Tag Archives: Separation

What Does the LORD Require? Holiness and Consecration to Him! (Exodus 39; Exodus 40)

Click on this link for translations of today’s devotion.

(Additional languages available upon request by emailing HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com.)

Scripture reading – Exodus 39-40

We conclude our study of the Book of Exodus with today’s Scripture reading (Exodus 39-40). I applaud your discipline if you have followed this “Heart of A Shepherd” from the first of this year, and I trust my daily devotional commentaries have proved to be edifying. Together, we have completed a study of three books of the Bible: Genesis, Job, and Exodus! With the LORD’s blessing, we will fulfill Paul’s challenge to Timothy when he exhorted that young pastor: “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).

Review

Several recent chapters (Exodus 25-40) were devoted to preparing Israel to bind to God’s Covenant and worship the LORD. God gave Moses directions and detailed descriptions of what He required for His sanctuary. They included the construction of His Tabernacle, the Ark of the Covenant and Mercy Seat, the Lampstand, the Altar of Incense, the Table for the bread, and various implements needed within and without the Tabernacle. The LORD also provided Moses with specific details about the Courtyard, its Brazen Altar, and the fount that served the priests as a washing station for their hands and feet.

Exodus 39

The “Holy Garments” of the High Priest

An earlier chapter (Exodus 28) recorded the design of the “holy garments” to be worn by Aaron, the brother of Moses, whom God chose as His high priest. Finally, exodus 39 recorded the fabrication of the high priests’ garments: “And of the blue, and purple, and scarlet, they made cloths of service, to do service in the holy place, and made the holy garments for Aaron; as the Lord commanded Moses” (39:1).

The stunning colors of the high priest’s “holy garments” were given (39:1-2), as well as the breastplate embedded with twelve precious stones, each engraved with the names of one of the Twelve Tribes of Israel covering his chest (39:8-14). Also, a description of the bindings of the breastplate was given, as well as other articles of clothing worn by the high priest (39:15-31). Finally, fastened to his turban was a plate of gold engraved with the words, “Holiness to the LORD” (39:30-31).

The Completion of the Tabernacle (39:32-43)

A blessed testimony for God’s people and their attention to honoring Him was summed up in Exodus 39:32, where we read, “Thus was all the work of the tabernacle of the tent of the congregation finished: and the children of Israel did according to all that the Lord commanded Moses, so did they” (39:32). So the people presented all to Moses for his inspection, including the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the golden implements the LORD required (39:32-42). Moses then looked “upon all the work, and, behold, they had done it as the Lord had commanded, even so had they done it: and Moses blessed them” (39:43).

Exodus 40 – “The End” was Only the Beginning!

Setting Up the Tabernacle (40:1-8)

With all completed as the LORD required, He commanded Moses, saying: “On the first day of the first month shalt thou set up the tabernacle of the tent of the congregation” (40:1). Moses was tasked with the responsibility of overseeing the assembly of the Tabernacle, its implements, dedicating the high priest, his sons, and the garments they were to wear in the priests’ office (40:2-8).

Consecrating All to the LORD (40:9-11)

Moses was commanded to “take the anointing oil” and dedicate as holy the Tabernacle and its vessels (40:9-11). Then, in a public ceremony of dedication, Moses was commanded to have Aaron and his sons come to “the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and wash them with water” (40:12). Then, he was to “put upon Aaron the holy garments, and anoint him, and sanctify him; that he may minister unto [the LORD] in the priest’s office” (40:13). Aaron’s sons were also to be anointed, and clothed in the robes of the “priest’s office” (40:15). Moses did all as commanded (40:16-43). Then he dedicated the work to the LORD (40:33).

An Outward Manifestation of the LORD’s Approval (40:34-38)

“Then a cloud covered the tent of the congregation, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle” (40:34). The outward manifestation of God’s approval was such that Moses could not enter the tabernacle “because the cloud abode thereon, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle” (40:35). Indeed, it was the abiding presence of the cloud that directed the steps and direction for Israel in the wilderness (40:36-37).

A sign of the LORD’s perpetual presence with His people was summed up in this: “For the cloud of the Lord was upon the tabernacle by day, and fire was on it by night, in the sight of all the house of Israel, throughout all their journeys” (40:38).

Closing thoughts –

We have learned that the LORD is interested in the place of worship and the preparation and dedication of those who serve Him as His ministers. Therefore, Moses, Aaron, and his sons were commanded to ceremonially wash their hands and feet “when they came near unto the altar,” for they served as the intercessors for the people (40:30-32).

Thirteen times in Exodus 39 and Exodus 40, we read the phrase, “as the LORD commanded Moses.” That phrase reminds me that half-hearted preparation for worshipping the LORD is unacceptable. Our God is holy, and those who serve Him should reflect His character in their lives, service, and worship.

An Exhortation to Dedication

Are you aware that the LORD requires every believer to be dedicated to Him? As He commanded Moses to dedicate and consecrate Aaron and his sons to serve Him, He requires the same of every believer.

In his letter to believers in Corinth, the apostle Paul wrote: “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? ²⁰ For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

Take a few minutes, pray, and dedicate yourself to the LORD!

* You can subscribe to the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone). You may also email your request to HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com

The Internal Revenue Service recognizes Heart of A Shepherd Inc as a 501c3 public charitable organization.

Mailing Address:
Heart of A Shepherd Inc
7853 Gunn Hwy
#131
Tampa, FL 33626-1611

You can email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.

Ordained to Serve: A Prepared Heart for Worship (Exodus 29; Exodus 30)

Click on this link for translations of today’s devotion.

(Additional languages available upon request by emailing HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com.)

