Faithful on Fridays Blog

Let’s grab our Bibles and turn to Revelation 1. My intent is to walk you through these first few verses helping you understand God’s purpose for allowing us ‘behind the curtain’: apocalypse (revelation).

John wrote this prophetic letter to seven churches who represent the complete Church in every place and for all generations. Even though as Americans we haven’t yet suffered persecution for God’s Word and our testimony of Jesus, many people have and need the unveiling of this book. There’s a blessing promised if you read it aloud, hear these words, and embrace them (vs. 1-3).

John declared grace and peace (vs. 4-5) from the Father, the Son, and the Spirit  describing His undeserved kindness and wholeness radiating throughout this letter. It’s vital we recognize God the Father, Who is, Who was, and Who is to come; He’s present tense, He’s past tense, and will continue to be there in the future tense. 

God the Spirit is called the ‘seven spirits’ who is before the Father’s throne. This description points us back to the Spirit’s character and purposes written by the prophet Isaiah in 11:1-2 and 61:1-4 each giving seven descriptions. The symbolic Sevens.

God the Son is described as the faithful witness who completed His Father’s assignment to become human in order to redeem us and His witness was God’s unfailing love but also His divine judgment. 

Jesus is the firstborn of the dead meaning He’s the preeminent, highest, or superior One above all others: He reigns supreme, even death couldn’t hold Him down.

He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything He might be preeminent. Colossians 1:18b 

People who are enduring suffering for their faith need to be reminded of those spiritual truths but also of a physical truth: Jesus is the ruling king over all national leaders throughout time. From Nero to Lenin, ISIS to Boko Haram (Nigeria), Mao Zedong (China) or Kim Il-sung (North Korea), Jesus is the Supreme Ruler of All and this letter reveals His supremacy over and over again. It doesn’t matter from where you’re reading or your time-period, The Revelation allows us to peek behind the curtain to see what’s coming and prepare ourselves and our families for however it will look (Luke 21:34-36).

After writing those truths John fell into a time of worshipping God for His love and freedom in Christ (vs. 6-8) and also declared we belong to an invisible kingdom and serve Him as priests with direct access to God. He closed this section by reminding us He’s returning with the clouds when everyone, dead or alive, will see Him and wail in grief (Zech. 12:10) as they realize He was truly the Suffering Servant of Is. 53. He began and closed this revelation with the same truth: I AM the Alpha and Omega, and I AM returning.

“Surely I am coming soon.” Rev. 20:22a

Let’s be ready.

The Tabernacle: Brazen Altar

Picture this; it’s the Day of Atonement, the one day of the year when the head of the house brought a lamb to sacrifice on behalf of his family. He entered through the gate and approached the burning, fiery altar picturing God’s wrath against sin. This is a place of blood and death, however, it’s also a place of God’s holiness.

This brazen altar, the largest piece of Tabernacle furniture, was a harsh confrontation between God and man. Moses was instructed that the fire should never go out, blood should be applied to the four corner horns, and whatever remained was collected and brought into the Holy of Holies by the High Priest. It’s a solemn ceremony. Fire and blood: those elements pictured the wrath and indignation of a holy God toward sin. That was true for the Israelites and it’s true for us today.

Altars are places that memorialize encounters with God and this burning altar served as a reminder that we were born sinners and deserve His punishment. Divine justice requires blood as payment, therefore, a death must occur. For a believer in Jesus Christ we can see the picture clearly. This ‘old system’ (Heb. 10:1-7) or lower story was a shadow of the final sacrifice for sin: the blood of Christ. Only perfect, holy blood would satisfy a perfect, holy God, in fact, only God could satisfy Himself. 

The brazen altar reminded the people of their sin year after year because no animal cleansed you permanently from your sin nature; this lower story is a picture, a foreshadow, of the cross of Calvary. Jesus, God Himself, would be the final sacrifice for those who believe. He is the Lamb Who was slain (Rev. 5:12) as John the Baptizer recognized:

As Jesus walked by, John looked at Him and declared, “Look! There is the Lamb of God!”
John 1:36 NLT

As we think back to this Old Testament worshiper we can identify with the feelings of sin and guilt as he faced the fire of God but also relief as his sin was transferred to the lamb. We are confronted every day with our sin but due to the great mercy of a just God we are forgiven. We have that same sense of relief as we remember the punishment Jesus endured in our place: an act of love,

“No one can take my life from Me. I sacrifice it voluntarily.” John 10:18a NLT

Oh, the great love that Jesus has for us. Who would do that? What king would leave His throne to pay a penalty for his subjects? Only the King of Glory, only the King of all kings. When we take Holy Communion we’re remembering the brazen altar and the burning anger and authority of God who had every right to damn us to hell to pay for our sin. We now approach this altar with thanksgiving and praise remembering the promise of life eternal spent with Him: the upper story.

