24 Feb 2018, Gen 24 创24章, Separation unto Holiness 分别为圣
Scripture Reading : Gen 24
The father Abraham (1–9)
The servant (10–60)
The servant loved his master’s son and asked for God’s guidance. He knew how to “watch and pray” and discern God’s leading. He was not disappointed, for God rewarded his faith. Little did Rebekah realize that a small act of kindness would open up an exciting new life for her. “Make every occasion a great occasion, for you can never tell when someone may be taking your measure for a larger place,” advised Marsden. The servant talked about his master and not about himself, and he would not eat until he had given his message (John 4:31–32).
Praying the Scripture
- Just as Abraham wanted a bride for his son, God the Father elected to provide a bride for His beloved Son. Yes, The bride is the Father’s love gift to His Son (John 17:2, 6, 9, 11–12, 24)). Let’s pray that we bring joy and glory to the Son Jesus Christ.
- The servant acted by faith in God’s promise and providence. (24:27) He took time to pray and he kept his eyes open to see what God might do. In His providence, God brought Rebekah to the well just as the servant was praying. The servant did what Gideon would do years later, “put out a fleece” (Jud. 6:36–40). This is not the best way for God’s people to determine the will of God, because the conditions we lay down for God might not be in His will. We are to walk by faith and trust God to providentially guide us to the place we need to be. God is sovereign and he will accomplish His plan without fail. In any case, God accommodated Himself to servant’s needs (and Gideon) and guided him as requested. Furthermore, the servant was not led by feelings or impulsive acts but careful observations. In fact when he saw Rebekah, he was evaluating Rebekah to see if she would make a good wife for Isaac and he found her to be kind, pleasant, humble, healthy, and a hard worker. Watering ten camels is no easy job! Let’s pray that we are discerning and patient for God’s will.
- Before coming to conclusion, he asked one of the most important question: “Whose daughter are you?” (Gen. 24:23). The wider implication for Christian believers today before you settle down is “Is he/she a child of God? Let’s pray that we are always discerning.
经文:创24章
主题:分别为圣
父亲(1-9)
创世记中最长的一章所讲述的故事,竟是一个男人是如何娶得自己的妻子。这似乎很奇怪,但这章节已超越历史进入神学的概念。它代表我们的天父是如何为自己的儿子准备新娘。(太22:1-14)教会就好比新娘(林后11:2-3,弗5:22-33);在这个时代,圣灵正在呼召相信基督的人,“嫁入……耶稣”(罗7:4)。还有一件事,本章节强调分离。亚伯拉罕说得非常清楚,他的儿子不得娶迦南的女子(24:3)。摩西的律法不容许犹太男子与异教妇女结婚(申7:1-11)。今天的信徒也一样不得与非信徒结婚。(歌后6:14-18;林前7:39-40)。对于那些想要按神旨意来选择伴侣的人,创24是一个很大的鼓励。
仆人(10-60)
仆人爱他主人的儿子,并求神的指引。他知道该如何“儆醒祷告”并识别神的带领。神因仆人的信心,并没有叫他失望。利百加万万没想到一个小小善意的举动竟为她开辟了一条令人兴奋的新生活。马斯登建议:“将每一刻变成伟大的时刻,因你永远无法知道在什么时候,这一切会带你到一个更宽阔的未来”。仆人所谈论的是自己主人的事,而不是自己的事,他也不肯吃,直到他传好主人的信息(约4:31-32)。
用经文祷告
- 正如亚伯拉罕希望为儿子预备妻子,神也为心爱的儿子拣选预备一个新娘。是的,新娘是父亲给儿子一份充满爱的礼物(约17:2,6,9,11-12,24))。让我们祈祷,我们能为儿子耶稣基督带来的喜悦和荣耀。
- 仆人依靠神的应许和神的预备,所以他凭信心行事。 (24:27)他花时间祷告,并注意神可能预备的道路。当仆人还在祷告的时候,神就把利百加带到井边。仆人也做了基甸多年后会做的事,“把一团羊毛放在身上”。(士6:36-40)这并不是神子民了解神旨意最好的方法,因为我们所设的条件未必在神旨意。我们必须凭信心行事,并相信神的预备,来指引我们的脚步。神是有主权的,祂必准确无误的完成祂的计划。无论如何,神迁就仆人(和基甸)的要求并按仆人的要求指引他。此外,仆人也没有按感情或冲动来引导行事,他是通过仔细的观察来行事。事实上,当他看见利百加,他仔细评估利百加,看她是否会能成为以撒的好妻子,他发现她和蔼可亲、谦逊、健康、和是个勤奋的人。为十匹骆驼打水不是一件轻松的工作!让我们祈祷,我们能识别和耐心等待神的旨意。
- 在他得到结论之前,仆人问了一个极为重要的问题:“你是谁的女儿?”(创24:23)从广义上来说,今天的信徒,在确认伴侣之前应该也想想“他/她是神的孩子吗?”让我们祈祷,我们总在辨别。
22 Sep 2017, Lev 27 利27章, Vow 许愿
Scripture Reading : Lev 27
Theme : Vow
If you have ever found it difficult or impossible to fulfill a promise, the message of this chapter is for you.
In a moment of extreme joy or trial, a Jew might make a vow to God, offering to give Him something valuable in return for His blessing. (See Judg. 11:29–40; Jonah 2:9.) The vow might involve people (vv. 1–8), animals (vv. 9–13, 26–27), property (vv. 14–25), or produce (vv. 30–33).