Scripture reading – Exodus 29-30

Today’s Scripture reading, Exodus 29-30, finds Moses and Joshua on Mount Sinai, where they continued “forty days and forty nights” (24:18). The LORD instructed Moses that he might teach the people and give to them “tables of stone, and a law, and commandments” (24:12). He commanded Moses to receive offerings from the people (25:1-3) that were to be used in constructing and furnishing the Tabernacle. As the LORD’s sanctuary (25:8), the Tabernacle was a visible testimony of God’s presence in the midst of Israel.

The LORD also gave Moses the design and dimensions for the Tabernacle and its furnishings (25:9). Those furnishings included the Ark of the Covenant and its Mercy Seat (25:10-22), the table, and the candlestick. All were to be overlaid with gold (25:23-40). Finally, the interior and exterior of the Tabernacle were described in detail (26:1-30), including a room that was divided by a veil (26:31-33) and served as the “holy place” in which the Ark of the Covenant and the Mercy Seat was to be placed (26:33-34).

Central to Israel’s worship was the brass altar (27:1-8) in a courtyard that formed an enclosure for the Tabernacle (27:9-19). Aaron, the brother of Moses, was appointed to serve as Israel’s first high priest, and his sons served with him as common priests (28:1). God also gave Moses a detailed description of the holy garments the high priest would wear when he ministered before the LORD as Israel’s mediator (28:2-43).

Exodus 29

The Priesthood: Ordination and Consecration

Having established the Aaronic priesthood in Exodus 28, the LORD instructed Moses regarding his brother’s ordination to serve as Israel’s high priest (29:1-9). One young bull and “two rams without blemish” (29:1) were to be sacrificed, consecrating Aaron as the high priest in an ordination ceremony.

Aaron was to wash and put on the high priest’s garments (29:4-9). Moses then directed Aaron and his sons to put their hands on the bull, thereby identifying with its sacrifice as their sin offering (29:10-14). Placing their hands on one ram that was without blemish, Moses was to slay the ram as a burnt offering to the LORD (29:15-18). A second ram was then sacrificed, and it served as a “blood ordination,” for its blood was put on “the tip of the right ear of Aaron, and his sons (29:19-21), dedicating them to the priesthood.

The best parts of the second ram were offered to the LORD, and then Aaron and his sons were to consume the ram at the door of the Tabernacle (29:22-34). For each of the seven days, young bulls were to be offered for the sins of the priests and as a testimony of God’s grace in providing a substitute (29:35-37).

Twice daily, lambs were sacrificed and offered as a meat offering by fire, one in the morning and one in the evening. These were perpetual offerings to the LORD (29:38-42) and a reminder to the people that “without the shedding of blood there is no remission for sin (Hebrews 9:22). Thus, the LORD promised to “dwell among the children of Israel, and will be their God. ⁴⁶And they shall know that I am the Lord their God, that brought them forth out of the land of Egypt, that I may dwell among them: I am the Lord their God” (29:45-46).

Exodus 30

Altar of Incense (30:1-10)

The LORD instructed Moses to have “an altar to burn incense,” made with wood and overlaid “with pure gold” (30:1-5). The altar of incense was located outside the Holy Place and before the veil. There the LORD promised to meet with Moses, Aaron, and the generations that followed him. The aroma of burning incense was perpetual, burning night and day (30:6-8). Once a year, the “blood of the sin offering” was to be applied to the corner or horns of the altar of incense and serve as a reminder that only the blood atones for sin (30:9-10).

Tabernacle Tax (30:11-16)

An annual census was commanded, and a special tribute described as a “ransom” (30:12) was required of every Hebrew person twenty years old or older (30:12). A failure to believe and obey the LORD could incur a judgment described as a “plague” (30:12b).

The rich and poor were required to pay “half a shekel” (30:13), reminding us that every soul is of equal value in the sight of God (30:14-15). This “ransom” (tax or tribute) was paid for “the service [expenses] of the Tabernacle” (30:16). Those expenses would have included purchasing sacrifices, flour, wine, oil, priestly garments, and other costs.

Additionally, a large brass laver, or fount, was to be made and filled with water where the priest would wash their hands and feet before entering the Tabernacle (30:17-21).

Holy Oils and Fragrances (30:22-38)

A special anointing oil with ingredients and fragrances designed by the LORD was made and used for anointing the Tabernacle, its furniture, the altar, and the priests (30:22-31). However, it was a sacred oil and forbidden for other purposes (30:32-33). The LORD also required a unique blend of incense and perfume to be made and used before the tabernacle. The fragrance was unique to the Tabernacle and was not to be used elsewhere (30:34-38).

Closing thoughts:

What lessons should we take from the attention to detail the Scriptures have preserved for us in Israel’s worship? It is the knowledge that we should prepare our hearts for worshipping the LORD. Worship is not careless and incidental, but purposeful and done in a manner that reflects and speaks of the holiness of the LORD.

Questions to consider:

1) How did Aaron and his sons identify with the bull and ram as sacrifices for their sins? (29:10, 19)

2) What was Aaron instructed to do with the high priest’s garments when his service ended? (29:29-30)

3) What did God promise if the people continued to bring sacrifices to the Tabernacle? (29:45-46)

4) What was the purpose of the water basin that God commanded Moses to make? (30:17-21)

The Internal Revenue Service recognizes Heart of A Shepherd Inc as a 501c3 public charitable organization.

Mailing Address:
Heart of A Shepherd Inc
7853 Gunn Hwy
#131
Tampa, FL 33626-1611

You can email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.

Preparations for Worshipping the LORD (Exodus 27; Exodus 28)

Click on this link for translations of today’s devotion.

(Additional languages available upon request by emailing HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com.)

