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.