Separation

Exodus 26:1 – 26:37 (commentary)

Chapter 26 focuses on the tabernacle. This portable building was 15’ by 45’ with a wooden framework  at the sides, top and back. Over the top and back of the structure were placed 10 curtains of fine linen, embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet, which served as a large …

Exodus 33:1 – 33:11 (commentary)

God tells Moses that he and his people need to move out and go toward the promised land. He promised to send an angel with them and defeat their enemies but said He would not go with them. Because of their sin of making and worshiping the golden calf he was inclined to destroy th …

Intermarriage with pagans - Ezra 9:1 – 9:5 (commentary)

After Ezra had been in the land for a period of time, he was informed by some of the princes that many were involved in sin. This grievous sin involved not only the people in general but even the priests and Levites who should have been the spiritual leaders (v. 1). This lack of …

Nehemiah Institutes Biblical Separation - Nehemiah 13:23 – 13:31 (commentary)

The final problem that Nehemiah faces was the tendency so common in Israel to ignore the prohibitions against intermarriage with pagan peoples. When he returned to Jerusalem, he found the people again disobeying the Law (vv. 23-24). It was true then as it is today that when the f …

The prophecies of Balaam. - Numbers 23:1 – 23:30 (commentary)

Israel’s greatest temptation was in wanting to be like the other nations, and this is what led to their downfall and captivity. Unfortunately, many in the church today have the same mistaken idea that being like the world is the way to reach the world. Instead of maintaining sepa …

With Dishonor Comes Reproach - Proverbs 18:1 – 18:5 (commentary)

Nothing is more clearly taught in the Scriptures than separation of those who love the truth and those who walk in darkness. Separation from evil includes evil friends, ecclesiastical evil, and evil in business. The Scripture is very plain on this subject (II Corinthians 6: …

Be Holy - II Corinthians 6:11 – 6:18 (commentary)

Paul is saying to his friends in Corinth, that there is nothing holding back on our love for you, but you are holding back on your love for us (vv. 11-12). He goes on to say, “I am asking you to respond as if you were my own children (v. 13). Open your hearts to us!” …