Comments for April 25

10 v. 11 - Notice how precise God is here with his language - that they may go in. Not that you may go in, as God knew that Moses would not, even after all he had done for the people. Deut.3:23-27, 9:18,25.

10 v.3 'ark of Shittim wood' is not the ark of the covenant spoken of in Exodus. It would appear that Moses made a container for the tables of stones that he wrote the law on the second time.
10 v.5 And so we might presume that the tables of stone were place inside the ark of the covenant, when the tabernacle was built, in the ark [box] that Moses had made for them at the first.
11 v.10 The idea of watering crops with their feet refers to the fact that irrigation of the crops in Egypt was effected using irrigation canals where water was diverted from the Nile and was pumped into the fields using foot powered water wheels. This contrasts with the land of Israel, where the fields were watered directly with the rain from heaven. The spiritual lesson is that in 'Egypt' man lived by his own strength whereas in 'Israel' man lives by God's provision.

11v.7 - The fact that they had seen the great works of God with their own eyes gave them a serious responsibility. We need to recognise too that the more we come to recognise the great works which God has done on our behalf, the greater our responsibility to follow Him really is.

10:12 This language is the basis for the words of the prophet (Micah 6:8) in the context of the deliverance from Egypt. Yet another example of the details of the wilderness journey being used as a lesson for later generations.
10:16 This way of living can only achieved through a circumcised heart. Circumcision of the flesh is not sufficient. These words must affect the heart of the individual in covenant relationship with God.

11:17 'that there be no rain' is a threat that God make to Israel if they were unfaithful. This is why Elijah (1 Kings 17:1) prayed that it would not rain. James 5:17 He doubtless hoped that that the drought would bring Israel to their senses as they realised that they were suffering because they were astray from God.

GETTING STRONG

The quest for strength has been going on for centuries. From almost the beginning of time men have competed in games to see who is the strongest, fittest, fastest, bravest and best. It continues even today with sports tournaments, Olympics, Commonwealth Games and other events from local to international competitions.

Yet with all the training and discipline that goes on in preparing for and competing in these events, most people forget or have not heard the secret of true strength. It is a simple secret but most people do not recognise it or refuse to accept it.

Moses told Israel, "Observe therefore all the commands I am giving you today, so that you may have the strength to go in and take over the land that the LORD swore to your forefathers to give them and their descendants."

Observing the commands of the LORD certainly will give us a different strength to that used in games, but it is a stronger and much more lasting strength with power beyond human imagination. Begin training today. Obey and be strong.

10:17 The language from this verse is quoted (1 Timothy 6:15) to speak of the majesty of God - He hasn't changed from Old to New Testament.

11:14 When Yahweh told Israel that they would receive the first rain and the latter rain they would have had no idea what was being spoken of. In Egypt, where they had been for 215 years, does not have rain, let alone seasons of rain.

ch 10 - The children of Israel were by nationality the descendants of Abraham, but none the less God causes them to remember that they were strangers in the Land of Egypt, "Love ye therefore the stranger for ye were strangers in Egypt" (Deut 10:19). So the love of God is emphasised here, as God had loved them they were also to love the stranger (a temporary inhabitant, a newcomer lacking inherited rights). This is a teaching that seems to be regularly focused upon under the Mosaic Law teaching the nation there was no room for nationalistic or self-righteous pride and that God was no respecter of persons. This teaching pointed forward to the new covenant that God would make with the house of Israel and the house of Judah. But some Jewish believers in the New Testament who claimed to be Christians but still upheld the Mosaic Law conveniently disregarded this part of the law relating to strangers, and refused point blank to accept that God through the Gospel of Grace "had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles”. This high handed, nationalistic, unloving, self-righteous approach was to cause much conflict in the first century ecclesias. The apostle had to deal with this problem at Ephesus and in his usual indomitable way exhorted them Ephesians 2:12, “That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world”: Ephesians 2:19 “Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God”.

10:22 the mention of 'threescore and ten souls; quotes (Exo 1:5) which was to remind those at the end of the wilderness journey the way in which God had blessed the family of Jacob since his arrival in Egypt - and that is despite the oppression of Egypt.

11:18 The binding of the words repeats the command of Moses (Deut 6:8) but this was not to be simply a ritual. 'between your eyes' meant that Israel were always to have the word in their sight.  Readings the Word was not a mere ritual. It was their life. How do we view the daily readings?

 10:12  "What doth the LORD thy God require (request) of thee?"

The same is expected of us to day, as spiritual Israel

Israel had to both obey the LORD and to love Him (10:12; 11:1).  Duty alone is not sufficient to serve the LORD.  Our service must also be an act of love as well as a duty (1Cor 13).   Duty without love is not acceptable to the LORD.

Israel is still jealously watched by the LORD today (11:12)

11:27,28  preview the larger treatise of blessings and curses found in Deut. 28.

10:8       It might seem a small thing to use the word ‘stand’ when speaking of the sons of Levi being chosen by God as priests. However it is just this point that Paul, speaking specifically about the high priest, contrasts the Mosaic order with Jesus – Heb 10:11-12

11:16      Israel were liable to be ‘deceived’ into worshipping other Gods. Eve was ‘deceived’ 1Tim 2:14 by the serpent indicating that Israel’s weakness is a consequence of their Adamic nature. We, as the bride of Christ, are not exempt. either.

Deut 10:17  God is impartial.... Acts 10:34 God doesn't show favouritism.... Rom 2:5-11 God will judge and reward each person according to what they have done be it on the day of God's wrath v5 or be it the bestowing of immortality v7.... James 2:1 we are not to show favouritism.... Rom 2:1-3; Matt 7:1-2 we are not to judge others 

Deut 11:26-28 - here we have 2 equations: obey = blessing, disobey = cursing

11:14 The early rain came primarily during September and October, while the latter rain fell in the early spring of the year. There were occasional showers during the winter, but, the rains in the autumn and spring were the heaviest and the most important. The early rain was necessary, after a hot summer, to prepare the soil for the planting of the seed, and the latter rain, which preceded the harvest, was of the greatest value in the providing the powers of vegetation.  

