5 Messianic prophecies for the Millennium

 Read Zechariah 2.

In a single night, God revealed to the prophet eight visions of the future.  Vision #3 is the subject of this entire chapter.  With each revelation the explanation is also presented.

Zechariah saw a man surveying the city of Jerusalem.  Presumably, this had to do with rebuilding the walls that the Babylonians tore down.  However, there is much more to the prophecy than the immediate return of the Jews from captivity and the rebuilding of Jerusalem.  God's own statements point to a yet future time.

"In that day" (v.11), here is what life will be like on earth.
 1. "I will be to her a wall of fire all around." (v.5a)
Jerusalem will not need a wall to protect it.  The LORD Himself will be her protector.  There is also the implication that the population and inclusive area of the city will then exceed the area of the traditional walls.

2. "I will be the glory in her midst." (v.5b)
The presence of God will not be limited to the Holy of Holies in the Temple.  But, His glory will fill the city.

3. "I will shake my hand over" "the nations who plundered you." (vv.8-9)
God sovereignly chose Abraham and his descendants and made unconditional promises to them.  The Jews are "the apple of his eye" and the focus of the LORD's love and attention.  He will execute appropriate judgments against all those who came against Israel and Judah.

4. "I come and will dwell in your midst." (vv.10-11)
These are words from the Messiah.  It is obvious that the details of the context here were not fulfilled in His first coming.  It is the second coming of Christ that will result in singing and rejoicing as "many nations shall join themselves to the LORD in that day."

5. "The LORD will inherit Judah as his portion in the holy land and will again choose Jerusalem." (v.12)
This is the only place the term "holy land" appears in the Bible.  The exact geographical location of what will be the center of the thousand-year reign of Christ on earth is without question in the Scriptures.

What should be our response?  Silence and awe as we consider what will take place in that day.
"Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away." (Luke 21:33)

 

O what a Night!

 Read Zechariah 1

In a single night, the LORD gave the prophet Zechariah eight visions of the future.  The purpose of these revelations met two very important needs.  First, the Jews needed hope.  For seventy years Judah lived in Babylonian exile.  Would they ever see their beloved promised land again?  Would God be faithful to the promises He made to Abraham?  The answers were all "Yes!"  And, as with many of the Old Testament prophecies, the more immediate events and the long-range future happenings are told as one.  Still today, we are living in between the fulfillment of many of things foretold in this book. 

Second, the people needed to get back to work on the Temple and complete the project.  Some 50,000 had been allowed to return to Jerusalem when the Medes and Persians conquered Babylon.  The reason was not to reestablish their kingdom but to rebuild the Temple.  Because of opposition the work stalled and the people became busy with their own lives.  After about sixteen years, God raised up Haggai and Zechariah to motivate the people.  While Haggai preached priorities, Zechariah spoke of the future, especially as it relates to the coming Messiah.

But no encouragement about God's work or His future plans would be of any benefit to them personally unless their hearts were right with Him.  So, before anything else, God issued a call for repentance.

God's anger and discipline of the nation was due to their sin.  "'Return to me', says the LORD of hosts, 'and I will return to you', says the LORD of hosts." (v.3).  Repentance is not only feeling sorry for one's sin and turning to God.  The same action must include a turning from "your evil ways and your evil deeds" (v.4a).  As mentioned in these opening verses, history proves the veracity of God's word.  His anger at their sin and the ensuing discipline were the responses of a loving LORD who desired to bless them.

There is no need to be confused as to the meaning of these visions.  Each is explained in the context.  This is "word of the LORD" (v.7).
Vision #1-A man on a red horse. (vv.7-17)
The omniscient God and His angels are on patrol throughout the entire earth.  With the seventy years of exile at an end and the Persian Empire experiencing peace, it provided a good opportunity for the Jews to go back home.  With that came God's "gracious and comforting words" (v.13).  The LORD was angry with those nations who had mistreated His people and at the same time had multiple blessings in store for the Jews.

Vision #2-Four horns and four craftsmen. (vv.18-21)
Specifically, God's anger was focused on the four Gentile powers that scattered Israel, exiled Judah, and destroyed Jerusalem (v.19). 

For today, we need not be discouraged by the evil in this world.  God sees, knows, controls what is happening.  His love, His word, and His plans for our lives are eternally secure in Christ.

 

4 encouragements to those who serve God

 

Read Haggai 2.

The nation had lived in exile for seventy years.  When the people saw the re-construction of the Temple, there were two strong reactions.  For those who were born in Babylon and only heard about the Temple, this was a glorious day.  But those who remembered Solomon's masterpiece wept.  This place would never be like it was.  Ezra 3:11-13 describes the scene.

This could have been a divisive moment of discouragement among the people and even could have potentially caused the work to suffer.  Would God be pleased that they could not replicate the original Temple's appearance?

So, God stepped in to give Haggai a series of encouraging messages.
1.  "Be strong...for I am with you...My Spirit remains in your midst...fear not." (vv.4-5)
As the LORD reminded Samuel, "...man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart." (1 Samuel 16:7)  God knew they lacked the resources to do what Solomon did.  Indeed, He is the owner of all resources (v.8).  Humans are only the managers of what the LORD allows us to have for a time.  Therefore, "...it is acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have" (2 Corinthians 8:12).

The most vital ingredient that determines corporate worship is not the beauty of the building but the presence of God in the place!

2. "The latter glory of this house shall be greater than the former." (vv.6-9)
God has a plan that is far greater than they could have ever imagined.  This is a promise of a still future Temple that will outdo what Solomon built.  In the Millennial Kingdom, God's glory will fill that Temple!  It will come after horrendous worldwide turmoil.  Twice in this chapter God promises to "shake" (literally to undulate) the heavens and the earth.  After waves of judgments during the Great Tribulation, as described in Revelation 6-19, Jesus will rule and reign from that future place.

3. "But from this day on I will bless you." (vv.10-19)
Two things prompted the blessings of God.  First, the people responded to the message of chapter one in making God's house a priority with their time and money.  Second, their sacrifices and offerings were clean, or holy, as it reflected a heart right with God.

4. "O Zerubbabel...I will make you a signet ring..." (vv.20-23)
Zerubbabel served God as the governor of Judah, overseeing the building of this temple.  The signet ring was an indication of royalty.  This man was a descendant of King David.  A part of his earthly reward is recorded in Matthew 1:13.  He is listed in the very lineage of Messiah!

