Revelation: Insight!

So many people categorize Revelation as book that can’t really do much for their spiritual walk, but rather that it is just a warning of what is to come. All of the elaborate metaphors and descriptions of the end times can be a little overwhelming, but I have discovered a brilliant and everlasting truth. Revelation 1:8, “I am the Alpha and the Omega, says the Lord God, Who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.” For me, this represents God’s constancy in my life, no matter where I am, mentally, physically, emotionally, or spiritually. He is the beginning and the end. My life starts and finishes within His presence. Christ is my first love, and will always be my forever love.

Revelation: Intro.

Authorship: John the Apostle.

Date: 90-95 A.D.

Audience: All believers.

Genre: A revelation! A cross between prophecy and an epistle.

*aha!: Although several mysterious things are present in the book, it is indicative to the fact that God is mysterious and that we can never really understand who he is and how we works until we are joined with him in heaven.

Jude: Insight.

Jude focuses heavily on the importance of the end times and our need to persevere until then. As expected a reliance on Old Testament events was expected. Jude 1:5-7 recounts, “Though you already know all this, I want to remind you that the Lord delivered his people out of Egypt, but later destroyed those who did not believe. And the angels who did not keep their positions of authority but abandoned their own home—these he has kept in darkness, bound with everlasting chains for judgment on the great Day. In a similar way, Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding towns gave themselves up to sexual immorality and perversion. They serve as an example of those who suffer the punishment of eternal fire.” Reading this passage gave me a rare reminder of God’s intense, great power. Honestly, for me, this truth can sometimes get lost in all the lofty messages of hope and love that are present in the New Testament.

Jude: Intro.

Authorship: Jude, brother of James, half-brother of Jesus.

Date: 60-80 A.D.

Audience: Any and all Christians.

Genre: Epistle.

*aha!: The content of the book of Jude heavily relates to and is based on the book of 2nd Peter, concerning the end times and high reliance to the importance of Old Testament prophets, etc.

1,2,3 John: Insight.

Something I noticed right away about these three epistles was the prevalence of the walking theme again, which is something that really speaks to my soul. 1 John 1:7 says to, “walk in the light” and 2 John 1:6 says, “And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.” It is so important that we literally and figuratively walk in the light and love we gain in Christ. Another theme common in the three is LOVE. 1 John 4:7 proclaims, “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.” This idea of loving one another is reiterated in 3 John 1:5-6 which calls us to support fellow believers saying, “Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers, even though they are strangers to you. They have told the church about your love. You will do well to send them on their way in a manner worthy of God.” It’s important to not only love Christ, but to love your brothers and sisters in Christ, with a fierce and sacrificial love.

1,2,3 John: Intro.

Authorship: The Apostle John.

Date: 85-95 A.D.

Audience: The early church.

Genre: Epistles.

*aha!: The Apostle John knew Christ very well and his writing reflect that. He encourages us to have a close and intimate relationship with our Savior.

1&2 Peter: Insight.

Reading through first and second Peter, I found a few similar themes and wordings. Especially concentrating on the term, ‘living’. In 1st Peter we are presented with the ideas of being born again with a living hope, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (verse 3), and as being a living stone, a vision of a living church, “As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him” (Chapter 2:4). Also, in 2nd Peter, we are presented with the challenge to keep a living knowledge and intelligence, something I truly appreciate. 2 Peter 1:5-8, “For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” It also presents faith as something that must grow, and develop, like any ‘living’ thing should.

1&2 Peter: Intro.

Authorship: Peter! Although the his authorship of 2 Peter has been disputed.

Date: 60-65 A.D.

Audience: Believers who were suffering persecution.

Genre: Epistles.

*aha!: Peter himself was the victim of much persecution and it is very evident in his writing. He says we identify with Christ when we suffer. He also wrote about standing firm in your faith in not only persecution, but in the belittling of faith and to fight false teachers. Growth in faith is essential.

James: Insight.

Ever since taking my History and Literature of Ancient Israel (Old Testament) class my first semester, I have been enthralled with the stories of the people who lived in those difficult times. It's amazing to see that God empowered them to overcome so many different issues. Notably, I love the story of Job. The story of this man who lost everything yet remained faithful, is brought up by James in Chapter 5:11. "Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful."

Being reminded of the triumphant and inspirational stories of people in the Old Testament, in the context of the New Testament, attests to the great power that God's word holds, even over hundreds of years.

James: Intro.

Authorship: James, brother of Jesus, and head of Jerusalem church.

Date: Perhaps the earliest book of the New Testament, perhaps being written in 45 A.D.

Audience: Jewish Christians.

