“…For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.”
Matthew 12:34 ESV
this is true. Lord help me to have You on my heart. “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.”
Matthew 12:30 ESV
if you’re not with God and for Him then you are against Him.
there’s a lot to take in. it was interesting to read in exodus and read about the law about slavery. i don’t think i’ve read that before. but it’s good to read it and see how it all went down in the OT.
Whew. Reading the laws in Exodus is hard, until you remember why Jesus had to come and was the only acceptable sacrifice to atone us for our sins. To me, the laws in the OT show the holiness of God, the sinfulness of man, and the nature of God. He is compassionate and seeks to protect us and bring justice to injustice. So grateful for Jesus dying the death we deserved and for the grace and freedom we experience in Him!
“whoever is not with me is against me” you cannot have part of yourself living for this world; you have to choose God and everlasting life or this world and darkness.
The verses on slavery definitely show that history does in fact repeat itself, even though all of the rules from the Old Testament were not followed during other times of slavery. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the light to guide us in the ways we should go.
God is so compassionate to His people. He cares about all the details of their lives. These rules are to protect His people, especially the weak. Today, he cares about each one of us and the details of our lives too. He loves us so much.
What does it mean in the exodus when God says everyone must give their firstborn son to him like their oxen and sheep? Surely he doesn’t mean a sacrifice, right? Can someone help me understand?
Basically God is asking for them to give their very best. So for example, in today’s terms, when tithing, God wants us to give our very best FIRST, not our leftovers or the amount we just didn’t use.
I think He just wants you to be willing to give up what you love to serve Him. Just like Abraham was willing to sacrifice Isaac. You have to love Jesus more than anything and be willing to put HIs will ahead of yours and be willing to give it all away even your child.
Looked more into the “Queen of the South” and she is thought to be the Queen of Sheba who visited Solomon and travelled very far to witness his wisdom and bring him many gifts. I hope that I can show the same admiration and respect for Christ that she had for Solomon!
So much comforts in these verses. So thankful for God’s daily grace and mercy.
28“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Father, give me Your eyes and Your heart for the things I encounter in my day. It’s about showing others – especially my family – Your love, not about getting everything done, fixing everything, and improving everyone. Let me love the way You love today, with mercy and compassion and truth.
I think the queen of Sheeba came to Solomon to get advice- I’m 90% through with this reading plan so I read that in one of the books (one of the kings or one of the samuels?) last year
Amy’s right. Biblical scholars aren’t 100% sure who it was, but they believe Sheba was in Yemen or Ethiopia, making it south of Israel. “…The queen of the South will rise up at judgement with this generation and condemn it, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and behold, something greater than Solomon is here.”
It’s a hard topic, as we immediately associate Hebrew slavery with American slavery which was so much more darker and inhumane than what Hebrew slavery (more like indentured servant) was. I think Katie’s post from a year ago addresses it well. (The one that starts with “Incase anyone is struggling with the slavery verse…” Check out her response!)
I am so glad Jesus came to earth to show us what following law should look like. He gets to the heart of God’s intentions for law, and reveals the love that motivated that law. Law should not be a place of fear, but a place of refuge. It’s scary to think of how society changes over time and has seemingly forgot God in its laws.
I love this contrast between the passage of Exodus where there are lists of rules, and then the beginning of Matthew where Jesus says just following the rules is not enough. What a clear picture that no matter how hard we try, we can’t be good enough–we have to rely on Jesus
This is what my study Bible says: ‘Matthew’s application of this parable suggests that the generation of people Jesus addresses refused His kingdom offer. Consequently, their rejection created a void that demons would fill. While Jesus may simply be using this parable as a metaphor for evil, he indicates that they would be worse off than prior to hearing His teaching. Here, Matthew may have the fall of Jerusalem (ad 70) in mind.’ I think perhaps the unoccupied house is a person who has not embraced the Gospel upon hearing it? He helps them, but if they do not acknowledge him then they are worse off than before … Maybe someone can add to that!
My understanding is that when we repent of our sins, it doesn’t mean that trials or temptations won’t come again. In fact, satan will bring temptations to lure us in again, which is so important to guard our hearts all the time.
Loved how God takes care of the unborn children by punishing the ones who cause their harm. The ethics and current laws behind abortion and harm to mom causing death to unborn children are horrible! As long as the baby has not breathed, whether inside womb or partially outside (eg all born except head) or even just born dead, there is no punishment. They claim it is “not a person” so how can it be murder. It’s so frustrating but a reason to pray for sure. And God is just, so all those babies will get justice in the end.
But that’s the same book where they’re totally fine with slavery as long as you pay 30 shekels if your ox bored a slave. I can’t figure out how to to make heads or tailsofthat.
Yes it it cultural, therefore these laws do now directly apply to us today but the principal behind them are important to notice. These are civil laws.
Here’s is some info on the three types of law in the bible. It was important for me to understand before I kept reading, helped me a lot.
The Old Testament Law identifies sin and teaches the need for salvation; God’s grace gives us that salvation through Jesus Christ.
There are over 600 Jewish Ceremonial Laws and Rituals listed in the Old Testament. These are the laws that Paul said no longer apply.
