every duty, wisdom for every problem, comfort in every sorrow, joy in His overflowing service.” T. J. Bach
Romans 8:31: God’s Unfailing Support
Verse: “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”
Cross-Reference: Psalm 118:6 – “The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”
Application: Embrace a life of bold faith, knowing God’s unparalleled support makes opposition null.
Romans 8:32: Assurance of God’s Provision
Verse: “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?”
Cross-Reference: Philippians 4:19 – “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”
Application: Trust in God’s willingness to provide for your every need, rooted in His sacrificial love.
Romans 8:33-34: Our Righteous Standing
Verse: “Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.”
Cross-Reference: Hebrews 7:25 – “Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.”
Application: Rest in the assurance of your salvation and the effectiveness of Christ’s intercession on your behalf.
Romans 8:35-37: Love That Overcomes
Verse: “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: ‘For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.’ No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”
Cross-Reference: John 16:33 – “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Application: Stand firm amid trials, empowered by the victory and love of Christ that surpass all obstacles.
Romans 8:38-39: The Inseparability from God’s Love
Verse: “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Cross-Reference: Ephesians 3:18-19 – “…may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ…”
Application: Find peace and courage in the unbreakable bond of love between you and God through Christ.
Key Takeaways:
- Unmatched Support: God’s support is unparalleled; knowing He is for us should inspire unwavering confidence in His providence.
- Providential Love: The sacrificial gift of Jesus is the utmost evidence of God’s love and a promise of His provision in our lives.
- Righteous Assurance: Our justified status and Christ’s intercession provide a firm foundation for our faith, free from condemnation.
- Victorious Love: The love of Christ empowers us to overcome any trial, affirming our identity as more than conquerors.
- Eternal Security: The certainty that nothing can separate us from God’s love in Christ offers enduring peace and assurance.
Romans 8:31-39, with its profound themes of divine support, love, and security, stands as a monumental assurance of the believer’s position in Christ. It encourages a life lived in confidence of God’s unwavering commitment to His people.
Kaph – Psalm 119:81-88
“Kaph” (כ) is the eleventh letter of the Hebrew alphabet and serves as the heading for the eleventh section of Psalm 119 (verses 81-88). In this section, as with others, each verse begins with “Kaph” in the original Hebrew text, continuing the acrostic structure that characterizes the psalm.
The symbolic meaning of “Kaph” can be understood in several ways:
Literal Meaning and Symbolism: “Kaph” means “palm” of the hand in Hebrew. This can symbolize openness to receive, hold, or offer something. In the context of Psalm 119, “Kaph” could represent the psalmist’s openness to receiving God’s teachings and blessings, holding onto God’s promises, and offering prayers and obedience in return.
Protection and Care: The image of a palm can also evoke notions of protection (as in covering) and care (as in cradling). This aligns with the themes of Psalm 119, where the psalmist seeks God’s protection and care through adherence to His commandments, especially amidst affliction and persecution.
Human Effort and Divine Provision: The hand is a symbol of human action and effort. “Kaph,” therefore, might signify the interaction between human effort—in studying, understanding, and following God’s law—and divine provision, where God offers guidance, strength, and comfort through His word.
Gesture of Prayer and Supplication: Hands are often used in prayer as a gesture of supplication and devotion. This could reflect the psalmist’s prayers for understanding, deliverance, and the strength to remain faithful to God’s statutes, symbolizing a continuous dialogue between the believer and the divine.
Capacity to Act and Create: Given its association with the hand, “Kaph” can symbolize the capacity to act and to create. In Psalm 119, this might represent the creative and transformative power of God’s word in the believer’s life, enabling action in accordance with divine will and contributing to the believer’s spiritual growth and development.
In summary, “Kaph” in Psalm 119 symbolizes the psalmist’s openness to receiving divine wisdom, seeking protection and care through God’s commandments, the interplay of human effort with divine guidance, the importance of prayerful supplication, and the capacity for action and transformation under the guidance of God’s word.
Psalm 119:81-88: Verse by Verse Analysis
Verse 81:
Text: “My soul faints with longing for your salvation, but I have put my hope in your word.”
Reflection: The psalmist expresses a deep, consuming desire for God’s deliverance, indicating a state of exhaustion from waiting yet maintains hope through God’s promises.
Cross-reference: Lamentations 3:25-26 – “The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.”
Verse 82:
Text: “My eyes fail, looking for your promise; I say, ‘When will you comfort me?'”