11:24   The promise that everywhere where the ‘soles of your feet’ will tread will be ‘yours’ is the basis for the promise – Josh 3:13 – that when the priests stand in the river Jordan that the waters will be ‘cut off’.  The Jordan typifies death. The entry into the land signified the resurrection. The promise in Deut 11:24, was typically fulfilled.

11:29  Because of the acoustics of the landscape, the blessings and curses could be heard from both Mt. Gerizim and Mt. Ebal, and naturally everywhere in between. It was on Mt. Gerizim that the Samaritans set up their temple as a rival to that of Jerusalem. The present-day Samaritans, in Israel, still offer animal sacrifices, while religious Jews do not.

10:5-6 We should be aware that there is a gap of about 38 years between these two verses. The incident of the stone tablets is at Sinai near the beginning of the wilderness journey whereas the death of Aaron took place in the 40^th year of their time in the wilderness.

10:2 Yahweh’s Word can never be silenced.  Men have tried but have failed.  For example, Jehoiakim tried to destroy it, but it was re-written (Jer 36:23,32).  The Catholic Church did not want people to read the Bible for themselves.  They tried to stop William Tyndale (1494-1536) from publishing and distributing his new translation of the Bible. The Church murdered Tyndale but this did not stop what he started.  Others followed Tyndale until King James authorised the 1611 version.  Today, the KJV and other versions are freely read by anyone.  The Word of God cannot be stopped.  This, surely, is proof of the Living God who oversees all things.

10:14 the phrase the heaven and the heaven of heavens is used to show the vastness of Yahweh’s creation beyond the limitations of the earth.

11:14 the first (early) rain is in fall/winter; and the latter rain is in spring.

11:17 The withholding of rain will also occur in the Kingdom for negligent nations (Zech 14:17).

World's strongest man?

Either Moses was a very strong man, or the tablets of stone were a little smaller than we might imagine them (10:3). Ever tried mountain climbing with a paving slab under each arm?

Did You Know?

Did you know that Moses pleaded with God for 40 days, fasting and lying on the ground? (10:10, 9:18,25)

A Point to Ponder

(11:2-7) How can Moses be speaking to the original generation who lived in Egypt, if God had destroyed them in the wilderness? (Num 32:13)

Deut 10:18-19 - God cares for the alien/stranger and we should love them as well (Lev 19:18;Luke 10:25-37).

10:10 Having spoken about the journeying of Israel and the death of Aaron which took place in the 40^th year of the wilderness journey Moses now returns to speak of what happened at Sinai when he was given the two tables of the law at the beginning of the wilderness journey.

10:9   In saying that the Levites would have no inheritance here at the end of the wilderness journey Moses is re-stating that which was spoken before – Num 18:20. Their focus was to be upon God, not on the things of this life.

LESS EXPERIENCE

As Israel prepared themselves to enter the Promised Land, God gave them a message he wanted remembered and acted on. He said, "Remember today that your children were not the ones who saw and experienced the discipline of the LORD your God: his majesty, his mighty hand, his outstretched arm; the signs he performed and the things he did in the heart of Egypt ... It was not your children who saw what he did for you in the desert until you arrived at this place." (Deut 11:3,5)

By the time we become parents, we have had twenty or thirty years of life experience. As Christians we can look back over the years we have had, however many they are, and see the hand of God working to bring us to the position we are in today. Our children have not had that experience.

Like Israel, we need to remember that our children do not have the same foundations for faith as we do. As our children grow, they can begin to see the way God works in their lives. But until then, we need to share the stories God has put in our lives that have become the basis of our faith, to give our children a platform on which to build their own faith.

So let's share our experiences of faith with our children. In doing so, we will not only grow their faith in God, but will also strengthen our own.

11:11 The land was one which God watered and fed. This contrasted with Egypt where the fruitfulness of the land was due to man’s endeavours.  Israel were going to the land of God’s provision and he would take care of the land#, allowing Israel to be its tenants.

FIVE SIMPLE INSTRUCTIONS

"And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to observe the LORD's decrees that I am giving you today for your own good?"(Deut 10:12-13) God doesn't change. He wants the same things for us today as he wanted from Israel way back then.

1. "Fear the LORD your God."We can't be flippant or too familiar with him. He is our God and our judge. He deserves our respect and fear.
2. "Walk in all his ways."To walk means we are going somewhere - to his kingdom. We need to check our direction. Pray and read his direction book, the Bible, and walk in his ways.
3. "Love him"God created us to respond to him. Free will means we can choose to love God or reject him. We need to choose to love him.
4. "Serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul."Make the effort to serve the LORD. Work for him. There is always plenty to do in our communities. Not only should we make the effort, but we should do it willingly with a positive attitude.
5. "Observe the LORD's decrees that I am giving you today for your own good."Obey his instructions because he knows best and his instructions to us have our best interests at heart.

God wants five simple things from us. They are not hard, but they do demand our all.

11:17 The power to prevent rain is vested in  the two witnesses in Rev 11:6

 11:1   In starting this chapter with “therefore” we should realise that the requirement to love God is a consequence of what has been said previously. IN this case it is the fact that God blessed the small group that went into Egypt with Jacob. 

10:16 The promise that God will take care of our needs, in particular mentioning “food and raiment” is the basis of Paul’s comment to Timothy –1Tim 6:8

11:14  When Moses speaks of the early and latter rain he is telling the people, at the border of the land, that their long waiting was going to be over. They would inherit that for which they had been waiting. James – James 5:7– uses the same sort of idea when writing to his audience.

11:17   Almost exactly the same words regarding heavens being shut up and there being no rain are used – 1Kin 8:35 – by Solomon when praying at the dedication of the temple he built.