Ceremonial Law: This type of law related to Israel’s worship. (Lev 1:1-13) The laws pointed forward to Jesus Christ and were no longer necessary after Jesus’ death and resurrection. Though we are no longer bound to them, the principles behind the ceremonial laws, to worship and love God, still apply.
Civil Law: This law dictated Israel’s daily living (Deut 24:10-11); but modern society and culture are so radically different that some of these guidelines cannot be followed specifically. The principles behind the commands are to guide our conduct.
Moral Law: The moral laws are direct commands of God. A good example are the Ten Commandments (Ex 20:1-17). The moral laws reveal the nature and will of God, and still apply to us today. We do not obey this moral law as a way to obtain salvation, but to live in ways pleasing to God. (segments from, “Life Application Study Bible”)
The Old Testament Law is where God reveals His nature, His will/lifestyle for humanity, His moral laws, and guidelines for living. But we cannot go to Heaven by keeping that Law; we must be born again and trust in Jesus.
Read this before learning about the old laws. It is very important to know the different categories…my small group leader helped me understand this
The Old Testament Law identifies sin and teaches the need for salvation; God’s grace gives us that salvation through Jesus Christ.
There are over 600 Jewish Ceremonial Laws and Rituals listed in the Old Testament. These are the laws that Paul said no longer apply.
Ceremonial Law: This type of law related to Israel’s worship. (Lev 1:1-13) The laws pointed forward to Jesus Christ and were no longer necessary after Jesus’ death and resurrection. Though we are no longer bound to them, the principles behind the ceremonial laws, to worship and love God, still apply.
Civil Law: This law dictated Israel’s daily living (Deut 24:10-11); but modern society and culture are so radically different that some of these guidelines cannot be followed specifically. The principles behind the commands are to guide our conduct.
Moral Law: The moral laws are direct commands of God. A good example are the Ten Commandments (Ex 20:1-17). The moral laws reveal the nature and will of God, and still apply to us today. We do not obey this moral law as a way to obtain salvation, but to live in ways pleasing to God. (segments from, “Life Application Study Bible”)
The Old Testament Law is where God reveals His nature, His will/lifestyle for humanity, His moral laws, and guidelines for living. But we cannot go to Heaven by keeping that Law; we must be born again and trust in Jesus.
I should clarify. If women are equal to men, why is God Himself speaking about the selling of a woman to a man? (I know they were not equal then, but do we believe that God made us equal. I do, but this verse contradicts. Sure God uses women in the bible but why did he Himself make this law? If he created us equal, shouldn’t he have dismissed this sort of idea instead o reinforcing it?) is this making sense to anyone?
I think the reason that I’ve heard before, & I think as mentioned above somewhere, is that this is an upgrading from the rules of the land at the moment. these rules give women a way out if things are not being fair to them.
I’ve heard that too! I’ve also heard it said that the Israelites before the Mosaic law, were so lawless and fallen that the fulfilled and perfect message that Jesus preached would have been too much for them.
Your comment reminds me that God meets us where we are at. I used to wonder how a God who says ‘an eye for an eye’ in the OT and then changes it to ‘turn the other cheek’ in the NT could be the same, unchanging God. But now I realize that God truly is the same yesterday, today and forever – and that those differences in the OT and NT are just because he teaches us gradually, helping us on from the point we are at, not because his thoughts or character has ever changed. He is so incredibly good, gracious and patient with us!
Incase anyone else is struggling with the slavery verses here is how one commentary explains it: “we should first note that “slavery” is not the same as American slavery. Most people ran small family businesses and their slaves were more like simple workers or employees in the Haines who lives at the masters place. They were basically contract workers. Further, other variables made this situation different from American slavery. During the time of Moses, it was voluntary (people hired themselves into service of others, often because of debt). They worked hard in exchange for room, board, and an honest wage. Involuntary slavery was forbidden in this very section of scripture (see 21:16). This type of service was also temporary….” This is from Christ Centered Exposition by Tony Merida Edited by David Platt
Father, thank you for the precious heart of Emerson. Cover her with your full armor as she waits and trusts in you. Unveil the eyes of the lost person so that she too can taste and see that the Lord is good. In Jesus name. Emerson, be encouraged with Isaiah 26:3 He keeps in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Him: because he trusts in Him.
Lord, please put your full armor on Emerson today & be her strength as she goes to school & shines your light to those around her. In Jesus’ name, Amen
If you guys could all pray for me please. I am going through tough things at school. I am ready to fight this battle with prayer and clothe myself with the armpit of God. Please just pray for me and for the person who is giving me trouble because she doesn’t know the LORD but I so dearly want to walk in to heaven with her and her family one day.
Praying right now. Give Emerson the words to say–or not to say, LordGod. Clothe her with truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation, which is Your word. Take away the words that are not necessary. Fill her with your Spirit and its fruit–love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Funny that it auto corrects to armpit, makes me think about God wrapping His loving arms around you… Kind of under His wing. So I guess then you would be covered by God’s armpit! ❤️about
1 “Whoever steals an ox or a sheep and slaughters it or sells it must pay back five head of cattle for the ox and four sheep for the sheep. –> I love how the Lord restores is for the things we have lost. The injured has now become a gainer because of Him
Loved seeing these OT chapters put next to Mathew 12. Seeing all the laws of the OT, knowing I could never live up to the standards of His law and seeing Jesus come in and intercede on our behalf. He came in and fulfilled every law for us. Thank you God for your grace!
