April 1st One Year Bible Readings

~ Click on this link for today's readings ~
Deuteronomy 18:1-20:20 ~ Luke 9:28-50
Psalm 73:1-28 ~ Proverbs 12:10

Wow, the past 3 months seem to have flown by...  It's now April 1 and we are officially 25% of the way through the Bible!  Give yourself a pat on the back.  High five God.  Your marathon pace is going great! 

Old Testament - In Deuteronomy 18:15 today Moses prophesies about Jesus!  "Moses continued, “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your fellow Israelites. You must listen to him."  These words of Moses' show that the coming of Jesus was not an afterthought, but part of God's original plan.  In Acts 3:22-23 Peter quoted this verse to show that Jesus was the long awaited Messiah, the prophet referred to here in Deuteronomy.

Bob Deffinbaugh with Bible.org has a great commentary on Deuteronomy chapter 18 titled "False Prophets" at this link.  One good quote from this link from Bob is - "False prophets play down the majesty and holiness of God. They try, as it were, to ‘bring God down’ to our level. They make us feel comfortable around “God” (or the “gods”), and they even seek to convince us that we can manipulate God to our advantage. The true prophets did just the opposite.'"  Think there are false prophets in our world today?

In Deuteronomy chapter 19 we read about the Cities of Refuge today.  An image is below for verse 11 - which did not allow one safety in the Cities of Refuge.... ""But suppose someone hates a neighbor and deliberately ambushes and murders that neighbor..."

An image is below for Deuteronomy chapter 20 verses 1 through 4 - ""When you go out to fight your enemies and you face horses and chariots and an army greater than your own, do not be afraid. The LORD your God, who brought you safely out of Egypt, is with you! Before you go into battle, the priest will come forward to speak with the troops. He will say, `Listen to me, all you men of Israel! Do not be afraid as you go out to fight today! Do not lose heart or panic. For the LORD your God is going with you! He will fight for you against your enemies, and he will give you victory!'"  This reminds me of a great lyric from Chris Tomlin's Arriving CD - "If God is on our side, who can be against us?"

New Testament - Today in Luke chapter 9 we read about the Transfiguration!  I read an interesting commentary that said Peter was suggesting that 3 shelters be made because Peter thought at that time that the faith was built on these 3 pillars:  The Law (Moses), the Prophets (Elijah), and Jesus.  Whereas, Peter later understood that through the New Covenant our faith is now built on Jesus, "a chosen and precious cornerstone" (1 Peter 2:6).

In Luke chapter 9 verse 46 today we read - "Then there was an argument among them as to which of them would be the greatest."  Hmmm.... think this sort of thing still goes on today?  :)  Sure it does, because I've participated in this sort of thing.  No, I guess I've never straight out argued with someone that I'm greater than them in the kingdom of God...  but I've thought it.  How sad.  How very sad.  Why sad?  Because if we consciously thinking about ourselves as being better than someone else, then we are spending precious time focused on the wrong thing in life - ourselves.  God calls us to love & serve others in so many more valuable ways.  When we are focusing on ourselves, and thinking we are all-that-and-a-bag-o-chips we are not loving anybody...   Praise God that Jesus teaches the disciples - and you and me today - that there is a better way.  Verses 47 & 48 continue - "But Jesus knew their thoughts, so he brought a little child to his side. Then he said to them, "Anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes my Father who sent me. Whoever is the least among you is the greatest.""

Bible.org's commentary on Luke chapter 9 titled "The Transfiguration of Christ" is at this link and commentary titled "Secular Saints" is at this link.

Psalms - Wow... Psalm 73 today is amazing!  I love it.  I actually had lunch with a good friend who said to me verse 13 almost verbatim - "Was it for nothing that I kept my heart pure and kept myself from doing wrong?"  It was so sad for me to hear him say this... but he obviously is not alone.  The Psalmist thought this too, and I imagine each of us might feel like this is at times.  Praise God that the Psalmist rallies, as hopefully do we, in verse 23 - "Yet I still belong to you; you are holding my right hand." And then I absolutely love where he goes with verse 26 - "My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever."  I can quickly think of people in our world today where this verse 26 is so applicable...  let us pray that those in time of failing health and spirit have God remain the strength of their heart!