Praying the Scripture
- It seems strange that this book should end with a chapter on vows rather than with an account of a special demonstration of God’s glory and holiness. But our promises to God must be as inviolable as His covenant with us. “Do not be rash with your mouth, and let not your heart utter anything hastily before God” (Ecc. 5:2). “It is a snare for a man to devote rashly something as holy, and afterward to reconsider his vows” (Prov. 20:25).
- The major lesson of this chapter is that God expects us to keep our commitments to Him and be honest in all our dealings with Him. We must not try to negotiate “a better deal” or to escape responsibilities. It’s good to give money to the Lord, but giving money isn’t always an acceptable way to express our devotion to God. That money might be a substitute for the service we ought to be rendering to the Lord. What Samuel said to King Saul needs to be heard today: “Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams” (1 Sam. 15:22).
- Finally, we need to remember that Jesus Christ paid with His own life the redemption price for sinners, and we weren’t worth it. He redeemed us not with silver and gold but with His own precious blood (1 Peter 1:18–19). Any sacrifice we make for Him is nothing compared to the sacrifice He made for us.
[1] Warren W. Wiersbe, With the Word Bible Commentary (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1991), Le 27:1.
经文:利27章
主题:许愿
如果你曾发现自己很难遵守,或甚至不可能遵守承诺,本篇章的信息就是给你的。
在一时极度的兴奋或试炼下,一个犹太人可能会向神许愿,承诺献给神一些有价值的东西,以换取祂的祝福。(见士11:29-40;拿2:9)。这誓言可能包括了人(1-8节)、动物(9-13,26-27节)、产业(14-25节)或农作物(30-33节)。
就算这人不能履行誓言,他不得反悔,也不得以较廉价的东西作为替代;他必须给祭司所估定的价值以外加上五分之一。本章告知祭司要如何估定价值,以确保所归给耶和华是妥当的,因为这笔钱是用在圣所的事工上。“估值”这词共出现19次。
话并不低贱;轻易许下的承诺可以是非常昂贵的。因此当处在极度的喜乐或悲伤时,我们理当小心,免得向神做出无法遵守的承诺。(见箴20:25;传5:4-5)是的,你可以以同等的价值赎回承诺,但切让神来估定这诺言的价值。
用经文祷告
- 这本书竟以誓言,而不是神荣耀和圣洁的奇特彰显作结尾,这似乎很奇怪。但是,我们向神许下的承诺和祂与我们所立约是同样有效的不可侵犯。“你在神面前不可冒失开口,也不可心急发言”(传5:2)。“人冒失说,这是圣物,许愿之后才查问,就是自陷网罗”(箴20:25)。
- 本章最主要的功课就是神要我们遵守向祂许下的承诺,也要与祂以诚相待。我们不应该向神讨价还价或逃避责任。向神奉献金钱固然好,但金钱并非总是向神表达忠诚最妥当的方式。这笔钱可能是用来代替我们应该向主献上的服事。撒母耳向扫罗王所说的话今日我们也要聆听:“听命胜于献祭;顺从胜于公羊的脂油”(撒上15:22)。
- 最后,我们要铭记耶稣基督以自己的生命为不配的罪人付了赎价。基督不是凭着能朽坏的金银等物将我们赎回,乃付上了自己的宝血(彼前1:18-19)。相比之下,我们为祂所做的任何牺牲都不算什么了。
21 Sep 2017, Lev 26 利26章, Obey and Trust 信靠顺服
Scripture Reading : Lev 26
Theme : Obey and Trust
Covenant(1–13).
Chastening(14–39).
God’s covenant included both blessing and chastening, for God will not share His goodness with rebellious children. Enjoying the gifts while insulting the Giver is both selfish and idolatrous. We should obey God, not to “deserve” His blessings or even to avoid His chastenings, but to show our love to Him and our desire to please His heart.
Confession(40–46).
Praying the Scripture
- In Leviticus 26, to obey God is to “walk in His statutes” (v. 3), but to disobey Him is to “walk contrary” to the Lord and despise His statutes (vv. 15, 21, 23–24, 27–28, 40–41). The word translated “contrary” means “a hostile meeting with the intention of fighting.” If I’m walking one direction and God is walking another, I’m moving away from His presence; and God isn’t about to change His direction! If I continue to walk contrary to Him, I’m going to have serious problems; for “can two walk together, except they be agreed?” (Amos 3:3) Let’s pray that we will walk with Him.
- “For whom the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives” (Heb. 12:6; see Prov. 3:11–12). Israel’s special relationship to Jehovah brought with it the obligation to obey His voice and glorify His name. “You only have I known [chosen] of all the families of the earth: therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities” (Amos 3:2). Privilege brings with it responsibility, and no nation has enjoyed more spiritual privileges from the Lord than the people of God. Let’s thank God for his love.
- Even in the worst situations, however, there is always hope; for the Lord is “merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin” (Ex. 34:6–7). His covenant with His people never changes; and if we confess our sins and repent, He will forgive and restore (Lev. 26:40; 1 Kings 8:33–34; Neh. 9:2; 1 John 1:9).
[1] Warren W. Wiersbe, With the Word Bible Commentary (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1991), Le 26:1.