God cares about human life. Male & female. Born & unborn. He values the life of an unborn child just as much as He values the life of a grown man. The same penalty applies for injury & death.
I always assumed an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth was as literal as it sounded. After reading the text through again this time, I am seeing it a bit more clearly. If a master hits their slave and damages them enough that it causes the loss of an eye/eyesight or damages ten enough that it results in a tooth/teeth to fall out, then they must pay them back with another eye or another tooth; the new eye and tooth are figurative here and are actually equal to being set free to make up for the loss they suffered at the hand of their master.
Kristin, I heard a more in debt message on this recently. The first part is the aspect of the Trinity. Tri means three & unity means one, thus creating the term Trinity. We are told that God is three persons, sharing the same essence of deity. I saw a cool math calculation example, that is, the Trinity is 1x1x1=1, and not 1+1+1=3. It is mind boggling but hope this helps a bit. As far as the actual verse, it is referring to an actual awareness of God, the Son and the Spirit, believing in it, yet changing ones mind, and in-spite of the faith clarity, the person is defiant, ignores it and bluntly choses to deny the power and revelation of the Holy Spirit. Once the Holy Spirit reveals God to us, & His Son, denying its power and revelation directly or bluntly is the “unpardonable sin”. The closest example I can think of (and not necessarily the best) it is like having a child, but denying the birth of the child, or its existence… I can tell people God exists, they may believe it or not, but I can never deny this internal, revealed, truth… personally doing so, would go against everything inside me! Just some personal thoughts. Hope this helps a bit.
In Matthew 12:32 it states of man speaks agains the son of God he will be forgiven, if he speaks agains the Holy Spirit he will not be forgiven. How is this so if the father, son and Holy Spirit are one?
That’s a great question. I think it’s intended to reflect Jesus’s purpose of being the ultimate sacrifice. He’s kind of saying, “hurt me and I will still forgive you”, but do not lose sight of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you. I also kind of take it as an invitation for authenticity. If you’re mad at God, tell him. But don’t deny his righteousness and never give up your salvation.
So does anyone have any insight on the laws in the Exodus passage? I find those are often misquoted and misused by non-Christians to demonstrate hatred in the Bible (ie slavery, eye for an eye). I know that it is part if the culture at the time but how do we reconcile that with non-Christians?
I think the hardest part of your question is explaining to non Christians that the Truth we now know is Christ and he came so that we would not have to abide by these laws, but enter on Faith alone. I don’t think it is meant to be reconciled, but rather it is meant to highlight the enormity that the gift of grace is. We would never be able to uphold the standards of the Old Testament. My guess is that the non-Christians that use these passages out of context have run into Christians that are also using these passages out of context as well. Most misunderstandings of the Bible come from our need to make the Bible human when it is, in fact, not human and will not always meet human understanding. When we have on the blinders of the world, we will twist and distort any words to fit a cause. I think people forget that the God we serve is still an all powerful God and he is also a vengeful God. That is especially shown in the Old Testament. I like to believe it is merely to show the gravity of our fallen world and our absolute need for grace.
But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned. Mt 12:36-37
Oh that we may be quick to listen and slow to speak!
So I have to admit that reading today’s Exodus passage was hard cuz all the laws are not very stimulating reading material. However, it was interesting having it paired with the passage from Matthew where we see Jesus showing the people that it’s not about the laws but your heart.
That verse stood out to me also. I don’t want to waste my time here with “empty” words.( Whatever is pure. Whatever is lovely. Whatever is honorable think on these things. )
For out of the mouth the heart speaks. Sometimes it’s so hard to acknowledge and accept that. When live in a world of thoughts and opinions. Where freedom of speech is granted to us all. How do we get our hearts in a place of peace?
That was the verse that stood out to me this morning as well. One thing I thought about was what my pastor always says, “You give out of your overflow.” What are we allowing to fill us? Because that is what will come out. We will be poured out dry in ministry if we aren’t allowing the Lord to continually fill us to overflowing with His spirit. We have to be careful what we allow into our hearts and minds because we are the bride of Christ, called to purity.
It’s really hard reading about slavery in the Bible. I just don’t understand how a slave can be regarded as property. One of those things I’ll have to ask the Lord.
I agree…there are a few things in the OT that I have to reconcile by knowing it was part of the culture at that time, and there are many things we just don’t know.
That was so hard for me to read too! One thing that helped me a little was that a teacher who is steeped in Old Testament knowledge said that people were slaves to someone if they owed them money and couldn’t pay. By the time they had paid their master back they no longer needed to be his slave and could go free. But yes like you said the fact that it says property is troubling!
I looked this up in my Matthew Henry Commentary cuz it is a hard passage to read. However, the slavery God is talking about here is totally different than the way we view slavery in our culture in America. These people were slaves/servants due to poverty or crime and were supposed to be released after 7 years unless they wanted to continue to be a servant.