Bible.org's commentary on today's readings in Psalm 73 titled "Is Your Spiritual Vision 20/20?" is at this link.

Proverbs - Proverbs chapter 12 verse 10 I kind of forgot was in the Bible - "The godly are concerned for the welfare of their animals..."   Great Proverb for all you animal lovers out there! :)  I'm an animal lover too... but as I know my weakness for even caring for plants, I have wisely not moved into caring for the animal kingdom in any way, shape, or form...   I probably should not put this out there publicly.  God may now put me to the test in this arena!  :)

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  How have the first 3 months of readings been for you?  Have you learned something new about God?  About Jesus?  About the Old Testament?  Are you looking forward to the next 3 months of readings?  Do you think this daily reading of the Bible is a good spiritual discipline?  Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today's readings?  Please post up by clicking on the "Comments" link below!

God bless,
Mike

Comments

[Maria]

I have been reading your blog regularly for some time though I have never posted. I have been reading the One Year Bible since January and I find your blog to be an amazing great tool in learning more about the daily readings. I appreciate all the illustrations since I seem to be the visual type of person. I've learned a lot from your blog! It truly encourages people to read the Bible more and more. This has been indeed a wonderful journey.

So today I wanted to say thanks for all the work you do in keeping this blog so well updated on a daily basis!

It's interesting to see how the more you read the Bible, the more you "get" it. When reading the Bible (even if we don't quite get it at first) we are depositing little seads directly from God's word into our brain. Later, the Holy Spirit can access these seeds when we need them in our life. If we don't deposit anything in our "brain account", we won't have anything in there to access from.

That's why I think reading the Bible is so important. It is a way to directly communicate with him without the use of the "middle man" like you said. And it helps us recognize true gifted teachers who teach God's word based on Bible teachings and weed out those who are "false prophets". It is through God's word that we can connect with him.

[Kristie]

I enjoyed today's readings, although as I started reading Deuteronomy I was also eating my breakfast (egg burrito). When they were talking about cheeks and lobes, I started the reading in Luke!

Anyhow, several things jumped out at me. One is the transfiguration (I read it in the ESV) when the Jesus was left standing alone, and Peter starts saying, "Hey, let's build a shrine.." Then they are enveloped in a cloud and God has "this is my son, listen to Him!" It just cracks me up. Poor Peter thinks he has this great strategy, and then God corrects him--personally. And the lesson is, Listen to Jesus! And how do we do that? But reading and understanding the Word! How exciting that we are doing that together here reading the whole Bible to gain a better understanding and overview.

I also enjoyed the Psalm today...

verse 23: Nevertheless, I am continually with you;
you hold my right hand.

He is with us...why? Because he holds our right hand. I see it as a picture of a father with a child, holding our hand.

Anyhow, I am sure you got similar observations on that Psalm. It's beautiful.

[Laura]

Re: The Transfiguration that, we spoke of in todays reading. Bible.org was very interesting today. The comment that Bob made "The spectacular never really convinces or converts anyone", is the reason that those who witnessed the Transfiguration of Jesus who were Peter, James and John give no gospel account of the Transfiguration. The Lord does not play up this miracle or the mount of Transfiguration.

According to Bob Deffenbuagh: Bob says ( I've copied and pasted this ) Observations
Before we seek to explore the implications and applications of the transfiguration, let us pause for a moment to make an observation about the three who witnessed this event. There were three witnesses to the transfiguration: Peter, John, and James.181 There are also three accounts of the transfiguration in the gospels: Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Is it not noteworthy that while there are three witnesses to the transfiguration, not one of them is a gospel writer? Matthew, who wrote one of the accounts, was one of the nine left behind. John, on the other hand, who accompanied Jesus up to the mount of transfiguration, and who wrote a gospel account, does not include the transfiguration in his gospel. I find this most interesting. If such a spectacular event were to happen today, we would be certain to have the “press corps” invited. Jesus did not do so, and He knew what was going to happen (cf. Luke 9:27).

