11/12- John 1:19-28- John's identity

(John the Baptist Isaac Dutch 1569-1625)
Daily devotional from the Gospels, Calvin and thoughts for our day.

11/12- John 1:19-28
19 Now this was John's testimony when the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to ask him who he was. 20 He did not fail to confess, but confessed freely, "I am not the Messiah." 21 They asked him, "Then who are you? Are you Elijah?"
He said, "I am not." "Are you the Prophet?" He answered, "No." 22 Finally they said, "Who are you? Give us an answer to take back to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?" 23 John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, "I am the voice of one calling in the wilderness, 'Make straight the way for the Lord.' " 24 Now the Pharisees who had been sent 25 questioned him, "Why then do you baptize if you are not the Messiah, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?" 26 "I baptize with water," John replied, "but among you stands one you do not know. 27 He is the one who comes after me, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie." 28 This all happened at Bethany on the other side of the Jordan, where John was baptizing.

Calvin abridged: Here John openly confesses to the priest’s delegation his purpose. It had been a long time since they had prophets, and everyone was thinking about the Messiah’s coming. That they did not appear to be neglectful of their religious duty they asked him, “Who are you?” At first they were not opposed to John and were earnestly looking for their redemption. Later ambition and a wish to retain their authority influenced them. “He confessed”- This means he stated the fact as it really was-- openly and without any ambiguity or hypocrisy-- that he was not the Christ. 21- “Are you Elijah?” They asked for Elijah rather than Moses because of Mal. 4:2,5 which predicted Elijah’s coming before the “Sun of Righteousness.” John was right in saying he was not Elijah for the soul of one man does not pass into another. But Christ affirms that John is Elijah (Mt. 11:14; Mark 9:13). When they said, “You are neither the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet” they intended to point out different persons. John says he is not a prophet, he was detaching himself from the company of the prophets. Christ says he was a prophet- even the greatest of them (Mt. 11:9). John was a prophet in that he was a herald of Christ. All ambassadors—even those who are not sent on matters of great importance—obtain the name and authority of ambassadors, because they hold special commissions. John says he is “not a prophet, but a voice crying in the wilderness.” John, as the herald of Christ, is more excellent than all the prophets, but he is still not a prophet. 23- John describes his job by quoting from the Prophet Isaiah (60:3). Isaiah does not speak of John alone here, but promises a restoration of the Church. While God was present when the people of God came back from Babylon, He was particularly present when Christ came in the flesh. John was the chief herald of Christ’s coming. “Wilderness” describes the miserable desolation of the Church, which seems to come before the people return. The Lord made a way when there was no way.

Thoughts: The humility of John was amazing. He had the chance to be more of a celebrity than he was. In our world, people would jump at the chance. He would secure his rock-star status if he had said he was a prophet, or Elijah, or the Christ. He could have rightfully even claimed he was a prophet or Elijah. Yet John lives in the wilderness, away from the intrigues of the city, and the lust for power. He kept camel hair and ate locusts, when he could have lived in the temple, and eaten meat each day, wearing the clothes of the priests (he was of a priestly family). John was the one who said, “He must increase and I must decrease.” John was the one who made few claims for himself, but gave glory to Christ. John was the greatest of the prophets because of his heralding of the Messiah, but also because of the way he did it- with great humility. Today ministers want to much for themselves, and fight over the scraps of power left after the world has taken away so much from the church. But not just ministers, also politicians, celebrities, rock stars, doctors. Today people expect big egos to go with big positions. John reminds us that the last shall be first. He was the greatest because he desired the least. John's identity, ego, and calling were all wrapped up in God's glory, not his own.

Prayer: Help us, O Lord, to desire less for ourselves and more for you.

11/11/09 John 1:5-8 God's Light Overcoming Our Darkness

Daily devotional blog using the gospels and John Calvin.

John 1:5-8
5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. 6 There was a man sent from God whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. 8 He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.
Calvin abridged: Not only did Christ exhibit himself before people, but he chose to be made known by the testimony and teachings of John. John was appointed not for the sake of Christ, but for our sake. John was an ambassador of God, with the character of an angel more than a man. “sent from God”- John came not by his own wishes but by the command of God. So all the teachers of the Church today are called to come by God. 7- “He came as a witness” the goal of his calling was that he might prepare a church for Christ. 8- “he was not the light”- John was so well respected that the Evangelist gives this warning lest his excessive brightness obscure the glory of Christ. Just as some are fascinated with the dawn so much that they do not see the sun come up, so there were some who looked at John so eagerly they neglected Christ. All the godly are light in the Lord (Eph. 5:8)- because they are enlightened by the Spirit, so they see their salvation, and direct others by their example to the way of salvation. The apostles are especially called the light (Mt. 5:14) because they go before us, holding out the torch of the Gospel, to dispel the darkness of the world. But here the Evangelist speaks of Him who is the eternal source of illumination.

Thoughts: There is a tendency to think that our darkness is stronger than God’s light. That is, that our sin is stronger than God’s power to forgive. I have known many people who give up on the God and the Church because of some sin or darkness in their lives that brings them shame. Yet God’s grace is much more powerful and can give us another chance. In John 1, it speaks of the light (Jesus) coming into the darkness but the darkness does not overcome the light. Evil resists good, but is not strong enough. Christianity differs from Zoroastrianism that says that evil and good struggle against each other (as equal gods) and we’re not sure which one will win. Christianity also differs from Panentheism (a new development of pantheism) that downplays the omnipotence of God, so that He cannot be blamed for evil- but as a consequence we cannot fully trust his promises or that He will win over evil. The birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus are a testimony to us that God wins. On this veteran's day, that is an important concept- Jesus is the veteran who has secured the victory for us. He wins over the political evil, the religious evil, the sinfulness of the people, over sickness, over persecution, and over death itself. So we should take heart. When I lived in Asheville, N.C., there was a rock slide that blocked a tunnel. It backed traffic up for miles, and I was stuck in the middle with seemingly no way out. But the crews were working. After a few hours, the road was cleared and the first car made it through the tunnel. I said, “We made it through” even though I was still in the traffic jam. Jesus has overcome the darkness- He has made it through. There is light at the end of the tunnel. So we too overcome darkness because He has overcome it. John testifies to this light, and we should too. People need hope, and we have the eternal hope in us when we believe.

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for piercing our darkness, and for overcoming the world’s and our darkness. Help us to remember your hope today.

Acts 19:1-7 Re-baptism of the Holy Ghost

Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

11/10/09- Acts 19:1-7
1 While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples 2 and asked them, "Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?" They answered, "No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit." 3 So Paul asked, "Then what baptism did you receive?" "John's baptism," they replied. 4 Paul said, "John's baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the one coming after him, that is, in Jesus." 5 On hearing this, they were baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus. 6 When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied. 7 There were about twelve men in all.

Calvin abridged: The Church in Ephesus was confirmed and built up by Paul’s return, but also the Holy Spirit was at work there, transforming rough and new disciples. It is not known if these disciples were residents of Ephesus or not, but we do know they were Jews who had received John’s baptism. 2 “Did you receive…” Paul was not speaking of the Spirit in terms of regeneration, but of the special gifts that edify the Church. Paul asked them this question as a test and a sign. Receiving the Holy Spirit was a sign and token of belief. In Galatians 3:2 Paul asks a similar question- did they “hear of the Spirit through the law or by faith?” (Gal. 3:2). “We have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit”- How could this be since Jews knew the prophets speak everywhere of the Spirit in scripture? Paul was not speaking of the general existence of the Spirit, but of the visible graces by which God beautified the kingdom of his Son. They were saying that they did not know that God gave such gifts. Paul wanted them to not stay in John’s teaching alone, for John’s purpose was to prepare disciple for Christ. Paul wanted them to be convicted of their ignorance that they might desire to go forward. Paul did not flatter them so that they would remain complacent, but he shows where they were lacking in order to encourage them to grow. John’s baptism was a sign of repentance and remission of sins, and our baptism today does not differ from it at all, except that Christ’s death and resurrection and our salvation have been revealed to us. Baptism is a sign of regeneration, renovation- both purging of sin and newness of life which flow from Christ alone. We grasp this gift of Christ by faith, so the outward sign of baptism does not take away anything from the grace of Christ. 5- “they were baptize in the name of Jesus”- Because they believed the baptism of John differed from Christ (which it did not), they were baptized again. That this is not necessary is seen in that both baptisms were signs of the same repentance to the same God, the same adoption, and the same newness of life. John’s baptism was the baptism Christ received and the visible sign of the Spirit came upon him (Mt. 3:15). Christ did not re-baptize John’s disciples who followed him. The laying on of hands is how they received the Holy Spirit- so it is a sacrament- but a temporary sacrament. I do not dislike the laying on of hands, as there are examples of it in the prophets of old. However, the laying on of hands (and worse the adding of the anointing of oil to baptism) is not necessary for baptism as if it made the sacrament better. The laying on of hands, unlike baptism and the supper, is not a perpetual command for us.

Thoughts: In the 1970’s when the charismatic/Pentecostal movement was very strong in the United States, a co-worker of mine at the grocery store told me that I needed the baptism of the Holy Spirit. He referred me to this passage to say that my baptism was not sufficient. He was saying that if anyone really believed, they would speak in tongues. But such rationale takes a one-time example and makes it the rule of everyone. However, clearly Paul inferred that not everyone speaks in tongues when he asked the rhetorical question (I Cor 12:30; 14:5) “Do all speak in tongues? Do all prophesy?” Romans 8 indicates that we cannot separate Christ in us from the Spirit’s presence in us. So if we believe, our bodies are the “temple of the Spirit” (1 Cor. 3:16; 6:19). When Christ was baptized, the Holy Spirit came upon Him in the form of a dove. When we are baptized, the Spirit also comes. We do not need to be re-baptized in the Holy Ghost-as the Spirit comes (invisibly usually) when we are baptized. There was a time when I thought re-baptism with water was a terrible practice- that I would say is like re-circumcision. The Presbyterian Book of Order discourages it, and instead asks us to remember our baptism- which we do in our church each January (people come forward and take a marble out of a water-filled bowl). I encouraged my daughter to join the Baptist church she attended with her husband (who had grown up as a member there). To do so, she had to be re-baptized. She had been baptized by Dr. John Leith who was a prominent Presbyterian professor and author, and she didn’t want to do it. Yet it seemed that this was the church to which she was called. I told her they should worship together and a little extra water wouldn’t hurt. Baptism is a thing people have fought over. But to Paul and the early church, it wasn’t a big deal- he just baptized them again. There is no evidence that Peter, John, James, and Andrew (who were known disciples of John that became disciples of Jesus) were baptized again. Apollos confessed he had received John’s baptism in the chapter before (Acts 18:25) but he was not baptized again. Certainly there should be limits to what defines baptism and the supper, but arguing over such things is almost a throwback to the concerns of outward things of the Pharisees. Baptism is a gift and a command given to us by Christ. While it should be done with reverence as a sacrament (thus rules come into existence- about mode, manner, and age), in the Bible there was more flexibility than there is in the Church today. Today, we ought to remember our baptism, which is a sign of the Holy Spirit’s baptism.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, thank you that you are alive and well and inside of us- convicting, inspiring, comforting, guiding, helping us. Thank you for our baptism that is a reminder that we are yours- signed, sealed and soon to be delivered.

John 10:40-42 Jesus' Retreat

(John's baptism site suggested by archeaologists- east of Jericho in Jordan)
Daily devotional on the gospels using an abridged translation of John Calvin's commentaries.

John 10:40-42
40 Then Jesus went back across the Jordan to the place where John had been baptizing in the early days. Here he stayed 41 and many people came to him. They said, "Though John never performed a sign, all that John said about this man was true." 42 And in that place many believed in Jesus.

Calvin abridged: Christ retreated across the Jordan that he might not have to fight continually without any hope of making progress. He gives us an example of taking opportunities to retreat when they are available. He retreated to Bethabara (1:28). 41- “Many came to him”- This large group shows that Christ did not seek solitude in order to cease from his work, but to erect a sanctuary in the wilderness, when Jerusalem, which was his own dwelling-place, had stubbornly driven him out. While the temple was made a den or robbers (Jer. 7:11; Mt. 21:13), the Church of God was gathered in a despised place. “John never performed a sign”- This infers that Christ is greater than John, because he had distinguished himself by so many miracles, while John did not perform a single miracle. Miracles alone do not make a person great, but when it is combined with great teaching it is not to be taken lightly. In God’s providence, John did not do any miracles to point to the greatness of Christ. “Many believed”- There were two reasons that encouraged them to believe. One was the belief in John’s testimony about Christ; and, the miracles of Christ that showed his greater authority.

Thoughts: Why did Jesus go here? He went to the place where John had preached (Bethany or Bethbara- probably between the Dead Sea and Jericho) to bring attention to John’s ministry. He went there because everyone recognized it was a holy place. Many denominations have retreats- like Montreat (Presbyterian), Lake Junaluska (Methodist), Christmount (Disciples). These are places where prayers have been prayed, lives have been dedicated, and great teaching has been taught. They are a bit similar to the holy places mentioned in the Old Testament. Jesus also went there as an escape from those who were trying to kill him. John tells us that when Jesus was in Jerusalem right before he went here “the Jews picked up stones to stone him” but he escaped (10:31,39). Jesus was rejected in his own temple (10:22). The temple was supposed to be the dwelling place of God, and here was God in the flesh. We should not lightly pass over those who reject our Lord- as if it does not matter to them or to the furtherance of the Gospel. While it is important to not be aggressive or mean toward others (our Lord’s example here is not to fight back), it is also important to answer their accusations and to seek to spread the gospel. In our post-modern world, people are saying that it doesn’t matter what you believe. But it doesn’t take much to know that teachings that advocate hatred over love, violence over respect should not be equated. It is naïve to think that society has no stake in those who advocate Machiavellian greed or Epicurean selfishness compared to those who seek to promote the love of neighbor that Jesus taught. We should learn from Jesus that in a hostile environment the best strategy is to go where the gospel will be received and continue the work.

Prayer: Help us, O Lord, to know when to speak up and when to seek retreat. Give us grace in and for our journey.

11/8- Mark 11:27-33 Jesus' Authority

(Jesus and the Pharisees)

Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

MARK 11:27-33; (LUKE 20:1-8; MATTHEW 21:23-27)
27 They arrived again in Jerusalem, and while Jesus was walking in the temple courts, the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders came to him. 28 "By what authority are you doing these things?" they asked. "And who gave you authority to do this?"
29 Jesus replied, "I will ask you one question. Answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. 30 John's baptism—was it from heaven, or of human origin? Tell me!"
31 They discussed it among themselves and said, "If we say, 'From heaven,' he will ask, 'Then why didn't you believe him?' 32 But if we say, 'Of human origin' . . . ." (They feared the people, for everyone held that John really was a prophet.)
33 So they answered Jesus, "We don't know."
Jesus said, "Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things."

Calvin abridged: “By what authority”- As their other schemes to stop Jesus from teaching did not work, they tried an indirect method. They do not debate the substance of his teaching, but call his calling and commission into question. If course a person should not proclaim themselves a priest, a prophet, much less Messiah unless they had been chosen by God. He needed God’s voice and an oath (Ps. 110:4; Heb. 7:21). But they acted wickedly and faked ignorance of all he had done and his miracles that testified to God’s calling upon him. They were saying that God was not the author of the miracles because he had not been approved by their votes (as if the power solely resided in them). Christ did not answer them because they questioned him about a well known matter. 25- “John’s baptism”- Christ questions them about John because it shows they were unworthy of the authority they held. They despised a holy prophet, but also to show they pretended ignorance about a matter with which they were well acquainted. John was sent as Christ’s herald and claims nothing more for himself than to prepare the way for the Lord (Mal. 3:1; Lk. 7:27). John had pointed to Christ as the Son of God, proving Christ’s authority. It was impossible to acknowledge John as a servant of God without acknowledging that Jesus was the Lord. We should learn from this that when the wicked try to trap us we should be on guard against their malice and defend the truth properly. “Baptism” is not only talking of the sign of washing, but the whole ministry of John. Christ had already remarkably elevated John above all the prophets (Lk. 7:26,28). So Christ confounds and shames them with his answer by bringing forward the testimony of John proving that he has divine authority.
Thoughts: Mark begins with John’s testimony about Jesus. These words concerning John are toward the very end of the Gospel right before Christ’s death and resurrection. The questions about Jesus and his claims were coming to a head. In that day of religious ferment many had claimed to be messiah (Acts 5:36,37), so part of their job was to sort truth from fiction. If the authorities could not acknowledge John who was pointing to Jesus, they would not acknowledge Jesus’ claims. Everyone knew John was a prophet (even these priests, teachers, and elders). But to acknowledge John would mean they would acknowledge the One whom he acknowledged, for one of John’s key prophecies was that Jesus was the messiah- the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. In our day, many question the right of the Church to say what is right or wrong. There are more truth claims before us than at any other time. It is important, therefore, for the Church to not stray from its source of truth in Christ and scripture. If someone cannot acknowledge the authority of scripture, then they cannot acknowledge our right to speak the truth.