A professor of mine in seminary explained that things like slavery were not God’s will even back then. God kind of had to meet people where they were at and move humanity, over time, toward being more & more in line with His actual will. They could not have handled/fathomed God’s true will on the subject t the time. It’s like soil that has to be cultivated over time. It took thousands of years for the world to be ready for Jesus to arrive, and even then, he was STILL ahead of his time. God was bringing about change in the way people treat others – it seems like small, insufficient change to us reading this stuff thousands of years forward in the future, but back then, these laws were a radical paradigm shift in how people navigated relational issues.
I don’t believe that. That sounds like a very pathetic God to believe in. the idea that mankind “wasn’t ready” yet He can harden hearts? He can change hearts?! To believe that God had to “meet us where we were in our flawed logic” is to believe very weak God.
I don’t read it like that. When we speak of God having to “meet us where we are” it’s because we humans cannot fathom God’s goodness and will. Yes. He can change hearts. But, I think when the oc said that they weren’t ready for change, it was because of ingrained cultural and societal beliefs about the customs they had. It doesn’t turn God into a weak entity, it just proves humanities weakness and inherent sinfulness.
When Jesus healed on the Sabbath, so many were so concerned with right and wrong that they didn’t even care about the miracle or the restored lives before them.
I know, right? they were so blinded by the law that they didn’t see the miracle, and they even went as far as to ask for a sign! I want to say, “Come on, people!” but I know I’ve been guilty of the same. I won’t bother to listen to someone because what they look like, or what they’re wearing, or who they hang out with doesn’t meet my standards. I’ll miss what God is doing because all I see is the tats and piercings or something like that.
Elisha, it’s said that the men (Pharisees/Sadducees, etc) would stand up amongst the crowd to ask their question(s)…can you imagine the embarrassment once Jesus corrected them…?! Oh my!!!
33 “Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit.”
I love this. We are recognized and known by what we produce or what we give off. When we live our lives in a holy way as we should, we can be recognized as children of God! It also made me think of my children…I strive to be “good” so that my children grow up and are respectful and healthy.
I think it is really hard because we live in such an age of freedom and rights. I don’t really have any answers for myself to the questions I have had but it is hard for me to read that and feel that women were/are valued as highly as men :/
Before reading this today, I saw an article about a famous person championing women’s equality of pay in their Oscar speech. My heart thought, “So Jesus, what do you think about this?” And I heard back, “Job’s daughters had an equal inheritance!”
I think that when Jesus came He changed that. In the OT I don’t think that women were as highly valued as men, but if you read all the stories, even in the OT God used women in countless ways to brig about His plan. And if look at the story of the woman at the well in John 4, Jesus wasn’t “supposed” to be talking to her, not only because she was a Samaritan, but because she was a woman, it was looked down upon for people to see him there just talking with her. But Jesus didn’t care, he cared about her soul, she was important to Him. Women are just as important in the eyes of the Lord as men are. Yes, we have different roles, but that doesn’t make one gender more important.
Claudia, I think it goes back to curse in Genesis 3:16…Eve, lost her positioning just as Adam…same as Esau lost his birthright for Jacob’s food. BUT GOD…hallelujah…redeemed us!!! Thank You Jesus!!!
I always love reading the insight and bits of added information you ladies post, but I’m especially interested to hear what others think of today’s exodus reading!
I love Exodus 23:30- Little by little I will drive them out from before you, until you have increased, and you inherit the land. ** I always want everything overnight. Let me wake up tomorrow to fresh blessings and brand new starts and dreams come true. But the Lord doesn’t work that way. For He knows “lest the land become desolate…the beasts of the field too numerous for you”. His slow unfolding plans are for our benefit. So that we are not overtaken but so that we can slowly adjust to the newness of it all.
God produces qualities in us.
“…For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.”
Matthew 12:34 ESV
this is true. Lord help me to have You on my heart. “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.”
Matthew 12:30 ESV
if you’re not with God and for Him then you are against Him.
there’s a lot to take in. it was interesting to read in exodus and read about the law about slavery. i don’t think i’ve read that before. but it’s good to read it and see how it all went down in the OT.
It is so interesting and convicting to see Jesus make the comparison to Jonah in this passage! Definitely something good to ponder!
Jesus brought the New Ordinance.
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wow that was crazy
Whew. Reading the laws in Exodus is hard, until you remember why Jesus had to come and was the only acceptable sacrifice to atone us for our sins. To me, the laws in the OT show the holiness of God, the sinfulness of man, and the nature of God. He is compassionate and seeks to protect us and bring justice to injustice. So grateful for Jesus dying the death we deserved and for the grace and freedom we experience in Him!
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He who does my will is my brother and sister
36 I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak,
Ouch – what a good reminder of our powerful my words are and that I must be mindful of them.
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It repeats itself because human nature doesn’t change and is inherently, evil. No human is good without Christ.
Amen!
“whoever is not with me is against me” you cannot have part of yourself living for this world; you have to choose God and everlasting life or this world and darkness.
The verses on slavery definitely show that history does in fact repeat itself, even though all of the rules from the Old Testament were not followed during other times of slavery. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the light to guide us in the ways we should go.
God is so compassionate to His people. He cares about all the details of their lives. These rules are to protect His people, especially the weak. Today, he cares about each one of us and the details of our lives too. He loves us so much.
A great deal to ponder over today!
