Old Testament reading: Jeremiah 49
As Moab gloried in vain over her high perch, so also did Ammon glory in her treasures and the riches gained from her well watered valley. But, as God promised to restore a remnant in Moab, so also did He promise the same to Ammon. Also, as Moab was joined to Chemosh, so also was Ammon joined to Milcom. Edom is the next nation to fall under condemnation. If one could take Moab’s pride in her lofty location and fill it full of steroids, he would have Edom. Verse 16 is paralleled in Obadiah 3-4… “The pride of your heart, O you who dwell in the clefts of the rock, who hold the height of the hill, though you make your nest as high as the eagle, I will bring you down from there,” says the Lord. No one is beyond the wrath and reach of God. Edom received no promise of restoration, only of total plundering (v 9), widowhood and orphans (v 10). The remaining curses of this chapter are upon Damascus (Syria), Kedar, Hazor and Elam. These curses upon Gentile nations serve to show that the Gentiles were under Divine law and answerable to God, even after the giving of the law of Moses, else why would God condemn them?
New Testament reading: Luke 22
“Then Satan entered Judas…” This phrase has been problematic for many Bible believers through the millennia. On this phrase, Albert Barnes commented, “It is not necessary to suppose that Satan entered personally into the body of Judas, but only that he brought him under his influence.” I would not even go as far as Mr. Barnes. Satan did not coerce Judas or forcibly bring him under his influence. Rather, Judas permitted it by his love of money (cf John 12:6). In like fashion, Jesus does not literally or personally live in our bodies (cf Romans 8:9-11, 2 Cor 13:5, Col 1:27). But when we allow ourselves to be influenced by His example and teaching, He is said to live or dwell in us. Neither will Jesus coerce or force His way into our hearts, for He said we must open our hearts to Him, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him…” (Rev 3:20). Both Satan and Jesus are knocking at the door of my heart. It is up to me, by the exercise of my free will, to reject one and accept the other.
Leave a Reply