Prayer: Lord, we live in a day of many evil questions. Give us grace to answer those who would accuse us wisely and graciously.

11/7/09 Mark 9:9-13 Coming Down from the Mountain

(Transfiguration by Raphael)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth. Paralleling Jesus in the Gospels.

11/7/09- MARK9:9-13; (LUKE 9:36; MATTHEW 17:9-13)

9 As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus gave them orders not to tell anyone what they had seen until the Son of Man had risen from the dead. 10 They kept the matter to themselves, discussing what "rising from the dead" meant.
11 And they asked him, "Why do the teachers of the law say that Elijah must come first?"
12 Jesus replied, "To be sure, Elijah does come first, and restores all things. Why then is it written that the Son of Man must suffer much and be rejected? 13 But I tell you, Elijah has come, and they have done to him everything they wished, just as it is written about him."

Calvin abridged: “As they were going down” The time for making the vision known had not fully come, and the disciples may not have believed it, if Christ ahd not given a more striking proof of his glory in the resurrection. So this temporary evidence of his glory was evidence that even thought he emptied himself (Phil. 2:7) he continued to retain his whole divinity- though it was hidden under the veil of the flesh.
The Jewish teachers said there would be a first and second coming of the Messiah; In the first he would be mean and despised, but the second coming would be shortly after and showed his royal dignity. In truth the scripture speaks of a first coming as a redeemer (Zech 9:9; Isa. 53:3,4), and a second in power. But the teaching of the day corrupted this [so that one immediately followed the other]. They also made mistakes about Elijah. Elijah was supposed to accompany the Messiah (Mal. 3:1,4:5), and it seemed that they could lessen Christ’s authority by saying Elijah did not come with him. “Elijah has come”- John the Baptist resembled Elijah by restoring the fallen condition of the Church, “restore all things” This does not mean that John the Baptist restored them perfectly, but that he conveyed and handed them over to Christ who would complete the work that he began. Christ was reminding them here, that if they rejected John the servant, they will also reject Christ the Master. Our Lord mentions Scripture that predicts both rejections by wicked teachers.

Thoughts: They were coming down from the Mount of Transfiguration (traditionally Mt. Tabor, but some today say Mt. Hermon- as it is closer to where they were in Caesarea Philippi, and higher). Jesus had shown his closest disciples his glory, before they fully experienced his sufferings in his arrest, beatings, and cross. He also spoke of keeping things quiet until his glory was fully revealed in the resurrection. After the transfiguration, the way to the cross and the resurrection was very clear and short. Peter had wanted to put up shelters there to preserve the moment. He probably never wanted to come down off the mountaintop. Yet the mountaintop experience was only a temporary glory. So it is with all our mountaintop experiences. The real glorifying God comes in facing our crosses and overcoming them by the power of the resurrection, not in staying isolated or comfortable as Christ.
Prayer: Help us, Lord, to glorify you on our mountaintops, but also in the valleys.

11/6 Mark 6:17-29, John's death

(Apparition of John's head to Salome- Gustav Moreau 1874-6- based on legend of post death Salome)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

Mark 6:17-29
17 For Herod himself had given orders to have John arrested, and he had him bound and put in prison. He did this because of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, whom he had married. 18 For John had been saying to Herod, "It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife." 19 So Herodias nursed a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. But she was not able to, 20 because Herod feared John and protected him, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man. When Herod heard John, he was greatly puzzled [d]; yet he liked to listen to him.
21 Finally the opportune time came. On his birthday Herod gave a banquet for his high officials and military commanders and the leading men of Galilee. 22 When the daughter of [e] Herodias came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his dinner guests.
The king said to the girl, "Ask me for anything you want, and I'll give it to you." 23 And he promised her with an oath, "Whatever you ask I will give you, up to half my kingdom."
24 She went out and said to her mother, "What shall I ask for?"
"The head of John the Baptist," she answered.
25 At once the girl hurried in to the king with the request: "I want you to give me right now the head of John the Baptist on a platter."
26 The king was greatly distressed, but because of his oaths and his dinner guests, he did not want to refuse her. 27 So he immediately sent an executioner with orders to bring John's head. The man went, beheaded John in the prison, 28 and brought back his head on a platter. He presented it to the girl, and she gave it to her mother. 29 On hearing of this, John's disciples came and took his body and laid it in a tomb.

Calvin abridged: John was seized because he had openly condemned Herod for carrying off Herodias, and for his incestuous marriage with her. Herod was offended by John because he had rebuked him. Not only did Herod keep another man’s wife, but it was his own brother’s wife, as well as his niece. Such a crime is universally blamed, but others said things about Herod behind his back, John alone reproved him to his face. The servants of God need great courage in the presence of rulers- as almost any court has flattery and hypocrisy. Most in power are used to those trying to get along with them by keeping quiet not by reproving them. Mark and Matthew seem to contradict each other as Matthew says Herod wanted to kill John but was restrained by fear of the people; But Mark seems to blame Herodias alone. Probably Herod wanted to kill John but was constrained for fear of an insurrection, but Herodias incited him and made it happen. Herod feared John in that he respected him because he was a faithful servant of God. John would rather turn a friend into an enemy than to encourage by flattery or silence an evil. John has given an example for all to not wink at the faults of rulers in order to purchase their favor. “On his birthday” There is nothing wrong in the mere act of preparing an expensive banquet, but there is a tendency toward licentiousness, luxurious pride, and unbridled merriment. The ancient custom of observing a birthday should not be disapproved—for that day should be an opportunity to give thanks to God who brought us into the world, and permitted us to spend years in it, A birthday should be held in sacred honor is often defiled. Herod allowed the wine to inflame him so that he offered too much to a dancing girl. Herodias was waiting and plotting for this to happen. This also shows the power of the word of God, that the voice of the holy man, even when it was shut up in prison, wounds and tortures the mind of the king’s wife. :the king was sorry” – he was sorry not for religious reasons, but he was sorry to lose the approval of the people. Yet he still didn’t have the courage to give a refusal to a dancing girl—and he should have refused such a rash promise. This passage teaches us that we ought to beware making promises without considering the price of keeping them. 28- “presented it to the girl”- The crime was made even worse because the head of the holy man who died was made a matter of sport. In this way the Lord sometimes gives up his people to the pride of the wicked, until he eventually makes clear that their blood is precious in his sight (Psalm 116:15). Herodias is delighted. But later Herodias is stripped of her wealth, deprived of her title of queen, and driven from her native country- which is a spectacle gratifying to the angels and all good people. The guests at the king’s table had to behold this detestable exhibition. Those who sit at the table of kings are liable to be involved in much wickedness. 29- “His disciples came”- There is evidence that the attendants of the tyrant threw out the corpse. The honor of burial is not important to the dead, yet it is a symbol of the last resurrection. This also attested to their piety and bravery- that John’s doctrine lived in them.

Thoughts: John’s death is a great tragedy. Elijah was persecuted but taken up in a chariot and did not die. Jesus suffered, died, was buried, rose, and ascended to heaven. But John was only tragically killed for his truth-telling. Most of the prophets in the Old Testament had a tragic end. John’s death focused the attention on the one for whom he was preparing the way-Jesus. John himself said, “He must increase and I must decrease.” John’s death also was a warning that coming out with truth in the wicked world leads to persecution. Jesus in his ministry continued to say things like- “do not tell anybody” (about his ministry). As soon as Jesus became truly popular in Jerusalem (Palm Sunday), the people in power (both religious and political) plotted his death. John did not involve himself in Herod’s political policies, but only in his ethical decisions. Today the Church should be perhaps less involved with votes and policies and more concerned with ethics and true repentance. If the Church sits quietly at either the Republican or Democratic table- we stain ourselves with their wrong deeds, just as those who sat at Herod’s table stained themselves.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for John the Baptist and people like him- who tell the truth even when it hurts. Raise up people like John in our world, and give your people wisdom to know how to interact in the politically consumed world.

11/5- Herod's Guilt and John's Testimony

(Herod and John-Reubens)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

11/5/09 (MARK 6:14-16; MATTHEW 14:1-2; LUKE 9:7-9)

14 King Herod heard about this, for Jesus' name had become well known. Some were saying, [c] "John the Baptist has been raised from the dead, and that is why miraculous powers are at work in him."
15 Others said, "He is Elijah."
And still others claimed, "He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of long ago."
16 But when Herod heard this, he said, "John, whom I beheaded, has been raised from the dead!"

Calvin abridged: The name of Christ was universally spread so that no one can use the excuse that they hadn’t heard of him. Otherwise some may ask “Why did Judea continue to be in a sleep-state when Christ came as if he had drawn into a corner?” But the evangelists state that people were talking of him even in the courts of Herod. “John the Baptist has been raised”- This was not of Herod’s own thinking, but it was suggested to him by what he had heard among the people. Perhaps the hatred of the tyrant caused the rumors to begin out of superstition. His gifts compared to that of the prophets. The passage in Malachi made people think of Elijah. But it was not really Elijah, but someone comparing to Elijah. The people are compelled by Jesus’ miracles to acknowledge some divine power belongs to him, and yet they fancy that he was another person. “Miraculous powers”- John performed no miraculous powers that we know of. They thought that John was doing miracles for the first time. The miracles make it evident that God is with Him, and he gives greater authority.

Thought: Guilt can cloud our reason, and make us have illusions- (like MacBeth’s spots). Herod’s guilt made him feel John was sent back to torture him. He had beheaded John to save face, but instead he lost his conscience. Today many feel guilt, but have no idea how to get rid of it. “ The Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world” is what John called Jesus (Jn. 1:29). If Herod had heard John’s testimony instead of being enthralled with Jesus’ powers, and killing John, he and the world would have been saner. Guilt makes us superstitiously fearful (as Herod was afraid God would raise John). But Jesus offers forgiveness to those who believe and repent.

Thoughts: Today, Lord, help us to live with clear consciences before you and others.

11/4- Luke 2:36-39= Anna of the remnant

(Anna, Simeon and the Christ)
Abridged commentary from John Calvin on the gospels with a thought and prayer- written fresh every day.

Luke 2:36-39

36 There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, 37 and then had been a widow for eighty-four years. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. 38 Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.
39 When Joseph and Mary had done everything required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their own town of Nazareth.

Calvin abridged: Luke only mentions two who welcomed Christ; this is intended to teach us that we should prefer the smallness from God to the abundance of the world. Simeon and Anna are entitled to be held in greater reverence than all the great splendor of the scribes and priests and the multitudes whose pride was swelled by nothing but empty titles. The historian mentions 1) Anna’s age, 2) designates her as a prophetess, and 3) speaks of her piety, holiness, and chastity of life. “Eighty-four”- could mean that she was a widow for eighty-four years (which would mean she would be over one hundred years old), or it could be her entire age (which makes more sense). The Spirit of prophecy still shone in a very few, who served as tokens to attest to the faith till the coming of Christ. In a state of society so dissolute, the elect of God needed such aids to prevent them from losing faith. 37- “She never left the temple”- This is a hyperbolic expression; but the meaning is she was constantly in the temple. “fasting and praying”- She did not come to the temple for outward show, but she added her inward devotion to her outward attendance. This same rule is not made for all of us. Each one of us has our own calling from God (cf. 1 Tim. 5:5 which seems to indicate this is an example to widows). Fasting is not a necessary part of worship, but it is an accessory that aids in prayer. Prayer is an essential part of worship. The holy woman used fasting as a spur to bewail the problems of the Church in that day. 38- “Gave thanks to God and spoke of the child”- This is the holy melody which came from the lips of Simeon and Anna, and it is praised by Luke. “All who looked for the redemption of Jerusalem”- this was again a small number of the godly. 39- “They returned to Galilee”- The departure of Egypt, came between this story of the temple and their return to Nazareth (Mt. 2:14). There is nothing wrong with one evangelist leaving out what is mentioned by another.

Thoughts: Anna, Simeon (and Calvin) are examples to all of us to seek to be close to God even if most fall away or are distorted in their faith by a corrupted church. Calvin noted before that there are many times in history when the church was reduced to a remnant, and some wonder if the church will survive at all. In such situations the truly godly are not lifted up by the world, but swept aside into a corner- as Simeon and Anna were. You will not be able to find Simeon and Anna in the histories of the day (Josephus, Tacitus, etc.), but God remembers them. In such a distorted world, the truly godly remnant are usually thought to be eccentric and overly-zealous. In our day- some are totally unreligious, and some find that non-religion removes too much of the mystery yet they will not come back to Christ but seek other religions (Islam, New Age, even the debunked Scientology). In such a day, Christians should seek to be Simeons and Annas. These did not leave the church to form a more “pure or perfect” Church, but they remained faithful, knowing that God saw their faithfulness. Anna was a prophetess- speaking forth the Word of God- showing that from the beginning of his ministry women could speak God's truth faithfully. So Simeon who wrote no books and held no office, and Anna who was a poor widow, were lifted up forever in the Bible as two who welcomed Christ. We should live and have a listening ear to God that is so attentive- that we can respond to God when He works in our world. We should not be afraid of being a remnant but should seek to be faithful and fruitful.

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for godly people like Simeon and Anna. Help us to be faithful to you, looking to you, as they did.

11/3 Luke 2:33-35 Rising and Falling of Many

(Simeon: Arent de Gelder)

Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

11/3 Luke 2: 33-35

33 The child's father and mother marveled at what was said about him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: "This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, 35 so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too."

Calvin abridged: “father and mother marveled”- It was not that they were astonished as if it was something new, but that they contemplated with revered and embraced with admiration, this prediction of the Spirit from the lips of Simeon- so that they continued to make progress about the knowledge of Christ. We can learn from their example that we need to collect everywhere we can, whatever may aid our faith. 34p “Simeon blessed them” – It might be asked, “What right had Simeon to bless Christ” (cf. Heb. 7:7)? But it is proper that we pray for each other. There would be no absurdity in saying that he prayed for the prosperity and advancement of his kingdom (Ps. 118:26). “This child is destined”- While this was addressed directly to Mary, it applies to all the godly. The holy virgin needed this admonition so that she would not be so lifted up by prosperous beginnings that she would not be prepared for enduring afflictions to come. She needed to know that Christ would not be received with universal applause so that she would have unshaken courage against hostile attacks. So we too should be prepared for the world’s hostile attacks against Christ. So we must put on the armor of Christ (Eph. 6:11) against those who not only reject him as King, but treated him with such contempt and outrage. So there was a good purpose to Simeon’s prediction of Christ as destined to cause the fall (ruin) of many in Israel. But it should be noted that the ruin of unbelievers is caused by their striking and rebelling against him. Many oppose Christ for different reasons, but they unite in their opposition to him. This opposition in every place is a plain evidence of human depravity. Isaiah said the same thing: “he will be a stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall.” This same madness is sometimes evident even by those who call themselves Christians, and even leaders in the Church. “The rising (resurrection) of many”- This is a consolation which is in contrast to the former clause (cf. 1 Pt. 2:4-7; Is. 28:16). That we might not be terrified that Christ is a stone of stumbling, he is also designated a “corner stone”, on which rests the salvation of all the godly. Christ is not only the support, but the resurrection of the godly- meaning that our condition is such that we must rise from death in order to live. 35- “a sword will pierce your own soul too”- Though Mary’s faith was agitated by various temptations, her greatest temptation was the cross- for there Christ appeared to be utterly destroyed. Many join the Church to become prosperous, but when they find they are asked to bear the cross, and that the Church is exposed to numerous calamities, they easily desert their post.

Thoughts: In a perfect world, everyone would accept the kingship of Jesus, and follow Him. But in this world the Church (and we as individuals in the Church), must still bear the cross. Sin blinds us to his kingship, and blinds us to the need to face the cross. Mary had a hard time accepting his ministry too (8:19-21), and if she did, we at times will as well. Yet despite “a sword piercing her own soul”, Mary was a faithful leader in the church. When at times it pains us to be Christian. When maybe a brother is turned against brother, or a child is turned against their parent because of Christ, it pierces our own soul. Yet, we should not allow those who stumble at the rock of Christ to cause us to stumble as well. We need God’s Spirit to keep us faithful to Him though all fall away. In our day, many are turning away. As more turn away, the vocal and public opposition to the Church becomes greater. When the Church tries to be a conscience, it is taken as being mean (think of some of the things being said in Main’s vote today, or in Irmo’s vote today). Yet the Church should not fail to stand up for the cause of Christ, and for what it deems best for society as a whole—while at the same time realizing our main purpose is not political, but spiritual. Jesus did not speak politically much- but often turned the political things into spiritual lessons. The rising and falling that Simeon spoke of was not a political rising and falling- but a spiritual death and resurrection.