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What does it mean in the exodus when God says everyone must give their firstborn son to him like their oxen and sheep? Surely he doesn’t mean a sacrifice, right? Can someone help me understand?
Basically God is asking for them to give their very best. So for example, in today’s terms, when tithing, God wants us to give our very best FIRST, not our leftovers or the amount we just didn’t use.
I believe this refers to the dedication of the firstborn to God not a physical sacrifice.
I think He just wants you to be willing to give up what you love to serve Him. Just like Abraham was willing to sacrifice Isaac. You have to love Jesus more than anything and be willing to put HIs will ahead of yours and be willing to give it all away even your child.
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Woooow, some interesting and convicting content today.
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The mouth speaks what the heart is full of
The Lord is compassionate and just!
Looked more into the “Queen of the South” and she is thought to be the Queen of Sheba who visited Solomon and travelled very far to witness his wisdom and bring him many gifts. I hope that I can show the same admiration and respect for Christ that she had for Solomon!
Thank you.
You’re okay!! You’re doing it and that’s the important part
So many rules and therefore we need Jesus!
30Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters. -ellie
Leaning on God for mercy and rest, but also for guidance each day.
So much comforts in these verses. So thankful for God’s daily grace and mercy.
28“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Father, give me Your eyes and Your heart for the things I encounter in my day. It’s about showing others – especially my family – Your love, not about getting everything done, fixing everything, and improving everyone. Let me love the way You love today, with mercy and compassion and truth.
What in the world does Jesus mean when he says “The Queen of the South” in Matthew?
I think the queen of Sheeba came to Solomon to get advice- I’m 90% through with this reading plan so I read that in one of the books (one of the kings or one of the samuels?) last year
Amy’s right. Biblical scholars aren’t 100% sure who it was, but they believe Sheba was in Yemen or Ethiopia, making it south of Israel. “…The queen of the South will rise up at judgement with this generation and condemn it, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and behold, something greater than Solomon is here.”
I’m really struggling with why God allowed slaves and allowed them to be treated in such a way..
It’s a hard topic, as we immediately associate Hebrew slavery with American slavery which was so much more darker and inhumane than what Hebrew slavery (more like indentured servant) was. I think Katie’s post from a year ago addresses it well. (The one that starts with “Incase anyone is struggling with the slavery verse…” Check out her response!)
It’s hard to imagine but the key is cultural context. God allows things that He hates, but this doesn’t equal condoning them.
I am so glad Jesus came to earth to show us what following law should look like. He gets to the heart of God’s intentions for law, and reveals the love that motivated that law. Law should not be a place of fear, but a place of refuge. It’s scary to think of how society changes over time and has seemingly forgot God in its laws.
I love that Jesus calls us his friend and sister! What an awesome, loving God we serve!
I love this contrast between the passage of Exodus where there are lists of rules, and then the beginning of Matthew where Jesus says just following the rules is not enough. What a clear picture that no matter how hard we try, we can’t be good enough–we have to rely on Jesus
Thank You guys so much. That was heart warming.
Can someone explain Matthew 12:43-45? I don’t think I fully understand this part
Me either
This is what my study Bible says: ‘Matthew’s application of this parable suggests that the generation of people Jesus addresses refused His kingdom offer. Consequently, their rejection created a void that demons would fill. While Jesus may simply be using this parable as a metaphor for evil, he indicates that they would be worse off than prior to hearing His teaching. Here, Matthew may have the fall of Jerusalem (ad 70) in mind.’ I think perhaps the unoccupied house is a person who has not embraced the Gospel upon hearing it? He helps them, but if they do not acknowledge him then they are worse off than before … Maybe someone can add to that!
My understanding is that when we repent of our sins, it doesn’t mean that trials or temptations won’t come again. In fact, satan will bring temptations to lure us in again, which is so important to guard our hearts all the time.
Loved how God takes care of the unborn children by punishing the ones who cause their harm. The ethics and current laws behind abortion and harm to mom causing death to unborn children are horrible! As long as the baby has not breathed, whether inside womb or partially outside (eg all born except head) or even just born dead, there is no punishment. They claim it is “not a person” so how can it be murder. It’s so frustrating but a reason to pray for sure. And God is just, so all those babies will get justice in the end.
But that’s the same book where they’re totally fine with slavery as long as you pay 30 shekels if your ox bored a slave. I can’t figure out how to to make heads or tailsofthat.
No kidding, me neither! I wonder if that is more of a cultural thing?
Yes it it cultural, therefore these laws do now directly apply to us today but the principal behind them are important to notice. These are civil laws.
Here’s is some info on the three types of law in the bible. It was important for me to understand before I kept reading, helped me a lot.
The Old Testament Law identifies sin and teaches the need for salvation; God’s grace gives us that salvation through Jesus Christ.
There are over 600 Jewish Ceremonial Laws and Rituals listed in the Old Testament. These are the laws that Paul said no longer apply.
Ceremonial Law: This type of law related to Israel’s worship. (Lev 1:1-13) The laws pointed forward to Jesus Christ and were no longer necessary after Jesus’ death and resurrection. Though we are no longer bound to them, the principles behind the ceremonial laws, to worship and love God, still apply.
Civil Law: This law dictated Israel’s daily living (Deut 24:10-11); but modern society and culture are so radically different that some of these guidelines cannot be followed specifically. The principles behind the commands are to guide our conduct.