I am not sure that I can explain why this is true, why Jesus would invite three men along, and yet none of them would give a personal account of the event. I think it is safe to say that Jesus did not capitalize upon or emphasize the spectacular. If He handled things as some religious leaders do, He would not only have had the twelve disciples along, but he would have had the radio, television, press, and a huge crowd of witnesses along with him as well. Jesus downplayed the spectacular, while we play it up. Perhaps we need to learn a lesson from our Lord, here

Bob makes 5 points that I found interesting:

1. The Transfiguration confirms the identity of Jesus.

2. His kindom is identified.

3. Clarification is made that Jesus is one who is greater.

4. The crown and cross are one.

5. God can raise men from the dead.

I encourage everyone today to read the commentary at the link Mike provided about the Transfiguration, you might learn something new.

[Ann]

The first three months of reading the Bible (as a group) has been so rewarding. Points that I had not even considered have been aired on the 'Blog Site' enriching my understanding. Many thanks to you all. Ann.

[Karen]

I believe that reading the Bible is a spiritual discipline that I need. I have to admit that I started out strong, but have fizzled out in the past month or so. I have picked up days here and there, but not consistently. I feel like Paul who said that they things he should do he didn't do and the things he shouldn't do were what he found himself doing. Thank you for the blog, I, too, really need the illustrations to show some of the important points, and look forward to insights in the blog that I haven't picked up from the reading. Keep up the good work.

[Bill]

I've very recently given myself to the Lord. Reading the Bible daily for the first time is having a major positive effect on my life.

Praise God

[Becky]

I can hardly believe it, but I've read the Bible every day for three months! It's definitely thanks to the structure and the motivation from this site. Although I've been a believer for a few years, I regret to say that I've not read consistently before, nor have I read much of the OT, except for Genesis, Exodus, and some of the "stories" here and there. Reading Scripture, the Blog, and people's comments has been great-- I've learned a lot!

Also, I was really resistant at first to reading Scripture in anything other than the King James Version. But I decided to borrow the One Year Bible (NLT) from a friend to see if it was easier than flipping back and forth in my old trusty KJ. And it was! And I started to really like the NLT! I bought one for myself and 2 for friends.

[Erin]

I think this is great and it's always a nice insight as well. Keep up the good work and may God guide you in all you do!

God Bless, in Christ, erinn

[Brandie]

To me the Old Testament is like reading a story, it is hard to explain. I can't really get into learning something new in the Old Testament but can. For example how many wives they had and who they laid with :o oh my goodness..and now it is still the same..with out the many wives..:)

The daily reading of the Bible is a good spiritual discipline because it makes me feel good about myself :) Makes the day go smoother :)

[HB]

But God remains the strength of my heart...Man, thats tight! No matter who the person is, the situation or circumstance rising up against me, I can say "but God." Because as long as He's with me, I know that He's takin care of me because He stays He on control. God bless u for ur amazing ministry. Your reward will be great in the Kingdom

[John]

Like Mike said, another good commentary from Bob. Everyone should read this commentary. You may not agree with the commentary, but you should read it - especially if you do not agree .

False Prophets, Part II
(Deuteronomy 18:1-22)

By: Bob Deffinbaugh , Th.M.

http://www.bible.org/page.asp?page_id=2398

(same link as in Mike's text)

[John]

Detestable Practices

Deut 18:9-13
"When you enter the land the LORD your God is giving you, do not learn to imitate the detestable ways of the nations there. Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the LORD, and because of these detestable practices the LORD your God will drive out those nations before you. You must be blameless before the LORD your God." NIV

The Hebrew word for "detestable practices is "tow`ebah" and is translated elsewhere as "abominations" meaning - disgusting.

I think the NIV is a bit nice on this point. Something detestable is bad, but has the connotation of "being able to put up with". Disgusting on the other hand "turns your stomach", makes you pale to look at, or is just plain horrible.

God is very patient and tolerant until a person or people reach a certain level of sin. When that level is reached - judgment is pronounced on them. Such were the seven tribes inhabiting Canaan.

Besides the rejection of God, the diseases that were probably rampant in these nation states, it may be that it was pure evil that these people lived under as a Code of life.

In this sense it may be understandable why God said all must be destroyed. That way the Israelites would not be physically or spiritually polluted.

[Jenny]

I see in Deut today the Bible discusses evil such as physics, fortune-tellers, contacting the dead etc. Some Christians seem unsure about this. When i was in the world i went to a psychic (she was wrong!) n considered contacting the dead, my best friend had died and i was desperate, though i knew it was wrong and my Christian upbringing kept me from it. I later learned if someone does contact the dead via juiji board, seance, (n its not fake) you are not contacting your loved one but rather a demon impersonating ur loved one. scary! I'll stay away from that. Astrology, horoscopes, witchcraft (Paganism, Wicca) is all extremely evil and we as God's children should not go near that. You never want to open a door to invite that in your life. v 14: "the Lord your God forbids you to do such things.”

