Friday, December 31, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary
For Sunday January 2, 2011

GOD IS OUR REDEEMER
(GOD redeems, ransoms, and releases us to fulfill HIS purpose)
(Isaiah 44)

It is for the purpose of GOD that the Christian is called. It is by the work of the HOLY SPIRIT that a person’s life is hallowed towards GOD. And, it is by the sprinkling of the blood of CHRIST JESUS that past sins are forgiven, and we can look forward to a future of obedience to GOD.
When we choose the Christian Walk, we automatically become strangers to worldly behavior. We are no longer permanent residents of this earth, but rather, we become citizens of Heaven, and therefore, the Laws of GOD become paramount to us. We have been resurrected into a new life with CHRIST and our relationship with GOD becomes our greatest asset, not the people and things of this world that we previously tended to over-cherish.
In the biblical Greek, the word used for “resurrection” is “anastasis”, and it is “a moral recovery of a spiritual truth”, and, it also means “to stand up again”. It is not until a person falls in love with goodness, that wrong things will no longer fascinate and have power over them. A right relationship with GOD allows us to recover a spiritual truth that may have been lost by previous generations of our families, because they failed to pass on the legacy of faith that had been previously passed on to them. GOD, through HIS unfailing love, mercy, and faithfulness to mankind, continues to allow each generation a new chance to recover the baton that has been dropped by those who came before us.
In Isaiah 44, after Isaiah had shown in the two previous chapters how Israel had failed as GOD’s servant, the LORD promises through HIS prophet, to restore those who are called by HIS name, those who choose to follow HIM, back into a right relationship of friendship with HIM during the millennial kingdom of CHRIST.
GOD promises to give us even a better chance this time, as HE vows to pour out HIS HOLY SPIRIT, and HIS blessings upon all those who believe in HIM, even those of future generations to come. The LORD would revive those believers, both physically and spiritually, even the Gentiles who choose to honor the name of Israel as their own (Vs. 1-5).
In verses 6-23 the uniqueness of GOD is illustrated as Isaiah shows us how illogical and ludicrously absurd idol worship really is, by contrasting it against the Almighty GOD, the CREATOR of the Heavens and the Earth. Here several titles are used by Isaiah, in addition to the title “Almighty GOD”, to emphasize GOD’s sovereignty. Those titles include “Israel’s King”, “Redeemer”, and, “The First and the Last”.
The practice of idolatry dominated the ancient world that is depicted in the Holy Scriptures, both, in the Old Testament, and, in the New Testament. Some idol worshippers were very superstitious, and they viewed their carved images as deities, even though they had made them with their own hands, from whatever scrap leftover wood, metal, or stone that may have been lying around.
Some were of a more sophisticated nature, seeing the figures that they bowed down to, only as physical representations, of spiritual beings from on high. However, idol worship, in any form, involves an explicit, blatant denial of the GOD WHO is the CREATOR of even the materials which idol worshippers use to make their worthless idol gods. In truth, GOD makes HIMSELF plain for all to see, especially through HIS Creation, and any swift or gradual slide into idolatry, amounts to little more than just another blasphemous way of saying to GOD, “We are not what YOU made us”. It is no better than the sin of “self worship” that is comprised in sexual sins such as homosexually, adultery, fornication, etc.
In Isaiah 44:21-22, we see that through it all, GOD continues to refer to us as HIS servants. HE continues to claim us as HIS OWN and says HE will continue to help us get it right. Through JESUS CHRIST, HE has swept away past sins like the morning mist, and HE has scattered our offenses against HIM, like the clouds. HE beckons us to return to HIM because, through JESUS’ vicarious sacrifice, HE has paid for our trespasses and has set us free from the dominion of death and sin. And as a bonus, in verses 25-28, GOD promises to expose all those false prophets who would mislead HIS children by way of their lies and deceitful advice, and HE will make them look like fools in front of the whole world.
However, GOD will continue to uphold the words of those whom HE has truly sent to represent HIM here on earth, and HIS commitment to do right will continue to be revealed in the salvation of sinners, as well as, in HIS judgment of sin. GOD will continue to be true to us despite of our failures, and we can see clearly in this passage from the book of Isaiah, how salvation has been moved beyond the deliverance from any present danger, and into a realm of “resurrection” at the “end of days”, or in the much anticipated, “Day of the LORD”.

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


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Thursday, December 23, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary
For Sunday December 26, 2010

GOD WILL BE WITH YOU
(GOD is our only SAVIOR and HE promises us victory)
(Isaiah 43)

In the Hebrew, the word used for “redeemed” is “ga’al”, and it means “to buy out of slavery”. In Isaiah 43, the prophet writes of a “new exodus” in which GOD would once again bring HIS people back home from their captivity and oppression, this time, from out of Babylon. Here in this passage we see yet another “salvation oracle” being introduced with the powerful words “Thus says the LORD”. “Fear not” is the first element in this prophetic passage, and it gives reference to, and is based upon, what GOD had done for the Israelites in the past, namely, Israel’s miracle-filled exodus from Egypt.
Many legal terms are applied here, as it is in much of Old Testament literature, where it references the many “distinctive acts of GOD” that would soon occur. First GOD says HE will “redeem” HIS people, as would a “kindred redeemer” redeem a family member (Ruth, chapters 2-4) according to Hebrew Law. Then, GOD “named HIS people”, as would a parent, or legal guardian name their children. And finally, GOD says that HE will “ransom” them with Babylon, as HE had done earlier with Egypt, Ethiopia, and Seba, when HE gave those nations up as a ransom for Israel’s freedom (Isaiah 43:1-4). And so here we see, GOD saves us through HIS laws, as well as, through HIS distinctive acts.
In Isaiah 43:25-27 GOD invites us to appear in HIS court of law, a place we wouldn’t want to be without JESUS. GOD’s greatest distinctive act was to send us HIS only begotten SON, JESUS, and HE, by doing so, offered HIM up as a ransom for our sins against HIM. As our personal SAVIOR, one of the ways JESUS saves us is by speaking on our behalf in front of GOD the FATHER, WHO is the injured party, prosecutor, and judge in HIS court. When we choose JESUS, HE becomes our advocate in GOD’s court of law, and HE is the only ONE WHO is qualified to stand before GOD on our behalf. In biblical times, people involved in legal disputes had to appeal before an earthly king for justice, however, in the day of the LORD, our cases will be appealed before our Heavenly FATHER, WHO will only take appeals from one advocate, CHRIST JESUS.
And finally, GOD saves us by the power of the HOLY SPIRIT, WHO is the only ONE WHO can lead, counsel, and guide us into all righteousness, that is the righteousness of CHRIST. Apart from the HOLY SPIRIT we can’t even fully understand the word and laws of GOD enough to respect or obey them. It is the SPIRIT that opens up our minds to understanding and following our LORD (1 Corinthians 2:10-16). No man can come to CHRIST unless the HOLY SPIRIT draws them, and the HOLY SPIRIT doesn’t draw those who lack the desire to be in the family of GOD (John 6:44-47). GOD created all men, but all men are not children of GOD. Only those who earnestly believe and accept CHRIST as their personal SAVIOR, can ever be a child of GOD (John 1:12).
And so we can clearly see through this ancient passage of Isaiah that GOD, that is, the whole of GOD, GOD the FATHER, GOD the SON, and GOD the HOLY SPIRIT has long ago, committed to remain with us once we commit to remain with HIM. The “whole of GOD” is committed to the “whole of man” in the three spheres of time that a man has to travel through, the past, the present, and, the future. Man, has always been, is now, and, will forever be, in total need of GOD. We need GOD the FATHER for our daily protection and provisions (Isaiah 43:5), that’s the present. We need JESUS for the forgiveness of sins (Isaiah 43:25), that’s the past. And we need the HOLY SPIRIT for guidance, for counseling, and to lead us into an uncertain future on faith (Isaiah 43:18-19). And so the whole of GOD is made available to the whole needs of man, and apart from GOD, there is no SAVIOR.

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


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Friday, December 17, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary
For Sunday December 19, 2010

TRUE PEACE ON EARTH
(GOD brings true peace and justice)
(Isaiah 9:6-7 & 11:1-8)

The Jews of the first century eagerly anticipated a time when the much talked about MESSIAH would show up and physically free Israel from Roman domination, and set up a physical kingdom that would eventually reach the ends of the earth, as they knew it at that time. They expected HIM to come and restore their nation to even greater heights than those of the United Kingdoms of David and Solomon of years gone by. In fact, they took the words of Isaiah 9:7 quite literally.
Strangely, however, when the MESSIAH did finally come, even the Jewish leaders were so far detached from GOD spiritually, that they couldn’t even recognize the exact character of GOD in the flesh. And so, they rejected JESUS, never being able to accept the repeated spiritual emphasis that HE presented to them, as a requirement, to become a part of the kingdom that GOD promised them. Sure! They wanted the kingdom, but they wanted it the way that they perceived it their mortal minds, and to them, that did not include having JESUS as the king of their lives.
Mankind has never seen itself as a spiritual prisoner of sin, but rather, we always see ourselves as being oppressed by some type of physical enemy, usually another person, race, or nation. And despite scripture telling us over and over again that our enemy is not flesh and blood, but rather, evil spirits from on high, we continue to fight each other while satan runs roughshod over our lives, and our families lives, stealing from us, killing us, and destroying us in ways that wreck eternal havoc. We never seem to stop searching for physical answers, to problems, that have always been, spiritual. We find ourselves running from relationship to relationship, over-indulging in food, trying to spend our way to happiness etc., never realizing that, only a relationship with GOD, can bring peace and justice to us here on earth.
The prophet Isaiah referred to the HOLY SPIRIT more than did any other prophet (four times) in the annals of Old Testament history. Here in chapter 11 he writes of how the HOLY SPIRIT would act upon, and characterize a future MESSIAH, that would come through the line of King David, the son of Jesse. He tells us that, after GOD the FATHER has cut down all of the foreign kings and nations that HE HIMSELF would allow to conquer Israel and Judah, HIS beloved chosen people would rise again, out of the loins of David’s family, to lay claim to a throne and a kingdom, that would rule forever. JESUS, the true branch of GOD, would bear an everlasting fruit (Salvation) that would benefit all people who choose to abide in HIM, for all time.
Throughout JESUS’ life on earth, the HOLY SPIRIT rested on HIM and empowered HIM day by day. The work of the HOLY SPIRIT, which is characterized by the GODly attributes of wisdom, understanding, council, power, knowledge, and the fear of the LORD, abided with JESUS for the duration of HIS first advent.
Like JESUS, we humans, here on earth, can benefit from the work of the HOLY SPIRIT in our lives. For, we cannot argue the fact that we all, if we are in our right mind, long to have peace and justice as a mainstay to our existence. However, the help of the HOLY SPIRIT is a benefit that is available to us, only by first accepting JESUS CHRIST as our LORD and SAVIOR. There is no other way available to man that can provide us with the peace and justice that we need in this life, and the only ticket that can deliver us into GOD’s OWN glorious presence in the eternal life to come.