Prayer: In our world that is quick to pick up sides, help us to always be with you, Jesus. When so many fall away, give us grace to be faithful to who you are.

11/2- John's voice

Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

11/2- Mark 1:1-6 (cf. Matthew 3:1-6; Luke 3:1-6)

1 The beginning of the good news about Jesus the Messiah, 2 as it is written in Isaiah the prophet: "I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way"— 3 "a voice of one calling in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.' " 4 And so John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. 5 The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem went out to him. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River. 6 John wore clothing made of camel's hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. 7 And this was his message: "After me comes the one more powerful than I, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. 8 I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit."

Calvin abridged; It is not without reason that Mark begins his Gospel with the preaching of John the Baptist. For the Law and the Prophets came to an end with John (Jn. 1:17; Lk. 16:16; Mal. 3:1), but the Gospel began to be published when he began preaching. The reason God did not give them new prophecies, is that he wished to inflame a strong desire for the coming salvation. He mentions the law (Jn. 1:17) because t was common to include the Prophets under the name Law. In both Malachi 3:1 (“Behold I send my messenger”) and Malachi 4:5 (Behold, I send you Elijah the Prophet”) the Lord promises a better condition of his Church than existed under the Law, and points to the beginning of the Gospel. Before the Lord came to restore the Church, he would send a forerunner or herald to announce that he was near. So we infer, that the abrogation of the Law, and the beginning of the Gospel took place when John began to preach. All the evangelists, in the providence of God, skip over the first thirty years of Christ’s birth (with the exception of his 12th year in the temple recorded in Luke), until the time the good news is spread publicly. [Many manuscripts call the Christ “the Son of God” here- pointing to the divinity of Christ]. Luke infers John began to preach at about thirty (Lk. 3:1). The ancient writers of the church unanimously agree that he was born fifteen years before the death of Augustus (and thus fifteen years into the reign of Tiberius). Christ also began his ministry at thirty, and so John’s teaching office was not long-lived. John the morning star was immediately followed by Christ the “Sun of Righteousness” (Mal. 4:2). John disappeared in order that Christ might shine in fuller brightness. Pontius Pilate had been ruling for two years when John began to preach (Josephus Ant. 18:22; Lk. 3:1). Luke mentions that Annas and Caiaphas were both high priests- but it was not that they shared the same title at the same time But that they split the responsibility- showing the ambition and corruption of the priesthood at the time. Matthew and Mark speak of John speaking in the wilderness while Luke says he came into the country around the Jordan- but these are one and the same thing- as the Jordan area is wilderness (rough, mountainous, thinly populated) and the point was John was preaching in that area. “Repentance” (Matthew “Repent”)- point out that the kingdom of God among us is nothing else than a restoration to a happy life- true and everlasting happiness. People who were alienated from the righteousness of God, and banished from the kingdom, were gathered to God, and live under his guidance. God’s grace comes first (the kingdom of heaven being near), and then comes repentance. Repentance does not bring in the kingdom, but the kingdom’s coming brings in repentance. Pardon of sins occurs not that we may indulge in sins but that he may heal us from our sins. So that without hatred of sin and remorse for transgressions, not may taste the grace of God. So the Gospel consists of two parts: forgiveness of sins and repentance. “Baptism of repentance”- A sacrament is not a dumb ceremony, exhibiting some meaningless pomp without doctrine; but the Word of God is joined to it, and gives life to the ceremony. Baptism is an outward representation of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. As He pardons us, he delivers us. As He adopts us, He regenerates us. In a sense the baptism of John does not differ from the baptism of Christ since the meaning, power, and nature are the same. “The voice of one crying in the wilderness” – the silence of the prophets for so long contrasts with John’s voice. Wilderness is really speaking of the desolation of the nation. “Prepare the way for the Lord”- While the prophet may have indicated Cyrus and the redemption from exile, it is fulfilled clearer in John and the kingdom of Christ. Lk. 3:6- “All flesh shall see the salvation of God”- not that all will be saved, but that all shall be able to experience salvation. “Camels hair, locusts, wild-honey”- This not only tells us that John associated with the peasants, but that he was held in high esteem by men of rank though he was humble and moderate in his things. It is superstitious to think that holiness consists of such outward things. “Baptized confessing their sins”- Confession of sins is a part of adult baptism and repentance- otherwise it is just a mocking performance.

Thoughts: The good news, in a sense begins with Epiphany, even more than Christmas. The good news was publicized in earnest when John came into the wilderness. The gospel of John and Peter’s preaching of the gospel (Acts 10:37) begin with John the Baptist as well. Camels hair and belt- are prophetic symbols of Eijah (2 Ki 1:8), but also of other prophets (Zech. 11:4). John was a simple man with a profound message (symbolized in his lifestyle)- get back to basics. Wipe away all the extras, excesses, and waxed build up- around your faith and remember your first love. The return to basics was a message of preparation for God’s kingdom coming. In our day, we follow easy-believism. In our day even evangelical churches are hiding the cross, lest someone be offended. In our day, we emphasize the love of God so much that there is no room for repentance and holiness. There is almost a sense that everyone sins, and we can’t fully escape it, so we don’t have to repent of any sins. John’s message was a powerful one- emphasizing the power of God to change our lives, and improve our relationship with God. We need to hear that message of repentance and washing anew.

Prayer: May we, Lord, repent from our sins, and break away from our old, thoughtless habits. May we return to you with our whole hearts, and may your kingdom come in us today.

11/1- All Saints and the Beatitudes

Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

11/1- All Saints Day

He said:
3 "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
5 Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
7 Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

John Calvin- sermons on the Beatitudes: “How, indeed, can we explain our soul’s salvation except in terms of God’s good pleasure, and his free gift of mercy? For if we think that we are better than others whom he has passed over or abandoned, we simply demean God’s unconditional kindness through which we obtain salvation. And this we do every time we seek to gain a measure of importance or esteem in men’s eyes. Every mouth must of necessity be shut. We must learn that God has chosen us, not because he saw something good in us, or found us, more amenable than in those whom he rejects, but simply that he might reveal the full splendor of his generosity.” (Banner of Truth 2006).

Thoughts: John Calvin really began his career when he helped Nicolas Cop write a sermon on the Beatitudes. His last series of sermons were on the Beatitudes as well ending in 1564 with his ill health. When Calvin and Cop spoke on the Beatitudes (especially “Blessed are the Poor in Spirit”) All Saints Day to the University of Paris, they aroused such opposition by saying we are saved by grace not by works, that they had to flee the country. Calvin escaped the chief of police by some friends delaying them downstairs while he went out a back window using a rope made of bedclothes! The Beatitudes are reminders of God’s grace and love, which we need every day.

Prayer: Help me, O Lord, to cling to your grace and mercy- as the saints before me have done.

10/31 Luther

(Luther translating scripture into German)
10/31/09 Luther and Calvin-

17For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last,[a] just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith." (Romans 1:17)

(Calvin's Letter to Martin Luther 1545- excerpt): Would that I could fly to you, that I might even for a few hours enjoy the happiness of your society; for I would prefer, and it would be far better, not only upon this question, but also about others, to converse personally with yourself; but seeing that it is not granted to us on earth, I hope that shortly it will come to pass in the kingdom of God. Adieu, most renowned sir, most distinguished minister of Christ, and my everhonored father. The Lord himself rule and direct you by his own Spirit, that you may persevere even unto the end, for the common benefit and good of his own Church. — Yours,John Calvin

Today is the day we call Reformation Day (No, it's not just All Hallow's Eve or Halloween). It is the day that we remember that Marin Luther nailed his 95 theses to the Wittenburg Door- mainly protesting the idea of indulgences (bought forgiveness). Luther was convinced that salvation is by grace alone through faith alone. He stood alone on the Word of God.

Calvin called Luther an apostle of the Reformation. In the beginning Calvin probably saw himself as a Lutheran before he developed his Reformed theology. Calvin said very little against Luther, though he spoke against his view of the church Calvin had real hopes that the Lutherans and Reformed would get together, but this didn’t happen. He had made friends with Melanchthon, Luther’s right hand man. But Melanchthon died before he could cement their bond. Later Lutherans criticized Calvin, so that he had to back off. Yet he still longed for a concord between the two. The Reformed actually allowed Lutherans to take communion in their churches, though that favor was not returned. Only in the last thirty years have the Lutherans and Reformed made realy progress in recognizing each other. Calvin would have been proud.

In our day, we can learn from Luther. Too many are consumed with doing good to earn someone’s favor or popularity. But in reality we need God to come and save us.

Prayer: Thank you for brave souls like Luther who stood up for their beliefs and changed the world.

10/30- Simeon the remnant

(Simeon, Hans Gruener)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

10/20- Luke 2:22- 32
22 When the time came for the purification rites required by the Law of Moses, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, "Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord" ), 24 and to offer a sacrifice in keeping with what is said in the Law of the Lord: "a pair of doves or two young pigeons."
25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Messiah. 27 Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, 28 Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying:
29 "Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. 30 For my eyes have seen your salvation,
31 which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel."

Calvin abridged: 22- “When the time came for purification”- On the fortieth day after birth (Lev. 12:2,4) it was necessary to perform the rite of purification. But Mary and Joseph come to Jerusalem for another reason, to present Christ to the Lord, because he was the first-born. Such a purification was not just political as if her impurities were only present to her husband and not to God. But this purpose was to remind the people of God of the corruption of their nature, and the remedy of divine grace. A sign of original sin is that a child was considered unclean and polluted when it came from its mother, and the mother was also considered defiled by childbearing. 23 –“Every firstborn male”- The Lord commanded that all the first-born males be dedicated to him, in remembrance of their deliverance (Ex. 12:29; Nbrs. 3:13). They were allowed to redeem their first-born for a price. Joseph and Mary obeyed the law.
24- They offered a sacrifice- this was for the purification and not for the redeeming of the first born. They offered two doves because they did not have enough money to offer a lamb (Lev. 12:8). Joseph and Mary gave as much as their circumstances allowed. 25- “who was righteous and devout”- This narrative reminds us that though the whole nation was profane and irreligious, yet a few worshippers of God remained. These were the remnant (Rom. 11:5), and within this small band the Church of God lay. We do not know what Simeon did for a living- he may have been poor. But we know he was righteous, devout, and a prophet. Proof of his devotion was that he was waiting for the consolation of Israel. No true worship of God can exist without the hope of salvation which depends on the faith of his promises- and the promised restoration. Simeon came into the temple by the spirit, that is by a secret movement and revelation that he might meet the Christ. 29- “you may now dismiss your servant in peace”- Simeon was not looking on Christ with the eyes of the flesh. He means that he could be sent away with composure of mind now that he had obtained what he desired. 30- “For my eyes have seen your salvation”- What he had seen with his mind’s eye, he now sees in the flesh. If the sight of Christ as a child produced such revelation, how much more materials of abundant peace are given us. 31- “Which you have prepared”- Christ had been divinely appointed, that all nations might enjoy his grace. 32- “A light for the Gentiles”- Christ is for all nations, and we are adopted into the fold. He is a light- the “sun of righteousness” (Mal. 4:2).

Thoughts: Luke speaks more of the temple- a physical symbol of the presence of God- than any other evangelist. Luke ends with the temple, and he almost starts with it. The visible presence of God, came to the building that symbolized the presence of God. When my wife and I went to the wailing wall (a remnant of the temple), we were surprised at how powerful the sense of the presence of God was there. Joseph and Mary were poor, but they gave what they could, and did their best to keep the law. In our recession, there are still most who have more than Mary and Joseph had. But we ought not to stop giving. To give is a blessing. The widow’s mite story illustrates it is not how much we give, but the spirit and sacrifice which is important. Seeing the Messiah was on his bucket list. It was the only thing. Would that all of us seek Him as Simeon did. Would that we could be part of a faithful remnant (as Simeon and Anna) when so many are turning away. Our faith is not dependent on some popularity poll, but on the poll of God- how we might please him.

Prayer: Give us grace ,Lord, to search for you with our whole heart, and find you anew. In our search for more of your presence, help us to remain faithful to you.

10/29- Luke 2:15-21 Praise of shepherds

(circumcision of Jesus by Tintoretto of Venice)
10/29 Luke 2:15-21

15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." 16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. 21 On the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise the child, he was named Jesus, the name the angel had given him before he was conceived.
Calvin abridged: “15- “When the angels had left them”- The obedience of the shepherds is described here. The Lord had made them witnesses of his Son to the whole world. They were not commanded to come see the Christ, but aware of God’s purposes, they hasten to see him. In the same way, Christ is held out to us, in order that we may approach him by faith; our delay in coming to him is inexcusable. The shepherds left after the angels departed, to remind us that when we receive a word from God, we should respond and not forget it. The shepherds leave us an example by exhorting one another to action. “The Lord has told us about”- They had only heard it from an angel, but they intentionally and correctly say that it was from the Lord; for they considered that the messenger of God had the same authority as if the Lord himself had addressed them. Our attention is not focused on the messenger, but on the Word. All of us, like the shepherds, should follow wherever God calls. 16- “Found Mary” This was a revolting sight, that the King of the whole people should be lower than most and in a stable. But these things did not prevent the shepherds from admiring and praising God. The only reason why our faith is slowed or detoured is that we do not look steadfastly enough on God. 17- “They spread the word” In spreading the word they were a type of secondary angel. The Lord, who called them to spread the word, made it fruitful, though their low rank diminished their credibility. Though many were astonished, no one moved a step to come to Christ.
19- “Mary pondered them in her heart”- If we are wise, it will be our chief business, and the great object of our life, to consider carefully those works of God which build up our faith. 20 “glorifying and praising God” – The shepherds knew with certainty this was a work of God. Their gratitude implies our ingratitude. If the stable had that effect upon them, why doesn’t the death and resurrection have greater effect upon us? 21- :it was time to circumcise the child” – God appointed that his son should be circumcised to be under the law (Gal. 4:4,5). By circumcision, Christ became a slave of the law that he might procure our freedom. The custom at that time was to give names to their children at circumcision, just as we now do at baptism. Two things are mentioned here: First, Jesus was not given accidently but was the name given by the angel. Second, Joseph and Mary obeyed the command of God. The relationship between faith and the word of God is that when he speaks, we follow- so that our faith answers his promises. Salvation by Christ had been promised by God through the angel, and then proclaimed by the voice of others.

Thought: Unlike Zechariah the priest on duty, these lowly-untrained shepherds responded to God’s word. It doesn’t take an expert to respond to God. Sometimes experts in their pride, keep us from belief. Experts are trained to doubt, to criticize, to be skeptical. It takes an unusual scholar who will also believe. In our times of humility, we are more apt to believe than our proud times. It is worrisome when in our humility we turn to shear skepticism which has no hope, or turn to other gods. If we really believe, we will be witnesses of what God has done. If we are really skeptical we will hold back, and remain silent- even thinking our truth is on the same par as another’s differing truth. So today, many Christians have so much doubt combined with pride, that we won’t speak. The shepherds were not proud- but were willing to leave their flocks, their welfare in response, and to risk everyone thinking they were crazy in order to tell what they had seen. Our pride keeps us silent. Our skepticism keeps us quiet. So we leave nothing to go and see. Our religion has become convenient, and powerless. We have a form of godliness without the power. We have no room for the improbable or for people doing foolish things motivated by their faith (as the shepherds did). Mary remembered the foolish shepherds, and the angel stories- and maybe she told Luke what had happened later. Mary and Joseph were practicing their faith when they circumcised Jesus. God honors us for being faithful to what we know we should do. This whole section is about proclaiming the name of Jesus- our Savior.

Prayer: Lord, help us to not only hear your Word, but to believe it and respond to it with the praise of our lives.

10/28 Luke 2:8-14 The Message of Good News Spreads

(Govert Flinck c. 1600)
Luke 2:8-14

8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests."