经文:利26章
主题:信靠顺服
所立的约(1–13)
神在本章用了“所立的约”这词约有8次。这提醒会众他们与神特殊的关系,和其中所包含的责任。如果他们遵守神立约的条件,他们将得以留在应许之地,并享受神的祝福。今天,神没应许新约下的百姓应予世俗上的成功,但祂答应要与我们同在,并满足我们一切所需。
管教(14–39)
神的约包括祝福和惩罚,因为神不会与叛逆的孩子分享自己的善良。享受礼物的同时,却侮辱那位赐下礼物的既自私又盲目。我们必须顺服神,目的不是为了得到“应得”的祝福,也不是为了避开神的管教。我们顺服是为了表明对神的爱,并乐意讨祂的喜悦。
认罪(40–46)
一位满有恩典的神总是要我们与祂和好。这就是祂管教我们背后的用心和爱意(来12:1-13)。人可以违背向神所的愿(15节),但神却从不违背祂对子民所赐下的应许(44节)。神能不记念我们的罪,但却牢记自己所立的约!这不能成为我们犯罪的借口,而是要鼓励罪人悔改,归向耶和华。
用经文祷告
- 在《利未记》26章中,顺服神就是“遵行祂的律例”(3节),但违背神就是在鄙视主的律例、“背弃” 祂(15,21,23-24,27-28,40-41)。 “背弃”这词意思是“有意对抗的敌对”。如果我走向一方,而神走向另一方,我便逐渐远离了祂;然而,神是不会改变祂的方向!如果我继续与主背驰,我将面临严重的问题,因为“二人若不同心,岂能同行呢?”(阿摩司书3:3)请祷告,叫我们与主同行。
- “因为主所爱的,他必管教,又鞭打凡所收纳的儿子”(来12:6;见箴3:11-12)。以色列与耶和华特殊的关系随之带来的是听从神、荣耀祂名的义务。“在地上万族中,我只认识你们;因此,我必追讨你们的一切罪孽”(阿摩司书3:2)。特权总与责任并肩而来,而任何国家都没能比神子民享受更多的属灵特权了。让我们感谢神对我们的爱。
- 即使在最坏的情况下,我们还是可以有希望;因主“是有怜悯有恩典的神,不轻易发怒,并有丰盛的慈爱和诚实,为千万人存留慈爱,赦免罪孽、过犯,和罪恶”(出34:6-7)。祂与子民所立的约永不改变;我们若承认自己的罪并悔改,祂必赦免并与我们和好(利26:40;列上8:33-34;尼9:2;约一1:9)。
20 Sep 2017, Lev 25-26 利25-26章, The Land and Jubilee 土地与禧 年
Scripture Reading : Lev 25-26
Theme : The Land and Jubilee
Resources.
Rest.
There was also an ecological purpose behind these laws, for obedience to them would grant rest to the land, to the beasts who helped work the land, and to the people. Along with the weekly Sabbath, the two events reminded Israel that rest and work go together and that people and God-given resources must not be exploited.
Riches.
There was an economic purpose, for God had a concern for the poor and afflicted (vv. 25, 35, 39, 47). Had Israel obeyed the law of the Year of Jubilee, it would have helped to balance the economy, and the rich would have had difficulty exploiting the poor.
Responsibility.
Praying the Scripture
- The focus in chapters 25 and 26 is on Israel in their land. In fact, the word “land” is used thirty-nine times in these two chapters. The Lord’s statement in verse 2 (“When you enter the land I am going to give you”) must have been a great encouragement to Moses, especially after Israel failed to claim their inheritance at Kadesh-Barnea and had to wander in the wilderness (Num. 13–14). God not only gave His people their land and their food, but He also gave them special “times” to observe so that the land would not be ravaged and spoiled. God is concerned about ecology and the way we treat His creation. Like the ancient Jews, we today are but stewards of God’s gifts; we must be careful not to abuse or waste them.
- We have no biblical evidence that the Jews ever celebrated the Sabbath Year, in fact, the Bible indicates that they didn’t: “To fulfil the word of the Lord by the mouth of Jeremiah, until the land had enjoyed her sabbaths: for as long as she lay desolate she kept sabbath, to fulfil threescore and ten years” (2 Chron. 36:21). God sent Israel into Babylonian exile for seventy years in order to give the land the rest it needed (Jer. 25:8–11; 29:10). This suggests that for nearly 500 years, the Jews had disobeyed God’s law concerning the Sabbath Year.
[1] Warren W. Wiersbe, With the Word Bible Commentary (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1991), Le 25:1.
经文:利25-26章
主题:土地与禧 年
资源
安息年(1-7节)和禧年(8-55节,jubal之意为“吹角”)是基于两个主张:“地是我的”(23节)和“以色列人是我的仆人”(42节;55节)。地是属于神的;我们只是祂的管家。我们必须明智地使用祂的资源,为祂的荣耀而行,因为在未来之日,我们必须为所经管的一切作交代(路16:1 FF)。
休息
这些法律背后也有生态意义;若能遵守这些律法,土地、耕耘的兽禽和工人都能得到休息。随着每周的安息日,这两件事都提醒以色列人安息与工作是并齐的,而他们也不能剥削工人和神所赐予的资源。
财富
这也包含了经济效应的目的,因为神关心困苦贫乏的人(vv.25,35,39,47)。如果以色列遵守禧年的律法,这将有助于经济的平衡,而富人也不能轻易剥削穷人了。
责任
但最重要的就是属灵的含义;这律法提醒他们耶和华就是土地和百姓的主,而以色列有义务在一切事上信靠耶和华。他们不得在第49和50年播种,必须等待第51个年头的收成。这是需要信心的(18-22节)!