Reflection: A vivid depiction of the psalmist’s eagerness for God’s fulfillment of His promise, showing physical and emotional strain from waiting for divine consolation.
Cross-reference: Isaiah 40:31 – “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Verse 83:
Text: “Though I am like a wineskin in the smoke, I do not forget your decrees.”
Reflection: Despite feeling dried out and withered from trials, similar to a wineskin exposed to smoke, the psalmist remains committed to God’s laws.
Cross-reference: James 1:12 – “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”
Verse 84:
Text: “How long must your servant wait? When will you punish those who persecute me?”
Reflection: An expression of impatience and longing for justice, the psalmist questions the timing of God’s intervention against his adversaries.
Cross-reference: Revelation 6:10 – “They called out in a loud voice, ‘How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?'”
Verse 85:
Text: “The arrogant dig pits to trap me, contrary to your law.”
Reflection: The psalmist describes the deceitful tactics of the arrogant who actively work against him in ways that violate God’s law.
Cross-reference: Psalm 7:15-16 – “Whoever digs a hole and scoops it out falls into the pit they have made. The trouble they cause recoils on them; their violence comes down on their own heads.”
Verse 86:
Text: “All your commands are trustworthy; help me, for I am being persecuted without cause.”
Reflection: Affirming the reliability of God’s commands, the psalmist seeks divine assistance amidst undeserved persecution.
Cross-reference: 2 Timothy 3:12 – “In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”
Verse 87:
Text: “They almost wiped me from the earth, but I have not forsaken your precepts.”
Reflection: Despite the severity of his trials, to the point of nearly being destroyed, the psalmist’s dedication to God’s precepts remains unshaken.
Cross-reference: Job 17:9 – “The righteous keep moving forward, and those with clean hands become stronger and stronger.”
Verse 88:
Text: “In your unfailing love preserve my life, that I may obey the statutes of your mouth.”
Reflection: The psalmist appeals for life preservation, motivated by a desire to continue living in obedience to God’s statutes, highlighting the intertwining of divine love and the commitment to God’s commandments.
Cross-reference: Psalm 36:7 – “How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.”
Key Takeaways from Psalm 119:81-88:
Longing for Deliverance and Divine Justice: These verses vividly portray the psalmist’s intense longing for salvation and yearning for God’s justice, emphasizing the tension between enduring suffering and maintaining hope in God’s promises.
Resilience Amidst Adversity: Despite facing significant trials and persecution, the psalmist’s adherence to God’s decrees remains steadfast, showcasing the strength of faith even when faced with the prospect of destruction.
Trust in God’s Unfailing Love: The psalmist’s appeals for preservation and help are rooted in trust in God’s unfailing love, highlighting the belief that divine compassion is the foundation for enduring obedience to God’s statutes.
The Virtue of Patience in Suffering: The expressions of waiting, questioning the timing of God’s intervention, and enduring persecution underscore the virtue of patience, as the psalmist navigates the challenges of maintaining faithfulness amidst suffering.
Affirmation of God’s Commandments: Amidst the challenges, there is a continual affirmation of the trustworthiness and value of God’s commands, which serve as a guide and source of hope for the beleaguered believer.
Sermon Notes: Easter, The Core of Christian Faith
Mark 16:1-7 NIV When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body. [2] Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb [3] and they asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?” [4] But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. [5] As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed. [6] “Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. [7] But go, tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.’ ”
He arose (1–8). Because they forgot His resurrection promises, the women were in sorrow and worrying about the future: “Who will roll away the stone?” When they learned that Jesus was alive, their first response was fear and not faith; but then they became the first heralds of the Resurrection. The angel had a special word for Peter (v. 7) who was no doubt still grieving his sins. The living Christ gives you something to rejoice in, something to talk about, and something to look forward to. He goes before you!
Easter is of paramount importance to Christians for several reasons, reflecting the core of Christian faith and theology.
Here are three central reasons to rejoice in Easter:
Resurrection of Jesus Christ:
- Easter commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead on the third day after His crucifixion.
- This event is the fulfillment of the promises made in the Old Testament and the definitive proof of Jesus’ divine nature.
- The resurrection is central to Christian belief because it demonstrates Jesus’ victory over sin and death, affirming the belief in life after death for all who believe in Him (1 Corinthians 15:17-20).
Foundation of Christian Faith:
- The Apostle Paul stated that if Christ has not been raised, the Christian faith is futile, and believers are still in their sins (1 Corinthians 15:17).