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


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Friday, December 10, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary
For Sunday December 12, 2010

NOT FORSAKEN
(GOD forever dwells with HIS people)
(Isaiah 41)

One of the more frequent images in Old Testament literature is that of a courtroom scene, or trial, whereby the LORD, is not only the injured party, but HE is also the prosecutor and the judge. In Isaiah chapter 40, we found the prophet Isaiah speaking for the LORD, in regards to HIS holy intentions toward the Israelites, however, here in chapter 41, we find GOD speaking for HIMSELF. This divine depiction of a courtroom trial is brilliantly used by GOD to present HIS case against HIS beloved Israelites, who had by now, reduced their behavior before HIM, down to the level of the pagans. It is a setting staged for the announcement of a divine sentence of judgment against the evildoers of Judah.
Here in chapter 41, verses 2-3, GOD pre-announces the emergence of the great Persian king, Cyrus, whom HE would later use to overthrow King Nebuchadnezzar and his Babylonian Empire, after HE has used them, to destroy Jerusalem and take Judah into a 70-year captivity in Babylon. However, these coming events are not to spell the end of the people that GOD calls HIS OWN. Tomorrow’s wars can hold no terror for those who choose GOD. Eventually, all of Israel’s enemies will be put down, and her needs met, for that is the eternal promise from GOD, that is backed by all the honor of HIS name (Psalm 138:2b).
We can see that promise of hope quite vividly here in 41:8, as GOD continues to refer to Israel as “MY servant”. Here, the term “servant” underscores two things; “divine choice”, and “fulfillment of a divinely ordained task”. Even though Israel has always been GOD’s servant, she has also, always fallen miserably short of completing her assigned mission. And as Isaiah will reveal in the following chapter (Isaiah 42:1-7), GOD would eventually send another servant, HIS only begotten SON, JESUS CHRIST, and as we all know now, JESUS would successfully complete the mission that GOD gave HIM to do. HE would redeem all mankind, not just Israel, back into a personal relationship of friendship with GOD, if they choose to accept and be a part of HIS Kingdom, through JESUS the REDEEMER.
This passage serves to show us that GOD will not discard us when we fail, but rather, HE will remain committed to us in love, despite our failures. HE will help us to dig our way out of the seemingly hopeless situations that we find ourselves in, because of the poor choices that we make, trying to find physical answers to spiritual problems. GOD is committed to strengthening HIS people, and, as a result, we can take solace in the fact that the awesome power of GOD will always be available to us, through CHRIST JESUS.
Throughout this passage, GOD speaks comforting words that go a long ways toward allaying the fears of HIS people, and thereby, building up their faith so that they can earnestly rely on HIM for all of their needs.
In verse 26, the term “in the beginning”, in the King James Version of scripture, stresses the purposeful aspects of Creation, as they unfold through the process of time. However, GOD did not set the world as if HE was setting time on a “windup watch”, and then, sit back and wait on it to wind down. From the beginning, HE had a plan and a purpose that must be carried out by every person, down through the annals of time, and, it all must work out, according to HIS divine and eternal design.
GOD is the writer, producer, and director of the story of our lives, and HE knows exactly, how, and when the drama will end. And, inherently, the enigmas of life will become less baffling, when we come to rest in the thought, that this life is not the final act of the human drama. GOD will never forsake us, nor will HE abandon us to the grave (Psalm 16:10-11), and not one of our modern-day idols (people, money, houses, cars, etc) can make us that promise.

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


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Friday, December 3, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary
For Sunday December 5, 2010

RECEIVING COMFORT AND STRENGTH
(GOD’s inexhaustible strength renews HIS people)
(Isaiah 40)

Isaiah chapter 40 marks the beginning of the second of two major segments that comprise the makeup of this divinely prophetic book. While chapters 1-39 dealt mostly with GOD’s measurements and judgments upon the nation of Israel, chapters 40-66 speak of the promise of restoration and deliverance of Israel, back into GOD’s grace, comfort, and strength.
When Isaiah wrote these prophesies of restoration, Judah still had more than 100 years of struggle ahead of them, because of their rebellious lifestyle against GOD, before they were to begin their 70 year sentence of punishment, that was to be handed down by GOD, in the form of kidnap and captivity at the hands of Nebuchadnezzar and his powerful Babylonian army in 586 B.C. GOD called on Isaiah to speak these words of comfort to those who had been paying attention to the warnings of the eighth century prophets, and, who were trusting in GOD for leniency and forgiveness.
Chapters 40-55, in particular, exhibit a remarkable unity of style and theology, and here in the opening lines of this chapter, we see an announcement of their main theme of “restoration for Judah”. As it always is with GOD, in the midst of our sins, HE is faithful to forgive us. However, HE is also faithful to discipline us by allowing us to suffer with the consequences of our iniquities. The sufferings of Israel in Babylon, that were foretold in the previous chapters of this book are over, and now, GOD is letting the people know that it can all be summed up as divine punishment for their sins (vs. 1-2).
Following the Israelites 70-year punishment in captivity in Babylon, GOD had already orchestrated a plan by which HE would bring HIS people home, restore the nation, and rebuild it back to its splendor. In verses 3-5, we find that a voice, other than Isaiah’s, is calling out to the people to begin preparing the way for the LORD and HIS glory. In the New Testament, each of the four Gospel writers apply these verses to John the Baptist, the desert prophet who prepared the way for JESUS CHRIST at the beginning of the first century A.D. However, here in the pages of Isaiah, the entire nation of Judah had been lingering on a spiritual desert for hundreds of years, and they desperately needed to ready themselves for the “distinctive act of GOD” that would be forthcoming, and, that would restore them back to their homeland circa 538 B.C under the leadership of Zerubbabel and others (Ezra 2).
In verses 6-8, a second voice, that is likely the voice of GOD, commands Isaiah to cry out. The voice instructs him to contrast the difference between GOD and man. In a nutshell, the voice tells Isaiah to remind the people that they are temporal, and are always changing, like grass that soon dies away. GOD, on the other hand, is eternal, and always the same, yesterday, today, and tomorrow, HIS word will endure forever.
Just like back in Isaiah’s day, we today, who call ourselves by HIS name (Christian) need only to turn to GOD and forsake our own modern-day idols (people, houses, cars, money etc.), those things that put us in captivity to sin in the first place. GOD, will then renew us and revive us, after the consequences of our iniquities has run their course.
GOD is the only ONE WHO can give us new strength, the kind of strength that will allow us to soar like eagles, to run and not grow weary, and to continue on in our Christian walk, and not faint. We have no power in ourselves, except what GOD can grant us through HIS HOLY SPIRIT when we accept CHRIST JESUS. Only in HIM can we find the strength that we need to carry out the “Great Commission” that CHRIST has charged us with, and, at one and the same time, be able to resist, the gravitational pull of this world.

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


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Wednesday, November 24, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary
For Sunday November 28, 2010

FOLLOW YOUR CREATOR
(Invite GOD to lead you in HIS way)
(Psalm 139)

Psalm 139 reminds us of how well GOD knows us and cares for us as HIS special creation. HE knows the thousands of thoughts that go through our heads on a daily basis, and, HE knows them before we think them. HE knows what we are going to say, even before the words roll off our tongues and lips, and HE knows also, the motivation, be it pure or impure, behind what we say.
King David meditated often upon the sovereignty and power of the ALMIGHTY GOD he served, and he often called on GOD to apply HIS truth to the wicked, as well as to himself. He was a man after GOD’s OWN heart, and so he often petitioned GOD to examine his heart, and to lead him into all righteousness.
Psalm 139 is one of those times of meditation by David on GOD’s greatness. In it, we find David sharing with us, his thoughts and his reverence for GOD’s omniscience (all-knowingness) in verses 1-6, HIS omnipresence (ability to be everywhere at the same time) in verses 7-12, and HIS omnipotence (all-powerfulness) in verses 13-18. This psalm has four distinct strophes, or stanzas that contain six verses each, and its overall message progresses significantly from one stanza to the next. Walk with me now as we examine each stanza a little closer in an attempt to increase our spiritual growth and knowledge.
In verses 1-6, David writes of GOD’s penetrating advance knowledge of everything that a man thinks and does, and how GOD knows it, even before he thinks about it, or, actually does it. Here David expresses the same attitude that Hagar did, after she had fled from Abraham’s house, and then realized, while sitting at the well, that was later called Beer-lahairoi (located between Kadesh and Bered), that her GOD is “the GOD WHO sees me” (Genesis 16:13). David also realized that the knowledge of GOD is far too great for human comprehension, or, for the human mind to contain.
In verses 7-12, David shifts gears, as he begins to meditate on GOD’s ability to be all places at all times. Here David gives us a vivid description of GOD’s inescapable presence. He tells us that no place is high enough or low enough, to escape GOD’s presence. No place is deep enough, or wide enough to overreach the SPIRIT of the ALMIGHTY GOD, and, not even darkness can hide us from HIS presence.
In verses 13-18, David shifts yet again as he ponders on GOD’s breathe-taking, life-giving power to create the human existence, and then, allow it to be procreated and duplicated, through the miracle of childbirth, and, have the life of each individual already planned out, minute by minute, before, they are ever conceived in the womb. GOD then remains with us, and sustains us through the life that HE has given us.
In verses 19-22, David petitions GOD to destroy his wicked enemies, who are also enemies of GOD HIMSELF. Apparently, these enemies of David had been taking the name of the LORD, his GOD, in vain, and David believed that he should have nothing to do with those who hated GOD. He then ends this, now famous, psalm with what are perhaps, its most famous verses. They are the words contained in verses 23-24, where David writes, “Search me, O GOD, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting (KJV).
Rick Warren wrote in his book “The Purpose Driven Life” that, “While life on earth offers many choices, eternity offers only two: Heaven and Hell. Your relationship to GOD on earth will determine your relationship to HIM in eternity. If you learn to love and trust GOD’s SON, JESUS, you will be invited to spend the rest of eternity with HIM. On the other hand, if you reject HIS love, forgiveness, and salvation, you will spend eternity apart from GOD, forever”.
GOD knows us, and HE loves us, and, HE wants us to get to know and love HIM. If we take the time to do that, while here on earth, HE will grant us time eternally to be with HIM in Heaven. And remember, GOD does not send anyone to Hell, but rather, it is by our rejection of HIM, through our failure to accept CHRIST, in our hearts, that we ourselves, choose to go.