Genre: Epistle.

*aha!: James seems to be a topic of debate in the theological community. Many (Martin Luther included) believed that James’ writings contradicted the ideas found in Pauline writings. When in actuality, he was just warning against a super overzealous interpretation of his works, which many were doing- defying government, laws, and social morality. James’ teachings focus on the works that should come from the justification of Christ that Paul so heavily wrote about.

Hebrews: Insight.

A passage of Hebrews that has truly affected my life ever since I read it is Hebrews 6:13-20, “For when God made a promise to Abraham, since he had no one greater by whom to swear, he swore by himself, saying, "Surely I will bless you and multiply you." And thus Abraham, having patiently waited, obtained the promise. For people swear by something greater than themselves, and in all their disputes an oath is final for confirmation. So when God desired to show more convincingly to the heirs of the promise the unchangeable character of his purpose, he guaranteed it with an oath, so that by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us. We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.”

This passage so beautifully conveys the certainty of God’s Promise, but that we may be required to wait ever so patiently for it to be fulfilled. Coming to CCU this year, I had many expectations. At first, I was disappointed that several of those things I desired or yearned for didn’t come to pass, academically and personally. But the promise found in Hebrews echoed in my heart and mind. I will patiently wait on the Lord and accept and embrace that the plans he has for my life will unfold exactly when he wants them to, and exactly when I’m ready for them.

Hebrews: Intro.

Authorship: A mystery! Generally thought to be Paul, but Barnabas, Silas, Philip, Aquila, or Priscilla have been considered.

Date: 65 A.D.

Audience: The Jews who had been slipping back into the rites and rituals of Judaism to avoid the starting persecution of Christians.

Genre: Sermon.

*aha!: The old testament really comes into focus in Hebrews when the author writes about the past Levitical priests, and the sacrifice system. He compares it to the perfection we can find in Christ and the fact that Jesus can give us more than any religion ever could.

Philemon: Insight.

Often times, you will run across a book of the bible that has not only a strong faith and theological base, but that also contains a strong political and social commentary. Philemon fits that criteria. Although Paul (or the early church) didn't directly condemn slavery, he made a bold case for masters treating slaves as humans, and presented the idea that LOVE was vital for a relationship like this to be successful and glorifying. Paul laid the foundations for the expectation of humanitarian interaction between those who were in power, and those who were under them. Paul was implying that such virtues as humility and acceptance could be derived from this common love between people of different rank.

Philemon: Intro.

Authorship: Paul.

Date: 60 A.D.

Audience: Philemon, a slave owner who also held a church in his home.

Genre: Letter.

*aha!: Philemon truly represents the contrast and comparison of old testament, mosaic law. The intertwinement of law and grace found in the new testament is very striking here.

Titus: Insight.

Once again, continuing in the same vein in 1 Timothy, of taking salvation for granted, the book of Titus emphasizes some of the same needs to remember steadfastly Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. Paul writes about remembering the shortcomings of our past and embracing the new life of love we have gained with Christ. In Titus 3:3-5 he writes, “At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit,” We are sinners because of our past actions. The only way we can truly move on from our sin is to embrace our salvation and what it calls us to do and how it calls us to live our lives.

Titus:Intro.

Authorship: Paul.
Date: 66 A.D.
Audience: Titus, the leader of the church in Crete.
Genre: Pastoral Epistle.
*aha!: Paul once again emphasizes the fact that those holding to the old mosaic traditions, rituals, circumcision, and other ceremonies. Throughout his teachings and writing this has been a common theme, but in Titus he goes so far as to say their mouths must be stopped.

2 Timothy: Insight.

On my very first day at CCU, all of the new freshmen were ushered into the gym for a welcoming event. The event was led by student leaders, and they shared with us the them verse for our class. Which is 2 Timothy: 1:7, “For God gave us a spirit not of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” Not only did I feel that this was extremely applicable for a group of fresh college students, but what a guarantying verse for anyone at a point in their life when they are afraid or facing new challenges. Whenever I feel scared or inadequate, I turn to this verse to know that I have been endowed with the ability from my Creator, to overcome whatever obstacle may be in my way.

2 Timothy: Intro.

Authorship: Paul.

Date: 67 A.D., shortly before Paul’s death.

Audience: Timothy, who was still in charge of many churches and needed Paul’s encouragement and guidance.

Genre: Personal letter.

*aha!: Paul wrote this from his imprisonment in Rome. And it was clear to see that he was lonely and recognized that he was near the end of his earthly life. Yet despite groveling in his own circumstances, he continued to support and offer encouragement to Timothy. He urged all to persevere in their faith.