Scripture reading – Exodus 27-28

The LORD had commanded Moses, “Come up to me into the mount” (Exodus 24:12), and he and Joshua ascended Mount Sinai into the presence of the LORD. They remained there, on the mount, for “forty days and forty nights” (24:18). The LORD then gave Moses “tables of stone, and a law, and commandments” (24:12). He was instructed in the preparations that were necessary for the people to worship the Lord with their offerings (Exodus 25-31). Finally, the LORD, leaving nothing to chance, gave detailed designs for the sanctuary that would serve Israel as a perpetual reminder that He was in the midst of Israel (25:8).

Exodus 27

An Altar of Brass, The Outer Court of the Tabernacle, and Oil for the Lamp

The preparations for worship and sacrifices continued with a description of the altar of brass that would serve as the place of sacrifice. The altar was made of wood, covered in brass, and was seven feet square and four feet high (27:1). The four corners of the altar, described as “horns,” were made with rings and poles (staves), allowing the altar to be carried as the nation sojourned (27:4-8).

The Tabernacle was located within a courtyard that measured seventy-five feet on the west and east sides (27:12-13) and one hundred and fifty feet on the south and north sides (27:9-11). The outer court would have measured some ten thousand square feet.

Pure olive oil was required for lighting a lampstand that would give light “from evening to morning” (27:20-21) and serve as a perpetual reminder that the LORD was in the midst of His people.

Exodus 28

The Office and Garments of the High Priest and His Sons (28:1-3)

The brother of Moses, Aaron, and his sons were chosen by God and were to be sanctified (set apart) to serve as His priests on behalf of Israel (28:1). The garments that Aaron, the High Priest, would wear when ministering was described as “holy…for glory and for beauty” (28:2). They were “holy” because they were set apart, sanctified, and dedicated to ministry. The “glory” and “beauty” of the garments reflected the dignity of the high priest’s office.

The Garments of the High Priest (28:4-8)

Exodus 28:4-8 introduced the garments of the High Priest that consisted of a “breastplate” (a vest), an “ephod” (a ritual vest), a long one-piece robe, a coat described as “broidered,” a “mitre” (a cap), and a girdle (sash or belt that wrapped around the waist and held the breastplate in place).

Great detail was given of the High Priest’s garments, but I invite you to consider especially the breastplate and its significance (28:9-30).

Two precious stones, described as “onyx stones,” served as buttons for the front and back of the breastplate, and upon them were the names of the Twelve Tribes of Israel written (28:9-12). In addition, two stones rested on the shoulders of the High Priest and were a reminder that he was Israel’s mediator. Finally, twelve precious stones, each different from the other, were engraved with the names of each Tribe and were an ever-present reminder that the High Priest carried the children of Israel upon his heart (28:13-29).

The High Priest wore upon his forehead a plate of gold, and engraved upon it was “HOLINESS TO THE LORD” (28:36), a visual sign that he belonged to the LORD, and through the blood of sacrifices, he was Israel’s mediator (28:38).

Closing thoughts:

The garments of the High Priest gave specific evidence that there was meaning and purpose in every detail, from the breastplate over his heart that represented God’s judgment (28:15-30) to the bells about the hem of his robe whose sound gave witness to his movement within the Tabernacle, and the LORD’s acceptance of his offering on behalf of Israel (28:31-26).

Remember, the Tabernacle, the Ark, the Mercy Seat, and the Altar were types or pictures that Jesus Christ, our High Priest, ultimately fulfilled.

Hebrews 9:24, 28 – ²⁴For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:…²⁸So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.

Questions to consider:

1) What can the 21st-century church learn from the LORD’s attention to detail in the design and construction of the Tabernacle, its implements, and the High Priest’s garments?

2) Whom did God choose to serve Him as His high priest and priests to Israel? (28:1)

3) What names were engraved on the stones of the high priest’s breastplate? (28:9-12, 29)

4) What purpose did the bells on the high priest’s robe serve? (28:33-35)

The Internal Revenue Service recognizes Heart of A Shepherd Inc as a 501c3 public charitable organization.

Mailing Address:
Heart of A Shepherd Inc
7853 Gunn Hwy
#131
Tampa, FL 33626-1611

You can email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.

The Holy Place, and the Holy One: Our Redeemer (Exodus 26)

Click on this link for translations of today’s devotion.

(Additional languages available upon request by emailing HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com.)

Scripture reading – Exodus 26

Review – The Collection for the Sanctuary (Exodus 25)

The LORD had given Moses instructions to speak to “every man” to “bring an offering…willingly with his heart” (25:1-2). So then, leaving no detail unstated, God required specific materials for His sanctuary (25:3-7) that included “gold, and silver, and brass” (25:3). Various colors of linen were required (25:4), as well as dyed skins of rams and badgers (25:5), oil, spices, and precious stones (25:6-7).

Moses was also given the pattern and design for constructing the Tabernacle and the Ark (25:8-28). The Scriptures provide us a description of the instruments that were to be fashioned (25:29) and the furniture that would be required for the interior of the Tabernacle, including “a candlestick [lampstand] of pure gold” (25:30-40).

Exodus 26 – The Tabernacle’s Design (26:1-30)

There were four coverings for the Tabernacle. The first covering was made with ten curtains “of fine twined linen, and blue, and purple, and scarlet: with [cherubim] of cunning work” (26:1) woven into the fabric. This beautiful fabric served as the interior ceiling of the Tabernacle (Exodus 26:1-6).

A second covering consisted of eleven curtains of goats’ hair (26:7-14) to be used as a covering for the boards in constructing the Tabernacle. Finally, a covering “of rams’ skins dyed red, and a covering above of badgers’ skins” were placed over the boards (26:14). A description was given for the boards that would form the Tabernacle and the riggings that would adhere them (26:15-30).

The Interior Design of the Tabernacle (26:31-34)

A beautiful veil served as the interior covering for the walls of the Tabernacle: an “[veil] of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen of cunning work: with [cherubim] shall it be made” (26:31). The veil would divide the interior of the Tabernacle, and provide a space called the “the holy place and the most holy” (26:33).