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


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Friday, November 19, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary
For Sunday November 21, 2010

GOD DELIVERS AND PROTECTS
(GOD protects those who look to HIM for security)
(Psalm 91)

Psalm 91 is a wonderful testimony about the security and protection that mankind can find, only in GOD. There are several terms that seem to link psalms 90-92, and this may suggest that they are a unit of sorts, and, may have been written by a common author, which, in this case, would be Moses. However, there is not too much other evidence that can help substantiate this theory, and so psalm 91 and 92, at least for now, remains in the category of “unknown human author”.
In verse 1 of this psalm, the terms “the ALMIGHTY” and “the MOST HIGH” emphasize GOD’s power as the sovereign ruler of the universe. Also, the use of the metaphors of “shelter”, or, “secret place”, and “shadow”, depict GOD as a safe refuge for anyone who trusts in HIM. They vividly portray a divine protection, or hiding place from all kinds of hurt and harm, even when being surrounded by it.
To be “under the wings of”, in verse 4, implies a certain degree of comfort, as well as shielded protection, during times of trouble. GOD and HIS angels will guard and protect us from frightening attacks, pestilence and diseases, or any other attempts on the lives of those who trust in HIM, and the LORD HIMSELF, promises this protection through HIS written word (vs. 3-13). The psalmist tells us that no harm or danger will come to those who find for themselves, refuge in the LORD ALMIGHTY.
One of the great biblical examples of how GOD protects those who trust in HIM can be found in the pages of the book of the prophet Daniel. In Daniel chapter 3, taking up at verse 16, in the, now famous, story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the “fiery furnace”, we find one of the greatest declarations of faith in all of scripture. There we see the three courageous young men of GOD, making this profound statement of defiance to greatest king of that era, King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon; “O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the GOD WHOM we serve is able to save us. HE will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty. But even if HE doesn’t, Your Majesty can be sure that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up” (NLT). Then we see a furious King Nebuchadnezzar commanding his soldiers to heat up the palace furnace to 7 times its normal temperature. And because the three had refused to bow down and worship the king’s idols, he then orders his strongest men to bind, and then, throw the three young believers into the blazing inferno. The flames were so hot that they leaped out and killed even the soldiers, who threw the young men in.
A few moments later, while the king was watching, looking into the furnace to see the men burn, he instead sees, not three, but four figures, with the fourth looking like a divine being, walking around in the furnace. The king then asks Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to come out of the furnace, and when they did, not only were they not burnt, they didn’t even smell like smoke!
The great lesson to be gleaned from this story of these three courageous young men is that we can place our faith in two aspects the ALMIGHTY GOD’s sovereign power: One aspect is “HIS ability to do all things”, and the other is “HIS willingness to do all things that fall within the confines of HIS will”. We can always place our trust in the hands of a sovereign GOD WHO is surprised by nothing, and is in control of everything.

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


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Friday, November 12, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary
For Sunday November 14, 2010

GLAD FOR TODAY AND TOMORROW
(GOD can make us glad all our days, starting right now)
(Psalm 90)

The biblical collection that comprises the book of Psalms, actually, consists of five separate books. Book one is Psalm 1-41, book two 42-72, book three 73-89, book four 90-106, and book five is psalm 107-150. Psalm 90 is believed by most scholars, to be a prayer by Moses, the mighty man of GOD. It is the first psalm of the fourth book in the collection, and if Moses truly is the author, that makes this psalm the oldest one in the psalter.
Psalm 90 contrasts the eternal qualities of GOD, against the frailties of man, which are, quite frankly, a consequence of our sins against GOD. For we must always remember that it is sin that brought physical death into the world, and now, GOD, through HIS mercy, in the person of JESUS CHRIST, grants us a second chance at a relationship with HIM, and a second chance at re-obtaining the “eternal life status” that was lost through the disobedience of Adam and Eve.
This psalm also reminds us of how GOD, through that same mercy and unfailing love for us, is also willing to bring joy to our brief, but unstable and unfaithful lives here on earth, that is, whenever, and, if ever, we decide to accept HIS salvation gift, “take on JESUS’ task” (take the gospel message to others), and “take up our own cross” (resist the temptations of sin, through the power of the HOLY SPIRIT in us).
Moses forfeited his opportunity to enter into the “Promised Land” (Numbers 20:12 & Deuteronomy 3:23-27) when he lost his temper because of his people’s disobedience, and then, failed himself, to follow the exact instructions of the LORD. As a result of his own anger and disobedience, he was left with the choice of either drowning in self-pity for what he had done, or, he could continue on with his work and help the next generation, namely Joshua, to make better decisions than he did, when faced with similar situations as leaders.
Moses, first of all, wanted young Joshua, for instance, to stay focused on GOD’s very presence, in times of trouble. It is a natural human reaction for us to focus on “self” by throwing a pity party whenever things don’t go our way, however, time is short for us, and unlike GOD, WHO has no beginning or end, we, on the other hand, all come into this world with an expiration date on us (Psalm 90:1-6). And so, it is in those times of trouble when we should most of all, trust GOD. GOD will always give us the ability to refocus on HIM and HIS presence during times of despair, so that we can continue on with our life work, and not linger in doubt and pity for too long.
Secondly, we see in Moses’ prayer, that he understood that it is extremely important for us to use GOD’s time wisely, so that we may grow in wisdom (Psalm 90:24). Each of us needs to cogitate seriously on what time we have left in this world, and on how we can better use it to glorify the LORD, WHO created us expressly for HIS OWN purpose and use.
And then finally, we need to finish well! Moses asked GOD to give him insight on how to use the remainder of his life. He realized that he had already wasted too much time on foolish anger, and now he sought only to repent, and to petition that GOD, through HIS mercy and benevolence, would extend to him joy and peace, and make all of his work successful, for the rest of his life. He asked for gladness in proportion to his former misery, and that he be able to pass on a legacy of faith, so that the children who followed him, would be able to see and experience GOD’s wonderful glory at work in their lives, for generations to come (Psalm 90:13-17). Moses wanted GOD to grant him joy, and the beauty of life, even though he would never see the fruition of the work that GOD had called him to do (entering the “Promised Land”), in his lifetime.

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


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Larry D. Alexander WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON

Friday, November 5, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary

For Sunday November 7, 2010
____________________________________________

GOD IS AWESOME
(And HE is faithful to forgive us when we earnestly repent)
(Psalm 66)

When we can see GOD’s hand of protection even in our times of pain, suffering, and troubles, it is sign that we are finally becoming mature Christians. We can then, more clearly understand, the goodness and care that GOD incorporates in HIS judgment, testing, and shaping of our character. Each of us, as individuals, can thereby be moved to heartfelt worship, and we begin honoring GOD more sincerely than we ever have before.
Psalm 66 is one of the great psalms of thanksgiving to the LORD for what HE has done in our carnal lives, as HE helps us get ready for a time when we will share in a future, eternal and glorious life, in HIS OWN presence.
In this psalm, verses 1-12 are written in the first person plural, (i.e. “us”, “our”, & “we”) and in verses 13-20, the psalmist switches to first person singular (i.e. “I”, “me”, & “my”). This literary shift speaks to the fact that we must not only worship GOD in a corporate manner, but we must also worship GOD in our private individual lives as well. This is particularly true for those who are considered to be leaders in the church. Not only must they lead in corporate worship services, but they must also hold themselves accountable in worshiping and adhering to the ways of GOD in their own private lives, and in their household (Joshua 24:15).
A community of faith praises GOD joyfully, and a family of faith, or, an individual of faith, will likewise do the same. And even though GOD has tested us with all kinds of oppressions and burdens, ultimately, whenever we pass those tests, GOD will always bring us to a place of blessings and favor, and it will be because we have accepted HIS shaping for the task that HE needs our bodies, hearts, and minds to perform, here on earth (Psalm 66:10-14).
In Psalm 66:16-20 the psalmist gives us a personal testimony of what GOD did for him. He wrote of how he himself had cried out to GOD in a time of difficulty and GOD did deliver him from his troubles. However the psalmist reminds us that we cannot skip the first step in forming a right relationship with GOD, and that first step is to “repent” for the sin in our heart (sins we have carried out, or, are thinking about carrying out).
In the Greek, the word used for “repent” is “metanoia” (met-an-oy-ah), and in its most basic root biblical sense, it means to “reconsider”, or to “think differently” about. It means “to develop a strong compunction for, or a strong feeling of uneasiness that is brought on by a sense of guilt, or sting of the conscience”. And all these feelings of GODly sorrow must take place in the thinking stages, BEFORE we sin. It is, “a change of mind” in advance of acting out.
As Christians, the HOLY SPIRIT is embodied in us by GOD so that we do not continue to sin. The HOLY SPIRIT helps us to defeat sin while it is still in the thinking stages, and is not intended to be used to rebuke us after we sin, by saying “AHA, I caught you!”. The HOLY SPIRIT is given to us that we may not sin in the first place. JESUS says in Matthew 5:28, for example, that, “Anyone who even looks at a woman with lust in his eyes has already committed adultery with her in his heart” (NLT). And that my friends, is sin in the thinking stages, where JESUS says, it must be addressed.
When we become caught up in our sin, it is impossible for the human mind to distinguish weather we are sorry about the sin itself (repent), or, are we sorry because we got caught (regret). True repent is “a change of mind”, but it is a “change of mind BEFORE we sin, not after”. If we do it after we sin, we didn’t change our mind, we went through with it. GOD wants us to feel remorse about sinful thoughts, which are the prelude to actually acting out our transgressions.
If we wait until after we sin to feel remorse, the feeling that we are left with is not repent, but rather, it is likely, just regret, and we haven’t really addressed the heart issue. It’s like the psalmist proclaims here in Psalm 66, verse 18, “If I had not confessed the sin in my heart, my LORD would not have listened” (NLT).
When we cry out first to GOD in earnest repent, GOD will always listen to our petitions for help. HE will not ignore our prayers, and, HE will not withdraw HIS unfailing love from us. HE is a GOD WHO will answer the prayers of those who righteously seek HIM (James 5:16), by first, earnestly repenting of the sins of their heart, which are those sins that we are still thinking about committing, or those that may be hidden in our heart and can be brought to our minds later, because of our continuing struggle with our own sin nature.