- The resurrection is thus foundational to the Christian faith; it validates Jesus’ teachings, His sacrificial death for the sins of humanity, and His claims of divinity.
- Without the resurrection, the crucifixion would be the end of the story, making the hope of salvation and eternal life void.
Promise of Eternal Life:
- Easter embodies the promise of eternal life for Christians.
- The resurrection of Jesus is seen as the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep (died in faith), promising believers resurrection and eternal life with God.
- This hope of resurrection and new life begins now through spiritual renewal and transformation and culminates in the believer’s own resurrection to eternal life (John 11:25-26).
- Easter, therefore, is not just a historical event to be remembered; it is a current reality that influences how Christians live their lives, offering hope, joy, and the promise of redemption and renewal.
For The Believer, Easter Means:
- God can move mountains
- Split seas
- Restore life
- Roll away stones
The Message:
Peter (the redeemed) states it well:
1 Peter 1:3-9 NIV
3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, 5 who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.
Note: The new birth is the work of the Holy Spirit not human will (see Jn 3:3–8).
- John 3:3 NIV. Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again. ”
6 In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7 These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.
- Philippians 4:4-5 NIV Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
8 Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 9 for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
Closing
Here’s a brief overview of key witnesses and what is known or traditionally believed about their fates:
Mary Magdalene: According to the Gospels, she was the first to see Jesus after his resurrection (Mark 16:9, John 20:11-18). Tradition says she spent the remainder of her life preaching the gospel before dying a natural death.
Peter: The first of the apostles to see Jesus after his resurrection (Luke 24:34, 1 Corinthians 15:5). According to Christian tradition, Peter was martyred in Rome under Emperor Nero, crucified upside down at his request, as he did not feel worthy to die in the same manner as Jesus.
The Twelve Apostles: Although Judas Iscariot was no longer among them, the remaining apostles saw Jesus on multiple occasions after his resurrection (Luke 24:36-49, John 20:19-29). Most of the apostles are believed to have been martyred for their faith, except for John, who is traditionally thought to have died of old age in exile.
Thomas: Initially doubting the resurrection, Thomas believed after seeing Jesus and touching his wounds (John 20:24-29). Tradition holds that Thomas preached the gospel in India and was martyred there.
James: Jesus appeared to his brother James (1 Corinthians 15:7). James became a leader in the early church in Jerusalem and was eventually martyred.
Paul: Although not a witness to the resurrection, Paul experienced a vision of the risen Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1-19), which led to his conversion. He became a pivotal figure in the spread of Christianity and was eventually martyred in Rome.
The accounts of these encounters and the lives of those who witnessed the resurrected Jesus have been a foundational part of Christian tradition and belief.
Close
The phrase “to all who call upon His name” closely echoes a passage found in Romans 10:13 of the New Testament, which states:
“For, ‘everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.'”
This verse is a quotation from Joel 2:32 in the Old Testament, which similarly states:
“And everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved; for on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there will be deliverance, as the LORD has said, even among the survivors whom the LORD calls.”
Easter Sunday: The Resurrection
Mark 16:1-7 NIV When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body. [2] Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb [3] and they asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?” [4] But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. [5] As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed. [6] “Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. [7] But go, tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.’ ”
Here are three central reasons why Easter is important to the Christian:
Resurrection of Jesus Christ:
- Easter commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead on the third day after His crucifixion.
- This event is the fulfillment of the promises made in the Old Testament and the definitive proof of Jesus’ divine nature.
- The resurrection is central to Christian belief because it demonstrates Jesus’ victory over sin and death, affirming the belief in life after death for all who believe in Him (1 Corinthians 15:17-20).
Foundation of Christian Faith:
- The Apostle Paul stated that if Christ has not been raised, the Christian faith is futile, and believers are still in their sins (1 Corinthians 15:17).
- The resurrection is thus foundational to the Christian faith; it validates Jesus’ teachings, His sacrificial death for the sins of humanity, and His claims of divinity.
- Without the resurrection, the crucifixion would be the end of the story, making the hope of salvation and eternal life void.
Promise of Eternal Life:
- Easter embodies the promise of eternal life for Christians.
- The resurrection of Jesus is seen as the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep (died in faith), promising believers resurrection and eternal life with God.
- This hope of resurrection and new life begins now through spiritual renewal and transformation and culminates in the believer’s own resurrection to eternal life (John 11:25-26).
- Easter, therefore, is not just a historical event to be remembered; it is a current reality that influences how Christians live their lives, offering hope, joy, and the promise of redemption and renewal.