The LORD takes note of our faithfulness and rewards those who serve Him.  "For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do." (Hebrews 6:10)

 

5 results when putting God First

 Read Haggai 1.

When the Medes and Persians conquered Babylonia, Cyrus became the ruler of the Empire.  In 2 Chronicles 36:22-23, he acknowledged that "the LORD God of heaven has given me all the kingdoms of the earth."  Then, he encouraged the captive Jews to return to their homeland and rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem.  About 50,000 people left under the leadership of Zerubbabel, the governor, Joshua, the High Priest, and some teaching priests led by Ezra.

As the work began, local opposition and political changes in the Empire resulted in a delay in completing the Temple.  The project sat idle for some fourteen years.  To motivate the people to get back to the reason God sent them there, the LORD delivered His messages through two writing prophets.  Zechariah spoke of finishing the Temple in preparation for the coming Messiah.  Haggai preached a short, sharp, direct message concerning their priorities.

God demands to be first and foremost in every area of life.  That requires each individual to know their assignment and why God placed them where they are at this point of time.  Haggai's message reveals that instead of putting God first in their use of time and money, they spent both on themselves.  This displeased God to the point of withholding His blessings and provisions for them (vv.9-11).

This is very similar to Malachi's writing concerning the obedience of tithing.  "Bring the full tithe into my storehouse, that there may be food in my house.  And thereby put me to the test, says the LORD of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.  I will rebuke the devourer for you, so that it will not destroy the fruits of your soil, and your vine in the field shall not fail to bear, says the LORD of Hosts."  (Malachi 3:10-11)

When the people heard the message, five things happened (vv.12-15).
1. They obeyed and went back to work on their priority assignment.
2. They feared the LORD and the potential consequences of disobeying Him.
3. God assured them of His personal presence.
4. God stirred up the spirit of (or gave energy to) all involved.
5. The project was underway.

Lesson learned:  God does not want our leftovers.  "Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce..." (Proverbs 3:9)  "...that in everything he might be preeminent." (Colossians 1:18c).

 

The cause and cure of God's coming Judgment

 Read Zephaniah 1.

The Holy Spirit revealed to Zephaniah a vision concerning "the day of the LORD."  The phrase is used 20 times in these 53 verses.  It refers to both the future judgment and the future blessings God has in store.  This prophecy majors on judgment.

Immediately, the message proclaims worldwide punishment on everything (vv.2-3).  Pointedly, Judah and the capital of Jerusalem will be among the targets.  This indicates that the prophecy blends the impending invasion by Babylon and the ultimate judgment of God on the earth.  Often, the prophets' visions of the events to come were joined and not separated by time, as is the actual case

The Apostle Peter wrote of the earth's judgment as still future.  "But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed." (2 Peter 3:10)

What is the root cause of such a horrific future?
"Because they sinned against the LORD" (v.17b).  It is the sin of "those who have turned back from following the LORD who do not seek the LORD or inquire of him."  Instead, people have turned away from Him to their own devices.  Verses 4-5 provide just a few examples: Baal worship, following idolatrous spiritual leaders, looking to the planets and stars for guidance, and the Ammonite god Milcom (Molech).

What is a common response to God's announced judgment?
"The LORD will not do good nor will he do ill." (v.12b)  In other words, they do not believe God cares about their beliefs or behaviors.  They willfully ignore the plain statements of God's words to them.  His warnings do not prompt them to change the spiritual direction of their lives.

Jesus taught the same messages of warning.
"The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all law-breakers, and throw them into the fiery furnace.  In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." (Matthew 13:41-42)

"Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken." (Matthew 24:29)

What is the only hope?
"Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains of him." (John 3:36)

When our prayers are not answered as we Imagined

 Read Habakkuk 3.

The prophet wanted to know why God was not responding to the sin in Judah.  God answered by saying that He had prepared the Babylonians to come and mete out His discipline.  That was not what Habakkuk wanted to hear.  He presented his complaints to God and waited.  In chapter two God answered the prophet a second time in clear and no uncertain terms. 

God's powerful plan for Judah's captivity by a foreign nation scared Habakkuk.  His whole body trembled at God's words (3:16).  But, under the inspiration and movement of the Holy Spirit, Habakkuk wrote chapter three as a song of prayer.  It tells us what he learned and of his faith commitments as he faced the future.

1. Prayer Requests (v.2)
Though the title of this chapter is a prayer, there are only two requests:
-He asked that God display a refreshing of His people in the middle of this adversity.
-He asked that God display mercy during this time of discipline.

2. Powerful Reminders (vv.3-15)
-Who God is.  The LORD is God Almighty.  All nature and nations are in His control and do His bidding at His command.  As Israel witnessed in the Exodus, God needed no assistance in defeating the entire Egyptian army.  The same would be true of the Babylonians.
-Why God acts.  In verse 13, there are two reasons for His intervention.  First, He is preserving the nation of Israel.  This temporary discipline was part of His long-range plan of fulfilling the unconditional covenant made with Abraham and his descendants.
Second, He is preserving the lineage of the Messiah who will ultimately redeem His people and restore them to world prominence when He rules and reigns from Jerusalem.

3. Praise Commitments (vv.16-19)
Again, the true awesomeness of God shook Habakkuk emotionally and physically.  Spiritually, however, the prophet was refreshed.  He announced two faith-commitments that changed his attitude and his life. 
-"Yet I will quietly wait for the day of trouble to come..."  He knew what would happen and his commitment was to not to panic or fret.  He could quietly wait because he also knew God was in charge.  His prayer from chapter one was being answered but not in the way he imagined.
-"Yet I will rejoice in the LORD..."  This is not an emotional celebration because it is a happy occasion, but this rejoicing is an act of the will.  It is a choice to trust God through tough times, knowing one is in the center of His will.  As Nehemiah encouraged the people, "And do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength." (Nehemiah 8:10b)

 

God's response to those who question Him

 Read Habakkuk 2.

The prophet complained and then tried to argue with God.  He appeared so confident in taking a stance and waited to see what the LORD would say to his logic.  God responded as forthrightly as possible.  "Write this down!," He ordered, so it could be clearly communicated.

Having gained the prophet's attention and with pen in hand, God unfolded His plan to Habakkuk.  Indeed, the Babylonians were wicked.  They were greedy, evil, violent, pride-filled, given to drunkenness, and idolaters.  The LORD did not overlook one of their sins.  In His time, He will judge that empire.  But, in the meantime, God’s people needed some national discipline.

