Going Deeper: Reading Through the Bible

Thursday, March 4, 2010

I am loving it as I read through the Scriptures! It’s never too late to start, so join me!

Here are some more gleanings from Numbers, Psalms, Matthew and Romans.

Numbers

Psalms

Sometimes we acknowledge God’s fearsomeness by clapping and shouting. “Clap your hands, all peoples! Shout to God with loud songs of joy! For the LORD, the Most High, is to be feared…” (47:1-2)
God’s love is steadfast…Think about it! “We have thought on your steadfast love, O God…” (48:9)
“Truly no man can ransom another, or give to God the price of his life…” (49:7). But the God-Man can—Jesus, who gave His life a ransom for many (Matt. 20:28).
“…Even the wise die; the fool and the stupid alike must perish…Man in his pomp will not remain; he is like the beasts that perish” (49:10, 12). Death is an inevitable equalizer.
I was reminded of this great verse when preparing to preach from Acts 4:23-31, wherein we read of the church’s prayer meeting upon Peter and John’s release. “And call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me” (50:15).
“Mark this, then, you who forget God…” (50:22) Forget you? O Lord, may it never be!

Matthew

Acts

Everywhere the church was spoken against, according to Acts 28:22. I am prompted by Ray Ortlund to say, “May it be so of Rocky Bayou Baptist Church! Opposed, not ignored, for the sake of Christ and his gospel!”

Romans

“…a servant of Jesus Christ…set apart for the gospel of God…” (1:1). My calling and that of all believers.
Goal of ministry and mission: “…to bring about the obedience of faith for the sake of his name among all the nations, including you who are called to belong to Jesus Christ” (1:5-6).
Be eager to preach the gospel to converted people! “So I am eager to preach the gospel to you also who are in Rome.” (1:15) Who is Paul addressing? “All those in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints…” (1:7).

Going Deeper