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


Larry D. Alexander - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary

For Sunday November 7, 2010
____________________________________________

GOD IS AWESOME
(And HE is faithful to forgive us when we earnestly repent)
(Psalm 66)

When we can see GOD’s hand of protection even in our times of pain, suffering, and troubles, it is sign that we are finally becoming mature Christians. We can then, more clearly understand, the goodness and care that GOD incorporates in HIS judgment, testing, and shaping of our character. Each of us, as individuals, can thereby be moved to heartfelt worship, and we begin honoring GOD more sincerely than we ever have before.
Psalm 66 is one of the great psalms of thanksgiving to the LORD for what HE has done in our carnal lives, as HE helps us get ready for a time when we will share in a future, eternal and glorious life, in HIS OWN presence.
In this psalm, verses 1-12 are written in the first person plural, (i.e. “us”, “our”, & “we”) and in verses 13-20, the psalmist switches to first person singular (i.e. “I”, “me”, & “my”). This literary shift speaks to the fact that we must not only worship GOD in a corporate manner, but we must also worship GOD in our private individual lives as well. This is particularly true for those who are considered to be leaders in the church. Not only must they lead in corporate worship services, but they must also hold themselves accountable in worshiping and adhering to the ways of GOD in their own private lives, and in their household (Joshua 24:15).
A community of faith praises GOD joyfully, and a family of faith, or, an individual of faith, will likewise do the same. And even though GOD has tested us with all kinds of oppressions and burdens, ultimately, whenever we pass those tests, GOD will always bring us to a place of blessings and favor, and it will be because we have accepted HIS shaping for the task that HE needs our bodies, hearts, and minds to perform, here on earth (Psalm 66:10-14).
In Psalm 66:16-20 the psalmist gives us a personal testimony of what GOD did for him. He wrote of how he himself had cried out to GOD in a time of difficulty and GOD did deliver him from his troubles. However the psalmist reminds us that we cannot skip the first step in forming a right relationship with GOD, and that first step is to “repent” for the sin in our heart (sins we have carried out, or, are thinking about carrying out).
In the Greek, the word used for “repent” is “metanoia” (met-an-oy-ah), and in its most basic root biblical sense, it means to “reconsider”, or to “think differently” about. It means “to develop a strong compunction for, or a strong feeling of uneasiness that is brought on by a sense of guilt, or sting of the conscience”. And all these feelings of GODly sorrow must take place in the thinking stages, BEFORE we sin. It is, “a change of mind” in advance of acting out.
As Christians, the HOLY SPIRIT is embodied in us by GOD so that we do not continue to sin. The HOLY SPIRIT helps us to defeat sin while it is still in the thinking stages, and is not intended to be used to rebuke us after we sin, by saying “AHA, I caught you!”. The HOLY SPIRIT is given to us that we may not sin in the first place. JESUS says in Matthew 5:28, for example, that, “Anyone who even looks at a woman with lust in his eyes has already committed adultery with her in his heart” (NLT). And that my friends, is sin in the thinking stages, where JESUS says, it must be addressed.
When we become caught up in our sin, it is impossible for the human mind to distinguish weather we are sorry about the sin itself (repent), or, are we sorry because we got caught (regret). True repent is “a change of mind”, but it is a “change of mind BEFORE we sin, not after”. If we do it after we sin, we didn’t change our mind, we went through with it. GOD wants us to feel remorse about sinful thoughts, which are the prelude to actually acting out our transgressions.
If we wait until after we sin to feel remorse, the feeling that we are left with is not repent, but rather, it is likely, just regret, and we haven’t really addressed the heart issue. It’s like the psalmist proclaims here in Psalm 66, verse 18, “If I had not confessed the sin in my heart, my LORD would not have listened” (NLT).
When we cry out first to GOD in earnest repent, GOD will always listen to our petitions for help. HE will not ignore our prayers, and, HE will not withdraw HIS unfailing love from us. HE is a GOD WHO will answer the prayers of those who righteously seek HIM (James 5:16), by first, earnestly repenting of the sins of their heart, which are those sins that we are still thinking about committing, or those that may be hidden in our heart and can be brought to our minds later, because of our continuing struggle with our own sin nature.

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


Larry D. Alexander - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Friday, October 29, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary

For Sunday October 31, 2010
____________________________________________

SURVIVING THE DARK TIMES
(GOD’s power and glory satisfies us in desperate times)
(Psalms 63 & 2 Samuel 15:13-26)

It is believed, perhaps by most scholars, that, Psalm 63 was written by David during the time when he was chased out of Jerusalem, as a result of a takeover attempt by his son, Absalom (2 Samuel 15). After being separated from the “Ark of the Covenant” and his place of worship in Jerusalem, David tries to satisfy his longing for worship by praising GOD for HIS loyal love, while he was still lingering in a stressful situation in the wilderness.
Here David cries out because of his deep longing to experience GOD’s presence, which, over time, had come to be symbolized in the “Ark of the Covenant”, in Jerusalem. While in the wilderness, GOD causes David to realize that his soul can find satisfaction, through praise, from anywhere he may be, not just in Jerusalem, and not just in the presence of the Ark. GOD wanted to, once again, remind David, and his Israelite followers, not to worship HIM in a superstitious manner. GOD does not want us to treat HIM like a good luck charm, or, as idol god worshippers do, but rather, GOD wants us to see HIM as HE is, the omni-potent, omni-present, all-knowing, sovereign GOD of the universe.
Over the years, David and the Israelites had developed a habit by which they were treating the “Ark of the Covenant” like a common everyday idol. They had become very superstitious and wouldn’t even go to war without taking it with them, and on one occasion the LORD allowed them to suffer defeat at the hands of the Philistines because of the way they treated the Ark (1 Samuel 4:3-11). The Israelites kept changing their focus of worship from GOD HIMSELF, to the “Ark of the Covenant”.
On this occasion, however, while fleeing from Jerusalem, David seems to have finally learned the lesson that GOD was trying to teach them, and here (2 Samuel 15:25-26) he instructs Zadok to turn around and take the Ark of the Covenant back into the city, as this time he would trust in the LORD HIMSELF to save him, not the presence of the Ark.
During this dark hour, David finds a renewed confidence, and experiences a unique joy in the LORD, WHO always sees him, and knows his needs, wherever he may be. He once again becomes confident and even starts to anticipate a time when the LORD would rid him of enemies as HE always had in the past. And, even though his relationship with his family and the people of Israel was a bit strained at that time, his more important, personal, experiential relationship with GOD was not.
David realized that his confidence in GOD was based on his past experiences with GOD, and had nothing to do with the Ark. He learned that GOD’s love and care for him was something he could count on no matter what the circumstances were. And what GOD provided for him, in the form of spiritual sustenance, was much better than anything that life had to offer, in the form of physical riches.
In 2 Samuel 15, after ordering that his priest take the Ark back to Jerusalem, David says, “If the LORD sees fit, HE will bring me back to see the Ark and the Tabernacle again. But if HE is through with me, then let HIM do what seems best to HIM”.
David responded to his confidence in GOD with praise, and he expressed it here in Psalm 63, in two ways. First, he reacted verbally by telling GOD how much he appreciated HIM. Then, he accompanied his words with a physical expression of thanks, by raising his hands in a visual display of worship (Psalm 63:4). He chose also to dwell not on what he lacked, but rather, on what he had. He decided to be content in the midst of his difficulties, and to enjoy the rich “spiritual food” that GOD was providing to him, even there in the darkened wilderness, during the darkest of times.
A close personal, experiential relationship with GOD is what causes GOD to, not only bless us, but show us favor. It has nothing to do with Big Mama’s ring, or bible, that, we hold on to, because “she” had a close relationship with GOD. The Apostle Paul calls that kind of faith, in the Greek, “deisidaimonesteros” (dice-ee-dahee-mon-es-ter-os), which means “religiously superstitious” (Acts 17:22-23).