Three insights we all need to learn from verses 2-4:
1. God wants everyone to know what He has revealed.
"The vision" is the Word of God that He revealed and, therefore, is totally reliable and without error.  As the Apostle Peter explained, "...we did not follow cleverly devised myths...no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit" (2 Peter 2:16, 21).  We have in writing and, thankfully, in our own language exactly what God wants us to know. 

2. God acts on His time schedule, not ours.
He will not be late in carrying out His plans.  All will be fulfilled.  Those who love God need not be discouraged about the sin in this world and the difficulties in this life.  Solomon wrote: "He has made everything beautiful in its time" (Ecclesiastes 3:11)
 
3. Our response to God's plan and timing is to trust Him.
It may seem that the wicked get away with their sin and ungodly behaviors.  But those who know the LORD see beyond the current circumstances and look to the One who is control of all things.  He is worthy of our trust.  He is ever faithful.  In great contrast to the world around us, "the righteous shall live by his faith" (v.4).

The plan of God also looks forward to a day when every wrong will be made right.  In that day, when Jesus rules and reigns in the Millennial Kingdom, "the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD as the waters cover the sea" (v.14).  So, let the idolaters cease crying out to their made-up objects of worship and life-guidance, and stop complaining or questioning God.  The LORD is in control, "in his holy temple; let all the earth keep silence before him" (v.20).

 

Why doesn't God do something?

 Read Habakkuk 1.

This is the only book in the Bible where the prophet initiates the message.  Habakkuk was frustrated.  Everywhere he looked in Judah all he could see was sin and injustice.  He complained directly to God, "Why aren't you doing something about the sin in this nation?"  He falsely assumed that God was somehow idle or ignoring the blatant wrong-doing.

In verses 5-11, we have the response.  God had all along been preparing to activate His plan for Judah.  In verse 5, God explained why He did not reveal His intentions to Habakkuk.  The prophet would neither believe it, nor would he like it.  The LORD empowered the Babylonians to conquer the Assyrians.  With their rise to world power, Judah would be the next Babylonian target.  God's plan was to use that wicked, violent, ungodly empire to discipline His people.

As predicted, this was not what Habakkuk wanted to hear at all.  He reacted with what he thought were two strong, irrefutable arguments:
1. God is too holy to use sinners to accomplish His work. (v.13a)
2. Judah was more righteous than the Babylonians. (v.13b)
With that, the prophet seems to smugly believe that he had God cornered and in 2:1, he said, "I will take my stand" and wait to see how God will answer now.

Three insights for us to know about the sovereignty of God:
1. God is always active fulfilling His plans for individuals and nations.
"'I am the Alpha and Omega," says the Lord God, 'who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.'" (Revelation 1:8)  He eternally knows and controls the beginning and the end of all things.

2. God can use anyone to accomplish His will. 
"Surely the wrath of man shall praise you." (Psalm 76:10)

3. God’s decisions regarding His plans become tests of our faith.
If we could see the future, we probably would react a lot like Habakkuk.  There would be things we would not like or want to hear.  Trusting the steadfast love of God in the uncertainty of life and the hardships that come is the essence of living by faith.  God will teach the prophet this in the next chapter.  "But the righteous shall live by his faith." (Habakkuk 2:4b)

 

5 behaviors that brought God's Judgment

 Read Nahum 3.

Nineveh thought that their city was impenetrable.  The walls were high and wide.  Water surrounded the city, forming a natural barrier.  In addition, Assyrian soldiers were well-known for their fierce brutality.  Who would dare even try to conquer them?

Chapter three continues to describe the Babylonian assault on Nineveh with even more graphic detail.  The city walls were breached with a flood of their own water.  Babylonian attackers came upon them so quickly that the assailants tripped over the dead bodies as they advanced (v.3). 

Why did God inflict this punishment upon Assyria?
1. They were infamously cruel. (v.1a)
They did not merely conquer enemies.  They slaughtered them.  Thus, God referred to Nineveh as a bloody city.

2. They were full of lies. (v.1b)
The Assyrian Empire had been built on deceiving other nations in order to control and conquer them.

3. They plundered in excess. (v.1c)
In conquering, they stripped the cities and nations of all valuables, especially gold and silver.  Moreover, they excised enormous tax burdens to feed their greed.

4. They betrayed their neighbors with enticements. (v.4a)
God compared them to prostitutes.  They would do anything for selfish gain and control.  Their offer to aid and help others was a hook to reel them into their snare.

5. They practiced witchcraft and divinations. (v.4b)
In attempts to make decisions, to seek guidance, to gain success, and to know the future they committed themselves to doctrines of demons.  Charms, necromancy, astrology, various kinds of readings, and worship practices were all present in Nineveh.  God asked, "For upon whom has not come your unceasing evil?" (v.19c).

Their independent pride of power and wealth caused them to believe that no one, not even God Himself, could touch them.  But the LORD truly is Almighty.  He said he would shake them like fig trees with ripened fruit (v.12).  All Nineveh's defenses and security systems will fail.

Individuals can fall into the same pride-filled trap.  Ego and self-protection cause people to mistreat others, lie to others. use others for personal gain, live a lifestyle of deception, and turn to anything but God and His Word for life-guidance.  Every false way will eventually fall as sure as did Nineveh.

There is only one certain personal security in the entire universe.  Jesus promised, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16)

 

The lion's roar is no More

 Read Nahum 2.

God used the Assyrians to discipline the northern kingdom of Israel.  Now, about a hundred years later, it was Assyria in need of punishment.  The Holy Spirit revealed to the prophet Nahum the sights and sounds of the Babylonian attack on Nineveh in 612 B.C. about thirty plus years in advance.  The details are amazing, intense, and confirmed by archaeology.

What they did to others will be done to them.  They killed and scattered the northern tribes throughout their empire.  The Babylonians will kill and scatter them.  There will be no defense against the attackers.

In verses three and four, even the clothing of the soldiers, their shields, the chariots, and spears are all described.  So swift will be the battle that the destruction will come upon them like a torrential flood.  Indeed, the diggings around the site show two dams that the Babylonians may have built then breached, to overwhelm the city.

The once proud empire that referred to itself as a lion in the world, and often used the symbol of a lion, is mocked in verses ten through twelve.  "Where is the lions' den?"  Instead of roaring and devouring its prey, Nineveh became the hunted.  "Hearts melt and knees tremble; anguish is in all loins."