用经文祷告
- 第25和26章的重点是以色列在他们的土地上当行的事。事实上,“土地”这词在这两篇章共出现39次。主在第2节所说的话(“你们到了我所赐你们那地的时候”)必带给摩西很大的鼓励,因为以色列未能在加低斯巴尼亚拿下土地而必须在旷野里徘徊(民13-14)。神不仅将土地和食物赐给百姓,也要他们遵守特殊的“日子”,以确保土地不会被蹂躏和毁坏。神关心生态,也在意我们如何对待祂的造物。像古代犹太人一样,我们今天也只是神恩赐的管家;我们必须小心,不得滥用或浪费这些资源。
- 我们没有圣经凭据显示犹太人曾守安息日年;事实上,圣经说他们根本没守过:“这就应验耶和华藉耶利米口所说的话:地享受安息;因为地土荒凉便守安息,直满了七十年”(代下36:21)。神使以色列在巴比伦流亡70年,好让土地可以得到安息(耶25:8-11;29:10)这意味着在过去的500年,犹太人一直违背神安息年的律法。
19 Sep 2017, Lev 24 利24章, In the Presence of the Lord 在耶和华面前
Scripture Reading : Lev 24
Theme : In the Presence of the Lord
In this chapter, the Lord gave Moses instructions concerning three holy things: the holy oil for the lampstand (Lev. 24:1–4), the holy bread for the table (vv. 5–9), and the holy name of the Lord, which all the people were to honor (vv. 10–23). Three important responsibilities “before the Lord” (vv. 3, 6, 8) are given in this chapter.
Providing the oil(1–4).
Only God and the priests saw the light, but the lamps had to be kept shining, for there was no other source of light in the Holy of Holies. The purest olive oil had to be used, supplied by the people themselves. Do we today, as God’s people, help the light of the church to keep shining continually (Rev. 1:20)?
Presenting the bread(5–9).
Twelve loaves were put on the table each Sabbath, and then the old loaves were given to the priests to eat. They were a reminder that God fed the twelve tribes both physically and spiritually, and that they in turn were to feed the world the truth about the Lord.
Protecting the name(10–23).
Praying the Scripture
- Since there were no windows in the tabernacle, it was necessary to have light in the holy place so the priests could see as they ministered there. Every morning and evening, when the high priest burned incense on the golden altar, he was to care for the lights on the lampstand to make sure they would continue to burn. The commandment in Leviticus 24:1–4 emphasized two essentials: (1) the people of Israel had to provide the olive oil regularly, and (2) it had to be pure beaten olive oil (Ex. 27:20–21). Is your light shining continuously among your family, friends and neighbors?
- Not only were the people to bring the pure olive oil for the lamp, but also they were to bring the fine flour out of which twelve loaves of bread were baked each week. These were put on the golden table each Sabbath. What did this symbolize? Only the priests (the tribe of Levi) were allowed in the holy place, but the other tribes were represented there in two ways: by the jewels on the high priest’s garments (Ex. 28:6–21), and by the twelve loaves on the table. The table was called “the table of shewbread” (Num. 4:7), and the loaves were called “shewbread” (Ex. 25:30), which can be translated “bread of presence.” God was present with His people and they were in His presence in the tabernacle.
[1] Warren W. Wiersbe, With the Word Bible Commentary (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1991), Le 24:1.
经文:利24章
主题:在耶和华面前
在本篇章节里,耶和华给予摩西关于三件圣物的指示:点精金灯台的圣油(利24:1-4)、精金桌子的圣饼(5-9节),还有众百姓当尊荣的圣名(10-23节)。这里也讲述“在耶和华面前”须行的三个重要职责(vv.3,6,8)。
奉献圣油(1–4)
只有神和祭司才能看见油灯,但灯仍必须持续点燃,因至圣所里再无其它光源的存在。祭司必须用最纯净的橄榄油点灯,而油必须由百姓奉献。今天,作为神的子民的我们是否在帮助教会的亮光持续照耀呢(启1:20)?
献上圣饼(5–9)
祭司每逢安息日都要在精金桌子摆上12个饼,而旧的饼要给祭司们为食。这是要提醒他们神喂养了十二支派的物质和灵性需要,而他们也要依次以主的真相喂养世界。
用经文祷告
- 帐幕里没有窗户,所以必须有光,叫祭司事奉时得以看见。每天早晨和傍晚,当大祭司在金坛烧香时,他也要经理灯台,以确保灯常常点燃。《利未记》24:1-4的诫命强调两个要点:(1)以色列人民必须定期献上橄榄油,而(2)橄榄油必须是纯净的(出27:20-21)。你的光是否持续不断地在你的家人、朋友,以及邻舍中照耀着?
- 百姓们不仅需要奉献纯橄榄油,他们也需带上细面以制作每个安息日摆列在精金桌子上的12个圣饼。这象征着什么?只有祭司(利未支派)才可进入圣所,但其它支派是以两种方式被代表出现在圣所里:那就是大祭司圣衣上的宝石(出28:6-21),以及桌子上的12个圣饼。这桌子也被称为“陈设饼的桌子”(民4:7),而饼也称“陈设饼”(出25:30),可译为“存在象征的饼”。神与子民同在,而他们在帐幕里是与神同存的。
18 Sep 2017, Lev 23 利23章, Jewish Festivals 犹太人的节日
Scripture Reading : Lev 23
Theme : Jewish Festivals
The Sabbath (Lev. 23:1–3)
Sabbath was an important day for the Jewish people, and they were expected to honor it. To dishonor it meant death (Num. 15:32–36
Passover: Christ died for our sins (Lev. 23:4–5)
Passover is Israel’s feast of deliverance and the key passage is Exodus 12. The innocent lamb died for the firstborn; because the blood of the lamb was applied to the door by faith, the firstborn sons were safe. This was “the Lord’s passover” and the only means of deliverance that He provided that awesome night when the death angel visited Egypt. To reject the blood of the lamb was to accept judgment and death.