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


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Friday, October 22, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary

For Sunday October 24, 2010
____________________________________________

GOD RULES OVER THE NATIONS
(The Most High GOD reigns over all the nations)
(Psalm 47)

Psalm 47, like psalms 93 & 95-99, is an enthronement psalm that celebrates the universal reign of GOD, WHO is the CREATOR of the heavens and the earth. It depicts GOD’s coming kingdom, and it also calls for all people, believers and unbelievers, to pay special homage to GOD. And just like we give standing ovations to sports figures and entertainers, this psalm says loud and clear that we should give GOD a loud, roaring standing ovation, not just for a moment, but for a lifetime.
Today, many people talk about GOD, but few ever give GOD the credit for their success and accomplishments. Successful people believe in self-effort for the most part, and in fact feel, that the more successful they are, the less they need GOD. That is because, with every measure of success, comes an equal measure of pride.
It is said that, out of a hundred people that can stand adversity, only one of that hundred can stand prosperity. A person is judged by two standards when it comes to prosperity, one is, “how we came about it”, and two, “how we use it”. The question then comes to this, “Will we use it as if we have undisputed possession of it”, or, “Will we remember that we hold it in stewardship to GOD”?
Here in this passage of worship, the psalmist calls on all the nations of the world to not only give homage to GOD, but to do so, joyfully and willingly. GOD is the king over all the earth, not just parts of the earth. He subdued the nations with HIS awesome power, and then HE chose a “promised land” for HIS people to abide in as an inheritance.
The prophetic statements of verses 7-9 are expressions that are not at all uncommon to the Psalms. They speak of an eschatological certainty that every knee will bow, and that every tongue, believer and unbeliever, will eventually confess that JESUS CHRIST is LORD over all kings and kingdoms. And it gives a special confidence to current believers, that the truths of this psalm will be fulfilled in the process of time.
Psalm 47, along with 46 & 48 provide us with three consecutive poetic expressions that well emphasize the role that GOD has as our king and protector. For instance, the theme of Psalm 46 is that GOD’s people can have a sense of peace when trouble looms all about, “GOD is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).
The focal point here in Psalm 47 is on the importance of celebrating GOD’s benevolence and goodness to those who believe, and are committed to HIM. And finally, in Psalm 48, we see a reminder of how GOD extends HIS protection to the people, and, to the community that HE calls, HIS OWN, “GOD is in her citadels; HE has shown HIMSELF to be her fortress” (Psalm 48:3).
Psalm 47 is one of the scriptures that are included in the Jewish celebrations of “Rosh Hashanah”, the Jewish New Year. It is also known as the “Feast of Trumpets”, which finds its origins in the book of Leviticus chapter 23, verses 23-25. It is observed in our month of September.
The psalmist envisions a time when the LORD will ascend to HIS throne, perhaps on the temple mount in Jerusalem, to begin HIS millennial reign here on earth, following the “Day of the LORD”. Our response, as a believing people, should be one of adoration and praise, accompanied by the blowing of trumpets, as we express our honor and reverence for JESUS, the ONE WHO came and saved us from ourselves, by way of HIS vicarious sacrifice.

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


Larry D. Alexander - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Friday, October 15, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary

For Sunday October 17, 2010
____________________________________________

GOD IS MY REFUGE
(GOD is our safe place)
(Psalm 46)

In Psalm 46, a psalm of the descendants of Korah, the psalmist praises GOD for HIS current help and presence, and, for HIS future peace, which is yet to be established. He presents GOD as the only sure defense and safe haven that believers have to protect us in the times of trouble, which surely awaits us, just around the next bend of our Christian walk.
As human beings, we often look for relief from our troubles through such things as drugs, alcohol, sex, pornography, overeating, and various other spiritually and physically unhealthy means. Here the psalmist reminds us that GOD is our continuing refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. When we trust in GOD, and believe GOD, we need not fear anything in man or nature.
In the Hebrew, the word used for “refuge” here in verse 1, is “machceh” (makh-seh), and it is “shelter from danger, or, “a place of hope and trust”. We can find safety and courage, by trusting in GOD, WHO is ever present to help us, and GOD is big enough to deliver us from any perils, real or imagined. There is no trouble or problem that we can have that is larger than our CREATOR, GOD, WHO is the great problem solver.
Surrounding one’s self with GOD, and relying on HIS strength, is a wise thing to do. When GOD is our shield of protection, safeness becomes a given. The most dangerous of places in the world are safe for the person who has petitioned GOD to walk the beat. GOD is able to constantly keep watch for us twenty four hours a day, and HIS army of angels are stronger than any army here on earth.
Against the backdrop of national and natural chaos, Psalm 46 expresses deep confidence in the provision and protection of GOD. It may have well been written as a result of the gloomy situation that King Hezekiah and Jerusalem found themselves in, while under siege from King Sennacherib and the Assyrian Army (2 Kings 19). There we see GOD ultimately miraculously delivering Jerusalem from the hands of the Assyrians by slaying a huge portion of the Assyrian army (185,000), and causing the rest to retreat back into their own land. It has been rightly said that if we have a healthy, holy, biblical fear and reverence for GOD, we don’t need to waste our energies fearing anything else.
In verse 1 the psalmist uses three words to depict the protection that GOD provides for those who believe on HIM, they are “refuge”, “strength”, and “help”. The Hebrew word for “refuge” depicts the basic ideology of shelter, say, for example, using the anthropomorphism, “finding shelter under the wings of GOD, both physically and spiritually, as a baby eaglet would find shelter under the wings of its mother”.
The physical dangers that we face daily are certainly serious undertakings, however, the spiritual dangers that we face can be much more devastating for us, particularly in the long run. In order for us to overcome the world as CHRIST did, we are going to need GOD’s help and strength, as well as HIS refuge. The storms of life are many, but the word of GOD gives this promise to those who believe on HIM and endure the sufferings of the world to the end. It is this Old Testament promise that is given to us by GOD, through HIS prophet Isaiah, and it states, “GOD will keep in perfect peace, the mind that stays on HIM, because it trusts HIM” (Isaiah 26:3). Amen.

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


Larry D. Alexander - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Friday, October 8, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary

For Sunday October 10, 2010
____________________________________________

GOD’S CREATION AND LAW SUSTAINS US
(GOD’s natural & specific revelations prompt self-examination)
(Psalms 19)

The Book of Psalms contains 150 lyric poems that deeply enrich our understanding of our own humanity, and, our own personal relationship with the GOD WHO created us. The wonderful messages of this timeless book exposes how deeply GOD cares about the sinful circumstances of our life experiences, and how those circumstances manifest themselves in our emotional reactions to those life experiences.
In the Hebrew, the word used for “psalm” is “mismowr” (miz-more), and it is simply a poem that has been set to music. From the beginning this beautiful collection of poetry has played an important role in worship, and during David’s reign, these psalms were regularly sang by believers while they were in Jerusalem attending the major festivals, and, during daily worship services, both private and corporate.
Revelation, is primarily “the giving and reception of information that is helpful and beneficial to one physically, spiritual, or mentally”. Man never seeks knowledge just for knowledge sake, but rather, for what that knowledge can do to make his life more worth living. It has also been GOD’s message to man, that, obedience to HIM, and life through HIM, is the only life worth living.
Psalm 19 shows how GOD, as THE CREATOR, reveals HIMSELF to us naturally, through the works of HIS hands here on earth (Vs. 1-6), and how HE, as THE LAWGIVER, reveals HIMSELF to us specifically, through HIS divine laws, morals, and principals, that HE has given us to live by (Vs. 7-11).
In verses 1-6, we see how the heavenly creation, the sun, the moon, and the stars reveal to us, the glory and power of GOD without saying a single word. They continue to speak volumes, by way of their very presence, to all mankind, all over the world, every single minute of every single day, and their message is equally intelligible to all.
In verses 7-11 the efficacious nature of GOD’s law is described by David. In other words, David lends a description of how obedience to GOD’s law produces a desirable effect in the lives of those who choose to follow it. GOD wants us, as believers, to be able to prove to the world of lost humanity through our behavior, that Christianity really does produce the best men and women.
In the biblical Hebrew, the word used for “law” is “torah”, and it stands for all written revelation of GOD to man. However, in this passage, David celebrates the specific statutes, precepts, commands, and ordinances that instruct us in living GODly lives.
And finally, in verses 12-14 we see a self examination by David. Only through a careful, constant study of GOD’s word, and a faithful keeping of GOD’s law, with help from the HOLY SPIRIT, can we keep away from sin. We can’t possibly know all of the sin that lurks in the human heart, but GOD does. HE can cleanse us from those hidden sins, and, HE can also keep us from deliberate sins, while, at one and the same time, keeping them from controlling us.
It is not until a person falls in love with goodness, that wrong things, will no longer fascinate, and have power over us. A right relationship with GOD is a Christian’s greatest asset. The person who loses their heart to the things of this world is the person most vulnerable to satan.
The end of all things is near, for each of us, personally. For, that is the warning in the messages that the ancient prophets, and New Testament writers and thinkers all leave us with. And those warnings are as valid today as they ever were, and so, the fact that we Christians cast everything over to GOD does not give us a right to sit back and do nothing. We still must get to know GOD as well as we can, so that we can defend the Gospel of CHRIST, and be able to perform successfully, the one job that CHRIST JESUS has given us to do, and that is, to personally and collectively, spread the good news of the Gospel to the uttermost parts of the world. And our faith must be like a solid rock, that resists the temptations of satan, and causes him to retreat, through our power in CHRIST JESUS our LORD (Matthew 28:19-20).

