Today´s reading:
OT: I Samuel 17, I Samuel 18:1-4
NT: John 8:21-30
Ps: Psalm 111
Pr: Proverbs 15:11
Gospel Thread - OT:
45 David said to the Philistine, "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. 46 This day the LORD will hand you over to me, and I'll strike you down and cut off your head. Today I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. 47 All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD's, and he will give all of you into our hands."
I Samuel 17:45-47 (NIV)
This response reveals David's character, and demonstrates why he - rather than Saul - is the type of person God would choose to be king of His people and the type of person God considers to be after His own heart. David demonstrates utmost faith in and reliance upon God, and desires to glorify God for the outcome of his circumstance. This faith is saving faith: understanding and confession that God provides the one and only way.
Gospel Thread - NT:
But he continued, "You are from below; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world.
John 8:23 (NIV)
Jesus was not just a "good man" or a prophet. As C.S. Lewis explains so succinctly in Mere Christianity, Jesus leaves no option available other than that he was a liar, a lunatic, or the Lord that He claimed to be. He cannot be a "good man" and a liar, just as he cannot be a prophet and a lunatic. He left the choice concerning him with no other options in order to force us either to accept him, or to reject him - he left no room for middle ground, for a non-decision.
Gospel Thread - Psalms/Proverbs:
He provided redemption for his people; he ordained his covenant forever— holy and awesome is his name.
Psalm 111:9 (NIV)
The One Year Bible Blog´s comments for today.