Babylon could take no credit.  God is in control.  He is working out His plans among the nations.  See these statements from the LORD to Nineveh in verse 13.
"I am against you."
"I will burn your chariots..."
"I will cut off your prey from the earth and your messengers shall no longer be heard."

Where is the hope for God's people?
In verse two, the LORD stated that He is relieving them of the Assyrian oppression and He promised to one day restore the "majesty of Jacob."  That full restoration has yet to take place.  The Millennial Kingdom and Israel's exaltation will be when Jesus comes again.

 

7 characteristics of the God of the Bible

 Read Nahum 1.

About a century had passed since the days of Jonah and the mass repentance of Nineveh.  At Nahum's writing, the Assyrians forgot those days of turning to God.  They resumed their pagan worship and cruel behaviors.  This time there would be no relenting of God's judgment.  The downfall of the Assyrian Empire, as predicted here, was swift and final.  The Babylonians come upon them like a torrential flood (v.8).  

Empires, world powers and their leaders come and go.  From a human stand point, it most often appears that the mightiest and strongest win.  "The survival of the fittest" or "might makes right" is the basis of evolutionary thought.  However, the God of the Bible claims sovereign control over His creation.  "But it is God who executes judgment, putting down one and lifting up another" (Psalm 75:7).  The Babylonians, unknowingly, were used to carry out the LORD's plans and His punishment against the Assyrians, exactly as predicted in this book.

Here we learn a few core elements regarding the character of God.
1. The LORD is jealous. (v.2a)
This characteristic is mentioned several times in Scripture.  It comes from the fact of God's ownership of all things.  He does not allow our spiritual affections to be given to others, or the misuse of His property without accountability.

2. The LORD is avenging. (v.2b)
Three times in this single verse we are told that He will mete out punishment and take revenge on those who rebel against Him.

3. The LORD is wrathful. (v.2c)
Wrath is a passionate outburst of anger.  The LORD "keeps wrath for his enemies."  Those who choose to ignore or rebel against God foolishly have no fear of Him.  "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." (Hebrews 10:31)

4. The LORD is slow to anger. (v.3a)
His patience has a purpose.  "The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance."
(2 Peter 3:9)

5. The LORD is great in power. (vv.3b-6)
He is omnipotent.  There is nothing He cannot do.  The entire creation responds to His presence and His word.

6. The LORD is good. (v.7a)
Everyone receives daily benefits of God’s goodness and grace.  All His works are designed to direct people to know, love and worship Him.  Even the times of hardship in this life are meant to help us to cast our dependence upon God's goodness and purpose.  (Romans 8:28-29)

7. The LORD is a stronghold in the day of trouble. (v.7b)
Faith is personal.  Faith in the LORD is a personal relationship, not a religion.  He knows those individuals who have turned to Him in faith.  Jesus said, "I am the good shepherd.  I know my own and my own know me." (John 10:14)

 

3 pillars of hope for the Future

 Read Micah 7.

"Woe is me!"
The time had come for Judah's punishment (v.4).  Everywhere Micah looked there was nothing but sin.  Leaders ran the country by bribery and violence.  No one could be trusted, not even one's own family members (v.6).  There was nothing good left; nothing worth saving.

"But as for me..."
However, through it all Micah maintained hope squarely based upon three eternal, unchangeable pillars of his faith.  His personal relationship with the LORD, the promises of God, and the character of God.

Personal Faith (vv.7-9)
Not everyone lived in rebellion against God.  Micah, as well as many others, stood in contrast to their culture with individual commitments to the LORD.
1. "I will look to the LORD."  When one keeps looking down, all they will see is sin and the negatives of life.  It is only when we look up to Him that we remember that God is in control.
2. "I will wait for the God of my salvation."  Since God is in control, only He can deliver.  Praying and waiting for God to respond is the true test of faith.
3. "When I fall down, I shall rise."  Failure is not final.  The godless culture may knock us down, but the fight is not over.
4. "When I sit in darkness, the LORD will be a light to me."  Often we cannot see or understand what is happening.  The confusion may overwhelm us as a darkness.  But God's word is "a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." (Psalm 119:105)

National Future (vv.10-17)
With the downfall of Israel and the looming destruction of Judah, the enemy nations taunted God's chosen people.  "Where is the LORD your God?"  And, the Jewish people surely were wondering what happened to the promises God made to Abraham and his descendants.  These punishments did not break God's promises in Genesis.  The people violated the covenant of Deuteronomy.  The scattering of the northern kingdom and the exile of the south were temporary.  The prophets consistently looked forward to the day when Messiah will rule in Jerusalem and the world come to worship Him.  This earthly, Millennial Kingdom was and is Israel's national hope.  Micah called to God, "Shepherd your people with your staff, and the flock of your inheritance."

Spiritual Foundations (vv.18-20)
"Who is a God like you?"  In closing the book, Micah provided some clear, crisp statements about the character of God.  No other faith system or religion can compare. 
1. The God of the Bible forgives sin.  There is not one alternative in the universe.
2. "He does not retain His anger forever."  Yes, the God of the Bible will discipline His people.  But it is for the purpose of discipleship and teaching how to obey Him.
3. "He delights in steadfast love." 
4. "He will again have compassion on us."  
As Jeremiah wrote, "The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." (Lamentations 3:22-23)

 

The response to God's judicial Indictments

 Read Micah 6.

As the third message begins, the courtroom metaphor returns.  The LORD delivered His indictments and challenges the people to "plead your case."

Next, God presented three pieces of historic evidence.
1. He redeemed them. (v.4a)
The nation lived in slavery and by blood, both of the Passover lamb and the death of Egypt's firstborn, God bought them and brought them out.

2. He sent them godly leaders. (v.4b)
The LORD called Moses, along with Aaron and Miriam, to provide His word and His worship.

3. He provided for them. (v.5)
He protected them from those who wanted to curse His people.  They saw miracle after miracle as they traveled to the Promised Land.

How should the accused respond?  (vv.6-8)

The nation had focused on outward rituals of religiosity both at the Temple and in worshiping false gods for life-guidance.  Micah offered several exaggerated statements of hypothetical sacrifices to pay for their sin.  True, without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness (Hebrews 9:22).    Those outward sacrifices only had value when they came from a heart that was personally in right relationship with the LORD.  But none of these is what God had already told them to do (v.8a). 

Micah 6:8 is, perhaps, the second most quoted verse in the book, after 5:21.  It refers back to God's previous instructions in the Law, such as Deuteronomy 10:12-"And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you, but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways and to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul."