Unleavened Bread: separation from sin (Lev. 23:6–8)
For seven days following Passover, the Jews ate only unleavened bread with their meals, and they carefully cleansed all the yeast out of their homes (Ex. 12:15–20). Leaven depicts sin. Thus the putting away of leaven illustrates the cleansing of one’s life after he or she has been saved through faith in the blood (2 Cor. 6:14–7:1).
Firstfruits: Christ raised from the dead (Lev. 23:9–14)
The day after the Sabbath that followed Passover, which would be the first day of the week, the priest took the first sheaf of barley from the field and waved it as an offering before the Lord. It was a token that the first and the best belonged to God, and it was done before Israel reaped the harvest for themselves (Ex. 23:19; Neh. 10:34–37; Prov. 3:9). It was also an expression of gratitude to the Lord for giving the harvest and supplying their daily bread.
Pentecost: birthday of the church (Lev. 23:15–21)
This special day was also called “the Feast of Weeks,” because it was celebrated seven weeks after firstfruits. The word “Pentecost” means “fiftieth,” and since the feast was held seven weeks after firstfruits, it too was on the first day of the week, the Lord’s Day. Each Lord’s Day commemorates the resurrection of Christ, the coming of the Spirit, and the birth of the church。
Trumpets: the calling of God’s people (Lev. 23:23–25)
The Feast of Trumpets was held on the first day of the seventh month and ushered in the new civil year (Rosh Hashanah, “the head of the year”). The sacrifices for the Feast of Trumpets are listed in Numbers 29:1–6. The Hebrew word for “seven” comes from a root word that means “to be full, to be satisfied.
The Day of Atonement: forgiveness (Lev. 23:20–32)
Note here the emphasis on the people afflicting their souls (fasting, praying, confessing sin) and abstaining from all work. This is also a prophetic message to the Day of Atonement. After Israel is gathered to her land, the Jews will see their rejected Messiah, repent of their sins (Zech. 12:10–13:1), and be cleansed.
Tabernacles: the joy of the Lord (Lev. 23:33–44)
经文:利23章
主题:犹太人的节日
安息日(利 23:1–3)
安息日对犹太人来说是一个必须遵守的重要日子。不遵守此日将带来死亡(民15:32-36)。
逾越节:基督为我们的罪钉死 (利23:4–5)
逾越节是以色列获得拯救的盛宴,而《出埃及记》12章就是其重点经文。无辜的羔羊为长子代死;由于百姓凭着信心将羔羊的血涂抹在门上,长子因此得以保全。这是“耶和华的逾越节”,是耶和华在死亡的使者来到埃及的那可怕夜晚所给予的唯一救赎。拒绝羔羊的血同等于承受审判与死亡。
无酵饼:与罪隔绝 (利23:6–8)
在为期七天的逾越节里,犹太人只能以无酵饼为食,也必须把家中所有的酵母仔细地清洗除掉(出12:15-20)。酵象征罪。因此,除去酵勾画的是一人藉着信心在基督的宝血里得救后,洁净自己的生命(林后6:14-7:1)。
初熟的庄稼:基督从死里复活 (利23:9–14)
逾越节后第一个安息日的次日,就是一周的初日,祭司要将初熟的庄稼一捆在耶和华面前摇一摇献给耶和华。以色列人在为自己收割庄稼前先把初熟之物献上给耶和华,以表示初熟和佳物都归于祂(出23:19;尼10:34-37;箴3:9)。这也是他们向主在庄稼收成和每日饮食上的供应所表达的感恩之意。
五旬节:教会的生日 (利 23:15–21)
这个特殊的日子,也被称为“七七节”,因为这是在献禾捆为摇祭的第七个安息日后所庆祝的。“五旬节”这词的意思是“五十”;既然这日是在献上初熟之物的七周后举行,所以这日也是一周的初日,即主日。所以,我们每个主日都纪念基督复活、圣灵降临和教会的诞生。
吹角:神子民的呼召 (利23:23–25)
吹角日是在第七个月的第一天举行,并迎来新的一年(犹太新年,“头年”)。吹角日的献祭已在民数记29:1-6列出。希伯来文的“七”来自“充足、满足”的根词。
赎罪日:饶恕 (利23:20–32)
注意这里强调百姓们要刻苦己心(禁食、祷告、认罪),也不可做任何工作。这也是对赎罪日所做出的预言。以色列回到她的土地后,犹太人将目睹自己是如何拒绝弥赛亚、为自己的罪悔改(亚12:10-13:1),并得洁净。
住棚节:神的喜悦 (利23:33–44)
16 Sep 2017, Lev 22 利 22章, Fear of the Lord 敬畏耶和华
Scripture Reading : Lev 22
Theme : Fear of the Lord
The chapter begins and ends with the solemn admonition, “You shall not profane My holy name” (vv. 1, 32). In chapter 21, God warned the priests not to be defiled by the unclean things; now He warns them not to defile the clean things.
Defective serving(1–9).
It was dangerous for the priests to serve God if they knew they were unclean. They were insulting God, who knows all things, and deceiving the people who depended on them to present their offerings. The prophet Isaiah advised, “Be clean, you who bear the vessels of the Lord” (Isa. 52:11).