10:12 Saul was told – 1Sam 12:24 – to serve God using the words that we find on Moses’ lips here.

11:24   The phrase “from the wilderness … your coast be” are words of encouragement which God spoke to Joshua in Josh 1:4

10:1 Whilst in earlier chapters Moses reminded Israel of recent events with the taking of the land on the east of Jordan we should notice that from time to time Moses returns to earlier events that took place between Egypt and the place where they were receiving these words. Here Moses returns to what happened at Sinai.

11:26-28 It was ever thus. A simple choice between obedience to God’s words or disobedience. It started in the Garden of Eden. Eve has a simple choice. Do I listen to God’s words spoken by Adam or the words of the serpent?

11:2 Those listening to Moses speaking the words of this book had lived through the wilderness journey, or at least part of it. They had experienced the difficulties of the journey and the dissembling against God and His reaction. They may have just viewed those events as “natural occurrences”. However they involved the “chastening of the Lord”. Do we see life as a series of unrelated events or do we look for God working in our lives for our salvation?

11:22 The nation, like us, need repeated reminders of what we should do. Hence Moses reminds the nation of what had been said earlier –  6:17 – Herein is the value of regular readings of scripture, even if we have read it before and are to some extent familiar with it.

v.2 - This hatred of life comes directly from the considerations of how vain it is, and yet there is only hope of coming to God while we are still alive, so let us make the best of what we have. ch.2:17, 9:4-6, Job 3:17-21.

4:4 'travail' - Ecclesiastes 1:13 2:23,26 3:10 4:4,6,8 5:14 'vexation of spirit' - Ecclesiastes 1:14,17 2:11,17,26 4:4,6,16 6:9 speaks of the emptiness and futility of life when Yahweh is not seen in life's experiences. Those who comprised faithless Israel were to experience this when the faithful were blessed. Isaiah 65:14

v.6 picks up a theme that has run throughout Proverbs (15:16,17, 16:18, 17:1 see also Psa.37:16). Perhaps a lesson the those who seek a 'life of adventure'.

The whole depressing chapter is not speaking of the expectations of the child of God. It is only those with no hope who share the misery described in this chapter. The brother or sister in Christ should not feel like this.

STRESS OR TRANQUILITY

In today's modern world everyone seems to be after the top jobs. To stay on the top we need cell phones, e-mail, pagers and fast cars. We run around like mad things trying to keep up and advance our careers. But with all this running around, tight deadlines, the demand for more, for precision and economy, comes the biggest killer of the human race - stress. From what I have seen, it doesn't matter how much stress we put up with, as long as we can earn the big money and advance our career, it is said to be worth it. But it is not.

Solomon was right when he said, "Better one handful with tranquillity than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind." If we aim for the top and put all our energy into getting rich (or, as the preacher puts it, getting two handfuls) we will find ourselves stressed to the max, and when we look over our lives later on, we will find that it has all been a waste of time - a chasing after the wind. But if we content ourselves with a little less (the one handful), we also find we will gain tranquillity. With the blessing of tranquillity we will also find that we have time for God. We will be able to get close to him and find peace and a place in God's kingdom.

:6 How true this statement is. So often we strive for 'things' only to discover that those 'things' bring with them their own problems.

In vs. 8; The first thing that a covetous man desires is to have no one close to him, this man "heaps up riches and knoweth not who shall gather them"(Psa 39:6;) This man has no room for friendship for he does not reflect that loving and kindly disposition that gains friends. Instead of using his fortune wisely, he hoards it and this causes his heart to despair. The pursuit and preoccupation of wealth does not satisfy and draws us away from God, Jesus picks this up in contrast to being preoccupied with following him Matthew 16:26; “For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul”? The Mammon man who loses his soul is so bound up with his wealth that he severs his connection with those around him and their activities. Jesus again said in relation to this kind of attitude, Matthew 6:21 “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also”. In regard to this way of thinking let us take to our selves Solomon's qualified advice, “This is also vanity, yea it is a sore travail”.

 4:12  This seeming natural statement 'a threefold cord is not easily broken' develops 'in the mouth of two or three witnesses'  Deut 17:6

V.9-12 Two are better than one Two can accomplish more work together than singly; they can help one another in difficulties; they can keep one another warm while spending a cold night in the open; they can better resist bandits. Still greater is the strength of a cord in which three strands are entwined.

ENVY
 
"You shall not covet," is like the bookend of the Ten Commandments.  With the mastery of the commandment against coveting, many of the others will largely fall into place.  Much of the reason to steal, to lie or to commit adultery will evaporate if only we would learn not to covet.  It is when we look around at the things our neighbour has that we get envious, because it always looks as if they have so much more than we have.  In reality though, our neighbour is probably looking over the fence at us and wishing that they had what we have got. 
 
But why can't we just learn to be content with what we have been given?  Surely it is better to give thanks for the blessings God gives us than to wear both ourselves and God down with continual grumbling and asking for more.  The teacher saw the same thing.  He says, "And I saw that all labour and all achievement spring from man's envy of his neighbour.  This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind." (Ecc 4:4)
 
Even though we know it is wrong, we still get caught up in the rat race - coveting, envying and working with the aim of improving our status.  Let's get out of that meaningless state and give ourselves real meaning to live by.

Solomon builds up an idea, starting with one, then to two, and then to three
(Ecc 4:9-12).  Two people get more done than one working alone; he can help his fellow in the case of an accident; they can gain heat from each other; and one can protect the other one. But a threefold cord is not quickly broken. So it is in our ecclesial work. Being on the side of God and Christ is a real blessing.

4:7 On a number of times Solomon ‘returned’. We might ask where he returned from and where he returned to. He returned from looking at men and women in the kingdom of Israel to go to the house of God. It was in the house of God that he saw the ‘vanity’ of this life.