Moral Law: The moral laws are direct commands of God. A good example are the Ten Commandments (Ex 20:1-17). The moral laws reveal the nature and will of God, and still apply to us today. We do not obey this moral law as a way to obtain salvation, but to live in ways pleasing to God. (segments from, “Life Application Study Bible”)
The Old Testament Law is where God reveals His nature, His will/lifestyle for humanity, His moral laws, and guidelines for living. But we cannot go to Heaven by keeping that Law; we must be born again and trust in Jesus.
Read this before learning about the old laws. It is very important to know the different categories…my small group leader helped me understand this
The Old Testament Law identifies sin and teaches the need for salvation; God’s grace gives us that salvation through Jesus Christ.
There are over 600 Jewish Ceremonial Laws and Rituals listed in the Old Testament. These are the laws that Paul said no longer apply.
Ceremonial Law: This type of law related to Israel’s worship. (Lev 1:1-13) The laws pointed forward to Jesus Christ and were no longer necessary after Jesus’ death and resurrection. Though we are no longer bound to them, the principles behind the ceremonial laws, to worship and love God, still apply.
Civil Law: This law dictated Israel’s daily living (Deut 24:10-11); but modern society and culture are so radically different that some of these guidelines cannot be followed specifically. The principles behind the commands are to guide our conduct.
Moral Law: The moral laws are direct commands of God. A good example are the Ten Commandments (Ex 20:1-17). The moral laws reveal the nature and will of God, and still apply to us today. We do not obey this moral law as a way to obtain salvation, but to live in ways pleasing to God. (segments from, “Life Application Study Bible”)
The Old Testament Law is where God reveals His nature, His will/lifestyle for humanity, His moral laws, and guidelines for living. But we cannot go to Heaven by keeping that Law; we must be born again and trust in Jesus.
Any thoughts on 21:7-14?
I should clarify. If women are equal to men, why is God Himself speaking about the selling of a woman to a man? (I know they were not equal then, but do we believe that God made us equal. I do, but this verse contradicts. Sure God uses women in the bible but why did he Himself make this law? If he created us equal, shouldn’t he have dismissed this sort of idea instead o reinforcing it?) is this making sense to anyone?
I think the reason that I’ve heard before, & I think as mentioned above somewhere, is that this is an upgrading from the rules of the land at the moment. these rules give women a way out if things are not being fair to them.
That’s interesting! Thank you!!
I’ve heard that too! I’ve also heard it said that the Israelites before the Mosaic law, were so lawless and fallen that the fulfilled and perfect message that Jesus preached would have been too much for them.
Your comment reminds me that God meets us where we are at. I used to wonder how a God who says ‘an eye for an eye’ in the OT and then changes it to ‘turn the other cheek’ in the NT could be the same, unchanging God. But now I realize that God truly is the same yesterday, today and forever – and that those differences in the OT and NT are just because he teaches us gradually, helping us on from the point we are at, not because his thoughts or character has ever changed. He is so incredibly good, gracious and patient with us!
thank you for your addition.
Incase anyone else is struggling with the slavery verses here is how one commentary explains it: “we should first note that “slavery” is not the same as American slavery. Most people ran small family businesses and their slaves were more like simple workers or employees in the Haines who lives at the masters place. They were basically contract workers. Further, other variables made this situation different from American slavery. During the time of Moses, it was voluntary (people hired themselves into service of others, often because of debt). They worked hard in exchange for room, board, and an honest wage. Involuntary slavery was forbidden in this very section of scripture (see 21:16). This type of service was also temporary….” This is from Christ Centered Exposition by Tony Merida Edited by David Platt
Father, thank you for the precious heart of Emerson. Cover her with your full armor as she waits and trusts in you. Unveil the eyes of the lost person so that she too can taste and see that the Lord is good. In Jesus name. Emerson, be encouraged with Isaiah 26:3 He keeps in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Him: because he trusts in Him.
Emerson I pray you allow the spirit to lead you. May you see God forging you through this experience for his glory so that you maybe a lught.
Light not lught
Lord, please put your full armor on Emerson today & be her strength as she goes to school & shines your light to those around her. In Jesus’ name, Amen
So sorry about the armpit thing. Auto correct can get annoying. I mean the armor of God. hhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
If you guys could all pray for me please. I am going through tough things at school. I am ready to fight this battle with prayer and clothe myself with the armpit of God. Please just pray for me and for the person who is giving me trouble because she doesn’t know the LORD but I so dearly want to walk in to heaven with her and her family one day.
Praying right now. Give Emerson the words to say–or not to say, LordGod. Clothe her with truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation, which is Your word. Take away the words that are not necessary. Fill her with your Spirit and its fruit–love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Funny that it auto corrects to armpit, makes me think about God wrapping His loving arms around you… Kind of under His wing. So I guess then you would be covered by God’s armpit! ❤️about
1 “Whoever steals an ox or a sheep and slaughters it or sells it must pay back five head of cattle for the ox and four sheep for the sheep. –> I love how the Lord restores is for the things we have lost. The injured has now become a gainer because of Him
So grateful for the conversation here that helps answer my questions w/o even having to ask. ☺️
amazing words
Loved seeing these OT chapters put next to Mathew 12. Seeing all the laws of the OT, knowing I could never live up to the standards of His law and seeing Jesus come in and intercede on our behalf. He came in and fulfilled every law for us. Thank you God for your grace!