Defective sharing(10–16).
The priests fed their families from the sacrifices the people brought, and that holy food could not be given to outsiders, not even a house guest. It is good to be generous, but not if our generosity dishonors God’s gifts (Matt. 7:6).
Defective sacrificing(17–33).
Praying the Scripture
- Bible tells us to sanctify the Lord in our hearts (1Pe 3:15). How can we sanctify the Lord in our hearts by offering defective sacrifices to Him? How many times we give the Lord or the church what we do not want. We give the church things we do not want and have no use of them. There is nothing wrong about the idea of not wasting anything including food, clothing and materials things etc. But the Lord should deserve our best not what we do not want. The problem is heart issue. Let’s pray that we give our very best not the very least or the bare minimum to the Lord. In order to safeguard ourselves from this sin, we make sure we give over and above what is required in the Bible. Let’s sanctify the Lord in our hearts.
- Do we remember Nadab and Abihu who offered strange fire before the Lord? What about Ananias and Sapphira who lied to the Holy Spirit in the church? Let’s not take our service to the Lord lightly. As Ecclesiastes warns us, “Guard your steps when you go to the house of God (Ecc 5:1). Let’s pray that we have the right fear of the Lord to worship Him.
[1] Warren W. Wiersbe, With the Word Bible Commentary (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1991), Le 22:1.
经文:利 22章
主题: 敬畏耶和华
本章开头和结尾,都严肃告诫“不可亵渎我(耶和华)的圣名”(1、32节)。在第21章中,神警告祭司不得被不洁净之物玷污;现在,祂警告他们不要玷污圣洁之物。
有缺陷的侍奉(1-9)
祭司如果知道自己不洁净但仍事奉神,这是很危险的。他们是在侮辱那无所不知的神,也在欺骗依赖他们为自己献祭的百姓。先知以赛亚告诫说:“你们扛抬耶和华器皿的人哪,务要自洁”(赛52:11)。
有缺陷的分享(10-16)
祭司当以百姓所带来的祭物喂养自己的家,但外人和寄居在祭司家中的人都不得吃这圣物。为人慷慨是好,但我们不可玷污神所赐的礼(太7:6)。
有缺陷的祭牲(17-33)
神配的我们把最好的献给他。既然祭物所勾画的是将来的救世主,这些祭牲就必须是完美的。我们如此轻易献上自己所不要的东西啊!请默想玛拉基书1:6-8。
用经文祷告
- 圣经告诉我们要在心里尊主基督为圣(彼前3:15)。我们如果把有缺陷的祭牲献上,又如何能做的这一点呢?我们有多少次将所不要的东西献给主或教会?我们给教会的,都是一些我们不要或无用的东西。我们不想要浪费东西的想法是没错,如食物、衣服和材料等,但主配得拥有的是我们最好的一切,而不是些我们不想要的东西。这个问题在于心。让我们祈祷,叫我们能全然献上自己最好的,而不是最少或最低限度标准。为了提防自己陷入这个罪中,我们需要不断反复问自己圣经的要求是什么。让我们在心里尊主基督为圣。
- 我们是否还记得在耶和华面前献上凡火的拿答和亚比户?也记得在教会里欺骗圣灵的约亚拿尼亚和撒非喇吗?让我们不要轻视在主前的服侍。正如传道书警告我们的:“你到神的殿要谨慎脚步”(传5:1)。让我们祈祷,叫我们以正确的心来敬拜并敬畏耶和华。
15 Sep 2017, Lev 21 利 21章, The Requirements for Leaders 对带领者的要求
Scripture Reading : Lev 21
Theme : The Requirements for Leaders
Privilege always brings responsibility. If the nation was to be sanctified, the spiritual leaders had to set the example. God had a word for the priests (1–9), the high priest (10–15), and those who could not be priests (16–24). Note the admonitions in this chapter.
“Don’t defile yourself!”(1, 3, 4, 11).
Anyone who touched a dead body was ceremonially unclean, so the priests had to be extra careful. They were expected to mourn, but not like the hopeless pagans (v. 5; see also 1 Thess. 4:13–18).
“Don’t profane God’s name!”(6).
If we adopt pagan practices, people think we are worshiping pagan gods, and we dishonor the name of the Lord. “Hallowed be Your name” is the first petition in the Lord’s Prayer (Matt. 6:9).
“Don’t profane My sanctuary!”(12, 23).
A defiled or disqualified priest would profane God’s holy sanctuary, and God would have to judge. Holy men must minister in holy courts.
“Don’t profane your posterity!”(15).
Praying the Scripture
- Chapter 21 is the instruction given to the priests. They are to keep themselves from being defiled. In the New Testament, the Bible also gives us the requirement for leaders: an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church? He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. (1Ti 3:2-6). Let’s pray for our leadership that they adhere to these requirements.
- These qualities are not meant for the leadership only because the leadership is to set the example for the whole church to follow. Peter 5:2-3 instructs the church leaders to be the examples to the flock. So the qualities are meant for the whole church to follow not only for the leadership. Let’s pray that these qualities become our aims and that we work toward them as part of our sanctification.
[1] Warren W. Wiersbe, With the Word Bible Commentary(Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1991), Le 21:1.