Any good study includes a bit of historical background to help set the stage for the entire subject; let’s begin there.

What was happening in the world (lower story), the Roman Empire, causing God to give His servant John a series of visions to reveal His Plan for the end of time (upper story)? First of all, we know that after Jesus ascended back into heaven (some twenty years later) a vicious, even crazed emperor named Nero rose to power who ruled by raw fear. His own fears and suspicions drove him to execute his mother and wife without any proof of guilt and that same mindset became focused against Christians, a small community of people who were very different from his Roman world. He couldn’t understand their customs and traditions and felt threatened by their worship of one God and King: the promised Jewish Messiah. 

That was unacceptable to Nero since he insisted to be worshipped alone; his recourse was the fear of terrorizing punishment for those who wouldn’t obey his laws. He rid the empire of Peter and Paul’s voice declaring the gospel by execution and eventually had eleven of the original Twelve eliminated by various means of torture and death. Those deterrents, he hoped, would provide the fear necessary to silence any other voices. 

If that wasn’t enough another emperor arose named Domitian who took emperor-worship even further. Increasing persecution to unbelievable levels the environment for Christians became hopeless; that’s where the Apostle John enters the drama.

You remember John, brother of James, who were the ‘sons of thunder’? Jesus rightly named them knowing their voices would thunder across the Roman Empire. Herod had James executed early for his thunderous voice and yet John was protected and ended up being the last living apostle of the original Twelve. Even though Nero tried to have him martyred by boiling him in oil (historians record) John wouldn’t die. God had other plans for him and that drove Nero even more crazy. 

John was the disciple ‘who Jesus loved’ and was entrusted with His mother but also had witnessed the Transfiguration when Jesus was supernaturally changed right in front of the Elite Three: Peter, James, and John. That supercharged experience was only a foretaste of what God had planned for this apostle when he spent about 18 months as an exile on the Isle of Patmos. That’s where this mystifying and yet literal drama begins. 

Many commentators have written about the Book of Revelation over the centuries agreeing on little but there’s always harmony regarding one truth: Jesus Christ is the Victor! When those believers of the first century read John’s letter as he described his Spirit experience they found hope in the midst of their hopelessness. The theme that runs through this book is that even when we can’t see Him … He’s there. Victory is coming and His dominion will again rule; we will eventually be back in the Garden where we first began. That’s a promise.

The Tabernacle: Entrance Gate

Anyone who has been part of a ministry with a temporary meeting place knows the work that goes into set-up and take-down. When the set-up is completed there’s a sense of completion and fulfillment as the Spirit of God moves in your midst. The set-up and take-down of the Tabernacle of Moses was undoubtedly similar, a rigorous and yet fulfilling assignment for the dwelling place and movement of God.

This tent or tabernacle had only one entrance which faced east with a curtain hanging to the ground. Some Bible translations call this entrance a gate which leads us to how Jesus described Himself: 

… “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before Me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them. Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through Me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures.” John 10:7-9 NLT

As we look at the furnishings of the Tabernacle in this series, focusing on the lower and upper story, there’s only one gate (lower story): a foreshadow of Jesus (upper story). Worshippers coming to the Tabernacle were only allowed entrance through this one gate. Remember, Jesus is the upper story or spiritual gate.

“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through Me.” John 14:6 NLT

He was clear; there are not ‘many ways to God’ but only one way, one entrance, and it’s through Him, exclusively. That statement of truth is not politically correct but true nonetheless. When a repentant sinner came to the gate of the Tabernacle he entered with a spirit of humility, seeking forgiveness. That’s true of our Christian faith as well. Through mercy we are drawn by the Father and through grace we are accepted in Christ.

“No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day.” John 6:44 ESV

Ahhh, the last day. Interestingly, the entrance gate was facing east. Why is that important? It was another foreshadow of Christ. When He returns on the ‘last day’ He will set His feet on the Mount of Olives (Zech. 14:3-4) which faces the Eastern Gate in Jerusalem. Coincidence? I don’t think so. 

This week think about this one gate that leads to salvation and anticipate His return:

Lift up your heads, O gates! And be lifted up, O ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord, strong and mighty, the Lord, mighty in battle! Lift up your heads, O gates! And lift them up, O ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord of hosts, He is the King of glory! Psalms 24:7-10 ESV

As we complete these lessons it’s vital to remember the main theme: mashal, ruling and reigning with Christ. As we watch the news, lower story, our minds should be centered on God’s ultimate authority and His indescribable love for those who follow Him, upper story.

