In John 1:19-23, the religious leaders from Jerusalem asked John “Who are youâ€? In today’s passage, we see them asking another question, “Why are you baptizing?†It is evident that this investigation committee was very concerned about all the people John was baptizing (vv. 24-25)…
Some people must have thought that since God’s grace increases “all the more” when sin abounds, then believers ought to sin more so they could experience more grace (v. 1). Paul explains how …
Manasseh was the longest reigning king. He was 12 years old when he took over and he ruled for 55 years (v. 1). His father, Hezekiah was a great king who led his nation back to serving God. However, as soon as Manasseh got opportunity, he undid everything his father had done for the …
Some Bible scholars say there was an interval of two to four years between chapter one and this chapter. It appears that the king begins to wonder as to whether he had done the right thing in being so harsh with Vashti (v. 1). His attendants became afraid that the king would take out on them his …
This passage concerns an interesting event in Hezekiah’s life. This took place before the Assyrian invasion, and it was front-line news. Imagine how the people of Judah must have reacted when they heard their king was “sick unto death” (v. 1) and at the same time the Assyrians were on the …
There is a six-month gap between chapters 6 and 7. Jesus was aware of growing hostility against him. The Jews were seeking to kill him (v. 1). The multitudes who had followed Him before were no longer doing so. The feast of tabernacles was now at hand. Also called the feast of booths, this …
The psalmist gives three pleas for deliverance from suffering (vv. 153-156). (1) Appeal to the Lord’s compassion ?“ Rescue Me (v. 153). (2) Appeal to the Lord’s ability to deliver ?“ Redeem Me (v. 154). Salvation is far from those who refuse to seek God’s Word (v. 155). (3) Appeal to the …
The Law had limitations. It was not intended to save people, but to point out sin and to point people toward Christ. Being ethical, working diligently to help others, and giving to charitable causes are all commendable, but none of these things can save us or make us right with God. The Law which …
This chapter deals with the overthrow of Babylon. Just as prophets, priests and kings were anointed by God to perform His special service, so Cyrus was anointed by God to perform his special service for Israel’s sake. The word “anointed” is the same term used to describe the relationship of Israel’s …
Jesus will have a two-fold ministry (vv. 1-3). In His First Coming, He will minister providing salvation and grace. In His Second Coming, He will provide judgment to the unbelievers and provide a second opportunity to the Jews. All of God’s promises to Israel will be fulfilled to the …