John Calvin Abridged: Christ’s birth in Bethlehem would have been purposeless if this event were not told to the world. But God’s method of proclaiming the birth appears unsuitable to human eyes. First Christ is revealed only to a few witnesses, and that in the midst darkness. Though God had available many honorable and distinguished witnesses, he passed over these and chose shepherds, poor people, and not highly regarded. This too was a part of Christ’s “emptying himself” (Phil. 2:6). This treasure (of the gospel) was deposited in earthen vessels (2 Cor. 4:7). If we desire to follow Christ, then let us not be ashamed to follow those whom the Lord has taken from the dung heap to be our instructors. 9- “the glory of the Lord shone around them”- he angel appeared not in an ordinary form, or without majesty, but surrounded with the brightness of heavenly glory, to affect the minds of the shepherds powerfully. So the “fear” by which God humbles us helped them to receive his word with reverence. 10- “Do not be afraid”- though it is profitable to be struck with awe that we may give God the glory due his name, it is also important that they be consoled and not be overwhelmed with fear. The angel did not come to announce judgment but the mercy of God. “Great joy…a Savior is born”- Until people have peace with God, all the temporary joys they have in life are deceitful. The ungodly indulge in laughter and reveling and flatter themselves with luxurious indulgence, but their own lusts torment them. But there is a joy that gives peace of mind- the joy of the Holy Spirit (Rom. 14:7). We should not only rejoice in the salvation brought to us by Christ, but this blessing is so full in order to help us cope and compensate with the pains, distresses, and anxieties of the present life. “Shall be to all people” means that this salvation that the shepherds heard was not for their private joy, but was a joy common to all people and others should hear of it. This joy is indiscriminately offered to all. For God had promised Christ not to one person or to even one nation, but to the whole seed of Abraham- all those who would believe. If we are deprived from this joy, it is because of our unbelief. Now the middle wall of partition (Eph. 2:14) has been broken down opening up the gospel from one nation to all nations. Christ proclaims peace to those near and also to those far off (Eph. 2:17). 11- “This day is born to you in the town of David a Savior who is Christ the Lord”- “This day” means the day spoken of by the prophets and in the law. “Town of David” recalled the promises universally known among the people of God. “To you” personalized the birth emphatically. It would have given no delight if people didn’t think he was born for them. Isaiah likewise says, “Unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given” (Is. 9:6); and Zechariah “Behold your King comes to you, lowly” (Zech 9:9). 12- “And this shall be a sign for you”- The angel meets the doubt of the shepherds which might naturally hinder their faith; for what a mockery it is that the King the only Savior, is seen lying in a manger. The Lord uses this method every day, though it may seem ridiculous among those who do not believe. He holds signs out to us though they are made of earthly and fading elements, to raise us to the glory of immortality. 13- “A multitude”- what God had made known by one angel was confirmed by many. Among us, the testimony of “two or three witnesses” (Mt. 18:16) is sufficient to remove all doubt. But here is a heavenly host, with one voice testifying to the Son of God. What stubbornness we have if we refuse to join with the choirs of the angels! The Lord intends for us to join in full harmony and unity in faith. “On earth peace- good will towards others”- The peace spoken of hear is not an outward peace, but an inward tranquility. We are born “children of wrath” (Eph. 2:3), and are by nature enemies with God, and must be distressed by fearful apprehensions as long as we feel that God is angry with us. But Christ’s peace alleviates the wrath of God and the dread of death. “Peace on earth” means that so long as we trust in the grace of Christ, no troubles (temptations, dangers, attacks, fears) can arise that will prevent us from enjoying composure and serenity of mind. “Good will” is not the good will of people toward each other, but God’s good will toward us. The One with whom we were at deadly variance has bestowed undeserved favor, and this is the source of our peace.

Thoughts: The angel and the shepherds were the first evangelists. The angels broke the darkness of the night, and the darkness of their humility with good, joyful news. The good news is that the Prince of Peace, the source of our joy and peace has come and broken into the fortress of darkness. We who were prisoners are being rescued, and the rescuer has arrived. Lowly shepherds would not be shocked at the news of the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, being born in a sheep’s pen. To them, this message of relief is much more meaningful than kings (like Herod) who were jealously holding on to what they have in this world. In our day of abundance, many hold onto the world as if it will last forever. This severe recession is a reminder that we cannot have everything. Perhaps we need to let go of the world a bit in order to receive the peace of the gospel. We can do this by giving. God gave His only Son, and his example of giving everything for us, is a great example for us to follow.

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for coming to earth for us. Help us to give to others in response to your greatest gift.

10/27=- Luke 2:1-7 Birth of Christ

(Sheep Cave in Bethlehem traditionally place of birth of Christ)

10/27- Luke 2:1- 7

1 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register. 4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

Calvin abridged: Luke relates how Christ was born in Bethlehem. First he sets aside the idea that he contrived to make it up, by saying that they returned home according to their family and tribe. Mary did not intentionally go to Bethlehem to have the child born there, but their purpose was to obey the edict of Augustus. They were led like blind persons, by the hand of God, to the place where Christ must be born. This would appear to the irreligious (like everything else to them) to be by accident or Fortune. But we must not look only the events themselves. We also must look to the prediction of the prophet many centuries before (Micah 5:2). A comparison will clearly show it to have been accomplished by the wonderful Providence of God, that Augustus’ edict to go to Bethlehem was at that very point in time. Thus we see that the holy servants of God, even if they are unconscious where they are going, still keep to the right path because God directs their steps. God even uses tyrants who were subjugating his people to accomplish his ends. Thus the governor who made this decree of Augustus’ known was a herald of God to Mary- calling her to his appointed place. So God employs wicked tyranny for the redemption of His people. Eusebius says that this registration was an edict by the Senate, but I don’t know what his sources are for saying this. 7- No room for them in the inn. We see here the great poverty of Joseph, the tyranny that made him bring his wife with him in such a poor state. It is probably true that those who descended from the former royal family of David were treated even harsher than the rest. We see what sort of beginning the Son of God had, and in what cradle he was placed. His condition at birth was because he decided to empty himself for our sakes (Phil. 2:7). When he was thrown into a stable, placed in a manger, and a lodging refused him, it was that heaven might be opened to us- not as a temporary lodging, but as our eternal country and inheritance, and that angels might receive us into their house.

Thoughts: Joseph was not a rebel against Rome. He was a powerless, humble carpenter, whose care for his wife meant he had to bring her with him. He went to Bethlehem not knowing he was going to fulfill a prophecy of the King of kings, but thinking he was fulfilling a tyrannical edict from an empire a thousand miles away. Political power has the illusion of accomplishing great good or evil. Many panic over the great power of the United States congress or presidency. But God is in control. The Prince of Peace still gives us peace though worldly powers have great strength.

Prayer: Give us grace to believe in your grace and power Lord. So often we are overwhelmed by human ability and power. Help us to believe your grace – that shows in your coming down to earth for us.

(John the Baptist in the wilderness- Da Vinci)

10/26- LUKE 1:76-80

76 And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High; for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him,
77 to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins,
78 because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven
79 to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace."
80 And the child grew and became strong in spirit; and he lived in the wilderness until he appeared publicly to Israel.

Calvin abridged: “And you my child” Zechariah speaks of Christ’s grace through his son who instructed others. “Called” here means to be considered and openly acknowledged as the prophet of God. A secret inner calling had already taken place. Now that calling was to be shown to others. John would turn people by his preaching to hear the Lord. 77 “to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of sins”- The knowledge of our salvation consists in the forgiveness of our sins. By nature we are ruined and subject to God’s wrath (Eph. 2:3). There is no other way to escape eternal death than by God (2 Cor. 5:19). Righteousness must not be sought in any other place. Proud people want to manufacture a righteousness out of the merits of their good works. But true righteousness is nothing else but the imputation of righteousness, when God, out of free grace, acquits us from guilt. 78- “because of the tender mercy”- This mercy proceeds deep from the innermost part (bowels) of God. Zechariah extols the mercy of God used in dispelling the darkness of death, and restoring to the people of God the light of life. Malcahi calls Christ the “sun of righteousness (Mal. 4:2), meaning that he brings health in his radiance. Isaiah also says, “the people walking in darkness have seen a great light; they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, have a light shined upon them” (Is. 9:1; 60:2). The people of God sit in darkness when they are surrounded by the law. For the godly of every age, Christ’s coming is a light of hope that cheered and preserved them from death. “To guide our feet in the path of peace”- The highest happiness is found in Christ alone who is the author of blessedness. The illumination of the light of Christ tends to pacify people bringing true and all-sufficient happiness (Is. 60:19). 80- “And the child grew”- John became stronger in the spirit meaning that the uncommon excellence of the child showed the Heavenly Spirit lived in him. John made no advances until the appointed time- but waited on the calling of God.

Thoughts; Zechariah shows he was not only a priest, but a prophet, and the father of a prophet. He was prophesying that his son would be greater than he was, and that the messiah would be greater still. He prophesies that Jesus would be a light, a “sun of righteousness” to the people of God who lived in the shadow of death. God has given us the ability to see the beauty of contrast in light and darkness (I think of the paintings of Thomas Kinkaid- www.ThomasKinkaid.com). I also think of that great line in “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” (my favorite Christmas song) that says, “Hail the Sun of righteousness. Light and life to all he brings, risen with healing in his wings.” When we sang this in my Bible study someone asked, “Is that a mistake?” Did Wesley mean “son” instead of “sun?” The sun is a symbol that points to Jesus just as the cross is also his symbol. Yet we don’t use the “sun” much because too many worship it in different ways in our culture. Light brings guidance, it helps us to see where we are going- eliminating stumbling and worry. Jesus does the same for us.

Prayer: Lord, you are our light and our salvation. Help us to live in your light, and reflect your light to the world around us and even to the ends of the earth.

Luke 1:67-75 Zechariahs praise

Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

Luke 1:67-75 Benedictus

67 His father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied:
68 "Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel,
because he has come to his people and redeemed them.
69 He has raised up a horn of salvation for us
in the house of his servant David
70 (as he said through his holy prophets of long ago),
71 salvation from our enemies
and from the hand of all who hate us—
72 to show mercy to our ancestors
and to remember his holy covenant,
73 the oath he swore to our father Abraham:
74 to rescue us from the hand of our enemies,
and to enable us to serve him without fear
75 in holiness and righteousness before him all our days.

Calvin abridged: “Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit” This phrase means that the servants of God receive more abundantly the grace of the Spirit at some times more than others though they were not without it. When the Spirit was given to the prophets, the Spirit was more fully exerted in them when they were brought into the public view to discharge their office. This was a remarkable instance of the goodness of God, that not only did Zacharias recover the power of speech, which he had not enjoyed for nine months, but his tongue became the organ of the Holy Spirit. 68 “Blessed be the Lord God”- He starts with thanksgiving, and by the Spirit describes Christ on which the safety and prosperity of the church depended. The people of God had sunk to such a depth of calamity, and were overwhelmed and distressed, that no one entertained the thought that the eye of God was upon them. The visitation of God is said to be the cause and origin of redemption. The efficacy of Christ’s redemption was the same for those who believed before Christ came. 69- “Raised up the horn of salvation”- speaks of God’s saving power. When the rhtone of David was cast down, and the people were scattered, the hope of salvation had to all appearance perished (cf. Ps. 132:17). David was the chosen servant of God to rule and save the people- as Christ does in fulfillment of that office. 70- “As he said through the prophets”- The means of salvation through Christ is not new- but was predicted by the prophets. This was not just a celebration of God’s truth and promises, but also a witness so that the people might believe in Christ. 71- “Salvation from our enemies”- The Church has always had enemies outward, inward, and spiritual. As long as the Church continues her pilgrimage in the world, she lives amongst her foes but Christ is always at hand to grant assistance. No enemy, power, schemes or attacks will prevent our deliverance to an everlasting salvation (Is. 45:17). The fountain from which redemption flowed is God’s mercy and covenant (vs. 72). This mercy also extended to those ancestors in the Old Testament. It is not that the Old Testament fathers earned their faith by keeping the law. 74- “To enable us to serve him”- God has a purpose so that being redeemed they may dedicate and consecrate themselves to the Author of their salvation. The final cause is that we might glorify His name. We should remember this our calling carefully. We are admitted by adoption into the family of God that we may yield obedience as children to a father. We frustrate the grace of Christ if we do not follow that design (Gal. 2:21). “without fear”- This implies that we cannot worship God properly without composure of mind. Those who wonder if God is favorable or hostile to them who fluctuate between hope and fear will be anxious in their worship of God, but not obey Him. We must obtain peace of conscience before our worship of God. 75- “In holiness and righteousness” We serve God properly when we serve him with holiness and righteousness looking to do so all the days of our lives.

Thoughts: This passage is sometimes called the “Benedictus” after the Latin translation of the first words here. God sought to bless all peoples through his Messiah’s coming. Zechariah knew that John’s coming meant the Messiah was close at hand. He had his ear to the ground, listening for God to speak to him—especially after the angel came and made him mute. There is an 84 foot antennae dish (radio telescope) outside of Harvard whose main job is to listen for extra terrestrial life. This takes a great deal of time and money. I wonder if we would do the same for listening for God and His will for us.

Prayer: Lord, you are worthy of praise and help us to love you and hear your voice.

10.23 Luke 1:56-66 Naming of John

Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth. Commentaries from the Gospels.

Luke 1:56- 66

56 Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about three months and then returned home. 57 When it was time for Elizabeth to have her baby, she gave birth to a son. 58 Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown her great mercy, and they shared her joy. 59 On the eighth day they came to circumcise the child, and they were going to name him after his father Zechariah, 60 but his mother spoke up and said, "No! He is to be called John." 61 They said to her, "There is no one among your relatives who has that name." 62 Then they made signs to his father, to find out what he would like to name the child. 63 He asked for a writing tablet, and to everyone's astonishment he wrote, "His name is John." 64 Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue was loosed, and he began to speak, praising God. 65 The neighbors were all filled with awe, and throughout the hill country of Judea people were talking about all these things. 66 Everyone who heard this wondered about it, asking, "What then is this child going to be?" For the Lord's hand was with him.
Calvin Abridged: These verses tell us that the birth of John was distinguished by various miracles, which gave reason to expect, that something great and remarkable would appear in the child in the future. Mary remained three months with her cousin- or until John was born: for it is probable that she had no other reason to stay so long. 58 “Her neighbors and relatives heard”- The neighbors may have heard of Zechariah’s vision, but it is even more probable that since the parents were so old and barren, that they shared their joy. Though they administered circumcision in the home, they would gather a crowd. This was a sacrament of the church, and therefore should not be done in private. 59- “they were going to name him after his father Zechariah”- Names used to be given by an occurrence or prophesy, but later people named their children after their ancestors. Habits and need sometimes become law, so they wanted to name the child after the father. We shouldn’t imagine there is sacredness in names, but believers should make a godly and profitable choice of names (so naming them after godly rather than ungodly persons is helpful- so maybe they will imitate their namesake). 60- “His name is John”- Zechariah probably informed his wife in writing what the angel had enjoined regarding the name. Otherwise, he would not have obeyed the command of God. 64- “His tongue was loosed”- God places honor on John’s birth by restoring the speech of his father. Zechariah blessed God not only to testify to his gratitude, but to tell his relatives and neighbors of God’s punishment placed upon him because he had been too slow to believe. 66- “The neighbors were filled with awe”- This fear comes from the feeling of divine power. The works of God ought to be contemplated by us so that we think more seriously about God. Though the word spread, few remembered this later. This is a general mirror of human ingratitude. We firmly remember trifling and frivolous events, but divine miracles quickly fade and disappear from our thoughts. “The Lord’s hand was with him”- this means that the grace of God was strikingly visible to show that he was no an ordinary person- and all would acknowledge the presence of God.

Thoughts; Travel was hard and sometimes unsafe, so Mary stayed awhile- until the birth. Seeing that birth strengthened her faith in the angel’s prophesies to her. When we see miracles in other, it should strengthen us. Some like to create artificial miracles to get attention- as the hoax around the weather balloon this week. The parents claimed their son was on the free-floating balloon when he was really hiding in the attic. They hoped to land a reality show from this event, instead they may land in jail. They were a leading story for five news agencies- it was much ado about nothing. It is interesting about how a standard newsmaker is a missing child. It is such an emotional event. We put pictures up in Walmart, and on milk cartons. One statistic I saw said that 85% of kidnapped children are found and unharmed. Children rightly important to us. You can imagine how the neighbors gathered over this clear miracle of a baby being born to an old, barren couple. ”John” means “God is gracious” John was a visible sign that God was gracious to the people of that day. He was to be God’s grace preparing the way for the messiah.

Prayer: Thank you for your grace, Lord. Open our eyes to see your gracious hand working in the lives of others and in the birth of children.

10/22- Luke 1:51-55 God Honors

(Anunciation Raphael)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

10/22/09 Luke 1:51-55


51 He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. 52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. 53 He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. 54 He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful 55 to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors."