Here is the corollary from Jesus: "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.  This is the great and first commandment.  And a second is like it; You shall love your neighbor as yourself.  On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets." (Matthew 22:37-40). 

Our personal relationship with Jesus will determine how we treat people.

As Bill Gaither wrote, "It's not that complicated."

 

6 prophetic statements identifying the Messiah

 Read Micah 5.

The southern kingdom of Judah faced enormous stress from the impending invasion of the Assyrians.  However, Micah 4:10 added to their misery by prophesying that, when the Assyrians are through, the Babylonians will take Judah into exile. 

Is there any hope?  What about God's promises to Abraham and his descendants?

To finish his second message, Micah returned to the theme of the coming Messiah.  As in many of the prophecies in the Old Testament, their vision was one.  They did not see the first coming separate from the events of Messiah's second coming.  The New Testament carefully and completely affirms the identity of the promised Messiah is no one else but Jesus.

1. He will be born in Bethlehem Ephrathah. (v.2a)
This is where King David had been born some five hundred years previously.  Now, another leader of Israel will be born in this city, just a few miles from Jerusalem.  The angel announced to the shepherds, "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." (Luke 2:11)

2. He will be born a clan of Judah. (v.2b)
The royal lineage must come through the family of David, of the tribe of Judah.
"The book of genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham." (Matthew 1:1)

3. He will "come forth" from God, the Father. (v.2c)
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." (John 1:1)  "For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me." (John 6:38)

4. He will be ruler in Israel. (v.2d)
There is no way to spiritualize this statement.  A literal rule was what the Jews expected of Messiah in Jesus' day and what the disciples asked about just before the Ascension (Acts 1:6).  Indeed, when Jesus returns, He will rule the world from the throne of His father David and "the government shall be upon his shoulders." (Isaiah 9:6)

5. He is the eternal God. (v.2e)
The Apostle John quoted Jesus: "'I am the Alpha and the Omega,' says the Lord God, 'who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.'" (Revelation 1:8)

6. He will shepherd His people. (v.4)
"I am the good shepherd.  I know my own and my own know me." (John 10:14)

The results for the regathered Jews (v.3) will be personal security and international peace (v.4).  There will be a cleansing of all forms of demonic and man-made faith systems (vv.12-15).

"Jesus shall reign where'er the sun
Does his successive journey's run;
His kingdom spread from shore to shore,
Till moons shall wax and wane no more."
-Isaac Watts

 

9 prophecies for the latter day Saints

 Read Micah 4.

In the midst of all the bad news about coming judgment, the LORD provided a message of hope for the future.  Though the nation lived in sinful rebellion during Micah's day, all God's promises to the Jews will ultimately be fulfilled.  When?  "In the latter days."  Reading the descriptions of what those "latter days" will look like, it becomes immediately obvious that such a time has not happened yet.  These prophecies are still ahead.  So many statements in Micah replicate the prophecies of Isaiah.

1. There will be a Temple. (v.1a)
The historic site for the Temple and the only location for the new one is where the Dome of the Rock stands today.

2. Gentiles will be coming to it also. (v.2)
"and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed." (Genesis 12:3)

3. They will come for instruction. (v.2)
There is no substitute for learning the word of God.  During this day and age we have a Bible to study in order know exactly what God has said.  But then there will be the added feature of instruction from Jesus Himself.

4. They will come for application. (v.2)
Knowing God's word is not enough.  What pleases Him is when people put His word into practice.

5. The location will be in Jerusalem. (vv.2 and 8)
There can be no spiritualizing this when the Scriptures provide exact geographical information.  No longer despised among the nations, this will be a place of international prominence and oversight of the world.

6. The LORD will make international decisions. (v.3)
"and the government shall be upon his shoulder..." (Isaiah 9:6)

7. The result of His decisions will bring a time of international peace. (v.3)
The "Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace". (Isaiah 9:6)  Note the fulfillment of beating swords into plows and the end of war is not the result of negotiations between nations.  World peace will come when Jesus reigns from Jerusalem.

8. People will live securely. (v.4)
With no wars, there will be no fear.

9. The Jews will live for Jesus. (v.5)
Finally, Paul's comment of Isaiah will come true.  "And in this way all Israel will be saved." (Romans 11:26)

 

3 indicators of those who speak for God

 Read Micah 3.

The bottleneck is always at the top.  As Micah begins to deliver the second message from God, he names three specific types of national leaders that have caused the problems.

Corrupt Rulers.  (vv.1-4)
Their charge was to protect and serve the people in government and judicial decisions.  The lawbreaker should experience the consequences and the victims receive just reparations.  Instead, rulings were made according to bribes (vv.9-11a).  This robbed the people who could not afford the pay-off and left victims worse off.  In short, the national leaders treated the people as their prey.  When finished, there was nothing left.

The predicted result was a time of accountability for their sins.  Babylon would conquer Jerusalem and carry the Jews into captivity.  Then, they would pray and plead with God, but it will be too late.  God's judgment is based upon His unchanging truth, not on a bribe.

False Prophets. (vv.5-7)
While God's prophets tried to call the nation to repent of their sin and coming judgment, the phonies preached counter messages of "you are okay," "God is not going to punish us," and "peace".  The false prophets never heard from God.  They made up their messages, preaching what people wanted to hear, and said what they were paid to say (v.11c).

They spoke out of their own spiritual darkness.  God provided no spiritual wisdom or His truth to them.  As a result, their prayers also would not be heard.  In the day when their false messages proved untrue, there would be nothing for them but disgrace and shame.

Ungodly Priests. (v.11b)
In this brief mention, it is clear that these men loved the robes, the rituals, and religious trappings of the Temple.  But they lacked a heart for God.  Instead of serving the people in their worship and sacrifices, they were only there for themselves and taking from the people.

Here is the result of the sins of all three of these national leaders: "Therefore because of you Zion shall be plowed as a field; Jerusalem shall become a heap of ruins." (v.12)

But there is a fourth type of leader in the nation doing the work of God with a whole-heart.
God's Prophets (v.8)
Micah was not alone.  The LORD had many others speaking on His behalf.  What characterized the type of people who genuinely served God?
1. "filled with power, with the Spirit of the LORD"
No one can be effective for God without the empowering of the Holy Spirit.
"But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." (Acts 1:8)

2. "and justice and might"
The message was not his but God's word.  It was not his judgment but the consequences of their sin against God.  And, Almighty God is more than capable of delivering on what He says.  Therefore, the true preacher's ministry is not personality driven but always points people to the LORD. 