The Ark, described as “the mercy seat upon the ark of the testimony” (26:34), was placed within the most holy place, known as the Holy of Holies. At one end of the “holy place,” a table and a candlestick would be set, and a curtain or “hanging… of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen, wrought with needlework” (26:36). The curtain would be hung upon “five pillars of shittim wood,” overlaid with gold (26:37).

“The Holy Place and the Most Holy” (26:33-34)

Consider the innermost room of the Tabernacle, the holy place that lay beyond the veil where the Ark of the Covenant was placed (26:33). This room represented heaven and God’s presence amid His people. The Mercy Seatof the Ark represented God’s throne. The veil separating the outer chamber of the Tabernacle from the holy place was a reminder of the great divide between sinners and the LORD (26:34). No man, but the high priest, could enteror look into the holy place, and that was only once a year. As the mediator of Israel, the high priest would bear the blood of a lamb sacrificed for the people’s sins, and He would sprinkle the blood on the mercy seat.

There is no Tabernacle, no Holy Place, and no Ark today.

The Tabernacle, the Holy Place, and the Ark were temporary symbols and testimonies for their day (Hebrews 9:8-9). They were reminders of the sinner’s need for a mediator between himself and God, who is holy and cannot tolerate sin in His presence. (Psalm 89:18; Isaiah 6:3; 43:15; 57:15; Revelation 4:8; 6:10; 15:4)

Christ’s death on the Cross, His atoning blood, and resurrection from the dead removed the need for those temporary symbols. Indeed, when Christ died on the Cross, the temple’s veil was rent in two (Matthew 27:51; Mark 15:38). The requirement of atoning blood was fulfilled by Christ shedding His blood. His death, burial, and resurrection are a lasting testimony of the sufficiency of His sacrifice for our sins (2 Corinthians 3:18).

Closing thoughts:

Jesus Christ became the believer’s “High Priest” (Hebrews 9:11) and Mediator, for He “entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us” (Hebrews 9:12). “He is the mediator of the new testament [covenant], that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that…[we] might receive the promise of eternal inheritance” (Hebrews 9:15).

Friend, is Christ your Savior, Redeemer, and High Priest? His death, burial, and resurrection provided everything you and I need for salvation. Will you turn from your sin and trust Him as Savior? We have this glorious promise in Christ: “So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation” (Hebrews 9:28).

The Internal Revenue Service recognizes Heart of A Shepherd Inc as a 501c3 public charitable organization.

Mailing Address:
Heart of A Shepherd Inc
7853 Gunn Hwy
#131
Tampa, FL 33626-1611

You can email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.

Justice for All, Love Your Enemy, and A Call for Separation (Exodus 23)

Click on this link for translations of today’s devotion.

(Additional languages available upon request by emailing HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com.)

Scripture reading – Exodus 23

The instructions that gave practical applications of the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20) continued in Exodus 23. As noted in the prior devotion (Exodus 21-22), you will recognize in today’s Scripture the foundational principles of civil society.

A Demand for Judicial Integrity: Justice for All (Exodus 23:1-3)

The ninth commandment stated, “Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour” (20:16). For justice to be fair and impartial, God’s Law demanded that Israel’s judges be above reproach and intolerant of any who would pervert justice (23:1-9). Therefore, a witness was commanded to state the truth and not bring a false accusation against an innocent man in a judicial matter, nor should a witness’ lie spare the guilty their due punishment (23:1-2). There was one law and one standard, and neither the poor nor the rich were granted a charitable judgment or spared the weight of the Law (23:3).

Blind, Compassionate Justice: “Love thy enemy.” (Exodus 23:4-5; Matthew 5:43-44; Romans 12:20)

Exodus 23:4-5 challenged man’s natural bent for vengeance when wronged and commanded God’s people to show kindness and grace even to an enemy. Understanding Israel was chiefly an agricultural nation throughout its history, the illustration of returning an ox or ass to its owner (even if he was an enemy) is practical and easily applied in our modern day. Essentially, God’s people are to offer aid and not sit by idly when they know an enemy is struggling or has suffered a loss.

Justice for All (Exodus 23:6-9)

Exodus 23:6-9 returned to judicial matters and the demand for impartial judgment. Under God’s Law, the poor were not to be denied representation or justice (23:6), and judges were to see that righteous judgment prevailed (23:7). Judges were not to be bribed (23:8), and non-Hebrews (“strangers”), were to be judged fairly (23:9).

The Sabbath Year (Exodus 23:10-12)

Emphasizing the significance of “Sabbath Rest” (20:8-11), Israel was commanded to observe a “Sabbath Year.” Every seventh year the land was to remain fallow (not to be plowed), and crops were not to be planted (23:10). The land was to rest, and if seeds volunteered and grew to bear fruit, the poor and the “beast of the field” were given liberty to eat (23:11). For both man and beast, the Sabbath was to be observed as a day to rest and “be refreshed” (23:12).

Three Feasts (or Festivals) were Observed by Israel (Exodus 23:14-19)

Israel was commanded to observe three annual festivals (23:14-19). First, there was the “feast of unleavened bread” and the Passover (23:15, 18), commemorating the Passover in Egypt when the LORD spared the firstborn of Israel. The “feast of the harvest,” known as Firstfruits and later celebrated as Pentecost, was observed at the beginning of harvest (23:16a). At that time, the first fruits of the harvest were offered to the LORD (23:19a). Finally, there was also the “feast of the ingathering,” that was observed at the end of the harvest season (23:16b), and was a time of thanksgiving.