I say that because Chapter 29 focuses again on leadership in government as King Solomon anticipated the wicked rising to power (28:28) but reminded us the righteous increase as well. God will eventually humble the proud and the righteous will sing and rejoice (vs. 6): justice will win (vs. 26). 

The descriptions of the ‘scoffers’ sound very much like the rioting we witnessed recently in our cities (vs. 8-11): setting fires, full venting of arguments, rage, mocking laughter, and bloodthirsty fools. Our leaders need good advisors, ability to unify, and uphold the laws whether they agree with them or not. That’s righteous government.

I’m completing these lessons with Chapter 30 since I’ve already written a series on Chapter 31: it stands alone. Go to my website faithfulonfridays.com and use ‘search’; you’ll find it.

A man named Agur penned Chapter 30; his name means gatherer or collector. You’ll find he gathered many more sayings but his writing is different than Solomon. He loved lists, analogies, and he’s considered a prophet; he spoke for God. I sense discouragement as he began (vs. 1-3) but God responded to Agur with questions of His greatness that caused Agur to reevaluate and write a beautiful discourse.

Whether the lists are ‘two things’, ‘three things’, or four his point is made:

Every word of God proves true. 30:5a

I close with his warnings to the next generation beginning with verse 11; it isn’t hopeful unless you’re teaching your children well. This next gen that’s rising will treat their parents with contempt, be full of pride and arrogance, and care nothing about others. They’re a generation of ‘give me more!’ from their families and government; Agur compares them to a leech who’s never satisfied. Let’s commit to pray for this next gen to be God-fearing, walk with Christ, and be filled with the Spirit to stand against the ways and temptations of the world.

Agur balances the negative with the positive in verses 18-31 using analogies that cause you to think; they’re provocative, thoughtful, and insightful. His observations cause us to carefully evaluate our attitudes and opinions. This chapter ends abruptly with another warning against pride and evil; cover your mouth because anger produces strife. 

Mashal means you’re on the road to victory in life no matter what your circumstances look like, remembering to stay in awe of God’s character. His promises of wisdom in place of folly, peace instead of pressure, and righteousness in Christ are for those who will direct their gaze to Him. There’s hope for you and your family as you walk in His ways ruling over Satan’s hope to rule over you; you’re an overcomer, never forget that.

The Tabernacle of Moses

Introduction  

In the beginning God created man, planted a garden, placed him there, and brought him a woman to be his helper. He enjoyed them, had fellowship and conversation in that garden … until sin and separation entered our world. That intimate time with God was severed but have no fear; God had a plan.

Intimate fellowship with God began in a garden but continued throughout the history of Israel as they traveled back to the Promised Land from Egypt. That’s where the story begins; God’s desire to fellowship with His people continued but now it would be as a united group, His chosen people together at one time and in one place: at the Tabernacle. 

Have the people of Israel build Me a holy sanctuary so I can live among them. You must build this Tabernacle and its furnishings exactly according to the pattern I will show you. Exodus 25:8-9 NLT

This tent, the lower story, was described in detail by God to Moses on Mt. Sinai and would be His dwelling place on earth. God was manifesting Himself in our world, meeting with mankind again. We also see this in the New Testament:

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen His glory … John 1:14a ESV

Jesus, the Word of God, literally tabernacled among His people, however, that’s not the end; there’s an upper story. Now, by the Spirit, God is dwelling individually with believers again.

In Him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit. Ephesians 2:22

Do you see it? God’s desire remains, as it was in the garden, to dwell with His people; He loves us and enjoys spending time with us. With a little help we can find Jesus at every turn, in every room, and in every piece of furniture pictured for us in the Tabernacle, where God meets and speaks with man. 

It was necessary for this temporary tent to be movable, at a moment’s notice, and for the people to move only when He did; may we be so obedient.

Whether it was two days, or a month, or a longer time, that the cloud continued over the tabernacle, abiding there, the people of Israel remained in camp and did not set out, but when it lifted they set out. Numbers 9:22 ESV

Every aspect of this teaching will point you to Christ’s love since He remains the same. He desires fellowship so tabernacle with Him and allow Him to speak to you as you meet together. Join me in this cry of Moses over any trials or temptations you’re going through today:

And whenever the Ark set out, Moses would shout, “Arise, O LORD, and let Your enemies be scattered! Let them flee before You!” And when the Ark was set down, he would say, “Return, O LORD, to the countless thousands of Israel! Numbers 10:35-36 NLT

Most people would agree if they’d rather have a wound or a kiss: the choice is obvious. King Solomon used that contrast to discuss friendship: our first topic today. The truth from friends can hurt, sometimes it needs to, but Chapter 27:6-10 shows us they can also feel like the Holy Spirit giving us counsel. 

Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his earnest counsel. Proverbs 27:9 ESV

True friends are honest and loving, sincere and intimate but never operate from deceit, pretense, or flattery. We’re warned to recognize a faithful friend and stick close to him. 

Solomon continued by enlarging his circle of intimacy to neighbors; those who live close by give you many more opportunities to show God’s love and care. Friends and neighbors develop a sense of caring as Jesus portrayed in His parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:29-37). His words ring true today:

“Now which of these three would you say was a neighbor to the man who was attacked by bandits?” Jesus asked. The man replied, “The one who showed him mercy.” Then Jesus said, “Yes, now go and do the same.” Luke 10:36-37 NLT

After being rebuked myself by the description of a quarrelsome wife (vs. 15-17) I found another poignant or piercing point: Friends, neighbors, and family help each other like the sharpening of a tool. Let’s stay sharp and develop those deeply personal relationships.

Moving into Chapter 28 we find another seemingly hodgepodge of maxims, they don’t seem to fit together, but after reading them over several times I realized all the verses could be directed to the type of family that rules and reigns in life: mashal. Let’s summarize this chapter keeping our friends, neighbors, and family at the forefront of our minds.

• Righteous boldness (not arrogance)
• Understanding and knowledge
• Attention to the poor with generosity
• Obeying spiritual and natural laws
• Understanding true justice (what’s morally right)
• Integrity
• Glorious Triumph of the Righteous
• The value of confession and mercy
• Walking in the Fear of the Lord
• Strong work ethic
• Trust
• Humility not pride

Who doesn’t want all of those characteristics for their relationships? I hope you’ll read this chapter with fresh eyes even using it as prayer points because along with each positive attribute there is a negative warning.

• The wicked run in fear
• They have no understanding
• They bring shame to their family
• Their prayer is detestable
• They fall into their own pit
• Lack of prosperity and even poverty
• Calamity and punishment is waiting
• They stir up strife with greed
• There’s brokenness waiting

Let’s value our family, friends, and neighbors by keeping alert for opportunities to bless them thereby showing mercy, as Jesus said. We can teach the next generation by our faithful example.

… let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:16 ESV

Psalm 145:8-21 

You can usually tell when someone is talking about what they’ve never experienced, generalizations and vagueness, not so with our Psalmist David. He was a king writing about kingdom living in this Psalm from personal experience. When he declared that God is full of grace and mercy, slow to anger, and full of love it came from a grateful heart; he knew God to be true.

As I read and reread this kingly Psalm I was struck by the word all used sixteen times in this third part. 

• The LORD is good to all, 
• His mercy is over all, 
• all His works give thanks,
• all His saints bless Him,

and that’s just the beginning (vs. 8-10). It’s clear that King David saw God’s hand in every aspect of his life and kingdom desiring the people to share in his thankfulness. David saw displays of God’s glory and power in the kingdom of Israel and encouraged his people to broadcast them. 

New Testament believers also live in a kingdom; Jesus called it the Kingdom of God. David had a glimpse of this invisible kingdom when he wrote:

Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and Your dominion endures throughout all generations. Psalms 145:13a ESV

Living in the Kingdom of God includes all the benefits in this Psalm. Beginning with verse 13b we find that God is faithful in all His words. Did you get that? All of them, the entire Bible, entirely and totally true. God’s kindness is shown in all His activity. All who are feeling down (vs. 14) He is faithful to raise up, all saints can look to Him and He’ll provide, all His ways are righteous, and all His works are kind (vs. 17). All? Yes, all. It may not seem like He’s working for you, circumstances may seem bleak at the moment, but He’s there, right beside you, working for your good. 

However, there’s a stipulation, this offer is valid for all, yes, all who honestly call on Him (vs. 18). Humbling yourself isn’t easy or enjoyable but it’s a requirement to come before God and expect Him to hear and answer you. When we come to God in humility, acknowledging our sin and inability, it’s called ‘fearing Him’ (vs. 19). We’re not scared of the Lord but we are in awe of His power and grace. Grace is that undeserved favor God shows us when He works on our behalf and it’s humbling in itself.

David closed this kingly Psalm by promising that God will preserve all those who love Him and for that truth he praises His holy name. Friends, if you love God you obey Him and seek His will for your life because He’s trustworthy. That’s kingdom living, behaving like royalty, and it’s promised to last forever and ever. We only have a small taste of kingdom living now but when He returns it will be a kingdom that never ends. Let that truth get you through a hard day.