4:8 That man is not satisfied with what he sees is a point that Solomon returns to – Ecc 5:10 – If only we could learn that we will never be satisfied with things that this life can offer.

Extremes are discouraged. Neither being a workaholic (v.4) nor being indolent (v.5) is acceptable. A balance between the two opposites is recommended (v.6)

4:2-3  This depressing comment upon life and death can only be true of those who do not see God at work n their lives. Those who recognise God s at work in their lives have hope. Those who do not do not have hope. So we must recognise this seemingly pointless existence only has meaning when viewed against the background of the Gospel message.

Vs.9-12 The preacher describes the advantage of two working together. Nevertheless, exceptionally single-minded persons have chosen to be alone for the sake of the Truth. Jesus is the prime example. Paul also chose that route and wished that all could be like him (for the Truth’s sake) (1Cor 7:7). However, Paul allowed for the fact that most people are not like him, thus he recommended marriage (1Cor 7:9). And so, for most people, the preacher is right that two are better than one.

KEEPING UP WITH THE JONES'

My brother in law just had a conversation with his son. His seven year old son wanted a cup of peppermint tea. Why did he want it? He wanted peppermint tea because his younger brother had a cup of peppermint tea. "So," my brother in law asked, "What would you have if Henry didn't have peppermint tea?" His son responded, "Juice."

Even as a seven year old, my nephew had a desire to keep up with the people around him. If someone else had something, then he should have it too. That desire does not disappear. It may become more subtle as we get older, but if we look around at our peers, we will see that we all have similar standards of lifestyle and possessions. Few of us are left behind because, like it or not, we aim to keep up with those around us. The Teacher saw this trend when he said,  "And I saw that all labour and achievement spring from man's envy of his neighbour. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind." (Ecc 4:4)

Let's take note of the motivation we have when we next go out to gain bigger, better, or more possessions. Are we doing it because we need it? Or are we gaining more just because it is what everyone else is doing or we need to keep up with our living standards?

Do all to the glory of God.

4:8 The ‘sore travail’ harks back to Solomon’s comment in Ecc 1:13

Vs.9-12 No follower of Christ should ever be alone and unaided.  It is the duty each disciple of Christ to support fellow brothers and sisters (Gal 6:2; 1John 3:17).

Vs.13,14 Solomon might have been thinking about David.  He was virtually in prison under duress from Saul.  Eventually, David came out of poverty to wealth and power.  He took over from Saul, a king who would not be admonished.

4:9-12 There is a fundamental principle that two are better than one - Gen 2:18 – which provides the basis for fellowship. Fellowship helps us deal with the knocks of life.

4:13       The king who will not be admonished has a ‘closed mind’ – possibly created by his status and power.  Do we ever feel so all knowing before others we deem to be less important than ourselves?

A CALM ANSWER

"If a ruler's anger rises against you, do not leave your post; calmness can lay great errors to rest."(Ecc 4:10).This is not only true when it comes to standing before a ruler or a king, but also with a spouse, child, parent, employer or employee, or in any other situation where a heated conflict can arise.

It seems to me that when two people start to raise their voices at each other, any relationships that were once there begin to be eroded. Sometimes years of positive friendship can end within minutes once both parties start to raise their voices, accuse and counter-accuse. What the wise man is telling us in this proverb is that it doesn't have to be the case. We don't have to respond the same way when someone starts yelling at us, accusing us, or even talking behind our backs. Reacting in like very rarely works as a win-win moment.

Instead, let's take note of these words: "Calmness can lay great errors to rest." We can choose to respond calmly, positively, lovingly and humbly. A massive mud slinging argument cannot happen if only one person is arguing. It takes two. And if we refuse to join in, or we choose to speak lovingly and softly, then in many cases the tension will be reduced and the relationship saved.

Let's try the calm answer next time we find ourselves in a volatile situation.

4:1-2     Consequent upon realising in Ecc 3:16-17 that even the judges of this world are corrupt Solomon reflects on the consequences of that and sees that from a human perspective there is no solution.

4:15       Here and in 4:1 and 4:4 the wise man considered <7200> the other occasions in Ecclesiastes when this word is used it is translated with words such as “seeing” 1:8 “seen” 5:13 indicating that consideration can only come from looking at the details – that is making an informed logical decision based on evidence.

Take time to enjoy life

"Better is a handful, with quietness, than two handfuls with labour and striving after wind." (v6)

This verse really is worth writing out neatly and sticking to the wall. If we trust in what it says, we will have happier lives. I can't really comment more on it except to say that this has been my experience, in the limited time I have had on this earth. In practical terms, it means instead of coming home from work in the evening and toying with my eBay business, doing some freelance work, tuning pianos or giving home maths lessons, I should relax, eat well, get things done around the house, and enjoy spending time with my family (if I have them) or brothers and sisters (if I don't) and both if I can do both together. It really is that simple, and looking back through my life I'm staggered at the amount of time I have filled with needless work of one type or another. Instead, the Bible writer councils us that once we have earned our daily bread, to use the rest of the time to enjoy the fruit of our labour (Ecc 2:24).

1. Ecc 4:1 - "oppressions"<6217>, "oppressed"<6217>, "oppressors"<6231>, "comforter"<5162> - John 14:26 "Comforter"<3875>.

2. Ecc 4:5 - (NET) - "The fool folds his hands and does no work, so he has nothing to eat but his own flesh".

3. Ecc 4:9-12 - the opportunity we have to help and strengthen each other (Gen 2:18;1Sam 18:1;Mark 6:7;Luke 10:1;Matt 18:20).

4:4-5   The man who envies his neighbour is the fool who is inactive. Rather than lament our perceived situation in comparison to others we should labour ourselves. Of course the lesson relates to spiritual things, not simply to material things. 

4:12       at a general level look for examples in Scripture where something happens three time. Many of these are examples of the principle given here. 