1 Timothy: Insight.

Often times, I feel as though I personally cheapen the idea that I am a sinner. I tend to take the truth of the matter for granted. It has become an assumption for me. Something I don’t really acknowledge. I know that Jesus Christ died for me, but sometimes my mind doesn’t grasp how truly amazing that is. I truly appreciate the power of scripture in helping me with this. All it takes is for me to read a verse or two of this truth portrayed so beautifully and vividly. 1 Timothy 1:14-16 is one of those affecting passages. Paul writes, “The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life.” This idea is conveyed so perfectly in scripture and provides a perfect reminder of who I really am, and why I need Jesus.

1 Timothy: Intro.

Authorship: Paul.

Date: 62-66 A.D.

Audience: Timothy, who was in charge of the church in Ephesus and several other churches in the Asia province.

Genre: Personal letter.

*aha!: Paul treats Timothy like his, “son in faith” by nurturing him with advice on doctrine, leadership, and administration. In turn, these ideas can help modern churches and governments as well.

2 Thessalonians: Insight.

In 2 Thessalonians, we are called to stand firm and not be idle in our faith, which is a different sort of encouragement than that is offered in 1 Thessalonians. Although we may be worried about the end times and such, it is still our duty to hold to the idea expressed in chapter 2:13-15, “But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers loved by the Lord, because from the beginning God chose you to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth. He called you to this through our gospel, that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.” It is encouragement, yet it is encouragement with the reaffirming of our abilities and duties as believers.

2 Thessalonians: Intro.

Authorship: Paul with Silas and Timothy.

Date: 51-52 A.D.

Audience: Again, Paul was writing to the church in Thessalonica to soothe misconceptions about
the Day of the Lord’s coming.

Genre: Letter.

*aha!: Paul refers heavily to the Old Testament prophets, especially Daniel. Yet rather than being verbose and lecturing about history, Paul makes information about the end times much more accessible.

1 Thessalonians: Insight.

For me, 1 Thessalonians is a great source of encouragement. I love that this sort of encouragement can be found in God’s word so plainly. Chapter 3:11-12 states, “Now may our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus clear the way for us to come to you. May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you.” Paul encourages the believers with not only the love of Christ, but the love he feels for them. He really emphasizes that believers should support and love each other. Yet even when the human encouragement of your friends, family, or congregation fails, we can always find assurance in scripture.

1 Thessalonians: Intro.

Authorship: Paul, with Silas and Timothy.

Date: 50 A.D.

Audience: The church in Thessalonica, where there were a few misunderstandings concerning the return of Christ.

Genre: Letter.

*aha!: Paul relates the persecution of the Thessalonians to the persecution of the prophets in the old testament.

Colossians: Insight.

Often times, my days are so busy I don’t have time to detract myself from the world and delve into God’s word. So a quirk of mine that I employ is to write verse references on my sneakers. One of the verses I have written on a pair is Colossians 3:12, “Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” It’s astonishing that even something as simple as writing a verse reference on my shoes can remind me of my calling as a child of God.

Colossians: Intro.

Authorship: Paul with the help of Timothy.

Date: 58-62 A.D.

Audience: The Church in Colosse, where Jewish legalism was a very big issue, to the extent that they wanted to add legal requirements to holding faith. Also, it was written to denounce heresy that had arisen in the church and challenged the existence of the church.

Genre: Letter.

*aha!: Colossians really focuses on the issues occurring in the church there at the time, but the themes of ethics in an individual, a family, and workplace, and that of the important sufficiency of Christ alone, are truly applicable to modern churches.

Insight: Philippians.

A passage of Philippians that truly caught my attention is Chapter 2:4-8. “Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross!” This eloquent yet firm account is a reminder of how much Christ truly sacrificed us, and how willing he was to die for us, no matter what he had to endure for that.

Philippians:Intro.

Authorship: Paul with the help of Timothy.

Date: 61 A.D.

Audience: The Church in Philippi, whom Paul was thanking for their financial contributions.

Genre: Letter.

*aha!: Rather than focusing on Pauline doctrine, Philippians truly focuses on the relationship between Paul and the church, and the great gratitude. Another distinguishing fact about Philippians is how joyful it is and the happiness it evokes in its readers.

Ephesians:Insight.

“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”
~Ephesians 4:31-5:2.

This has been a verse that has been especially impactful to me this year. I stumbled across it early in the semester and was struck by the powerful line and metaphor, “walk in love”. Walking is such a routine part of everyday life, and the fact that we are called to live in love, in such an normal action as walking, is clearly yet subtly conveyed here. This simple command is something I strive to remember and embrace every morning as I take my first steps.