Calvin abridged: “He has performed mighty deeds” – The arm of God is contrasted with every other aid: as when Isaiah said, “I looked and there was none to help (Isa. 63:5). The proud gain nothing by endeavoring to oppose God; or, because God does not display the power of his arm for salvation, except in the case of the humble, while the proud are thrown down. So Peter [and James] say, “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord that He may lift you up” (1 Pt. 5:6). “Scattered the proud…in their thoughts”- As their pride and ambition are outrageous, as their covetousness is insatiable, they pile up deliberations into an immense heap- building the tower of Babel (Gen 11:9). When God has for a time looked down from heaven on their splendid preparations, he unexpectedly scatters the whole mass—as when a building is overturned, and its parts formerly together, are widely scattered in every direction. 52- “He has brought down rulers”- God does not delight in changes or elevate in mockery to a lofty station, those whom he has determined to quickly throw down. It is the depravity of human beings that overturns the state of things, because no one acknowledges that the disposal of everyone is placed in his will and power. When Mary says that it is God who casts down nobles and exalts the humble, she teaches us that the world does not revolve by a blind impulse of Fortune, but by the Providence of God and his justice. “He has filled the hungry with good things, and has sent the rich away empty”- This is because the great, the rich and powerful, raised by their abundance, ascribe all the praise to themselves, and leave nothing to God. We should carefully be on our guard against being carried away by prosperity, and a proud contentment in the non-spiritual, lest God should suddenly deprive us of what we enjoy. To the godly who are poor or hungry and lift up their cry to God, this doctrine that God cares for their need is a great consolation. 54-“He has helped his servant Israel”- The meaning is that God has now granted the salvation that was previously promised. “Servant” could also be translated “child”; The reason why the nation was lifted up though it was fallen was so that his mercy would be shown in its preservation. 55- “To Abraham and to his descendants”- She is talking of the solemn covenant with Abraham and his posterity. We are part of his descendants if we have the faith of Abraham.

Thoughts: We are proud in our thoughts. In our culture we believe we are ontologically better than the people of old. Not just that we have more gadgets and easier lives, but that we really know so much better. In our knowledge (which puffs up), we go against what Mary has said. There is a huge difference in believing it is all up to us, and trusting in God as the lifter of our heads. The difference is not found in our actions as much as in our attitudes. Mary is someone who would have disappeared in history, but instead is the leading female of all of history. This poor servant girl would be remembered more than most kings , queens, dukes, or politicians. Luke who wrote these words, could not have possibly understood how her fame would be spread through all of history and throughout the world, almost to the edge of worship by some. Mary knew God was lifting her up, and she knew it not by a political poll, or someone giving her a trophy or an interview- but by shear faith. We would do well to imitate her trust in God. When God was lifting up the boy Samuel to a position where he would anoint kings, he said, "He who honors me I will honor." God lifts us up, and He is worthy of our honor.

Prayer: You, O Lord, are a shield around us. You’re our glory and the lifter of our heads. (Psalm 3:3).

Luke 1:46-50 The Magnificate

(Mary's well in St. Gabriel's Church in Nazareth- the traditional site of the anunciation. Tradition says Mary was going for water when the angel appeared).
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

Luke 1:46- 50- The Magnificate

46 And Mary said: "My soul glorifies the Lord 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has been mindful
of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, 49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me— holy is his name. 50 His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation.

Calvin abridged: This is a remarkable and interesting song of the holy virgin, which plainly shows how great the grace she had from the Spirit. There are three clauses to this song. First Mary offers thanks for the mercy of God which she had experienced. Next she celebrates God’s power and judgments. Third she applies this to what God was doing in bringing the promised redemption. 46- My soul glorifies the Lord- Here Mary gives her gratitude. Mary was not just talking on the outside, but was singing from her heart. “Spirit” speaks of the understanding, while “soul” focuses on the affections. She calls God “Savior” which brings her joy which turns into praise. Unless we recognize God as our Savior, we are not free to indulge in true and full joy but will remain in doubt and anxiety. 48- “For he has been mindful”- Her joy is based on God’s looking upon her. By calling herself of “humble state” she says she did not deserve this grace, and praises the undeserved goodness of God. She was of no account in the eyes of the world, and her estimation of herself was just as low. She announces that this kindness will be remembered through all generations. If this is to be proclaimed in every age everywhere, then Mary should not keep quiet either since the grace is bestowed on her. Mary did not see herself with the titles sometimes given her (like “Queen of Heaven, Star of Salvation, Gate of Life” etc.). The praises for Mary are spurious which do not exalt the power and grace of God. 49- “holy is his name”- God is holy because it is held in highest reverence.
His mercy extends from generation to generation quotes from Psalm 103:17,18. This mercy is for those who fear him- or believe and reverence him. “Fear” incorporates the idea of godliness and religion which cannot occur without faith. God does not sit idly in heaven looking down to see who is worthy of his mercy. Part of God’s grace is eliciting fear godly fear and majesty among his children.

Thought: The magnificate is one of the greatest songs ever written. It speaks of the power and willingness of God to lift up the humble. This gives hope to those who are downtrodden or struggling in life. It is reminiscent of Hannah’s prayer giving thanks for the birth of her son Samuel, and of Miriam’s song that gave thanks that the poor Israelites were rescued from the powerful Egyptian army. It is a reminder that God still acts and cares for the humble. No one is too small to be helped. No one is so great that they do not need God’s help. It also tells us the value of each individual. We should treat the poor, the unwed mothers, the uneducated, the humbled, those without power with respect as Mary is worthy of respect. We should imitate her humility. In out day, there is little humility, and few see the need for God’s help. In the midst of one of the worst recessions in the history of our nation, not many are asking us to call out for God’s mercy and help.

Prayer: Help us, O God, to give you the glory, and also to recognize your great love and ability to lift us up.

10/21- Luke 1:39-45; Elizabeth's Visitation

(Elizabeth's visitation- Overbeck 1789-1869)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

Lk. 1:39- 45
39 At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, 40 where she entered Zechariah's home and greeted Elizabeth. 41 When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42 In a loud voice she exclaimed: "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! 43 But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. 45 Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!"

Calvin abridged: “Mary got ready”- Mary’s faith continues in response to the angel’s message even after the angel was gone. Why did she travel to see Elizabeth? Partly to increase and strengthen her faith, and partly to celebrate the grace of God which both had received. 41- “When Elizabeth heard” – It is natural that joy in a pregnant woman should cause motion in her child. But Luke indicates this was out of the ordinary. The baby John started in her womb, and she prophesied. 42- “Blessed are you among woman” Mary was blessed because of the blessedness of Jesus. Today the blessedness of Christ cannot be the subject of our praise, without reminding us of the blessedness of Mary too. 43- “Why am I so highly favored?” Some people like to delight beyond measure in themselves, and desire to shine alone, despising God’s gifts in their brothers and sisters. Others praise them so much that they are changed into idols. Elizabeth does not envy Mary, but rejoices with her, ascribing everything to God. “Mother of my lord” – Elizabeth ascribes praise to Christ inside Mary’s womb by the power of the Holy Spirit. 45 “Blessed is she who has believed the Lord would fulfill his promises to her.” Mary was blessed because the Savior was also her own savior. Mary received by faith the blessing offered to her. The word (promises) and faith work together here. In the act of believing we give our assent to God who speaks his promises to us. So we infer that it doesn’t matter whether God uses angels or humans, He wishes equal honor be given to his Word as if he were visibly descending from heaven.

Thoughts: John was prophesying even from the womb. For the Savior of the world, but also of Elizabeth, John, and Mary was there. Some have thought that Mary went to celebrate God’s favor (as Calvin mentions), but also to escape derision or persecution in her hometown during Mary’s pregnancy. Even in the womb Jesus is bearing a powerful testimony to his salvation. It should not go unnoticed in our society that Mary was an unwed mother, and that it would have been easy in our society for Mary, if she had not believed the angel’s message, to have an abortion. God protected Jesus and used him even in the womb to change those around him. There is power in a baby to change people- bringing hope to a marriage, joy to a grandparent, and how much more this special baby.

Prayer: We are blessed, O Lord, by you. Thank you for coming to us, through Mary, that we might know you and be forgiven and filled by you.

10/20- Nothing is Impossible with God Luke 1:34-38

(Annunciation- Henry Ossawa Tanner)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

10/20

Lk. 1:34- 38
34"How will this be," Mary asked the angel, "since I am a virgin?" 35The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. 36Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her sixth month. 37For nothing is impossible with God." 38"I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said." Then the angel left her.

Calvin abridged: “How will this be?” Even the holy virgin confines God’s power to narrow limits just as Zechariah had done. She concludes that what is beyond the way things usually happen is impossible. While she ought to have immediately by faith given thanks to the boundless power of God, she instead holds back restricting God to the ordinary power of generation. Still she doesn’t stop there permanently but is only astonished so that she asks the question. That she eventually put faith in God to do the improbable is evident when she didn’t ask more questions like, “where is the throne of David?” 35- “The Holy Spirit shall come upon you”- The angel does not explain the details so that all curiosity is answered, for there is no necessity to do so. He only leads the virgin to contemplate the power of the Holy Spirit and to surrender herself silently and calmly to his guidance. The word “come upon” (epeleusetai) denotes that this would be an extraordinary work, and not just an ordinary natural event. “The power of the Most High shall overshadow you”- The Spirit may be seen as the essential power of God whose energy is shown and exerted in the entire government of the world, as well as in miraculous events. “So the holy one to be born”- Some wrongly say that he was called the Son of God because he was conceived in a remarkable manner by the power of the Holy Spirit. But here “the Holy One to be born” indicates He is the Word of God begotten before the ages that now clothes himself in human flesh. “Son of God” is a title that belongs to the divine essence of Christ from the beginning, but now is applied to both natures. This gives us confidence to risk calling God our Father because his only Son, in order that we may have a Father in common with him, chose to be our brother. 36- “Even Elizabeth, your cousin”- The angel tries to encourage her to believe the miracle by what has already taken place among her own relative. The sixth month is usually after the month when the baby moves (quickening), so there is no doubt about the birth.
37- “For nothing is impossible with God”- The meaning is God will do what he has promised, for nothing can hinder or resist his power (Rom. 4:20,21). There is nothing that possibly stops the word of God. We ought to always contemplate his boundless power, that it may strengthen our hope and confidence. Yet it is useless to argue about what God can do, when God only does what he resolves to do. 2 Timothy 1:12 says, “I know whom I have believed and I am persuaded he is able to keep what he has promised.” 38- “I am the Lord’s servant”- The holy virgin does not dispute the angel any further. She restrains her mind so that her faith is not repressed. Boldness in disputing is the mother of unbelief. She gives and devotes herself unreservedly to the Lord. Unbelievers withdraw from his hand and obstruct his work. But faith yields to obedience. Faith gives us up to his power making us obedient, but unbelief makes us rebels and deserters. “May it be to me”- Here she is convinced of God’s power, follows where he calls, trusts in his promise, and not only expects, but eagerly desires its accomplishment.


Thoughts: It is too easy to restrict God to not doing anything unusual. It is too easy to pray and not expect an answer (as Zechariah did). Mary shows a faith that we can learn from- it is the faith of a child- that nothing is impossible with God. Mary believed God could do a miracle if he said he would. To not believe that God can do the unusual is to put God in a box, and make God into our own image- making him an idol. We all have a tendency to do this, and the fight against unbelief is an ongoing one. We do not need to water down the faith-saying we don’t need faith to have faith (we don’t need to believe the unusual or supernatural). To remove the supernatural from God is like removing God’s power from God- so that we are taking God’s teeth out- making him a toothless lion. The conception and virgin birth are not just saying that Jesus is unusual. It is not just the story that is important, it is also the reality behind the story- for is the person of Jesus is not real, and is not sent from God, then he was just another extraordinary teacher. It takes Mary’s faith to believe what happened to Mary. We should have her same attitude that nothing is impossible with God, and also her attitude of submission- may it be to us as you have said.

Prayer: Lord, give me faith that I might believe that nothing is impossible with you.

10/19- Luke 1:26-33 The Anunciation

(Anunciation Leonardo Da Vinci))

Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.


Luke 1:26-33
26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary. 28 The angel went to her and said, "Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you." 29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30 But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end."

Calvin abridged: It is a wondrous part of the divine purpose that God decides to make the beginning of the herald more illustrious than that of his own Son, The prophecy about John was published in the temple and universally known; but Christ is promised to a virgin in an obscure town in Judea and is hidden in the breast of the young woman. God chose a virgin betrothed to a man so that his son might be supposed to be the son of Joseph until it was discovered by many that he was the son of God. 28- “Greetings you who are highly favored” [Catholic version- “Hail Mary full of grace”]- A conviction of the Divine grace or goodness is the entrance of faith, and the angel observes this order, then he enlarges her faith to receive and incomprehensible mystery. The Greek work here (kecharitomene) denotes the undeserved favor of God (cf. Eph. 1:6). “The Lord is with you”- To those on whom he has once bestowed his love God shows himself gracious and kind (Ps. 103:4). “Found favor with God” [blessed among women]- Blessing is a proof of Divine kindness. The word doesn’t mean “worthy of praise” but “happy.” This is similar to Paul’s greetings of grace and peace (Rom. 1:7; Eph. 1:2) . This implies that we will be truly happy and rich when we are beloved by God. If Mary’s favor and grace come from the undeserved love of God, and flow from Divine kindness, then should we seek from her what she derives from another? 29- “Mary was greatly troubled”- She was not agitated by the presence of the angel as much as by his address. Mary did not lose her composure for she was considering the meaning of the salutation. This example reminds us, that we ought not to be careless observers of the work of God, and that our consideration of them should be regulated by fear and reverence. 30- “You have found favor” could be translated you have received mercy. 31- “you shall conceive” – the angel adapts his words to Isaiah’s prophecy (7:14). The word conceive sets aside the idea (promoted by Marcion and Manachaeus) that Jesus was merely a phantom. “name Jesus” Matthew adds that Jesus means “to save his people from their sins” (1:21). It is the same as the Hebrew Joshua. The name itself is not magic, as if in its very syllables majesty resided, but that the highest authority- to which the whole world should submit. 32-“He shall be great”- The angel said the same thing about John the Baptist, yet that did not make him equal to Christ. Angels and kings are sometimes given the title “great” in scripture, but they are great in comparison with other humans, whereas the Son of God is great in comparison to all (Phil. 2:9-11; Heb. 1:5). “Son of the Most High”- Christ is the Only Begotten Son. Our adopted sonship (in which we may call God ‘Abba Father’ Rom. 8:15; Ga. 4:6) is derived from his real sonship. “Throne of his father David”- Whenever the prophets talked about the restoration of the people they talked about the throne of David being restored (Jer. 30:9; Ezek. 34:24; 37:24; Hosea 3:5; Amos 9:11). The angels was thus speaking of the revival of the people of God. 33- “And he shall reign” God speaks of Christ’s reign over all the earth beginning with the house of Jacob. His throne was erected among the people of Israel, that he might from there subdue the whole world. “Forever- without end”- It was frequently predicted that David would always have a son on the throne. The angel points out that the glory of David and Solomon will be restored or even exceeded (Ps. 72:5,17). Its true perpetuity relates to the glory to come. So we too will reign forever with him when we gather together in heaven.

Thoughts: The angel came with astonishing news, to a humble maid. Mary’s response shows how humbled she was by this. It is her pure trust and humility and wonderful response that we should imitate. In our world of celebrities flaunting their looks, their cars, their houses, their fame, we should remember Mary- whose fame will outlast any rock star or TV star. The greatest among us would do well to imitate Mary’s humility and trust in God’s unmerited favor (grace). She is full of unmerited favor (grace), and we should seek the same. What does it take to restore the Church to its rightful place? It takes the centrality of Jesus. He is the King, and the farther we move from Him, the farther we move from the restoration of David’s throne. Our being children of God is derived from His being the Son of God.

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, that you choose the humble. Help us to humble ourselves in your sight that you may lift us up.

10/19 Luke 1:21-25 Blessing of Children

(Birth of John the Baptist Artemisia Gentileschi c. 1635)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

Luke 1:21-25
21 Meanwhile, the people were waiting for Zechariah and wondering why he stayed so long in the temple. 22 When he came out, he could not speak to them. They realized he had seen a vision in the temple, for he kept making signs to them but remained unable to speak. 23 When his time of service was completed, he returned home. 24 After this his wife Elizabeth became pregnant and for five months remained in seclusion. 25 "The Lord has done this for me," she said. "In these days he has shown his favor and taken away my disgrace among the people.”