4:5    Solomon’s comment here draws on Prov 6:10 and 24:33

4:1    We often return to things that have happened before, but do we consider them? The preacher both returned and considered. Unless we learn from our experiences then they do not benefit us at all.

Summary of Ecclesiastes 4

4:1-3     So it is as if it were better never to be born!

4:4-6     Because when man works his neighbour envies him

             And the fool does nothing

4:7-8     even though owning things does not bring satisfaction

4:9-12   loneliness is destructive whereas in partnership there is strength

4:13-16 An ability to learn is more valuable than  an entrenched way of thinking

4:8     “sore travail” is a comment on the labour that Adam had to undertake after he had sinned – Gen 3:19.

4:10 The principle of two working together is seen, for example, in the way in which Jesus sent the 70 out in pairs – Luke 10:1

4:6 the inspired wise man is encouraging us to be satisfied with what we already have. This contrasts with the marketing “experts” who try to tell us to want more than we have got. We have to ask “to whom do we listen?”

4:5-8 There are two extremes. Idleness that tends to poverty and avarice which never satisfies.

However it is not that there is a “middle course” that is right. There is God’s way which is right. God’s way is to accept the circumstances of life and grow in grace before God through the “travail” that God has given to us that we might grow, forsaking the Adam thinking and developing the Christ thinking.

Ecc 4:10 Do we think that we can be self-sufficient? For much of the time it might appear that we can. However adversity highlights the loneliness of a solitary life.

Fellowship with fellow believers is the antidote. However fellowship has to be nurtured I the “good times” in readiness for the ”evil days” when help is required.

4:8  We might ask who we labour for. All ,except labouring for our heavenly Father, is ultimately simply “travail” and brings trouble (vexation of spirit)

v. 3 - These proofs are recorded for us as well. If you have an on line Bible, you can call up no less than 141 references to this verse, mostly of times when it is recorded that the disciples received some proof of his resurrection. We have this written proof as we too, like them, speak of things pertaining to the kingdom for which we wait. Rom.14:17, Col.1:13, 1Thes.2:12

v. 6 The disciples question  'Wilt thou at this time restore the kingdom to Israel ...' is set against v. 3  'To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:'  The disciples saw the restoration of the kingdom to Israel as things pertaining to the kingdom of God.

v.18-25 Peter's comments here about the demise of Judas seem at variance with what Matthew tells us (Matthew 27:3-5). There is no contradiction. Peter, in Acts, is giving an Old Testament exposition of the Scriptures which foretold his demise. 1:16 'scripture must needs have been fulfilled'.

Peter quotes a number of passages from the Old Testament linking Judas with both Balaam and Ahithophel.

:1 Acts, written by Luke under inspiration, is a companion in particular to Luke's account of the gospel. :1-2 makes this point clear. We should, therefore, expect to see themes from Luke continue into Acts.

God has left us in no doubt about the qualifications of the twelve apostles, obviously foreseeing there would be some who claimed to be apostles and were not. Before the lot was cast for the one to replace Judas. The apostle Peter quoted Psalm 109:8; after which he went on to say, Acts 1:21,22; “Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection”. Their personal witness of the resurrection of Jesus underpins the whole of the book of Acts and the last instruction that Jesus gave the twelve was “Ye shall be witnesses unto me” no one else but the twelve apostles were qualified to undertake this commission.

V.4  The Apostles are waiting in Jerusalem as they were directed to do Luke 24:49  until they were "endued with power from on high" This was what Luke identifies as "the promise of the Father" The Holy Spirit would perfect their understanding. John 14:16; 26 So they could be witnesses both in Jerusalem, (Acts 2) and unto the uttermost part of the earth.(Acts 10)

1:23-26 It may be argued that the example of the apostles here shows us that we should cast lots to appoint our serving brethren. However I do not feel that this follows.

1 We are not replacing a person who has to be replaced to fulfil a pattern set by Jesus
2 The casting of lots in this case was between two who had clearly equal qualities

As we eagerly await the return of our Lord from heaven (v.11), we should continue in unity of hope and purpose (v.14).  We should use our energy to live each day as if it were the last (Matt 6:34) rather than trying to pinpoint times or dates from prophecy (v.7; Matt 24:42).  

V.8 In the state the disciples were in at that time, knowing little of the Divine Plan and Purpose, it was very essential for them to have the Holy Spirit. This would give them power which was contained in nine spiritual gifts. These are detailed by Paul in 1Cor 12:8-10. The power which such gifts would give them would be great. They would be able to use this power at will, but it appears that Peter was very conscious of his imperfection and often sought the Divine Blessing in prayer before using the Power. Jesus told the disciples that "the Holy Spirit would  bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you."  John 14:26

1:15  In speaking of the disciples as ‘names’ we see an application of Isa 56:5 where people will be given a name.

V.18 "reward of iniquity" A reward of death, and a return to the earth. There is here an undersigned coincidence here, and it shows Luke's accuracy and attention to detail. Peter uses this expression during this address, which has been recorded for us. Years later we find Peter using it again; "reward of unrighteousness" (2Pet 2:13) and again in V.18 "wages of unrighteousness"

Left all alone

When Jesus left the disciples after 40 days, a great feeling of loneliness and isolation must have crept over them. The feeling I get from v12-13 is that they stole quietly back into the city, and went to a private upper room. There it says they "continued with one accord in prayer". That's a wonderful picture of them taking comfort in their unity. Here they kept the Lord among them in prayer and by constant reference to him. They would have discussed what he had told them over the last 40 days, and no doubt their hearts had burned within them (Luke 24:32).

An impossible commission

But there was a sadness and unease among them. Jesus had gone, rather without warning, whilst they had hoped he would set up the Kingdom of Israel (v6). This was why Jesus had promised them a "comforter". His purpose with them had not yet fully sunk in, having only just got to grips with him rising from the dead. There may have been fear too of the enormity of what Jesus seemed to be asking them. He had asked them to speak of him throughout the world, and through persecution and trial and opposition. They knew only too well how fierce the Jewish leaders could become when provoked. Did they have to lay their lives on the line as Jesus had done?