I had this reaction too Amanda! So very grateful!
Also we clearly see, “the wages of sin is death”. How many things in these chapters carry the death penalty! How different from now
God cares about human life. Male & female. Born & unborn. He values the life of an unborn child just as much as He values the life of a grown man. The same penalty applies for injury & death.
I always assumed an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth was as literal as it sounded. After reading the text through again this time, I am seeing it a bit more clearly. If a master hits their slave and damages them enough that it causes the loss of an eye/eyesight or damages ten enough that it results in a tooth/teeth to fall out, then they must pay them back with another eye or another tooth; the new eye and tooth are figurative here and are actually equal to being set free to make up for the loss they suffered at the hand of their master.
Kristin, I heard a more in debt message on this recently. The first part is the aspect of the Trinity. Tri means three & unity means one, thus creating the term Trinity. We are told that God is three persons, sharing the same essence of deity. I saw a cool math calculation example, that is, the Trinity is 1x1x1=1, and not 1+1+1=3. It is mind boggling but hope this helps a bit. As far as the actual verse, it is referring to an actual awareness of God, the Son and the Spirit, believing in it, yet changing ones mind, and in-spite of the faith clarity, the person is defiant, ignores it and bluntly choses to deny the power and revelation of the Holy Spirit. Once the Holy Spirit reveals God to us, & His Son, denying its power and revelation directly or bluntly is the “unpardonable sin”. The closest example I can think of (and not necessarily the best) it is like having a child, but denying the birth of the child, or its existence… I can tell people God exists, they may believe it or not, but I can never deny this internal, revealed, truth… personally doing so, would go against everything inside me! Just some personal thoughts. Hope this helps a bit.
In Matthew 12:32 it states of man speaks agains the son of God he will be forgiven, if he speaks agains the Holy Spirit he will not be forgiven. How is this so if the father, son and Holy Spirit are one?
That’s a great question. I think it’s intended to reflect Jesus’s purpose of being the ultimate sacrifice. He’s kind of saying, “hurt me and I will still forgive you”, but do not lose sight of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you. I also kind of take it as an invitation for authenticity. If you’re mad at God, tell him. But don’t deny his righteousness and never give up your salvation.
So does anyone have any insight on the laws in the Exodus passage? I find those are often misquoted and misused by non-Christians to demonstrate hatred in the Bible (ie slavery, eye for an eye). I know that it is part if the culture at the time but how do we reconcile that with non-Christians?
I think the hardest part of your question is explaining to non Christians that the Truth we now know is Christ and he came so that we would not have to abide by these laws, but enter on Faith alone. I don’t think it is meant to be reconciled, but rather it is meant to highlight the enormity that the gift of grace is. We would never be able to uphold the standards of the Old Testament. My guess is that the non-Christians that use these passages out of context have run into Christians that are also using these passages out of context as well. Most misunderstandings of the Bible come from our need to make the Bible human when it is, in fact, not human and will not always meet human understanding. When we have on the blinders of the world, we will twist and distort any words to fit a cause. I think people forget that the God we serve is still an all powerful God and he is also a vengeful God. That is especially shown in the Old Testament. I like to believe it is merely to show the gravity of our fallen world and our absolute need for grace.
Many wise words. Much to ponder on. Thank you for sharing & adding your great insight!
Great explanation!
Thank you for sharing your perspective! I wrote some of your words down so as to be able to go back to them later. Good stuff!
Restitution must be made for sin. How the law creates a longing for Christ!!
But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned. Mt 12:36-37
Oh that we may be quick to listen and slow to speak!
So I have to admit that reading today’s Exodus passage was hard cuz all the laws are not very stimulating reading material. However, it was interesting having it paired with the passage from Matthew where we see Jesus showing the people that it’s not about the laws but your heart.
I was thankful for that too, Pam!
Beautiful Words from Isaiah 42:3 come true here- a verse that means much to me. Bruised reeds. He will not break us beyond. Matt 12:20.
That verse stood out to me also. I don’t want to waste my time here with “empty” words.( Whatever is pure. Whatever is lovely. Whatever is honorable think on these things. )
For out of the mouth the heart speaks. Sometimes it’s so hard to acknowledge and accept that. When live in a world of thoughts and opinions. Where freedom of speech is granted to us all. How do we get our hearts in a place of peace?
This verse stood out to me as well..reminds me so much of the book of James!
That was the verse that stood out to me this morning as well. One thing I thought about was what my pastor always says, “You give out of your overflow.” What are we allowing to fill us? Because that is what will come out. We will be poured out dry in ministry if we aren’t allowing the Lord to continually fill us to overflowing with His spirit. We have to be careful what we allow into our hearts and minds because we are the bride of Christ, called to purity.
It’s really hard reading about slavery in the Bible. I just don’t understand how a slave can be regarded as property. One of those things I’ll have to ask the Lord.
I agree…there are a few things in the OT that I have to reconcile by knowing it was part of the culture at that time, and there are many things we just don’t know.