Calvin abridged: Luke relates that the people were witnesses of this vision. Zechariah had stayed later in the temple than usual. This led some to suppose that he had something uncommon happen to him. When he comes out, he makes known by looks and gestures that he has been struck dumb. True, there were few or no visions in that time, but the people remembered the stories of the former appearances of God. 23- “He returned home”- priests lived in the temple during their terms of service in order to keep themselves pure. Some say this is a reason for celibacy, but if so, they should also keep the commands for priests to abstain from wine or strong drink (Ezek. 44:21), or to exclude themselves from the people.
Zechariah was married, and marriage is honorable in all (Heb. 13:4). 24- “Remained in seclusion” – Some think she was ashamed of God’s blessing, or was uncertain of the upcoming birth. But I think, in light of Zechariah’s punishment, she was fully convinced of the certainty of the birth. She said, “The Lord has done this for me”- out of belief. She may have delayed going out in public because the world talks irreverently about the things of God; or that if people saw herself fully pregnant they might be more apt to praise God than if they saw her gradually grow with child. She praises God in private for His goodness, until the time is ripe for making this known publicly. “Taken away my disgrace”- She assigns her barrenness to the withdrawal of God’s favor. If animals having offspring is a blessing, how much more having our own children (Psalm 127:3). There is a universal sense of the blessing of having children, but there is a particular blessing designated to Abraham to have children (Gen. 13:15,16; 15:5). Let parents, then, be thankful to God for their children which he has given them, and let those who have no offspring acknowledge that God has humbled them in this matter. Elizabeth speaks of barrenness as a reproach among human beings. It is a temporary chastisement, which doesn’t take away any blessings in heaven.
Thought: Calvin and his wife had at least three miscarriages, and their young son died a few weeks after birth. No doubt Calvin felt the pain of being without children. One of his famous sayings was that he had a son… but he has today many children in the faith. I have often thought about how those who cannot have children look at this passage as well as that of Abraham and Sarah’s conception. Calvin indicated that it is humbling to not have children, yet he recognized that in heaven such reproaches would be taken away. He probably looked forward to that. Children are a blessing. In our busy world, some see kids as a secondary part of life after work. But children are more our legacy than our work. The Bible speaks a lot more about the importance of passing our faith down to our children, than passing our craft or abilities down to the next generation/

Prayer: Lord, thank you for children, especially among the godly. Help us to welcome them as you did.

10/17- Unbelief in the Midst of Faith Lk. 1:18-20

[Zechariah and Gabriel]
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

Luke 1:18-20
18 Zechariah asked the angel, "How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years." 19 The angel said to him, "I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you this good news. 20 And now you will be silent and not able to speak until the day this happens, because you did not believe my words, which will come true at their appointed time."

Calvin abridged: This is about the doubt of Zechariah, and the punishment the Lord inflicted on him for his unbelief. He had prayed that he might have children, and now that it is promised, he distrusts as if he had forgotten his own prayers and faith. It might, at first brush appear harsh that God is so offended by his reply. He brings forth his old age as an objection- which Abraham did too (and yet he was commended Rom. 4:19). Mary made a similar objection at her annunciation (“How can this be since I am a virgin?”). But the angel passed over her objection. If words are the only factor, then it might be unfair. But God looks at the action and the heart. Unquestionably, the Lord saw something in Zechariah worse than his words may bear, since God looks at the heart (Heb. 4:13). God distinguished between Sarah’s laugh and Abraham’s question (Gen. 18:12; 17:17) though one apparently doesn’t differ from the other.
We don’t have a right to lay down a law to God which keeps him from the freedom to punish a fault or pardon another. We ought not to hold that God will do no more than what is probable, as if his hand were limited to our senses and confined to an earthly perspective. Zechariah clearly believed he heard the voice of God, but then refused to believe what God said would really happen. Yet Zechariah did not give up on his faith. We need to understand that when God brings us into his favor, he give us many special promises,-- that he will feed us, will deliver us form dangers, will vindicate our reputation, will protect our life; --and so there is a special faith which answers to each promise- and some may waver to these promises. Let us be aware that those who are weak in one area or on an occasion do not entirely depart or fall from the faith, and though the branches may fall in a storm, the root stands firm. We all should keep watch- if someone so eminently holy, who had maintained a strict watchfulness over himself was overtaken by such evil snares. 19- “I am Gabriel”- The angel was indicating that the truth of what he was saying was not based on him , but on God- who sent him with this message. Gabriel was an ambassador from God who gave the promise. Jesus said, “He who despises you despises me; and he that despises me despises the one who sent me” (Lk. 10:16). There is a sense in which those who preach the gospel are not to be despised lest God is despised. Hebrews indicates that the gospel message delivered by people is more significant than the law delivered by angels (Heb. 2:2; 10:29). The obedience of faith is of higher value than all sacrifices, and we should render such obedience to God. 20- “and now you will be silent”- This is appropriate in that faith needs silence to lend an ear to the Word of God. Afterwards we may respond with an amen. God softens his punishment by limiting it to ten months, and still fulfilling his promise. So God deals with us- when our faith is weak, his benefits still flow to us. Sometimes God even grants unbelievers promises, even though they lack faith (eg. Ahaz Isa. 7:12). So Zechariah was chastened and at the same time pardoned.

Thoughts: No one has perfect faith on this side of heaven. Zechariah believed in God and was a holy man. He prayed, but did not believe God would really answer his prayer. Zechariah was confronted with a powerful angel and still did not believe in God’s power to grant him a son in old age. Many say, “If I could only have some sign, I would believe more.” Zechariah had a sign in the form of a powerful angel and still did not believe. God shows that He is not pleased with Zechariah’s unbelief in His power and ability, by making him mute, but he still kept his promise. How many today pray but do not believe in the power of God to answer our prayers. God is still the Creator and sustainer of all things. God sees things the doctors do not. God understands the heavens better than the smartest astronomer. God is able to do more than we think is probable. By restricting God’s power, we are limiting our own faith. In our day, the church has such weak belief. God has muted our influence on society, and the Church’s voice today. Yet God’s purposes will be achieved.

Prayer: Lord, we believe, help our unbelief. Gives us not only eyes to see you, but hearts to believe you.

10/16- John's Glory and Peace Come From God Luke 1:14-17

(John the Baptist in the wilderness Il Bachiacca 1521-23)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

Luke 1:14-17

14 He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, 15 for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He is never to take wine or other fermented drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even before he is born. 16 Many of the people of Israel will he bring back to the Lord their God. 17 And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the parents to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous—to make ready a people prepared for the Lord."

Calvin abridged: “He will be a joy” This is a greater joy than what Zechariah would derive from the birth of an ordinary child, and the joy would not be confined to him alone- but even strangers would rejoice in his message. 15- “He shall be great”- is a confirmation of what he said about joy. John was great because of his great and extraordinary purpose. Jesus declared that “among those born of women there was not one greater than John the Baptist” (Mt. 11:11). “never to take wine or fermented drink” – this was the vow of the Nazarite who would abstain until their vow was fulfilled (Nbrs. 6:3). Priests also were to abstain while they were performing their duties (Lev. 10:9). But John was to be a Nazarite for his whole life (similar to Samson Jdg. 13:3,4). But we must not assume that worship of God consists in abstinence of wine. We all should practice temperance- so that those who think it is harmful to drink should abstain on their own, and those who don’t have wine not to envy others. The word for “wine” here is any sort of manufactured wine. “He will be filled with the Holy Spirit even before he is born.” The meaning is that the power and grace of the Spirit will appear in him not only in public, but with special and abundant gifts of the Spirit and attention would be brought to him even before he was born. Christ alone was given the Spirit without measure (Jn. 3:34; 1:16). Those who are given grace that exceeds the ordinary capacity are said to be filled with the Holy Ghost. 16-“Many people he will bring back”- This shows how corrupt the church of the time was- with corrupt doctrine, depraved morals, and disorderly government- so that it was almost a miracle that a few continued in godliness. If this happened to the ancient church, the church of our time should not think it is impossible to err. Much power is attributed to John, and we should learn from this that whenever Scripture applauds the efficacy in the ministry of people, we should learn to attribute this to the grace of the Spirit. For without the Spirit, the human voice would be spent speaking uselessly into the air. So when Paul boats that he is a minister of the Spirit (2 Cor. 3:6) he makes no claims for his own abilities apart from God as if his own voice penetrated peoples’ hearts. Scripture reminds us that ministers are nothing in themselves, but the glory goes undivided to God. 17- “And he will go on before the Lord”- This was John’s office to before Christ as a herald before a king (Mal. 3:1). “With the spirit and power of Elijah”- This does not mean that Elijah’s soul passed into the body of John, but the same Spirit of God, who acted efficaciously in Elijah also acted well in the Baptist. As Elijah restored the decayed worship of God, so John also was an agent in the restoration of worship in his day. He would bring back people to each other in a restored unity of faith (Mal. 4:5). As in Elijah’s day, so in John’s the scripture had degenerated through countless imaginations and ideas, the worship of God was corrupted by gross superstition, religion was divided into various sects, priests were openly wicked, and the people indulged in every sort of wickedness. The covenant had been broken with the faith of the fathers. There is a false peace (often promoted by the religious) in which men agree with each other in their disobedience apart from God. This is a false peace that ends in ultimate vanity and destruction. To have peace with each other, we should seek peace with God.

Thoughts: John the Baptists glory was found in God alone. His peace also was found through God alone. Here was a man who wore camel skins and ate wild locusts. This is a symbol that his glory was not found in looks or fashion, but in the Spirit within Him. So we should seek to honor God more than seek our own fashion. There is a temporary peace that is found in being just like everyone else. The thought is if we are just as wicked as the other people, then we will not stand out, nor convict them, and everyone will like us. But there is no peace for the wicked- there is only restlessness- an itch that cannot be scratched except by coming to God. John didn’t mind standing out, nor did he mind calling out those who had messed up (“repent!” is an unsettling call). We can learn a lesson from John in his willingness in a very concrete way to point to an ultimate peace. John and Elijah ministered in a day when morals, religion, politics, and abilty to get along were decaying rapidly. We need people like them today- perhaps our young adults to show us the way back to God- and turning our hearts to each other.

Prayer: Lord, raise up someone who wouldn’t say “peace, peace” to the wicked, but someone who will point to you. Help us, O God, to turn to you with our whole hearts.

10/15- Luke 1:5-13 Zechariah and Elizabeth-God prepares to come

[Zechariah and Gabriel]
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

Luke 1: 5- 13

5 In the time of Herod king of Judea there was a priest named Zechariah, who belonged to the priestly division of Abijah; his wife Elizabeth was also a descendant of Aaron. 6 Both of them were righteous in the sight of God, observing all the Lord's commands and decrees blamelessly. 7 But they were childless because Elizabeth was not able to conceive, and they were both well advanced in years.
8 Once when Zechariah's division was on duty and he was serving as priest before God, 9 he was chosen by lot, according to the custom of the priesthood, to go into the temple of the Lord and burn incense. 10 And when the time for the burning of incense came, all the assembled worshipers were praying outside.
11 Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. 12 When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear. 13 But the angel said to him: "Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John.

Calvin abridged: Luke begins his Gospel with John the Baptist, just as a person who was going to speak about daylight would commence with the dawn. For, like the dawn, he went before the Sun of Righteousness, which was shortly to arise. Luke secures our respect for him while he is yet unborn, by pointing out the miracles around the earliest part of John’s existence, and by showing his commission from heaven as a prophet. 5-“Herod king of Judea”- Some think that Herod the Great was mentioned as he was the first foreign king; so that now was a suitable time for deliverance. But what is more important is that during Herod’s time the Jews retained some semblance of governing by the Sanhedrin (who were descendants of David then) whom Herod destroyed. “Zechariah of the family of Abijah”- The families of priests were arranged in certain groups by David (1 Chronicles 24:3,31). David’s intent in doing this was to have order instead of chaos, partly to oppose ambition, partly to provide that a few persons would not have all the power- by being in charge of the service and leaving the rest unemployed at home. Zechariah was descended from Abijah of Eleazar (Nbr. 20:28). So Elizabeth, Mary’s cousin, was a daughter of a Levite, as priests were permitted by law to marry a Levite.
6 “both righteous in the sight of God” – This is a noble testimony that they were not only honored among people, but they were upright and holy before God. We ought to see that those who regulate their lives by the commandments are considered righteous. When worshippers do not obey the law, worship is counterfeit [Calvin translates dikaiomata as ordinances- not decrees-thus applying it to their worship]. They are righteous in that the fear of God lives in them-not that they were perfect. Yet they cannot please God without getting forgiveness. 7- “They were childless”- By an extraordinary purpose of God, it was appointed that John should be born out of the common and ordinary course of nature (similar to Isaac Gen. 17:17; 21:1-3). 9 “according to the custom of the priesthood”- The law commanded that incense should be offered twice each day (Ex. 30:7,8). The priesthood is a living illustration that we need someone between God and us (as the priests were only allowed in the inner courts). Only one priest at a time was permitted into the Holy Place. The incense was to remind the people that the sweet savor of their prayers do not go up to heaven unless they go through a sacrifice of a Mediator. 12 “Zechariah was startled and gripped with fear”- Though God does not appear to his servants in order to terrify them, yet it is advantageous and necessary that they be struck with awe (Ps. 33:8), that they may learn to give God the glory due his name (Ps. 29:2). The presence of God fills people with alarm which not only leads them to reverence, but humbles the pride of the flesh- which is so strong that God’s power must overcome them. We can also infer that when God is absent is when we indulge in self-pride and flattery. 13- “Fear not”- The glory of God does not swallow us up with dread, but after it has abased our pride and foolish confidence, he stretches out his hand to raise them up. God does not stretch forth his gracious hand to the reprobate. We have no reason to fear if we know God, but we can be at peace. “Call his name John”- John means “the grace of the Lord” (1 Chr. 3:15). John’s grace is the mission he would bring to all. It should be noted that this grace and name are given to him before he was born [the grace of God precedes our actions].

Thought: The Jewish faith was losing hope. Herod was now king, the Romans were in charge, and even the symbolic Davidic judging of the Sanhedrin was about to be destroyed. By 70 A.D., the whole nation would be obliterated. The religious life of the day was in ferment and dividing- and under attack by the super secular Herodians, those who believed little- the Saducees, and those who were legalistic-the Pharisees. There were still godly people (like Elizabeth, Zechariah, Anna, Simeon), but most of them were older. The faith had little hope in that day. In such a context the power of God began to show itself again and God Himself came down. In our day, the Church in the west is weak, left with only a skeletal framework, and rapidly losing faith (in the last ten years there has been a 10% decrease in attendance in America). It appears also that the Church in the west is getting older demographically. Yet God is not dead nor doth He sleep. God’s power is often shown when we are weak. So once again, come Lord Jesus! Come and renew us. Come and abide with us in our lives, our families, our churches.

Prayer: O come to us, abide with us, our Lord, Emmanuel!”

10/14- Luke 1:1-4 Trustworthiness of the Gospel

(10th cenury Byzantine icon of Luke)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

10/14- Luke 1

1 Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us, 2 just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word. 3 With this in mind, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I too decided to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, 4 so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught. (Luke 1:1-4)

Calvin abridged: Luke is the only Evangelist who has a preface to his Gospel, for the purpose of explaining briefly his motive for writing. Some say that Luke wrote to godly people who loved God [the meaning of the name “Theophilus”]. But here it is the same as Paul’s writings that were addressed to certain individuals and cities though the passage applied to all (I Tim. 1:14; 3:14). “Many have undertaken to draw up an account”- This sounds like a reason to not write a gospel. But Luke was not saying other writings were false as much as he wanted to add to them (especially things that may have been left out, or only oral accounts). God was sorting out, by this the gospels that reflected brightly his adorable majesty from the disgusting stories under the pseudonyms of Nicodemus or others that are palmed upon the world. “fulfilled among us”- refers to things fully ascertained and do not contain any doubt. While faith ultimately rests on the inward confirmation of the Holy Spirit who seals the testimony, once this confirmation is inside of us there is some weight to the knowledge which we obtain by our own observation or the statement of others (historical knowledge). He also intimates that those from whom he had received this information had been divinely authorized to preach the Gospel. It is important that Luke says he uses eyewitnesses. God has used every method to prevent our faith from resting on the doubtful and shifting opinions of human beings. There is less room for excusing the ingratitude of the world that would openly prefer uncertainty in the Gospels, which would come out of vague and unfounded reports. “Carefully investigated”- This notes that a careful examination was performed so that everything in the Gospel had been recorded well as if from a spectator’s viewpoint.