And so we come to a vivid picture of our own life in the assembly of those waiting for Jesus. We have a job to do, but so often we feel so helpless, insecure, and afraid that we find ourselves just gathering together and speaking of Jesus, and waiting. But this is precisely what we should do. Jesus had commanded his followers to remain together in Jerusalem, and he had commanded them to Love one another. When the time came it was he who provided them with the wherewithal to preach. He who moved events to cause them to carry it throughout the world. He who comforted them through it. And he who provided them with the words to say.

Jesus is responsible

Sometimes we can forget that it is Jesus who is responsible both for us, and for the tasks we will carry out in his name. We should take courage and believe that, in his good time, he will provide us each with the wherewithal to do what he asks of us. We don't always know how he will do this, or when, and likely it will be on a small scale. But this we do know, that in the meantime we should gather together and wait for him.

Acts 1:18-19 It is possible that Luke in this passage, and Matthew in Matt 27:3-10 are talking about different fields, even though the nickname for them was the same. In Matthew the priests buy the field, with the 30 pieces of silver, and the purpose is as a burial place for gentiles. In Acts, we are told that Judas bought the field with the reward of his iniquity and that he committed suicide there. Perhaps the reward of his iniquity is linked to John 12:6 where we are told that he was a thief. Perhaps he invested his takings in real estate. So the 1st field is so named because it was bought with blood money, and the 2nd because of the death that occurred there. Perhaps the priests bought Judas' field after his death, (as they may not have had time to spend the 30 pieces of silver right away), and used it for a burial place for gentiles, as it was fit for no other purpose.

1:3 I find it difficult to imagine what it must have been like to spend time talking to a person who had been dead and was now alive forever. But this was the experience of the disciples. They were truly blessed by that experience However there is also a blessing for those who have not had that experience – John 20:29

Luke now commences his second letter to Theophilus. He has a wonderful story to tell of how the Word was preached “in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:8). It’s interesting that Jesus had chosen 12 disciples. Why? Probably because there were 12 tribes of Israel, and this new Christian gospel was based on the promises to Abraham. Peter and the others now pray, and think it appropriate to elect a 12th man, to replace the evil Judas Iscariot, and God chooses Matthias. But we don’t hear anything further about him.

Matt 27:5 records simply that Judas hanged himself. Here in v.18 a more graphic description of Judas' demise is given. Judas, it appears, botched his own hanging. Probably the rope gave way sending him crashing down.

1:7     Just as it was not for the disciples to know ‘the times and the seasons’ we do not need to know them either. Our hope is not based upon the nearness of Jesus’ return even though this is an important element of our hope. It is based on the fact that God raised Jesus from the dead and forgiveness of sins is available through him. Notice, as you read through Acts, how often the resurrection is mentioned.

Luke is clearly the writer of acts and the companion of Paul in the missionary field. His reference to the former treatise to his friend, or patron, or student Theophilus is, of course, Luke’s Gospel writings.

V.11  records that Jesus ascended into heaven and promises that He will return.  Moreover, it records that the manner of return will be the same as the ascension.  The Lord ascended from a place near Bethany, on the side of the Mount of Olives away from Jerusalem (Luke 24:50; John 11:18): not from the top of the Mount of Olives as some suppose.  His ascension was a private affair which could not be seen by those in Jerusalem. Likewise, His return will be surreptitious.  He will gather His people (spiritual Israel), and after judgement, He will manifest Himself on the Mount of Olives, with great fanfare, to save natural Israel (Zech 14:3,4).

If you would like a brief outline of Jesus' return and subsequent events, please e-mail me for Return of Jesus and End-time Prophecy.

1:1 We met ‘Theophilus’ in Luke 1:3 where he is called ‘most excellent ...’. This description is reserved for Roman dignitaries – Acts 23:26– so maybe by the time Paul sent Acts to him he had become a brother in Christ and so Luke did not feel the need to use the Roman title.

v 3-6 First Principles>Kingdom of God>Restored Israel to be God's Kingdom
When Israel is restored, it will be God's Kingdom Acts 1:3-6, Mic 4:7,8
First Principles>Kingdom of God
For more about the Kingdom of God, go to Gen 12:1

V.12 a Sabbath’s day journey is seven-and-one-half furlongs.  Josephus reckons that the Mount of Olives is but five furlongs from Jerusalem.  And so, Jesus’ ascension was on the down slope of the mountain away from Jerusalem. Bethany was fifteen furlongs from Jerusalem. But the region of Bethany began seven-and-one half furlongs from Jerusalem. The region of Bethphage also began seven-and one-half furlongs from Jerusalem.  It is where these two regions met that Jesus ascended into heaven.

v6 First Principles>Sure Mercies of David>Government
The disciples looked for a restoration of Israel
For more information about the Government of God's Kingdom, go to Matt 19:28

DEMOCRACY VERSES CASTING LOTS

Democracy rules! This modern and ungodly trend of decision making has even been picked up by the church. In my church decisions as to leaders, speakers and a number of other appointments are all made by popular vote. It appears that doing things the way the early disciples did - by casting lots - is leaving a little too much to chance!

Let's take a look at the prayer the apostles prayed before they chose the last apostle to take the place of Judas. "Then they prayed, 'Lord, you know everyone's heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen to take over this apostolic ministry which Judas left to go where he belongs.'" (Acts 1:24-25) The next thing the apostles did was to cast lots. (v.26)

My question is this: Which method of decision making leaves more to chance? Do we leave the decision to a multitude of people, many of whom have little knowledge of a character or an issue, and some who have no interest in what they are voting for at all? Do we leave the decision to people who can be bribed or swayed by something as simple as a persuasive speech? Or do we let God guide the decision knowing that he alone knows everyone's hearts, can see their circumstances and knows the end from the beginning?