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


Larry D. Alexander - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Friday, October 1, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary

For Sunday October 3, 2010
____________________________________________

CARING FOR THE CREATIONS OF GOD
(GOD entrusts us with HIS creation)
(Psalm 8 & Genesis 1:26-2:25)

King David wrote in the 8th Psalm that, “When I look at the night sky and see the work of YOUR fingers, the moon and the stars that YOU have set in place, what are mortals that YOU should think of us, mere humans that YOU should care for us? For YOU made us only a little lower than angels, and YOU crowned us with glory and honor. YOU put us in charge of everything YOU made, giving us authority over all things, the sheep and the cattle and all the wild animals, the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea, and everything that swims the ocean currents” (NLT).
The, life of CHRIST, is the embodiment of the statement, “We must live like GOD, in order to reveal GOD, here on this earth”. In Genesis chapter 1, we learn how, from day one, GOD uses “divisions” and “distinctions” in order to fulfill HIS divine purpose.
For example, on day one, GOD separated the “light” from the “darkness”. On day two, HE separated the “atmospheric waters” of the heavens above, from the “terrestrial waters” of the earth beneath. On the third day, GOD separated the “land” from the “seas”. On the fourth day, GOD further distinguished the night from the day, by appointing the sun to preside over the daylight hours, and the moon and stars to govern the night. On the fifth day, GOD distinguished between the animal life HE created for the water (fish), and the animal life HE created for the air (birds). And finally, on the sixth day, we see GOD making HIS greatest distinction of all. On this day, GOD even makes a distinction in how HE created, or, in HIS creation method.
Here we see that, after GOD had created, all manner of animal livestock and wildlife that were to dwell on dry land, in dramatic fashion, HE changed HIS creation method when HE created man. Instead of speaking man into existence, or forming him from the dust and leaving him without spirit, as HE had done with all of HIS other animal creation, HE decided that HE would fashion man from the dust of the earth, in HIS OWN image, and then breathe into him, HIS breath, or spirit of life, embodying him with HIS OWN “Communicable Attributes”. Those attributes include Life, Personality, Wisdom, Love, Justice, Truth, and Holiness.
These same attributes provide us with the spiritual capacity we need, in order for us to fellowship with, and worship GOD. They are also the qualities we needed in order for us to reflect HIS image to others the way that the coming CHRIST would do. And they also equip us with the capacity to care for ourselves and GOD’s other creation, similarly to the way GOD cares for us.
GOD blessed us and instructed us to multiply ourselves, through the miracle of the wonderful reproductive system that HE has also provided us with, and, we were to subdue all of HIS other creation, and maintain the responsibility of dominion over it (Genesis 1:26-28).
GOD then set up all of HIS human and animal creation with an almost unlimited vegetarian diet (vs. 29-30), with only one distinction, or restriction, they could not eat of “the tree of the knowledge of good and evil”. All of these things were in place, by the climax of the sixth day of our LORD’s creative works.
In Genesis chapter 2, the author of GOD, Moses, tells us that, on the seventh day, GOD rested, or paused from HIS work, and HE distinguished and separated that day from all the other days, and, declared it holy (vs. 1-3). Man is forbidden by GOD from doing any work on that day, and also is forbidden from compelling his children, employees, or even his animals to work seven days (Exodus 20:8-11).
After Moses gives us an in-depth, detailed look at the creation of mankind (vs. 4-7), he then tells how GOD carefully shaped the “Garden of Eden” so that Adam and Eve would be able to use all of those communicable attributes that HE had given them, to take care of their place of residence, here on earth. They were to come in handy as they explored and discovered their love for beauty, their delight in meaningful work, their moral responsibility, and even their passion for invention (vs. 8-20).
When GOD fashioned beautiful Eve from the rib of Adam (the world’s first surgery), it let man know that he and woman would always share a common identity. They would always be equals sharing in GOD’s likeness and image, and, as husband and wife, they should always be distinct, and yet inseparable. They share an equal responsibility in caring for each other, and, for all of GOD’s creation.
We, as human beings, are to worship only GOD, love people, and use things. Those three things must always be kept in that order. And we, as men and women, must never lose sight of the fact that our commonalities, the divisions and distinctions of our physical forms and human functions, our earthly roles, and, our spiritual responsibilities of fellowship with GOD, are all invaluable gifts and privileges, that have only been given to us as GOD’s special creation, in order that we may have dominion over the works of HIS hands, here on earth.


A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


Larry D. Alexander - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Friday, September 24, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary

For Sunday September 26, 2010
____________________________________________

GOD’S STEADFAST LOVE
(GOD is faithful, loving, and just)
(Exodus 34)

The Ten Commandments still stand as GOD’s instructions to man on how HE wishes us to live our lives here on earth. These laws cannot be, and will not be disregarded, contrary to today’s seemingly popular opinion, or demonstration of that opinion, which is reflected through our behavior, even here in the good ole U.S. of A.
In fact, we experience the effects of our blatant disobedience to these laws, all over the world, every single minute of every single day, through the death, destruction, and decay that is allowed as a consequence of our sins against “THE GOD” that too many people don’t even believe exists. The nations that recognize GOD the least are clearly the nations that most often suffer severe, sudden, or ongoing catastrophes and crises, be they social, economic, or natural in their manifestations.
The good news is that, despite all of our blatant disobedience to GOD’s instructions, HE continues to demonstrate HIS unconditional love and faithfulness to a people that is sorely lacking in both of those qualities. HE gives us chance after chance to repent, and sorrowfully confess our wrongdoing, and start all over again fresh and renewed. And although many may take the opportunity to confess and start over, few if any remain faithful to their promise to GOD.
In Exodus 34, a new copy of the “Ten Commandments” is given to Moses, by GOD, to replace the original one that Moses had broken in anger (Exodus 32:19), after he found the people celebrating and worshipping the golden calf that his brother, Aaron, had made. GOD instructed Moses to make two more stone tablets just like the first ones, and then, return to the top of Mount Sinai alone. Moses did as he was instructed and the LORD appeared to him in the form of a cloud and called HIS OWN name out to Moses. Moses immediately fell to the ground and worshipped, and then, began to plead in intercession for his people, Israel, and as a result, the LORD accepted his petition.
In addition to re-issuing the Decalogue to Moses, GOD also renewed HIS “Mosaic Covenant” with HIS “chosen people”. The stone tablets containing the Ten Commandments represented a tangible token of GOD’s unique relationship with Israel. However, GOD also instructed Moses to write down numerous other instructions by which the people, who wished to call themselves “GOD’s people”, were to live by (vs. 10-27). GOD also wanted the people to know that HIS instructions represented a recipe on how we can remain close to HIM, and that, that recipe for living, was still binding as far as HE is concerned.
Moses met with GOD face to face, and no man has done that, before or since. Scripture tells us that GOD spoke with him as a man would speak with a friend, and, when GOD met with Moses on this occasion, HE sought to emphasize and stress HIS unfailing love and forgiveness for HIS most prized creation, which is, mankind. And, even though man had, and does, continue to disobey GOD’s will, GOD continues to extend mercy, compassion, and forgiveness to us.
However, GOD will not, and cannot allow sin to go unpunished, and there will always be consequences for the iniquities of man, that GOD will exact upon him, so that he will always appreciate the benefits and blessings that come as a result of making right choices instead.
What the LORD said to the Israelites way back then (Deuteronomy 11:26-28), HE is still saying to us today; “Behold! Today I AM giving you the choice between a blessing and a curse! You will be blessed if you obey the commands of the LORD your GOD that I AM giving you today. You will receive a curse if you reject the commands of the LORD your GOD and turn from HIS way by worshipping other gods” (NLT).

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


Larry D. Alexander - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Friday, September 17, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary

For Sunday September 19, 2010
____________________________________________

NO OTHER GODS
(Our GOD is a jealous GOD)
(Exodus 32)

The rebellious incident by Israeli idolaters, that is depicted in Exodus 32 at the foot of Mount Sinai, shows quite clearly, man’s desperate need for a priesthood and tabernacle system that helps him to keep a persistent relationship of friendship and fellowship with GOD the CREATOR.
The reason that the Gospel must be preached continually, is because man continuously suppresses the truth. After being out of church and worship services for only a short while (since they left Goshen in Egypt), the Israelites were already clearly out of spiritual touch with GOD, WHO had just recently freed them from slavery in Egypt by way of HIS many miraculous deeds.
In the very shadows of a rumbling Mount Sinai the people urge, and ultimately persuade Aaron, to built them an idol of gold, so that they could worship it, instead of GOD. Here in this passage we see that, being without good spiritual leadership, for only a few days, proved fatal to about 3000 people in the short term (vs. 27-28), and many, many more in the long run (v. 35).
While Moses was experiencing a spiritual triumph of sorts in his own rights, the people of Israel had plummeted to one of their all-time lows in their spiritual behavior. Like many Christians today, we often accuse GOD of moving too slowly to please us, and we either try to help GOD out, or, we simply change gods all together, as is the case in this passage of scripture.
Throughout the book of Exodus we see the ungrateful people of Israel reacting to GOD with unprecedented insensitive, rebellious behavior. And whenever Moses would encounter such rebellion among his flock, he would immediately intercede in prayer to GOD to have mercy upon his wayward members. In Exodus 32:11-14 and 30-32, Moses rightly did not base his prayer for the people on their own human merit. He, instead, asked GOD to do it for HIS OWN glorification. He asked GOD to consider HIS OWN faithfulness, and, HIS OWN commitment to HIS people, which flowed from HIS OWN good character.
And while Moses’ prayer did not really change GOD’s mind, for GOD’s anger against the Israelites was truly legit, however, his prayer shows GOD his genuine concern, both, for his people, and, above all, for his concern for GOD’s honor and glorification in the world’s sight (vs. 11-13). Moses’ prayer was effective because his motives were righteous. When we pray with righteous and unselfish motives, GOD is just to answer them quickly and positively.
And finally (vs. 30-35), to act wickedly is to do harm to ones self, and, to others. Evil violates GOD’s unchanging standards, which HE long ago set for HIS human creation. Evil causes “wicked acts”, and, evil is a consequential result of “wicked acts”. Idolatry is just one of the many “wicked acts” that man performs against GOD on a daily, minute-by-minute basis. Making wrong moral choices is what men without GOD do best, and we’ve already proven long ago, that, without GOD, we can’t do anything right, for too long.
As our moral ruler, GOD does not do evil, but rather, HE brings disaster upon evil-doers. And ultimately, when and if we repent, GOD is just and faithful to forgive us. GOD gave Moses a new stone tablet containing the Ten Commandments, after Moses had destroyed the first one in anger. And GOD re-affirmed HIS covenant relationship with HIS chosen people. GOD also re-emphasized HIS laws, which calls for us to worship only HIM. And while Oprah Winfrey and other prominent people try to tell us that there are many ways to get to Heaven, GOD’s word tells us quite clearly, that, the only way to come to HIM is through our belief in, and, our acceptance of, HIS only begotten SON, our LORD and SAVIOR, JESUS CHRIST.