Three Promises (Exodus 23:20-28)

The LORD made three promises to Israel, whose fulfillment was conditioned upon the people hearing and obeying His Law and Commandments (23:20-28). First, He promised to “send an Angel” before the nation to “keep [Israel] in the way, and to bring [the nation] into the place which [God had] prepared” (23:20). (I think that this “Angel” was a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ.) The LORD promised that if Israel obeyed the “voice” of the Angel, He would fulfill His covenant and “be an enemy unto thine enemies, and an adversary unto thine adversaries” (23:22).

Secondly, the LORD promised His “Angel” would protect Israel, and “go before” the nation and cut off those nations that occupied the land of Canaan (23:23). The Angel would give Israel protection (23:23), provisions (23:25), and posterity (i.e., future generations; 23:26). Unlike other nations that adopted and sacrificed to the gods of the land they conquered; Israel was to destroy the idols of the Canaanite people (23:24).

Finally, God promised to set the boundaries of the land He covenanted with Abraham (23:31). He warned Israel that the people were not to befriend or make any covenant with the Canaanites they conquered or worship their gods. Furthermore, the LORD admonished that the heathen “shall not dwell in thy land, lest they make thee sin against me: for if thou serve their gods, it will surely be a snare unto thee (23:33).

Closing thoughts:

**Although it is rarely preached in the pulpit nor practiced in the pew, the principle of radical separation is found throughout the Scriptures,**

Israel was admonished to drive the heathen out of the land. Should they fail, the children of Israel would invariably adopt the sins of their neighbors (23:33). Tragically, that same truth is all too evident in today’s churches. In his first letter to believers in ancient Corinth, Paul exhorted, “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners” (1 Corinthians 15:33). In his second letter to the same church, Paul admonished, “Wherefore come out from among them [the unsaved], and be ye separate” (2 Corinthians 6:17a).

Israel was called to separate from the heathen they conquered and to destroy their gods. So, too are believers to separate and distance themselves from the ungodly, lest we become like them! We are commanded and exhorted, “Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” (Romans 12:2).

Questions to consider:

1) How did the Law illustrate God’s demand that His people have compassion for an enemy? (Exodus 23:4-5)

2) What were the Israelites not to do during the Sabbath year? (Exodus 23:10-12)

3) What were the three feasts Israel was commanded to observe yearly? (Exodus 23:14-19)

The Internal Revenue Service recognizes Heart of A Shepherd Inc as a 501c3 public charitable organization.

Mailing Address:
Heart of A Shepherd Inc
7853 Gunn Hwy
#131
Tampa, FL 33626-1611

You can email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.

Gnosticism and Four Proofs of Genuine Faith and Salvation (1 John 1; 1 John 2)

Click on this link for translations of today’s devotion.

Scripture reading – 1 John 1; 1 John 2

Today’s Scripture reading is 1 John 2, but I am taking liberty to review 1 John 1 and give some background to this wonderful letter to believers of the latter years of the 1^st century. Lord willing, we will consider 1 John 2 in the future.

Introduction

Scholars suppose The First Epistle of John was written near the close of the first century between A.D. 85-90. The apostle John was an elderly man, and in the last years of his remarkable life. While he failed to identify himself by name, the beauty and style of the writing is similar to the Gospel of John. John’s name also does not appear in his Gospel either; however, he references himself on several occasions as the disciple “whom Jesus loved” (John 13:23; 20:2; 21:7, 20). The same pattern holds true in the Epistles of 2 John and 3 John. In addition, the historical details presented in the introductory verses were written by a disciple who had intimate knowledge of our Lord.

An Eyewitness Account of the Person and Earthly Life of Christ (1:1-4)

Consider the following eyewitness account regarding the historical evidences of Christ’s incarnation: “That which was from the beginning [Eternal God], which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life” (1:1; John 1:1-3, 14)

Many reading John’s letter were the children and grandchildren of believers who had been contemporaries of the apostles. With assertive, apostolic authority, John was writing to second and third generation believers. Imagine being part of that generation, and receiving a letter from John giving his eyewitness account of Christ’s sufferings, crucifixion, death, and resurrection! (1:1-4)

The Existence and Nature of Sin (1:5-6)

By the time of this letter, persecution was an ever-present threat, and several apostles were martyred. Adding to the danger was the presence of false teachers in the congregations. The doctrine of Gnosticism (a blend of paganism, Greek philosophy, Judaism, and “Christianity”), had created doubt among some. Heretics were spreading that doctrine, boasting spiritual enlightenment, and proposing a progressive, amoral view of what some call today, “Christian liberty.”

Purveyors of Gnosticism suggested sin was no longer an issue, and taught believers were free of any concern for God’s Law and Commandments. Adding to their heresies was a rejection of Christ as the pre-incarnate Son of God made flesh, and His virgin birth, bodily crucifixion, and resurrection from the dead.

If you are reading today’s devotion and doubt your salvation, or wonder, “Is it possible for a man to know he is saved?” The answer is yes, and John stated four conditions that authenticate the sincerity of a man’s salvation and profession of Christ as Savior.

Four Conditions Test the Authenticity of One’s Salvation (1:7-9)

The first condition of authentic salvation is a sincere believer will not continue in sin. Of the Gnostics, John warned, “God is light [altogether righteous], and in him is no darkness at all. ⁶If we say that we have fellowship with him [Christ], and walk in darkness [continue in sin], we lie, and do not the truth” (1:5-6). In other words, a person is a liar, if he claims to be a believer and follower of Christ, and continues in sin.

Another test involves fellowship with other believers. We understand that sin inhibits our fellowship with other believers. John wrote, “if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another” (1:7a). Fellowship with God and fellowship with others are dependent on our commitment to “walk in the light” of God’s truth.

A third test of one’s sincerity is an understanding that, sin deceives, and if tolerated, will snatch away the truth. Again, John wrote, “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us” (1:8).