Casting lots has the guidance of God.

Democracy is a gamble.

1:6 A Jew would understand that the kingdom of God had existed on the earth before. A roman official probably would not appreciate the significance of that so Luke advises Theophilus of this element of the apostles’ expectations by recounting one of the many things they must have said to Jesus after the resurrection.

1:3   The fact that Jesus talked to the disciples about ;the kingdom of God’ as part of his instruction to them highlights the central nature of this doctrine to any preaching that is undertaken.

LET US PRAY

The disciples of Jesus must have all been at a bit of a loose end. Jesus had told them to stay in Jerusalem, and then, right before their eyes, he had been taken into heaven. So what could they do? No doubt if they had been allowed to go home, they would have gone fishing or done the usual sorts of things they used to do. But here they were stuck in Jerusalem without their leader, not sad because he was dead, rather joyful because he was alive, and wondering what to do.

What would we do if we were in the same situation? What about if you suddenly found yourself out of work for a period of time, how would you fill your day? If you were travelling and found yourself stuck at an airport waiting indefinitely for fog to lift, ash to clear, or a terrorist threat to reach its outcome, what would you do?

This is what the disciples did: "Then they returned to Jerusalem from the hill called the Mount of Olives ... When the arrived, they went upstairs to the room where they were staying ... They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women." (Acts 1:12-14) When the disciples were at a lose end, they spent time in prayer. To what better use could we put our time?

So next time we feel bored, frustrated that we have been held up, or just have time on our hands, let us pray.

1:3     The word ‘passion’ <3958> is regularly translated ‘suffer’ in the New Testament. However we should conclude that the word is used here in Acts to speak of the whole of the time from Jesus being crucified to his resurrection as he couldn’t show himself alive whilst he was in the tomb. Maybe this is why the translators chose not to translate the word as ‘suffer’ as they have done elsewhere.

1:11        The words of the angels are the most clear and unambiguous statement that Jesus will return to the earth.  We maybe are so familiar with the words that we fail to see their importance to the disciples who would not have expected him to go to heaven in the first place.

Acts 1:7; 1Thess 5:1

“And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.”  (cf. Dan 2:21)

“BUT of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.”

Jesus and Paul spoke of the same era, an era that marks the time of the end. “Times” is the Greek word, chronos, Strong's <5550>, and speaks of “a space of time… interval of time.” “Seasons” is the Greek word, kairos, Strong's <2540>, and speaks of “an occasion, i.e. set or proper time.”

Each season initiates another season, and as we approach closer to the set time, we are able to determine the interval of time we are in - that the set season for Christ’s return is rapidly approaching.

Times and seasons refer to the overall era of time, which makes up multiple prophetic seasons. No prophecy, however, concerning the nation of Israel could be fulfilled since 70 A.D. until Israel became a nation again on May 14-15, 1948. This was a prophetic season. Israel re-capturing Jerusalem and making it their capital in 1967 was a prophetic season, and both are vital and integral parts of fulfilled prophecies for the end times.

A generation ends at the death of an individual, or at the death of those individuals who are living at about the same time. It is not about figures, but about the fig-tree generation, or group of people that witnessed the fulfillment of these prophetic seasons. Not everyone from this generation will die, but there will be some who witness the return of Christ (Matt 24:32-34; Mark 13:28-30; Luke 21:29-32).

With the unfolding of the end times prophetic scenario witnessed daily in the news, the prophetic puzzle is now almost complete.

Acts 1:18,19.

1:13   It seems strange to speak of the disciples as “the number of the names” – however it echoes the numbering of Israel who were to enter into the land of Israel – Num 26:53

1:14    ‘with the women’ shows that those who ministered unto Jesus’ needs during his ministry continued after his resurrection – hardly surprising but we are given this information which shows their ongoing commitment to service.  Their service extended to Jesus’ followers and as such is an example to us that we should serve the needs of our brethren and sisters and so serve him – Matt 25:40

1:1       Notice that Luke wrote about what Jesus both did and taught. Saying the right things is not that difficult. However doing the right thing as well is far more difficult. We do well to register that living the gospel is more than just knowing what Jesus said.

1:19    That the field was known locally by all the people further supports the historicity of the details of the death and resurrection of Jesus.

1:11     There are three times in Acts when specific mention is made of the disciples’ Galilean origins. This is the first. The second is in 2:7 and the third is in   13:31. These references, almost casually, make reference to the disciples’ lack of religious credentials.

1:18       this verse contains two quotations about Balaam

Rewards of iniquity        Num 22:7

Headlong                        Num 22:32

Perverse in the Balaam account could equally be translated “headlong” as the KJV margin indicates.

Acts 1:6

“… Lord, will thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?”

COLONIZATION NOT RESTITUTION

“THE colonization of Judea by the Jews under the protection of a Gentile government is neither ‘restitution,’ nor ‘regeneration.’ Nothing short of a national establishment in the land, under Messiah and his brethren, constitutes either of them in a scriptural sense. The settlement of a colony there has no more to do with restitution than Meshullam’s farming in Artor’s valley. Restitution is not simply a return of the race, but the setting up again of institutions that once existed there—the restitution or restoration of the Kingdom again to the Twelve Tribes; this is the re-institution, or restitution spoken of by all the prophets from Moses to the revealer of the apocalypse to John.

No Gentile powers can accomplish this, though aided by all the Jews on earth: for the Restored Kingdom exists under an amended Mosaic code, whose amendation (diorthrosis) can only be defined, administered, and adapted to the exigencies of the world, by the King of Israel himself, and his associate kings and priests … I would have no delay; but I am compelled to confess that there will yet be some … The working out of the approaching judgment upon principles illustrated in God’s past dealings with nations and empires, requires time … Let us not therefore be impatient of arguments that do not confirm us in our wishes, ‘Thy will, O Lord, not mine be done!’ should be pre-eminently the disposition of the student of the prophetic word. I see a war among the powers resulting from an antagonism to French ambition, which must precede the battle of Armageddon; the Great City has also to be divided into three parts; and the feet of Nebuchadnezzar’s image have to be fashioned into shape out of materials that exist. This requires time, and during this time the colony is forming and prospering to tempt the spoiler to his destruction by the stone power, on the mountains of Israel.”