Thoughts: Luke is a necessary fourth viewpoint of Jesus’ life. He approaches his work less like a theologian (than John or Matthew), and more like an historian. The Greco-Roman histories of Luke’s day often contained such a preface. While there were no “modern” scientists in the day, Luke, as a physician, was examining things and giving the most accurate account possible of the life of Jesus. Luke also wrote the history of the early church which we call “The Acts of the Apostles” or shortened to the Book of “Acts” which was also written to “Theophilus” (Acts 1:1). In Luke’s mind, the historical nature of Acts was also the historical nature of his gospel- relying on eyewitnesses and careful investigation. This is in contrast to the Gnostic gospels that have Jesus flying off the roof, or marrying Mary Magdalene, or otherwise making up stories so Jesus appears to do and be more like we want him to do and be. We live in a day in which many are wondering what’s the difference between a false and true gospel, and how do we know which one to believe? Matthew, Mark, Luke and John bore the corroboration of the still living eyewitnesses in the church, including the apostles and their early disciples (like Clement of Rome, Ignatius of Antioch and Polycarp). The gospels were a narrative of Jesus’ life (in contrast to the Gospel of Thomas which only had sayings of Jesus), and were accepted by the Church in the east and the west of the Roman Empire. The word “canonical” means recognized or accepted, and these four gospels were the accepted and recognized gospels of the Church. By the time Luke wrote his gospel, some of the eyewitnesses had died, and there was concern that an authorized gospel be written before others died out. The point is, Luke writes an important, accurate, and corroborated narrative for us inspired by the Holy Spirit and that is used by the Holy Spirit today to convey the greatest story ever told of the greatest life that was ever lived.

Prayer: Thank you, Lord for the life you lived on this earth, and for Luke who recorded your earthly life so that we may be more like you, and know your salvation.

10/13 Jeremiah 23:5,6; Christ of David- Our Righteousness

(Folio museum of Condee Chantilly- David Imagins Christ Elevated Abobe Other Beings)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

10/13
Jeremiah 23:5.6
5 "The days are coming," declares the LORD, "when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch,
a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land. 6 In his days Judah will be saved and Israel will live in safety. This is the name by which he will be called: 'The LORD Our Righteous Savior.'"

Calvin abridged: It would not have been enough for the Prophet to say, “I have promised pastors who will faithfully perform their duty,” unless the only true pastor had been brought up. Often when prophets spoke of salvation and hope they turned their attention to the coming of the messiah which is spoken of here, so that we would think on the promises of God. Here there is no doubt that the Prophet is speaking of Christ’s coming. He was basically saying, “Though you are unworthy of a Deliverer a hundred times over, yet David’s memory shall always be completely with me, as he was perfect and faithful in keeping my covenant." Here he is not speaking of many kings- especially when he says “a king shall reign.” Most of David’s successors were not worthy of being called “righteous branches.” Christ, the true righteous branch, was not only David’s successor, but also the Son of God (Psalm 138, 2, Hebrews 1:5). “Reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land”- This means Christ would be endowed with the spirit of wisdom as well as of uprightness and fairness so that he would possess all the qualities of a good king. Christ is different from the earthly kings who administer justice only by giving people what is rightfully theirs. Christ is able to give people wisdom and knowledge, regenerates us by the Spirit, and restrains evil. “In his days Judah would be saved”- We interpret this as meaning that when Christ came and descended from the Father, the Church would be saved. How long will it be saved? As long as the King reigns, and there is no end to his kingdom. The true reigning of the king is not physical but spiritual, and thus forever. “Israel will live in safety (peace)”- refers to the tranquility and peace we have in Christ (Romans 5:1). “This is the name by which he will be called: The LORD Our Righteous Savior”- Here clearly the Prophet shows he is not just talking about other earthly kings, but of the Christ, our Savior. Christ is righteous as he is God, and the Son of David as he is man. He is called Jehovah (the Lord) because he is the only begotten Son of God of one and the same essence, glory, eternity and divinity with the Father. Salvation and righteousness can come only from God- eliminating sin and death; His humanity allows us to be friends with Him and have access to God by being united to Him. Christ is “our righteousness”- God has righteousness in himself, but apart from Christ his righteousness judges us. Christ came not to judge us, however, but to communicate to us his righteousness. If we desire to have God as our righteousness we must seek Christ, for God’s righteousness cannot be found except in him. Those who turn away from Christ, cannot find the righteousness of God (I Cor. 1:30).

Thought: Zedekiah meant “the Lord our righteousness” but king Zedekiah (the last king before the first temple was destroyed) did not live up to his name. However, there were many prophecies that speak of the coming messiah who will reign as a righteous king. By his righteousness, we are made better. Good rulers influence people for good. They may influence all the world distantly, but their own people they influence deeply. But Christ is an eternal ruler whose true goodness radiates to all the world, but is imputed to us who believe. Certainly the reign of Christ has done much to influence the world for good- eliminating cannibalism, cruelty, and much superstition and selfishness. Yet individuals who are believers testify of how much (more personally and deeply) Christ has made them into better people. In American culture we need to see more clearly that Christ is not just our Savior, but He is also our Lord and King. We are too quick to call Jesus our savior and God, but we do not let him rule in our lives.

Prayer: Lord, be our righteousness, our King. Thank you that your reign is forever.

10/12- Psalm 132:10-18; Holding onto the Promises

(King David)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.


10 For the sake of your servant David, do not reject your anointed one. 11 The LORD swore an oath to David, a sure oath that he will not revoke: "One of your own descendants I will place on your throne. 12 If your sons keep my covenant and the statutes I teach them, then their sons will sit on your throne for ever and ever." 13 For the LORD has chosen Zion, he has desired it for his dwelling, saying, 14 "This is my resting place for ever and ever; here I will sit enthroned, for I have desired it. 15 I will bless her with abundant provisions; her poor I will satisfy with food. 16 I will clothe her priests with salvation, and her faithful people will ever sing for joy. 17 "Here I will make a horn grow for David and set up a lamp for my anointed one. 18 I will clothe his enemies with shame, but his head will be adorned with a resplendent crown." (Psalm 132:10-18)

Calvin abridged: The prayer means that God in remembrance of his promise would show favor to the posterity of David. David was the foundation of this favor. The prayer was made ‘for David’s sake” because the covenant was made in his name. This was a prayer for the Church, and the Church is taught here that Christ (as Mediator) makes intercession for all his people. 11- “The Lord swore to David”- God makes a promise here in truth and does not go back from his word. What was promised was a successor to David from his own seed; This arrangement affected the good of the whole Church, and not David’s good alone. He people were encouraged by this sacred stability of the kingdom. A distinction is drawn between this heavenly ordained kingdom and worldly kingdoms that are obtained in pride and often violence. God promised (vs. 12) that he would have a descendant on the throne not for one age, but forever. The enforcing of this covenant did not depend solely on their good conduct. For the promise was given out of grace, and God sent his Son despite their disobedience. Paul says, “What is some did not have faith? Will their lack of faith nullify God’s faithfulness? Not at all!” (Rom. 3:3,4). The covenant itself was not conditional. But an accessory was added to the covenant, that God would bless them if they obeyed his commandments. When the Jews were forced into exile, it appeared the covenant lost effect, but this was an illusion. But the covenant was not fulfilled fully when Zerubbabel came back, or when other kings assumed the throne, but when Christ came. Ezekiel indicates this (21:26): “26 this is what the Sovereign LORD says: Take off the turban, remove the crown. It will not be as it was: The lowly will be exalted and the exalted will be brought low.” The people were taken into exile to show that while the covenant was eternal and inviolable, in that it held the promise of the Redeemer, yet the conduct of the Jews excluded them temporarily from the divine favor. The obedience, demanded by God, is part of the covenant, to teach us that we must not serve him by our own human standards and ideas, but we must confine ourselves to the prescription of his word.

Thought: The covenant of David symbolizes the way God works with us. The promise was always true, though at times it seems broken. The covenant and promise of God (for David to always have a king on the throne) was always in effect though many thought it was broken when their kingdom was taken away by the Babylonians (and later by the Romans). Many thought the line was clearly broken. But this promise also interacted with another promise that if the people of God reject God and do evil, God will punish them (or us) (Deuteronomy 28:22,25,26,32, especially 36, 49-57; 2 Chronicles 36:15-19). Teh promises work together not exclusive of each other. It seemed that there was no hope for the promise to be fulfilled, but God also promised to bring them back to the land- and He did. Christ who was of the line of David came and perfected the promise. We are also promised heaven if we believe. But on this earth, there are times it appears that the promise of heaven is too far off and the pains of earth seem to be greater than any future glory we may have. But we should never give up hope in the promises of God. Jesus our Redeemer, and the resurrected One, is a deposit guaranteeing our hope.

Prayer: Your promises, are true, O Lord. Help me to believe in them today even though the way seems bleak at the moment.

10-11 Staying in church

(St. Pierre from outside- where Calvn preached)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

10-11-09

24 Now I say to the rest of you in Thyatira, to you who do not hold to her teaching and have not learned Satan's so-called deep secrets, 'I will not impose any other burden on you, 25 except to hold on to what you have until I come.' (Rev. 2:24,25); 4 Yet you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their clothes. They will walk with me, dressed in white, for they are worthy. 5 Those who are victorious will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out their names from the book of life, but will acknowledge their names before my Father and his angels. (Rev. 3:4,5);


Calvin: I shall start, then, with the church, into whose bosom God is pleased to gather his children, not only that they may be nourished by her help and ministry as long as they are infants and children, but also that they may be guided by her motherly care until they mature and at last reach the goal of faith. “For what God has joined together, it is not lawful to put asunder” [Mark 10:9 p.], so that, for those to whom he is Father the church may also be Mother. And this was so not only under the law but also after Christ’s coming, as Paul testifies when he teaches that we are the children of the new and heavenly Jerusalem [Galatians 4:26]. (IV.1.1)

Thought: Why church? Barbara Brown Taylor wrote about “Leaving Church” and that is what many have chosen to do in our society today. The Presbyterians have gone from 6.2 to 2.1 (Maybe 2.5 if you add in the conservative denominations that broke off). The Episcopalians, Methodists, Lutherans all have experienced similar losses. Today even the Baptists and non-denominational folks are feeling the pinch. There is a feeling that church is not “right” for us anymore. But there is always a tension between on the one hand human pride that judges the church and doesn’t want to put up with others, the sinfulness of the church, and on the other hand the command to be a part of the Church and the true blessing of the Church. For Calvin, the Church is not just visible- not just the walls and steeples, or the denominations and institutions. But it is also frail human beings who believe, and seek to rub up against each other. Often we rub each other the wrong way- irritating one another. Yet, the church is a way to grow in human love. It is hard to love our brothers and sisters in Christ without being a part of the church. I have known some who have left church and have formed a group to just help others in service. But that group becomes the church to them. I have known some who have left denominations to make a better church, but soon those churches grow and form other churches and a denomination and new institution is formed. My point is that real Christians who want to serve Christ have a hard time getting away from church. Just as if you are serious about football, it is hard to not watch it or play it with others, so it is hard to not be followers of Christ with others. So, why not do what Paul says and seek not to divide or leave the church? Why not do what the book of Revelation says and “Hold on and stay”? The Spirit did not say to those who were in a church a vast immorality and bad doctrine to split. Some say that Calvin was in favor of church splits for purer doctrine, but that is not the case. Calvin was in favor of reforming the church, but was forced out after his sermon with Nicolas Cop and various edicts by the king of France. Calvin, throughout his life tried to unite the fledgling Protestant churches. He was somewhat successful with the Czeck (Hussite), Hungarian, Zwinglian churches, but not with the Lutheran churches. There is no way to have a perfect church, Calvinism reminds us of our own imperfections in practice as well as doctrine.


Prayer: Help us, Lord to adhere to your Church. Give us grace to be faithful in a faithless age; loyal in an age of rebellion.

10-10 Psalm 89:19-37 David and the Haters

[David the Shepherd boy]
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

19. Then thou spakest in vision to thy meek ones. The Psalmist now
declares at greater length why he said that the king, set over the chosen
people for the preservation of the public good, was given them from
heaven; namely, because he was not chosen by the suffrages of men, nor
usurped at his own hand the supreme power, nor insinuated himself into it
by corrupt arts, but was elected by God to be the instrument of
maintaining the public good, and performed the duties of his office under
the auspices and conduct of God. The design of the prophet, as we shall
shortly see more clearly, is to distinguish this Divinely-appointed king
from all other kings. Although what Paul teaches in <451301>Romans 13:1, is
true, “There is no power but of God;” yet there was a great difference
between David and all earthly kings who have acquired sovereign power
by worldly means. God had delivered the scepter to his servant David
immediately with his own hand, so to speak, and had seated him on the
royal throne by his own authority. The particle za, az, which properly
signifies then, is taken also for long since, or in old time. The meaning,
therefore, is, that whereas some are born kings, succeeding their fathers by
right of inheritance, and some are elevated to the royal dignity by election,
while others acquire it for themselves by violence and force of arms, God
was the founder of this kingdom, having chosen David to the throne by his
own voice. Farther, although he revealed his purpose to Samuel, yet as the
plural number is here used, implying, that the same oracle had been
delivered to others, we may certainly conclude that it had been
communicated to other prophets that they might be able, with one
126
consent, to bear testimony that David was created king by the Divine
appointment. And, indeed, as other distinguished and celebrated prophets
lived at that time, it is not very probable that a matter of so great
importance was concealed from them. But Samuel alone is named in this
business, because he was the publisher of the Divine oracle and the
minister of the royal anointing. As God in those days spake to his
prophets either by dreams or by visions, this last mode of revelation is
here mentioned.
There next follows the substance or amount of the Divine oracle, That
God had furnished with help the strong or mighty one whom he had
chosen to be the supreme head and governor of the kingdom. David is
called strong, not because naturally and in himself he excelled in strength,
(for, as is well known, he was of small stature, and despised among his
brethren, so that even Samuel passed him over with neglects) but because
God, after having chosen him, endued him with new strength, and other
distinguished qualities suitable for a king; even as in a parallel case, when
Christ chose his apostles, he not only honored them with the title, but at
the same time bestowed the gifts which were necessary for executing their
office. And at the present day he imparts to his ministers the same grace
of his Spirit. The strength of David, then, of which mention is here made,
was the effect of his election; for God, in creating him king, furnished him
at the same time with strength adequate for the preservation of the people.
This appears still more distinctly from the second clause, where this
invincible strength is traced to its source: I have exalted one chosen from
among the people. All the words are emphatic. When God declares that he
exalted him, it is to intimate the low and mean condition in which David
lived, unknown and obscure, before God stretched out his hand to him. To
the same effect is the expression which follows, from among the people.
The meaning is, that he was at that time unnoted, and belonged to the
lowest class of the people, and gave no indications of superior excellence,
being the least esteemed of his father’s children, in whose country cottage
he held the humble office of a herdsman. fc541 By the word chosen, God
calls us back to the consideration of his own free will, as if he forbade us
to seek for any other cause of David’s exaltation than his own good
pleasure.
127
20. I have found David my servant. The prophet confirms the same
proposition, That there was nothing of royalty in David, who owed all to
the sovereignty of God in preventing him by his grace. Such is the import
of the word found, as if God had said, When I took him to elevate him, this
proceeded entirely from my free goodness. The name servant, therefore,
does not denote any merit, but is to be referred to the divine call. It is as if
God had said, that he confirmed and ratified by his authority the sovereign
power of David; and if He approved it, its legitimacy is placed beyond all
doubt. The second clause of the verse affords an additional confirmation of
God’s free election: With my holy oil have I anointed him. This anointing,
which was not the fruit of David’s own policy, but which he obtained
contrary to all expectation, was the cause of his elevation to the estate of
royalty. God then having of himself, and according to his mere good
pleasure, anticipated David, that he might anoint him king by the hand of
Samuel, he justly declares that he found him. It is afterwards added, that he
will be the guardian and protector of this kingdom of which he was the
founder; for it is not his usual way to abandon his works after having
commenced them, but, on the contrary, to carry them forward by a
continued process of improvement to their completion.
22. The enemy shall not exact upon him. fc542 Here it is declared in express
terms, that although David may not be without enemies, the power of God
will be always ready to maintain and defend him, that he may not be
oppressed with unrighteous violence. It is accordingly affirmed, that David
will not be tributary to his enemies, as he who is vanquished in battle is
constrained to grant such conditions of peace as his conqueror may dictate,
however injurious to himself these may be. When his enemies are called
sons of iniquity, it is tacitly intimated, that this government will be so
exempt from tyranny and extortion, that whoever shall attempt to
overthrow it will be involved in the perpetration of wrong and wickedness.
The amount is, that David and his successors will be so secure and
strongly fortified by the divine protection, that it will be impossible for
their enemies to treat them as they would wish. In regard to the fact, that
God suffered this kingdom to be greatly afflicted, so that David’s
successors were constrained to pay a vast amount of tribute to foreign and
heathen kings, it is not at variance with this promise; for, although the
power of the kingdom was reduced, it was enough that the root still
128
remained, until Christ came, in whose hand the kingdom was at length
firmly established. As both the king and the people wickedly rejected this
singular blessing of God, the kingdom was often shaken through their own
default, afterwards impaired, and finally ruined. Yet God, to confirm his
oracle concerning the perpetuity of this kingdom, ceased not all along to
cherish and preserve some hope, by contending against their ingratitude.
Besides, when mention is made of David’s haters and oppressors, it is
intimated, that this throne will not be privileged with exemption from
annoyances and troubles, inasmuch as there will be always some who will
rise up in hostility against it, unless God set himself in opposition to
them.