3. "to declare to Jacob his transgression and to Israel his sin."
One indicator of a false teacher is that they do not preach against specific sins.  Not so with God's preachers.  They are willing to stand on the unchanging truth of what God has said and offer hope through repentance and faith in the LORD.

 

5 statements of Jesus regarding the use of Authority

 Read Micah 2.

A disgraced leader finally was forced to admit his immorality, cover up, and lying.  When he spoke to the nation, he said he did it for "the worst possible motives--because I could." 

The LORD takes very seriously those who abuse their power and influence over others.  Leaders in Judah used their God-given wealth and position to greedily oppress and take advantage of the people.  Their sins included seizing property (v.2) and separating parents from their children (v.9).  At the root was their sin of pride (v.3).  They foolishly thought that they could do whatever they wanted and get away with it.

Second to the rich and powerful were the abusive influences of ungodly religious leaders.  While the prophets of God preached repentance of sin, the false teachers responded with "do not preach" (v.6).  They countered by saying that God would not punish His people and He would not take them from the land He promised to them.  They tried to dupe the people with their messages of peace, prosperity, and partying.  "I will preach to you of wine and strong drink" (v.11).  The people surrounded themselves with those who spoke what they wanted to hear rather than the truth. 

Meanwhile, God's judgment was coming upon a people who were unprepared.  "It will be a time of disaster" (v.3b).

Jesus had much to say about authority and the proper use of power.
1. Jesus is the source of all power.
"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me." (Matthew 28:18)
2. Jesus is the example of how to use authority.
"...even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many."(Matthew 20:28)
3. Jesus forbids the abuse of power.
"You know that the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them.  It shall not be so among you.  But whoever would be great among you must be your servant." (Matthew 20:25-27)
4. Jesus gives authority for opportunities to serve and protect others.
"Let every person be subject to the governing authorities.  For there is no authority except from God." (Romans 13:1)
5. Jesus will hold each individual accountable for what He gave them.
"Everyone to whom much is given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more." (Luke 12:48)

 

Crying in Court

 Read Micah 1.

The prophet Micah lived in Judah and wrote at about the same time as Isaiah.  His book is comprised of three messages of a legal case against God's people.  Though the impact caused him to deeply grieve over the judgment to come, the content did not originate from him.  This is "the word of the LORD" (v.1).  Micah only delivered what God said.

As the courtroom assembles, all people of the earth are called to listen to the case.  God is not only the judge, but He rises in verse two to be the witness against the accused.  In verses three and four, the All-powerful, Almighty God steps forward.  There will be no rebuttal witnesses and no defense.  The basis for the complaint against the defendants is based upon the Mosaic Covenant found in Deuteronomy 27-28.  If the people obeyed the LORD, they would be allowed to enjoy the benefits of God's promises to Abraham, including the Promised Land.  If they disobeyed, those blessings would be withheld and the nation would experience God's punishment.

First on trial was the northern kingdom of Israel.  Their ungodly leadership and rebellion against the LORD is well documented.  The capital of Samaria would be crushed, along with all the structures and symbols of their false worship.  The land will be cleansed of their idols and temples used to practice religious prostitution.  God used the Assyrian army to fulfill this prophecy in 722 B.C.

Second to face prosecution was the southern kingdom of Judah.  While Jerusalem maintained worship of God at the Temple, their leadership and national obedience proved to be hit and miss.  Judah is accused of acting like its rebellious neighbor.  Again, the Assyrians will carry-out God's initial punishment against Judah.  The "conqueror" in verse 15 refers to the Assyrian king Sennacherib.

Such a message greatly affected Micah emotionally.  "For this I will lament and wail; I will go stripped and naked.  For her wound is incurable, and it has come to Judah." (vv.8-9). Centuries later, the Apostle Paul expressed similar grief over the spiritual condition of the Jews.  "...I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart.  For I could wish that I myself were accursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brothers, my kinsmen according to the flesh." (Romans 9:2-3)

Who are those people for whom we weep and pray for because they do not know the Savior?

 

 

5 reasons to be mad at God

 Read Jonah 4.

Jonah became exceedingly angry.  He submitted to God's assignment.  He preached a message of eight words.  The entire city of Nineveh repented and put their faith in the LORD God.  After one of the greatest times of ministry results in history, Jonah was so distraught he wanted to curl up and die.

Why?  The Assyrians were Israel's enemies.  He wanted God to wipe them out.  Jonah knew all along that if he went to Nineveh and warned them, they would respond and God would be gracious to them (4:2).  God did not do what Jonah wanted done, so he sat pouting, mad at God.

In verse 2, Jonah gave five reasons for his anger.  Each of them relates to the LORD's character.
1. God is gracious.
Grace is getting what we do not deserve.  The Assyrians were so evil.  Jonah was correct.  They deserved to be destroyed.  But when they heard God's message, they turned to Him in hope of deliverance from His judgment.  Jonah expected God to be gracious to him but not to those sinners over there.

2. God is merciful.
Mercy is not getting what we do deserve.  When the Assyrians fasted, prayed, and turned from their sin, God showed compassion toward them.  Jonah lacked any pity for these people (v.11).

3. God is slow to anger.
If it were not for the patience of God, we would all be gone at our first sin.  "The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance." (2 Peter 3:9)

4. God is loving.
He abounds in love.  His love is steadfast or faithful all the time.  This is difficult to hold on to when things do not go the way one expected or wanted.  It is easy to bask in the love of God when life goes well.  But can we bask in that same love if life does not turn out the way we planned?  His love is over all His works.

5. God is tenderhearted.
God is not relentless in meting out punishment for sin.  His grace, mercy, patience, and love are shown in His willingness to relent and demonstrate compassion on those who respond to His offer of forgiveness.

Jonah cared more about himself, his reputation and his comfort, than he did about the eternal destiny of these people.  The question everyone must answer before God is, "How much do I care about the eternal future of the people around me?"

 

God gives second Chances

 Read Jonah 3.

Is there anyone who has not felt at some time that they ruined everything; that it was all over; that there was no hope of recovery?  Here is a wonderful example of how God's forgiveness includes restoration. 

 God did not change His mind, or His plans, or His assignment for Jonah.  What did change was Jonah.  When the prophet changed his heart, God changed his circumstances.  Then, Jonah received another opportunity to obey the LORD.  Indeed, in this life, God does give second chances.