经文:利 21章
主题:对带领者的要求
特权总与责任并肩而来。倘若一个国家要成圣,她的带领者就须以身作则。神对祭司(1-9)、大祭司(10-15)和那些不能成为祭司的(16-24)皆有吩咐。请留意这篇章中的告诫。
不要沾染自己!(1,3,4,11)
凡触摸死尸的便在礼仪上为不洁净,所以祭司必须要格外小心。他们可以悲哀哭泣,却不能像无盼望的异教徒一样(5节;亦见帖前4:13-18)。
不可亵渎神的名!(6)
我们若行事像外邦人一样,别人可能误以为我们敬拜的是异教的神,从而亵渎了神的名。“愿人都尊你的名为圣”是主祷文里的第一个求告(太6:9)。
不可亵渎神的圣所(12,23)
一个被玷污或不合格的祭司会亵渎神的至圣所,而神必审判。圣洁的人必在圣洁的院子里侍奉。
不可辱没儿女(15)
祭司是如此的特别;他必须迎娶处女为妻,以向国家确保他的头生的确是亚伦的后裔。凡有先天缺陷的儿子都不得在圣殿里侍奉,但他们仍可接受献祭的份。祭司所献的祭物是纯全无残疾的,所以他自己也需如此(利22:20-25)。神希望今日的仆人也是无可指责的(提前3:2,10)。
用经文祷告
- 第21章是给予祭司的命令。他们不得玷污自己。在新约里,圣经也给了我们当带领者的要求:作监督的,必须无可指责,只作一个妇人的丈夫,有节制,自守,端正,乐意接待远人,善於教导;不因酒滋事 ,不打人,只要温和,不争竞,不贪财;要好好管理自己的家,使儿凡事端庄顺服。人若不知道管理自己的家,焉能照管神的教会呢?初入教的不可作监督,恐怕他自高自大,就落在魔鬼所受的刑罚里(提前3:2-6)。让我们为带领者祷告,愿他们能坚守这些标准。
- 实际上,这些品质并不只限于带领者,因为他们做的是为教会作模范,让教会有榜样遵循。彼得5:2-3教导说,带领者需成为羊群的榜样。因此,这些素质不仅限于带领者,而是为整个教会而设。让我们祈祷,叫这些特质能成为自己的目标,并努力向此迈进,把它们看为我们成圣的一部分。
14 Sep 2017, Lev 20 利 20章, Capital Punishment 极刑
Scripture Reading : Lev 20
Theme : Capital Punishment
The ominous phrase “put to death” is found nine times in this chapter, for “the wages of sin is death” (Rom. 6:23). Chapter 20 is a list of offences that demand “death penalty.” But fear of death is not the highest motive for holy living. “I am the Lord who sanctifies you” (v. 8) ought to be motivation enough (Phil. 2:12–13).
Idolatry(1–5).
Molech was the Ammonite god whom the people worshiped by sacrificing their children on the altar or presenting them as temple prostitutes. The modern idols of money, possessions, success, and position have cost many parents their children.
Spiritism(6–8).
Idolatry and spiritism go together (1 Cor. 10:19–22). The increasing interest in satanism in our own day is frightening, and no Christian ought to joke about Satan or have anything to do with satanic practices.
Dishonoring parents(9).
This verse emphasizes the fifth commandment (Exod. 20:12) and repeats the law given in Exodus 21:17. (See Prov. 20:20; 30:11, 17; 2 Tim. 3:1–4.)
Immorality(10–21).
Adultery, incest, homosexuality, and bestiality are condemned, for these things are contrary to nature (Rom. 1:24–27). God created sex and marriage, and we should abide by His laws regarding them.
Praying the Scripture
- The Lord is very serious about the sin of idolatry and the sin of consulting the spiritual world. Christians are not to turn to mediums and necromancers, whoring after them, this is abomination to the Lord and the punishment is death (Lev 20:6). Let’s pray that we do not have any interest in the dark spiritual world such as dark magic, consulting the dead or spirits etc. Let’s us keep ourselves pure and focus on the Word of God and His Word only.
- For anyone who curses his father or his mother shall surely be put to death; he has cursed his father or his mother; his blood is upon him. (Lev 20:9) Let’s pray that we take this command seriously as we live in an anti-authority society and some of us even curse our parents. This is abomination to the Lord. It is a serious offence in the eyes of our Lord. Let’s learn to respect and honor our parents, because this is pleasing in the sight of the Lord.
[1] Warren W. Wiersbe, With the Word Bible Commentary (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1991), Le 20:1.