10/9- Psalm 89:1-4 Believing the promise in tough times

(destruction of Jerusalem and temple)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

10/9- Psalm 89:1-4

I will sing of the LORD's great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations.
2 I will declare that your love stands firm forever, that you have established your faithfulness in heaven itself.
3 You said, "I have made a covenant with my chosen one, I have sworn to David my servant, 4 'I will establish your line forever and make your throne firm through all generations.'"

Calvin abridged: The Psalmist opens with praising God remembering the Divine covenant, to encourage the faithful to strengthen their faith against the powerful assaults of temptation. When we try to pray and some despairing thought comes up, we must resolve to break through it, lest our hearts fail. He sings amidst adversities so that he doesn’t give up on God’s lovingkindness towards his people. A person won’t praise God unless he is fully persuaded that God, even when he is angry, never lays aside his fatherly affection towards them. 3- “I have made a covenant..with David”- God gives to David two titles of distinction- “his chosen” and “his servant.” David is called “the chosen of God” because God of his own good pleasure, preferred him to Saul descendants and to his own brothers. The origin of the covenant is thus found in divine election. He is called “God’s servant” because of his royal dignity, having been given this office from God. The writer of the psalm applies this covenant to his own use and that of the people. God didn’t just enter this covenant for David alone, but also for the whole Church that would exist from one generation to another. “I will establish they throne forever” is partly to be understood of Solomon and partly to David’s successors. But the prophet knew that the eternal nature of the covenant could only be fulfilled in the eternal Christ. God conferred the sovereign power upon David and his descendants, that they might rule for the common good of all the rest, until the throne might truly be established by the advent of Christ.

Thoughts: The Psalmist was writing out of sadness. Verses 38-45 of Psalm 89 point out that they were in a period of rejection when the walls were broken down. The writer was resolutely reminding himself of God’s covenant promise even if it appeared that the promise was broken. There are times in our lives when we think there is no hope. There are times when we feel as if God has forsaken us because the world falls apart around us in part because of unfaithfulness. David’s descendants had forsaken God, his Sabbaths, and his holiness to go their own way. The punishment of exile was to punish them for forsaking Him (2 Chronicles 36:16-19; Jer. 44:3). Yet there was still hope of restoration (Jer. 33; Isa. 7,9, 40), and even protection of the faithful (like Jeremiah) in the midst of the catastrophe. Even when all around fall away, God still remembers his promises and love. In our day of recession, of despair, loss of faith, and loss of hope, we still should call to mind God’s promises, our hope, and that David’s son is still on the throne.

Prayer: Lord, your promises are faithful and true. Restore us again to you. Strengthen our faith even in times of sorrow.

10/8 Exodus 2:1-10

Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

10/8 Exodus 2:1-10
1 Now a man of the house of Levi married a Levite woman, 2 and she became pregnant and gave birth to a son. When she saw that he was a fine child, she hid him for three months. 3 But when she could hide him no longer, she got a papyrus basket for him and coated it with tar and pitch. Then she placed the child in it and put it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile. 4 His sister stood at a distance to see what would happen to him. 5 Then Pharaoh's daughter went down to the Nile to bathe, and her attendants were walking along the riverbank. She saw the basket among the reeds and sent her female slave to get it. 6 She opened it and saw the baby. He was crying, and she felt sorry for him. "This is one of the Hebrew babies," she said. 7 Then his sister asked Pharaoh's daughter, "Shall I go and get one of the Hebrew women to nurse the baby for you?" 8 "Yes, go," she answered. And the girl went and got the baby's mother. 9 Pharaoh's daughter said to her, "Take this baby and nurse him for me, and I will pay you." So the woman took the baby and nursed him. 10 When the child grew older, she took him to Pharaoh's daughter and he became her son. She named him Moses, [b] saying, "I drew him out of the water."

Calvin abridged: Aaron was three years old when Moses was born, but mention is made only of Moses; this is because then it was illegal for the Hebrew slaves to keep alive their male children. We see the terror that was afflicting the Israelites in that parents were willing to part with their own children for their survival. However, Moses’ parents’ timidity can’t easily be excused. His mother made the ark with great care, but she thought it was really to bury her child in it. Her efforts would have been ridiculous and without benefit if God had not surprisingly appeared from heaven as the author of their preservation. She despaired of God’s providence, but they didn’t live in peaceful times, and suffered terrible agonies as slaves. Hebrews 11:23 gives praise to the parents for their efforts, even though the father did little to help with the ark. But God, who generally “chooses the weak things of the world” strengthened this woman, and Moses’ sister as well. 2- “When she saw that he was a fine child”- God had adorned Moses with beauty in order to influence his parents to preserve him. Often when God sees his people slow to perform their duty, he encourages them by allurements, though his parents’ faith also prompted them to hide him. God ordinarily leads his people in the darkness like the blind, when they are wavering in ignorance and weakness of heart. So God sustained their faith, motivating them by the handsomeness of Moses. 4- “His sister stood at a distance”- It appears that Moses’ sister, Miriam, was put in place by her parents to watch for Moses’ demise more than to provide for the safety of their child. But in the darkness of sorrow and despair some sparks of faith still survive, and Moses’ mother did not abandon all care of him. But God miraculously stretched forth his hand for the child’s preservation. For there can be no question that his secret providence brought the king’s daughter to the river, and He gave her courage to have the baby nursed. He was controlling the whole matter. Scoffers would say that all of this happened by accident, because they are blind to the clear works of God, and think the human race is governed by mere chance. But we must faithfully hold that while God rules all people by his providence, he honors the elect with his peculiar care, and is watchful of their deliverance and support. It is absurd to think with Epicurus that the world is just a chance collision of atoms. Truly God drew out Moses, who was to be the future redeemer of his people, as from the grave, in order that he might show that the safety of the Church was like a creation out of nothing. And to top it all off, the mother not only got to nurse her son, but was paid for it. 10- “and the child grew”- The grief of the parents was renewed, when they had to give Moses up. It is doubtful Moses could stay pure in the corrupting Egyptian court. Yet Moses maintained his integrity and uprightness.

Thought: Moses is a type of Christ here. He was put in the “ark” as Christ was put in the grave. But he was resurrected by the princess of Egypt who lifted him up out of death to the highest place. As Moses was placed into the river to escape Pharaoh, so Christ went to Egypt to escape Herod. This also applies to us. God lifts us up when we are “sinking deep in sin far from the peaceful shore.” As Moses was drawn out of the water- so God draws us to Himself.

Prayer: Thank you for your providence and your salvation so evident in the story of Moses birth and the story of Christ’s birth.

10/6- 2 Samuel 7:1-16 Jesus descended from David

(Michelangelo's David closeup- Forence, Italy)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

10/7- 2 Samuel 7:1-16
1 After the king was settled in his palace and the LORD had given him rest from all his enemies around him, 2 he said to Nathan the prophet, "Here I am, living in a house of cedar, while the ark of God remains in a tent." 3 Nathan replied to the king, "Whatever you have in mind, go ahead and do it, for the LORD is with you." 4 But that night the word of the LORD came to Nathan, saying:
5 "Go and tell my servant David, 'This is what the LORD says: Are you the one to build me a house to dwell in? 6 I have not dwelt in a house from the day I brought the Israelites up out of Egypt to this day. I have been moving from place to place with a tent as my dwelling. 7 Wherever I have moved with all the Israelites, did I ever say to any of their rulers whom I commanded to shepherd my people Israel, "Why have you not built me a house of cedar?" '
8 "Now then, tell my servant David, 'This is what the LORD Almighty says: I took you from the pasture, from tending the flock, and appointed you ruler over my people Israel. 9 I have been with you wherever you have gone, and I have cut off all your enemies from before you. Now I will make your name great, like the names of the greatest men on earth. 10 And I will provide a place for my people Israel and will plant them so that they can have a home of their own and no longer be disturbed. Wicked people will not oppress them anymore, as they did at the beginning 11 and have done ever since the time I appointed leaders over my people Israel. I will also give you rest from all your enemies.
" 'The LORD declares to you that the LORD himself will establish a house for you: 12 When your days are over and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, who will come from your own body, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 14 I will be his father, and he will be my son. When he does wrong, I will punish him with a rod wielded by human beings, with floggings inflicted by human hands. 15 But my love will never be taken away from him, as I took it away from Saul, whom I removed from before you. 16 Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever.' "

Calvin (Inst. II.13.3): Our opponents both foolishly and wickedly entangle in allegories those testimonies wherein Christ is called the seed of Abraham and the fruit of David’s loins. For if the term “seed” had been allegorically intended, Paul
surely would not have remained silent about this when he affirmed, clearly and unfiguratively, that there are not many redeemers among the children of Abraham, but only one, Christ [Galatians 3:16]. Of the same stuff is their pretense that Christ was called “son of David” only because he had been promised and at last was revealed in his own time [Romans 1:3]. For when Paul named him “Son of David,” and then immediately added “according to the flesh,” he surely designates his human nature by this. Thus in the ninth chapter, after calling Christ “blessed God,” he asserts separately that he descended from the Jews “according to the flesh” [Romans 9:5]. Now, if he had not truly been begotten of the seed of David, what will be the point of this expression that he is “the fruit of her womb” [cf. Luke 1:42]? What is this promise, “From your loins will descend one who will remain upon your throne” [cf. Psalm 132:11 p.; also, 2 Samuel 7:12; Acts 2:30]? Now they sophistically disport themselves over Matthew’s version of the genealogy of Christ. Matthew does not list Mary’s ancestors, but Joseph’s [Matthew 1:16]. Still, because he is mentioning something well known at the time, he considers it sufficient to show that Joseph sprang from the seed of David, since it was clear enough that Mary came from the same family. Luke emphasizes this even more, teaching that the salvation provided by Christ is common to all mankind. For Christ, the Author of salvation, was begotten of Adam, the common father of us all [Luke 3:38]. I admit that one can gather from the genealogy that Christ was the son of David solely in so far as he was begotten of the virgin. But in order to disguise their error — to prove that Christ took his body out of nothing — the new Marcionites too haughtily contend that women are “without seed.” Thus they overturn the principles of nature…he differentiates this wonderful manner of generation from the common sort in stating that through her Christ was begotten of the seed of David. In the same way that Isaac was begotten of Abraham, Solomon of David, Joseph of Jacob, Christ is said to have been begotten of his mother. For the Evangelist so arranges the order of his words. Meaning to prove that Christ took his origin from David, he was satisfied with this one thing: Christ was begotten of Mary. From this it follows that he took it as generally acknowledged that Mary was related to Joseph.

Thought: The great promise to David was that he would always have a descendant on the throne. God would build him a house (lineage), because he sought to build God a house (temple). That is a promise for us, in that Christ is not only our prophet and priest, but also our king. Calvin believed that Joseph was descended from David and his genealogy is found in Matthew, while Calvin believe Luke held Mary’s genealogy. Traditional scholars point out that the last of the Hasmonean kings (Maccabean rulers- descended from David) ended during the time of Jesus. Josephus claimed Herod the Great had Hasmonean (Davidic) blood. Agrippa II was the last ruler to have Davidic blood and he was born 27 A.D. just a few years before Jesus’ death. The last brief independent rule of the Davidic line occurred about 40 years (a generation) before Jesus’ birth by Hyrcanus who was released from Roman tribute by Julius Caesar. Less than a generation after Jesus’ death the Romans tried to exterminate the Jews and destroyed the nation (70 A.D. under Agrippa II’s rule). The point is that the promise of a Davidic line was fulfilled in Jesus. His reign, as he put it, was not over a physical kingdom (as some of the zealots- possibly Judas wanted), but a spiritual kingdom that would last until eternity. Those who believe in him are a part of that invisible kingdom- the invisible church.

Prayer: Thank you for your reign over us, Lord. Thank you that you are on the eternal throne that no one can take away. You are the King of kings who fulfills the promises you make to your people.

10/6 Micah 5:1-4 Bethlehem and Christ

(the author at the entrance to the cave in Bethlehem- the traditional site of Jesus' birth- now made ornate by the church)

Micah 5:1-4
1Marshal your troops now, city of troops, for a siege is laid against us. They will strike Israel's ruler on the cheek with a rod. 2 "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times." 3 Therefore Israel will be abandoned until the time when she who is in labor gives birth and the rest of his brothers return to join the Israelites. 4 He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God. And they will live securely, for then his greatness will reach to the ends of the earth.

Calvin abridged: The Prophet was trying to encourage the people to have patience despite the upcoming siege. It is important to see that when the Prophets threaten us with wrath or denounce the punishment we deserve we either become apathetic or grow angry with God and complain. But when the Prophets comfort us, we indulge ourselves and become too secure. It is important that we have both an awareness of God’s wrath and his promises so that we may be ready to endure temporary problems and rely on Him. He calls Jerusalem a “city of troops” meaning that they choose the way of violence; they assemble (troop) together as a gang of thieves gather together for violence, so now troops will besiege them. The Lord was saying that they had been oppressive to others so now they would be oppressed in return (c.f Isa. 33:1). They governors and judges of Israel will be humbled by their enemies- suffering the greatest indignity of being struck on the cheek. But having said all this, the prophet gives them hope (vs. 2). But you, Bethlehem Ephratha, though you are small among the clans of Judah. While God was humbling the proud city and its rulers, he was also lifting up this simple, humble town of Bethlehem. Bethlehem Ephratha is distinguished from another Bethlehem of Zebulon. The word Ephrathah designates an abundance of fruit or provisions, and there David was born. “of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel”- this means that it was not God’s purpose to completely destroy his people- but he would restore them again after a time. The people would not have expected that King David would have come from such a small and simple town. David’s father was a shepherd, his family lived very simply, and David was the humblest in his family. God had surprised them before by bringing a king from humble beginnings, and he would do so again. “Whose origins are from of old, from ancient times”- means from eternity. The rise of a new ruler had long ago been determined by God and was not a sudden event. Some say this refers to the eternal existence of Christ, and I agree with them; but as some will not accept this, I prefer the simpler, immediate meaning: that Christ will not come unexpectedly from Bethlehem, but God had previously determined his coming.
Thought: God is not surprised. It was in God’s plan that the proud would be humbled and the humble would be lifted up. As God took David from the shepherd’s stalls and made him king, so God takes Jesus from the manger in the same town and makes him King of kings. Psalm 78:1 says, “from tending the sheep he brought him to be the shepherd of his people Jacob, of Israel his inheritance.” David himself said, “Who am I, O sovereign Lord, and what is my family, that you have brought me thus far? …and you have spoken to me about the future of my house” 2 Sam. 7:19,20). Bethlehem meant “house of bread.” It is most appropriate that the bread of life be born there. It is a great reminder for us that God is sovereign. He is the King of kings- and we do not need to panic, nor place our ultimate trust in what the rulers of our world are currently doing. There was so much that had to happen in order for Jesus to be born in Bethlehem. Thousands of miles away, Caesar Augustus, perhaps the greatest emperor of Rome, made a decree. Luke expresses an amazement at God’s leading Jesus’ family in this way so that he would be born in the place that would fulfill the prophecy. Even today you can go to Bethlehem and see what is very probably the place. It was marked by an early church. The place is a cave that was used for keeping animals (they didn’t have many wooden stables in that land- lots of rock and not many trees). Bethlehem is a real city- not a fable. The one whose origins are from of old, intersected life in the most humble way, lived a most humble life, and was lifted up to the highest place. His greatness has indeed reached to the ends of the earth. It is only in the last twenty years that we can say that the gospel has spread to every nation- and there are Christians in each nation of the world today.

Prayer: You are worthy of our praise, O Lord. You lift up the humble. So we humble ourselves before you, that you might lift us up.