 The vast city of Nineveh was the capital of the Assyrian Empire.  Depending upon the exact meaning of chapter four and verse eleven, population estimates range from 120,000 to as high as 600,000.  The Assyrians were well-known for their evil, violence and cruelty.  As enemies of Israel, Jonah would have preferred that God destroy them rather than minister to them.  But here he was, reluctantly preaching an eight word message of coming judgment.  Would they kill him for saying this or simply ignore him?  No one could have imagined the results.

In a ground-swell of a spiritual movement, people began repenting of their sin.  When the king heard of it, he issued a royal decree for everyone (including the animals) to show outward signs of mourning and fasting.  Moreover, he ordered all the citizens to cry out to God for mercy and turn from their sin.  To this day, there is no historical match what took place.  Dr. Howard Hendricks referred to this chapter as "the world's greatest evangelistic rally held by the world's worst evangelist."

The people of Nineveh were condemned.  God did not change.  They did.  Every believer in Jesus has an assigned message.  It is not limited to a single city or a specific time.  It carries a weight far beyond the matters of life and death.  "Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him" (John 3:36).  All are condemned already.  The good news we share is that Jesus offers deliverance from eternal judgment and a personal relationship with the LORD Himself.

 

How can a God of love allow This?

 Read Jonah 2.

How many people, when under great pressure and awful dilemmas beyond their control, have questioned God's love and even His existence?  Sometimes hurting people will choose to rebel and forsake their faith.  But this chapter gives us great insights for an alternative view.

To say that Jonah found himself in a distressful situation grossly understates the problem.  It is one of the most famous incidents in the Bible.  The prophet rebelled against God's assignment to go to Nineveh and foolishly thought he could run away.  But the God of heaven is personally committed to each individual.  He loves us so much that He will only allow a person to go so far and then He will intervene.  The intervention can be painful.

When Jonah did not drown and he did not die in the belly of the great fish, he realized that God miraculously preserved his life.  This is a wonderful illustration of God's grace.  Grace is getting what we do not deserve.  Not only was he alive, but the distress brought him to repentance of his sin of disobedience.  Though human commitments to God, to marriage, to children, to employment and other relationships may fail, the LORD's commitments are sure and certain.

1. God proves His commitment to us by controlling our circumstances. (1:17)
"And the LORD appointed a great fish..."  It was not an accident that Jonah was swallowed up.  God was in control and prepared for this moment.

2. God proves His commitment to us by answering our prayers. (2:1)
"I called out to the LORD, out of my distress, and he answered me."  The answer was not what Jonah original desired, but the distress caused him to submit to God's will for his life.

3. God proves His commitment to us by restoring our fellowship with Him. (2:7)
"When my life was fainting away, I remembered the LORD, and my prayer came to you, into your holy temple."

4. God proves His commitment to us by providing His way of deliverance. (2:10)
When Jonah changed his mind and heart toward God, the LORD changed Jonah's circumstances.  The reason God delivered him was so Jonah could get back to work on God's assignment.

Any other pursuit in life will ultimately prove to be empty and worthless.
"Those who pay regard to vain idols forsake their hope of steadfast love.  But I with the voice of thanksgiving will sacrifice to you; what I have vowed I will pay.  Salvation belongs to the LORD!" (vv.8-9)

 

6 insights for those who run from God

 Read Jonah 1.

Nineveh was the capital city of the Assyrian Empire.  But as great as their city was, so was their evil.  The Assyrians became a growing threat to the northern kingdom of Israel and God wanted to eventually use them to discipline His people.  Jonah rightly feared the Assyrians and, apparently, also knew of God's plan (see 4:2).  Jonah's preference would have been for God to destroy Nineveh.

When the LORD said, "Go!" Jonah said, "No!"  Instead of trekking 500 miles northeast to his assignment, the prophet booked passage on a ship to Spain in the opposite direction.  Alton Fannin wrote an insightful outline for this chapter explaining what happens when a person tries to run from God (Proclaim, 1987).  I have embellished it somewhat here.

1. When a person runs from God, he has heard from God. (vv.1-2)
"For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and marrow, discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." (Hebrews 4:12)

2. When a person runs from God, he believes he can escape from God. (v.3)
"Where shall I go from your Spirit?  Or where shall I flee from your presence?  If I ascend to heaven, you are there!  If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there!" (Psalm 139:7-8)

3. When a person runs from God, everyone pays for it. (vv.3-5)
"For none of us lives to himself, and none of us dies to himself." (Romans 14:7)

4. When a person runs from God, he sleeps while others perish. (v.5)
"Wake up from your drunken stupor, as is right, and do not go on sinning.  For some have no knowledge of God.  I say this to your shame." (1 Corinthians 15:34)

5. When a person runs from God, he confuses unbelievers. (vv.6-9)
"And he said to all, 'If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.'" (Luke 9:23)

6. When a person runs from God, he loses respect from both sides. (vv.10-16)
"And the Lord turned and looked at Peter.  And Peter remembered the saying of the Lord, how he had said to him, 'Before the rooster crows today, you will deny me three times.'  And he went out and wept bitterly." (Luke 22:61-62)

Instead of running from God, He wants us to...
"Come" (Matthew 11:28-30) and then
"Go" (Matthew 28:19-20)

 

The high price of Pride

 Read Obadiah.

The Edomites were descendants of Esau.  The Israelites were the family of Jacob.  Even before birth, these twin boys struggled against each other.  For centuries thereafter animosity existed between the two nations.  Edom refused passage to Israel during the Exodus and instead of helping their national brother, they came out for war (Numbers 20:14-21).  God admonished the Jews not to hate the Edomites (Deuteronomy 23:7).  But it was Edom that caused the tension in the relationship and repeatedly sinned against Israel.    And, the occasional skirmishes continued throughout the Old Testament.

Edom became known for its wise men, its wealth, its alliances with other nations, and its naturally secure location.  The people lived in high caves on the mountain.  With such environments of safety, they felt untouchable.  They believed they could do whatever they wished and even God could not do anything against them.  But their sins piled up to the point of God's intervention.  God said, "I will bring you down" (v.4).  As Walter L. Baker points out, "Judgment against Edom is mentioned in more Old Testament books than it is against any other foreign nation."