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


Larry D. Alexander - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Friday, September 10, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary

For Sunday September 12, 2010
____________________________________________

MAKING A COVENANT
(Living in covenant with GOD)
(Exodus 20:1-21)

In Exodus 20, verses 1-17, GOD instructed the newly freed Israelites at the foot of Mount Sinai, as to how HE wanted them to live their lives from that point forward. This critical list of spiritual and moral instructions came to be known as “The Law”, “the Decalogue”, or more commonly, “The Ten Commandments”. It was a covenant by which the Israelites were to govern their lives in the land which GOD was about to give them.
In Exodus 24, verses 1-8, we see them accepting GOD’s new covenant as it had been given to them, through Moses. However, man could not then, and quite frankly, cannot now, abide by such a covenant, because our sin continuously interrupts our relationship with GOD on a daily basis. That is why, ultimately, it took the life of CHRIST to restore our lost relationship of friendship with GOD. GOD sent HIS SON JESUS to usher in to us, a new covenant. This covenant is far superior to the old covenant that was carved in stone some 1500 years earlier, and given to Moses. This covenant ushered in by CHRIST, is to be engraved on the hearts and minds of mankind forever, and is intended to make it possible for us to restore a right relationship of friendship with GOD.
The old covenant laws were given to us to reveal our sins and to show us just how far we really are from GOD’s excellent standards. In that respect, the old covenant could only condemn us for our lifestyles. The New Covenant, by contrast, brings forgiveness through CHRIST JESUS, and thereby, can only save us in spite of our lifestyles. It is, quite literally, a covenant of “salvation” that can only be given to those who voluntarily accept GOD, in all HIS fullness.
In the Greek, the word used for “covenant”, in all normal secular applications, is “suntheke” (soon-tha-kay), and it is “an agreement between two equal parties or entities, on equal terms”, i.e. a marriage, or a business deal or partnership. However, in New Testament Scriptures, the Greek word that is always used for “covenant” is “diatheke” (dee-ath-ay-kay), and it is “an agreement that is actually along the terms of a “devised will”. In other words, only one party draws up the terms, and the other party can either accept or reject the terms, or inheritance, that is offered. They cannot change or alter any of the contents within that will.
The choice of this word, (diatheke), is understandable, because we, as human beings, cannot enter into an equal partnership with GOD, and cannot be on equal terms with GOD for obvious reasons. We are only able to make a voluntary decision to accept, or reject HIS covenant offer, and cannot alter, or change HIS terms in any way.
Even in the secular world, we know that a will does not go into effect until the person who wrote it has been proven dead. JESUS, WHO is our HIGH PRIEST, first died on the cross for our sins, then, re-entered into Heaven itself, bearing HIS OWN blood to present to our FATHER GOD, as a sacrificial atonement for all those sins, past, present, and future. And with HIS sacrifice, HE purchased eternal salvation for all mankind in general, and all Christians in particular, once, and for all time. In short, JESUS is the mediator of the New Covenant that was activated by HIS OWN death.
In CHRIST, we are freed from the futile search for salvation by works, or by obeying “The Law”. We are now free to express the reality of a salvation that one can receive only “for free”. GOD is too rich to sell it, and all men, no matter how endowed with earthly riches they are, is still, too poor to purchase it.
The Ten Commandments paint a lovely vision of a just and moral society that man can never realize without spiritual intervention from GOD. In those commandments, and, in CHRIST, we see exactly what GOD is like. By obeying them, our lives here on earth, becomes undeniably better with each passing day. However, it is only through our acceptance of CHRIST JESUS, while we are yet living here on earth, will we be able to obtain eternal life in Heaven, with the GOD WHO sees us, and desires exceedingly, to save us, from ourselves.

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


Larry D. Alexander - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Friday, September 3, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary

For Sunday September 5, 2010
____________________________________________

GOD’S REVELATION TO MOSES
(The eternal GOD continues to reveal HIMSELF)
(Exodus 3)

Exodus chapter three tells of the confrontation of GOD with Moses, by way of the biblical Theophany, or manifestation of CHRIST, now known as “The burning bush”. Here GOD commissions Moses to deliver HIS Israelite people from out of the chains of slavery in Egypt. Verses 1-3 present the circumstances of Moses’ calling after he had spent some forty years in the wilderness of Midian tending sheep for his father-in-law, Jethro, near Mount Sinai.
During his first forty years of existence, Moses lived as a prince in Egypt, where he developed his leadership skills, and now his second forty years of existence has been spent as a lowly shepherd, where he was forced to learn about humility. However, the greatest and most memorable segment of his life, his final forty years, is still yet to come, because he is now ready to be used by GOD as the human instrument which GOD would use to set HIS chosen people free, and lead them in their exodus from Egypt. They had suffered greatly in the 450 years or so, since the death of Joseph, the son of Jacob, who had gained great favor with the Egyptian people during his lifetime.
Here in this passage, we see that, one day, as Moses was attending the flocks of his father-in-law Jethro, in the wilderness near the Sinai Mountain, an angel of the LORD appeared to him, in the form of a “burning bush”. Moses was amazed, because the bush was engulfed in flames, and yet, did not burn up. The angel instructs Moses, as to what GOD wanted him to do, regarding leading HIS people out of slavery in Egypt. He also instructs Moses to bring the people back to Mount Sinai, to worship GOD afterwards.
After much protesting, Moses reluctantly accepted the task that was presented to him from GOD that day. When he was a prince in Egypt, he was confident and sure of his abilities to lead any group of people. However, here we see an almost unbelievably humble man, greatly doubting he could tackle such a huge undertaking as the one that GOD was now assigning to him.
And so we see GOD’s plan of humbling Moses has worked. And now, Moses is about to learn something that men continue to learn today, and that is the fact that, it is by GOD’s strength, not ours, that we are successful in our struggles through the storms of life. Here we see that GOD has stripped Moses of an attitude of “self confidence”, and is now about to replace it, with an attitude of “faith and confidence in HIM”.
Through divine intervention, our struggles are made easy when we rely on, and believe in, the power of the only wise GOD. This book of Exodus, besides being one of the greatest adventure stories of all times, is particularly foundational in developing the Christian view of who GOD is, and also, in understanding morality and the nature of worship.
Moses must have deeply felt the stress of leading such a large group of unruly people out of the clutches of slavery. But his firm commitment to his calling, his steady reliance on prayer, and his eventual, total trust in GOD, lives on as an example for every spiritual leader to follow.
Remember, GOD does not forget HIS commitment to us, and we should not neglect our commitment to HIS covenant, that was ushered in by CHRIST JESUS. JESUS set the greatest example of suffering the world has ever seen, and we, in return, should set the greatest example of worship, service, and obedience to GOD, that the world has ever seen.

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


Larry D. Alexander - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Friday, August 27, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary

For Sunday August 29, 2010
____________________________________________

A BOLD WITNESS
(Be bold in your witness regardless of the outcome)
(Acts 28:16-31)

There is a great purpose for everything that is written in the Holy Scriptures, and the hand of the unseen, only wise GOD, is at the helm of it all. The door that was closed to CHRIST by the Jews is now the door that was opened to salvation for the Gentiles. Here in chapter 28, the book of Acts draws to a close with a loud shout of triumph as the gospel has now reached the center of the world of the first century, and is being freely proclaimed in the midst of the Roman Empire.
Three months after the shipwreck in which Paul and Luke had been involved in while they were prisoners traveling from Jerusalem to Rome on the Mediterranean Sea, they set sail on yet another ship that had wintered at the small, nearby island of Malta. It was a ship that had originated in Alexandria, Egypt, in northern Africa. The ship was said to have had “the twin gods” as its figurehead. They sailed from Malta to Syracuse, a city on the east coast of Sicily and there they docked for three days before moving on to Rhegium (now called Reggio) in southern Italy.
After spending the day in Rheguim, they hitched a ride on a south wind which carried them to a place called Puteoli, a seaport located on the northern shore of the bay of Naples. It is also the place where the city of Pozzuoli stands today. There they ran across a group of fellow believers who invited them to stay for seven days.
Puteoli was the final stop before arriving in Rome, and by then, all of the believers in Rome were aware of their coming. Upon arrival, many Christian brothers and sisters came to meet them at The Three Taverns, a well-known place that was located about 33 miles from the city, along the famous Roman road called the Appian Way. When they arrived in Rome, Paul was permitted to reside in his own private lodging, but he was still being guarded by a Roman soldier.
Three days after his arrival, Paul called an impromptu meeting with the local Jewish leaders. He informed them of his arrest in Jerusalem, where he was handed over to the Roman government, even though he had done nothing wrong against his fellow Jews, nor had he violated any of their customs. The Romans had tried him and found no cause for the death penalty, and thus, had to release him. However, the Jewish hierarchy protested the decision bitterly, and so Paul felt he had no choice but to appeal to Caesar, as he was also a Roman citizen (Acts 22:24-29).
And so, apparently, no accusations about Paul had been forwarded to the Jewish community in Rome from Jerusalem regarding Paul’s trial. Here in Acts 28:17-31, we see that Paul actually wants to meet with his people in Rome, not to complain about how he was treated in Jerusalem, but rather, he wanted to boldly preach the gospel of CHRIST to them, right in the heart of Rome, which at that time, was an extremely dangerous undertaking, and, he was also willing to do it while still a prisoner, bound in the chains of Christian persecution.
Paul wanted to express his deep concerns for his own people, and to also, share the same conviction that CHRIST had, to preach the gospel first, to the Jews. And like in JESUS’ effort, Paul’s presentation won very little positive response, and as a result, he felt released by the HOLY SPIRIT to concentrate on ministering boldly to the Gentiles in Rome.
Church history tells us that the Apostle Paul was eventually acquitted of these charges, on this occasion, and he went on to continue his ministry for a short time in other places. However, ultimately (approximately two years later) he returned to Rome, and at that time, he was re-arrested, convicted, and executed in close proximity to the Apostle’s Peter’s execution there in Rome, near the end of the reign of the Emperor Nero circa A.D. 68.