Lastly, true believers accept only by confessing sins are we forgiven, cleansed, and “walk in the light” (1:9). So, we read, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1:9)

Closing thoughts (1:10) – Though under a different name, and perhaps more sophisticated than it was in the 1^stcentury, Gnosticism has been revived. Today’s Gnostics are more subtle in their denials, but what they do not say with their lips, they demonstrate with their lies and lives. The Gnostics of the 21^st century preach and follow a grace and liberty that denies the holiness of God. Regardless of what some profess, be forewarned: “If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us” (1:10).

Warning – Unconfessed sin will blind you spiritually, and leave you in darkness.

* You can become a regular subscriber of the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals, and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone).

Heart of A Shepherd Inc is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501c3, and is a public charitable organization. Mailing address: Heart of A Shepherd Inc, 6201 Ehrlich Rd., Tampa, FL 33625. You can email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.

Earnestly Contend for the Faith (Jude 1, 1 John 1)

Click on this link for translations of today’s devotion.

Scripture reading – Jude 1, 1 John 1

Today’s Scripture reading is the Epistle of Jude and The First Epistle of John, chapter 1.

“The General Epistle of Jude” may be the lesser known of the pastoral epistles, but I believe you will find it challenging and absorbing. Concerning the title, the term “General” indicated the letter was not dedicated to a specific church, but to the churches and believers in general.

The authorship was attributed to one who identified himself as Jude, and introduced himself in the first verse as, “Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James” (Jude 1a). Bible scholars are nearly unanimous in their opinion that Jude was the half-brother of Jesus Christ, and therefore the son of Joseph and Mary, and “brother of James” (Jude 1:1). James, from our study in the Acts of the Apostles, was believed to have been the pastor\elder of the congregation in Jerusalem (Matthew 13:55; Mark 6:3; Acts 12:17; 21:18-25; Galatians 1:19). Although a half-brother of Jesus, Jude identified himself as a “servant,” literally a slave “of Jesus Christ” (1:1).

As with the Second Epistle of Peter, the Epistle of Jude was most likely written in the latter half of the 1^st century. The intended recipients of the letter were believers who were already facing growing trials and persecutions. In his salutation, Jude affirmed those followers of Christ, and reminded them they were “sanctified [set apart, called to be holy] by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called” (meaning chosen, 1:1). Following his affectionate greeting, Jude made no hesitation as to the purpose of his letter.

Warning: The Danger of Apostates (1:3-4)

It appears Jude’s original intent was to write a letter that exhorted and encouraged believers regarding their “common salvation” (1:3). Yet, something changed, and Jude was impressed to write an urgent letter that warned and admonished believers to beware of enemies of the Gospel who were in their midst. Perhaps the theme of the epistle might be summed up in this statement: “Earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (1:3).

What was the “faith” for which Jude challenged believers to contend? (1:3)

The “faith” was the whole whole body of Biblical doctrine (teachings). To “contend for the faith,” meant to agonize, struggle, and even war. Contending implied more than a skirmish or battle; it portrayed an agonizing effort and struggle. When one contends for something, they are wholly committed, and unwilling to quit till the victory is won.

Thus, Jude challenged believers to face the trials and challenges of those who opposed “the faith” and never surrender (1:3). That brings us to another question:

With whom were believers to contend? (1:4)

Verse 4 gives us the answer, where we read: “⁴For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men” (Jude 4a).

Even before the end of the first century, there were wicked men in the midst of the saints, in their churches, and fellowships. They were a threat to the faith, having “crept in unawares,” and by stealth were accepted by the congregation (1:4b). They were apostates, “ungodly men,” who had turned the teachings of God’s grace into a liberty that opened the door to sexual debauchery and a license to sin (1:4c). They had no fear or reverence for God, and denied “the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ” (1:4d).

An Assurance of God’s Judgment Upon Apostasy (1:5-7)

In his second epistle, Peter challenged believers to remember those things they had been taught (2 Peter 1:12, 15; 3:1). Jude did the same, and reminded believers of the judgment of God against all ungodliness. To know the ways and pattern of God’s working in the present and future, one needs to know and remember those things the Lord has done in the past. Thus, to be assured God would not allow apostasy to go unpunished, Jude put forward three patterns of God’s judgment in the past.

The first, how the Lord saved Israel out of Egyptian slavery, and graciously guided over six-hundred thousand souls (Exodus 12:37) through the wilderness (a cloud shadowing the people by day, and a pillar of fire guiding them at night). Yet, when the children of Israel rebelled, and refused to trust God and enter the Promised Land, the Lord “destroyed them that believed not” and they perished in the wilderness.

A second example of God’s judgment, was when He judged the angels who followed Lucifer in his rebellion (Isaiah 14:12-15; Ezekiel 28:12-17). The LORD sentenced those fallen angels “in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day” (1:6; 2 Peter 2:4).

God’s judgment of Sodom and Gomorrah was the third example of divine judgment (1:7; Genesis 19). As God judged those cities for their sin and sexual debauchery, He would surely not spare those evil men who had crept into the midst of His people, and led them astray with their heresies and wicked ways.

Closing thoughts – I conclude today’s devotion with this observation:

The majority of churches and Christian institutions in the 21^st century have not earnestly contended for the faith, and the evidence of that failure is widespread carnality, and immorality. Tragically, believers who tolerate such wickedness in their leadership and churches, will themselves fall under the heavy hand of God’s judgment.

Warning – Reject the truth, and you will suffer God’s judgment.

An Invitation, and A Reflection of Spiritual Maturity (2 Peter 1; 2 Peter 2)

Click on this link for translations of today’s devotion.

Scripture reading – 2 Peter 1; 2 Peter 2

Greetings from the Heart of A Shepherd: With the finish line in sight, our two-year chronological Scripture reading program is nearly over. It has been my privilege to share with you the gleanings of my own devotional time in the Word of God. Thank you for taking this journey with me!