经文:利 20章
主题:极刑
“要治死”这一凶句在本篇章中出现了9次,因为“罪的工价就是死”(罗6:23)。第20章为我们列出了所有要判“死刑的罪行”。然而,死亡的恐惧并非是圣洁生活的最高动机。“我是叫你们成圣的耶和华”(8节)应当足以让我们朝这方向而行(腓2:12-13)。
拜偶像(1-5)
摩洛是亚扪人的神;亚扪人将自己的孩子献在祭坛上或赐给寺庙当庙妓来拜自己的神。今天的偶像如钱财、名利和身份地位也让许多家长们赔上了自己的孩子。
交鬼(6-8)
拜偶像和交鬼是并行的(林前10:19-22)。今日,人们对撒旦的日增关注是可怕的,而基督徒不得拿撒旦或鬼魔行为当玩笑。
不孝敬父母(9)
这节经文强调第五诫(出20:12),也重申了出埃及记21:17中的律法。 (见箴20:20;30:11,17;提后3:1-4)。
败坏(10-21)
通奸、乱伦、同性恋、人兽淫合都是神必审判的,因这与自然背道而驰(罗1:24-27)。神创造了性爱和婚姻,所以我们应该遵守神对此的法律。
如果以色列也如此行,她必会失去她的基业。 (弗5:5)。
用经文祷告
- 耶和华认真对待拜偶像以及交鬼之罪。基督徒不得偏向交鬼的和行巫术的,这是耶和华所憎恶的,必须治死(利20:6)。请为自己祷告,叫我们不对黑暗灵异世界如魔法、向死人或灵魂咨询等产生任何兴趣。让我们保持纯洁、唯独专注于神的话语。
- 凡咒骂父母的,总要治死他;他咒骂了父母,他的罪要归到他身上 。(利20:9)请祷告自己能认真对待这个命令,因为我们生活在一个反权威的社会里,而我们当中甚至也有咒骂自己父母的。这是耶和华所憎恶的。在主眼里是一个严重的罪行。让我们学会尊重孝敬父母,因为这是主所喜悦的。
13 Sep 2017, Lev 19 利 19章, You shall be Holy For I am Holy 你们要圣洁,因为我耶和华是圣洁的
Scripture Reading : Lev 19
Theme : You shall be Holy For I am Holy
God’s command for His people to be holy applies to us today (1 Pet. 1:16). The declaration “I am the Lord,” found fifteen times in this chapter, reminds us that He must control every area of life.
The home(3a).
Holiness should start in the home as we show respect for our parents (Eph. 6:1–3).
Time(3b).
All of our time belongs to God, and we must not waste it (Eph. 5:15–17). But we must also take care to devote special times to Him in worship and service.
Food(5–8).
Yes, we must eat and drink to the glory of God (1 Cor. 10:31). Our table should be an altar for peace offerings, but too often it is a field for battles!
Labor(9–10).
We should think of others as we enjoy what God has given to us. If He is Lord in our work, we cannot be selfish.
Business(11–13).
Making dishonest deals, telling lies, holding back money, and using God’s name to cover frauds are all out of the question when He is Lord.
Neighbors(14–18).
Unkindness, injustice, gossip, grudges, and hatred (note the sequence) are evil. “Love your neighbor as yourself” is the second greatest commandment (Mark 12:31).
Praying the Scripture
- When the Lord said, “”You shall be holy, for I am holy.” (1Pe 1:16) He means we shall be holy in every aspect of our lives. It is interesting the chapter covers wide aspect of our daily lives. From our relationship at home, the time we use, the food we eat, the work we engage in, the business deals and how we treat our neighbors. Is there any area of your life and beyond God’s control? Let’s pray that there is none. All areas of our lives are open to the Lord’s for scrutiny.
- The Lord is fair and compassionate. He commanded us not to oppress or rob our neighbors, not to owe the wages of workers (Lev 19:13). Furthermore, we shall not reap the field right up to its edge, neither shall we gather the gleanings after our harvest. We shall not strip our vineyard bare, neither shall we gather the fallen grapes of your vineyard. We shall leave them for the poor and for the sojourner. (Lev 19:9-10) Let’s pray that we will not push our workers or suppliers to their limit. Let them earn what is a fair and justifiable living for themselves. This is the Lord’s command.
[1] Warren W. Wiersbe, With the Word Bible Commentary (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1991), Le 19:1.
经文:利 19章
主题:你们要圣洁,因为我耶和华是圣洁的
至今神仍要祂的子民保持圣洁(彼前1:16)。“我是耶和华”的宣言,在本章节出现了15次,并提醒我们神必须掌控我们生命的每一方面。
家庭(3a)
圣洁应由家中开始 – 我们应当孝敬父母(弗6:1-3)。
时间(3b)
我们所有的时间都属于神,因此我们不能浪费时间(弗5:15-17)。我们更是要特别花时间来敬拜、侍奉祂。
饮食(5-8)
是的,我们吃喝都要为荣耀神而行(林前10:31)。我们的餐桌应当是平安祭的祭坛,但很多时候却变成了一个战场!
工作(9-10)
在享受神所赐给我们的祝福时,我们也应当为别人着想。如果祂是我们工作的主,我们就不能自私自利。
生意(11-13)
不诚实的交易、说谎、不发工资,并用神的名义掩盖诈骗都是万万不能的,因神是主。
邻舍(14-18)
不仁、不义、八卦、怨恨、仇敌(请注意当中顺序)都是邪恶的。圣经中的第二大诫命是要“要爱人如己”(可12:31)。
请仔细阅读整个篇章,并找出其它可实际应用的地方。
用经文祷告
- 当主说:“你们要圣洁,因为我是圣洁的”(彼前1:16),祂的意思是要我们在生活中的每一个方面都要圣洁。有趣的是,本章竟涵盖我们日常生活的许多方面,如:家里的关系、时间的安排、所吃的食物、从事的工作、生意的往来,以及如何对待邻居。你生活中有哪方面是神不得掌控的呢?请为自己祷告,在生活中没有什么是神不得掌控的,也没有什么是神不得审查的。
- 耶和华是公正的,且满有怜悯。祂命令我们不可欺压邻舍,也不可抢夺他的物,也不可拖欠雇工人的工价。(利19:13)。此外,我们不可在地收割庄稼时割尽田角,也不可拾取所遗落的;不可摘尽葡萄园的果子,也不可拾取葡萄园所掉的果子,要留给穷人和寄居的 。(利19:9-10)让我们祈祷不把工人或供应商推至极致,让他们也能为自己赚取公平及合理的生计。这是主的命令。