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


Larry D. Alexander - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Friday, August 20, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary

For Sunday August 22, 2010
_____________________________________________

GROWING IN JOY AND PEACE
(Put into practice, what you know about GOD)
(Philippians 4)

Paul’s letter to the Church at Philippi is a very warm and very personal one. He was beholden to the Philippians because they had been the only church to offer up financial help to him, showing concern that he might be in need. They had sent an emissary named Epaphroditus to Paul while he was incarcerated in Rome. It was an offering that came at a time when Paul was not even sure that he would live or die as a result of this act of Roman persecution.
Epaphroditus became ill and nearly died during this benevolent mission, in fact, his illness is one of the overriding reasons why Paul was writing this letter. He was sending Epaphroditus back to Philippi to continue in the work of the church there (Philippians 2:25-30), and wanted also to introduce his young protégé and co-worker, Timothy, who would be visiting for a while there at the church in Philippi (Philippians 2:19-24). Thirdly, he wanted to encourage those who were upset about his imprisonment and remind them of the active promotion of the Gospel that his imprisonment was causing among others. Paul felt that for that reason alone, they should all rejoice.
Throughout this touching letter we see the theme of “rejoicing” being resonated. For the Christian, to live is cause to rejoice, because GOD loves us enough to allow it, despite our continued disobedience to HIS word. To die in CHRIST, is also reason to rejoice, because, as believers, ultimately, we will be with HIM forever, sharing in HIS wonderful kingdom, because of GOD’s grace.
However, this by no means says that we won’t have problems and difficulties from time to time, for that comes with being a part of the human experience. And remember, even JESUS, WHO had no sin, had to suffer when HE made HIMSELF a part of humanity, as part of GOD’s plan to save us from ourselves. And so, even in our obedience to GOD, we will inevitably be involved with a certain degree of suffering.
In Philippians 4, Paul urges those who live in CHRIST to stand firm in that power. He pleads for harmony between two faithful Christian women, as they struggle with a mere difference of opinion, seeking to encourage them not to jeopardize all the good work they had done, by behaving in an ungodly way (V.1).
As Christians, we are not to render worthless, the value of a life that has been dedicated to the work of GOD, by turning on one another for reasons that are petty, and do not involve the violation of the doctrine of CHRIST JESUS. We are to fix our minds and thoughts on what is true and honorable and right, thinking only of those things that are pure and lovely and admirable in the eyes of the LORD. We must put into practice, those things that we have learned concerning GOD’s perfect will for us, and then, the GOD of peace, will be with us, because we are walking in HIS light (v. 9).
In the biblical Greek, the word used for truth is “aletheia” (al-ay-thi-a), and it is “that which is in harmony with reality”. GOD’s truth is to be communicated as concepts that are heard, learned, and received. However, it must be received as “reality”, rather than as “philosophy”, and most of all, “truth” must be seen in the teacher.
When “truth” is communicated to others, by those who exemplify the life that they teach about, then, is it likely to be put into practice by those who hear it. Then to, those who hear it, will be able to grow in joy and peace, because they then sense and discover, the joy and peace of GOD, that had been previously suppressed, within themselves.

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander

Larry D. Alexander - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Friday, August 13, 2010

WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary

For Sunday August 15, 2010
_____________________________________________

LIVING INTO THE FUTURE
(Live for your future in CHRIST, not in your past)
(Philippians 3)

The Apostle Paul was the first great Christian missionary and theologian, after the example of JESUS CHRIST of course. He was born and raised in Tarsus of Cilicia, as Gaius Julius Paulus, the son of a Roman citizen, under the strictest of Jewish tradition and Judaism. He went on to become the first man to clearly show the distinction between Judaism and the Gospel of CHRIST JESUS. He presented Christianity as the universal religion for all mankind, and clearly showed that it was not just a tiny little spin-off of Judaism, that had been formed expressly, for the benefit of Jews.
In his lifetime, Paul became widely known as the apostle of the Gentiles. He solved, once and for all time, the issues that arose concerning the problems people had with Christianity, and the biblical and non-biblical traditions of the Jewish law. While the other apostles, with maybe the exception of Peter, continued on with a practical attitude toward the law and Judaism, oftentimes not seeing far into principle, Paul, on the other hand, preached that the issue was very much different than Judaism. He insisted that the doctrine he preached concerning CHRIST was defined by the cross. In other words, Paul keenly felt that one either had to choose “Pharisaism”, or JESUS, or, quite literally, “Law” or “Love, as the ultimate revelation of GOD.
All of Paul’s known letters bear traces of the Hellenistic background from whence he came, and he most certainly obtained many of his Greek ideas through the medium of Judaeo-Greek, or, Hellenistic literature. In fact, a careful study of his letters gives us some idea of this societal element in his early life, due to his Jewish birth. They suggest Paul’s own youthful attitude toward the importance and responsibility of being born Jewish.
In Philippians 3, Paul sought to exhort, or urge with a strong appeal, that the church at Philippi would continue to rejoice in the LORD. He also warned of the work of the Judaizers, calling them “dogs” and “mutilators of the flesh” (a reference to circumcision) who continued to preach that one must become a Jew, through circumcision, before they could be saved.
Paul, however, had spent a lot of time preaching to the infant church that they should place no confidence in the flesh. In fact, Christians should place no confidence in their own effort at all, but instead, must only boast of their faith in what JESUS has done for them. The Christian must worship GOD in the SPIRIT, and thereby, experience a spiritual “circumcision of the heart” that can only come by knowing GOD.
Paul said that if anyone could have confidence in their own background and training, he could. He once held in high regard, his boyhood studies under the great first-century scholar, Gamaliel, at the famous “School of Hillel” in Rome. He himself, as a pure-breed Jew of the tribe of Benjamin, had been circumcised when he was eight days old. He had also been a member of the Pharisees, who demanded the strictest adherence to Jewish tradition and the Mosaic Law. But now he had experienced the priceless gain of knowing JESUS CHRIST, and everything else suddenly seems worthless by comparison. Before getting to know CHRIST, Paul placed all of his value on the things that he had achieved in the past, but now, he understood clearly that his future of eternal life with GOD can only be realized through he belief and confidence in what JESUS has achieved.
And so, like Paul, all Christians must press ahead toward the highest goal that a man can ever achieve in this life. It is a goal that can never be achieved through human effort, but instead, has already been achieved through the vicarious sacrifice of CHRIST. However, a man will never accept the free gift of salvation in his heart, unless he first, become willing to remove his love for the things of this world from his heart.
From the original Greek, the phrase translated “becoming like HIM”, that is used in verse 21 of this passage, is “symmorphizomenos” (sim-morph-i-zo-me-nos) and it means “being conformed inwardly through one’s experience of something”. The Christians must continue to work toward the day when they can be all that CHRIST died for us to be, and all that GOD wants us to be, and that is, more like HIM, and, with HIM. And it is a change that can only occur, first, inwardly, so that it can then be manifested outwardly, so as to have a positive, GODly effect on the lives of those whom we will be coming in contact with in the future.

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


Larry D. Alexander - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
WEEKLY SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON
An international Sunday school lesson commentary

For Sunday August 8, 2010
_____________________________________________

BEING IN CHRIST
(To be in CHRIST is to be saved)
(Philippians 2:1-18)

In Philippians chapter 2, verses 1-11, perhaps two Greek words sum up the gist of the Apostle Paul’s message to the Church at Philippi, “tapeinophrosune” (tap-i-nof-ras-oo-nay) which means “unity through humility”, and “sumpsuchos” (soom-psoo-khos), which means “together in spirit, or like-minded”.
Here, Paul writes of how his joy in his fellowship with the Philippians would be even greater, if they would began to exhibit more unity, by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one heart and purpose. This is perhaps Scripture’s clearest portrait of the humility that is called for by CHRIST JESUS.
Humility, in the biblical sense, is not a weak man’s surrender, but rather, it is a strong man’s rejection of all things selfish, and it is a desire to be actively and genuinely concerned with the needs of others (verses 2-4).
In verses 5-11, Paul uses JESUS as the great example, or standard, of what true humility in a Christian should look like. Here Paul tells us that our attitudes should be the same as CHRIST exemplified, during HIS three-year mission on earth. During that time, even though HE was GOD, HE did not demand, or cling to HIS to rights as GOD. HE took the humble position of a slave and appeared to us in human form. HE obediently humbled HIMSELF even further, by dying a criminal’s death on the cross, by Roman method.
In this supreme illustration of humility, JESUS willingly surrendered the prerogatives of deity, in order that HE may die for the sins of all humanity. It is because of JESUS’ great sacrifice, that GOD raised HIM up to the heights of Heaven and gave HIM the name that is above all others. And it is at the very mention of HIS name that, one day, every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that JESUS CHRIST is LORD. And it will all be to the glory of GOD the FATHER in Heaven. These statements by Paul (vs. 6-11) constitute a grand expression of Christology. In fact, it is said by some scholars that these verses are taken from one of the popular hymns of the early Christian Church.
Through our struggles here on earth, the Christian must be able to tap into GOD’s will for us, and thereby, shine brightly for CHRIST. Paul reminded the Philippians of how careful they were to follow his instructions while he was with them. And now, he was urging them to put what they had learned from him into action, and show the world, through their behavior, how GOD’s saving work is having a positive affect on their lives, and the lives of others. It is the brightness of our Christian light that sheds light and life on the Gospel message that we hold out for others to see.
We must set as our goal, a desire to gain certain qualities in life, among them being, a genuine interest in the welfare of others, a genuine concern for those interests that are CHRIST’, and a record of faithful service that we can point to as our witness before those whom we aspire to convert. And by following the examples of JESUS, or, by “being in CHRIST”, the Christian Church, by working together, will be able to work out GODly solutions to its own problems, and, they will be able to do so, without murmuring and complaining.

A Sunday school lesson by,
Larry D. Alexander


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