Man, there are false prophets right and left. Many prominent ppl today. As Christians we need discernment....is their practices of the Bible? Do they have a scriptual basis for what they say? Do they seek to add or take away from the Woord of God? I was listening to Pastors' Perspective, a call-in Christian radio show, about the Emerging Church...stay away from that, it brings confusion to ppl, including many weaker Christians...it also seems to be the gateway for the emergence of the one-world-church spoken of in the end times. At church tonight the Pastor was discussing that the US may go to war with Iran in the summer and this could be the battle spoken of (i believe its in the book of revelation) the war that comes against Israel and this is pretty much signifying that the return of Jesus is right around the corner...but we know 7 yrs b4 His return, the church will be raptured. God's wrath is about to be poured out...definitely on the US, we know Hollywood is the home to all the pornographic smut, etc...and we are spreading it world-wide. But God will not pour out His wrath until His bride (the church...the TRUE church is taken up!)

In Luke we read about Elijah and Moses with Jesus...perhaps comforting Him, strengthening Him concerning His upcoming crucifixion. These two men may very well be the two witnesses that will appear during the Great Trib..we know one is Elijah. Years ago ppl wondered, how on earth can the whole world see these two witnesses be killed and rise again on day 3. well with the internet and cable, we see its definitely possible.

Who will be the greatest in the kingdom....if we are honest with ourselves, we will know we are sinners and its ONLY by God's grace, Jesus' righteousness imparted to us that allows access to God and eternal life. Nothing we do or say...i honestly have never thought of myself being great in the Kingdom of God..the thought makes me laugh!

Wow!! I LOVE Ps 73!!:
Truly God is good to Israel,
to those whose hearts are pure.
2 But as for me, I almost lost my footing.
My feet were slipping, and I was almost gone.
3 For I envied the proud
when I saw them prosper despite their wickedness.
4 They seem to live such painless lives;
their bodies are so healthy and strong.
5 They don’t have troubles like other people;
they’re not plagued with problems like everyone else.
6 They wear pride like a jeweled necklace
and clothe themselves with cruelty.
7 These fat cats have everything
their hearts could ever wish for!
8 They scoff and speak only evil;
in their pride they seek to crush others.
9 They boast against the very heavens,
and their words strut throughout the earth.
12 Look at these wicked people—
enjoying a life of ease while their riches multiply.
13 Did I keep my heart pure for nothing?
Did I keep myself innocent for no reason?
14 I get nothing but trouble all day long;
every morning brings me pain.

I am soooo feeling that!!! "I get nothing but trouble all day long; every morning brings me pain."

16 So I tried to understand why the wicked prosper.
But what a difficult task it is!
17 Then I went into your sanctuary, O God,
and I finally understood the destiny of the wicked.

verrrry powerful! I heard a sermon on this once and it opened my eyes so much!

21 Then I realized that my heart was bitter,
and I was all torn up inside.
22 I was so foolish and ignorant—
I must have seemed like a senseless animal to you.
23 Yet I still belong to you;
you hold my right hand.
24 You guide me with your counsel,
leading me to a glorious destiny.
25 Whom have I in heaven but you?
I desire you more than anything on earth.

amen, i am feeling this!!!

28 But as for me, how good it is to be near God! (another Amen!)

Concerning proverbs...i do see many ungodly who love their animals...But I am definitely an animal lover!!!! I have loved all my pets; cats, dog, rats, etc, sooo much. I truly believe pets and animals are a gift from God to us! I lok forward to getting a couple rats soon, my living situation doesnt permit cats or dogs. Also have been a vegetarian for nearly 17 yrs. God just gave me a sensitive heart for them. Of course i know eating animal carcus isnt a sin, but i personally cant do it. But during the millennial reign, all animals will be vegetarian, the lion will lie down with the lamb...I'm assuming we will be vegetarian. that makes me happy! So this is to say murdering animals didnt begin until sin entered the world....part of the curse.

Ok, those are my daily tangents. :p