DAY 162
Old Testament reading: 2 Chronicles 7-9
2 Chronicles 7:14 contains the well known passage of national repentance for Israel. This text is often erroneously quoted in reference to the many problems plaguing the United States of America. Americans are not God’s people, neither have they ever been! God is no more or less interested in the United States than He is in Liechtenstein. This text is given to Israel specifically, for Israel was God’s only national people. Within the text is granted the promise of forgiveness of sins and restoration of national health and prosperity. Granted, things in the United States (or any nation for that matter) would improve almost overnight if biblical principles were instilled and followed by our leaders and citizens. But these transformative betterments would neither be miraculous nor remissive. Rather, such would arise out of what we might call “Divine natural law,” i.e., the inherent value in following Divine principles. Among these would include upright living and abstinence from various vices (gambling, alcohol, tobacco, etc), living within our means while saving for the future, loving our neighbor, etc. Another example is seen in our New Testament reading two days ago – One need not be a Christian to follow God’s instructions for marriage and enjoy the associated blessings thereof. We need to be careful not to misconstrue God’s relationship with Israel to nations and peoples today. God’s people today are in the church, which knows no race or national boundaries.
New Testament reading: Colossians
Colossians is somewhat of a companion to Ephesians. There are several similar and parallel passages and concepts found in the two books, but there is a different primary emphasis between them. Whereas Ephesians focuses on and upholds the church of the Christ, Colossians focuses on the Christ of the church (1:15-18). The preeminence of Jesus is the theme of Colossians. His is the preeminent kingdom (Col 1:13), which will break in pieces and consume all other kingdoms (Dan 2:44, 7:13-14). He is preeminent in creation, for all things were made by Him (cf John 1:3) and for Him, even the angels of heaven (Heb 1:6-7). His life and gospel are the preeminent philosophy (2:8-23). Christ is truly sovereign over all!
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