Changes are coming to “Heart of A Shepherd” in 2023: On January 1, 2023, I will launch my own independent website (the transition for current subscribers should be seamless, and without interruption). My commitment to the faithful exposition of the Scriptures will continue unabated; however, the look and design of the new website will be fresh, and I hope appealing.

Why the change? I anticipate a growing adversarial spirit in society toward a Biblical worldview. In fact, I believe the demand for censoring “politically incorrect” views and opinions will only intensify. After experiencing the “Facebook” graveyard (I was canceled without notice, August 2020), I fear it is only a matter of time before website hosts and other social media outlets will cave to political attacks and the demand for censorship.

To protect the content and integrity of “Heart of A Shepherd,” I look forward to my own website that will host past and future devotionals and video broadcasts. You are invited to make the transition with me, and renew your commitment to the disciplines and commitment necessary for studying the Scriptures. I invite you to download the 2023-2024 Scripture reading schedule, and return with me to Genesis, the first book of the Bible.

2 Peter 1 – An Introduction

The letter known as “The Second Epistle of Peter” (titled in some Bibles, “The Second General Epistle of Peter,” (general meaning it was not addressed to a specific individual or congregation), was written by the apostle Peter. Peter was numbered among Christ’s twelve disciples, and one of three members of His inner circle (the others being James and his brother John).

After a salutation in which he identified himself as the author (1:1), Peter addressed the recipients of the epistle. With loving affection, he identified them as having “obtained like precious faith…through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ” (1:1). You will notice a sense of urgency in the opening verses of the first chapter. Like Paul in his second epistle to Timothy (2 Timothy 3:1), Peter was mindful he was writing to believers living “in the last days” (3:3).

The Effect of Salvation (1:3-7)

Peter called on believers to grow spiritually, and pressed them to manifest the godly qualities that should be evident in the lives of all believers (1:3-7). Challenging the followers of Christ concerning the effect of genuine salvation and sanctification (1:3-4), the apostle called on believers to strive for seven godly virtues, or manifestations of spiritual character.

Peter wrote: “giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; ⁶And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; ⁷And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity” (1:5-7).

Seven Virtues (1:5-7)

Understanding saving faith is the essential foundation of spiritual growth, Peter challenged believers to discipline themselves, and strive for seven spiritual virtues (1:5-7).

Virtue (moral excellence; the determination to “Do Right”); Knowledge (practical and personal knowledge of God and His Word); Temperance (self-control; having the mastery of one’s thoughts and desires; fruit of the Spirit, Galatians 5:22-23); Patience (perseverance; enduring trials); Godliness (godly in relationships, Titus 2:12); Brotherly kindness (love of the brethren; John 13:34-35; 1 John 3:10-12); and Charity (self-sacrificing, unconditional, selfless love, 1 John 3:17-18).

Closing thoughts – So much more could be gleaned from today’s reading, but I will close drawing your attention to the phrase, “these things” (1:8, 9, 10, 12, 15). Five times, Peter impressed upon his readers the necessity of “these things” being “in you, and abound” (1:8). He warned, if you lack “these things” you are spiritually blind (1:9). Peter urged, by doing “these things, ye shall never fall” (1:10). He asserted, “I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things” (1:12). Lastly, writing of his imminent death, Peter wrote, “I will endeavour that ye may be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance” (1:15).

What were the “things” the apostle impressed upon believers living in the “last days”? Answer: The seven virtues that define sincere faith, and sanctification: Virtue; Knowledge; Temperance; Patience; Godliness; Brotherly kindness; and Charity (1:5-7).

Are those “things” evident in your life?

The Character and Moral Depravity of the Last Days (2 Timothy 3; 2 Timothy 4)

Click on this link for translations of today’s devotion.

Scripture reading – 2 Timothy 3; 2 Timothy 4

Our Scripture reading brings us to the close of Paul’s final epistle. Addressed to Timothy, his “dearly beloved son” in the faith (1:2), one can sense the power and passion of that great apostle whose life was a testimony of God’s grace and humility. 2 Timothy 3 served as a powerful warning and exhortation to not only Timothy, but to all believers. 2 Timothy 4 recorded Paul’s final salute, his farewell address to Timothy and all who would read this epistle.

Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit (3:16-17), Paul wrote with the passion of a man who knew his earthly ministry and days were ending. For our devotion, I will limit my focus to 2 Timothy 3, with the hope I might return to this powerful passage in the future.

2 Timothy 3 – Preaching to the Church of the Last Days

After urging Timothy to be faithful, and reminding him of his spiritual heritage (2:14-15), Paul admonished the young preacher with a prophetic portrait of “the last days,” warning, “perilous times shall come” (3:1).

The Character of the Last Days (3:1)

The “last days” are the days that followed Christ’s ascension to heaven (Acts 1-2), and precede the Second Coming of Christ (1 Thessalonians 4:13-19). Paul warned: “This know” (meaning be sure, don’t be surprised), “in the last days” (the final time, the end of the ages), “perilous times shall come” (difficult, violent, dangerous times of wickedness and depravity).

Paul warned, the latter days of the earth will be marked by wickedness and apostasy like the world had not seen since the days of Noah. The apostle John would later write concerning the apostate church of Laodicea (Revelation 3:14-20), the church of the last days: “Thou art neither cold nor hot… thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked” (Revelation 3:15-17). Tragically, the 21^st century church is everything John warned the apostate church would become!

The Moral Depravity of the Church in the Last Days (3:2-9)

In amazing, prophetic detail, Paul described not only the world, but in particular the congregations of professing believers in the last days. For our study, I suggest four vivid portraits that are an apt depiction of the 21^st century church and its moral depravity. (Please note that words in brackets are from the author and meant to amplify or illuminate your study.)