Brother Dr. John Thomas, Herald of the Kingdom and Age to Come, 1852, p. 199

Regarding the comparison Brother Thomas made about Meshullam’s farming in Artor’s valley, the best I can figure out is Meshullam, the son of Zadok and father of Hilkiah (1Chron 9:11; Neh 11:11), who supported Ezra in expounding the law to the people (Neh 8:4), a righteous and holy man, would not be found farming on a non-existent, mythical, blood thirsty, immortal vampire Lord’s valley - his hunting ground! In other words, colonization is no more a restitution than Meshullam farming in an evil Lord’s hunting ground. It is the real versus the unreal, and it is a myth to believe otherwise.

https://www.theguardian.com/books/2001/may/31/londonreviewofbooks/

1:16  Some would say that passages such as the Psalms which record personal feelings – such as David’s – show the human influence in inspiration. However Peter makes it clear that Whilst David “spoke” the words were God’s words. He gave David the words to say.

1:3 The phrase “he shewed himself alive” quotes Leviticus 16:10: “But the goat, on which the lot fell to be the scapegoat, shall be presented alive before Yahweh, to make an atonement with him, and to let him go for a scapegoat into the wilderness”. The scapegoat foreshadowed the risen Lord.

1:12 The mount is doubtless the mount of Olives though Acts calls is “Olivet”. In fact this is the only time outside the Old Testament that the mount is called “Olivet”. Is this because the Roman authorities – and by implication – Theophilus knew it as Olivet? Or are we being encouraged to reflect on David’s flight from Absalom when he went up ”Olivet” –2Sam 15:30

1:16 Some would say that passages such as the Psalms which record personal feelings – such as David’s – show the human influence in inspiration. However Peter makes it clear that Whilst David “spoke” the words were God’s words. He gave David the words to say.

1:16-26The way in which, as soon as Jesus had ascended to heaven, the matter of Judas’ replacement was addressed. Notice also that Peter appealed to scripture to explain Judas’ behaviour. The replacing of Judas was in accordance with what the Father required. It may even be that Jesus had instructed the disciples that they had to appoint a replacement for Judas who met clearly defined criteria.

1:6 Will you at this time restore the Kingdom to Israel?

Jehovah's Witnesses claim that God has no further interest or dealings with natural Israel. If that is true then the disciples' question and Jesus' reply make no sense. Jesus had been expounding details of the kingdom for nearly 6 weeks. Yet if the Jehovah's Witnesses are correct, the disciples were demonstrating complete  lack of understanding about the very basics of the subject of the kingdom by claiming a connection to natural Israel. Yet Jesus does not remonstrate with the disciples about the what of the kingdom - he just corrects them on the when.  Clearly, he endorsed the connection between the coming kingdom and natural Israel.

1:26 Having appointed Matthias we hear nothing of him again in the rest of the New Testament. However we should not assume that he “fell away” or that he was inactive. Many faithful followers of Jesus are very effective in the field of work for the lord that they do – but are not noticed by others.

We should not assume a fellow believer who seems inactive is not doing anything. Unless we know intimately their life we cannot tell and so should not judge negatively.

Acts 1:24  The disciples pray  “thou Lord that knowest the hearts. . .”  
“Lord”   Is this God or Jesus? 

This ‘phrase’ knowest the hearts is one Gk word, literally ‘heartknower’. It is used only twice in the N.T.  (Gk word (kardiognostes)
The second place is Acts 15:8 and identifies that it is God that knoweth the hearts.

There is also ‘prophetic or foreknown choosing’ evidenced by O.T. scriptures, showing that it is Godgoverning the selection of the apostles and the replacement for Judas, which is the topic of Acts 1:24

In choosing the twelve God had already, with foreknowledge, assigned Judas to their category, as Jesus knew when he chose him. Jesus was aware of Judas’ character at the time of choosing; -   John 6:70 Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?

But it was God’s prophetic word (See Psa 41:9//John 13:18 shown below)

Psalm 41:9 Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me. 
John 13:18 I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled, He that eateth bread with me hath lifted up his heel against me.

Psalm 109 further demonstrates God as the knower of hearts, specifically in relation to Judas’ character, before his birth, and that the events of Acts 1:20 had already been defined by God in His prophetic foreknowledge. It is these Psalms that are recalled in appointing a successor to Judas.
Psalm 109:8 Let his days be few; and let another take his office.
Acts 1:20 For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his overseer [‘office’] let another take.
Psalm 69:25 Let their habitation be desolate; and let none dwell in their tents. 
Psalm 69:22 Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap.

Further in Acts 4, after their appearance before the Council, In their prayer to God, Peter, John and their own company, reference Psalm 2 evidencing God’s foreknowledge of events to occur years later.

and they make another key statement in v28.

Acts 4:24-28   ²⁴ And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is:  

²⁵ Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things?  ²⁶ The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, (God) and against his Christ.

²⁷ For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together,  ²⁸ For to do whatsoever thy hand and thycounsel determined before to be done.

There is also a timing issue in Acts 1:24 to be considered, post ascension, indicating it is God, not Jesus that is being addressed.

By now the disciples had already received Jesus' teaching regarding the new way of making request directly to the Father "in my name" and not in prayer to Jesus. (John 16:23 ff).

So for them to be addressing Jesus directly in Acts 1, implies they either didn’t know of the new John 16 teaching, or knew it and were disobedient to it, or just disregarded it. Or that Lord in Acts 1:24 is God.