That was so hard for me to read too! One thing that helped me a little was that a teacher who is steeped in Old Testament knowledge said that people were slaves to someone if they owed them money and couldn’t pay. By the time they had paid their master back they no longer needed to be his slave and could go free. But yes like you said the fact that it says property is troubling!
I looked this up in my Matthew Henry Commentary cuz it is a hard passage to read. However, the slavery God is talking about here is totally different than the way we view slavery in our culture in America. These people were slaves/servants due to poverty or crime and were supposed to be released after 7 years unless they wanted to continue to be a servant.
great comment! totally agree. slavery is not the same as it was in the OT.
A professor of mine in seminary explained that things like slavery were not God’s will even back then. God kind of had to meet people where they were at and move humanity, over time, toward being more & more in line with His actual will. They could not have handled/fathomed God’s true will on the subject t the time. It’s like soil that has to be cultivated over time. It took thousands of years for the world to be ready for Jesus to arrive, and even then, he was STILL ahead of his time. God was bringing about change in the way people treat others – it seems like small, insufficient change to us reading this stuff thousands of years forward in the future, but back then, these laws were a radical paradigm shift in how people navigated relational issues.
I don’t believe that. That sounds like a very pathetic God to believe in. the idea that mankind “wasn’t ready” yet He can harden hearts? He can change hearts?! To believe that God had to “meet us where we were in our flawed logic” is to believe very weak God.
I don’t read it like that. When we speak of God having to “meet us where we are” it’s because we humans cannot fathom God’s goodness and will. Yes. He can change hearts. But, I think when the oc said that they weren’t ready for change, it was because of ingrained cultural and societal beliefs about the customs they had. It doesn’t turn God into a weak entity, it just proves humanities weakness and inherent sinfulness.
When Jesus healed on the Sabbath, so many were so concerned with right and wrong that they didn’t even care about the miracle or the restored lives before them.
I know, right? they were so blinded by the law that they didn’t see the miracle, and they even went as far as to ask for a sign! I want to say, “Come on, people!” but I know I’ve been guilty of the same. I won’t bother to listen to someone because what they look like, or what they’re wearing, or who they hang out with doesn’t meet my standards. I’ll miss what God is doing because all I see is the tats and piercings or something like that.
Elisha, it’s said that the men (Pharisees/Sadducees, etc) would stand up amongst the crowd to ask their question(s)…can you imagine the embarrassment once Jesus corrected them…?! Oh my!!!
Hahahahahaha that is embarrassing! I had no idea!
So true. We can be the same way…getting so caught up in logistics that we miss what God has done in our lives and in the lives of those around us.
My word, but I’m glad we don’t live under Old Testament law.
Good grief, y’all.
Thank you, Jesus! The burden that would be!
33 “Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit.”
I love this. We are recognized and known by what we produce or what we give off. When we live our lives in a holy way as we should, we can be recognized as children of God! It also made me think of my children…I strive to be “good” so that my children grow up and are respectful and healthy.
That is really true! Thank you!
I think it is really hard because we live in such an age of freedom and rights. I don’t really have any answers for myself to the questions I have had but it is hard for me to read that and feel that women were/are valued as highly as men :/
Before reading this today, I saw an article about a famous person championing women’s equality of pay in their Oscar speech. My heart thought, “So Jesus, what do you think about this?” And I heard back, “Job’s daughters had an equal inheritance!”
Thank you!
I think that when Jesus came He changed that. In the OT I don’t think that women were as highly valued as men, but if you read all the stories, even in the OT God used women in countless ways to brig about His plan. And if look at the story of the woman at the well in John 4, Jesus wasn’t “supposed” to be talking to her, not only because she was a Samaritan, but because she was a woman, it was looked down upon for people to see him there just talking with her. But Jesus didn’t care, he cared about her soul, she was important to Him. Women are just as important in the eyes of the Lord as men are. Yes, we have different roles, but that doesn’t make one gender more important.
*bring *”if you look”
I guess I should have read over it before I posted. :p Sorry!
Thank you that is really helpful!
Glad you were encouraged. So thankful for this community of women to love and encourage one another. I have been so blessed.
Claudia, I think it goes back to curse in Genesis 3:16…Eve, lost her positioning just as Adam…same as Esau lost his birthright for Jacob’s food. BUT GOD…hallelujah…redeemed us!!! Thank You Jesus!!!
I always love reading the insight and bits of added information you ladies post, but I’m especially interested to hear what others think of today’s exodus reading!
Yes — I was about to look up some commentaries.
Oops- posted on the wrong day- sorry ladies!
I love Exodus 23:30- Little by little I will drive them out from before you, until you have increased, and you inherit the land. ** I always want everything overnight. Let me wake up tomorrow to fresh blessings and brand new starts and dreams come true. But the Lord doesn’t work that way. For He knows “lest the land become desolate…the beasts of the field too numerous for you”. His slow unfolding plans are for our benefit. So that we are not overtaken but so that we can slowly adjust to the newness of it all.
That’s alright! It makes me excited for tomorrow, because that verse was in my Spirit all last evening! Woohoo!
Thanks for sharing, Sheri. I loved your outlook on Exodus. Sometimes we don’t always understand God’s timing, we just have to trust in his plans!