When the land of Israel was invaded, the Edomites did not help their brother.  Indeed, they helped the enemy.  And then, they helped themselves to some of the spoils.  Beside their sinful attitude of pride (v.3), the LORD saw what they sinfully did and did not do in verse 11.
1. They sinned by omission.
"On that day you stood aloof."  When the attack came against the Jews, they gloated (v.12).  James wrote, "So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin" (James 4:17)
2. They sinned by commission.
"...strangers carried off his wealth...you were like one of them."  God compared them to thieves.  But even thieves would not act as they did (v.5).

The Golden Rule is applied here.  "As you have done, it shall be done to you" (v.15).  Edom will be wiped out.  "There shall be no survivor for the house of Esau" (v.18).  But God's blessings will come upon Israel.

Pride and disobedience always leads to God's intervention with punishment.  Humility before God and obedience to His word pleases Him.

 

What did God say about the future of Israel?

 Read Amos 9.

Though repeatedly warned of the coming judgment, many people said, "Disaster shall not overtake or meet us" (v.10).  In simple terms, they did not believe what God said.  But their feelings did not change the facts.

The destruction of the nation was so certain that in this fifth vision the LORD personally appeared to Amos.  Not only would the structure where the northern kingdom worshiped be destroyed, but the enemy would pursue the people to kill them (vv.1-2).  The people will run for their lives but God detailed for them that they will not be able find a place of safety anywhere (vv.2-4).

Nineveh had long forgotten the days of Jonah and their historic national repentance.  Assyria became even more evil and brutal in their treatment of its enemies.  However, God makes sure in this message that it is He who is in control.  He brought the Jews from Egypt and established them on this land.  These are His people and the judgment against them is from Him (vv.5-8). 

What about the unconditional promises the LORD made to Abraham and his descendants?

At the end of verse 8, God said, "...except I will not utterly destroy the house of Jacob."  Not everyone in the nation was unrepentant.  "All the sinners of my people shall die by the sword" (v.10a).  God does not forget.  He will deal with the sin and keep His promises.  There remained, and remains, a future for the Jews.

The last five verses provide the turning point to the prophecy of Amos.  There is coming a future day for Israel when the following will take place:
1. "I will raise up the booth of David that has fallen."
The reign of an earthly Davidic kingdom will be reestablished.  As a tent or awning, that rule will cover the entire land; no longer a divided kingdom.
2. I will "repair its breaches."
There was and is so much brokenness.  The regathering and reuniting of the nation under a single king is their future hope.
3. I will "rise up its ruins."
The palaces, the Temple, buildings and homes were all leveled.  And, as predicted in Revelation, there is even greater destruction to come.  But God is personally assuming the responsibility here to see that one day the land will not lie in ruins.
4. I will "rebuild it as the days of old."
The last king to reign over a united kingdom of Israel was Solomon.  Those were the days of that glorious Temple, luxurious structures in Jerusalem, and the world looked to the nation as the people of God.  The LORD will see to it that this reputation is rebuilt.  And, not just for the Jews, but "...all the nations who are called by my name."
5. "I will restore the fortunes of my people Israel."
In agricultural terms, the nation's restored prosperity is amazingly described. 

As an exclamation point to these prophecies, God declared, "...they shall never again be uprooted out of the land that I have given them."

 

Why is our nation not in Mourning?

 Read Amos 8.

Philosopher George Santayana is credited with this statement: "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it."

In the fourth vision of Israel's impending doom, God showed Amos a basket of summer fruit.  The interpretation is simple.  Israel was ripe for judgment.  The time had come for the LORD to respond to the unbridled sin of the nation.  In particular, the business community was singled out for their greed and dishonesty.  They even complained at having to stop their commerce for the scheduled times of worshiping the LORD.  They "trample on the needy and bring the poor of the land to an end" (v.4).

The scene of what was about to take place is graphically described by God.  When the Assyrian army invades the land, the dead bodies will be "thrown everywhere" (v.3).  Their songs will be turned into sobbing and their feasts into famine.  They will cry out to God, but He will not listen.  They will seek Him, but He will not be found.  They rejected His messages delivered by the prophets when He urged them to repent, so He will withhold His word when this judgment falls (v.11).

Even the youngest and strongest will not be able to endure (v.13).  Where are the false gods and false teachings in which they trusted (v.14) instead of the God of heaven?  All those alternative beliefs proved powerless in the day that the all-powerful One meted out what He promised.

Here was God's question: "Shall not the land tremble on this account and everyone mourn who dwells in it?" (v.8).  Hebrews 13:8 reminds us that Jesus Christ is "the same yesterday, today and forever."  If a nation (a people or an individual) does not listen and take heed regarding the judgment to come, how do they think they shall escape?  The reason there is no trembling and mourning over their sin is because they do not believe the Lord will hold them accountable.  The message in the middle of Amos is "prepare to meet your God" (4:12).

The solution?  Jesus said, "Come to me..." (Matthew 11:28)

 

Confidence in the face of Opposition

 Read Amos 7.

God's judgment on the northern kingdom was certain.  Amos had been called and assigned by the LORD to warn the people and urge them to repent of their sin.  To reveal how the punishment would occur, God showed him five visions; three in chapter seven and two in chapter eight.  The destruction in the visions was so great that it moved Amos to intercede for the nation. 

1. Locusts. (vv.1-3)
This dreaded plague against Israel's crops would have meant famine.  Amos cried out for God to forgive the people and not do this.  God heard and answered the judgment part of that prayer.

2. Fire. (vv.4-6)
Such a disaster would not only destroy all the crops but all the structures of the land as well.  Amos prayed for this not to happen and, again, God answered his prayer.

3. Sword. (vv.7-9)
In other words, war by an enemy nation would inflict upon Israel what God wanted to accomplish.  There is no recorded prayer and the judgment did not change.

To illustrate how out of line the nation of Israel had become, God is pictured holding a plumb-line against a wall.  God's standards of what is right does not change.  Holding up His righteousness next to Israel vividly revealed their crookedness.  God did not move.  They did.

The northern kingdom had separated itself from Jerusalem and established an amalgam of false worship.  It is no surprise that the priest of Bethel and the king refused to listen God's word.  Instead of listening to the message, their solution was to get rid of the messenger.  But, Amos knew that the message was not his and the assignment was not his.  God designed and planned the life of Amos to fulfill His purpose at this point in time.  Such understanding gave Amos confidence to stand strong in the face of opposition.

Knowing how God created us as individuals, what He has given to us in abilities, and taking full advantage of the opportunities He provides will result in a life that pleases Him and fulfills us.  There is no greater confidence than the sense that one is in the center of God's will for their lives.

"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2:10)