A Heresy of Self-love (3:2-4)

“²For men shall be lovers of their own selves [self-centered; self-serving], covetous [lovers of silver], boasters, proud, blasphemers [cursing, reviling God’s name], disobedient to parents (Exodus 20:12), unthankful, unholy [having no regard for God],

³Without natural affection [indifferent; unloving], trucebreakers [hostile; divisive], false accusers [slanderers], incontinent [immoral], fierce [cruel; savage], despisers of those that are good, [hate the righteous] ⁴Traitors [betrayers], heady [heady], highminded [puffed up], lovers of pleasures [narcissistic] more than lovers of God” (3:2-4)

A Prevalence of Hypocrisy (3:5)

The second trait of the church in the last days is hypocrisy. Professing believers are described as displaying an outward piety, but their lives show no effect of the conviction and power of God’s Word. Paul warned, “turn away” from them (3:5). In other words, do not be a member of a fellowship that is guilty of a pattern of sin and ungodliness (1 Corinthians 5:9-11, 13; 2 Corinthians 6:17).

The Presence of Apostates Leading Astray the Spiritually Weak (3:6-7)

In the last days, the church will be afflicted with false teachers and their doctrines (3:6-7). With the introduction of mass publishing, radio and television in the 20^th century, and the internet in the 21^st century, apostate teaching has become epidemic. False teachers “creep into houses,” and “silly,” foolish women often fall victim, taking their families with them into all manner of evil (3:6). Interestingly, they are described as “ever learning,” always seeking some new doctrine, but tragically, they are blinded by sin and “never able to come to the knowledge of the truth” (3:7).

The Exposure and Punishment of False Teachers (3:8-9)

Apostate teachers were compared with men who were believed to have been part of Pharoah’s court (Exodus 7:11). We read, Jannes and Jambres had “withstood Moses” (3:8), and perhaps counterfeited the signs (miracles) performed by him. Paul warned, false teachers were like Jannes and Jambres. They are dangerous, often skilled orators, and at first their deviation from the Truth is subtle. Only those with spiritual discernment are able to avoid being carried away with their false doctrine. As Jannes and Jambres were eventually exposed as frauds, and counterfeiters, so false teachers should be exposed, and allowed to “proceed no further” (3:9a).

Question – How might believers avoid false teachers?

Two closing principles (3:10-12; 15-17)

1) Know who you are following (3:10-12).

2) Study and know the Scriptures: They “are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith…[for] ¹⁶All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: ¹⁷That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works” (3:15-17).

I urge you to examine not only your church fellowship, but those you follow for spiritual direction.

Love, Marriage and Money (Hebrews 13; 2 Timothy 1)

Click on this link for translations of today’s devotion.

Scripture reading – Hebrews 13; 2 Timothy 1

Our journey through the Epistle to the Hebrews concludes with today’s Scripture reading, Hebrews 13. The author has reminded the believers of the saving faith of their forefathers (naming many of the great patriarchs in Israel’s history; Hebrews 11). In chapter 12, he challenged the saints to keep the faith (12:1) and focus upon Christ, “looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith” (12:2). The believers were exhorted to accept God’s chastening, for like a loving earthly father, the Lord chastens His people that their lives might yield “the peaceable fruit of righteousness” (12:11). With a reminder, “God is a consuming fire” (12:29), the writer of Hebrews closed chapter 12 by urging believers to revere the Lord and fear His displeasure.

Today’s devotional is taken from Hebrews 13:1-6.

Hebrews 13

In the closing verses of his letter, the author addressed several topics that are personal and practical in nature.

The Believer’s Relationship with the Congregation (13:1-3)

The first topic was the believer’s conduct within the congregation and was addressed in three exhortations: “Let brotherly love continue” (13:1); in other words, love is the bond that binds us as brothers and sisters in Christ. The second exhortation regarded the ministry of hospitality (13:2). Believers are not only to love one another; we are also to show hospitality and love for strangers. Imagine, there may come a time when, like Abraham in Genesis 19, you will serve “angels unawares” (13:2). Lastly, believers are to love those in prison (remember, seasons of persecution would see many confined to prisons, 13:3).

An Exhortation to Purity and Contentment (13:4-6)

“Marriage is Honourable” (13:4)

Roman society in the first century was not much different from our own. Believers who read this epistle were confronted by gross immorality. Sexual promiscuity and sodomy were ever present in the Roman world. Sadly, 21^st century society has followed the same path of moral erosion, and attacked marriage as an institution. Liberal judges and politicians have impaled our homes with the whims of political correctness, and introduced a moral decadence that now threatens to destroy not only our families, but our nation.

The author admonished believers, “⁴Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge” (13:4). While society has changed, be forewarned, God has not changed. Our Creator founded and established marriage as a sacred institution between one woman and one man (Genesis 2:23-24), and none dare defile it by sexual immorality without risking the wrath and judgment of God (13:3).

Be Content (13:5-6)

Covetousness was another sin addressed by the writer (13:5). Understanding the word “conversation” implied one’s conduct or way of life, we read: “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have” (13:5a). While the world of 1^st century believers was different than our own, the problem of a covetous, money-loving nature was the same. In his letter to Timothy, Paul observed, “they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition” (1 Timothy 6:9). The apostle continued, “For the love of money is the root of all evil,” warning many had coveted, and were “pierced themselves through with many sorrows” (1 Timothy 6:10).

Closing thoughts – Rather than trust in riches that take wings and fly away (Proverbs 23:5), we should place our faith in the Lord, who has said, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee” (13:5b). Only then might we face the world, and “boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me” (13:6).

If only believers would learn, happiness will never be found in money or possessions.